The Book Leads: Impactful Books For Life & Leadership

Episode 93: Melanie Herschorn & Her Book, Make a Big Impact with Your Book: Author Marketing Strategies for Long-Term Success

ABOUT MELANIE

Melanie wants to help you step into your spotlight as an authority. A publisher and book marketing expert for business owners, consultants, professionals and speakers worldwide, she’s on a mission to empower authors to share their message with the world. With her comprehensive background of over 20 years as a celebrity publicist, award-winning journalist in radio, print, and TV, as well as a clothing designer and entrepreneur, Melanie is uniquely positioned to support authors to step into thought leadership and make a big impact with their book. Her new book, Make a Big Impact with Your Book, is available now.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• "It's like a drug, and I was addicted"
• The power of looking back at everything you've done and what brought you joy to move forward.
• What feeling like your voice didn't matter then can mean for your voice today. "I always wondered what was wrong with me."
• The importance of what's happening now (as opposed to fiction).
• Intention is nothing without tactical execution when it comes to messaging.
• The reminder of coming back to something to bolster its messaging and credibility.
• Where is the enjoyment in your journey?

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Melanie is, How are you telling and empowering YOUR story? Are you telling it at all, or have you given up?

FIND MELANIE

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-herschorn/
• Website: https://vipbookmarketing.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melherschorn

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-93-melanie-herschorn-make-big-impact-your-john-m--ktzae/?trackingId=dukN9pJiRcWmw52F8mxlKg%3D%3D

VIDEO TIME STAMP

00:00 - Guest - Melanie Herschorn

00:49- Introduction & Bio

02:55 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

07:34- While in the field of publishing, what kind of shifts have you seen in the industry?

10:44- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

17:52- What was it that drew you to journalism and telling other people's stories?

21:53 - Does it make sense from who you were as a child that this is what you would be doing in your career?

29:14- What does leadership mean to you?

30:06- Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

33:20- Can you provide a general overview of the book?

43:48- A breakdown of the chapters in the book.

51:20 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

53:33 - Takeaways from a toxic relationship

56:30 - What's changed in you as a result of writing this book?

57:38- What book has inspired you?

01:00:54 - What’s next for your writing?

01:02:39- What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 92: Bernard Chong & Made In America: My Story by Sam Walton

ABOUT BERNARD

Bernard stands at the helm of a billion-dollar investment empire, seamlessly navigating traditional businesses and cutting-edge tech startups alike. His diverse portfolio spans industries from retail, real estate, and entertainment to food and beverage. His interests range from animation (ASI Studios) and radio communications (Energy FM) to food and beverage (Tim Hortons/Kko Kko), entertainment (RKB Productions), and IT (Thirty One Digital), among others. A luminary in the esports industry, Bernard gained international acclaim for founding the award-winning Bren Esports (now APBren) in 2017. Bernard's philanthropic endeavors are as extensive as his business ventures. As the co-owner of Synergy88 Studios, the Philippines' first Microsoft-accredited art supplier specializing in mobile games and 2D character designs, he contributes to the flourishing creative industry. His upcoming ventures include the U.S. expansion of Mendo Coffee Company, a new mobile app platform, housing developments in Panama, the BrenNetwork investment fund, and the launch of the BrenSEED Foundation—a global education-focused non-profit. Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Bernard is an avid Legos enthusiast, chess player, and comic book aficionado, with a particular fondness for Batman. Currently residing in Beverly Hills, CA, he is a devoted father and family man.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The power of trust in others.
• Understanding what someone is good at and getting out of their way.
• The importance of knowing one's blessings.
• Curiosity is key to understanding people
• What we can get from helping people with no expectations in return.
• Stepping away from work to relax.
• Needing to meet people with a colorful past.
• "We, as a leader, should really find every good person we can and try to get them and attract them and hopefully be aligned with them in how to go about business or shared dreams or shared projects."
• "When you meet a good employee, a good person, and you want to troubleshoot a different area, you just put the good person there and the value, the culture will suddenly change."

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Bernard is, How open, curious, and prepared are you for the opportunities and people in both the world you see and what's beyond its borders?

