They’re also getting lied to every single day.

Not maliciously. Not intentionally. But the feedback they’re receiving is filtered through confirmation bias, political maneuvering, and people’s natural tendency to tell you what they think you want to hear instead of what you need to know.

Victor Hunt has spent his career solving this exact problem, and what he’s discovered will challenge everything you think you know about understanding your customers, your team, and your business.

The Archaeologist vs. The Psychologist

In this episode of The Systematic Leader, Victor introduces a framework that will fundamentally shift how you approach feedback: the difference between being an archaeologist and being a psychologist.

Most leaders act like psychologists. They come in with hypotheses, looking for specific answers to validate their assumptions. Victor argues we should operate more like archaeologists: carefully uncovering the truth that’s already there, layer by layer, without imposing our preconceptions on what we find.

The implications for your business? Massive.

When you’re making decisions about where to invest resources, which products to develop, or how to improve your operations, the quality of your feedback determines whether you’re building on solid ground or quicksand.

The Systems Behind the Systems

What makes this conversation particularly fascinating is Victor’s origin story. His obsession with systems didn’t come from business school or consulting frameworks. It emerged from childhood experiences with Legos, video games, and coordinating a large, dispersed family.

These early pattern-recognition exercises shaped how he now helps organizations design processes that actually work in the real world, not just in theory.

For service-based business executives, this matters because your competitive advantage isn’t just what you do. It’s how efficiently and effectively your systems allow you to do it. Victor reveals how he thinks about building systems that scale without breaking, and more importantly, how to identify which systems are actually worth your time to optimize.

The Campaign Framework for Executives Who Can’t Afford Distraction

Perhaps the most immediately actionable insight from this conversation is Victor’s approach to managing time and priorities in an era of infinite options and constant distraction.

He’s developed what he calls “campaigns,” focused 7-20 week initiatives with crystal-clear metrics and milestones. This isn’t your typical goal-setting exercise. It’s a complete framework for how to say no to 95% of opportunities so you can say a full-throated yes to the 5% that actually move the needle.

In an age where AI and technology create more possibilities than any human can possibly pursue, the ability to maintain laser focus on what truly matters has become the ultimate competitive advantage.

Why This Conversation Matters Now

If you’re running a service-based business, you’re facing a unique challenge: your systems need to be tight enough to scale, but flexible enough to deliver personalized value to each client. You need feedback mechanisms that tell you the truth, not what’s comfortable. And you need prioritization frameworks that help you navigate the overwhelming array of choices technology now provides.

Victor Hunt has built his career solving exactly these problems. The insights he shares aren’t theoretical. They’re battle-tested systems that have helped organizations cut through noise, eliminate waste, and focus on what actually drives results.

Connect with Victor Hunt 

on LinkedIn

 or visit Zingage to learn more about his work.

Because the difference between businesses that scale smoothly and those that struggle isn’t talent or opportunity. It’s systems.

Most business owners are asking the wrong question about AI. And that wrong question is costing them time, money, and trust. Amos reveals the one thing that separates AI that saves you 10 hours a week from AI that creates expensive messes you have to clean up yourself.

The Foundation Nobody Wants to Build

There's an invisible layer that most service businesses skip entirely before they touch AI. Amos calls it something specific, and once he explains it, you'll realize why every automation you've tried before fell short. It has nothing to do with the tools. It has everything to do with something already sitting inside your business that you've probably never formalized.

Here's a hint: your best employee already has it. They just can't transfer it to anyone else. Yet.

Why Your AI Keeps Acting Like a Bad Intern

Amos drops a comparison during this conversation that stopped me cold. The way most businesses deploy AI is the equivalent of handing a brand new hire their first task with zero training, zero context, and zero understanding of what "good" even looks like. Then getting frustrated when the output is garbage.

He walks through exactly why this happens and what the companies who are actually winning with AI are doing differently. It's not what you'd expect. It's simpler than you think, but almost nobody does it.

The Review Framework That Changes Everything

The most valuable part of this conversation has nothing to do with AI. Amos breaks down a way of thinking about decisions that applies to reviewing employee work, evaluating new tools, and catching problems before they become expensive. It involves three distinct lenses, and most leaders are only using one of them.

If you've ever approved something that later blew up in your face, this framework explains exactly why.

The Line You Should Never Let AI Cross

Amos's team serves 200+ customers with three people. But there are things he will never let AI handle alone. The way he draws that line reveals a leadership principle that applies far beyond technology. It's about designing boundaries that protect what matters most, and he explains exactly how he decides what stays human and what doesn't.

Why "Figure It Out" Is the Most Expensive Thing You Can Say

This same principle applies to your human team, and Amos connects the dots in a way that made me rethink how I delegate. There's a structure he uses for deciding what his people (and his AI) can handle alone versus what needs a second set of eyes. Most leaders get this backwards. They either hold too tight or let go too fast. Amos explains exactly where the line should be, and why getting it wrong is quietly costing you more than you realize.

When he describes what happens when you get this right, you'll understand how a three-person team handles 200+ customers without burning out.

The Question That Will Haunt You After This Episode

By the end of this conversation, Amos lands on something that reframes the entire AI debate. It's not about the technology. It's about something most business owners have been avoiding for years. And until you face it, no tool, no hire, and no system will fix what's actually broken.

If your AI isn't saving you time, the problem isn't the AI. Listen to this episode and find out what it actually is. 

Ready to discover where your systems are creating friction instead of flow? The Systems Workflow Session starts with a 5-minute survey that reveals exactly where you're losing time and money to broken processes.

Preston and I dig into the messy, honest side of problem-solving that most leaders never talk about. Why your first instinct about what's broken is almost always wrong. How asking one overlooked question can change the entire direction of a project. And what Preston learned from a failure that looked like progress until it wasn't.

The Question Most Leaders Forget to Ask

Preston has a simple approach to solving problems that most leaders skip entirely. It has nothing to do with tools, frameworks, or fancy software. It starts with a conversation most people rush through. You'll hear exactly how he uses it and why it changes everything.

A Costly Mistake You'll Want to Avoid

Preston opens up about a project that went sideways. Not because the team was bad or the idea was wrong, but because of one critical step he skipped at the beginning. This story alone is worth the listen if you've ever launched something and wondered why it didn't land the way you expected.

Why Your Pricing Strategy Is Probably Backwards

If you've ever looked at your competitors' prices and thought "we'll just charge a little less," Preston has some words for you. He introduces a research technique most small business owners have never heard of that takes the guesswork out of pricing entirely.

The Habit That Separates Good Operators from Great Ones

Karl and Preston land on a practice that most leaders know they should do but almost nobody actually does consistently. If you build this one habit into your business, everything else starts to improve on its own.

Timestamps

• 0:00 — Introductions and small talk

• 3:46 — Podcast format and goals

• 6:16 — Approach to problem-solving and systems

• 12:15 — Lessons from past mistakes

• 34:15 — Pricing strategy and research

• 41:30 — Recap and next steps

About the Guest

Preston Zeller is an operations and product leader with deep experience in building systems, pricing strategy, and cross-functional problem-solving.

In this episode, Karl sits down with Jessica Lackey, a Harvard and McKinsey-trained strategist, to dissect the quiet crisis facing small and mid-sized service businesses. If you feel like you’ve been building a "Frankenstein" company—stitching together pieces of advice from gurus and competitors that don't quite fit your anatomy—this conversation is the mirror you need to look into.

The Casino Trap

Most leaders are playing a game they didn't realize they signed up for. Jessica, author of Leaving the Casino, argues that service-based businesses often fall into a repetitive cycle of "betting" on the next big tactic without understanding the fundamental architecture of their own success. We explore why adopting a strategy before defining your business’s soul is a recipe for operational exhaustion.

Is your business a nimble boutique or a high-volume engine? If you don't know, your tactics are likely fighting each other.

Beyond the Frankenstein Model

We’ve all seen it: a company with a high-end service heart but a cut-throat, automated sales soul. This internal friction is what Jessica calls the "Frankenstein" effect. It leads to a business that looks functional from the outside but is barely holding together at the seams.

This episode challenges you to stop looking for the "right" answer and start asking the right questions about your foundational values and goals. Before you can scale, you must achieve Business Clarity. We dive into why the most sophisticated AI tools and automated rhythms are completely useless—and often dangerous—if they are solving the wrong problems.

The "Roots to Fruits" Perspective

Forget traditional, cold KPIs for a moment. Jessica introduces a more organic, sustainable way to view your progress. By shifting your focus from just the "fruits" (the revenue and the results) to the "seeds" (your daily activities) and the "roots" (your long-term projects), you can begin to spot "sprouts"—those early signals of growth that most executives miss because they are too busy looking at the bottom line.

Why Systems Must Serve the Human

Systems are often viewed as cages—rigid structures that stifle the "sparkle" of a service-based business. Jessica and Karl flip this narrative. They discuss how to create a "rhythm of business" that actually protects your creativity and allows your team to focus on the human side of care and consulting.

If you are tired of the "administrative gunk" and feel like your business has become a series of manual workarounds and mismatched strategies, it’s time to stop betting and start building.

Are you ready to leave the casino?

You can learn more about Jessica Lackey over at Deeper Foundations. You can check out her book, Leaving the Casino (Amazon link). You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Check out similar episodes here:

• Why the ‘Open Door Policy’ Is Failing With Mark Reich
• Your Story Is the Bridge to Their Trust with Matthew Dicks

Jay Acunzo has built his career creating frameworks that stick, ideas so distinctive they become inseparable from his name. In this conversation, he reveals why most business communication fails to move people and shares the hidden structure behind narratives that transform understanding into action.

If you've ever wondered why some leaders can rally teams and attract ideal clients effortlessly while others struggle to get buy-in, this episode exposes the systematic difference.

The Fatal Flaw in Business Communication

Most leaders are optimizing for the wrong metric entirely.

Jay reveals why the conventional approach to reaching your audience actually weakens your influence—and introduces a counterintuitive principle that makes your message magnetic to the people who matter most.

The question that changes everything: Are you broadcasting or building something deeper?

How to Build Ideas That Become Competitive Advantages

Jay pulls back the curtain on his process for developing intellectual property that competitors can't copy.

This isn't about being first to market. It's about creating frameworks so aligned with your unique perspective that they become your signature—your professional lighthouse that ideal clients naturally navigate toward.

What you'll discover:

• The iterative testing system Jay uses before an idea goes public
• Why the "messy middle" is where your most valuable thinking happens
• The difference between borrowed wisdom and ownable IP

The insight: Your best ideas aren't found—they're systematically developed through a specific refinement process.

The AI Trap Most Leaders Are Falling Into

Here's what nobody's talking about with AI tools: They can make you faster while making you forgettable.

Jay shares his selective framework for when AI enhances your thinking versus when it dilutes the very thing that makes your communication magnetic.

The warning: There's a hidden cost to automation that shows up in your influence, not your efficiency metrics.

The opportunity: A smarter integration approach that amplifies your voice instead of replacing it.

The 6-Step Structure Behind Every Persuasive Narrative

Want to know how master communicators move people from "I understand" to "I must act"?

Jay breaks down the exact framework he uses to construct arguments that don't just inform—they transform. This is the systematic structure behind presentations that get standing ovations, pitches that close deals, and content that converts browsers into believers.

What makes this different: Most people start their narrative in the wrong place. Jay reveals where persuasion actually begins and the specific progression that builds unstoppable momentum toward action.

Fair warning: Once you see this structure, you'll recognize it everywhere—and you'll never communicate the same way again.

Joanna Wiebe has a different approach: treat marketing like an engineering system, not a creative guessing game.

As the founder of Copy Hackers, Joanna has spent years helping businesses build what she calls a "Copy Selling System". A repeatable assembly line that moves prospects from complete strangers to paying customers. No more random tactics. No more copying what worked for someone else's business. Just a structured, measurable process that works for YOUR customers.

The Fatal Flaw in Most Marketing

Here's the mistake almost every small business makes: they skip straight to talking about their product features.

You've got a great service. You know all the bells and whistles. So naturally, you lead with those details, right?

Wrong.

Your prospects aren't ready to hear about your features yet. They don't even know they have a problem you can solve. Or if they do know they have a problem, they're still exploring different types of solutions.

Joanna breaks down the journey every buyer takes through five distinct stages of awareness – and your message needs to match where they are in that journey. Jump ahead too fast, and you lose them.

The Single Question That Changes Everything

Want to know the secret to writing copy that actually resonates? Stop making it up and start listening.

Joanna's team uses a brilliantly simple system: a one-question survey that appears on confirmation pages right after someone takes action.

"What was going on in your life that brought you to [action] today?"

That's it. One question. But the responses? Pure gold.

People tell you their exact pain points, in their own words, at the exact moment they're most optimistic about solving their problem. This isn't feedback from angry customers on their way out. This is insight from engaged prospects who just voted with their wallet.

This voice-of-customer data becomes the foundation for every piece of marketing you create. You're not guessing what matters to your audience. They're telling you directly.

Make Your Solution Unforgettable

Here's a five-minute exercise that could transform your positioning:

Name the specific problem you solve. Not a general category, the exact issue your customers face.

Name the specific mechanism in your service that solves it. What's the unique approach, process, or "secret sauce" that makes your solution work?

Joanna calls these your "Unique Problem Mechanism" and "Unique Solution Mechanism." When you can articulate both clearly, you create a memorable, defensible position in the market.

Think about Lucky Strike's "It's toasted" or TurboTax's "Refund Calculator." These aren't just taglines – they're named mechanisms that explain exactly how the product solves a specific problem.

What's yours?

Why AI Makes This Even More Critical

With ChatGPT and other AI tools flooding the market with generic copy, standing out has never been more important, or more difficult.

AI can write copy. But it can't interview your customers. It can't identify the specific pain points that drive your buyers. It can't build a systematic process that fits your business model.

That's where you come in. The businesses that win in this new landscape won't be the ones with the fanciest AI prompts. They'll be the ones with the strongest systems, the deepest customer insights, and the clearest positioning.

But here's the twist most business leaders miss: your sales team isn't the only one struggling in the dark.

The Celebration Gap That's Killing Your Culture

Picture your last team celebration. Chances are, it was for hitting a sales milestone. Maybe your top salesperson closed a big deal. Maybe you exceeded quarterly revenue targets. The sales team got the spotlight, the applause, the recognition.

Now picture your operations team. Your QA specialists. Your developers. Your fulfillment crew.

When was the last time they got celebrated?

This isn't just about fairness, it's about retention. Banner discovered that operational teams often feel like second-class citizens because their wins don't come with a built-in scoreboard. A salesperson knows exactly when they've won. But when does a QA analyst "win"? When does a developer deserve applause?

The solution: Create specific, measurable celebration triggers for every team. At Banner's company, the QA team celebrates after 15 defect-free website launches. Developers earn recognition when post-launch complaints drop below a certain threshold. When these milestones hit, the entire company stops for an impromptu celebration: lunch, games, genuine recognition.

The message is clear: Excellence matters everywhere, not just in sales.

The Priority Problem Nobody's Talking About

Here's a scenario that plays out in small businesses every single day: Two departments both claim their project is "urgent." Leadership says everything is important. Team members make their own judgment calls. Nothing gets finished well.

Sound familiar?

Banner's solution is brutally simple: a documented, ranked priority list reviewed every Monday in leadership meetings. Not a vague strategic plan, a crystal-clear roadmap where Priority 1 gets 60% of team time, Period.

The genius isn't in having priorities. It's in documenting them so thoroughly that your team never has to guess.

Why Your Annual Values Exercise Is Failing

Most companies spend hours crafting mission statements and core values that sound impressive on the wall but mean nothing on Monday morning. Banner tried that approach. It didn't work.

His breakthrough? Replace everything with one memorable mantra that changes annually.

This year's mantra: "Evolve." Not because it sounds good, but because the company was facing significant changes and needed a North Star that would reduce resistance. The team proposed options. They voted. They owned it.

One word. Constantly reinforced. Actually used in daily decisions.

That's more powerful than ten values nobody remembers.

The AI Integration Nobody's Forcing

Here's what doesn't work: Mandating AI adoption.

Here's what does: Monthly training lunches led by internal AI champions who share success stories. Like the developer who optimized 100 lines of code down to 15 using AI.

Banner uses AI daily for brainstorming, drafting, and iteration. His team adopts it at their own pace. The key? Provide tools and permission, then let success stories spread organically.

The bottom line: Systems aren't about control. They're about clarity. They're about ensuring your operations team gets the same recognition as your sales stars. They're about making sure everyone knows what "winning" looks like, and actually celebrating when it happens.

Because what gets documented gets scaled. What gets measured gets improved. And what gets celebrated gets repeated.

Adam Coelho discovered this truth at one of the lowest points in his career. Facing the prospect of losing his job at Google, he could have spiraled into panic and desperation. Instead, he made a choice that changed everything: he shifted his mindset and began envisioning new possibilities.

The result? He didn't just save his career—he found a role that aligned perfectly with his vision for the future.

Your Brain Is Building Your Future Right Now

Here's something most business leaders don't realize: your thoughts aren't just passive observations about reality. They're actively creating it.

Adam explains the neuroscience behind this phenomenon—how neuroplasticity and the brain's predictive nature mean that the stories we tell ourselves literally shape what we see, what we pursue, and what becomes possible. This isn't feel-good motivation; it's hard science about how our minds work.

Beyond Positive Thinking: Practices That Actually Work

Adam doesn't just talk about mindset—he provides concrete practices that busy executives can implement:

Journaling that goes beyond venting to actively shape your future vision

Strategic conversations where you articulate your vision to others, making it more real

Affirmations grounded in possibility rather than wishful thinking

Visualization that primes your brain to recognize opportunities

Mini-experiments that plant seeds for the future you want without requiring massive commitments

These aren't add-ons for when you have spare time. They're strategic tools that can shift how you approach every challenge in your business.

The Culture System You're Probably Missing

In a fascinating turn, the conversation moves from individual mindset to organizational culture. How do you systematize something as intangible as company values?

The Feedback Loop That Drives Continuous Improvement

One of the most practical parts of our discussion centers on gathering ongoing feedback from clients and participants. Not annual surveys. Not occasional check-ins. Continuous feedback loops that help you improve in real-time.

When Envisioning Meets Action

Here's where many mindset discussions fall apart: they focus on thinking differently but forget about doing differently. Adam is crystal clear on this point—envisioning isn't about hoping things will magically improve. It's about priming your mind to recognize and act on opportunities that align with your vision.

Why This Matters for Service Business Leaders

If you're running a service-based business, you're juggling multiple realities: the business you have today, the business you want to build, and all the friction points between the two. You're managing teams, serving clients, handling operations, and trying to find time to think strategically.

When Adam was facing that career crisis at Google, he didn't just update his resume. He changed his story. He envisioned new possibilities. He took action aligned with that vision. And the result was better than simply keeping his old job—it was finding a role that actually fit where he wanted to go.

Dr. Mikel Daniels, President of We Treat Feet Podiatry, knows this challenge intimately. Managing over 50 employees across multiple locations while still seeing patients, he's discovered what many growing service business owners face: the very growth you've worked so hard to achieve can become your biggest operational headache.

The Feedback Paradox

Here's a puzzle that keeps many healthcare executives up at night: You need patient feedback to improve your service, but the patients who respond to surveys are rarely the ones you need to hear from. Dr. Daniels shares the frustrating reality of single-digit response rates and the peculiar challenge of anonymous online reviews that offer criticism without giving you any way to make things right.

Even more challenging? When patients do voice concerns in the moment, addressing them requires a delicate dance between medical care and customer service. Dr. Daniels reveals how his team tries to catch issues before they become expensive problems and why this proactive approach doesn't always work as planned.

The Geography Problem

Try getting 50+ employees together for a meeting when they're spread across multiple locations. Now imagine trying to maintain consistent quality, culture, and communication when you can't simply walk down the hall to check in with your team.

This is where most growing service businesses hit a wall. Dr. Daniels discusses how he's built his management structure around this challenge, relying heavily on his VP of Operations to be his eyes and ears. But even with great people in place, the question remains: How do you scale yourself without burning out?

The CEO Who Can't Stop Being a Doctor

Perhaps the most relatable struggle Dr. Daniels shares is one that transcends healthcare: the founder who can't let go. As both a practicing physician and the CEO/owner, he finds himself pulled in two directions constantly. Should he see patients or handle the financial projections? Should he focus on clinical excellence or business operations?

The answer, he's learning, isn't either/or, it's about creating systems that allow you to do both without working yourself into the ground. But how do you make that transition when your expertise (and let's be honest, your passion) lies in the clinical work, not the spreadsheets?

The Distance Dilemma

Here's a leadership challenge that doesn't get talked about enough: How do you maintain appropriate boundaries with employees who are also professional colleagues? Dr. Daniels shares his thoughtful approach to interacting with his physician staff, knowing when to be the friendly colleague and when to be the employer, making tough business decisions.

This balance becomes even more critical as your business grows. The informal communication style that worked with five employees creates chaos with fifty. The open-door policy that made you approachable becomes unsustainable when everyone needs "just five minutes."

Technology as the Great Enabler

In a fascinating discussion about AI and automation, Dr. Daniels explores how technology could transform his practice's administrative burden. From streamlining documentation to improving patient communication, the possibilities are tantalizing, but so is the challenge of implementation.

The real question isn't whether these tools can help, but how to integrate them without disrupting the human-centered care that makes a medical practice successful in the first place.

That's the core insight from my recent conversation with O'Brien McMahon on The People Business Podcast. Whether you realize it or not, the way you run your business is a system, it might just be a chaotic one.

O'Brien and I dove deep into what systems thinking actually means and why it's the difference between businesses that scale smoothly and those that stay stuck fighting fires.

The Truth About Systems

Here's what most people miss: you already have systems. The question isn't whether you have them—it's whether they're designed to get you the results you want.

As Charlie Munger said, "Show me the incentives, and I'll show you the results." Your systems create your incentives, and your incentives drive your outcomes. If you're not getting the growth you want or you're watching opportunities slip through the cracks, your systems are telling you exactly what's wrong.

The creative who says "the universe tells me what to do" still has a system. Maybe they need a walk before designing. Maybe they journal before going on stage. It's all systems supporting what we're trying to accomplish.

Start Where You're Leaking

O'Brien shared a brilliant framework I want you to steal: don't rebuild everything from scratch. Instead, ask yourself: Where am I leaking right now?

Are you leaking sales opportunities? Energy? Attention to detail? Anxiety?

Find your biggest leak, fix that one thing, work it until it becomes habit, then move to the next leak. This iterative approach beats the comprehensive overhaul every single time.

The Consistency Advantage

Leaders who are clear on their vision and how they execute get consistent results. The chaotic ones? Sometimes they win big, sometimes they don't. The difference comes down to consistency.

Your systems should connect your leading indicators to your lagging indicators. Why aren't you growing your email list? Why are customers dropping off at checkout? Your systems will tell you if you've designed them to measure what matters.

My Systems Origin Story

I learned this from my dad, a German electrician who ran his own business. Everything was systematic—how he set up his day, executed his work, and followed through on billing. I saw it all working alongside him.

That gift of systematic thinking is why I named the podcast Systematic Leader. The leaders who understand their systems and execute consistently are the ones who transform their businesses from reactive chaos to proactive growth engines.

The Annual Systems Check-Up

Here's your homework: step back at least once a year and map how all your systems connect. You'll find systems that aren't working as well as they used to, broken processes, and opportunities to double down on what's working.

This exercise shows your team you're not here to do the minimum, you're committed to improving every single day. That standard-setting matters more than you think.

Start Where It's Uncomfortable

O'Brien nailed it at the end of our conversation: "It's probably gonna be most effective in the area you least wanna do it."

The thing you're avoiding? That's probably your biggest opportunity. Don't try to jog eight miles on day one. Build a small system that gets you going for five minutes. Make it routine. Watch the results compound.

When you see customers coming back more and referring more because of one small systematic change, that's when you realize: this actually works.

Your Next Step

Pick one area where you're leaking: time, money, opportunities, or energy. Design one small system to plug that leak. Work it for 30 days.

That's how you transform from firefighter to growth engine.

Want help identifying where your systems are breaking down? Take the 5-minute Customer Experience Assessment at systematicleader.co and let's find those hidden leaks before they become expensive problems.

Thanks you O'Brien McMahon

In this episode of Systematic Leader, Christy reveals the counterintuitive system that helped her 30-person agency balance AI efficiency with genuine human connection—and why she believes the "soft skills" everyone dismissed are about to become your most valuable business asset.

What You'll Discover:

The Culture System That Actually Works

• How WG Content uses four core values (kindness, empowerment, curiosity, fun) as decision-making filters, not just wall decorations
• Why monthly employee recognition isn't about being nice. It's about reinforcing the behaviors that drive results
• The exact process they use to handle difficult client conversations without losing relationships

AI Integration Without Losing Your Soul

• Why tailoring AI's tone for each client is just the beginning
• The hidden biases in AI content that are quietly destroying trust with your customers
• Where AI consistently fails (and why that failure is actually your competitive advantage)

The "Better Quotient" Framework

• Christy's 3-step system for making better leadership decisions in high-pressure moments:
• Real example: How she transformed her reactive leadership style using this framework

The Skills That Will Matter in 2030

• Why empathy, vulnerability, and emotional intelligence are becoming MORE valuable as AI gets better
• How to systematize "soft skills" development in your organization
• The leadership mentor model that helped Christy become a better follower AND a better leader

The Bottom Line:

As AI handles more of the tactical work, the businesses that win will be the ones that systematize human connection. This episode gives you the exact frameworks to do both, leverage AI for efficiency while building deeper relationships with clients and team members.

Perfect for: Service business owners who want to integrate AI without losing the personal touch that made them successful in the first place.

Want to build magnetic systems that help you fix issues before they become expensive problems? Book a Systems Jam Session at SystematicLeader.com

Most leaders would panic. Ryan Ford built a system.

In this episode, Ryan breaks down exactly how he transformed an underperforming team into a high-functioning operation—not through motivation speeches, but through structured systems, clear metrics, and a decision-making framework that stopped making him the bottleneck.

The Reality of Inheriting a Broken Team

Ryan walked into 35 people with low morale, unclear expectations, and no real processes. The kind of situation where everyone's busy but nothing meaningful gets done.

His first move wasn't motivation—it was understanding. Before changing anything, he invested time learning the team dynamics and figuring out where the breakdowns actually happened.

The uncomfortable truth: Sometimes the people aren't the problem. The lack of clear expectations and accountability systems is.

The LEAF Decision Framework: Stop Being the Bottleneck

Here's where most leaders kill their own productivity: they become the decision-maker for everything.

LEAF Decisions - Low-impact decisions that don't require leadership approval. If it's a LEAF decision, the team makes the call and keeps moving.

How to implement it: Create a decision tree with your team. Map out what requires your input and what doesn't. Give them permission to make LEAF decisions without asking. Then get out of their way.

The Turnaround System: Metrics, Accountability, and Cadence

Ryan didn't turn around his team with a single meeting. He built a system with three core elements:

Clear Metrics: Everyone knew what "good" looked like. No more subjective performance reviews.

Accountability Structure: Regular check-ins where progress was reviewed and blockers were identified. Not micromanagement—strategic support.

Rapid Adjustment: When the plan wasn't working, they changed it. No ego about sticking to a failing strategy.

Real example: Ryan led a critical product launch with tight timelines. He established daily check-ins, tracked progress against milestones, and adjusted when reality didn't match the plan. The product launched successfully because the system caught problems early.

From Individual Contributor to System Builder

The hardest transition for new leaders: realizing your job is no longer about what you personally accomplish. It's about what your team accomplishes through the systems you build.

What Ryan learned to love about leadership:

• Setting people up for success
• Building cultures where high performance becomes normal
• Creating teams that function even when he's not in the room

Why Systems Beat Heroics Every Time

Heroic leaders jump in and save the day. They make all the critical decisions. And they become the ceiling on their team's performance.

System-building leaders create frameworks that allow their teams to solve problems without them. They empower LEAF decisions and reserve their energy for choices that actually need their expertise.

The result: Teams that perform consistently, not just when the leader is present.

The teams that win aren't the ones with superhero leaders. They're the ones with systems that turn ordinary people into high performers.

You can learn more about Ryan Ford over on LinkedIn.

Want help designing systems that make your business more effective? Let’s talk about creating a customer experience that catches problems early and turns your team into problem solvers. You can join the next Customer Experience Zoom Workshop to find out how to improve your customer experience and get more referrals.

Sound familiar?

This week's guest, Ryan Musselman, cracked the code on something most service business owners struggle with—creating systems that scale your expertise without making everything feel automated and soulless.

The Custom GPT Framework That Saves 15+ Hours Per Week

Ryan didn't just throw ChatGPT at his content problem. He built an interconnected ecosystem of custom GPTs that generate stories, case studies, and sales copy that actually sounds human. Here's what makes his approach different: each GPT knows exactly what it's supposed to do, how it should sound, and what outcomes to deliver.

The result? Content that scales without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Why Your AI Content Sounds Like a Robot (And How to Fix It)

Most business owners try AI once, hate the generic output, and give up. Ryan shares his process for identifying the telltale phrases that scream "this was written by AI" and systematically eliminating them from his system.

This isn't a one-time setup—it's a continuous improvement loop that gets better with each iteration. Sound like someone's approach you know?

The Onboarding System That Catches Problems Before They're Expensive

Here's where it gets really interesting for service businesses: Ryan built a centralized feedback system that gathers client input from day one. No more wondering if your onboarding process has friction points. No more clients silently struggling with parts of your program.

Instead, you get immediate visibility into what's working and what needs adjustment—before small issues become big problems that cost you clients.

What Actually Matters When You're Building a Business

In a refreshingly honest moment, Ryan pulls back the curtain on his personal systems for maintaining perspective. Daily exercise. Journaling. Prayer. These aren't just nice-to-haves—they're the foundation that keeps him from getting lost in the weeds of running a 7-figure coaching business.

Because here's the truth: the best systems in the world won't matter if you burn out trying to implement them.

The Most Valuable Insight

There's no single "right way" to grow a service business. Ryan's systems work brilliantly for him, but the real lesson isn't about copying his exact approach. It's about finding the systems and processes that align with your personality and strengths.

Some coaches thrive on intimate, high-touch relationships with a small group of clients. Others excel at scaling through group programs and automation. Both can build highly successful businesses—they just require different systems.

Why This Matters for Your Business

If you're running a service-based business and feel stuck at your current revenue ceiling, chances are it's not a strategy problem. It's a systems problem.

Ryan's approach shows you how to:

• Leverage AI without losing the human touch that makes your business special
• Build feedback loops that help you improve continuously
• Create operational systems that free up your time instead of consuming it
• Stay grounded in what actually matters while scaling

This episode is packed with practical, implementable ideas you can test in your business this week. No fluff. No theory. Just real systems from someone who's already figured out what works at scale.

Listen now to discover how to build magnetic systems that help your business grow without requiring you to clone yourself.Want help designing systems that make your business more effective? Let's talk about creating feedback loops that catch problems early and turn your team into problem solvers.Learn more about working together.

Dan, an AI systems expert who works with founders who refuse to blend in, sat down with us to flip the AI conversation on its head. His background in ministry and psychology gives him a unique lens on technology—one that puts human understanding first and automation second.

The Hidden Gold Mine in Your Customer Conversations

Here's what keeps most service business owners up at night: They know their customers are telling them valuable things, but there's simply not enough time to capture and act on all those insights.

Dan shares how AI can analyze your customer interview transcripts and surface patterns you'd never catch manually—the repeated pain points, the subtle language your customers actually use, the themes that connect seemingly unrelated conversations.

This isn't about replacing human judgment. It's about augmenting it so you can actually use all that customer wisdom you're currently leaving on the table.

Your AI Project Manager (That Never Takes a Day Off)

Forget the hype about AI replacing workers. Dan reveals how he uses AI as a personal project manager to stay organized, track priorities, and document daily wins—essentially creating a second brain that remembers everything you'd otherwise forget in the chaos of running a business.

The key? Maintaining control. Dan walks through his process for continuously refining AI systems through "meta-prompting"—having the AI itself suggest improvements to how it serves you. It's like having an assistant who proactively figures out how to be more helpful.

Real Results: The Valuation Firm Case Study

Theory is nice, but results matter. Dan shares how he helped a valuation company transform their data extraction process from legal documents. The result? Dramatically increased team capacity without hiring.

But here's what makes this different from typical automation stories: The AI handled the tedious extraction work so the humans could focus on the high-value analysis and client relationships. The business became more human-centered by letting AI handle the robotic parts.

The Bottom Line for Service Business Leaders

If you're running a service business, you're sitting on mountains of customer insights and drowning in administrative tasks. Dan's approach shows how AI can help you:

• Capture and act on customer feedback you're currently missing
• Stay organized and strategic instead of constantly reactive
• Free your team to do the work only humans can do
• Scale your capacity without sacrificing the personal touch that makes you valuable

The businesses that will win with AI aren't the ones that use it to remove humans from the equation. They're the ones who use it to make their teams more effective at understanding and serving customers.