FIND BERNARD

• Website: linktr.ee/brenchong
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/iambrenchong
• LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-92-bernard-chong-sam-walton-made-america-john-m--8oowe/

CHAPTERS

00:00 - Guest - Bernard Chong

00:47 - Introduction & Bio

02:40 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

04:25- How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

24:50 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

28:58 - What does leadership mean to you?

32:23 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

36:40 - What lessons have you taken away from the book?

36:59 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 91: Carl Grant III & His Book, How To Live The Abundant Life

ABOUT CARL

Carl Grant III lives in Austin, TX and is the married father of five adult children. He’s the Author of “How to Live the Abundant Life,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Carl is CEO of Capital Raise and Connexa Holdings, LLC, is Chairman of Cationic Mineral Formulations, Inc., and is a partner in Super Connector, LLC. Previously, Carl served as global head of business development for Cooley, during which the firm’s annual revenue grew from $310M to over $2B. He was the first business development hire at PricewaterhouseCoopers where he grew revenue 33% in his market. He is the founder of the SxSW Sunday Service and the High Tech Prayer Breakfast – DC Metro, Inc. 

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The connection between service in the U.S. Army and service mentioned in the Bible
• What it looks like to have a more holistic approach to living life
• How Carl's book has opened up a dialogue between the East and the West based on his study of both the Bible and the Quran.
• "Work hard but rest."
• How you can serve others with success yet set boundaries for yourself

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Carl is, What is the faith that drives you to make the most of what you can in your work and community? (It doesn't even need to be religion.)

FIND CARL

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlgrant/
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/carlgrant
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlgrant
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carl.grant.iii/
• Buy The Book:  https://a.co/d/7X3lBoY

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-91-carl-grant-iii-how-live-abundant-life-john-m--0ucde/?trackingId=FYASqhTcSzuX3v7tZeBlJQ%3D%3D

CHAPTERS

00:00 – The Book Leads – Carl Grant III

00:48 - Introduction & Bio

01:54 - Who Carl is today and more information on his work

06:13 - Carl's career path to today

13:06 - How Carl went from atheist to finding his life with and under God

26:17 - How Carl's work today reconciles to who he was in his childhood

27:55 - What leadership means to Carl

32:49 - Carl's introduction to his book

42:20 - Carl's general overview of the book (& books that have inspired Carl)

47:54 - A certain part of the book that resonates most with people

52:40 - Lessons Carl learned in the process of writing the book

01:04:46 - What’s next for Carl's writing

01:07:02 - Lessons Carl hopes others take away from his book

01:09:34 - What Carl is up to these days

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 90: Autumn Carolynn & Her Book, Traveling in Wonder: A Travel Photographer's Tales of Wanderlust

ABOUT AUTUMN

Autumn received her bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis in creative writing from Illinois State University and Canterbury Christ Church University. She is a published author with Spoon River Poetry Review and has worked as an on-air DJ for two radio stations. Autumn produced a creative writing segment aired on WGLT, an NPR station, which introduced writers from all over the Midwest and allowed them to share their work on air. Beyond her literary achievements, Autumn is an award-winning travel photographer, owner of Autumn Carolynn Photography. Her works can be found in multiple galleries, including the prestigious Northrup King Building, one of the largest art complexes in the United States.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• What Autumn brings into her life, work, and connections as a result of the severe bullying experienced early in her life
• How getting lost in travel was Autumn's flow state.
• How empathy and connection plays into great leadership
• What resilience can look like and really mean, what we see in it and what we don't
• Some of the Nordic traditions Autumn practices (and which the U.S. could stand to incorporate in its own culture) to achieve more mindfulness, fulfillment, and happiness.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Autumn is, How would a lifetime of your life's journals read? What would you take away from each of those chapters in life?

FIND AUTUMN

• Website: https://www.autumncarolynn.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/autumn-carolynn-26a1232a8/

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-90-autumn-carolynn-traveling-wonder-travel-john-m--6fjfe/?trackingId=jrGbq58ZSCOFv82%2FPLsXng%3D%3D

TIME STAMP

00:00 – The Book Leads – Autumn Carolynn

00:50- Introduction & Bio

02:19 - Who Autumn is today and information about her work

03:07 - What her career path looked like up until now

08:48 - How Autumn found her way into photography

17:35 - How Autumn's work reconciles to who she was as a child

18:54 - What leadership means to Autumn

20:11 - What Autumn has taken away from the painful experience of bullying

26:06 - Introduction to Autumn's book

31:31 - Autumn's journey and relationship with Anxiety

37:28 - A breakdown of the parts of the book

43:38 - Autumn's experience in the Noridic country vs. the U.S.

50:13 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

53:54 - What supported to Autumn's resilience

57:42 - What's next for Autumn's writing

59:02 - What Autumn hopes readers take away from her book

01:02:13 - The books that have inspired Autumn

01:03:26 - What else Autumn wants to share about her work

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 89: Hiba Khaled & Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive Through the Dangers of Leading by Ronald A. Heifetz & Martin Linsky

ABOUT HIBA

Dr. Hiba Khaled is a co-founder of Embers, a consulting and coaching firm helping individuals and organizations recover from burnout to achieve healthy high performance. With a background in medicine and leadership training at Harvard under the mentorship of Professors Ron Heifetz and Tim O'Brien, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals and organizations achieve success from a place of health. A survivor of burnout herself, Hiba is on a mission to balance performance with well-being. When she's not busy transforming lives, you can find her out in nature, drinking tea, or diving into a good book.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• What work-life balance really is.
• What "I'm fully there" means.
• The power of your Flow state.
• "What is the ecosystem within you first before you can think about the ecosystem outside of you?"
• How stress can manifest in us.
• "Be of service, be of service, be of service."
• A story showing..."You can make a small difference...you don't have to make a huge change."
• An example of how being destabilized can be good for you.
• Doing what you need to do, despite it feeling like a loss to or disappointment by others.
• Why Hiba doesn't subscribe to using the word "leader."
• What it means to "exercise leadership."
• The difference between a technical challenge and an adaptive challenge.
• Why leadership means asking someone (or a group) to sustain losses.
• What it means to "manage your hungers."
• Renegotiating loyalties to ancestors to work toward solutions today.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Hiba is, How can we adapt to the outside world and avoid its usual repercussions by instead first doing the deep work internally within ourselves?

FIND HIBA

• Website: emberscc.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-hiba-khaled
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamhibakhaled/
• Personal Blog: https://feelittohealit.substack.com

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-89-hiba-khaled-leadership-line-staying-alive-john-m--1swnf/?trackingId=8o%2F69dg3T5C15dbdIH9Vwg%3D%3D

TIME STAMP

00:00 – The Book Leads – Hiba Khaled

00:49 - Introduction & Bio

01:49 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

06:31 - Hiba's work and philosophy on "work-life balance"

19:35 - Planning for one's best work

30:10 - The role of women and men and their relationship to stress

38:53 - How did your path into your career begin, and what did it look like up until now?

48:46 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

51:35 - What does leadership mean to you?

55:16- Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

58:31- Hiba's main takeaways from the book

01:02:25 - A breakdown of the book.

01:05:51 - What changed in Hiba after reading the book?

01:12:41 - The power of nuance and the need for another podcast episode to dive into nuance itself.

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 88: Fabienne Guichon-Lindholm & Her Book, Unapologetically Bold: How To Regain Self-Confidence Using The Transformation Cycle While Climbing The Corporate Ladder