Want to explore how AI could work specifically in your service business? The conversation is just getting started.

This episode is essential listening for any service business owner who's drowning in data, struggling to scale, or wondering how to use AI without losing the human touch that built their business.

In this episode, Dave shares his battle-tested approach to hiring leaders who bring proven systems from larger operations—without the disconnect that kills profitability. If you've ever wondered how to scale past $10M, $20M, or beyond without chaos, this conversation is your roadmap.

The "Descending Ladder" Hiring Strategy That Changes Everything

Dave's counterintuitive approach: hire leaders from companies roughly double your size. Not too small (they won't bring new systems), not too large (they'll lose touch with the hands-on work that drives profit).

The sweet spot: If you're running a $20M service business, target leaders from $40M firms. They've seen the systems that work at scale, but they're still close enough to remember the grind.

The danger zone: Hiring someone from a $100M operation for your $20M business. They'll design systems for problems you don't have yet—and profitability vanishes while they build their empire.

"Throw Them in the Pool" - The Onboarding System That Reveals Everything

Forget the standard two-week onboarding playbook. Dave's approach tests what really matters: can they swim when unexpected challenges hit?

Phase 1 - The Pool

Phase 2 - The Brick

Phase 3 - Juggling

The Three I's: Building a Culture That Repels the Wrong People

Dave's non-negotiable cultural framework filters out mismatches before they become expensive problems:

Integrity - Takes a full year to truly assess. You can't shortcut this one.

Intensity - Either they match your pace or they don't. Create an environment where low intensity feels awkward.

Intentionality - Can be taught, but natural focus is gold. Look for people who think three steps ahead.

Systems That Actually Improve (Instead of Just Existing)

The Annual Rewrite: Every Standard Operating Procedure gets completely rewritten yearly. Yes, completely. This forces evolution and prevents "we've always done it this way" from killing your growth.

The Weekly Rhythm

Feedback loops that matter

The People-First AI Strategy for Service Businesses

Dave's refreshingly practical take on AI: "Old-world values with today's most robust technology."

What they're actually using AI for:

• Writing and presentation creation
• Back-office automation (invoicing, payroll)
• Initial candidate screening

What they're NOT doing:

• Chasing bleeding-edge tools that aren't proven
• Replacing the human connection in recruiting
• Top-down AI mandates

Why This Matters for Your Service Business

If you're stuck between $5M and $20M, you're probably missing one thing: leaders who've already solved the problems you're facing. The systems you need exist—you just need someone who's lived them.

Dave's approach removes the guesswork. Hire people who've already built what you're trying to build. Test them hard and fast. Build a culture so strong that mediocrity feels uncomfortable.

Most importantly: don't let your systems gather dust. Annual rewrites might sound exhausting, but it's the difference between a business that scales and one that plateaus.

Want to transform your hiring and onboarding systems? These aren't just recruitment tactics—they're the foundation for scalable growth. The question isn't whether you can afford to implement these systems. It's whether you can afford not to.

This isn't another theoretical discussion about AI. This is a real-world case study of how one entrepreneur went from chaos to control using systems designed specifically for his brain.

The Entrepreneur's Paradox

We dive into why the skills that make you great at starting businesses often sabotage your growth. Nick shares the hidden cost of entrepreneurial ADHD and why structure isn't actually your enemy. You'll hear his journey from government work to founding two security companies, and the moment he realized something had to change.

When Your Brain Works Against Your Business

Nick opens up about the turning point when he realized his biggest bottleneck was himself. We explore why traditional productivity systems fail for neurodivergent entrepreneurs and uncover the surprising connection between vision, values, and staying organized. This conversation will resonate with anyone who's ever felt like their own mind was working against their business goals.

Building Your AI Chief of Staff

Jennifer Spielman reveals the "Lawless Longhouse" system in detail. You'll discover how AI now manages Nick's calendar, coordinates his teams, and bridges his personal and professional life. Jennifer walks through the specific automation that saved Nick hundreds of hours and explains why this isn't about replacing humans—it's about freeing them to do what they do best. The real results speak for themselves: Nick's productivity transformed even during a lawsuit.

The System Behind the System

We tackle the reality that your best system today will need updating tomorrow. The conversation explores how to build review processes that actually stick and shares the framework for iterating on what works while ditching what doesn't. This is where the rubber meets the road for sustainable business growth.

The Leadership Lesson That Changes Everything

Nick shares the mentorship that shaped his entire approach to leadership. He reflects on what Amy Whiteman taught him about authentic leadership and why empowering others is the ultimate scaling strategy. Most importantly, he reveals how to lead effectively when everything feels like it's falling apart.

Key Takeaways for Your Business

Your systems should fit YOUR brain, not the other way around. Nick's ADHD isn't a weakness to overcome—it's a factor to design around. This fundamental shift in thinking can transform how you approach building processes in your business.

AI isn't the future—it's the present. The Lawless Longhouse isn't science fiction. It's working right now, coordinating schedules, managing tasks, and keeping a multi-company CEO on track. This episode demonstrates practical applications you can start implementing today.

Structure doesn't kill creativity; it protects it. The more automated and systematic Nick's routine tasks became, the more mental space he had for strategic thinking. This is the paradox that busy business owners need to understand.

Systems are never "done." Even the best processes need regular review and iteration—especially when your business faces unexpected challenges. Nick's experience with the lawsuit proves that adaptable systems are resilient systems.

The best leaders make themselves less necessary. Nick's ultimate goal demonstrates the power of magnetic systems: build processes so good that your businesses can thrive without you constantly intervening.

In this episode, Alen reveals how he's using Lean methodology to standardize processes across one of the nation's leading healthcare systems—without turning patients into numbers or doctors into robots.

What You'll Learn:

The Lean Healthcare Paradox How Cedars-Sinai Medical Network reduces waste and inefficiency while maintaining deeply personalized patient care. Alen breaks down the systems that allow standardization and customization to coexist.

The Resistance Turnaround Alen shares a powerful story about implementing a change that employees initially hated. Instead of pushing harder, he did something counterintuitive—he listened. What happened next transformed not just the process, but the culture around change itself.

The CEO Who Changed Everything Learn about the former CEO who mentored Alen and demonstrated that even in massive organizations, leaders can make genuine personal connections. This isn't soft skills fluff—it's a systematic approach to building trust at scale.

Listening Rounds That Actually Work Alen reveals his system for staying connected with frontline employees across dozens of clinics. He doesn't just visit randomly—he tracks connections to ensure every employee feels seen. This simple metric has profound implications for engagement and retention.

When Feedback Changes the Plan Most leaders say they're open to feedback, but few have systems to actually capture and act on it. Alen walks through a specific example where frontline staff feedback completely changed his implementation approach—and why that made the system stronger.

Perfect For:

• Healthcare leaders struggling to balance efficiency with patient care
• COOs and operations executives implementing change in large organizations
• Business owners who want to bring Lean principles to service-based businesses
• Leaders who've faced employee resistance and need a better approach
• Anyone building systems in industries where "the human element" can't be sacrificed

Key Quotes:

"The frontline staff knew something we didn't. Our job wasn't to convince them we were right. Our job was to listen until we understood what they were seeing."

"You can't mandate connection. But you can build systems that make it more likely to happen—and measure whether it's actually happening."

Why This Episode Matters:

If you've ever thought "systems and processes will make us too rigid" or "our industry is different—we can't standardize," this conversation will challenge everything you believe about the relationship between efficiency and humanity.

Alen proves that the right systems don't constrain care—they create the space for it to flourish.

Listen now to discover how one of America's leading medical networks eliminates waste, engages employees, and delivers world-class care—all at the same time.

Episode Length: 45 minutes

Guest: Alen Voskanian, COO of Cedars-Sinai Medical Network

Host: Karl Staib, Systematic Leader

Want to build systems that improve the customer experience without losing your company's soul? This is the episode you've been waiting for.

Learn more about Alen Voskanian over at Reclaiming the Joy of Medicine. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. You can check out his book (link to Amazon).

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

The Curiosity Framework That Transforms Teams

Sam drops a game-changer: curiosity as a core business value. But this isn't just feel-good leadership fluff. She shares the specific techniques she uses to turn her team into problem-solvers who aren't afraid to experiment and fail forward.

The Voice-of-Customer System That Drives Real Results

Here's where Sam gets tactical. She reveals her quarterly feedback system that goes beyond basic surveys. This isn't about collecting compliments – it's about gathering data that actually changes how she builds products and crafts messaging.

The twist? Sometimes the data forces her to pivot away from her own assumptions. Sam shares how customer feedback helped her make decisions that felt counterintuitive but drove significant growth.

AI Integration Without Losing Your Soul

Sam's approach to AI is refreshingly strategic. She's not jumping on every shiny new tool – instead, she's thoughtfully integrating AI for specific tasks while fiercely protecting what makes her business unique: her voice and perspective.

She reveals exactly where she uses AI (social media, email reminders) and where she draws hard lines (core content creation).

Why This Matters for Your Business

If you're a small business owner struggling with:

• Team members who wait for direction instead of taking initiative
• Making decisions based on gut feeling rather than solid data
• Wondering how to use AI without losing what makes you different
• Scaling while maintaining quality and authenticity

...then Sam's systems provide a blueprint you can actually implement.

The Bottom Line

Sam proves that systematic curiosity and strategic feedback loops aren't just nice-to-haves. They're the engines that power sustainable growth. Her approach shows how the right systems can help you scale without sacrificing the human elements that make your business special.

Ready to build magnetic systems that make your team more proactive and your customers more engaged? This conversation gives you the roadmap.

Want to design feedback systems that actually drive growth in your business? Let's talk about how to turn your people into problem-solvers who help you scale smarter, not harder.

Learn more about Sam Vander Wielen over at her website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Related podcasts and articles:

• The Hidden Force Behind 95% of Your Team’s Decisions with Mark C. Crowley
• The Power of Systems Thinking in Your Company

What You'll Discover:

The "Green, Yellow, Red" Dashboard Secret

• Why tracking daily activities beats obsessing over outcomes every time
• The simple 3-color system that keeps founders accountable without micromanaging
• How this dashboard prevents expensive problems before they crash your business

The "Old Bold Guys" Principle for Smart Risk-Taking

• Why most entrepreneurs fail at balancing bold moves with smart caution
• The skiing lesson that could save you from catastrophic business decisions
• How to assess risk-reward like a seasoned pro (without losing your entrepreneurial edge)

The PLOD Method: Turn Your Team Into Problem-Solving Machines

• The 4-letter framework that transforms how you receive feedback
• Why most leaders think they're listening but are actually just waiting to talk
• How curiosity becomes your secret weapon for uncovering hidden friction points

AI as Your Personal Business Coach

• How Dr. Powell uses ChatGPT for brutal self-reflection (and why it works better than traditional coaching)
• The "prompt engineering" technique that exposes your biggest blind spots
• Why technology amplifies human systems instead of replacing them

From Family Dreams to Business Reality

• Real talk about supporting ambitious family goals while building sustainable businesses
• How personal systems mirror business systems (and why both must work together)

The Hidden Gem:

Dr. Powell reveals why founders struggle with talent retention and compensation alignment - plus the systematic approach that fixes both problems simultaneously.

Bottom Line: This isn't another "work harder" interview. It's a blueprint for working smarter through magnetic systems that make your business run like clockwork.

Ready to stop throwing away time and money on broken processes? This conversation shows you exactly how to build the feedback loops that fuel sustainable growth.

Listen now and discover the systematic approach that transforms chaotic operations into profit-generating machines.

You can learn more about Thomas J. Powell at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

Check out similar episodes here:

• Why the ‘Open Door Policy’ Is Failing With Mark Reich
• Your Story Is the Bridge to Their Trust with Matthew Dicks

Why Your Communication Training Is Making You Worse (Not Better) 

Most executives invest in presentation skills, public speaking courses, and communication workshops—only to sound more robotic than before. Tristan reveals why traditional training focuses on the wrong things entirely. Instead of fixing external symptoms, there's a deeper root cause that transforms how you show up in client meetings, team presentations, and high-stakes conversations.

The Authenticity Paradox: How "Being Yourself" Became Bad Business Advice 

Everyone tells you to "be authentic," but what does that actually mean when you're presenting to a potential million-dollar client? Tristan breaks down the difference between authentic communication and performative communication—and why most business leaders are unknowingly choosing the path that repels rather than attracts.

From World Championship Finalist to Business System: The Feedback Loop That Changes Everything 

Tristan didn't just reach the World Championship of Public Speaking by accident. He cracked the code on constant iteration and feedback that most people are too uncomfortable to pursue. This same methodology became the foundation of Ultraspeaking's approach—and it's why their clients see dramatic improvements in weeks, not years.

The Short Exercise Revolution: Why 2-Minute Drills Beat 2-Hour Workshops 

Forget lengthy training programs and weekend seminars. Tristan's breakthrough discovery involves short, feedback-driven speaking exercises that build fundamental skills faster than traditional methods. The secret isn't in the length of practice—it's in the intensity and frequency of specific types of challenges.

The Accordion Method: How to Never Use Notes Again (Without Memorizing Anything) 

What if you could deliver compelling presentations without slides, notes, or memorization? Tristan's "accordion method" involves a counterintuitive approach of progressively shortening and lengthening your speaking time. This forces something most business leaders never achieve: true clarity of thought and complete internalization of your message.

Ready to discover why the best communicators in business aren't naturally gifted—they just know different systems? This conversation reveals the methodology behind authentic, powerful communication that drives real business results.

Learn more about Tristan de Montebello over at Ultra Speaking. You can get the Ultra Speaking Playbook to build your speaking skills today. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

While most service business leaders get trapped in endless planning and process refinement, Jacqueline Basulto has built SeedX into a powerhouse using her "incomplete circle" system that embraces imperfection and constant iteration. From turning junior employees into strategic thinkers who challenge leadership decisions, to building a culture of radical honesty that accelerates growth without destroying relationships, Jacqueline reveals why "good enough" execution consistently outperforms perfect planning. This conversation exposes the counterintuitive leadership philosophy that transforms one-time clients into long-term strategic partnerships—and why getting it wrong in the right way might be the fastest path to getting it right.

The Incomplete Circle System: Why Perfection Is Killing Your Progress 

Forget everything you've been told about excellence. Jacqueline reveals her counterintuitive "incomplete circle" leadership approach that's driving explosive growth at SeedX. While competitors get stuck perfecting their processes, her team moves fast, learns faster, and leaves everyone else behind. The secret isn't in getting it right—it's in getting it wrong in the right way.

How to Turn Junior Employees Into Strategic Powerhouses 

What if your newest hire could spot the flaw in your biggest strategy? Jacqueline has cracked the code on fostering critical thinking at every level of her organization. Her approach transforms order-takers into engaged strategic contributors who actively challenge decisions and drive improvements. The result? A team that thinks like owners, not employees.

Radical Honesty: The Feedback Culture That Most Leaders Are Too Scared to Build 

SeedX's culture of radical honesty sounds brutal—but it's actually what creates unshakeable accountability and continuous improvement. Jacqueline breaks down how leaders and team members provide direct feedback to each other without destroying relationships or morale. This isn't about being harsh; it's about being honest in a way that accelerates growth.

The Client Relationship Strategy That Eliminates One-Hit Wonders 

Tired of constantly hunting for new clients? Jacqueline's iterative, collaborative approach transforms SeedX from a campaign executor into a long-term strategic partner. Instead of delivering projects, they deliver outcomes. Instead of one-time engagements, they build relationships that compound over years. The shift in mindset changes everything.

The Co-Founder Dynamic That Shapes Billion-Dollar Thinking 

Behind every great leader is usually another great leader. Jacqueline credits her co-founder and husband Justin as the thought partner who helped shape SeedX's revolutionary approach. She also reveals how she studies historical leaders' daily habits and decision-making processes to continuously evolve her own leadership style.

Ready to discover why "imperfect" execution beats perfect planning every time? This conversation reveals the leadership philosophy that's transforming how service businesses compete and win.

Learn more about Jacqueline Basulto over at Seedx. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

The Feedback System That Destroys Careers (And What Smart Leaders Do Instead) Austin witnessed a marketing agency's feedback culture that publicly humiliated employees—and it completely changed how he thinks about accountability. Discover why traditional performance management systems backfire in small service businesses and the empathy-driven approach that actually drives results.

Why Documenting Your Values Isn't Enough (The Missing Piece Most Executives Ignore) You've spent time crafting your company values, but are they actually shaping your business culture? Austin reveals how core values like "kindness" and "improvement" become powerful business systems that attract the right people and repel the wrong ones. The secret isn't in writing them down—it's in this specific implementation strategy.

The 5-Minute CEO Habit That Outperforms Most Strategic Planning Sessions While most executives default to checking their phones between meetings, Austin uses these micro-moments differently. His 5-minute "thinking bursts" throughout the day have become his secret weapon for solving complex problems and driving business progress. This isn't meditation—it's strategic thinking on steroids.

The "Levers" Framework: Why Some Service Businesses Scale While Others Stagnate Austin breaks down what he calls business "levers"—the key drivers that separate growing service companies from those stuck in the same revenue range year after year. These aren't the obvious metrics everyone tracks, but the hidden growth multipliers that transform how your business operates.

From Parenting Wisdom to Business Strategy: The Surprising Leadership Lessons How does reflecting on "these are the good old days" change the way you lead your team? Austin and Karl explore the unexpected parallels between parenting challenges and executive decision-making, revealing insights about presence, future planning, and creating environments where people thrive.

Ready to discover the systems and strategies that separate successful service business leaders from the rest? This conversation reveals the counterintuitive approaches that actually work.

Learn more about Austin Church over at Freelance Cake. You can also connect with him on Linkedin.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

The AI Authenticity Trap (And How to Avoid It)

Most leaders are using AI wrong. Pat reveals why relying on ChatGPT to generate content is killing the heart of your communication—and the simple system he uses to harness AI power while keeping human authenticity at the center.

The key insight: AI should amplify your thinking, not replace it. Pat shares his framework for maintaining the human element that builds real connection with teams and clients.

The Ultra-Marathon Secret That Revolutionized Leadership Development

Why Pat's friend analyzes the physics of every footstrike during 100-mile races—and how this "micro-mastery" approach transformed Pat's leadership skills faster than any traditional training.

The breakthrough: Instead of trying to improve everything at once, Pat focused on one specific skill (hand gestures in public speaking) and mastered it systematically. The results shocked him.

This changes everything about professional development. Stop spreading your improvement efforts thin and start going deep on one skill at a time.

The Complexity Killer: Why Your Best Systems Are Probably Too Complicated

Pat's brutal truth: Most business systems fail because they become too complex and lose their core purpose. He reveals the compartmentalization strategy that keeps his team laser-focused on what matters most.

The framework: How to shield your team from distractions while maintaining clear priorities. This isn't about being rigid—it's about creating space for your people to do their best work.

Reality check: If your team can't explain your system in 30 seconds, it's too complicated.

The $50 Recognition System That Transformed Team Culture

Forget expensive team-building retreats. Pat's team uses a simple tool called Bonusly to recognize great work—and the results have been transformational for morale and retention.

But here's what most leaders miss: Recognition without understanding individual motivations is worthless. Pat shares his system for discovering what actually drives each team member.

The secret sauce: One-on-ones, retros, and creating psychological safety where feedback flows naturally. Pat reveals the specific questions that unlock honest communication.

The 4-Day Workweek Experiment That Increased Productivity

While most companies fear productivity loss, Pat's team tried something bold: a 4-day workweek positioned as an experiment, not a permanent change.

The results: Higher productivity, better morale, zero negative impact on output.

The methodology: How they gathered feedback, set clear success metrics, and made data-driven decisions about the future of work. This isn't about working less—it's about working systematically.

The game-changer: Positioning major changes as experiments removes resistance and creates buy-in.

The Bottom Line

Pat's success isn't about having all the answers—it's about building systems that help teams think better, work smarter, and stay focused on what matters most. Whether it's integrating AI authentically, mastering skills systematically, or experimenting with bold changes like 4-day workweeks, the key is always the same: design, test, measure, improve.

The question: Which of Pat's systems could transform your team's performance? Start with one, master it, then scale.

Want to build systematic approaches to leadership like Pat? Connect with Karl for a Systems Jam Session and discover which system could have the biggest impact on your team.

Most small service business owners never see it coming—the well-intentioned leadership behaviors that actually repel top talent, stifle innovation, and keep you trapped in the same revenue range year after year. Bobby, a battle-tested business leader who's seen these patterns destroy promising companies, recently revealed five counterintuitive strategies that separate thriving service businesses from those stuck in survival mode. What he shared will challenge everything you think you know about effective leadership.

1. Your "Helpful" Management Style is Secretly Killing Your Business

Think you're being supportive by staying on top of every detail? Bobby reveals a shocking truth that most small business owners don't realize about their management style.

2. The 3-Letter Framework That Transforms Problem Employees

That "difficult" employee who's driving you crazy? Bobby's "ACE" framework reveals they might just need to be heard differently.

3. The 10-Minute Daily Habit That Prevents Small Business Burnout

Forget expensive coaches and complicated wellness systems. Bobby shares his personal practice that keeps him mentally sharp and emotionally resilient—even during the most brutal client situations.

4. How to Stop Losing New Hires in Their First 30 Days

New employee disappeared after two weeks? Bobby's onboarding blueprint addresses the real reason new hires quit—and it's not what most business owners think.

5. Stop Training the Same Way Twice: The Crowdsourcing Secret

Here's a question that will change how you approach training: Why are you recreating systems when your best employees already have the answers?

What's Your Biggest Leadership Challenge?

Bobby's insights challenge conventional wisdom about small business leadership. Whether you're struggling with micromanagement tendencies, difficult team dynamics, or high turnover, his practical strategies offer a fresh perspective on age-old problems.

Ready to transform your leadership approach? Listen to the full podcast episode to get the complete frameworks and implementation strategies Bobby uses to build thriving service businesses.

You can get the The guide to integrating AI into your business (and other systems guides) to help you build systems that fit you and your team’s values.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

The Hidden Crisis: What happens when your growing company's ego-driven managers clash with process improvements? How do you balance rapid growth with team comfort when every system change feels like criticism to your employees?

The Breakthrough: Derek Crager, founder and CEO of Practical AI, discovered something revolutionary after being diagnosed as neurodivergent at age 50 - his "different" brain became his secret weapon for creating training systems that actually stick.

What You'll Discover in This Game-Changing Conversation

The Leadership Plot Twist That Changes Everything

Derek's late-life neurodiversity diagnosis (autistic, ADHD, dyslexic) became his competitive advantage in building empathetic, effective teams. Instead of seeing his different thinking patterns as limitations, he developed systematic "subroutines" to navigate complex social and professional situations. This methodical approach to human interaction became the foundation for creating training systems that actually resonate with diverse learning styles.

The AI Training Revolution (That's Not What You Think)

Here's where Derek's approach gets counterintuitive. While most companies chase the latest AI technology, Practical AI deliberately uses old-school telephone systems for their training delivery. This isn't about being behind the times - it's about solving real accessibility problems that fancy platforms create. When you remove IT security concerns, app downloads, and complex interfaces, more people actually engage with the training.

The Feedback System That Actually Gets Used

Most feedback systems fail because they're designed for the company's convenience, not the user's reality. Derek discovered that creating multiple, barrier-free feedback mechanisms transforms how teams engage with improvement processes. His approach includes daily micro-surveys that take seconds to complete, weekly group feedback sessions that feel like conversations rather than evaluations, and Customer Feedback Mechanisms that capture insights in real-time.

The SOP Nightmare Every Growing Business Faces

Every service-based business with 10+ employees faces the same universal struggle: how to implement and change Standard Operating Procedures without triggering resistance, overwhelm, or the dreaded feeling that "nothing we do is ever good enough." Derek's framework addresses this head-on by reframing process changes as experiments rather than mandates.

Perfect For Service-Based Business Owners Who Are:

This conversation is essential listening if you're struggling with team resistance to new processes and SOPs, feeling like your best intentions are being interpreted as criticism of current performance. It's particularly valuable if you're exploring AI integration without losing the human element that makes your service special, or if you're managing 10+ employees and feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of training needs that seem to multiply faster than you can address them.

Derek's insights are game-changing for leaders who are ready to turn feedback into a competitive advantage but are tired of systems that look impressive on paper yet fail spectacularly in practice. If you've ever felt frustrated by the gap between your vision for smooth operations and the messy reality of human-centered implementation, this episode provides the bridge you've been looking for.

Listen now and discover how one CEO's "different" brain created training systems that scale, stick, and actually improve your bottom line.

You can learn more about Derek Crager over at Practical AI. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

This episode delivers actionable strategies you can implement immediately - no PhD in neuroscience required.

More episodes like this one:

• Automate Your Business with Jason Bryll
• The System That Will Keep Your Business—and ADHD Brain—on Track

You've built a successful business through sheer hustle and problem-solving brilliance. But when clients ask "What's your process?" or "How do you do what you do?"—you sound like everyone else.

Meanwhile, your competitors with half your talent are commanding premium fees and getting featured as "thought leaders." What do they have that you don't?

In this revealing conversation, business strategist Charlotte exposes the hidden system that separates the experts who get forgotten from those who become unforgettable.

What You'll Discover:

The Framework Blind Spot - Why your natural expertise might be your biggest liability when it comes to standing out in a crowded market (and the counterintuitive fix that makes you magnetic to ideal clients)

The Large Organization Hack - How to weaponize your signature approach across different teams and departments to create unstoppable internal momentum (most consultants never think of this)

The "Gratitude Circle" System - Charlotte's unconventional team ritual that solves the appreciation problem plaguing most growing businesses (without the awkward forced positivity)

The SOP Automation Breakthrough - Why your standard operating procedures feel like torture to create—and the AI-assisted delegation strategy that makes documentation almost effortless

The Authority Acceleration Secret - The specific communication shift that transforms you from "another service provider" to "the person who invented the solution"

This isn't about creating more work for yourself. It's about finally packaging the brilliance you already have so it works for you instead of staying trapped in your head.

The Reality Check: Your expertise is worthless if you can't explain it in a way that makes people say "I need THAT."

Essential listening for service-based business owners, consultants, and anyone tired of being seen as "just another option" instead of THE solution.

Ready to stop being the best-kept secret in your industry? This conversation reveals the systematic approach to turning your hidden genius into your unfair advantage.

Here's the shocking reality: While you're obsessing over spreadsheets and performance metrics, there's an invisible force driving 95% of your employees' behavior—and most business leaders completely ignore it.

In this eye-opening conversation, leadership expert Mark Crowley reveals why your best people might be quietly checking out, despite hitting their numbers. You'll discover the counterintuitive approach that transforms underperforming teams without a single threat or ultimatum.

What You'll Uncover:

The 95% Rule That Changes Everything - Why the research on human behavior means your current management approach might be sabotaging your best intentions (and what successful leaders do differently)

The Remote Team Connection Crisis - As more businesses go distributed, there's a hidden epidemic destroying team cohesion. Mark shares the specific strategies that create genuine belonging across time zones and computer screens.

The Underperformance Paradox - When your team misses targets, your instinct might be making everything worse. Discover the patient, belief-based approach that actually turns struggling teams around.

The Emotional Infrastructure Gap - Most businesses build systems for processes but ignore the emotional systems that actually drive results. Learn how to design "feeling systems" that naturally motivate without micromanagement.

This isn't another productivity hack or leadership platitude. This is about understanding the fundamental human operating system that runs your business—whether you acknowledge it or not.

The Bottom Line: While your competitors are still trying to logic their way to better performance, you could be building magnetic systems that naturally align emotions with results.

Perfect for family business owners, scaling service companies, and any leader tired of constantly pushing their team uphill.

Warning: This conversation might completely flip your approach to team management. Listen only if you're ready to question everything you think you know about motivation.

Ready to stop fighting human nature and start working with it? This 53-minute deep dive could save you years of frustration and countless hours of trying to "fix" people who aren't actually broken.

Most business leaders think they need better closing techniques or flashier presentations to increase sales. But Nancy Zare, organizational development expert, discovered something shocking: The biggest barrier to sales isn't your product—it's speaking the wrong language to your prospects.

The $10,000 Mistake Most CEOs Make Daily

You're probably treating prospects how YOU want to be treated. Big mistake. Nancy's research reveals four distinct buyer types, each requiring completely different approaches:

• The "2" Buyer: Needs 1-2 touchpoints, makes quick decisions (spot them by their confident, almost smug smile)
• The "4" Buyer: Relationship-focused, needs 2-3 touchpoints (warm, genuine smile gives them away)
• The "6" Buyer: Analytical, requires 6+ touchpoints (reserved, formal expressions)
• The "8" Buyer: Thorough researchers who need extensive information (uncomfortable smiles, cautious expressions)

The LinkedIn Profile Hack That Reveals Everything

Nancy shows you how to decode prospects in under 60 seconds using social media clues—including the type of smile in their profile photo. Yes, really. This isn't personality profiling; it's sales intelligence.

Why Your Best Salespeople Are Burning Out

Here's the kicker: You're probably forcing your entire team to use the same sales process for completely different buyer types. No wonder your conversion rates are inconsistent.

The result? Longer sales cycles, more objections, and frustrated prospects who buy from competitors who "just get them."

The Platinum Rule That's Crushing the Golden Rule

Forget treating others how you want to be treated. Nancy's "Likability System" flips this on its head: Treat others how THEY want to be treated.

This isn't about manipulation—it's about respect. And respect converts.

What You'll Discover:

✅ The 6 criteria for instantly assessing someone's communication style 

✅ Why traditional sales training fails 75% of prospects 

✅ The smile decoder that reveals decision-making patterns 

✅ Time management systems that match your personality type (not everyone works like Stephen Covey) 

✅ Why building relationships beats closing techniques every single time

The Bottom Line

Nancy's clients report dramatic improvements in conversion rates, shorter sales cycles, and—here's the surprise—happier prospects who actually thank them for the sales process.

Ready to stop guessing and start systematically reading your prospects?

Get Nancy's 5-Minute Likability System: [Link in show notes] Connect with Nancy: NancyZare.com | LinkedIn Want the Magnetic Systems Method? [Link to Karl's systems guides]

Because the best sales system isn't about what you say—it's about how they hear it.

You've been there. You hire consultants, run engaging goal-setting workshops, get your team excited... then watch everything fall apart the moment the consultants leave. Sound familiar?

What if there was a systematic approach that actually sticks?

What You'll Discover in This Episode

The Wave 9 System That's Changing How Organizations Hit Their Goals

Philipp Schett reveals his breakthrough approach to OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) that goes far beyond traditional goal-setting. Instead of another "set it and forget it" workshop, Wave 9 creates magnetic systems that naturally keep teams aligned and moving forward.

Key Insights You'll Walk Away With:

✅ Why your current goal-setting process is sabotaging your results (and the 4-step system that fixes it)

✅ The "German Engineering + Creative Balance" approach that drives both precision and innovation in your team

✅ How to integrate AI into your goal management without losing human judgment and team buy-in

✅ The simple feedback loop that turns 2-hour meetings into productive 3-hour strategy sessions (counterintuitive but game-changing)

✅ Why "soft resets" 2-3 times per year outperform annual planning by keeping creativity and energy high

The Leadership Communication Challenge Solved

Discover why your team interprets "increase revenue" completely differently than you intended - and the exact process to create crystal-clear objectives that eliminate silos and misalignment.

Real Results: Organizations using this system report dramatically improved team alignment, reduced strategy confusion, and goals that actually get achieved instead of forgotten.

Perfect For Leaders Who:

• Are tired of goal-setting workshops that don't create lasting change
• Want their teams to be proactive problem-solvers, not just task-completers
• Need a systematic approach to track progress without micromanaging
• Are curious about integrating AI into their operations intelligently
• Want to remove friction from their strategic planning process

What's Next?

Free Resources Mentioned:

• Philipp is creating a free OKR course at wave9.com
• Follow his regular LinkedIn posts on using OKRs to create clarity, energy, and capability

Ready to Build Your Own Magnetic Systems? Get Karl's Magnetic Systems Method and other systems guides designed to help you find issues before they become expensive problems.

Take Action Now

Listen to this episode if you're ready to:

• Stop wasting time on goal-setting that doesn't work
• Transform your team into aligned problem-solvers
• Create systems that work even when you're not in the room

Questions or want to suggest an amazing guest? Reach out on the Systematic Leader website.

Enjoyed this episode? Take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast - it helps other busy leaders discover these game-changing insights.

This episode is part of the Systematic Leader's mission to help family-owned and service based businesses create better systems that remove friction, save time, and build resilient cultures.

Top Insights You Don’t Want to Miss:

Systems That Scale

From form-based guest screening to automated task creation in Asana, Abagail walks us through the backend of her podcast operations—saving hours and upping the caliber of every guest.

AI Meets Human Ingenuity

ChatGPT Pro is in her daily toolkit—helping plan episodes, generate questions, and repurpose content. But the real magic? Pairing AI with strong brand voice and creative judgment.

Platform-Specific Content is Non-Negotiable

Abagail breaks down her content approach by platform:

• LinkedIn = Thought Leadership
• 
  
• Instagram/TikTok = Entertainment & Teasers

The goal isn’t full reveals—it’s sparking curiosity that pulls people deeper.

Feedback Isn’t Fluff—It’s Fuel

She’s built feedback loops across emails, forums, and client interviews to continually improve products and UX. Every touchpoint is an opportunity to listen and level up.

Learning is a Long Game

Success isn’t found in post #5—it’s in post #2,000. Abagail shares how she studies trends, dissects what works, and spends up to 4 hours crafting a single piece of content when testing new platforms.

Tools & Team

Her lean team runs on Slack, Asana, Fellow, and Hey Taco—prioritizing clarity, appreciation, and staying out of the weeds.

Learn more about Abagail Pumphrey over at Boss Project. You can also check out her podcast, Strategy Hour. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Key Highlights from the Show

1. The Power of Proactive Communication Systems

Karl emphasizes that the #1 strategy for business growth is creating proactive communication rather than reactive follow-ups. Instead of constantly chasing down information from employees or contractors, establish systems where updates come to you automatically. This simple shift saves time, reduces stress, and creates consistency across your operations.

2. The Friday Morning Update System

Implement a simple but powerful system: have team members send you updates every Friday morning by 10 AM covering what's working well, what's not working, and what they're doing to improve situations. The key is responding back consistently to close the feedback loop and show you value their input.

3. Connected Systems Drive Business Success

All business systems should connect and communicate with each other. When sales, operations, and customer service work in silos, problems compound. Bill shares examples from nursing homes where connecting clinical, admissions, and financial systems dramatically improved overall performance by helping each department understand their impact on the whole.

4. Building "Magnetic" Systems People Want to Use

The most effective systems are ones that employees are naturally drawn to use because they see clear value. Focus on creating systems that make people's jobs easier and help them succeed, rather than systems that feel like additional burdens. When people understand how their work connects to company success, they become more engaged.

5. The Appreciation Gap Solution

Address the massive appreciation gap in business: Only 15% of employees feel appreciated, while 85% of leaders think they give enough appreciation. That’s a huge gap! You can learn about my system to solve this issue and how you can apply it to your leadership style.

You can get the Quick-start Ai Operations Guided and customized Chat GPT to help you integrate AI into your operations (as well as other systems guides).

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Listen to similar episodes that will help your career:

• The System That Will Keep Your Business—and ADHD Brain—on Track
• Leaders Need to Ditch Conventional Messaging with Mark Levy

Big Ideas from the Episode

1. Lead with Questions, Not Answers

Too many leaders default to "solving" when they should be curious. Dave challenges us to create space for others' ideas by asking better questions — and letting silence do some of the heavy lifting.

2. Trust Is Built Through Vulnerability

Want more openness from your team? Go first. Admit mistakes, be transparent about uncertainty, and model the behavior you want to see. Trust follows behavior — not titles.

3. Rethink Your Meetings

No more "death by update." Share status reports in writing and use meeting time to solve real problems, explore new ideas, and tap into group intelligence. Pro tip: Leaders should speak last to avoid biasing the room.

4. Use the ‘Collective Genius’ Framework

To unlock true collective intelligence, start by defining the problem and the criteria for success before any brainstorming begins. This ensures everyone is solving the same problem and aiming at the same outcome. Next, give people time to reflect individually before the meeting — even a short pause or overnight buffer allows for deeper thinking and better ideas. When it's time to gather input, capture every idea without judgment or immediate evaluation. This creates psychological safety and encourages contributions from all voices, not just the loudest. Once ideas are on the table, use cumulative voting — where participants can allocate multiple votes — to prioritize the most promising directions. Finally, focus the group’s energy and discussion only on the top-voted ideas. This keeps the conversation productive, targeted, and respectful of everyone’s time and input.

5. Make Feedback a System, Not a Surprise

Regular process checks after meetings, employee-led reviews, and clear growth conversations build a culture of continuous improvement. Ask often: “How can I better support you?”

Leadership in Action

• Use “Connection Questions” in meetings to build trust
• Try “honorable closure” — end meetings with a quick reflection or feedback moment
• Set reminders (even on Post-its) to ask before telling
• Have your team lead their own reviews — it builds ownership

Try This This Week:

✅ Ask one more question before offering an opinion

✅ Run a meeting where you speak last

✅ Do a 60-second feedback loop at the end of your next team session

Learn more about Dave Garrison over at Garrison Growth. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Leveraging ClickUp for feedback and productivity

Mike discussed how he has been using ClickUp to streamline his business operations, particularly in gathering feedback from his community and audience. He explained how ClickUp's forms and project management features allow him to centralize feedback, iterate quickly on offerings like his virtual retreats, and maintain focus by having everything in one place.

Watch the 5-min Systems Segment on YouTube:

2. Harnessing energy and attention

Mike talked about the importance of understanding and leveraging your energy levels to be more productive. He explained how breaking down big tasks into smaller, low-energy actions can help you make progress even when you don't have a lot of motivation. Mike also discussed the concept of "attention paths" - looking at your to-do list through the lens of factors like time, resources, energy, activity type, and theme.

3. Developing principles and values

Mike emphasized the need to have principles in place that help you live up to your core values. He provided the example of being a night owl but also needing to show up early for workshops to serve his community. Mike suggested that principles act as scaffolding between your values and actions, allowing you to navigate tradeoffs and stay true to what's most important.

4. Recap and next steps

Mike shared information about where listeners can find his book "The Productivity Diet" and mentioned that he is working on a follow-up book called "Productiveness" that will focus more on the principles of being productive. He also discussed his plans to continue marketing "The Productivity Diet" this year and potentially release "Productiveness" in early 2024.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

In this insightful podcast episode, we explore how Toyota’s legendary approach to systems, leadership, and culture offers game-changing lessons for leaders at any scale, whether you're running a massive enterprise or a fast-growing startup.

1. Relentless Focus

At the core of Toyota’s philosophy is a relentless focus on effectiveness and efficiency, not through shortcuts, but by maximizing value-creating work and systematically reducing waste. Leaders will appreciate how Toyota improves quality and speed simultaneously, showing that excellence and efficiency are not opposites but partners.

2. Problem-solving

A key highlight of the discussion is Toyota’s deep-rooted problem-solving culture. Every employee is expected to be a problem-solver, and leadership’s main role is to empower and develop people to do just that. For leaders feeling stuck in firefighting mode, this episode reveals how investing in frontline problem-solving creates a smarter, faster, more resilient organization.

3. Strategic Execution

The episode also dives into strategic execution systems like Hoshin Kanri and PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) — powerful frameworks that ensure organizations focus on a few critical priorities while staying agile through continuous improvement. If you’re struggling with scattered efforts or unclear goals, these methods provide a clear blueprint to tighten focus and accelerate progress.

4. Respect

Another profound takeaway is Toyota’s unique interpretation of “Respect for People.” It’s not just about being kind — it’s about genuinely believing every team member has the ability to improve their work and actively creating a culture where they are expected and empowered to do so.

5. Engaging employees

Finally, leadership development gets a bold reframe: at Toyota, "a manager without a problem is a problem." Leaders aren’t judged by how well they maintain the status quo, but by how deeply they engage with work, remove burdens from their teams, and develop people’s capabilities over time.

If you're a leader aiming to build a high-performing, adaptive, and resilient organization, this episode isn’t optional listening — it’s essential.

Learn more about Mark Reich over at 

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Five C’s of coaching

Dave explains his 5-part coaching framework that he developed to structure his coaching calls: 

1. Capacity
2. Clarity
3. Celebration
4. Conversation
5. Commitments

This framework provides a consistent structure while allowing flexibility to adjust based on the client's needs.

Listen to the 5-Min Systems Segment on my YouTube channel.

2. Avoiding tangents and staying focused

He shares how the framework helps him keep coaching sessions focused on the most important issues, rather than getting sidetracked by clients wanting to just talk about all the positive things happening. The framework allows him to consistently steer the conversation back to the key priorities.

3. Flexibility within the framework

He explains that he calls it a "framework" rather than a "system" to emphasize the flexibility it provides. The structure can be adjusted based on factors like the client's capacity on a given day, allowing more time for certain parts of the framework as needed.

4. Dave's background and path to coaching

He shares how he was always a talkative kid who was told he "talks too much" on his report cards. This led him to study organizational communications in college and eventually get trained as an executive coach, before transitioning to full-time coaching work.

5. Coaching vs. managing

He distinguishes between coaching, which is about asking powerful questions and holding space for the client to discover solutions, versus managing, which is more prescriptive and directive. He explains how leaders need to know when to coach versus when to manage, based on factors like time constraints and the employee's skills.

6. The power of curiosity and humility in leadership

He emphasizes the importance of leaders cultivating "curious humility" - being genuinely curious to understand their team's perspectives, while also being humble enough to admit when they don't have all the answers. This creates an environment where team members feel empowered to provide feedback and dissenting views.

Learn more about Dave Bates over at Paravelle. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Creative facilitation for bridging gaps

Vincent discusses how he uses creative facilitation techniques, such as having participants choose chairs that represent their company, to help bridge communication gaps between business stakeholders and creatives. This allows him to get valuable insights and buy-in for branding and marketing projects.

Watch the 5-minute System on YouTube:

2. Balancing vision and execution as a creative leader

He explains the importance of doing extensive research to understand the client's business, then translating that into clear creative objectives for the team. He discusses the balance of providing creative vision while also overseeing the execution to ensure it meets business goals.

3. Onboarding and managing new hires

He outlines his structured 30-60-90 day onboarding process for new hires, which includes checkpoints to ensure they are set up for success. He emphasizes the importance of getting feedback from new employees to identify and address any obstacles.

4. Scaling a business while maintaining sustainability

He shares his personal struggles with scaling a business too quickly, leading to unsustainable growth. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining business fundamentals, being conservative with resources, and leveraging tools like AI to multiply oneself rather than trying to do everything.

5. Influential leaders and their lessons

He discusses several influential leaders who have shaped his approach, including his sister, parents, and business leaders like Jeff Bezos and James Dyson. He highlights lessons around authenticity, developing other leaders, and balancing design with business objectives.

Learn more about Vincent Wanga on his website. You can connect with him on LinkedIn. You can also check out his book, The Art of Direction.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Introduction and AI-powered workflow automation

We discuss Chris's expertise in using AI tools like Make.com to automate business workflows. Chris shares a story about how a YouTuber named Helena Lou used Make.com to automate her social media posting and video creation, leading to significant growth in her online business.

2. Leveraging AI to enhance business operations

He explains how he helps companies identify their core business processes and then use AI-powered tools to streamline and automate those workflows. He emphasizes the importance of providing AI systems with clear parameters and prompts to ensure they deliver the desired outcomes.

3. Applying AI for competitive intelligence and strategy

We discuss how AI can be used to monitor competitor activity, track pricing changes, and provide insights to inform strategic business decisions. They highlight the value of automating these types of competitive intelligence gathering and analysis tasks.

4. Developing custom AI assistants and coaches

I share how I've been experimenting with using custom AI assistants to help coach himself, and Chris provides suggestions on how to effectively leverage AI in this capacity, such as by curating the training data and prompts to align with specific coaching goals.

5. The future impact of AI, robotics, and emerging technologies

He discusses the book "The Coming Wave" by Mustafa Seliman, which has influenced his perspective on the disruptive impact of AI, robotics, and other emerging technologies on society and the workforce. They explore how these technologies may transform industries and daily life in the coming years.

Learn more about Chris Lopez over on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

What if your team didn’t just work together—but owned each other’s success?

In this powerful episode, legendary leadership thinker Keith Ferrazzi joins us to unpack the systems behind his books Never Eat Alone and Never Lead Alone. We dive into the data-backed practices he’s uncovered from working with over 3,000 teams—and how they can radically transform how your business operates.

Watch the 5-minute systems segment about building a resilient team that supports each other on YouTube.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why moving from “leadership” to teamship is the future of high-performing organizations

✅ How to run stress testing sessions that spark accountability, innovation, and support

✅ The RAP system (Relationship Action Plan) for building strategic relationships

✅ Why giving feedback abundantly and without expectation leads to stronger teams

✅ How to run “candor breaks” to increase psychological safety by 85%

✅ The 10 critical shifts from Never Lead Alone that create co-elevating cultures

If you're leading a team—or trying to scale one—this episode is your blueprint. You’ll walk away with concrete tools you can implement immediately.

Next Steps:

→ Check out ConnectedSuccess.com for Keith’s 8-week implementation program

→ Follow Keith on LinkedIn for real-time leadership insights

→ Read Never Lead Alone for 32 proven high-return practices

Listen now and start building a team that leads with you—not just for you.

Learn more about Keith Ferrazzi over at his website of the same name. You can also connect with him on Linkedin. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview

1. Storytelling as a Leadership Skill 

Karl explains that the focus of the podcast is on leadership, systems, and storytelling. He notes that leaders need to do a better job of telling stories to engage their audience. Matthew agrees, emphasizing the importance of leaders developing stories that can draw people in and convey their message effectively.

2. The "First, Last, Best, Worst" Storytelling Exercise

He shares a technique called "first, last, best, worst" that helps people excavate stories from their past. By creating a grid to capture the first, last, best, and worst experiences related to different topics, it prompts people to uncover meaningful stories they may have forgotten. Matthew explains how this exercise can help leaders build a repertoire of stories to use in their work.

3. The Power of Stories to Connect and Influence

We discuss the psychological and neurological reasons why stories are so powerful for communication and influence. Stories can change brain chemistry, foster connection, and help people remember information better than facts or data alone. Matthew emphasizes that as leaders, telling stories should be a core part of how they engage and motivate their teams.

4. Telling Stories with Empathy and Avoiding Content Matching

He shares strategies for telling stories that resonate, such as listening closely to understand the underlying meaning and feelings behind someone else's story, and then responding with an empathetic story of your own that connects on an emotional level rather than just matching the content. He explains how this approach can help build trust and rapport as a leader.

5. A Personal Story Demonstrating Growth and Perspective Shift

He shares a story from his own life about writing a letter to Steven Spielberg as a child, critiquing a scene in the movie E.T. He reflects on how this early experience sparked his interest in storytelling and his tendency to analyze stories for what works and what doesn't. The story illustrates Matthew's lifelong fascination with stories and how they can shape our perspectives.

6. Final Thoughts

We wrap up the discussion, with Karl noting how the storytelling techniques Matthew shared could be applied in both professional and personal contexts, such as with his own teenage son. Matthew reiterates the importance of leaders strategically choosing when and how to share stories to build trust and connection with their teams.

Learn more about Matthew Dicks over at his website of the same name. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Overcoming challenges through systems

Tony shares how he learned the importance of breaking down complex tasks into small, manageable steps from his musical training and his mother's experience overcoming polio. This foundational lesson of "small steps, big results" has shaped his approach to building successful systems and businesses.

Watch the 5-minute System Segment on YouTube.

2. Pivoting from agency to software

When Tony's marketing agency was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, he made the strategic decision to pivot his focus to developing scalable software. This transition led him to create Guestify, a podcast guest booking system that leverages AI, as well as an AI marketplace - aligning with his passion for systems and automation.

3. The "Results Loop" system for business growth

Tony explains his "Results Loop" system, which outlines the key internal and external factors for exponentially growing a business. The internal factors include defining the target market, offerings, and value proposition, while the external factors focus on increasing the number of buyers, size of transactions, and customer loyalty.

4. Leveraging AI for software development

Tony discusses his process for utilizing AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Anthropic Gemini to streamline his software development. He describes how he combines the strengths of different AI models to conceptualize designs, generate code, and debug issues - an iterative, modular approach that allows him to efficiently build and refine his products.

5. Gratitude for his mother's resilience

Tony expresses deep gratitude for his mother, who overcame polio and served as a role model for resilience and determination. Her example of breaking down challenges into small, achievable steps has been a profound influence on Tony's own entrepreneurial journey and systems-focused mindset.

Check out his marketing manifesto: https://smallstepsbigprofits.com/manifesto-confirmation/

Learn more about Tony Guarnaccia over at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. You can also check out his marketing manifesto to learn more about his system of growing a business.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Why Systems-Driven Learning Matters

Most businesses focus on execution, but structured learning opportunities create long-term success. Jason shared how his company builds intentional learning structures to empower employees and improve client outcomes:

• Monthly Learning Days – Employees dedicate time to learning skills like SQL or Python.
• Onboarding Checklists & Training Videos – New hires ramp up faster with customized learning paths.
• Internal Knowledge Sharing – "Show and Tell" sessions encourage employees to share insights from client projects.

Key Takeaway: A culture of learning creates a smarter, more adaptable workforce.

2. Automating the Repetitive: The Power of RPA

We also discussed Robotic Process Automation (RPA)—a game-changer for businesses drowning in repetitive tasks.

Example: Jason’s team automated insurance claim follow-ups for healthcare practices, reducing manual work and freeing up staff for higher-value tasks.

3. Data-Driven Decision-Making

Smart leaders don’t just collect data—they use it. Jason shared how Parable Associates builds feedback loops to refine their systems:

Monthly Executive Leadership Committee (ELC) Meetings – Full-day strategic planning powered by data.

Asana for Tracking Agenda Items – Ensures important issues are discussed.

Employee Pulse Surveys – Five quick questions every month to gauge team sentiment.

Key Takeaway: Reviewing data consistently leads to smarter business decisions.

4. Content as a System: Turning Knowledge into Assets

Another key topic? Using structured content marketing to improve client engagement and training.

Custom training videos – Used for internal learning and as a value-add for clients.

Monthly blog performance reviews – Analyzing read counts and engagement to refine content strategy.

Exploring a YouTube channel – Jason is considering a healthcare operations and data management content hub.

Key Takeaway: Content isn’t just marketing—it’s a business asset.

Learn more about Jason Bryll over at Parable Associates. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Most companies don’t fail because of bad ideas—they fail because of bad systems. Employees drown in confusion, feedback loops break down, and leadership struggles to balance priorities. But what if there was a way to fix it?

In this episode, we sit down with Garrett Delph, founder of ClarityOps, to explore the power of systems thinking in organizational design—and why clear processes and structured feedback are the unsung heroes of high-performing businesses.

Highlights from the interview:

1. The Systems-Driven Organization

The best organizations don’t just “wing it.” They define their values, build for the long term, and create structures that align with their mission.Culture isn’t what you say—it’s how you operate. If leadership doesn’t actively design a feedback-driven culture, one will form by default (often in ways you don’t want).

2. How ClarityOps is Redefining Job Roles

The Net Set 360 System transforms how companies handle job descriptions and career paths—turning outdated, misaligned roles into a searchable, structured database that provides clarity for employees and leaders alike. Why this matters: When roles aren’t clear, confusion skyrockets, performance dips, and misalignment spreads like wildfire.

3. Feedback: The Lifeline of a Healthy Company

Anonymous surveys only work if leadership truly listens and acts on the feedback. One-on-one interviews uncover deeper insights than quick, surface-level feedback. Companies that thrive require a culture of psychological safety—where employees feel comfortable speaking up without fear of retaliation.

4. Balancing Workloads: The Hidden Leadership Challenge

One of the biggest silent killers of productivity? Leaders keep adding responsibilities without removing others. Activity maps help visualize and balance workloads, while temporary flex goals ensure shifting priorities don’t become permanent overload. Regular check-ins are critical to adjust responsibilities as business needs evolve.

5. Leadership That Works: Lessons from Bill Campbell

The legendary advisor to tech giants believed great leadership starts with great management.

Key traits of strong managers:

1. Clear planning – No guessing games, just intentional strategy.

2. Integrity – Leading with transparency and fairness.

3. Crystal-clear communication – Setting expectations so there’s no room for misalignment.

Next Steps for Listeners

• Host regular “systems jam sessions” to find and fix friction points in your organization.
• Evaluate your feedback mechanisms—are you truly creating a safe space for employees to share?
• Audit your job descriptions and workloads to ensure they’re clear, balanced, and aligned with company goals.
• Assess your company values—are they being operationalized in daily business, or are they just words on a wall?

This conversation is a must-listen for any leader looking to build an organization that thrives on clarity, not confusion. Tune in now! 

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Learn more about Garrett Delph over Clarity Ops. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Content creation system

Justin Vajko shares his content creation system that helps him consistently produce and publish content for his business. The system involves recording himself during client calls and podcasts, automatically uploading the recordings to Dropbox, and then having his team clip, write, and publish the content. This system helps Justin overcome his ADHD-related challenges with consistent content creation.

Watch the 5 minute Systems Segment on YouTube

2. ADHD and building systems

He discusses how his ADHD has impacted his work and life, and the importance of building systems to compensate for his weaknesses. He shares how he discovered his ADHD in high school and has since developed many systems and routines, like dedicated weekly time with his wife and friends, to help him stay organized and productive.

.4 Delegating and reviewing work

We discuss the importance of delegating tasks that play to one's strengths, and the challenges of building effective review processes. Justin acknowledges that reviewing work is a weakness for him, and they explore strategies for finding the right people to handle that responsibility.

5. Celebrating wins and expressing gratitude

The conversation turns to the importance of celebrating wins and expressing gratitude, which Justin has struggled with in the past. They discuss how Justin's entrepreneurial mindset and ADHD can make it difficult to pause and appreciate progress, and the value of building systems to ensure consistent recognition of achievements.

6. Mentors and lessons learned

He reflects on a former boss, John Eilie, who provided him with significant grace and support early in his career as he learned to build systems and overcome the challenges of his ADHD. He expresses gratitude for John's patience and guidance, which laid the foundation for Justin's current success.

Key Takeaways:

• Justin leverages his ADHD as a strength in entrepreneurship, developing systems to compensate for challenges.
• Delegation and building a supportive team are crucial for managing ADHD-related struggles in business.
• Self-awareness and open communication about work styles help improve leadership and team dynamics.
• Systematic review processes and celebration of wins are areas for potential improvement in Justin's business

Learn more about Justin Vajko over at Dialog Video Marketing. You can also connect with Justin over on Linkedin.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Relationship-Building System

Greg explains his system for building relationships, which centers around using his calendar and contact information to consistently reach out and connect with people, such as sending birthday wishes. He emphasizes the value of this simple yet powerful system in establishing trust and staying top-of-mind.

2. The Importance of Empathy and Supporting Employees

Greg and Karl discuss how leaders often struggle to build genuine connections with their employees, focusing too much on results rather than understanding their team's needs and challenges. They highlight the importance of empathy, creating supportive systems, and prioritizing the well-being of employees to foster a positive company culture.

3. Embracing Authenticity and Openness 

Greg shares a valuable lesson he has learned from past leaders - the importance of being authentic and embracing one's unique personality, rather than trying to fit a certain mold. He emphasizes that by being true to oneself, leaders can attract the right people and build meaningful connections.

Learn more about Greg Wasserman over on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Mastermind system for cross-team collaboration

He describes a system of cross-team masterminds where employees from different departments come together to share problems and brainstorm solutions. This helps improve communication, understanding, and problem-solving across the organization.

Watch the 5-minute Systems Segment on YouTube

2. Automation and efficiency gains from mastermind insights

An example is provided where the marketing team was able to automate processes after getting input from the more tech-savvy production team during a mastermind session. This led to significant time savings for the marketing department.

3. Jason's background and polymorphic career path 

He shares how his diverse experiences, from economics to music to cartoons, have shaped his ability to think creatively and tackle complex problems, especially in understanding how search engines and AI work.

4. Maintaining regular communication with team leads

He has weekly 30-minute calls with each department head to stay connected, understand challenges, and provide guidance, as well as a monthly all-hands meeting where everyone shares wins, struggles, and other updates.

5. Intentional reflection time and setting reasonable daily goals 

He describes a daily routine of spending 10 minutes in the morning reflecting on the day ahead, assessing what is reasonable and possible to accomplish, rather than creating overly ambitious to-do lists.

Learn more about Jason Barnard over at Kalicube. You can also connect with Jason on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Relationship-Building System

He explains his system for building relationships, which centers around using his calendar and contact information to consistently reach out and connect with people, such as sending birthday wishes. He emphasizes the value of this simple yet powerful system in establishing trust and staying top-of-mind.

2. The Importance of Empathy and Supporting Employees

He and Karl discuss how leaders often struggle to build genuine connections with their employees, focusing too much on results rather than understanding their team's needs and challenges. They highlight the importance of empathy, creating supportive systems, and prioritizing the well-being of employees to foster a positive company culture.

3. Embracing Authenticity and Openness 

He shares a valuable lesson he has learned from past leaders - the importance of being authentic and embracing one's unique personality, rather than trying to fit a certain mold. He emphasizes that by being true to oneself, leaders can attract the right people and build meaningful connections.

Learn more about Greg Wasserman over on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

1. The "PERFORM" system for employee retention

Russel shares his "PERFORM" system, which stands for: Personal one-on-ones, Empowerment, Relationship building, Feeling valued, Ownership, Relatability, and Meaningful experience. He explains how each of these elements has helped him retain the same team for over 12 years.

2. Importance of personal one-on-ones

He highlights the personal one-on-one meetings as a key part of his PERFORM system. He shares how his team strongly resisted when he tried to cancel these meetings, as they found immense value in the dedicated time and space to connect with Russel.

3. Connecting employee values and motivations to their work

He explains how he worked to understand each team member's individual values, passions, and motivations, and then found ways to connect their work to those personal drivers. This helped create a more meaningful experience for the employees.

4. Challenges of leadership and self-awareness

He discusses his tendency to be very passionate in conversations, which can sometimes come across negatively. He shares strategies he uses, like leaving himself reminders, to be more intentional about his communication style and how it is received.

5. Importance of iterative improvement and reflection

He highlights the value of practices like meditation and journaling to help him reflect on his leadership and continually improve. He emphasizes the importance of being open to learning, even from poor leadership examples in the past.

Learn more about Russel Lolacher over at his website Russel Lolacker website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Empowering employees through recognition

Rob Roy shares his system for recognizing and valuing his employees. He makes a point to acknowledge 2-3 people at every event, providing personalized praise that is meaningful to each individual. This helps foster a sense of belonging and appreciation, rather than just a transactional relationship.

You can watch Rob’s 5 Minute System Segment on YouTube.

2. Cultivating a culture of trust and empowerment 

Rob describes how he empowers his team to make decisions and strategize on the company's vision and plans. He holds annual planning sessions where the team collaborates to map out the year, with Rob providing the high-level direction and the team working out the details and logistics. This allows his employees to take ownership and feel invested in the company's success.

3. Feedback loops and continuous improvement

Rob has implemented feedback systems to gather ongoing input from clients on his coaches' performance. This allows him to identify areas for improvement and provide additional training and support to his team. He also seeks feedback from the clients to understand the real impact of the coaching, not just surface-level metrics.

4. Cultivating meaningful relationships 

Rob discusses the importance of building genuine relationships with his employees, clients, and mentors. He highlights the advice and support he has received from successful business leaders like Yakov and Lance, who have emphasized the value of putting people first. Rob strives to embody this mindset in his leadership approach.

Learn more about Rob Roy over at Trident Coaching and Consulting. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a fantastic guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Remote Work Systems

Seth discusses how his e-commerce company uses Loom videos and AI-generated transcripts to create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for remote employees. This helps document processes and train new hires when existing team members leave or change roles.

2. Customer Service Processes

Seth explains how the company uses macros and pre-written responses in their email and chat tools to efficiently handle common customer inquiries. They also track frequently asked questions to identify opportunities for better product education or new product development.

3. Balancing Data and Intuition

Seth discusses the importance of using both customer data/feedback and his own intuition when making product and business decisions. He notes that sometimes customers don't know what they want, so innovating beyond their stated preferences can be key.

4. Fostering a Culture of Innovation

Seth emphasizes the need to take risks and try new things to drive growth, rather than just optimizing existing processes. He cautions against becoming complacent and boring, which can happen as a company matures.

5. Servant Leadership

Seth reflects on a former boss who exemplified servant leadership, always being willing to do the work herself and supporting her team. He strives to emulate this approach in his own leadership.

Learn more about Seth Spears over at Wellnesse. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Douglas' AI-powered content automation system

Douglas describes an automated system he has built to streamline his content creation and distribution processes. This includes an AI-generated daily newsletter, automated social media posts, and an AI-narrated podcast - all from a single news article or blog post input. The system saves him significant time while maintaining quality and consistency.

Watch the five minute systems segment on YouTube where Douglas explains his automation system.

2. Importance of human oversight and values-alignment with AI

Douglas emphasizes the need to have clear standards and checkpoints when using AI, to ensure it aligns with one's values and avoids undesirable outputs. He describes his process of mapping out workflows, identifying appropriate automation opportunities, and strategically placing human review steps.

3. Future trends in AI and intelligent agents

Douglas discusses the rise of intelligent agents that can remember context, take actions on one's behalf, and become more interactive than current chatbots. He believes these will have significant business applications beyond just consumer tasks like booking travel.

4. Automating video content creation

Douglas shares a new automation system he has built to streamline the process of creating and publishing video content. This allows him to focus on the creative aspects while automating the technical tasks like editing, formatting, and distribution.

Learn more about Douglas Cambell over at Raizor. You can also connect with him on Linkedin.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

In this episode, Dustin Riechmann sits down with me, to break down how strategic systems can transform the way you work.

Karl’s journey is anything but ordinary—from running a thriving mushroom business in college to balancing a Fortune 100 career while scaling his own ventures. His secret? Building systems that eliminate friction and create momentum.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🔹 Why friction is the #1 killer of business growth—and how to remove it.

🔹 How to turn customer feedback into a roadmap for success.

🔹 The secret to designing systems that scale, so your business doesn’t rely on you 24/7.

Karl’s Actionable Strategies for Entrepreneurs:

✅ Stop guessing—ask your customers. Regularly collect and act on feedback to refine your processes.

✅ Eliminate the busywork. Design systems that remove repetitive tasks and free up your time.

✅ Build a scalable flywheel. Solve one problem at a time to create momentum that fuels long-term success.

If you’re tired of spinning your wheels and want to turn big ideas into real, scalable success, this episode is for you.

Listen now and start building the systems that will take your business to the next level!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the show:

1. Importance of authenticity and relatability in leadership

Kyle discusses how he has always believed that authenticity and relatability are the foundation of effective leadership. He shares how he has focused on connecting with the people he leads, rather than just the processes and procedures, in order to build trust and enable their success.

2. Establishing clear expectations and enabling employee success

He  explains his approach to setting clear expectations with his team members during onboarding, and then working to remove any obstacles or roadblocks that prevent them from being successful. He emphasizes the importance of having open conversations to understand what each person needs from him as a leader.

3. Inspiring and motivating the team through challenges 

He discusses how he inspires and motivates his team, not just by focusing on metrics and results, but by understanding the personal and professional challenges they face. He shares a story about owning up to a $10 million mistake and how that built trust and loyalty with his team.

4. The 10 "We" principles for building a culture of excellence 

He outlines the 10 "We" principles he has developed to build a culture of excellence, including doing the right thing, leading by example, owning mistakes, and challenging each other. He explains how these principles have become embedded in the culture of the organizations he has led.

5. Influential leaders who shaped Kyle's approach 

He shares two leaders who have significantly influenced his leadership approach - Harry Kramer, the former CEO of Baxter International, and William Krenz, a COO he reported to earlier in his career. He discusses the valuable lessons he learned from each of them about the importance of values-based leadership and caring for employees as people.

Learn more about Kyle McDowell over at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Importance of Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership

Hannah shares a story about driving 4 hours to fill in for a staffing role, demonstrating her commitment to the team and the business. She emphasizes the importance of leaders being fully engaged and showing up for their team, no matter the personal cost. This sets the tone for the discussion on Hannah's leadership approach.

2. Systematic Approach to One-on-One Meetings

Hannah describes her weekly 15-30 minute one-on-one meetings with each of her 15 direct reports. The structured format includes: 1) Asking how they are doing, 2) Understanding their current priorities and what's not getting done, 3) Discussing how they plan to address gaps, and 4) Offering to take anything off their plate. This consistent process builds trust and uncovers important insights about her team.

3. Overcoming Judgment and Assumptions

Hannah shares a personal story about being demoted from a leadership role early in her career due to being perceived as judgmental. This experience taught her the importance of leading with curiosity, listening to understand, and avoiding assumptions. She emphasizes the need for leaders to create a safe space for open feedback and vulnerability.

4. Mentors and Lessons Learned 

Hannah reflects on two key mentors who have shaped her leadership approach - her 8th grade teacher who modeled grace and inclusion, and her father who challenged her with high expectations but unwavering support. These stories highlight the value of learning from others and being willing to step outside one's comfort zone.