ABOUT FABIENNE

Fabienne is a seasoned global learning and development executive with over three decades of experience in coaching and motivating teams and individuals. Through her business, Fabienne Lindholm Rev Ups Your Life, she helps professionals - particularly women – become confident leaders who drive positive change and transformation. As a renowned speaker, facilitator, and professional coach, she has dedicated her career to promoting wellness and education worldwide, sharing her knowledge on management styles, skincare, and well-being. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Fabienne led the global education department of a cosmetic company, where she supported teams and professionals across the globe. With over 30 years of executive management experience in the beauty and wellness industry, she managed spa teams and operations for luxury hotels like the Waldorf Astoria and consulted with HARPO STUDIO in the U.S. In the past ten years, she has focused on learning and development, training, and consulting with thousands of individuals, primarily women. Beyond her professional life, Fabienne has a passion for promoting wellness, traveling to 60 countries, and lecturing on four continents. Her unapologetically bold, optimistic, compassionate, and funny personality has won over audiences worldwide. She has honed her discipline, resilience, and determination as a marathon runner, completing five marathons. Fluent in French and English, Fabienne describes herself as self-made.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• How people misunderstand coaching, and how it's actually like magic. (I agree 100%)
• How coaching is a massage for the brain.
• We overcomplicate everything when simple will do just fine, including in coaching.
• The power of your first experience in anything and the belief box you build from there.
• The idea of reconsidering what you believed caused your burn-out in the past.
• The power behind the Transformation Cycle of Regroup, Relive, Remotion.
• "Most people don't even see us failing. We only see ourselves."

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Fabienne is, How can you use your past to find your heart and authenticity and move forward unapologetically bold?

FIND FABIENNE

• Website: www.fabiennegl.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabienne-guichon-lindholm-37a1436/
• FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Fabienne-Lindholm-keynote-speaker/100054524737520/
• Threads: https://www.threads.net/@fabienne.g.l
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/fabienne.g.l/

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-88-fabienne-guichon-lindholm-unapologetically-john-m--adloe/?trackingId=ar37ccplQqiMR%2Bpc5Px94Q%3D%3D

TIME STAMP

00:00 – The Book Leads – Fabienne Guichon-Lindholm

00:47 Introduction & Bio

03:32 Who are you today? Can you provide more background on your work?

13:55 How did your path into your career look like?

27:25 What called her to the philosophy behind her company and mission?

30:06 How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

32:51 What does leadership mean to you?

35:52 Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

39:41 The meaning behind the transformation cycle of Regroup, Relive, Remotion.

51:57 General overview of the book / Breakdown of the chapters in the book.

53:32 Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

55:49 What lessons have you taken away from the book?

01:00:56 What’s next for your writing?

01:02:28 What book has inspired you?

01:04:29 What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. Check out the series!

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 87: Alyssa Berthiaume (she/her) (returning guest from Episode 46) & Co-Author Bridgett McGowen, & Their Book, Do Not Write a Book...Until You Read This One: The Only Guide You Need to Pen, Publish, and Profit from Your Nonfiction Book

ABOUT BRIDGETT & ALLY

Bridgett is an award-winning international professional speaker; an award-winning author; and an award-winning publisher and owner of the hybrid publishing company, Press 49.

Ally is an award-winning author; international book coach, developmental editor and ghostwriter; and the founder and CEO of The Write Place, Right Time.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The Trifecta - 3 main things Ally and Bridgett wish clients knew before they started writing a book.
• What the CEO mindset means when it comes to writing your book.
• What they themselves would have done differently with their own first books.
• Writing from the power of your voice and experience versus merely prompting it in AI.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Aly & Bridgett is, Are you ready to write the book you have inside you?

FIND BRIDGETT

• Website: connectwithb.com
• Website: bridgettmcgowen.com
• Website: press49.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bmcgowen
• Podcast: https://www.bridgettmcgowen.com/podcast

FIND ALLY

• Website: ayberthiaume.com/
• Website: thewriteplacerighttime.com
• linktr.ee: linktr.ee/writerboss
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ayberthiaume

LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-87-alyssa-berthiaume-bridgett-mcgowen-book-do-john-m--d5bbe/?trackingId=fV1ACKn9TZmS1pTr%2FK%2F%2Fkg%3D%3D

VIDEO TIME STAMP

00:00 – The Book Leads – Alyssa Berthiaume & Bridgett McGowen

00:53 - Introduction & Bio

02:21 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

06:04 - What does leadership mean to you?

07:49 - What brought you two together?

10:25 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

14:49 - Can you provide a general overview of the book, including chapters?

26:52 - What does it feel like to look back on your writing and book projects?

37:44 - What do you believe the writing and book-publishing industry will look like with AI gaining traction in creating books?

58:47 - What book has inspired you?