Learn more about Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker over at Better Together Group. You can also connect with her on Linkedin. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Related podcasts and articles:

• Scaling Success with Vulnerability with Justin Moore
• How Leaders Can Build Efficient Teams

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

1. Importance of understanding different perspectives

Karl and Liane discuss the challenges of teamwork, noting that cognitive biases and the tendency to overemphasize our own reality make it difficult to truly understand others' perspectives. They emphasize the need to create an environment where healthy conflict and tension can thrive, rather than avoiding conflict altogether.

2. Systematizing healthy conflict

Liane explains the difference between "productive tension" and "unhealthy friction" in teams. She outlines an exercise to help team members understand the unique value they bring, the stakeholders they represent, and the tensions they are obligated to introduce. This allows teams to have constructive debates and discussions, rather than personal conflicts.

3. The three phases of decision-making

Liane describes a three-phase approach to decision-making: 1) Deliberation, where healthy conflict and tension are encouraged, 2) Implementation, where team members must "disagree and commit" to the decision, and 3) Evaluation, where the decision is openly reviewed and assessed. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining the right level of conflict in each phase.

4. Managing thought load and productivity

Liane shares her personal struggle with "thought load" - the combination of distraction, anxiety, and burnout that plagues many professionals. She outlines the systems she has put in place to manage her attention, anxiety, and energy, including a "Thought Load Planner" and various mindfulness practices. She emphasizes the importance of these strategies for improving productivity and overall well-being.

5. Closing and next steps

Liane provides information on how listeners can connect with her further, including her website, YouTube channel, and LinkedIn presence. Karl thanks Liane for the insightful conversation and offers to provide feedback or connect her with potential guests for his podcast.

Learn more about Liane Davey over at 3Coze. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview

1. Importance of pondering and reflection

Eric and Karl discuss how modern society has lost the ability to ponder and reflect, often filling any gaps in attention with technology and data consumption. They explore how this tendency to seek immediate answers and efficiency can hinder deeper thinking and innovation.

2. Childhood experiences and imagination

He shares formative experiences from his childhood, such as long car rides and church services, that fostered his natural inclination for pondering and imagination. These early experiences shaped his later approach to problem-solving and understanding human behavior.

3. Helping clients ponder and gain customer insights

He describes his approach to working with clients, which involves creating "simulated sales" experiences to elicit emotional responses and uncover deeper customer insights. This involves using visual prompts, asking probing questions, and providing time for the client team to reflect on the feedback.

4. Balancing data and emotion in decision-making

We discuss the importance of balancing data-driven and emotional decision-making, noting that customers often make purchases based on emotion rather than pure logic. They emphasize the value of creating experiences that evoke emotional responses to uncover underlying customer needs and motivations.

5. Developing systems and routines for innovation

Eric and Karl explore the role of systems and routines in fostering innovation, noting the need to carefully manage variables and test hypotheses in a methodical way. They highlight the value of creating feedback loops and being willing to challenge one's own assumptions in order to drive meaningful progress.

Closing thoughts and next steps

The conversation concludes with a discussion of the importance of seeking outside perspectives and being open to new ways of thinking. 

Learn more about Eric White over at Ponder. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Why Your Team Needs Structure to Succeed (And How to Build It Right)

Highlights from the interview:

1. The 6 Levers framework

Shaun provides an overview of the 6 Levers framework, which covers identity, leadership, rhythm, momentum, focus, and cohesion. He explains how these levers help teams and organizations establish shared purpose, align on priorities, and build healthy ways of working.

2. Shaun's leadership journey and challenges

Shaun shares a personal story about a challenging period when he was the COO of a growing nonprofit organization. He discusses how he struggled to maintain work-life balance and the importance of setting clear boundaries as a leader.

4. Systems and frameworks for self-care and support 

Shaun describes the personal practices he developed to manage stress and maintain perspective, including daily prayer and journaling, as well as a weekly support group with other leaders. He emphasizes the value of having trusted advisors who can provide honest feedback.

5. Iterating and experimenting with new approaches 

Shaun and Karl discuss the importance of a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement, where teams are willing to try new things, gather feedback, and make adjustments based on what they learn. They highlight the need to balance this with structured rhythms for reflection and refinement.

Learn more about Shaun Lee over at 6 Levers Framework website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. Check out his book At the Heart of Work on Amazon.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

1. Perspective on Leadership

John Marvin discusses his view of leadership, emphasizing that leadership is about influence rather than just authority or title. He believes leaders must be able to connect with and serve their team, building relationships based on trust and vulnerability. Marvin highlights the importance of active listening, empathy, and creating an environment where people feel comfortable being open and honest.

2. Building Relationships Through Intentional Presence

He explains his approach to building strong relationships with his team, including regularly scheduled one-on-one meetings where he makes a point to be fully present and engaged. He discusses the importance of controlling one's own mindset and discipline to avoid distractions and truly listen. Marvin also shares how he follows up on commitments using digital tools to ensure he doesn't drop the ball.

3. Reflection and Personal Growth

He describes his daily morning routine of reflection, where he reviews his personal and professional goals, affirmations, and contemplates ways to improve himself and the company. He also discusses his end-of-year review process, where he looks back on the past year's accomplishments and challenges to identify areas for growth. Marvin believes personal development is key to professional development, and he aims to instill this mindset in his team.

4. Gratitude and Celebrating Milestones

He shares how he makes an effort to recognize important milestones, such as birthdays, for his team members. He believes these small gestures help people feel valued and special, strengthening the relationships. Marvin also expresses gratitude for the time and attention his team members give him, seeing it as a privilege rather than an obligation.

5. Closing Thoughts on Leadership and Personal Growth

In closing, Marvin reflects on the leaders and authors who have most influenced his own personal and professional development, including Napoleon Hill, James Allen, and John Maxwell. He emphasizes the importance of intentional, consistent effort towards self-improvement, and how this ultimately benefits both the individual and the organization they serve.

Learn more about John Marvin over at the TSO (Texas State Optical). You can also connect with him on Linked.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Method (and other systems guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. How to create products your customers want

I love the story that Tommy shared about a failed product launch and what he did to learn and grow from it.

2. How to create more powerful content

He shares how leaders can listen to marketing department and their customers to gather great content. 

3. Why leader need to listen to their employees

Leaders often want instant results and don’t listen to what will help the marketing team understand the pain points of the customers so they can create better content.

4. The importance of research

Why leaders often avoid research and what they can do to give themselves and their employees the time to dig deeper into creating great content.

5. The power of sharing ideas with employees

Learn how you can show employees that the leadership team is listening and wants to highlight people’s great work in every part of the company.

To dive deeper, listeners can visit Tommy at The Content Studio website. You can also connect with him on Linkedin.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Priorities and Vision

Leadership success starts with focusing on what matters most. True priorities stem from having a clear vision and leveraging systems to revisit and refine those priorities regularly. Harry shared how a near-death bicycle accident at age 15 taught him that control is an illusion, sparking a lifelong commitment to identifying and focusing on what truly matters. This lesson reemerged in his executive leadership roles, where he learned that consistent review and alignment with vision are critical for effective prioritization.

2. The Balancing Act of Decision-Making

Decision-making as a leader requires a delicate balance of confidence and humility. Leaders must portray confidence when they are at least 51% certain but stay humble enough to adjust as new information emerges. Harry highlighted the value of using tools like confidence intervals to improve precision, noting that with practice, leaders can act decisively when 90% confident. Calibrating confidence over time helps leaders make better decisions while maintaining the humility to admit when they’re wrong and adapt accordingly.

3. Understanding Others’ Priorities

Success as a leader also hinges on understanding and aligning with the priorities of others—whether employees, colleagues, or stakeholders. Building strong relationships requires curiosity about what drives others’ decisions and goals. By asking questions, showing empathy, and aligning your goals to support theirs, you create trust and foster collaboration. This approach not only strengthens relationships but also helps secure buy-in for your priorities.

4. Building Leadership Strength

Finally, effective communication and feedback are critical components of strong leadership. Harry emphasized the importance of paying attention to subtle cues like body language and tone to identify incongruities between verbal and non-verbal communication. Addressing these signals allows leaders to test their understanding and refine their approach. Over time, prioritizing relationship quality over immediate tasks builds long-term leadership strength and resilience, creating a foundation for sustainable success.

To dive deeper, listeners can visit Harry at harrymax.com, connect with him on LinkedIn, and check out his book Managing Priorities on Amazon. Harry also invites feedback on his upcoming chapter on execution, encouraging collaboration to refine and promote these impactful ideas.

You can get the Magnetic Systems Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Here’s a five-part summary highlighting the best ideas from the podcast interview:

1. The Power of Systems in Leadership and Relationship Building

Mo and Karl emphasized the importance of identifying and leveraging systems in both leadership and relationship development. 

Using a "10x mindset": Focus on providing value 10 times to build trust, expecting only one success out of ten efforts.

Balancing tasks: Leaders must manage the duality of "winning the work" (persuasive relationship-building) and "doing the work" (execution with precision).

The actionable insight: Approach relationships with intentionality, structure, and clear processes to maximize effectiveness and impact.

2. Overcoming Psychological Barriers and the Five Lies

Mo shared the "Five Lies" that hinder relationship building. Leaders can use these insights to identify personal roadblocks and take actionable steps toward growth.

3. Leading Through Emotional Awareness

Mo’s example of organizing a large-scale event revealed how labeling emotions (e.g., stress, worry) can foster team collaboration.

By sharing his concerns openly with his team, he transformed stress into actionable solutions, leading to a successful event.

System Insight: Recognize emotions as indicators, articulate them to trusted collaborators, and use collective brainstorming to navigate challenges effectively.

4. Strategic Giving and Its Boundaries

The distinction between "successful givers" and "unsuccessful givers" lies in setting boundaries:

Successful givers say no to unnecessary demands and scale the size of their contributions relative to the expected impact.

Examples: Offering small, manageable assistance to lower-priority requests while reserving deeper engagement for high-impact relationships.

The core idea: Giving should be generous but sustainable, ensuring that it does not drain the giver’s energy or resources.

5. Leadership Bottlenecks and Business Growth

Mo introduced a four-box model to diagnose and address bottlenecks in business growth:

Solution: Ensure differentiation and ease of purchase.

Learn more about Mo Bunnell over at Bunnell Idea Group. You can also check out his book Give to Grow (Amazong Link). Connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magnetic Systems Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Billy Broas introduces himself as the author of "Simple Marketing for Smart People" and a marketing consultant. He shares how he got into marketing after initially working in the energy industry and how he had to learn marketing from scratch to promote his online beer brewing courses.

1. The five-light bulbs framework

He explains his "five light bulbs" messaging framework. My favorite was number 5. The customer's desired future state and the benefits of your solution He emphasizes the importance of making a compelling argument for your approach (light bulb 3) rather than just focusing on the offer.

2. Applying the framework internally

I ask how the five light bulbs can be used to sell ideas and projects internally within an organization rather than just to external customers. Billy advises that the framework can be applied the same way, by clearly defining your unique approach and making a well-reasoned argument supported by evidence.

3. Feedback and continuous improvement 

He recommends regularly reviewing and updating your "message map" that captures the five light bulbs, incorporating customer feedback and insights. He suggests doing this on a weekly basis as part of a marketing meeting.

4. Closing and next steps

The discussion concludes with Billy encouraging listeners to check out his book "Simple Marketing for Smart People" to learn more about his approach. Karl thanks Billy for the insightful conversation.

Learn more about Billy Broas over at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take one minute to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magic of Feedback Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Dustin's business journey

Dustin provides an overview of his background, starting as an engineer and transitioning to entrepreneurship about 6 years ago. He describes the rapid growth of his current business, Seven Figure Leap, which helps entrepreneurs scale their marketing and offers through podcast guesting. Dustin shares the trajectory of growing from $50K in 2022 to a $250K quarterly run rate in early 2024.

2. Reaching a burnout point

Dustin describes a pivotal moment in January 2024 when the demands of running his business, including hosting Zoom calls from conferences and managing a growing program, made him feel overwhelmed and resentful. This prompted him to reevaluate his approach and consider scaling his business more sustainably.

3. Shifting to a 10M CEO mindset

With the help of a coach, Dustin explored the mindset shift of seeing himself as the CEO of a $10M company, rather than a solo entrepreneur. This prompted him to start building out systems, processes, and a team to support the growth of his business in a way that aligned with his values and goals.

4. Hiring an executive assistant

He hired a dedicated executive assistant, Tiffany, to take administrative tasks off his plate and help him focus more on the CEO-level responsibilities. He describes the structured hiring process, the importance of finding the right fit in terms of temperament and skills, and how Tiffany has helped create boundaries and efficiency.

5. Establishing operational systems

He outlines the three main operational platforms he has implemented - ClickUp for project management, Circle for client-facing activities, and High-level for sales and marketing. He explains how he is intentionally creating silos and ownership for each system, with the goal of eventually having team members manage these domains while he oversees the overall strategy.

6. Ongoing challenges with fulfillment

He acknowledges that while he has made significant progress in building systems and a team, he is still grappling with how to best handle the fulfillment and delivery aspects of his core programs. He is exploring ways to delegate more of this work while maintaining his client involvement and connection.

Learn more about Dustin Riechmann at 7 Figre Leap and connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magic of Feedback Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become an expensive problem.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Differentiation and positioning

Mark discusses the importance of differentiation and positioning for businesses and leaders. He explains how he helps organizations and individuals stand out through unique ideas, messaging, and strategies. They discuss examples of how leaders can differentiate themselves and their organizations.

2. Gathering and using stories

Mark shares techniques for gathering and leveraging stories within an organization, including having leaders share "proud moments" and systematically collecting stories about reliability, problem-solving, and other vital themes. They discuss how this can empower employees to communicate the company's unique value effectively.

3. The power of free-writing

Mark introduces the free-writing technique he learned from author Peter Elbow. This technique involves 10-minute bursts of uninterrupted writing to access new ideas and insights. He explains how this process can help overcome the limitations of the internal editor and lead to creative breakthroughs.

You can learn more about Mark Levy over at Levy Innovation. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit an amazing guest for the podcast, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take one minute to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can get the Magic of Feedback Guide (and other business system guides) to find issues before they become expensive problems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Servant leadership approach

Allen describes his leadership style as a "servant leadership" approach, where he tries to remove barriers for his employees, hold them accountable, and enable them to be their best. He believes in getting the most out of people by being a mentor and sounding board.

2. Prioritizing and balancing work

He discusses how he helps employees prioritize their work and balance "shiny objects" (new, exciting tasks) with necessary routine work. He uses a Scrum-based approach to spread work across all projects and clients, allowing employees to gain breadth of experience.

3. Feedback loops and core values

He explains how he has implemented monthly reviews of the company's core values, including clearly defining what each value means. He also has a "monthly shout-outs" program to recognize employees who embody the core values. This helps reinforce the culture and gives employees a voice.

4. Documenting processes and continuous improvement

He discusses how the company has documented standard operating procedures (SOPs) for various processes, which helps with onboarding and ensures consistency. These SOPs are regularly reviewed and updated to adapt to changing needs.

You can learn more about Allen Cooper over at Ancilla Ventures. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can join the 5 Day Proactive Feedback Challenge to build a feedback systems that improves your team and company's systems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Shifting from a sales mindset to a service mindset 

John shares how he struggled with the pressure and failure of traditional sales calls, which led him to reframe them as "serve calls" focused on genuinely helping the client rather than just making a sale. He explains how this shift in mindset was a key starting point for developing his serve to sell framework.

2. The six-step serve to sell framework 

John outlines the six steps of his serve to sell framework: 1) Relationship, 2) Results, 3) Roadblocks, 4) Resources, 5) Recap, and 6) Recommendation. He explains how each step is designed to deeply understand the client's needs and position the solution as a natural fit, rather than a hard sell.

3. Emphasizing the importance of listening and empathy 

John stresses the importance of truly listening to the client, asking open-ended questions, and providing space for them to share what matters most. He explains how this empathetic approach builds trust and makes the client feel genuinely cared for, rather than just being sold to.

4. Capturing client success stories as social proof 

John discusses the value of systematically collecting client success stories and testimonials, as this social proof helps demonstrate the real-world impact of the solutions being offered. He shares an example of how he uses automated emails to gather these stories.

You can learn more about John Meese over at Serve to Sell. You can also check out his book Serve to Sell (Amazon Link).

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can join the 5 Day Proactive Feedback Challenge to build a feedback systems that improves your team and company's systems.

1. Importance of operations and processes

Bradley discusses how entrepreneurs often focus on growth, sales, and marketing, but neglect the importance of operations and processes. He explains that this is because entrepreneurs value flexibility and freedom, which can clash with the structure and routine needed for operational efficiency. However, he emphasizes that putting the right processes in place ultimately enables greater creativity and success.

2. Cultivating feedback loops with team

Bradley shares how he initially resisted implementing structure and processes, but learned that it was necessary to get the best from his team. He discusses the importance of building trust and understanding each team member's personal goals in order to create an environment where they feel comfortable providing honest feedback. This feedback loop allows the business to improve.

3. Designing a "perfect repeatable week" 

Bradley outlines his approach to designing a "perfect repeatable week" that balances his personal and professional priorities. This involves blocking off time for deep work, limiting meetings to certain windows, and protecting his energy levels. He emphasizes the need to experiment and adjust this schedule on a quarterly basis to ensure it continues to work effectively.

4. Appreciation for a former manager 

Bradley shares a story about a former manager, Sharma, who pushed him hard but ultimately helped him recognize his full potential. He explains how Sharma's high expectations and tough feedback, while difficult in the moment, inspired him to exceed his own expectations and become the best version of himself.

You can learn more about Brady Hamner over at Blue Print OS and Above the Business podcast. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Listen to his interview on the Systematic Leader website and get the guides that help you build systems to make your life as a leader more productive, happier, and value-driven.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Justin's background and Creator Wizard business

Justin shares the story of how his sponsorship coaching business, Creator Wizard, has grown rapidly over the past couple years, going from a passion project to a full-fledged media and education company. He discusses the challenges of balancing growth with maintaining a healthy work-life balance as an entrepreneur.

2. Developing systems and processes

Justin and Karl discuss the importance of developing systems and processes to manage a growing business, including tracking metrics, getting customer feedback, and delegating work to a team. They explore Justin's efforts to transition from being the sole provider to building a team to scale the business.

3. Embracing vulnerability and transparency

Justin shares how he has tried to be more open and vulnerable about the challenges he faces as an entrepreneur, rather than projecting an image of having everything figured out. They discuss the benefits of this approach in building trust and connection with customers.

4. Feedback loops and customer insights

Justin describes specific tactics he has used to gather customer feedback and insights, such as creating an assessment tool and sharing behind-the-scenes content. They emphasize the value of truly understanding your customers' needs and pain points beyond just your core product or service.

5. Expressing gratitude and celebrating wins

Justin and Karl discuss the importance of expressing gratitude and celebrating wins, both for oneself and one's team. They acknowledge the difficulty of this, especially for driven entrepreneurs, and explore ways to build a culture of appreciation.

You can learn more about Lauren Cockerell over at her website Kwedar & Co. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Technique for coaching employees

Lauren explains that she uses the Rockefeller Habits and Scaling Up methodology, with a focus on quarterly goals, KPIs, and team alignment.

2. Quarterly goal-setting and review process

Lauren describes Kwedar's quarterly goal-setting process, where the team aligns on annual priorities, breaks them down into quarterly "rocks", and then tracks progress and celebrates successes at the end of each quarter. She emphasizes the importance of having measurable KPIs and involving the whole team.

3. Using core values to guide decisions

Lauren shares how Kwedar's core values are central to their operations used to guide decisions and have difficult conversations. She explains how the values create a common language and framework for the team.

4. PR and marketing systems

Karl and Lauren discuss Kwedar's approach to PR and marketing, emphasizing the importance of having an integrated, strategic system that aligns messaging across all channels. Lauren outlines Kwedar's process for planning, pitching, and executing PR campaigns.

5. Challenges of scaling and delegating

Lauren shares one of her current challenges - continuing to remove herself from the center of the business and delegate more to her team as Kwedar scales. She discusses using frameworks like the Accountability Chart to map out roles and responsibilities.

6. Influential leaders and mentors

Lauren reflects on two key leaders who have mentored and influenced her - her first boss, Paige Hendrix, and her recent EO coach, Robert Whitaker. She shares how she has applied lessons learned from them in building her own business.

You can learn more about Lauren Cockerell over at her website Kwedar & Co. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You can join the 5 Day Proactive Feedback Challenge to build a feedback systems that improves your team and company's systems.

Highlights from the interview:

1. Layla's journey to becoming more process-driven

Layla explains that her tendency towards creativity and chaos is what motivated her to develop more structured processes and systems in her business. She discusses how observing her own workflows and documenting the steps helped her systematize her work and eventually teach others.

2. Encouraging feedback and transparency on the team

Layla shares how she has built a culture on her team that actively encourages critical feedback and the open reporting of mistakes as a way to continuously improve processes and avoid repeating issues.

3. Frameworks for protecting time and focus

Layla outlines three key frameworks her team uses to defend their time and capacity from distractions: 1) a "no Friday tasks" policy, 2) a 20-hour weekly task limit for leadership, and 3) dedicated time for "shiny object" ideas and creativity.

4. Cultivating a playful approach to content creation

Layla discusses her approach to the creative aspects of her business, such as her YouTube channel, where she allows herself to be more playful and experimental without too much structure.

5. Influential mentors and recommended resources

Layla shares the impact of a college professor who helped her develop her communication skills, and recommends the book "Playing Big" by Tara Mohr as a resource for strategic thinking.

You can learn more about Layla Pomper over at Process Driven. You can also watch her YouTube channel, of the same name, Process Driven on YouTube. She is also on LinkedIn if you want to connect with her there.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview.

Jay Papasan's background and partnership with Gary Keller

Jay Papasan has been working with Gary Keller, the founder of Keller Williams Realty, for 24 years. They have co-authored 11 books together, including the bestselling "The One Thing". Jay's role involves managing content and creating strategic content for Keller Williams and their publishing company.

The importance of finding the right Executive Assistant (EA)

Jay has had 7 EAs over the years, and it took him some time to find the right fit. He emphasizes the importance of clearly defining the 3 critical skills the EA must have, rather than just listing out all the tasks. The right EA can help liberate the executive from administrative tasks and serve as a true business partner.

Establishing priorities and systems for productivity 

Jay uses a "411" system to set annual, monthly, and weekly goals, which he shares with his EA. This helps them stay aligned on priorities and make the right decisions about how to spend time. Jay also cautions against chasing the latest productivity tools or systems, instead focusing on making incremental improvements to the right processes.

Empowering employees and building accountability

Jay believes in building accountability relationships with his team, including his EA. He encourages them to provide honest feedback and push back when needed, rather than just deferring to him. This helps ensure he stays focused on his priorities and makes the right decisions.

You can learn more about Jay Papasan over at his website Jay Papasan About Page. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. Check out his brilliant book, The One Thing (Amazon Link), which he co-authored with Gary Keller.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Storytelling framework for business

Tim explains his framework for crafting a resonant story - deeply understanding his target audience through hundreds of customer interviews to uncover their true motivations and pain points, then aligning the company's messaging and offerings to directly address those needs.

Empowering employees with the company vision

Tim discusses how he sets a clear vision for the company and communicates it to his growing team. He emphasizes the importance of giving employees autonomy, making observations and asking questions rather than dictating, and ensuring they understand how their work connects to the overall mission. Tim also shares his approach to addressing problems as opportunities for improvement rather than crises.

Staying connected to customers as the business scales

As Storygrid has grown from 5 to 15 employees, Tim has maintained a regular cadence of customer calls and exit interviews to stay closely connected to his audience. He explains how this helps him anticipate issues, make data-driven improvements, and ensure the company's offerings continue to meet customer needs even as the business scales.

Gratitude for a key business mentor

Tim expresses gratitude for his business coach, Michael Walsh of Walsh Business Growth, who has been instrumental in guiding Tim to build out systems and empower his team as the company has grown, rather than trying to do everything himself.

You can learn more about Tim Grahl over at Story Grid Publishing. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

J

1. Embracing Systems

Michelle discusses how she initially viewed systems as restrictive but now sees them as freeing when designed properly. She explains how systems can automate tasks and protect a business, even if the owner is no longer able to do them personally.

2. Monday Morning Routine

Michelle describes her company's Monday morning meeting structure, which includes a leadership team meeting, an all-hands meeting to review the mission and provide training, and a middle management meeting. This system helps align the team, solve urgent issues, and provide consistent onboarding for new hires.

3. Understanding Employee Personalities

Michelle emphasizes the importance of understanding her team's personality types and communication styles. She adapted her leadership approach to better suit the needs of her introverted, change-averse employees rather than expecting them to adapt to her extroverted style.

4. Transparent Communication

Michelle discusses her approach to sharing information with her team, balancing transparency with avoiding unnecessary anxiety. She consults her leadership team to determine what details to share and how to frame difficult news in a way that empowers employees.

5. Empowering Employees

Michelle strives to empower her team by setting high expectations, providing feedback and development opportunities, and allowing them to take ownership of their work. She struggles with the balance of supporting them and letting them learn from their own mistakes.

6. Recommended Resource

Michelle recommends the book "Traction" as a valuable resource for leadership principles and implementing effective systems in a business.

You can learn more about Michelle Scribner over at Sum of All Numbers. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. 

1. The importance of systems and processes

Karl emphasizes the value of having well-defined systems and processes in a business, rather than just chasing revenue and profit. He explains the concept of the "flywheel" and how consistent, iterative improvements to processes can lead to compounding results over time.

2. Therman's business and leadership challenges

Therman discusses his background as a consultant, developer, and trainer, and his desire to focus more on the training aspect of his business, which he sees as more scalable. He shares his concerns about taking on a leadership role and managing employees, as he has not had that experience before.

3. Embracing the "Chief Repeating Officer" mindset

Therman has an "aha" moment when Karl introduces the concept of being a "Chief Repeating Officer" - someone who consistently communicates the vision and importance of tasks to their team. Therman realizes that he already does this effectively with his customers, and can apply the same approach with his family and any future employees.

4. Focusing on one course and building a system

Therman acknowledges that he has been trying to work on multiple courses simultaneously, which has prevented him from fully optimizing any one of them. He decides to focus his energy on his "Risk Register" course, building a structured process around it, including potentially hiring a co-host to help with accountability and production.

5. Developing a roadmap and setting expectations

Therman and Karl discuss creating a 3-month roadmap, with the first 6 weeks focused on Therman embracing the "Chief Repeating Officer" mindset, particularly with his family. They also emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations and celebrating successes along the way.

If you want to learn more about being a systematic leader join the 5 points newsletter. When you sign-up you get instant access to the Systematic Leader guides. You can learn how to improve your coaching system, develop SOPs to help you scale your business and leadership checklist to help you grow your skills and build better relationships.

Rob first learned about Bitcoin in 2012 when his son told him about a friend who wanted to sell 500 bitcoins for $500. Rob was initially skeptical, but after seeing Bitcoin's price rise to $1,000 in 2013 and then $5,000 in 2017, he decided to start investing. He went through cycles of gains and losses but ultimately decided to keep investing through dollar-cost averaging.

Building Digital Asset News

In 2019, as Rob's friends and family grew tired of him talking about Bitcoin, he decided to start the Digital Asset News YouTube channel to share his insights with a wider audience. The channel has now grown to over 350,000 subscribers, with Rob and his team using a system to research, curate, and present daily crypto news and analysis.

Investment Principles and Strategies

Rob discusses his key investment principles. My favorite was #5. Take profits along the way. He also talks about diversifying across different asset classes like real estate and small businesses.

Building a Productive Routine and Lifestyle

Rob shares how he has structured his life and daily routine to maximize his time and minimize stress. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity and removing unnecessary burdens, rather than constantly adding more possessions or obligations. Rob's morning routine of walking the dogs, drinking coffee, and working out helps him prepare for the day's tasks.

Recommendations

Rob recommends the book "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius and the writings of Ryan Holiday as great resources for developing a stoic, systematic approach to life and leadership. He also invites the listener to check out the Digital Asset News YouTube channel for more of his insights on crypto and investing.

You can learn more about Rob Wolff over at Digital Asset News. You can also connect with him on Twitter/X.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Importance of strategy

Simone and Karl discuss why strategizing is often difficult for busy professionals who are focused on solving immediate problems and delivering results. They emphasize the need to periodically "pull your head out of the water" to assess if you're swimming in the right direction at the right pace.

2. The 90-day strategy sprint framework

Simone explains the 90-day strategy sprint program used at Strategy Sprints, which focuses on incrementally improving 3 key metrics over 3 months to effectively double revenue: pricing power, win rate, and sales velocity. The process involves weekly strategy and implementation sprints, with a dashboard to track progress.

3. Embracing failure and learning

Simone and Karl discuss the importance of embracing failure and using it as a learning opportunity. They encourage teams to experiment, try new things, and report on their failures during the weekly review sessions, as this is how true innovation happens.

4. Maintaining momentum and focus

Simone describes two types of "business meditations" used at Strategy Sprints - the weekly 30-minute sprint review, and the 90-day focus card review when teams need to re-align on priorities. This helps maintain momentum while also providing space for reflection and course correction.

You can learn more about Simone Severino over at Strategy Sprints. You can also find him on LinkedIn. You can check out the his book Strategy Sprints on Amazon.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Therman's leadership journey and challenges

Therman shared that he has struggled with being intentional about his leadership, as he has naturally fallen into leadership roles but finds it challenging to directly manage and hold people accountable. He discussed how he is more comfortable providing advice and guidance when disconnected from the outcome, versus when he has a vested interest in the results as a business owner.

2. Documenting processes, values, and communication norms

Karl suggested that Therman document his leadership approach, including standard operating procedures, core values, and communication norms. This would help new hires understand Therman's expectations and style, rather than relying solely on verbal guidance. They discussed the importance of balancing prescriptive processes with flexibility to allow for creativity and problem-solving.

3. Overcoming distractions and maintaining focus 

Therman shared that he struggles with maintaining focus and feeling like he's not doing enough, even when he's accomplished his goals for the day. He discussed strategies like setting stretch goals, celebrating small wins, and using checklists or Pomodoro techniques to stay on track.

4. Gratitude and self-reflection

Karl emphasized the importance of gratitude and regularly reflecting on what's going well, rather than constantly focusing on what could be improved. They discussed how this mindset shift can help leaders avoid burnout and maintain a positive, growth-oriented perspective.

You can learn more about Therman Trotman over at The Share Point Helpdesk. You can also connect with Therman over on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the inter

Highlights from the interview:

1. Balancing vision and implementation 

Austin shares how his company adopted the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to help balance his visionary tendencies with the need for structured implementation. He explains the importance of repeatedly communicating the company's vision and goals to ensure alignment and buy-in from the team.

2. Managing underperforming employees 

Austin discusses the cultural shifts and challenges that came with implementing EOS, including having to part ways with some employees who were not aligned with the new systems and processes. He outlines his approach of providing clear feedback and opportunities for improvement before making difficult personnel decisions.

3. Establishing standards for client relationships 

Austin describes his company's "3 P's" framework for evaluating potential clients - people, product, and performance. He explains how this helps them ensure a good fit and set appropriate expectations before engaging in a client relationship.

4. Embracing mistakes and driving continuous improvement 

Austin emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where people feel comfortable admitting and taking ownership of mistakes. He shares his "I am the problem, I am the solution" core value, which empowers employees to identify issues and propose solutions.

5. Lessons from mentors and personal growth 

Austin reflects on the positive influence of his father's approach to parenting and problem-solving, and how he has applied those lessons to leading his company. He also discusses the importance of self-awareness and managing one's inner critic to maintain a growth mindset.

You can learn more about Austin LaRoche over at ATAK Interactive. You can also connect with him over on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Core Values and Systems

Dave discusses the three core values that have guided his podcast from the beginning: 1) Ensuring the content is useful for leaders, 2) Maintaining consistency by publishing new episodes weekly, and 3) Prioritizing high-quality audio. These values have helped him make tough decisions, like turning down interview requests that don't align with what's most helpful for his audience.

2. Building an Engaged Community

Dave explains his approach to building an engaged community, focusing on a smaller group of Coaching for Leaders Pro members rather than trying to grow a massive following. He values depth of relationships over breadth, and has learned from mistakes like trying to provide too much long-form content that didn't resonate.

3. Lessons from a Mentor

Dave shares stories about a former manager named Rhonda Kurtz, who taught him the importance of setting high standards for excellence and leading by example. These lessons around valuing quality and integrity have stuck with Dave and continue to shape his approach to leadership.

4. Continuous Improvement

Dave discusses a current challenge of adjusting the length of his live events based on feedback from his community. He emphasizes the importance of being open to feedback, acknowledging blind spots, and iterating on processes to better serve his audience, even when it means making difficult decisions.

You can learn more about Dave Stachowiak over at the Coaching for Leaders podcast. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Here are the highlights from the interview:

Work-from-home challenges and solutions

We discuss the challenges of working remotely, including the lack of in-person collaboration and the need to balance work and family responsibilities. Thom shares how he has created systems to stay productive and connected, such as delegating tasks to his team and using tools like TextExpander to streamline communication.

Leveraging AI to improve productivity

Thom and Karl explore how AI, specifically tools like ChatGPT, to help leaders and entrepreneurs become more efficient and effective. They discuss strategies for prompting AI to provide tailored solutions, such as asking specific questions one at a time and providing context, rather than just requesting a broad solution.

Thom's background and work-from-home dad initiative

Thom introduces his background as a former teacher and current social media and YouTube strategist at ConvertKit. He also discusses his side project, "Work from Home Dads", which aims to help fathers who work remotely be more productive and present with their families.

Cultivating a lifelong learning mindset

Thom shares how he has developed a passion for continuous learning, drawing inspiration from his mother's example and the teachings of podcasters like Jordan Harbinger. He emphasizes the importance of bringing your passion with you, rather than just chasing your "dream job".

Systematic networking and relationship building

Thom describes a system he has implemented for maintaining relationships and networking, inspired by Jordan Harbinger's "Six Minute Networking" approach. This involves regularly reaching out to contacts, logging interactions, and prioritizing those he hasn't connected with in a while.

You can learn more about Thom Gibson over at Work From Home Dads. You can also connect with him over on LinkedIn and Twitter.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Reflecting on storytelling and narrative

Sean shares his background as a writer, noting how his wife encouraged him to start writing and how he discovered the power of storytelling. He discusses the importance of narratives, how they shape our experiences, and how being intentional about the stories we tell ourselves and others can lead to better outcomes.

Applying storytelling to business and leadership

We explore how effective storytelling can be leveraged in business and leadership contexts. They discuss the importance of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with and empower your audience, rather than making yourself the hero. They also touch on the dangers of performative vulnerability or shallow stories.

Niching down in business to capture attention

When you niche down in your business you are able to capture people’s attention. If you write emails and copy on your site that is geared toward everyone you don’t gather anyone’s attention. In this interview he talks about his story telling framework that helps you create content for your niche audience.

Systematizing storytelling and capturing insights

Sean emphasizes the value of being intentional about collecting and cataloging the stories that arise in one's business and life. He suggests regularly reflecting on the "best stories" from a given week or period as a way to build up a robust narrative toolkit that can be applied to various situations.

You can learn more about Sean Platt over at Sterling and Stone. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. The shift towards proactive mental wellness

Cathy discusses how high-performing leaders are increasingly recognizing the need to prioritize their own mental and emotional wellbeing, rather than just pushing through challenges. She highlights the importance of tuning into feelings and bodily signals as feedback, and taking radical responsibility for one's growth and development.

2. Establishing daily practices and routines

Cathy shares her own morning routine of journaling and mantras as a way to start the day grounded and focused on abundance. She emphasizes the need for leaders to experiment and find the practices that work best for them individually, rather than trying to fit a one-size-fits-all mold.

3. Embracing feedback and blind spots

Cathy discusses the value of having trusted advisors and loved ones who are willing to provide honest, constructive feedback - even if it's uncomfortable. She encourages leaders to actively seek out this input as a way to identify and address their blind spots.

4. Balancing professional and personal priorities

Cathy shares a personal example of prioritizing time with her son over a high-level business meeting, and how this decision was ultimately respected and appreciated by her colleagues. She emphasizes the importance of leaders honoring their whole selves, including their family and personal commitments.

5. Recommended resources and final thoughts

Cathy recommends the book "The Top Five Regrets of the Dying" as a powerful reflection on living a fulfilling life. She also shares her own journey of growth and self-discovery, and encourages leaders to embrace their own unique paths and not be afraid to be vulnerable.

You can learn more about Cathy over at cathydomoney.com. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Systematic Leader website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Maria kicks off the discussion by expressing her excitement to have Karl on the show, highlighting his expertise in developing SOPs that save time and money for small business owners. Karl’s approach involves examining current processes, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and designing simple yet effective SOPs for improved outcomes. This methodology not only benefits small businesses but also has significant applications in corporate settings.

The conversation then pivots to the essence of good habits and structures in both personal and business realms. Karl emphasizes that while the initial perception might be that such systems are rigid, they are essential for consistency and success. He draws an analogy between maintaining healthy habits like exercise and diet and implementing effective business processes. Both require consistency and structure to avoid fluctuations and setbacks.

Maria is curious about the journey that led Karl to create SOP Guy. Karl shares his story of evolving from running a consulting company called Work Happy Now to eventually finding his niche in SOPs. He touches on his diverse background, with his father's German precision and his mother’s Icelandic creativity, which has influenced his approach to systems and processes.

One of the key takeaways from Karl’s methodology is the concept of creating a one-page document for new employees. This document outlines strengths, communication preferences, and support expectations, significantly accelerating the onboarding process and fostering better relationships from the start. This simple yet powerful tool eliminates the awkward initial phase of understanding a new manager’s preferences and expectations, thus reducing friction and enhancing productivity.

Karl also discusses the importance of continuous improvement, a principle inspired by Toyota’s Kaizen philosophy. He stresses that systems and processes should always be in development to prevent plateauing. By setting a standard and continuously seeking ways to raise the bar, businesses can maintain engagement and drive better results.

Maria underscores the alignment between their work philosophies, particularly around the importance of systems in achieving goals. They reference "Atomic Habits" by James Clear, highlighting how systems and processes are foundational to turning goals into reality. Karl expands on this by explaining that creating SOPs helps in setting clear expectations and providing the necessary guardrails for creativity and productivity.

Towards the end of the episode, they discuss the practical application of these principles in mitigating friction within teams. Karl suggests creating a roadmap for improvement, focusing on high-impact, easily implementable changes. By starting with the most pressing issues and gradually addressing them, businesses can see significant improvements without feeling overwhelmed.

Maria concludes by encouraging listeners to apply these concepts not just in their professional lives but also in their personal lives. Creating SOPs for personal routines can lead to better organization, more time for important activities, and overall improved well-being.

Listeners interested in further exploring Karl’s work can visit sopguy.com for more resources, including a friction assessment tool. Karl’s book, "Bring Gratitude," is available on Amazon, offering insights into how gratitude can transform personal and professional lives. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their business processes and achieve greater efficiency and success.

1. Simple CRM Philosophies

Adrienne discusses three key CRM philosophies: 1) CRM is about the process, not just the tool; 2) CRM is about keeping the door open with clients, not just opening it; and 3) CRM is especially important for non-sales people who only sell part-time, as it helps them stay organized.

2. Effective Follow-Up Strategies

Adrienne shares two powerful follow-up techniques: 1) "Dripping" - doing a small amount of follow-up consistently (e.g. 2 contacts per day), which compounds over time; and 2) "Batching" - doing larger bursts of follow-up outreach (e.g. 20-30 emails) to maximize the chances of a sale.

3. CRM Cheat Sheet for Beginners

Adrienne provides a simple CRM "cheat sheet" for those just getting started: 1) Maintain a contact database, 2) Track active sales campaigns, 3) Prioritize open opportunities, and 4) Set reminders and follow-up tasks.

4. The Power of the 24-Hour Rule

Adrienne explains the "24-hour rule" - the idea that processing information and taking action within 24 hours of a client interaction is crucial, as our memory and connection to the details fades quickly over time. This is a key principle for effective CRM.

5. Recap and Next Steps

Adrienne and Karl summarize the key takeaways from their discussion on simplified CRM strategies, noting that the simple approaches they covered can be highly impactful, even for more complex businesses. They discuss plans to potentially turn the conversation into a podcast.

You can learn more about Adrienne Bellehumeur at Bellehumeur Company or on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Leadership principles and frameworks

Dennis shared frameworks for leadership like knowing what comes next, importance of tasks, and utilizing available resources. Effective leadership is about performance, not position.

2. Developing leaders through systems and processes

Dennis explained his tell-show-do system for training others through demonstration and practice. Regular check-ins and encouragement build competence and confidence over 90 days.

3. Building confidence through competence

Trainees learn by teaching, deepening their skills and replacing Dennis. Continuous growth happens through challenging roles like training others.

4. Transitioning to a new phase of work

At 74, Dennis launched Maximize You to share his experience developing leaders worldwide. Marketing himself is challenging without previous support systems. He hired coaches to refine his processes.

5. Assumptions that enable leadership

Dennis assumes people do what makes sense to them and want to grow, make a difference and avoid failure. By focusing on others' potential, one can accomplish more than believed possible through encouragement.

You can learn more about Maria Maldonado Smith over at MMS Consulting. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Prioritizing goals through self-reflection

Maria stresses regularly reflecting on true desires to avoid distraction, focusing inward to understand motivations before outward actions. How to communicate with people so they meet us where we are and accept us.

2. Reducing things down to make them manageable

Leaders often struggle to take action on the right things because they are overwhelmed.In this section you’ll learn how you can break things down to smaller chunks so they are manageable. You can make improvements by focusing on the things that matter and making small adjustments as you get feedback from the results.

3. Developing others through understanding motivations

It’s important to set standards for leadership and how people need to meet those standards before they are fired. Understanding each person's motivations beyond work, like family needs, informed Maria's leadership style shift to meet people as individuals through listening and notes.

4. The importance of visualization in goal achievement

Maria explains how daily visualization of goals through personal imagery supports focus and reminds us of our priorities, activating brain areas for motivation and driving us forward.

5. Rapid fire questions

She shares who one of her favorite leaders was in her career and what she learned from him. She also shares her most shared book, favorite podcast and most adored toy as a little girl.

You can learn more about Maria Maldonado Smith over at MMS Consulting. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Systematic Leader podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

1. Leadership challenges and solutions

Lucy discusses an experience when she struggled as a leader and realized she needed to take action. She then shares how communicating context and being transparent with teams helps overcome challenges even if all members don't fully agree.

It's not about getting everyone to buy in, but about explaining the why, which helps people get on board even if they aren’t in full agreement with the decision.

2. Communication strategies for leaders

Weekly emails from Theresa, Lucy's mentor, helped teams feel connected by sharing wins across departments with a personal touch, teaching the importance of communication style and frequency for engaged followership.

3. Decision-making frameworks for leaders

Considering diverse perspectives helps mitigate blindspots, though not all will fully agree; transparency in drivers and vision aids understanding to get buy-in even from dissenters. Experimenting also helps us learn from inevitable mistakes.

4. Importance of diverse perspectives for leaders

Surrounding oneself with differing thinkers offsets weaknesses and prevents echo chambers, though introverts may need reminders to broaden networks; regular self-reflection further enhances awareness of blind spots.

5. Building self-awareness as a leader

Journaling daily wins and areas for improvement plants seeds for growth, as does clarifying values to make choices aligning with long-term vision. Coaching also aids in recognizing habitual thought patterns.

6. Experimenting and learning from mistakes

Viewing attempts as experiments shifts mindsets from failure to learning, allowing for small tests before committing; even costly errors become growth accelerators when met with self-forgiveness and understanding of ego-stories.

7. Top Recommendations

Learn what books Lucy likes to share with friends and colleagues.

Learn more about Lucy Rowell on the Impactful Authenticity website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Agile methodologies and continuous improvement

Jim explained how agile principles of prioritizing value over process and delivering work iteratively helped transform how he builds organizations. Continuous improvement is key to reviewing whether the work remains optimally directed.

2. Tracking value over activity and delivering early

Jim argued for focusing on outcomes, not outputs, by delivering work incrementally and constantly validating its value. This prevents wasting months on potentially misguided work. Small, frequent deliveries also make course corrections easier.

3. Communication challenges and building trust

Communication difficulties often arise between organizational silos. Jim advocated for regular, informal check-ins to foster understanding and connection across teams. An open-door policy encourages addressing issues proactively.

4. Leadership lessons from mentors

Key mentors taught Jim sales, introduced agile practices, and how to prioritize outcomes. Adopting new strategies requires patience and educating skeptical colleagues over reprimanding them. Learning happens gradually when people feel heard.

5. Learning from mistakes and improving processes

Jim admitted to botching a client deal due to overreliance on experience over process. He now has stricter onboarding procedures to catch funding issues earlier. Success stems from acknowledging errors to continuously enhance one's work.

You can learn more about Jim Stevenson over at Founder and CEO of Bletchley Group. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Overcoming obstacles through feedback

John details how seeking constant feedback from his mentor helped him improve, though ego can get in the way of receiving criticism. Regular reviews are key to growth.

2. Storytelling in pitch decks

John explains the importance of establishing an emotional connection by addressing a real problem before introducing solutions. Conflict draws people in, as no one wants to hear about perfect lives.

3. Implementing systems for improvement

Karl stresses implementing review processes to catch issues before losing clients. Systems are needed to dissect problems and make informed decisions, not just try different strategies. Honest self-examination is paramount.

4. Cultivating a growth mindset

John pushed past comfort zones by seeking difficult roles outside his core strengths. Manifesting a vision 20% beyond current reality ensures continuous growth. Forcing functions like failures spur change.

5. Finding discipline through forcing functions

John's willingness to take career risks led to compressed learning and rapid growth. Aiming high and accepting discomfort ensures one exceeds expectations through discipline and passion for challenging oneself.

You can learn more about John over at Deckability. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Work-life balance and mental health benefits

Callum discussed the changing workplace in light of the pandemic, with companies now offering better mental health benefits but still expecting high availability from employees. He explains why he thinks these perks aren’t going away any time soon.

2. Measuring success and setting expectations

Callum advised setting clear metrics for evaluating decisions to avoid biased assessments, using coaching as an example where expectations like profits must be set upfront.

3. Taking breaks to avoid burnout

Callum recommended scheduling breaks like exercise classes to reset, while Karl advocated disconnecting outdoors; both aim to prevent overload and its consequences like poor health. They also discuss the importance of blocking your calendar to focus on taking care of yourself.

4. Self-reflection and decision-making frameworks

Callum stressed knowing one's self-critique tendencies to craft useful journaling, while Karl valued reflection's role in connecting with others and considering different views. A key takeaway from this part of the interview is why successful people journal and what framework they use to grow their skills.

5. Creating autonomy while avoiding fear of failure

Callum noted the need to clarify expectations and leeway to feel confident in decisions and not fear quick removal, important for developing culture. It’s important to have these difficult conversations so everyone is on the same page.

6. Long-term vision and job security concerns

Callum suggested communicating a multi-year strategic direction to give stability amid the whiplash of the past years in the labor market and economy. It’s about understanding your standard for success.

7. Recommendations

Callum recommended Agassi's autobiography to help illustrate the importance of finding passion in life, and they thanked each other for the insightful discussion on leading well.

You can learn more about Cal over at the column On the Clock (Wall Street Journal link). You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

1. Quarterly planning and personal retreat process

Mike details his quarterly planning process involving personal retreats, where he reviews values, intentions and systems. This clarity guides weekly and daily planning to optimize focus on high-impact work.

He also explains why he doesn’t create yearly goals and why they often fail for most people.

2. Weekly and daily planning

Mike translates quarterly intentions into weekly plans by considering calendar events and top tasks. He then plans specific daily tasks while maintaining flexibility for changes. This process minimizes stress from an overwhelming to-do list.

3. Motivation, goals vs intentions, and living in the game

Mike explains how goals often demotivate through failure or a perceived lack of progress. Intentions anchored in purpose intrinsically motivate through small wins. Journaling helps appreciate growth over time to stay motivated despite setbacks.

4. Systems thinking and continuous small improvements

Seeing one's life as an interdependent system explains current results. Small iterative improvements to optimize existing systems create lasting change better than overhauling everything. Journaling supports evaluating and tweaking systems.

5. Reflection, journaling and the importance of celebration

Mike's personal retreat includes reflecting on accomplishments, strengths and areas for improvement. Journaling what went well and celebrating progress boosts motivation.Self-awareness helps maintain intention-driven systems for long-term success.

He also talks about creating a life-theme and using that to help guide his decisions so he is focused on the important things in his career and life.

6. Developing a growth mindset and intrinsic motivation

Finding purpose beyond goals and anchoring intentions in core values intrinsically motivates perseverance. Systems already in place optimize small improvements when motivation is high. Self-reflection helps maintain a learning mindset for continuous progress.

He also explains why happy people are very productive. This was one of my favorite parts of our conversation.

You can learn more about Mike over at Mike Schmitz and Faith Based Productivity. He is a co-host of a podcast called Focused (Apple Podcast Link). You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview: 

1. Leadership lessons from past experiences 

Chrisa tells a story about a leader who advocated for her potential despite limits, shaping her empathy and rapport-focus.

Lessons stick from those who invest in our growth.

She also explains the importance of learning how to tune into her gut to help her make decisions.

2. Having difficult conversations to repair relationships

She outlined tuning into ego, framing issues respectfully, and resolving conflicts through new understanding, not just fixes. True repair demands flexibility.

When we are unhappy with ourselves we often treat other people poorly. It’s this self-awareness that helps us create change.

3. Connecting employees to a company vision

Celebrating wins alongside driving progress fosters belonging for those enabling visions. Leaders must see tasks' impacts through others' eyes to motivate long-term.

Putting processes in place that helps the employee thrive in their role.

4. Celebrating wins to motivate teams

Drivers focus on doing more, not less. Strategic celebration of achievements strengthens why work matters for those making visions reality. Appreciation renews purpose.

It’s learning how to be intentional with where your company is putting it’s focus so you are getting great results in the right areas.

5. Current struggles and areas of focus

Chrisa juggled consultancy verticals yet leaned towards fractional COO work for its cultural impacts. Self-awareness requires applying advice despite preferences.

You can learn more about Chrisa Zindros Boyce over at her website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

I hope your ready to grow your leadership skills with frameworks that you can apply in your business and career today to be a better leader.

1. Core values and leadership qualities

Meredith discussed developing teamwork and relationships through sports from a young age, informing her values of resilience and trust in guiding Gifted Travel Network through hardship.

2. Letting go and trusting intuition

We use the analogy of pulling back a bow arrow, requiring discipline to trust the process and results will come. We can get caught in perfectionism if we aren’t careful. She talks about how you can let go, so you can implement the thing, learn from it and improve it for the next iteration.

3. Navigating challenges through mindset

Meredith used the pandemic's travel industry setback as an example of reframing difficulties as opportunities for future growth using mindset tools like "Everything happens for you, not to you."

4. Growth and organizational change

With rapid growth, Meredith now tackles organizational structure changes through consulting, following frameworks like EOS to structure their larger team and processes for continued success. She talks about the importance of partnering with the right people and how letting go of pasts partnerships is important to make room for better partnerships.

5. Learning from other leaders

Meredith discussed gleaning mindset wisdom from influential figures like Tony Robbins, Richard Branson, and her relationship coach who taught her to build successful relationships by strengthening her relationship with herself first. It’s also important to admit when you need help and find someone to help you make improvements in your business to help it stay on track with your vision.

7. Key ingredients for business success

Meredith emphasized intuition, learned through practices like meditation and exercise, is key to achieving success by filtering inner noise and accessing inner guidance on navigating challenges and opportunities.

You can learn more about Meredith over at Gifted Travel Network. You can also connect with her on LInkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You’ll learn how your early life experiences can shape your career. Priya's experiences growing up as the only person of color in her community led her to feel excluded. A kindergarten teacher helped her feel included, planting the seeds for Priya's work helping leaders foster inclusion.

Here are the main highlights from the interview:

1. Decision-making framework relies on self-belief

Priya relies on congruence between head, heart and gut when making decisions. She only moves forward if she is confident her team can recover from mistakes through learning and growing together.

We also talk about having different types of decision-makers around us to offset our weaknesses.

2. Mindset cultivation is a daily practice

Priya consciously cultivates mindset each morning like hygiene, focusing on impact and contribution goals based on her day's interactions. An open, willing body language reinforces her mindset.

You’ll also learn about how you can nurture your mindset so you make an impact in the world on your terms.

3. Diversity of perspectives prevents echo chambers

Priya reads widely and consults diverse experts to challenge assumptions. She coaches clients to understand perspectives opposed to their own for wiser decisions considering all angles.

I love the story that she shares about how her kindergarten teacher was so impactful in her life.

4. Frameworks provide structure but not answers

While frameworks structure Priya's work, some experiences defy categorization. She accepts uncertainty and that readiness comes at its own pace, guided more by curiosity than rigid structures.

5. Leaders set the tone for trying without fear of failure

By modeling vulnerability through owning mistakes, leaders show trying ideas is valued over perfection. Together, teams can review learnings openly to continuously improve through experimentation.

You can learn more about Priya over at The Roundtable Institute. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

Friction-Free business

This is the beauty of creating processes everyone understands and can reference if the leader isn’t around will help the company run more smoothly.

Making time to review your processes, document them, and begin making adjustments is how you can avoid process pitfalls in your business.

One of my favorite parts of working with a company is how they design their processes. I get to see under the hood of the company. If they document their systems, they often don’t have a system for reviewing and improving them.

Most business owners encounter friction in their productivity across several common areas. Identifying and addressing these areas can significantly enhance operational efficiency and overall business performance.

Scientist Mindset

Adopting a scientist mindset, like Thomas Edison, in business opens up a world of strategic advantages, turning the unpredictable world of commerce into a series of experiments from which to learn and evolve. Here's why it's so crucial:

With a scientist's curiosity, businesses are more inclined to question the status quo and explore new ideas, leading to innovative products, services, and processes. This mindset encourages a culture of continuous improvement and creative problem-solving.

Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement, often inspired by philosophies like Kaizen, represents not just a strategy but a mindset that permeates the most successful businesses. It's a relentless pursuit of betterment in all facets of an organization, from processes and products to people and productivity. Here's why it stands out as a particularly powerful tool in the business realm:

By constantly seeking ways to streamline operations, businesses can reduce waste — whether that's time, resources, or effort — leading to increased efficiency. This ongoing process of refinement ensures that operations are lean and agile, capable of delivering maximum value with minimal waste.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Introductions and mindset discussion

In this interview you’ll learn about crafting mantras to help you become a better leader. TanyaCole-Lesnick as a psychotherapist-turned-coach focused on personal development. One of my favorite parts of this interview was when we discussed the power of mindset and self-awareness, with Tanya noting her sensitive nature helped her connect with clients after learning to embrace it.

Noticing patterns and making adjustments

Tanya outlines her process of journaling to track triggers, identify patterns, and trial adjustments to energetic clutter like overcommitting. Karl shares anger issues stem from his upbringing and the importance of noticing small triggers to curb explosive outbursts.

Learn the frameworks you can use to slow down and check in with yourself.

Developing a personal mantra

Tanya recommends clients craft mantras in their own language to stay grounded, like her reminders to check needs and wants when pressured. Karl found loving-kindness prayers calmed travel anxieties by focusing on positivity.

You’ll learn Tanya’s Mantra and she explains how you can create your own.

Finding one's true voice and priorities

Tanya stresses honoring intuition amid life's automation by regularly reflecting on values. Karl contemplates prioritizing purpose over tasks, allowing more self-care. Tanya embraces creative risks by trusting her vision's evolution.

Leading from the heart versus excellence

Tanya differentiates living from the heart in one's "genius zone" versus excelling in misaligned roles. Karl notes appreciation boosts morale equally to rewards by acknowledging growth.

You’ll learn the power of journaling and what Tanya recommends for you.

Resources for further learning and contact

Tanya recommends Glennon Doyle's book "Untamed". Karl offers a process assessment to Tanya and building their relationship.

You can learn more about Tanya over at her website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview

Developing self-awareness and catching limiting beliefs:

Mark discussed using pointed questions to reveal where people are limited, then shifting those beliefs through truthful self-reflection on underlying issues of shame, blame, guilt, and hate. Tuning into your thoughts and emotions so you can ask yourself better questions.

Case studies of individual and business transformations:

Mark shared how he transformed frustrated clients by addressing underlying emotions, including a business that grew 350% annually after the owner resolved childhood issues limiting him. It starts with noticing your thought patterns, and he explains how to work with them.

He also shares a case study from Stanford that showed how complaining damages your brain. It makes you dumber.

Transforming behaviors through body-led feeling shifts:

Mark shares how feeling future success through visualization and intention setting produces biochemical changes, allowing new behaviors versus conscious thinking, which is too slow.

Creating coachable moments. How you can turn difficult moments into growth. You’ll also learn how laughing at yourself is a powerful tool that will help you turn tough situations into positive experiences.

Shifting mindsets through future envisioning:

Mark stressed envisioning a better future self handling adversity automatically versus past failures. Remembering lessons from a successful future self reprograms the subconscious. He walks me through building the confidence to give a great presentation.

Addressing adversity through future focused problem-solving:

Roleplaying, Mark demonstrated curiosity, appreciation, and solution-finding over blame. He emphasized accessing wisdom from a future self who has already solved issues.You can learn more about Mark over at Encompass Life. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Here are the highlights from the interview:

Empathy and listening as leadership skills

Karen emphasizes that empathy through active listening is key to effective leadership. Leaders must understand employees' perspectives to inspire them and find solutions together.

She explains why she was afraid to ask for help and what she did to overcome this fear.

Inspiring employees through understanding

Karl stresses the need for leaders to understand why return-to-office pushback occurs, in order to flexibly find compromises like hybrid schedules. Karen agrees understanding contexts fosters inspiration over command-and-control. Understanding your values and how it matters to your employees.

Setting processes to reduce friction

Karen advocates documenting the work to justify flexible arrangements. Karen notes clarifying needs and communicating respectfully to tech support helps address challenges directly.

Finding flexibility through communication

Karen argues leaders should consider employees' values and happiness. With open communication and caring about people, leaders can inspire loyalty through flexibility and opportunity.

Developing empathy through self-awareness

Karen's first boss exemplified empathetic coaching through consistent check-ins. His non-judgmental support helped her improve and find a better role fit, prioritizing employees' wellbeing. It starts with improving your listening skills. An employee must feel heard to trust their boss/manager/leader.

Morning routines for intention and inspiration

Karen's daily routine of affirmations, oils, and talismans in bed and on waking prepares her mindset to feel accomplished and help others joyfully, with focused yet flexible intention-setting inspiring motivated action.

Recommended Book

Check out the book: One: The art and practice of conscious leadership, written by Lance Secretan

You can learn more about Karen over at Karen Stultz. You can also connect with Karen over on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the Interview

1. Thought leadership and building trust with audiences

Susan explained how research shows audiences want thought leaders addressing new, helpful perspectives from those they trust, advising focusing on problems audiences face rather than self-promotion.

1. Developing a clear niche and problem-solving focus

Susan stressed starting with the problems a niche solves before defining characteristics, advising focusing communication on problems while expanding offerings to problems on clients' journeys. 

Focusing on the problem that they are struggling with. They will listen to you because they want to learn more.

1. Being relentlessly helpful through consistent generosity

Susan defined being relentlessly helpful as constantly asking "how else can I help?" within business parameters, advising generosity builds trust and differentiation for leaders, employees, and clients.

1. Establishing organizational vision, values, and goals

Susan shared that regularly revisiting goals with teams keep leaders accountable to stakeholders, advising transparency of motivations builds employee commitment to shared missions over profits. She explains that this isn’t easy to do, but very important to keep everyone inspired to do great work.

1. Showing gratitude for those who help us grow

Susan thanked past leader Jay Baer for energizing their work through humor and fearlessness, advising gratitude routines remind people of leaders' positive influences and build connections.

1. Favorite Book

Check out Die Empty: Unleash your best work everyday (Amazon link).

You can learn more about Susan over at Audience Audit. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Here are the top highlights from the interview:

Building relationships through communication

Christopher stresses open communication to build understanding between opposing groups. Making assumptions breeds conflict, while empathy opens minds. Leaders must facilitate dialogue to resolve issues and strengthen bonds.

Practicing gratitude and self-care

Christopher shares daily practices like gratitude journals and self-reflection to maintain well-being. Leaders must recharge through mindfulness and positivity to avoid burnout while energizing their people. You’ll learn about the “Fantastic Five” framework that will help ground you in what matters. We can shift what we put into the system so we can get better output.

Mental diet and emotional state

Christopher notes the impact of one's mental intake on their state, advising leaders to consciously curate healthy inputs. Social factoring and reframing experiences as temporary helps objectively address issues.

Creating structure and white space

Christopher emphasizes scheduling recovery periods to stay centered. Leaders must involve their team in planning sustainable routines with clear responsibilities and feedback loops to optimize collaboration.

Rapid fire questions

Learn Christopher’s favorite tip for leaders to help people be more empathetic. One cool tip is to help people transition into a meeting. He also shares his favorite book that he most recommends to his friends.

You can learn more about Christopher over at his website Beyond Thank You. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the show

Kendra shared her background in finance and how she transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurship by helping struggling small business owners improve their financial management.

1. Financial review process

Kendra outlined her process for regular financial reviews, emphasizing the importance of weekly "money dates" to build familiarity and confidence with one's financial situation.

2. Growth decisions and personal priorities

Kendra explained weighing whether to grow her business or stay small based on prioritizing family plans over expansion. She stressed aligning business decisions with personal goals and lifestyle.

3. Team management through structure and communication

Kendra cited establishing clear Standard Operating Procedures and communication as key to empowering her productive, hardworking team to function smoothly with minimal interruptions.

4. Fears around emerging technologies

While concerned about automation, Kendra focused on strengthening personal relationships with clients, knowing technology cannot replace human understanding and care.

You can learn more about Kendra James Anderson over at Finance Femme. You can also connect with her on Instagram and LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Key highlights include:

1. Charles Woodin's Leadership at Geekdom 

Woodin discussed Geekdom’s shift in focus towards launching startups and detailed the process of establishing a new podcast studio.

2. Problem-Solving as a Superpower

Woodin described his natural inclination towards problem-solving, a trait he identified from childhood, as his key strength.

3. Incorporating Diverse Inputs for Decision Making

He emphasized the importance of seeking multiple perspectives to make informed decisions and how forming a board helped him become a better leader.

4. The Value of Adaptability in Business

Woodin shared insights on adapting to changes, such as moving Geekdom’s podcast studio to a new location and transitioning to different business frameworks like Six Levers.

5. Achieving Goals through Team Understanding

A significant part of the discussion revolved around setting realistic goals, understanding team dynamics, and ensuring everyone is aligned with the organization's mission.

6. Effective Communication Strategies

Woodin stressed the importance of clear communication, shared vocabulary, and regular check-ins to keep the team aligned with the company’s goals.

7 Coaching and Accountability

The conversation touched upon coaching techniques, understanding employees' motivations, and holding them accountable in a supportive manner.

8. Importance of Self-Awareness and Feedback

Woodin highlighted the need for self-awareness in leadership and the value of external feedback in assessing one’s performance.

9. Book Recommendation

Woodin recommended “The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz for its practical insights into business and leadership.

10. Future Collaborations and Workshops

The interview concluded with discussions about potential collaborations and workshops, particularly in process design and efficiency improvement.

Throughout the interview, Woodin shared practical advice and personal experiences, reflecting on his approach to leadership, the importance of adaptability in business, and the value of a problem-solving mindset.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Key Takeaways

• We discuss "what's the cost of not listening?" early in the interview to draw people in.
• Listen with your whole body - drink water, play music etc. to ground yourself before meetings.
• Ask for feedback subtly by asking "what's one thing you'd change about this meeting?" rather than directly.

Topics:

Oscar's journey to deep listening

• As a teenager, Oscar's protruding jaw made him self-conscious so he learned to ask good questions and listen to avoid drawing attention to himself.
• Playing card games with diverse nationalities, Oscar learned to read body language and non-verbal cues since they spoke other languages.
• A pivotal moment was when his Microsoft VP told him he could "change the world" if he could code how to listen well.

Productive vs unproductive ego

• Ego can be useful to protect us but unproductive when trying to dominate others.
• Leaders should ask if their ego is being productive or not in conversations.
• Productive ego invites perspectives from whole group before speaking again.

Whole body listening

• Listen with your whole body by grounding yourself before meetings (drink water, play music etc.)
• As host, don't start meetings on the hour - give a 5 minute buffer for people to transition.
• Do walking 1-on-1 meetings to fully tune in.

Leaning into emotional conversations

• Don't run from emotional conversations - ask "when did you form this perspective?" to dig deeper.
• Silence draws out truth; pauses are okay and even powerful.

Seeking feedback as a leader

• Don't directly ask for feedback from low-trust relationships.
• Subtly ask "what's one thing you'd change?" or "how would you summarize this meeting?"

You can learn more about Oscar over at his website, Oscar Trimboli. You can also take the Listening Quiz to learn about how you can improve your listening skills. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. You can also check out his book, How to Listen (Amazon Link).