01:03:41 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 86: Joseph Rockey Jr & His Book, Casino Sales Master: Proven System to Beat the Odds in Sales and Life

ABOUT JOE

Joe is a serial business creator and founder. He has created a number of successful entities from scratch that have lived well beyond a decade long, which is an incredibly rare feat in any industry, let alone in the world of real estate, in which he began. Currently, Joe runs and operates Elite Business Conversations, a specialty coaching and consulting firm that help (1) individuals and companies who are scared to death because they are seeing their stream of revenue dwindling; (2) companies who are fed up with substandard business cultures; and (3) owners who are living in a broken relationship with their company and as a result it is not giving the time, money, or impact that the owners want.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The power of questioning everything, and not just accepting what you're handed or told.
• The exercise of leaving a memo for your child, and how it can teach you about yourself.
• Leaving the merely transactional approach to relationships behind.
• Why sales will change the world.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Joe is, How can you exceed your networking game by bolstering the underlying foundation of it -- your relationship- and connection-building?

FIND JOE

• Website: www.EliteBusinessConversations.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joerockey
• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/father-and-joe/id1201053379
• LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-86-joseph-rockey-jr-casino-sales-master-beat-john-m--kcaje/?trackingId=7f4eATm1QYG1UNTHVJuuEg%3D%3D

VIDEO TIME STAMP

0:00 – The Book Leads – Joseph Rockey Jr.

0:55 - Introduction & Bio

3:14 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

15:42 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

24:22 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

30:41 - What does leadership mean to you?

33:00 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

39:27 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?

51:58 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book.

55:19 - What lessons have you taken away from the book?

58:30 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

01:02:39- What’s next for your writing?

01:04:40 - What book has inspired you?

01:07:15 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 85: Annie Margarita Yang & Her Book, The 5-Day Job Search: Proven Strategies To Answering Tough Interview Questions & Getting Multiple Job Offers

ABOUT ANNIE

Annie Margarita Yang is the definitive voice in Millennial finance, specializing in strategies for beating today’s tough economic challenges. She is the author of an award-winning, best-selling new book, The 5-Day Job Search, which helps young professionals get out of student loan debt while finding the ideal job. With more than 1 million views on YouTube, her witty approach to tough talk sets her apart from others. Annie’s candid style cuts through the noise, delivering foolproof advice for real-world challenges. Far from generic tips, her tips focus on practical steps to quickly improve finances, especially for challenges unique to Millennials. Based in Boston with her husband, Annie complements her professional life with a love for piano, adding another layer to her multifaceted persona.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• What a driver being frustrated (or even pissed off) about what other people are doing can be in driving you forward.
• The multiplier effect and leaving an lasting impact with someone.
• How life and work are all about (1) Possibilities, (2) Preparation, and (3) Opportunities

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Annie is, Do people know what you're capable of? Do you?

FIND ANNIE

• Website: https://www.anniemargaritayang.com/
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annieyangfinancial
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnnieMargaritaYang
• Blog: https://www.anniemargaritayang.com/blog/
• LinkedIn – Full Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-85-annie-margarita-yang-5-day-job-search-john-m--pygxe/?trackingId=wjGAK1N3jrgOwd26QOHm4Q%3D%3D

TIME STAMP

00:00 - The Book Leads - Annie Margarita Yang

00:56 - Introduction & Bio

2:08 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

4:28 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

11:10 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

18:42 - What does leadership mean to you?

25:38 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing and why did you write it?

36:07 - How did you structure the book? What was the path you wanted people to follow?

39:46 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

47:31 - Can you share the Chapter Titles?

53:25 - What lessons have you taken away

from the book?

01:00:34- What’s next for your writing?

01:03:49 - What book has inspired you?

01:08:51 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 84: Chaya Topas & Her Book, When We Visit You...