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

• Tim’s passion for creativity.
• Understanding the challenges that you need to overcome to reach your goals.
• Setting the standards for our work.
• The power of the lean startup framework.
• The importance of experimentation in our business.
• Utilizing your natural skills so you grow your career with purpose.
• Leveraging persistence in your career.
• How to work with your inner voice so you tackle the hard projects that grow your business.
• Understanding what a business's problems are.
• The framework that he teaches people to solve problems.
• How Tim co-designs a project for a client.
• Utilizing strategic suggestions.
• Taking an active leadership role as a freelancer.
• The exercise he used to figure out his strengths and passions so he could do work he was good at and he loved.
• What routines that help him keep moving forward when he feels stuck.
• Using Pareto’s 80/20 rule to help you focus on the projects that move the needle.
• How to build a better relationship with employees and contractors by creating clear expectations of what you expect and why you expect it.
• How to deal with perfectionism.

You can learn more about Tim over at FreelanceGPS. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

Highlights in the interview:

• Josh ability to keep his focus on what matters.
• How to create content that provides maximum value.
• Why paying someone by the hour is bath for employers and employees.
• Keeping your messages as concise as possible.
• How to narrow down your business offerings.
• Focusing on who you want to work with, not what you want to do.
• Attracting your ideal people.
• We break down my niche.
• How to speak directly to the people you help in your business.
• Figuring out what you are good at and creating leverage in your career.
• How he looks at his past to help him understand himself better.
• Why it’s important to just do things so you can learn about your strengths and how to utilize them out in the business world.
• Taking action unlocks part of you that you wouldn’t have expected.
• Why it’s important to crossing things off your list that you don’t want to do in your business and career.
• The framework that helps you figure out how to do the things you love.
• Why assuming success is a framework
• Building confidence in yourself.
• Struggles are a part of business and why you should look at struggles as a puzzle.
• Iterating and improving the things that we work on.
• Working on not taking failures personally.
• Book he most shares “Tribes” by Seth Godin, podcast “Social Media Marketing Podcast”

You can learn more about Josh over at his website Josh Spector. Check out his amazing newsletter For the Interested. Here are his Skill Sessions if you want to check them out. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Dan got into software at a young age.
• How he dealt with undiagnosed ADHD in his career.
• The balance of perfection and good enough.
• How he looks at ADHD differently than most people.
• Adjusting his career to better utilize his strengths.
• How he got into meditation.
• How meditation and exercise helps him reduce stress and improve his mental state.
• Creating space to process your thoughts and emotions.
• Not getting caught up in our emotions so we make better decisions.
• Doing a better job of choosing our actions.
• Building awareness when making decisions.
• How meta meditation and prayer have a lot in common.
• Getting out of his own way and clearing out the inner noise.
• How our distractions can hold us back and what to do it.
• What we say “yes” to and “no” to on a daily, weekly, monthly basis and how we can learn from these decisions to make better future decisions.
• Framework to help with pricing a product.
• Understanding our relationship with money and how it helps us understand the value of products.
• Using frameworks that actually work in business.
• Clear views of product fit.
• Aligning the value we are creating with the customer.
• The value of different customer segments.
• Any process should be in service of a goal.
• Most recommended books for life, AI, and pricing.

You can learn more about Dan over at Product Tranquility. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• When he was a kid, he used to draw based on emotion instead of typical stick figures.
• Why you need this ingredient before you can inspire others.
• The difference between motivation and inspiration.
• Finding moments that spark us and how they are clues to our lives.
• Why learning how others perceived him helped guide his career choices.
• The value of journaling.
• How he journals to help his career.
• How do you say “Yes” to the right things and “No” to the wrong things.
• The weekly spark.
• How an hour every Sunday changed his life.
• Developing journal prompts to help him grow.
• Preparing yourself for success.
• Redesign your weekly processes so you reduce the issues that you struggle with.
• Take control of your calendar so you fill your bucket.
• Noticing your energy levels around your tasks and projects.
• How our ego gets in the way of improving our learning speed.
• Finding professional leverage to help you grow your career.
• Maximizing your daily processes.
• Doing more with less.
• How can we push outside our comfort zone to grow in areas that will help us make big strides on our lives.
• Understanding the “why” behind your need to improve a habit.

You can learn more about Tony Martignetti over at Inspired Purpose Partners. You can also connect with him on Linked.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why she was leading as a young kid.
• She knew what she wanted to do at a young age.
• Why you shouldn’t alway listen to your mentors.
• Why she looked at her career as a giant pie in her twenties.
• How she found opportunities in her career.
• Understanding what gives you energy as a leader.
• How she leveraged her personality to grow her career.
• Creating curriculum for businesses and how it led to her starting her business.
• Why leaders need to work on their empathy skills to help their employees succeed.
• Two sides to the balance sheet.
• The smarter leaders are, the better they are at the “what” stuff.
• The “how” is harder for smart people.
• How to balance the “what” and the “how” as a leader.
• Building awareness in leaders so they can hack their system.
• The question that helps leaders unlock their empathetic side.
• The beauty of leadership is that we have a lot of levers to use.
• Keeping our ego in check as a leader.
• What she struggles with in her business.
• Getting clearer on the vision on the company’s purpose.
• Picking a niche and being the “go to person” in that area.
• What a leader can practice to become a better leader.
• Why leadership is an inside out game.
• Make sure you are developing your culture so people understand where the company is headed.
• Understanding where you are weird and how to leverage this trait in your career.

You can learn more about Glain Roberts-McCabe over at Roundtable. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• The story that captures her origin story.
• She developed a thick hide so she was able to let things roll off her back.
• She was involved in rodeo and won national contests.
• Learning the patterns in her life has helped her understand better.
• Choosing difficult work vs making life difficult for yourself.
• Understanding the hard things help us grow.
• Why raising money for her biotech start-up is so hard for her.
• Why it’s important to count your wins and your losses.
• The importance of growing your self-awareness.
• Why she has a practice of connecting with her feelings.
• How she connects to her feelings.
• The subtle nuances of inner emotional language.
• Improving her communication as a CEO.
• Being the change that we want to see in the world.
• Why she was afraid to ask her doctor about a term that he used.
• Why making up answers when we feel like we should know the answer can hurt us.
• What the “Long Pause” is and how to use it.
• Why she named her business after a Goddess.
• The importance of creating a culture that encourages thoughtful communication.

You can learn more about Somer Baburek over at Hera Biotech. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Lloyed shares what really matters as you build a business and career.
• Why he chased the wrong things.
• Living from non-negotiables.
• Understanding what you can live without.
• What question do you need to ask yourself to get to the heart of what you want.
• The importance of living your values.
• When you write you manifest.
• Community is your currency.
• How to put yourself in a good environment.
• What core things should you be doing every single day.
• Why we are taking on too much and what to do instead.
• What job he took because he struggled in a particular area of life.
• Why you need to surround yourself with people that help you grow.
• How to leverage environmental triggers to help you build good habits.
• Why a nanny was more helpful to his marriage than taking a vacation.
• Short-term thinking vs long-term thinking.
• What it was like riding a bus on the highway of death.
• Four C’s that you need to be successful.

You can learn more about Lloyed Lobo over at his personal website. Check out his book From Grassroots to Greatness on Amazon. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Jesse did not get diagnosed with ADHD until later in life.
• When he was younger, he struggled with doing math as a kid even when he was good at it.
• Why his parents didn’t understand how his brain worked.
• Understanding how his brain worked and what motivated him.
• Getting tested for ADHD.
• Researching ADHD and what he discovered.
• What came out of his research.
• The 4 Cs system that he uses to help him complete a project.
• How he leverages novelty to help him get started and finish a task.
• Finding motivational leverage points that helped him finish his book.
• Malcolm in the Middle story about Did who struggles with ADHD.
• Finding the trigger that helps you focus back on what matters so you can complete your goal.
• How labeling his emotional regulation issue helped him be more conscious of his choices instead of letting anger take over.
• Using the “history reflection” framework to help him regulate his emotions.
• Getting back in the drivers seat with our emotions.
• Why so many people struggle with emotional literacy.
• Our body’s physical prediction model.
• Capturing the learnings from a project to one day share with others.

You can learn more about Jesse Anderson over at ADHD Jesse. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. Check out his new book Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD on Amazon.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why the accomplishments in his current career weren’t something he wanted to chase any longer.
• What spurred him to make a huge career change.
• Why he resigned from his tenured professor position.
• How his sadness played a role in making a career shift.
• Riding the burst of excitement in our careers.
• What is anticipatory grief?
• How a major spine injury forced him to shift his life drastically.
• Why he wouldn’t give the spinal injury experience back because of how much it taught him.
• How can we adjust our intentions so they are more powerful?
• Focusing on creating ROI (Ripples of Impact) in our careers.
• Creating a more caring and connected world.
• Seeing the opportunities in our struggles.
• Example: The downfall of hunting promotions.
• Digging deeper in why you want what you want.
• Getting clear on the outcomes that you want.
• BEING framework to help you make better decisions.
• Understanding what you value.
• How to notice disempowering beliefs so you can shift this outlook.
• Being more intentional with the language that we use so we empower ourselves.
• Why we don’t put enough time into the things that truly matter to us.
• Most shared book and favorite speaker.

You can learn more about Jonathan Marion over at Steps Along the Way. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why she always valued her inner truth.
• What happened when she got a job offer that didn’t align with her career vision.
• How she stays true to the vision of her career.
• How she feels when she has to make an important decision.
• Finding peace in your difficult decisions.
• How she tunes into her subconscious to help guide her.
• Finding truth in tough decisions.
• Understanding the direction you need to take and actually doing it are two separate things.
• Understanding the calm truth.
• Assessing what you’ll miss if you don’t take the risk.
• How to go after what you truly want.
• Understanding your life’s mission.
• Asking yourself, “How do I want to show up today?”
• Replenish your energy when you feel drained.
• The importance of doing small routines to help replenish your energy levels.
• Improving her processes so she can focus on her essential work.
• Create space to do the digging.
• The practice of understanding yourself takes time and regular routines.
• Turning off auto-pilot so we make conscious choices.
• Breaking out of your old way of being.
• Dealing with career burnout.
• What is a joy immersion?
• The four pillars that guide her life.
• Understanding the numbers that you need to take a career break.
• Most shared book and favorite podcast.

You can learn more about Katrina McGhee over at coaching website. You can also check out her 45 epic things you can do to take an epic break. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

Highlights from the interview:

• How she dealt with the passing of her grandfather and how it encouraged to go into succession planning.
• Why she become such a keen observer of the world around her.
• Her family’s lack of planning shaped how she viewed her career.
• How she avoided the negative patterns that she grew up witnessing.
• Breaking things down so you take action.
• Identifying what is in the shadows that is holding us back from taking action.
• Probability and impact matrix.
• Letting go of the tasks and projects that aren’t going to help us build our businesses.
• Making things actionable so you do them instead of procrastinating.
• The practice of ranking projects and tasks so we have a clear priority list.
• Avoidance is not a strategy. It is a crisis in waiting.
• Proactive planning in your business.
• Why aren’t we more proactive about your succession plan in our business?
• Why we are afraid to dream big.
• She discusses the fears we have around succession planning.
• She has had a lot of losses in her life and how it’s influenced her work in succession planning.
• Why she had the thought, “What if I died on this plane?” and how it changed her life.
• How Yoga helped her process her feelings.
• What it’s like to sit down with someone and talk about death.
• How a client dealt with a major fall from a horse and the mental health issues she had.
• The importance of being rooted in your why.
• Most shared book and favorite podcast. 

You can learn more about Julee Yokoyama over at Project C.Y.A. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn and Instagram. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What has helped him make hard decisions.
• Having a core set of principles to filter all your decisions through.
• Tightening feedback loops.
• Making more educated bets so you have a better chance of success.
• Working in a fast paced environment.
• Developing a front-line mindset to understand your customer.
• Fundamentally changing a successful business.
• Creating a test in a business to see if it would work.
• Learning from customer feedback to iterate on an idea in your business.
• Using SOPs in your business.
• Developing a vision for your business so you can make better decisions.
• Helping employees understanding the shift that Matthew and Pat were making in the company.
• Reinvesting back in the business.
• How to measure success in business.
• OKR framework.
• How to figure out what to focus on in business.
• Building a strong partnership in business.
• Why most entrepreneurs should pursue a partner.
• Making expectations clear between partners.

You can learn more about Matthew Gartland over at Smart Passive Income. You can also connect with him over at LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What made Darrell who he is today.
• He realized his superpower came from his past.
• How entrepreneurship first popped into his head.
• Stumbling on to ideas.
• Nike was built because of all the hardships.
• Strength comes from all the hardships that we’ve went through.
• An important mindset shift that helped jump-start his career.
• Why our past helps us form our strengths.
• Avoiding the default life.
• The power of reframing how we think about things.
• How he dealt with the pain of laying people off in his company.
• Creating buffers in business to help avoid future pitfalls.
• Clarifying the vision and mission of the company.
• How he dealt with a dream job that he was fired from.
• Framework: Taking a longer view of the whole process.
• Why his view of his business has changed from his 20’s into his 30’s.
• Journaling practice: Asking himself questions like, “Why is this so hard?”
• Just asking yourself the question is important. 
• The subconscious mind is very powerful, and how you can better utilize it.
• The courage of asking a question and allowing yourself not to know the answer.
• Seeking truth instead of comfort.
• The best leaders focus on doing this to become great leaders.
• Developing your empathy skill set.
• Creating practices that help you become a more mindful leader.
• How to measure your growth so you are heading in the right direction.
• We often forget the most important ways to grow.
• Using the leadership loop.
• Most shared book and most listened to podcast.

You can learn more about Darrell over at his website, Darrell Vesterfelt. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why his life started in college.
• He explains why he gave up on his dream to be a rockstar.
• Why he looks at his failure of not becoming a rockstar as a gift to his life.
• Asking yourself, “Are you demanding or attracting attention?”. Tim explains the difference.
• Finding new talents while going after his dream.
• Shifting to helping someone else with their dreams.
• What great leaders do that separates them from good leaders.
• Why he fell in love with the culture at Apple.
• Letting go of a dream and forming a new dream.
• The small choices that we make now add up to form our careers.
• Cultivating our ability to understand our inner voice.
• Apollo 11 story with Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins.
• What Michael Collins says about flying around the moon waiting to pick up Neil and Buzz from the moon and come back to earth.
• Understanding how we define success.
• How we subconsciously live other people’s definitions of success if we aren’t careful.
• Redefining our definition of success.
• The work that you need to do to see if you are living in integrity with internal consistency.
• Moving from a leading role to more of a supporting role.
• The best CEOs find ways to serve more people and not be served.
• Making the switch back into a lead role after being a servant leader for many years.
• Letting go of the pressure of being a leader.
• What is the secret society of success?
• The story of Lebron James and how he set others up for success.
• Why leaders think they give the appropriate amount of appreciation, but their employees don’t agree.
• Understanding why you want what you want.

You can learn more about Tim over at Build a Winning Team. You can also connect with him over at LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What story defines who he is and why he has always had a chip on his shoulder.
• How he built a company with over 150 employees.
• Expanding outside your comfort zone when building a business.
• Why he hires people who can push outside their comfort zone.
• How he views the success of 300,000 people using his app.
• Why we should be evolving ourselves.
• Why our evolution of ourselves should change every year or two.
• His emotional connection to doing right by his employees.
• Why he couldn’t retire after he sold his business.
• Why, down deep, he considers himself a lazy person. 
• How focusing on fulfillment changed how he looks at his life and career.
• Limiting beliefs hold you back if you aren’t aware of them.
• Learning new skills.
• How he stopped believing his own B.S.
• Why he learned from people wealthier than him.
• Why he looks at everything as an experiment. 
• What mental framework you can use to get started on something that is hard.
• The importance of continuous improvement in his business.
• How to set success goals.
• How he celebrates small wins.
• Why the next milestone won’t create lasting happiness.
• Personal psychology is half the battle when building a business.
• When he’s stuck, he sets up tripwires to help him get back on track.
• Why he needs somebody (accountability partner) to keep himself motivated.
• How he keeps track of his goals.
• Creating monthly goals in your business.
• Why optimizing habits and routines is so important to his success
• Focus on inputs to get the outputs right.
• If you have sloppy personal habits, you will probably have sloppy business habits.
• Creating multiple ways to measure something.
• Looking at your current life from you from five years ago.
• How he reframes the low points in his business.
• Combining the spiritual and the tactical in your business.
• What book and podcast he recommends to others.

You can learn more about Bryan over at GreenPal. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Brian’s dad got him into building websites.
• Tapping into a creative outlet.
• Why you don’t have to ask for permission to create something.
• Taking steps in the right direction.
• Stepping outside your comfort zone.
• Cultivating his fearlessness.
• Training yourself not to care what other people think.
• Using AI in your business.
• Reframing your mindset when using AI.
• Basics of Jobs to Be Done Framework.
• Allowing the fear to kick in often hurts our ability to make good decisions.
• Learning about growth mindset vs. fixed mindset and how it influences his decisions.
• We talk about how pessimism often hurts us more than helps us.
• Using critical thinking in our lives.
• Why the Jobs to Be Done framework is so powerful.
• Understanding the core reason why we want something helps us make better decisions.
• Learning the context of the customer.
• Most recommended fiction book, business book and podcast.

You can learn more about Brian over at his website Brian Rhea. You can also connect with Brian over at LinkedIn.

As always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What Barry’s first businesses were as a kid and young adult.
• He talks about how he survived school while being such a bad student.
• Creating a foundation of support when you are struggling.
• Why he focused on sales.
• Using his communication skills to keep moving things forward.
• Why anxiousness isn’t a bad feeling.
• What the voice inside his head was thinking when he felt anxious.
• Why he didn’t fit in with other kids.
• Learning how to study and how it helped him.
• Getting to the bottom of what people need by asking great questions.
• How to get comfortable when feeling uncomfortable.
• The importance of being persistent.
• Reviewing work and training others to improve.
• Finding gaps in our processes.
• What traits he looks in others when he hires an employee.
• How to encourage people to speak up.
• How he created SOPs that helped the whole company.
• Helping someone when they take on a new role.
• When an employee struggles, it’s often due to communication issues.
• Why explaining the purpose of a process is so important.
• Using the 80/20 rule to make better decisions.
• What can we do to outsource the tasks that someone else can do better than us.

You can learn more about Barry Coziahr over at Freetime Solutions. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Barrett explains how investing in his mental well being was so important to improving his career.
• How drinking played a major role in adjusting his path in life.
• Being surrounded by mentor figures who were willing to invest in him.
• Why we don’t feel worthy of leading others.
• Why stepping into leadership opportunities was so important to improving how he handled his life.
• Understanding the voice in our own heads so we can become more aware.
• Being curious about the people around us.
• Growing the positive perspective that helps you make better decisions.
• Making time to process the pain so you can move on.
• Getting to a place that helped him fully feel his past pain.
• How much tolerance do we need to grow our relationships?
• False expectations can turn into false assumptions.
• Working in between therapy sessions.
• Developing your empathy muscle.
• Helping people show up in life even when they are having a difficult time.
• Acknowledging and process things that went previously unacknowledged.
• How journaling helps you deal with your pain.
• The life-blood of company culture.
• Understanding what you should share with employees and what you should share with them.
• The myth of too much praise.
• Why leaders woefully under express gratitude.
• The three most powerful questions to build better relationships.

You can learn more about Barrett over at his website - Barrett Brooks. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Randi Shares why speaking your truth will lead you to the right place.
• Being in the moment during a conversation will help you get better outcomes.
• Understanding what is true for you.
• The shame of regret is a powerful tool to help you make better decisions.
• Why she managers her career in two year chunks.
• Building relationships that is about giving more than getting from others.
• How her inner voice was holding her back and what she did to overcome this issue.
• Why fear drives many of our decisions.
• The importance of checking in with yourself to make a proper plan.
• Digging into where you are at with your goal so you can make wiser decisions.
• Sometimes it’s about doing less stuff, so you can do the important things better.
• Thinking about where we want to be in our life.
• Taking a step back in your planning so you are noticing where you are making the biggest difference.
• Understanding the role that money plays in our lives.
• What is the most common career struggle.
• How to get out of our own way.
• Why rejection should not bother us as much as it does.
• How to make taking the risk easier next time.

You can learn more about Randi over at Randi Roberts Coaching. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Steven shares why he started his business.
• Why he doesn’t subscribe to “feel the fear and do it anyway” methodology.
• Being better after taking failure head on.
• How Bill Clinton recovered from a terrible speech four years before he become president.
• How to “Let It Out” so we can move forward.
• Dealing with our ego, so we build a better relationship with ourselves.
• What happened when he delivered a terrible workshop and how he grew from this rough experience.
• Focusing on the present to improve our future.
• Designing your future.
• Seeing what you want in 3D instead of just 2D so it’s more likely to happen.
• We are the product of the five people we surround ourselves with.
• Learning how to believe in yourself.
• Changing your inputs to get better output.
• Embracing concepts that can help teach you to grow.
• Why the blame game is a waste of time.
• Turning yourself into a magnet to attract the right people to you.
• Discovering what you love to do.
• Asking yourself questions so you continue to focus on what you love to do.
• How are you with criticism?
• Making corrections requires having people that will tell us the truth.
• What he did when he messed up an MSNBC interview.
• Finding the right method that works for you.
• You don’t want to put someone in a role just because they are good at it.
• Resources you can use to help you grow your business.

You can learn more about Steven over at Steven Gaffney’s website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Terry shares how he felt like he needed to climb the corporate ladder.
• Why he felt disconnected in his corporate roles.
• We dig into the fears of building a business.
• How do we deal with all the pressures of a business.
• Why a personal philosophy is so important to making decisions.
• Why asking yourself, “How do you want to be remembered?” can be a powerful question to help you make better decisions for your future self.
• How writing down the difficult things that you overcame in life can help you grow your career.
• The idea of frontloading our skills.
• How to focus on the little wins to help you improve your ability to get bigger wins.
• How Stoicism has influenced his life.
• Getting through the struggles and use it for growth.
• The tool of reframing difficult moments.
• Understanding other people so you don’t take rude behavior as personal attacks.
• How do deal the experience when someone wrongs you.
• Generating revenue that is aligned with the vision of your life.
• Dealing with death in his family.
• Building his confidence in his business.
• Why he doesn’t get nervous before he speaks to a group of people.
• How he is able to get over setbacks so quickly.
• Studying people’s works (writing, talks, etc.) so you get coaches at every level.
• Giving yourself the opportunity for success.

You can learn more about Terry Rice over at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn and check out his articles over at Entrepreneur website where he is a staff writer. He also had a podcast called Launch Your Business.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Megan shares her origin story.
• Why she wanted to help people with their focus.
• My son interrupts our podcast.
• Her passion for Mama CEOs.
• How the pandemic changed everything for her.
• Pesky inner voices that cloud our judgment.
• Shutting down her business and shifting her career.
• How she fosters her relationship with her inner voice.
• How her parents' expectations forged her personality.
• Dealing with imposter syndrome.
• Understanding the various slices that makes up our lives.
• Using the different seasons in our lives.
• Thinking in smaller chunks.
• “You don’t have to see the full staircase to take the first step.”
• How changing our schedules can help us accomplish our goals for a short amount of time.
• Limiting certain activities when we are doing important work.
• Saying “No” to important events that creates FOMO.
• Crafting goals that help you get to where you want to be.
• Creating an SOP that allows you to creat your operating systems for a specific period of time.
• Tips on getting a goal accomplished.
• The app she uses to track the time she uses doing each part of her business.
• How to make a “To Do” list that actually works.
• Why ranking our focus helps us learn about our focus and how to improve it.
• Giving yourself permission to do the things that might usually make you feel guilty.
• Most recommended book and podcast.

You can learn more about Megan over at Focus Sessions. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. Check out her book Focused on Amazon.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Adrienne shares how she got started in her current career.
• Why documenting her processes didn’t come easy to her.
• Why we learn best when teaching other people.
• Her documentation superpower saved how career.
• The reason we don’t remember things well after 24 hours goes by.
• Building the documentation habit so you improve your memory.
• The best way to document processes in a company.
• Developing the discipline to document your processes.
• Why we can’t live in a fast-paced world without making time for reflection.
• The brain knows how to process information.
• The need to see progress and why small wins matter so much.
• The five steps to powerful documentation.
• How to create documents that aren’t dry as toast.
• Leveraging documents.
• Why we are afraid to document our processes.
• Why writers aren’t afraid of deleting the first draft of their writing.
• Working on your own documentation in your company.
• Why templates are important to getting the most out of documentation.
• Improving client delivery.
• Use what you know.
• How to look for potential issues.
• How documentation should drive action.
• What to do within 24 hours of an important meeting.
• Check out her book - 24 Hour Rule.

You can learn more about Adrienne over at Bellehumeur Company. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. You can also check out her book the 24 Hour Rule (Amazong Link).

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Greg shares why he went back to finance when the pandemic crushed his business.
• Learning to appreciate what he had.
• Why he started a podcast.
• Leaping into entrepreneurship and how he tried to set himself up for success.
• The framework that helps him understand what he wants.
• Making uncomfortable choices because it helped him go after what he wanted.
• Money wasn’t the driving force behind his decisions.
• Why our egos can help us take on difficult tasks that we might otherwise avoid.
• You don’t appreciate your opportunities into you really get into it.
• Growing our self-awareness.
• When you are not afraid to talk to people about their jobs you can learn how to grow your own career.
• Getting good at pattern recognition, so you can make improvements that helps you grow your skills faster.
• Writing down something about your day to help you remember important parts of your life.
• Going back through your notes will help remind you of the things you did in your life and career.
• Not faking happiness and being someone you’re not.
• Being honest with yourself.
• Making lists can help you figure out what you really want.
• Are you genuinely enjoying your career?
• The power of self-reflection.
• What is our happiness scorecard?
• It’s hard not to doubt yourself.
• Accepting our strengths and weaknesses.
• Finding opportunities in a job change.

You can learn more about Greg Martin over at Lifetime at Work. You can listen to his podcast as well over at Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Here is the breakdown of what you’ll learn:

• Why I created the SOP Framework for Habit Change.
• Six main areas of your life that you can work on improving. (Health, Work/Career, Finance, Relationship, Personal growth, Hobbies.
• Compound interest of improving in important areas.
• The steps to the SOP Framework.
• Why we create the SOP for a 30 day timeframe.
• Why this framework helps you be more consistent with your actions.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Jay shares why he wanted to be good at sports and he never was really good.
• His internal motivation to be good at something.
• Why he only does things that he can be competitively great at.
• Committing to fewer things and extending his time horizon
• Building on top of his strengths.
• Saying “no” to things that don’t support his values.
• Reminders that help him say “no” to more things.
• Creating a feedback loop that helps you get to the heart of improving quickly.
• Alexander Technique to help you with self-awareness.
• What decisions he’s made that he struggles with.
• His relationship with food.
• Recognizing decisions that you are making or should make in your life.
• How he uses a reflection process to grow his business.
• What he does to keep himself accountable.
• Why he thinks in experiments and how it helps him to grow his business.
• The importance of celebrating wins and why it works so well.
• Why he likes the tagline of the show Survivor.
• He shares his values with us.
• Treasure maps over funnels.
• Working on understanding and letting go of his ego, so he can make better decisions.
• Favorite book that he shares with people, podcast that helps him see things from a different angle, and favorite toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Jay Clouse over at his Creator Science website. You can also check out his podcast, Creator Science.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Colleen explains why she is so stubborn.
• How she uses failure to grow.
• Widening our views.
• Work is about communication.
• Improving her listening skills so she builds better relationships.
• How she developed her visceral understanding of other people’s perspectives.
• Finding people that had different perspectives, so she could grow in different areas of her life.
• Why she likes to think of herself as a kind person.
• Why she asks herself, “How am I making things better?”
• The reason she stopped blogging.
• How she views the voice in herself.
• Her spiritual advisor advised her not to meditate because she was using it as a crutch.
• Where she feels most connected to God.
• Breaking down a bad decision.
• Her buying habits often occur because she is dealing with a common internal issue that she hasn’t processed.
• How she created systems so she doesn’t waste her money buying something to feel better.
• Self-awareness is vital to growth.
• How she processes a dear friend who passed from cancer.
• Asking herself tough questions to get to the heart of an issue.
• Looking at the small reactions and habits so they don’t turn in big issues.
• Getting honest about getting sick and being in pain.
• Importance of having difficult conversations.
• Letting the pain go.
• What she will miss when she passes away.

You can learn more about Colleen Wainwright over on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Kevin Monroe is the creator of the Grateful App. One of my favorite parts of this interview is the story of when Kevin was in the final interview for his dream job and was asked the deciding question and he knew he answered it wrong.

Highlights from the interview:

• Learn about why Kevin wanted to make the world a better place.
• The zig-zag path that has built his career.
• How he used his strengths to help him decide his career.
• Why he deep-dived into gratitude.
• What he did after he was fired from the job that he thought was his life’s calling.
• Why the end of his career turned into a new lease on life.
• We all have skills that are transferable to lots of jobs.
• Going from a career in clergy to a sales career with two young kids.
• The little voice inside of his when he made this big shift in his career.
• Why we can’t play not to lose.
• How to deal with indecision.
• How to navigate your career when you get off track.
• You have the ability to make your decisions right.
• Why there are no such thing as a right job for him.
• The importance of aligning your values with the company’s values.
• Why he decided not to accept his dream job.
• Using gratitude when you need it the most.
• Learn the triangle method to be more grateful.
• We often fear the silence.
• Gratitude questions to help you focus on the good things in your life.
• Microgratitude
• Kevin gives his phone number so you can call 

You can learn more about Kevin over at his website Kevin D. Monroe and The Grateful App. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

This recently happened to me at the Craft and Commerce conference. I was explaining how I help my clients dig into the things that gets them stuck and create systems to get better results. 

As I was explaining what I did for my clients he asked, “So you create SOPs (standard operating procedures) for people?” 

I smiled. 

“”Yes! That’s exactly what I do!”

I never thought to use that phrase. I was trying so hard to create my own brand I was missing the mark. 

Then I decided to use that phrase with someone else at a conference and she was like. 

“I help small business owners create SOP’s so they save time and money.

That’s exactly what I need!

Boom!

The branding shift changed how people saw me. 

Why didn’t I think of this sooner?

As you probably know I started to beat myself up. 

I asked myself…

Why didn’t I think of this sooner?

How could I be so stupid?

Why did it take me so…

Then my Dig to Fly practice questions kicked in. 

I shouldn’t expect myself to know exactly the best way to describe how I help others. 

These things take time.

Instead of wasting time I can look for opportunities. As I laid in my bed and looked at the white ceiling.

The opportunities are immense.

I can help a lot of struggling business owners and team managers create SOPs to help them save time and money.

Now I have a clear way to describe how I help people. This was a huge breakthrough for me. 

I feel like I’m floating right now. 

Before I sign off I want to thank you for all your support. Some of the content will be geared toward helping people develop processes so they can make better decisions faster. 

Once we have a process in place we can improve our habits. As we improve our habits we’ll have more time for the deeper work. 

Highlights from the interview:

• Learn about Jeanette’s big ambitions.
• What her biggest regret is in life.
• Building resilience in life so you can handle difficult situations.
• Understanding what you can control and what you can’t control.
• Why a cold plunge pool can help you be comfortable with the uncomfortable.
• The importance of controlling your breathing when you are stressed.
• How to have difficult conversations so they improve your relationships.
• Why timing is so important when having a difficult conversation.
• Self-awareness is key to having better conversations.
• Using Brené Brown's method to have more fruitful discussions.
• Understanding the stories that we are telling ourselves.
• Finding the patterns in our emotions so we can understand why we make the decisions that we do.
• Knowing that our memories aren’t perfect.
• How to process our feelings so we can move forward with more confidence.
• Understanding when something feels off and knowing that when this happens she needs to ask for help.
• Returning to the company that she left.
• Growing horizontally in your career.
• Why she feels so grateful.
• What is a joy spotting practice and how to use it in your life.
• Christina Wallace (link to our interview) wrote the Portfolio Life (Amazon Link).
• What books she shares most with other people.

You can learn more about Jeanette over at her blog on Medium. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why Melanie made a huge shift in her career when she was coached instead of managed.
• How her whole life recalibrated with a five minute conversation with her manager.
• Aligning our energy with what helps us feel expansive.
• Why she wasn’t happy with the success that she had.
• The difference between what I should do to be successful and doing what is aligned with my heart to be successful.
• Growing up with a narcissistic parent and how it affects our decisions.
• How to peel away our layers so we make better decisions.
• Understanding what we believe is possible.
• Aligning with our true value system.
• Getting stuck in our careers and how to break free of old beliefs.
• Why our fragmented self holds us back.
• Not getting sucked into the weeds so we can make decisions that help us improve our decision-making skills.
• Why we don’t listen to our innate decision-making.
• How to avoid the treadmill of unhappiness.
• Why people in our lives want us to stay in our safety zone.
• Being self-regularted to make microadjustments in your career.
• Having the right people around you so you stay true to your vision and values.
• Going deep into what makes her feel powerful.
• How she accomplishes more now and works less than 10 years ago.
• Updating our constructs.
• Making microadjustments can make big impacts in their future.
• Sell your value and not your time.
• Adjusting our systems so we can get better results.
• Melanie’s favorite book to give away.

You can learn more about Melanie over at her website Melanie Benson where she teaches about amplifying your message. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. 

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Priorities can actually be pretty exciting when you think about it. They're like a flight plan for your life! 

At the end of the day, you get to time travel for a few minutes. 

You land your plane, put out your time travel spaceship (AKA your reflection device, journal, recorder, etc.), and see what could be improved for your next flight tomorrow.

And who doesn't love a good flight plan?

“The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.” Warren Buffett

So, what exactly are priorities? 

Simply put, they're the things that matter most to you. 

They're the things that you want to focus your time and energy on. And let's face it, we all have a lot of things vying for our time and attention these days. 

Work, family, friends, hobbies, Netflix binges... the list goes on and on. So, it's important to figure out what your priorities are and make sure you're spending your time on the things that truly matter to you.

Highlights from the interview:

• Why Bruce thought he wasn’t smart enough to follow in his Mom or Dad’s career path.
• How to break a problem down to better understand it.
• Making the complex simple.
• He shares a great story that explains how he helped a shipping company look at an issue from a new angle.
• Reframing the problem by reframing the problem.
• Learning about yourself so you are more emotionally intelligent.
• Courageously curious.
• Practicing curiosity.
• How to stop looking at yourself as the expert, so you see things from a fresh perspective.
• Beginners mind.
• Story about how he was arguing with his wife and how his wife framed it for their kids, so they see fighting can be done in a healthy way.
• Why he tells his employees that he is the most imperfect employee.
• Help employees create space to share how they are feeling.
• How he handles his inner voice.
• Understanding other people’s internal view of themselves.
• Helping people become more aware of themselves.
• Creating courageous space for employees.
• Cultivating our lens on a difficult situation.
• Why we need to give ourselves grace when we mess up.
• Letting poeple make the decision on their own.

You can learn more about Bruce over at Pariveda Solutions. You can also connect with him over at LinkedIn as well.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Brent’s origin story.
• How he became highly attuned to other people’s emotions.
• Becoming the seeker in his career.
• Understanding how his superpower has helped him in his career.
• Understanding your milestones and how they impacted your career.
• Why we make choices because we want to be valuable.
• How he uses his decision-making process.
• Understanding your internal checks when collaborating with others.
• The importance of developing internal awareness.
• Why he uses two different journals.
• Redirecting your energy in a more positive way.
• Understanding where our focus is through our work.
• Solving the right problem.
• Using the Jobs to be Done process to make sure we are solving the right problem.
• Building good habits as we try to build our company culture.
• Center yourself when you are feeling burned out.
• Noticing bad behaviors increase when we worked really hard on a project.
• Why he joined a Men’s group to help him grow in other areas of his life.
• Why it’s important to stop your mind from racing.
• Building good habits to keep us on track.
• Using inner focusing to help shift how we view stress.

You can learn more about Brent Schmidt over at Strategic Fuel. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why we should follow our natural interest.
• The power of curiosity is how she stays on top of everything new that is happening in the marketing industry.
• Developing good decision-making habits.
• Understanding the why behind the question instead of jumping in with an answer.
• Working with our inner voice, so we become more encouraging.
• Creating a reflection routine to learn from mistakes.
• Systems help people understand how to do the task well.
• Setting a foundation for developing good system habits.
• How she keeps on track of her and her team’s goals.
• Asking yourself good questions to help encourage team collaboration.
• Noticing when you aren’t building the team culture and how to get back on track.
• Making time to notice the things that you do well.
• Why she scores herself to track her progress as a leader.
• Finding opportunities to slow down and course correct.
• How she gives her employees 100% of her attention when they meet.
• How to tap into the subconscious mind to be a better leader.
• Finding the right time to check in with your teammates.
• How to build rapport with your team.
• Taking care of yourself is so important to doing great work.
• Favorite book and toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Sara Nay over at Duct Tape Marketing. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

You become more comfortable in your own skin, which allows you to make better decisions.

I want you to have a fun and structured way to dig into your mindset and better understand yourself so that you can make decisions that align with your values. 

You can have a life filled with less anxiety and more energy because you focus on the things that matter to you. 

You might be afraid of digging deep because there is a lot of pain there, but it does get easier. 

If you see a therapist, counselor or attend a group, these are all good routines and important to your success. You should continue to do them, but I suggest you also work to understand the lens through which you make decisions. 

You can begin to uncover your beliefs and see how they support or hurt your ability to take advantage of the opportunities in your life. This is how you’ll get the most value out of your time.

I created the Decision-Maker Personality Assessment to help you see how you view decisions. 

I noticed that there are five main decision-making personality types. Each one has its strengths and weaknesses. 

Gaining a better awareness of how you make decisions will help you get better results in your career.

Highlights from the interview:

• Catherine’s three stages to her career.
• She discovered her superpower by seeing what people came to her for in her career.
• Understanding your genius zone.
• Understanding employee engagement or lack of it.
• Why communication about our why is so important in companies.
• Taking control of your career.
• Look for your skill gaps and how to close them.
• How to work on your mindset so you take action on an uncomfortable project.
• Why your mind is like a golden retriever.
• How meditation helps her relationships.
• How to turn an arduous task into something better so you aren’t cranky.
• How our inner voice holds us back from doing the important task that should be done.
• Why procrastination happens.
• Being kinder to ourselves helps in these key areas.
• What task she does when she is avoiding doing a difficult task.
• How to use deliberate procrastination to help us solve a problem.
• Making procrastination a part of your creative process.
• Her secret to getting stuff done during her work day.
• Building good habits that support your deep work.
• How London Writers Hour works.
• Why we need to talk to people who are ahead of us in our career.
• How to notice when you feel burnout coming on, so you can make adjustments.
• Asking for help when we need it.
• Favorite book, podcast and favorite toy as a kid

You can learn more about Catherine over at her website Point A to Point B Transitions. You can also connect with her

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• The story of how Jen processed her friend’s passing from cancer.
• How her friend passed away.
• How she learned from her father’s death.
• Showing up in the world from a place of love.
• Reframing a difficult project so we are excited instead of burdened by it.
• Getting out of auto-pilot mode.
• Asking ourselves better questions so we are happier and more productive.
• How not to get swept away by our emotions.
• Accepting a situation with more humor and lightness.
• Using pain as a chance to grow.
• The deep learning that comes out of reflecting on a difficult situation.
• Working through your negative inner dialogue.
• Understanding our connection to what we really want.
• The difference between willpower and waypower.
• How why and desire are two different things.
• Giving ourselves permission to accept our desires.
• We need help being seen in our desires.
• Why we don’t know what we want.
• Our identity is so wrapped up in our construct of life.
• How she dealt with an Oprah experience that didn’t meet her expectations.
• How a failed memoir changed how she looks at life.

You can learn more about Jen Louden over at Jennifer Louden’s website. You can also connect with Jen on LinkedIn and check out her book Why Bother (Amazon Link). 

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• The story of how Chris smashed his new bike into the side of the house.
• Why he likes the serenity prayer.
• Why we should not just accept our current job role.
• How to make improvements to your job role.
• How to plant mental seeds to help us improve our outlook if we are in a difficult situation.
• Why time is so valuable and how it’s still underappreciated.
• The importance of having difficult conversations.
• Why self-awareness helps you improve your inner dialogue.
• How Steven Covey wrote the 7 Habits book.
• Radical ownership changes how you grow your career.
• How to influence meetings to make them more productive.
• Avoiding reactionary decisions.
• Creating frameworks to help you make proactive decisions.
• How does Chris set-up his days so they are productive and he’s also happy.
• The importance of getting a good night’s sleep.
• Why he waits 90 minutes after he wakes up to drink coffee.
• Why we are so tough on ourselves.
• Building a more supportive inner voice that supports your good work.
• How the practice of meditation helps you process your thoughts and emotions.
• Calibrating your thoughts so you make proactive decisions.

You can learn more about Chris Brogan over at his website. You can also check out his YouTube channel and LinkedIn profile.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

When my clients first come to me, they usually have janky reflection routines to help them grow healthier, wealthier, happier, etc. We all have goals, but most don’t have a daily system that helps them reach those goals.

It’s why most of us give up on our New Year's resolutions so quickly.

I had a friend whose New Year's resolution was to exercise every day. That resolution lasted two days. 

It’s hard to make changes in our lives. We are so used to doing things the way we’ve always done them. 

Understanding our beliefs is the best way to improve our careers or any aspect of our lives. We have to believe that we are meant to exercise daily. If we believe that exercising every morning will make us happier and healthier then we’ll do it. The problem is that most of the time we don’t really believe the new routine will make us happier and healthier. 

Well…we logically know it, but we don’t believe it. We lack conviction. We don’t feel like it’s worth the effort to make a change. So we wake up on that third day and we ask ourselves, “Do I feel like exercising today?” 

The answer is, “Nope,” which means we hit the snooze alarm and we miss our chance to continue our streak and build the habit. 

The dialogue goes something like this:

“Do I feel like exercising today?”

“Nope. I’m tired. I have a big day today. If I exercise, then my energy will fade this afternoon. I should probably get more sleep.”

These bad questions are often the culprit of us not making lasting changes in our lives. We end up putting our focus on the immediate desire for more rest instead of helping our future selves become happier and healthier.

Highlights from the interview:

• How Rubin heard his inner voice telling him to quit his corporate job.
• Why he made a radical decision to quit his job when he was the breadwinner of his family.
• How to tune into our inner voice.
• What we do with the information that the inner voice tells us is just as important as listening.
• Why change can be very scary.
• Reframing change so we take action.
• The importance of creating a career blueprint.
• The three criteria that need to be met in your career to be happy.
• Understanding what you really want out of your career.
• How to bypass your disempowering beliefs.
• How to know if you are stuck in a disempowering belief.
• Noticing your patterns by numbering them in your journal.
• Example of how someone asked for a 75% raise and what he did when he didn’t get it.
• Exploring different ideas that help you improve your career.
• Most impactful book, favorite podcast, tip to get support in your career, and favorite toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Misha Rubin over at The Career Leap. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Dan immigrated from Ukraine and help co-found a business.
• Taking on opportunities that push him outside his comfort zone.
• Taking a moment to release stress before making a decision.
• Building a business without a marketing budget.
• Building a company into a 30 million a year in revenue.
• The importance of having a growth mindset.
• The framework he uses to learn something new.
• Why we should not focus on being an expert.
• Finding someone that is a year ahead of you to learn from.
• Why we need stressful events in our lives.
• He took a job in France without knowing the language.
• How expecting stress from a situation will help reduce your stress levels.
• How to remove your “negative objection voice” from your inner dialogue.
• Growing your self-awareness.
• How to reframe the “no’s” so you can grow from these rejections.
• Turning a “no” into an opportunity.
• Finding new connections from people that aren’t ready to work with you.
• Your mentors are critical to your success.
• Being self-aware enough to ask for help.
• Reaching out to people who are one level above you to learn from them.
• The formula to reach your goals.
• Putting an end date on your hypothesis.
• Using an artificial constraint to get more things done.
• The importance of having a positive impact in the world.]
• Finding multiple ways to win.

You can learn more about Dan Zavortotny over at the Nutrisense website. You can connect with Dan over at his LinkedIn page.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why Desiree likes to have difficult conversations.
• Staying connected during a conflict.
• Understanding why deep change is possible.
• Why conflict is essential to the change process.
• Why she was afraid of conflict as a kid.
• How Audre Lord taught her about her voice.
• She shares Dr. Love’s four steps of consciousness.
• Why we filter our thoughts to fit in with others.
• Understanding what is the worst thing that will happen if we speak up.
• Why playing it safe is not the answer.
• Ask yourself, “Who benefits when I don’t speak up?”
• Making room in the middle so we all have a chance to speak.
• We can be in conflict and hold each other with great care.
• How to look at the bigger picture instead of protecting our egos.
• Why most of us don’t know how to apologize.
• The power of putting yourself out there.
• How not to worry about what other people think of us.
• Why we must have conflict at work to drive positive change.
• How to understand our expectations going into the meeting.
• Talking about things that make us feel broken.

You can learn more about Desiree Adaway over at the Adaway Group. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn as well. 

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Investing in Bitcoin when it was at its all-time high. Anyone? Just me? 

I’ve said “Yes” to the wrong opportunities and “No” to the right ones. It’s only by looking back on these situations that I’ve learned to improve my decision-making skills.

Many of us have these regrets, but most don’t have a system to review our decisions. Our decision-making process needs to improve. Otherwise, we won’t reach our goals.

Many people struggle with uncertainty, fear of making the wrong choice, lack of information, emotional biases, and conflicting priorities when making important decisions. Social pressures, past experiences, and self-doubt may also influence them. These factors can make it difficult for individuals to weigh the options and make a clear, confident choice.

I struggled in many aspects of my career. I would let my fear of mistakes hold me back. When I made a mistake, I would berate myself. I didn’t want to be mean to myself. I hurt my future decisions for months, even years.

As author Ryan Holiday writes, this is why our ego can be our enemy. We try something challenging, and when it fails, as it often does, we beat ourselves up. No wonder we don’t take smart risks. We are too afraid.

I remember working for a client who wanted my help rewriting the company’s board of directors report. They added to my scope of work, but I was afraid to speak up. I didn’t feel like I was good enough to speak up. My inner voice kept saying, “Just do the work. Worry about payment later. You’re just lucky to have this client.” 

This made my so angry I destroyed one of my favorite possessions. You can find out what I destroyed in the link below.

You can learn more about this topic on my blog. I wrote an article to compliment this episode: https://digtofly.com/how-to-get-over-a-bad-decision/

Highlights from the interview:

• Justin shares his story about turning from a chef into an entrepreneur.
• He dissects how he got into the culinary arts.
• Three core parts of our inner voice.
• Why a lot of people struggle with apathy.
• Using mental frameworks to get to the heart of an issue.
• The power of learning from the right people.
• Developing systems that you can’t trust kills people’s productivity.
• How guardrails can help us be more creative.
• Being able to say “No” to projects that aren’t a fit for your future self.
• Why ego can be your enemy.
• Shooting for the goal that will make you truly happy.
• Building something more sustainable.
• Focusing on the larger goals will help you make better decisions each day.
• How he almost burned his apartment down.
• How Tim Ferriss changed how he looked at his career.
• Understanding how to create and execute on your goals.
• What was really holding him back from growing his business.
• How his beliefs around money had him stuck.
• Alex Hormozi’s framework around building a better business.
• Most impactful book and favorite toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Justin Khanna over at his personal website and Repertoire where he teaches hospitality professional how to build a career. You can also connect with him on his YouTube channel and LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Leo explains how he started Zen Habits and how he quit smoking.
• Becoming aware of our urges is the first step to changing our habits.
• Working with your inner voice, so you build a better relationship with yourself.
• Where our negative inner voice comes from.
• What he writes down and what his inner voice tells him when he wants to rationalize a decision.
• How we fool ourselves into being hard on ourselves.
• Balancing out our negative inner voice so we actually get things done.
• Being committed and unattached. 
• Why we don’t try our best on an important project.
• How we can get off the hamster wheel of goals.
• Facing the resistance that a big project has within it.
• Showing up fully committed to the day.
• How I learned to change my lens to learning to help me stay focused in a meeting.
• Noticing perfectionist tendencies and letting go of it, so you can be more present and make better decisions.
• How to let go of grasping for a certain outcome and focusing on this instead.
• Training with uncertainty and fear will help us grow.
• Why clients have the tools, but don’t actually make progress.
• Sitting with uncomfortable feelings and how this practice can help us improve our productivity.
• Favorite toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Leo over at Zen Habits. Check out his book, Essential Zen Habits: Mastering the Art of Change, Briefly (Amazon Link) You can also connect with him over at Twitter.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Nick explains why he is an introvert and how he gets energy from relationships.
• How motivation in different areas of his life help spur new ideas.
• Finding creative periods to help grow his business.
• Creating a sprint deadline to get stuff done.
• Your best energy should be sacred to you.
• How to ask yourself better questions, so you are able to be more productive and happier.
• Developing a quarterly progress report to help you understand what is working well, what isn’t and how to adjust.
• Testing out little ideas that can really boost your business.
• The importance of looking at your new ideas as just a hypothesis.
• How he deals with failure.
• He gives an example of a failed product.
• Testing out ideas instead of going all in on an idea.
• How to capture ideas, so you can use them later.
• How to figure out what things to create that people will want to buy.
• Creating processes that help you create systems that help you improve your business.
• How AI can help you in your business.
• Creating processes that help you save time.
• Noticing where our energy rises when we work.
• Why he hired a coach to help him become a better interviewer.
• Most impactful book, impactful podcast, favorite toy as a kid.

You can learn more about Nick Loper over at the Side Hustle Nation. Check out his podcast Side Hustle Show. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What Patti was like as a kid and how her personality influenced her career.
• Why having freedom as a kid is so important to creativity.
• How I’ve struggled with being playful in my career.
• Inserting fun into work.
• How not to take yourself too seriously.
• Why sharing an embarrassing story helps us connect with others.
• She shares her embarrassing story with us.
• Listening and understanding to your ego to help you avoid getting stuck.
• Acknowledging our inner critic helps us get better results.
• What advice her mom would give to her as a kid and how she applies it in her career.
• How her parents influenced her.
• How her fears have influenced her decisions.
• Learning to be a lot imperfect.
• How perfectionism has held her back from finishing her book.
• How to get out of the weeds so you fly in your career.
• Why I was afraid to put time into something because I struggle with perfectionism.
• Building her legacy.
• How to surface our doubts so we don’t allow them to dictate our decisions.
• Why she focuses on her vision at the beginning of a project.
• Noticing the patterns is vital to understanding your vision of a big project.
• How to understand unuseful questions so you can focus on what matters.
• Developing your intuition when trying to make good decisions.
• Understanding her strengths and weaknesses so she works on projects that fit her personality.
• The art of making decisions when working on a big project.
• Checking in with your whole body when making decisions.
• Understanding the lens through which we view life.
• The nervous mechanism of overtalking.
• Giving ourselves attention helps us become better listeners.
• Understanding how much energy a certain task takes and how to meet our needs while doing it.
• Most impactful book, podcast, favorite toy, and essential tool in her career.

You can learn more about Patti DeNucci over at Intentional Networker. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. Check out her book, More Than Just Talk: The Essential Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Enjoy Better Conversations (Amazon Link).

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

“On an important decision one rarely has 100% of the information needed for a good decision no matter how much one spends or how long one waits. And, if one waits too long, he has a different problem and has to start all over. This is the terrible dilemma of the hesitant decision maker.” Robert K. Greenleaf, The Servant as Leader

You have a great opportunity to learn more about what you really want if you make time to dig into the truth. It’s an opportunity to slow down and course correct, so you can make sure your head, heart, and gut are aligned with your next set of actions. 

This phrase was spun from Plato the Greek philosopher who said, “Our need will be the real creator”.

Being stuck is a regular part of life. It means that you care about the situation and want it to turn out well. You should start by checking with yourself before you can get unstuck. You have to get clear on the issue that makes you feel stuck. It starts with understanding the lens through which you are viewing the situation.

Highlights from the interview:

• How to stand out in the crowd.
• How she came up with the concept of Tongue Fu.
• Peeling away our layers to gain more confidence.
• How not to fall back into bad habits.
• Understanding why we feel like imposters.
• Speaking is a great way to grow your personal brand, career and business.
• Why perfectionism holds us back in our careers.
• How to embrace our gifts to help people.
• How to stop beliefs that compromise our effectiveness.
• How Candy fell into a depression after her daughter died in a car accident.
• How to lose our self-doubts.
• The 70-10-10-10 exercise that turns infobesity into intrigue.
• Why stories are so powerful to help us remember things.
• How to break down the scene of the story for your audience.
• Pulling out a story that is an “aha” for the audience.
• Great questions help frame the story.
• Jot your thoughts when they are hot.
• The power of good frameworks.
• Crafting propriety work that helps us grow our brand.
• Make the familiar fresh.
• Bring in stories that relate to your topic.
• Connecting what you do with your message.
• Crafting your story in a way that makes it memorable.
• The three most influential people in her life.

You can learn more about Sam Horn over at her website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.

And as always, if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing, just reach out to me on the Dig to Fly website, and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview, please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Would you rather have the superpower to turn invisible or be super strong?

My one son would rather be super strong while my other son would like to be invisible.

The idea of turning invisible is tempting to anyone especially if they get embarrassed. We want to hide when we feel embarrassed, overwhelmed and tired. We feel safer.

When we explore our inner thoughts and dialogue a whole world opens up to us. We understand why we choose a coke over sparkling water during a stressful day. We understand why we keep getting irritated by an annoying coworker.

Think of the moments when you have your most creative ideas. It’s often during a shower, walk, working out, meditating, praying etc. It’s because we are slowing down and connecting with the universe, God, infinite, or whatever you want to call it. This is where we find our hidden opportunities.

Highlights from the interview:

• How to not compromise your values.
• The tension of what we know is true and what society is telling us to do.
• The importance of making healthy choices in our careers.
• The continual process of learning from our stress.
• Being way more honest with yourself and others to reduce your stress.
• The promise we make to others.
• Why Karl is afraid to be himself.
• The layers of reality and how they influence our decisions.
• The awe inspiring aspects of our lives.
• Developing practices that help us bring difficult moments into perspective.
• Making adjustments in our careers.
• Checking in with ourselves to help remind us to make good decisions.
• The practice of remembrance.
• The importance of not wishing things were different.
• Understanding what got you to your present success and how to get to the next level.
• Finding healthy mental models to grow your career.
• How to slow down so you can speak clearly.
• Just being is ok. We often forget this because we get caught up in our emotions.
• Carrying important qualities that allow us to live a more full career.
• Finding ways to make our work more effective.
• Waking up when we feel hooked by a situation.
• Impactful book.

You can learn more about Mark over at Heart of Business. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Understanding the fears that hold you back.
• How we can move on after making a mistake.
• How we can improve how we talk to ourselves.
• Using the skill of putting things into perspective, so you don’t get too upset.
• Use Ramon’s mantra to help keep things in perspective.
• Noticing the patterns in our lives and using them to grow ourselves.
• How to surround ourselves with good people and content to grow our careers.
• How he takes notes on his life.
• Using your notes to help you grow in life.
• What he does to stay healthy and happy in his career.
• How to build habits that actually stick.
• Understanding how to build a habit based on your personality.
• How to bring your full self to a presentation.
• How he prays to get the most out of himself.
• The importance of learning from each other to grow your career.
• When you accept yourself other people are more willing to accept yourself.
• Don’t try to fit what other people are doing into your life if it doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
• The importance of focusing on one thing at a time.
• Most impactful book, podcast and tool in his business.

You can learn more about Ramon Ray over at his website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Many of us look back on our year with regret or complaint. We must avoid ruminating on the bad things and create a process that helps us take an honest look at our lives. It starts with the little decisions that we make everyday. We must look at our mistakes in a way that helps us grow from them instead of allowing our inner bully to wreck our confidence. We must also look at the thing we do well, so we do more of this good stuff for our future selves happiness and productivity.

I know this scenario sounds weird, but hear me out. 

We’ve won the lottery of life. We get to decide whether we have coffee, water, tea, or strawberry and banana smoothie in the morning. These choices are amazing. Then you get to experience the deliciousness of your choice.

We get to choose what we do every single day. Sometimes it doesn’t seem like a choice because we can feel trapped or on auto-pilot, but that’s the beauty of this game. When we choose to be present and appreciate our options, we are able to make wise decisions. Seeing how valuable each choice is helps us begin to make billion dollar decisions. 

Being able to give my family a billion dollars would probably do more harm than good, especially my boys. The benefit of having the presence of a father who can love them and teach them about life would far outweigh the benefit of a sum of money.

I’ve interviewed billionaires who aren’t happy. These unhappy billionaires are consumed by money, a desire to live forever, drugs, etc. They aren’t free. They are trapped by their desire for more.

We all want great lives, but we have to take risks to make this possible. You come from a long line of survivors, otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this. Most of our ancestors survived out of fear. They didn’t take big risks because they didn’t want to get eaten by a lion or fall into a tar pit.

It's time to spin this way of thinking. We can't make decisions out of fear if we want to fly free. We can’t make rash decisions. We must choose wisely. This requires us to develop a process that fits our personality, so we feel comfortable and confident making important decisions in our lives.

Highlights from the interview:

• What would Tara’s nine-year-old self think of her today.
• How to stay true to yourself.
• Getting comfortable making her own decisions.
• Developing the ability to understand what is important.
• How to be aware of what matters to you.
• The importance of pattern recognition.
• Understanding pattern: What is going on? Why did it come up? How can I relate it this stimulus differently?
• How to stop judging others when they trigger anger within us.
• Our tools have a big effect on our happiness.
• How to make a list that your future self will thank you for.
• Having context is key before you start your tasks.
• How to use energy management to get the most out of your work.
• The technology we use can hold our productivity back.
• Navigating her weaknesses to help you stay on track with her important work.
• Acknowledging our limitations is important to functioning well.
• How she can get back to doing deeper work when she is going through a difficult time.
• How she practices the commitment to belongings.
• How she encourages good behavior so she can install new habits in her life.
• Seeing your decisions as a symphony instead of random choices.
• How she noticed that she was playing small in the game of life.
• Most impactful book in her career.

You can learn more about Tara over at his website Explore What Works. You can also connect with her on Linkedin. 

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Figuring out how to work through the struggle when you get knocked down.
• Cultivating a resilient mindset.
• Finding people who have failed, so you can learn from their mistakes.
• How to figure out if people want what you created.
• The core parts of making your business succeed.
• How do you cultivate a strong mindset.
• Why entrepreneurs should have a therapist.
• How to deal with the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur.
• How he processes his emotions, so he can grow from them.
• Understanding your patterns so you can manage them better.
• Noticing your blind spots and how to stay on course when you get knocked off track.
• Realizing your expectations, so you can navigate them.
• Why it’s important to have open communication with your spouse when building a business.
• The entrepreneur rule of five.
• Building your support network.
• Getting to know people face to face and how you can do this today.
• How a mastermind is so powerful.
• Finding people who can hold you accountable.
• Cultivating a group of true friends who are also building a business.
• Why we need a little struggle in our lives.
• The game of self honesty.
• Having difficult conversations is important in our careers.
• Trying different side hustles can teach you so much about yourself.
• Most impactful book and podcast.
• Favorite toy as a kid.
• Essential tool to stay focused on the important things.

You can learn more about Corbett over at his website Corbett Barr. You can connect with him on Twitter. 

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How he sees life differently from other people.
• Nature and nurture
• There is a dependence between nature and nurture.
• Why he feels like an alien at times.
• Leaving this world a little bit better than he found it.
• How he cultivates his energy and the frame of mind.
• What his nighttime routine is and how it helps him prepare his mind and body for the next day.
• How he wakes up his body in the morning.
• The microbiome reregulates in our gut every six hours.
• How he has built a mindfulness platform at Auburn university.
• The difference between the brain and the mind.
• Our minds are deciding how we perceive our lives.
• We must work on not limiting ourselves.
• Why we need to work on being more present with our breath.
• Digging into how we perceive our lives.
• Being aware of our thoughts as they come and go.
• When you slow down and listen to your mind, body, and heart.
• Being consistent with small breaks to charge.
• Applying 60 for 60 during your day.
• Understanding the patterns in our lives, so we can make better decisions.
• Writing about how we are feeling.
• Building awareness starts with logging how we are feeling.
• Logging other parts of our lives, so we can understand ourselves better.
• Most impactful book, podcast, speaker, and favorite toy as a kid

You can learn more about Ford over at his website Ford Dyke. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn and subscribe to his podcast - Preform.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

• “Easy choices, hard life. Hard choices, easy life.” Jerzy Gregorek
• We don’t account for our future selves.
• Story - I recently struggled to make a choice. I was asked to do a speaking gig for free. It was a good opportunity to get in front of hundreds of my ideal customers, but it would have taken me away from my family.
• The old me would have said yes to the opportunity. The present me tries to find the opportunity in the situation even when there doesn’t seem like one.
• I could have said “No” asked for money, but I decided to go a different route. I asked if I could deliver the talk virtually. They said yes. I was still able to reach this audience, but I didn’t have to fly to another city and be away from my family.
• We want easy choices. We want to say “yes” to please others.
• We often say no to opportunities because it’s not worth our time and effort.
• Understanding how your past influences you choices.
• The cell phone industry was disrupted by the iPhone. Cell phones were free, but then Apple said, Nope, we are going to start charging for them. Now we pay $1K for a new phone, which was unheard of 20 years ago.
• The same thing happened to Polaroid with digital cameras. They wanted to believe that the industry wasn’t changing.
• We must understand how we make decisions to disrupt how we make decisions. If we continue to make decisions the way we always have we will get similar results. If we want to make billion dollar decisions we must improve our decision framework, so we improve our habits and ultimately our ability to make quality choices.
• 3 levels to better decisions faster.
• It starts with your brain.
• Then we move on to the heart
• Then we make out decision after checking in with our gut.

Summary - It’s easy to make quality decisions when you have a framework that works for your personality. Next time you make a more complicated decision try the Head, Heart and Gut framework and see how it helps you make a better choice for your future self.

Highlights from the interview:

• Attending his first conference after Covid lockdown.
• How his parents, who came from Cambodia, has influenced his life.
• How he explores his past thoughts and emotions.
• His family wasn’t rich and why he went after a career that would help him be rich.
• He wanted to fix his situation.
• Why he powered through to be successful and how much damage it did to his life.
• Asking yourself tough questions to get to the heart of an issue you are having.
• Looking at the emotional side of his life.
• Why he has a hard time feeling his emotions.
• How other people perceive him.
• How tough he was on himself as a young adult.
• How he handles work when he feels tired.
• Beating himself up for mistakes and how he got over this bad habit.
• Making the mental shift to be kinder to himself.
• How he keeps mistakes into perspective so he doesn’t freak out.
• Letting the feeling sweep you away, so you can process it.
• Creating values as an organization.
• Documenting all unspoken norms, so the whole team understands the expectations.
• Why his goal to take care of his employees helps drives his company forward.
• Why he encourages his employees to speak up.
• His goals for his company. 
• How he views Patagonia’s choices and how it’s influenced how he views his company.
• Why he hired a philosophy coach to help him dig into himself.
• Rapid fire questions - most impactful book, podcast, favorite toy as a kid, and tool to help with focus.

You can learn more about Khe over at Rad Reads. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Christina cheated at the Presidential fitness test when she was young and what it taught her.
• How to get over the overachiever mindset.
• Why we avoid things that we are bad at and how it hurts our careers.
• The reason she shut down her first company.
• How she dealt with closing her company.
• She had 30 days to get a job. 
• What she did to get moving and find a new job.
• Resetting her mindset after failure.
• Why you should dig into your personality with your friends.
• What questions she asked her friends to dig into herself and find out what direction to take her career in.
• Building your career at your day job.
• Why employers need to let their employees flex on their sidegig and how it can help the company grow.
• Being full human beings in our professional lives.
• Why opening up about our lives helps create unique connections that help galvanize a team.
• The word gets out about your team when you allow people to be their full selves at work.
• Why stories show the values of the people that we work with.
• Show people who you are through stories instead of telling people who you are.
• Why asking for help is so important.
• Letting go of our ego when asking for help.
• The cost of not being vulnerable can be so much higher than we expect.
• Connecting around shared love or a shared purpose is so much more powerful than connecting around complaining.
• Looking back at your past to start to connect the career dots moving forward.
• Why she valued autonomy so much in her career.
• Most impactful book, favorite speaker, tool that helps her stay focused.

You can learn more about Christina over at her website Christian Wallace dot com. You can also follow her on LinkedIn and Twitter.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How San Antonio changed after just 12 years.
• If you want to do something there is a way, it just takes time and creativity.
• Finding ways to ask for what you need.
• How she got into the Walt Disney college program and how it shaped her.
• Why the program encouraged her to be more outgoing.
• The mission of creating magical moments for your customers.
• Trusting your people is an important part of leadership growth.
• How Amber used the Law of Attraction to get the project she wanted in her company.
• She gives an example of creating a magical moment for a customer.
• Helping people earn money changes people’s lives.
• How focusing on what works versus what other people are doing is most important to growing a business.
• Why luck plays a big role in success.
• Making decisions that support the most important parts of business.
• Creating differentiation in your business because you stay true to your values.
• Why she took a $70k paycut to join mediavine.
• How does she encourage herself when she is struggling in life.
• Why leaning into your routine can help you stay focused on what happens.
• Why she started seeing a therapist.
• What she did to support her therapy sessions.
• Understanding why she felt misunderstood.
• How the pandemic changed her family’s life.
• Most impactful book The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch (Amazon audio book), speaker, essential stay focused on what matters.