ABOUT CHAYA

Chaya is a mom of three who takes the approach that it's better to laugh than to try. Her attitude towards raising kids is to not take yourself too seriously and to give kids an opportunity to figure their things out. Chaya began writing as a way to express how she felt about raising great kids in these volatile times and in doing so, she finally found her passion. Chaya wrote a children's book about a running joke between her husband and herself that one day, when their children were grown up, they would do all the crazy things their kids used to do in their own homes. It was a joke that has eased the tension of trying to get their kids to listen to them without getting angry and frustrated. And it was every parent's revenge fantasy come to life! Chaya has been featured on local television, and websites, social media feeds, and has done readings in schools. Raising children is a crapshoot, you don't know what you're going to get and you never know if your reactions and decisions will cause years of therapy or the most well-adjusted kids on the planet. Chaya loves exploring and analyzing that idea.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The power of raising kids to be very good people.
• The conversations we have with ourselves when we think we don't have a passion.
• How your contributions to your community can protect you against feeling isolated.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Chaya is, Whether you're a parent or not, what lessons are you sharing forward to help shape the future of your family and/or community?

FIND CHAYA

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chaya.topaslisitza/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chayatopas/
• Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ChayaTopas
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chayatopas/
• LinkedIn - Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-84-chaya-topas-when-we-visit-you-john-m-jaramillo-mba-msop-wyc3e/?trackingId=iqQsVQi2QFi1GIdLoN414Q%3D%3D

PURCHASE THE BOOK

• Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/ChayaTopasBook
• Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/chaya%20topas

TIME STAMP

0:00 - The Book Leads – Chaya Topas

0:52 - Chaya Introduction & Bio

3:01 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

8:17 - How did your career start, and what did it look like up until now?

20:42 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

21:50 - What does leadership mean to you?

27:21 - Can you speak to having found your passion in life through writing?

28:09 - What do you hope parents take away from this book?

26:11 - What lessons have you taken away from the book?

32:04 - What book has inspired you?

34:18 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 83: Ryan Penley & His Book, Man Up. Sober Up: Eight Powerful Steps to Reclaim Respect, Conquer Isolation, and Thrive in Recovery

ABOUT RYAN

As a rock-bottom alumnus, Ryan has transformed his life's adversities into valuable lessons for those still struggling with addiction. Today, he lives a life that is unimaginably blessed, exceeding even his own expectations. His debut book, "Man Up. Sober Up.," serves as both a testament to his resilience and a practical guide for those seeking to reclaim control over their lives. Homelessness, being wanted in three states, being accused of murder by his mother, and visiting death lying in a coma are some of the circumstances that outline Ryan's rock bottom. This journey led to a purpose and dedication for people suffering from addiction and alcoholism. More than a survivor, Ryan is a beacon of hope for those still battling their demons. He demonstrates that from the depths of despair it is indeed possible to forge a life filled with purpose and joy.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The power of starting with tiny wins
• "I know what I don't want to be. I don't want to be her."
• Without a test, there is no testimony. Ryan is now crafting his testimony.
• The power of healthy fear.
• "I never lose. I either win or learn." Nelson Mandela

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Ryan is, How are you empowering your movement forward -- even if it is the fear of something in that past that keeps you motivated?

FIND RYAN

• Website: myrockbottomrecovery.com
• Website: ryanpenley.org
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/myrockbottomrecovery
• LinkedIn Podcast Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-83-ryan-penley-man-up-sober-eight-powerful-john-m--ynufe/?trackingId=2UPymTKyRpC444gScH8sgA%3D%3D

Time Stamp

0:00 – The Book Leads – Ryan Penley

0:44 - Guest Bio

1:59 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

6:38 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

19:30 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

23:43 - What does leadership mean to you?

23:59 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

28:43 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?

30:38 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book.

46:22 - Is there a certain part of the book that was harder to write, a deeper introspection to reach to write it?

50:06 - What lessons have you taken away from the book?

52:57- What’s next for your writing?

54:09 - What book has inspired you?

56:28 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

This series has become my Masterclass In Humanity. I'd love for you to join me and see what you take away from these conversations.

• Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:
• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Google Podcasts
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Read About The Book Leads – Blog Post

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons, if you haven't already!

Episode 82: Samantha Buckley-Hugessen & Her Book, Unstuck Yourself: The Guide To Designing A Life You Love

In this episode, Samantha, a U.S Certified Coach originally from Seattle Washington and now an ex-pat living in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, walks me through her experience of living life and working to empower others, in the process changing the world by design instead of existing by default.