You can learn more about Amber Bracegirdle at Mediavine. You can also connect with her on Linkedin.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Finding gratitude in the struggle takes a mindset shift.
• How she learned from negative women who had a bad attitude.
• Creating our own hell and how to avoid this trap.
• Her process around failure and how she used it for growth.
• Her methods of problem solving.
• Creating lots of ideas, so she wouldn’t get discouraged.
• Putting her faith in God and how it helped her find new solutions to her problems.
• Being an active participant in our lives so we don’t give up.
• Listening to a depressing album from her favorite artist changed how she consumed content.
• Matching your own energy with what you want out of life.
• How to break through our fear and go after what we want.
• Faith without works is dead.
• The missing part of the secret that is needed to have abundance in your life.
• How science supports the power of our desire.
• Intentionally work on growing our mindset.
• Rising our vibration to attract what we desire.
• You find what you focus on.
• Your brain can’t tell the difference between your imagination and reality.
• Why your awareness expands when expand your focus on what you want.
• Manifesting peanut butter cookies.
• Financial freedom.
• The three minute meditation that helped her attract what she wanted in life.
• Developing your plan to make your success more likely.
• Being accountable to yourself so you can adjust your actions.
• Why people struggle with accountability.
• The bad habit of blaming other people.
• How she creates her personal and professional goals that help her productivity.
• Overcoming her workaholic tendencies.
• Creating a good experience to connect with the right people.

You can learn more about Ashley over at Ashley Jones Speaks (affiliate link). You can also connect with her on Instagram and LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Lori’s strengths and weaknesses of being an emotional person has helped her and hindered her in her career and life.
• Messing with kids’ ice cream parties at school is much more difficult than one would expect.
• What she is grateful for about being an emotional person.
• Her entire family worked at the prison near her home. She was the only one that didn’t work at the prison.
• How her daughter also struggles with her emotions.
• How strength comes in many different forms.
• When you don’t support people they feel weak.
• Making adjustments to her business when the travel writing business wasn’t working.
• How a strength can turn into a weakness and a weakness can turn into a strength.
• Notice what you are drawn at an early age to help you guide your career.
• Why following your curiosity in your career is so important to your happiness.
• How to combine your strengths and curiosity to grow your career.
• Why female elephants struggle when they are alone in the wild.
• How we can feel like an outcast when we speak up.
• Technique that she uses to get stuff done when she doesn’t feel like doing them.
• How she gets around her procrastination.
• Why she fires herself on a project and then rehires herself so she is more creative.
• Most impactful book, podcast, favorite toy and essential tool to stay focused on essential task.

You can learn more about Lori over at Focused Escapes. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Sonia is working on her ADHD diagnosis.
• How to take things out in the world and connect them with your life to tell a story.
• Taking baby steps with your writing.
• The importance of psychological safety.
• How to tell a personal story about yourself so it lands for your audience.
• Turning a stumble into a learning moment.
• Talking about things that are hard and why it makes her position stronger.
• How she dealt with the passing of a friend.
• Why our inner armor is so toxic.
• How to improve our “suck it up” culture.
• Why accepting our mistakes helps us grow as a human.
• Benjamin Zander has shifted from being a tyrant conductor to a growth mindset leader.
• Talking to yourself is an underutilized skill.
• Using mental health tools that work for her.
• Watching how our minds judge people.
• The power of sending loving thoughts when we are negatively judging people.
• When we judge other people we increase the internal judgements of ourselves.
• What it’s like in Sonia’s head. I love how she describes it.
• Working with the voices in our head.
• How your values can help inspire you to take action on a tough project.
• Journaling is really useful because you take the internal and get it outside yourself.
• Sonia’s most impactful book, podcast, speaker, favorite toy as a kid and essential tool.

You can learn more about Sonia over at Creative Fierce and Unlock Your Words. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why Phil is guided by his values.
• His mom was a teach and how it influenced him. 
• Choosing who we are.
• Why he proclaims himself a nerd.
• The importance of doing what we need to do.
• Most people think they are self aware, but most are not.
• Surrounding yourself with friends that don’t judge you.
• What drives him to build businesses.
• How we need to look at cryptocurrency from a different perspective.
• Why social media should give back to people who use the platform.
• Why we need to give the people back control of their content.
• How does he navigate his weaknesses.
• How he uses his support systems to help him grow his businesses.
• His wife helps him tune into his emotions.
• What patterns he notices when he is upset.
• Trying to think about how small actions affect our larger goals.
• Making sure his employees are happy and content.
• How he sets a good example for his employees.
• Creating an employee comic strip for the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
• Creating training for employees.
• Greatest struggle and how he works through it.
• Most impactful book, podcast, and tool that he uses to stay focused on his work.

You can learn more about Phil over at Arro.io. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. 

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• When Ruth realized that she wasn’t a girl.
• Why fitting in at school was hard.
• Why conforming didn’t work for her.
• What it means to feel non-binary.
• How her therapist has helped her grow.
• Why not having the answers is ok.
• The importance of having a support network.
• Having people who help us understand our feelings.
• How blogging has helped her process her emotions.
• Talking to herself even when she is out in public.
• Sometimes you just have to say things out loud to see the truth..
• How has non-binary life challenged her as a lawyer.
• When she corrects people if they mis-gender her.
• How she deals with potential clients who aren’t willing to use the proper pronoun when talking or messaging her.
• How being non-binary helps her connect with people.
• Why she puts herself in situations that she feels comfortable with.
• Being challenged by other people is not a bad thing. It can help us grow.
• People have the right to be wrong.
• Why it’s not our job to change people’s perspective.
• You can’t be everything to everyone all the time.
• You never regret the client that you didn’t take.
• A story of what she did when a client stiffed her on a bill.
• Being mindful of the people around me.
• Understanding what is important in her life.
• Keep working and improving her processes so she gets closer to her goals.
• Getting lost in Sudoku. 
• Give yourself credit for what is going right.
• Why self meetings have helped her make adjustments in her life.
• Most impactful book, podcast, and speaker.

You can learn more about Ruth over at Ruth Carter Law. You can also connect with her on Twitter and LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What Jon was like as a kid.
• How does Jon let out his inner kid in his role as CEO.
• How his air force training helped him grow as a leader.
• The importance of purpose in a career.
• What Endeavors mission is and how they help vulnerable families and mental health and wellness for veterans.
• Even the tough days are fulfilling.
• The joy of helping others.
• Noticing when people bring extra energy to a task and why it matters.
• The importance of having common value systems.
• What causes conflict in a team.
• Why being a CEO is more about being a relationship manager than executing on projects.
• Understanding our gifts and how we can better leverage them with other people.
• Using prayer to slow down and process his thoughts and feelings.
• Why letting go of control can be a big relief.
• The power of being quiet and how it can give you more insight.
• Being transparent without fear of retribution.
• Catching a non-verbal cue from someone and how to use it as a coaching opportunity.
• Observing other people to help improve how you guide people.
• Why asking open-ended questions can be so powerful.
• Seeking to understand is a perspective that helps you build better relationships.
• How he navigates his lack of organization as a CEO.
• Finding people who balance out your skills.
• People only do things if they know it works.
• How to encourage people to fail so they grow smarter and stronger.
• The power of gratitude and how it helps him.
• Most impactful book and podcast.

You can learn more about Jon over at Endeavors website. You can also connect with Jon on Linkedin to learn more about him.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What Steve Kamb was like when he started Nerd Fitness.
• Why he laughs at his naivete about starting and running a business.
• How he built his empathy while growing his business.
• Why trying harder isn’t the answer.
• You don’t realize how lucky you are until you don’t have health issues.
• How challenging and courageous people have to be to get through a day.
• Why widening his perspective on life helped him so much in his life.
• The importance of speaking their language at their level.
• Why being more honest with himself has helped him grow.
• The importance of going to therapy even if you are in a good mental space.
• Where he goes to get support when he is struggling in his life.
• How he journals to process his thoughts and emotions.
• What works better than meditation for him.
• How he finds clarity with his wife when they are fighting.
• Acknowledging what other people struggle with and why it helps him.
• How he works with his thoughts to improve his relationships.
• How he learned the key numbers in his business so he could scale his company.
• What happened when he got away from using his strengths in his business.
• Making tough decisions that make him happier.
• How he came back to center when he got so far away from his strengths.
• Finding his happy place in his career.
• Saying “Yes” to the things that you really want to do.
• Having the courage to shift your career when you realize that you aren’t going in the right direction.
• Doing things for the pure enjoyment of it and why it’s important to his life.
• Understanding what you really want before you go all in.
• Acknowledging that we don’t live forever because it helps us make better choices.
• What book made a huge impact on his life.

You can learn more about Steve over at Nerd Fitness website. You can also connect with him on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• We start with career pivots and how Marina made the leap to a non-profit.
• Why purposeful work is so important to her.
• How she went from the private sector to a non-profit and how she weighed the pros and cons before she made the leap.
• Focusing back on her passions, so she was happier at work.
• How she dealt with bad internet connection during an important interview.
• How she works with her inner voice to help her when she stumbles.
• What happened when she was about to give an important presentation and her daughter hurt herself before she went on stage.
• Why being vulnerable can help us be a better leader.
• Learning from a situation when she lost a funder to her non-profit.
• She had to turn to her team to help her process the lost funder.
• What she does at the end of the day to help her wrap of her day and be present with her family.
• Why she doesn’t like working from home.
• How she deals with her stress by exercising each morning.
• She keeps a family gratitude journal to help her little girls focus on gratitude.
• How she uses notebooks to track the joy in her life.
• The struggles of being a leader of a non-profit.
• How she utilizes the strengths of her team.
• How her self-awareness has helped her be a better leader.
• The part of her work that lights her up.
• Getting people signed up to get free internet.
• The importance of checking in with our hearts.
• Being your authentic self at work.
• How she built a team that was confident and had strengths that she didn’t have, so they could round out the team.
• The importance of asking for help when you need it.
• Most impactful book.

You can learn more about Marina and what she does over at SA Digital Connects. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn. Send her a note and tell her what you thought of the interview.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Who and what he attributes his success to.
• How he cultivated his mindset, so he could succeed.
• Why he started his entrepreneurial journey at 16.
• How his lack of progress doesn’t hold him back.
• Measuring his success is very simple for him.
• How he looks at his KPIs (Key Performance Indicators).
• Why he is not emotional about his business.
• Where he got his entrepreneurial spirit.
• What he learned from his parents.
• The power of watching YouTube videos.
• The resources at our fingertips are endless.
• What happiness is the most important metric to measure.
• Cutting back on your expenses is the best way to give yourself a raise.
• The importance of your feelings in business.
• If you are miserable in your career this is how you can make a change.
• No one is forcing you to quit your job.
• What are you doing with your spare time?
• How he manages 750 employees in his business.
• Why he considered himself a terrible manager of employees.
• Why he encourages his people to make mistakes so they learn and grow.
• Finding people who can complement your strengths and weaknesses.
• He lost his ability to remember as well when he had kids.
• How he makes choices based on stress and family.
• The importance of people being able to come up with their own ideas and execute on them.
• Guiding your children.
• Joking with her daughter about eating healthy ice cream.
• Why he allows he doesn’t mind if his employees bring personal issues ot work.
• Most impactful book, podcast, speaker, toy he enjoyed as a kid, and essential tool.

You can learn more about Neil over at Neil Patel’s website. You can also connect with him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you enjoy the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What was Noah like as a kid.
• Why he liked money at a young age and how it spurred his entrepreneur journey.
• The importance of noticing the luxury that we often take for granted.
• Having fun things in your life to help make your inner child happy.
• Why treating children with love and respect is important because it makes an impact in their lives.
• His friends approach when he was being negative to himself to help reduce his negative inner voice.
• Personifying your inner critic and how it helps him feel happier.
• Not being judgmental of myself and other people.
• Separating yourself from the experience.
• How he practices being rejected and how it helps him.
• Why people don’t get what they want out of life.
• How chaos and peace affects his life.
• The bigger thread behind our conversation.
• What he does when he feels stuck.
• The practice he does each morning.
• Committing to what we want to change.
• The difference between waypower and willpower.
• Utilizing waypower to help you grow your life.
• The importance of having accountability.
• Two important leadership tips to implement in their lives.
• Why not making decisions for the team helps them grow.
• Coaching people is vital to getting the most out of your people.
• How to reflect and make adjustments as you are learning.
• Why he asks his employees if they can speak their mind.
• Why he surrounds himself with motivated people.

You can learn more about Noah over at App Sumo. You can also connect with him on Twitter.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What it means to be vulnerable and how it helps her in her career.
• The power of getting still and calm.
• How she notices when she is feeling upset or frustrated.
• The importance of doing a brain dump.
• How she trains herself to circumvent issues.
• How her dad influenced her life.
• Why we should practice unlearning.
• How showing up in life is cyclical.
• Understanding how our brain functions.
• Focusing on work when she started her entrepreneur journey with young kids.
• How theming her days helped her daughter with her school work during the pandemic.
• Working smart instead of overworking herself.
• Her morning routine and why she keeps it short.
• Why a productivity routine starts the night before.
• The importance of seeing patterns that are hurting us and how to make adjustments.
• Her end of day routine is to help her sleep better.
• Being fully present with your work and how it helps her productivity.
• The way we talk to our children becomes our inner voice.
• Why letting things go helps her with her inner voice.
• Being more flexible with how I get to the end.
• How she learned that she loves to teach people.
• Deepening our knowledge is a process.
• Finding space to be creative.
• How to be proactive vs. reactive in your business.
• Using your team to help take work off your plate.
• Most impactful book, podcast, and tool to help her in business.

You can learn more about Cara over at her website Cara Chace. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn or Pinterest.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What inspired Andrew when he was a kid.
• How we dealt with difficulties during our recording.
• What triggered him to notice how people have influenced him.
• He noticed how people he admired did things “their” way.
• How he went into debt $75,000 in debt then millions and why he wanted this debt.
• It’s not about the purpose.
• The people that surround us are a big influence over our motivation.
• Why he wants to help entrepreneurs succeed.
• How to do work that you love.
• Understanding the mindset of an entrepreneur.
• Making choices that allow you to fly free.
• How to do things that you love to do.
• The value of trying a bunch of little things to understand what you want to do.
• How he dealt with a recent failure and processed his thoughts and emotions.
• Why he couldn’t finish the book that he stopped and started many times.
• How he was able to complete his book.
• How we define ourselves.
• What he does to deal with his negative inner voice.
• Didn’t realize that he was brushing off the importance of design.
• Finding the right person to collaborate with.
• Why we shouldn’t give up if we really want something.
• What he did to help himself become happier.
• How he learned the missing ingredient to helping his students succeed.
• The people who he admires check in on him.
• How he missed things because of his assumptions.
• What realization he had at the end of our interview.
• Most impactful book, podcast, favorite toy and essential tool to stay focused.

You can learn more about Andrew over at Mixergy where he has interviewed thousands of amazing entrepreneurs. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter to learn more.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the podcast episode:

• We can’t just focus on the negative all the time when it comes to our careers. We have to see what things we are enjoying and figure out how we can do more of it.
• It’s taking me a long time to accept my strengths and weaknesses, but as I have I’ve become so much happier.
• Work is not just about getting a paycheck or earning money to put our kids to college or for buying the latest gadget. It’s about peeling away our armor and seeing who we truly are in this life.
• The more we learn about ourselves the closer we get to doing work that we love. I was recently digging a trench out front of my mom's yard, so the water wouldn’t just flood the front of her yard and driveway. I noticed that I was having fun digging the trench. This never would’ve happened 10 years ago, but all the work that I’ve put in has helped me appreciate what I can do in the work that I have in front of me and how I can learn more about myself as I do the work.
• I’m going to confess I have not always been a hard worker. I’ve been afraid of putting my full effort into the work because I thought it was a waste of my time. When I realized that work is a way to improve your life and improve your mindset. That’s when everything began to change in my career as well.
• I began to dig into my struggles which we talked about in the previous podcast and I also began to dig into the things that lit me up inside.
• When you notice that you’re enjoying work I want you to feel this sensation. What does it feel like? How does it feel in your body? Why do you enjoy the work? How can you create more opportunities to do more of this work?
• Practice digging into your happiness. Understand it from different angles. Then you can see your truth and work with it. You start to get more creative with your opportunities. 
• This is the power of digging into your happiness, so you can try similar things and fly just a little farther than last time. 

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

It’s amazing how a remark from a co-worker can bother us if we aren’t aware of our thought patterns. We let a maybe innocent remark or not so innocent remark get to us. It’s these situations that can help us peel away our inner armor and become more free in our lives.

I hope you enjoy this episode because I enjoyed sharing how I use my career to grow happier and more productive.

Highlights from the episode:

• How Joshua Becker views his inner voice.
• What Michael Singer thinks we should be doing when we feel struggle in our careers.
• Story about my struggles in my career.
• What you should do when your boss shoots down an idea that you have.
• What you can do when a co-worker says something that you don’t like.
• How to use the Dig to Fly Method to help you process your thoughts and emotions.
• The importance of breaking your thought patterns so you can break free and fly in your career.

It’s important to remember that you have the ability to look at a situation in any way that you like. The attitude that you bring to your life and career will often determine the outcome of a situation. If you can see the opportunity when your boss shoots down your idea then you won’t get knocked down and stay down. You’ll get back up and figure out another way to get what you want.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Laura got into design.
• How the design industry has changed.
• Pivoting her career into design.
• What inspired her to make a change in her career.
• Key skills that helped her grow her career.
• How she repositioned herself in her career.
• She noticed how the universe was supporting her.
• How she discovered an important strength and why she leaned into it.
• The importance of problems that you can solve.
• Showing people that you are excited about a project at work can make it easier to change your career.
• Looking at empty spaces that need attention.
• Doing things that aren’t your job.
• The importance of doing work that “does something”.
• How being a designer became a career.
• How we can improve our observation skills and find pain points to help solve problems.
• What happens when you do the extra things that excite you within a company.
• How you can improve your research skills.
• Why context is so important to understanding a problem.
• How we can reduce our biases when we are researching a problem.
• The best way to observe others to help you find breakthroughs that you didn’t expect.
• Learn about how you can get people to volunteer more information that creates insights.
• How to get time with people that can help your career.
• We look at her struggles and how she processes through her failures.
• Why she goes into a new situation with a learner's mind.
• Laura’s most impactful book.
• Appreciating how we think differently and why we need to embrace it.

You can learn more about Laura over at Laura Faulkner’s website. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn to build a relationship with her.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• The mindset around how he grew his career.
• Why he decided to start his own business.
• How his personality affected his ability to network with other business owners.
• How he dealt with immigrating from Poland as a kid.
• His wife’s encouragement helped him get over some of his networking fears.
• The importance of being himself and not trying to be something that he wasn’t.
• Using what people notice about you to connect with them.
• Deepening connections quickly.
• How he uses failure to grow his resilience.
• How he works with his inner voice.
• Why he lets his kids make mistakes.
• Instilling good reflection habits into his kids routine when they make a mistake.
• The values that we have help us make choices.
• How he uses his own life examples to help him coach an employee.
• Why showing them how to fix a situation won’t stick with an employee.
• The importance of getting an outside perspective.
• The reason we can’t figure out our problems on our own.
• How he shifted his personality from being an introvert to being more of an extrovert.
• Most impactful book, morning routine, evening routine, task he uses to stay focused.
• Why he doesn’t like to write things down.
• How he got over procrastination.

You can learn more about Martin over at Boardi. You can also check out his new book The Corportate Matchmaker (Amazon Link). Connect with him on LinkedIn to learn more about him.

Highlights from the interview:

• What does he appreciate about what he has been able to accomplish.
• Why taking for granted limits your humility.
• Dealing with doubts about starting a successful business.
• Why dwelling on past mistakes can keep you humble.
• Building awareness around how you can learn.
• How he finished MIT online courses in just one year.
• Why making a public declaration that he would complete 4 years of MIT courses in just one year.
• Making goals that check off multiple reasons.
• Why following your curiosity turns a career from good to great.
• How he learned another language quickly.
• Getting comfortable being uncomfortable.
• Why learning a business is similar to learning another language.
• Digging into his failures as an entrepreneur.
• How he processed his failures and came out stronger.
• The importance of committing to challenging projects that excite you.
• How to create good guard rails for a new project that you want to start.
• Understanding your strengths and weaknesses.
• Why authors struggle to write the more they improve as writers.
• Seeking truth in his work helps him be authentic.
• Making sure not to sugar coat his work.
• Not worrying about the judgements of others.
• Understanding that we are all deeply flawed.
• Most impactful book, podcast, tool he uses to stay focused on his work.

You can learn more about Scott over at Scott H Young website. You can check out his book Ultralearning on Amazon. You can also get the 7 Must-know Strategies to learn anything faster. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Biggest challenge leaders face in business.
• The symptoms that occur from the struggles.
• The importance of feeling worthy.
• The first that occurs after something good happens to us.
• The Dig to Fly Method and how it works.
• Rate Your Day Routine and how it helps people build their self-awareness.
• Creating the data to help you improve your career.
• Building habits to process thoughts and emotions.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Finding the right type of mindset to build great relationships.
• How to not miss the important stuff that can teach you a lot about yourself.
• Cool technique to understand what you value.
• Focusing on the things that bring out the best in yourself.
• What weaknesses he has and how he navigates them in his career.
• Reframing your weaknesses can help you tackle things more head on.
• The best way to give feedback to someone.
• Balancing out your feelings when you are feeling overwhelmed.
• Dealing with burnout and why he decided to follow his heart.
• Processing a terrible event that happened to his family.
• Allowing a traumatic event to help him grow.
• How he works on slowing down his thoughts so he can sleep at night.
• Creating a mindful moment of the week.
• How we see things from a new perspective.
• Pushing ourselves outside our comfort zone so we grow our careers.
• How do we cross train people, so they grow outside of their daily orbit.
• Why you should celebrate failure.
• Building company culture, so it helps everyone in the organization.
• Creating a safe place to fail within the company.
• Helping employees track their progress in their careers.
• Most impactful book, podcast, toy, tool that he uses.

You can learn more about Jason over at Electives.io. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How his nine-year-old self would look at his current career.
• Using our imagination to improve our careers/business.
• What he does when he notices a dip in his creativity.
• How he dealt with an embarrassing situation during high school.
• The importance of eating healthy.
• Bringing your fear to light so you don’t hide from it.
• What he fears and how he uses his fear to stay focused on what matters.
• How to use our failures as a growth opportunity.
• Staying true to your purpose.
• Understanding what you are trying to accomplish.
• Focusing on the little things are what turn into big improvements.
• Improving his systems within his business.
• Pivoting his role within the company to focus on his strengths.
• How he learned from Tim Ferriss to ask questions to help dig into the fear.
• Reframing the fear of public speaking.
• Building inner-awareness to help process your thoughts and emotions.
• Asking yourself really good questions.
• The importance of reflection to help improve your decision making process.
• The importance of writing things down when we are trying to an improve an aspect of our lives.
• How he cultivates gratitude in his life.
• Tapping into our kid-like part of ourselves.
• How he dealt with getting hit in the face with a baseball when he was in first grade.
• Most impactful book, podcast, toy as a kid and essential tool to help you grow.

You can learn more about Jake over at Jake A Thompson website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Being an authentic person and leader.
• Show up and do what we say we can do.
• Peeling away the armor to be a better leader.
• Why we care about what others think.
• We lean on caring about what we can control. Being relentlessly focused on what we can control.
• Showing up with great empathy.
• Why we must work on our inner voice to help us become more kind and compassionate.
• If we are fragile inside then it’s going to rip us apart.
• How he processed his thoughts and emotions after he stepped off the stage after he bombed in front of the audience.
• Using the growth mindset to improve as a speaker.
• How he views his inner voice as a connection to God.
• How science has shown that we need to struggle to thrive in our lives.
• The simple idea that challenges will change us.
• The faith that he has helps him stay focused on what is important.
• How being smaller has helped him succeed in life.
• The power of taking notes.
• Figuring out how to review your notes to improve how you remember and implement the ideas that come to you.
• The importance of observation.
• Choosing how to act upon our emotions.
• Leaning into strength based skills.
• Learning to improve the soft skills that are weak for us.
• Why vision is the most underutilized leadership skill.
• Finding your deeper purpose besides serving yourself.
• What he is working on to become a better dad.
• How his spiritual practice helps him stay centered.
• What John’s most impactful book, podcast and essential tool that he uses to stay focused on what truly matters.

You can learn more about John over at LearnLoft and John Eades website. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How he built his patience from helping his mom with her computer issues.
• How he developed his empathy.
• What his routine is around building self-awareness has helped him grow as a father and build his business.
• Being the person that isn’t surprised that someone hasn’t seen an amazing movie.
• How he describes his inner voice.
• Being a better parent though working with your emotions.
• Growing up in the 80’s and how parenting has changed.
• How his daughter helped him when he was having an anxiety attack.
• Why he sought therapy to help him with his relationship with his kids.
• How the culture of boys is different from 30 years ago.
• Pulling away the layers and seeing that we are all messed up.
• Building our empathy to help build better relationships.
• Struggles during the pandemic.
• How others perceive us is not how we perceive ourselves.
• The importance of self awareness in life.
• How he reduced his propensity to make snap judgements about others.
• Debunking our biases and how it helps us in our careers.
• Why negative stories are more fun, but we need to break this habit.
• Why parenting can feel like a total nightmare.
• Why he is so curious about things in his life.
• The importance of building something the “right way”, from his values.
• How he uses his journal to help him grow.
• How his journal helps him keep his life in proper perspective.
• How gratitude plays a big part in his life.
• We often forget the hard things, but it’s important to remember these things to help remind us of how good we have it now.
• How a gratitude
• Most impactful book, podcast and tool that he uses to stay focused.

You can learn more about Joe over at Casabona.org. You can also subscribe and listen to his “How I Built It” podcast. If you want to connect with him on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why she struggles with sharing negative things with friends and family.
• When she realized that she wasn’t being honest on social media.
• Why she ended up in the emergency room when on a ski trip with her family.
• What brings me joy?
• I surprise Robin with my answer to what joy feels like to me.
• Getting the meaning out of connections.
• Why we need to cultivate joy.
• Joy is about awareness.
• Research studies behind how joy affects the body.
• More joy lowers the rate of heart disease.
• Why she went on a silent retreat in her own home.
• The importance of slowing down to help heal.
• Giving yourself a little hiatus every now and again to help recharge her battery.
• How she deals with her failures.
• Dealing with burnout because she pushed herself in her business too hard.
• Why she did a small live event during the pandemic.
• Listening to her inner voice and letting it help guide her.
• Why gratitude helps people start peeling away their inner armor.
• Understanding how you feel in the moment and put a “feel good” score on it.
• Asking yourself questions like, “When was the last time I connected with my child?”
• The importance of celebrating the small things.
• Why she used her best China and served grilled cheese on these fancy dishes because she wanted to celebrate a flower popping out of the ground after a long cold winter.
• Robin’s most impactful book, podcast, speaker, and joyful moment in your life.

You can learn more about Robin over at Joy to the Coaching World. You can also connect with Robin over at LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• The importance of believing that you are worthy.
• How a moment when Jeffrey was 3 years old that changed how he viewed his life.
• What does it mean to live a hell of a journey?
• How much time do we give ourselves to really quiet down and listen?
• The importance of walking to help clear his head.
• How he uses his morning practice to go inward.
• He uses mantras to help keep him grounded.
• Blending science and art.
• How he reverses his thoughts and feelings when he feels like everything is going wrong.
• He created a journal to rewire how he thought about himself.
• Why he was drawn to write in his journal during the morning.
• What key point the movie “The Secret” left out.
• You have control over what you see.
• What if you only saw joy in your life?
• How to open to the truth.
• How he put the puzzle pieces together to understand who he really was.
• We grow farther when we see what other people see in us.
• Pay close attention to what we see in our students, co-workers, family members etc. so you can help them unlock new parts of themselves.
• What Jeffrey sees in me as an interviewer.
• Dealing with shyness as a kid.
• Putting yourself at the front of the line.
• Favorite book, podcast, speaker, movie and essential tool to stay focused on the important work.

You can learn more about Jeffrey over at JeffreyShaw.com. You can check out his books, Self Employed Life and Lingo on Amazon. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn to learn more about him.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How she noticed her strengths coming out in different ways.
• How she dealt with a horrible feel of public speaking.
• She deepened her knowledge on spiritual psychology and tapping techniques.
• Why she stopped doing one type of work pivoted her career.
• How she followed her curiosity in her career.
• How she merged strengths to help her stand out in your career and business.
• Why she interned for a radio station at an older age to help build her resume.
• Understanding how our personality types help us maintain good energy during our projects.
• Applying day job lessons to a side hustle.
• What word she uses instead of failure.
• What she did when her whole presentation blew up in front of a large crowd.
• What her process is when she is feeling overwhelmed.
• The power of laughter to help recover from a difficult situation.
• Spiritual space to help you stop taking yourself seriously.
• Just allowing the Universe/God/whatever you believe in energy flow through you.
• How we craft the stories in our heads.
• Shifting our mindset to help us focus on the positive.
• The practice of working with your mindset to quiet the negative voices in your head.
• How we can recognize false fears and not let them sweep us into a bad mental space.
• The benefit of not being able to finish a book during the pandemic.
• Respond to a difficult issue instead of just reacting.
• Her favorite book, podcast, speaker, favorite toy as a kid, and tool that she uses to stay focused on her essential tasks.

You can learn more about Teresa over at Work2Live Well. You can also check out her podcast, Mindful Moment, and connect with her on LinkedIn.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• What Gayle was like as a nine-year-old and how it helped form her identity.
• When she realized that she needed to make a change in her career.
• What she did to research her next career change.
• Digging into understanding what you really want.
• How she figured out how to develop a business that fit her personality.
• Going through burnout and what she did to overcome it.
• How she recharges her internal battery.
• How she has learned to reframe failures so she learns from the situation instead of ignore it.
• Doing purposeful work and why it’s so important.
• How she navigates her weakness of staying organized.
• Why we need to accentuate our strengths instead of improving our weaknesses.
• How she utilizes her strength of helping people see things differently.
• Building awareness to understand where to get support.
• Developing confidence to grow her career.
• Viewing a projects as an experiments
• Surrounding yourself with other people who can help you make good decisions.
• Removing the negative noise that holds you back.
• Gayle’s favorite book, podcast, speaker, toy as a kid and essential tool that she uses to focus on her essential work.

You can learn more about Gayle over at her website Work Matters. You can also connect with over at LinkedIn to learn more about her.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• Why he started his own business.
• How he learned from a sales manager that was able to get the best out of his staff.
• What was it like to be in the middle of the Las Vegas mass shooting and how it changed the trajectory of his life.
• How he used a traumatic experience to learn and grow from it.
• Why he lives every single day to be the best possible man that he can be every single day.
• What he fears and how he deals with it.
• How we view our obstacles and how to dig deeper when we need it the most.
• How to ask for help that will get you the help you need.
• How to get clear on how to ask for help.
• We haven’t been taught how to ask for referrals.
• Why we are afraid of doing things that can help us.
• Our egos and past stories hold us back.
• Why we are so afraid of rejection.
• How his faith has helped him deal with rejection.
• How kids ground us in the present moment.
• Kids have this ability to show us the value of love.
• The value of having an assistant help you with day to day tasks.
• Investing back in yourself to help you reach your goals.
• Why he focuses on helping men break free.
• The “do one more” thing mindset holds you back from enjoying life.
• What does having a life of freedom really mean.
• How Ryan peels away his armor to be his authentic self.
• Ryan’s favorite book, podcast, toy as a kid, and tool that he uses to stay focused on work.

You can learn more about Ryan over at his Website Ryan James Miller. You can also connect with him over at LinkedIn to learn more about him.

And as always if you have any questions or want to submit a guest for the podcast that you think would be amazing just reach out on Dig to Fly and I’ll do my best to get them on. If you love the interview please take 30 seconds to rate the Dig to Fly podcast on your favorite platform. Thanks!

Highlights from the interview:

• How Susan got into studying aging at University of Southern California.
• The importance of sticking with the research to discover insights.
• How to deal with an aging brain.
• The key to how older people handle tough situations.
• What younger people can learn from older adults about letting go of worries and frustrations.
• Building your self awareness to help you deal with the struggles in life.
• The power of keeping a gratitude journal to help your mindset.
• Why younger people are more likely to suffer from stress.
• Dealing with failure.
• How the successes will balance out the failures.
• You can play your heart out and lose, that’s ok.
• Building your resiliency is important at any age.
• Growth mindset and how to use it in your life.
• How our internal wiring affects the decisions that we make.
• People who tackle goals are happier.
• How to see what is holding you back from reaching your goals.
• Anxiety is common. 20% of people are experiencing it in their lives.
• Why researchers are neurotic.
• Surround yourself with people who have different strengths than you to build in powerful support.
• The importance of men sharing their feelings with their friends.
• The biggest difference between unhappy and happy couples.
• Her favorite book, podcast, speaker and tool that she uses to stay focused on her important work.