Interestingly, Samantha's story is similar to that of other guests in the general sense that she was working in one direction, became successful, and achieved her goals -- but something was missing. Something just didn't feel right. Her values weren't quite being espoused in the work she was doing.

It's plain and simple: We're either going to live our life by design or by default. Which one will you choose?

Conversation Highlights

• How a rocky childhood or past, or being a victim at one time, for one person blossoms into service to others, breaking the generational trauma chain.
• What we need for ourselves based on our childhoods.
• What people misunderstand about codependency.
• The power of having a great example of what NOT to do - "You can control it if you take responsibility for things."
• Discussing the pillars of her book: time, freedom, money, freedom.
• The problem with blowing a cylinder
• Don't be a shit magnet

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Samantha is, How do you live your life -- by design or default?

FIND SAMANTHA

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthabh/
• Website: yourcoachandtrainer.com
• Blog: yourcoachandtrainer.com/coaching-blog/
• LinkedIn The Book Leads Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/episode-82-samantha-buckley-hugessen-unstuck-yourself-john-m--lbfje/?trackingId=1oU11vI6S%2FeK3FdEXxdDgg%3D%3D

TIME STAMP

0:00 - The Book Leads - Samantha Buckley-Hugessen

0:58 - Intro

2:29 - Who are you today? Can you provide more information about your work?

7:27 - How did your path into your career look like, and what did it look like up until now?

20:46 - How does the work you're doing today reconcile to who you were as a child?

24:21 - What does leadership mean to you?

25:09 - Can you introduce us to the book we’re discussing?

32:07 - Can you provide a general overview of the book?

50:07 - A breakdown of the chapters in the book.

58:39 - Is there a certain part of the book that resonates most with people?

59:26 - What lessons have you taken away from the book?

1:01:38 - What’s next for your writing?

1:02:49 - What are you up to these days? (A way for guests to share and market their projects and work.)

For more great content, subscribe to my newsletter Last Week's Leadership Lessons!

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 81: Mboone Umbima, MSOD & Her Book, Reflect and Renew: A New Year Workbook

This is Mboone's second visit to The Book Leads Podcast. In March of 2022, in Episode 20, Mboone shared with me the story behind the message of and vision for her book, Thank You: The 29 Day Gratitude Challenge.

In this episode, Mboone shares some best practices she's developed for assessing her life at the turn of each New Year. For instance, one of her many practices is going through her phone's pictures to remember the energy of the moments throughout the year as the days went by. This process helps her tie moments to the energy she wants to keep and expand on that while recognizing the energy that serves no purpose and should be jettisoned.

When it comes to her books, Thank You sought to offset the fear borne out of the uncertainty during the COVID-19 panedemic while Reflect and Renew seeks to build off that understanding of gratitude in a more strategic focus to determine what has served us and what has not in our our approach to life and work. It serves as a guide to help the reader truly, deeply, and carefully reflect.

I love the energy Mboone brings to everything she does, whether it's her work in wildlife conservation through the David Rio foundation, her leadership role at David Rio Chai & Tea, Inc., or her numerous memberships across various boards she serves on in her community.

She provides a reminder for us to get ourselves right -- to align our lives and work with our hearts and values -- so we can bring the best of ourselves to the world around us.

It's an ongoing process to recognize and reinforce the energies we want to keep while calling out and letting go of the energies we don't.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• How she and the family members who inspired to serve the greater good her are in the people business and making the world a better place business.
• How painting a vision, as Martine Luther King, Jr. did, creates permanence in which that vision can outlive the leaders who created it.
• Everything is energy, and it's the flow of energy that creates.
• Ego is about survival, not thinking.
• What would happen if you chose change instead of change choosing you?

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Mboone is, How do you review your life and work to determine what is working for you and what is not?

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Thank You: The 29 Day Gratitude Challenge by Mboone
• Untamed by Glennon Doyle
• Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
• The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
• Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Gilbert, Elizabeth

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE PAST EPISODES

• Episode 11: Jessica Mand & Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration
• Episode 58: Camille L. Miller, MBA, Ph.D. ABD and her book, The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul-Aligned Business: 25 Practical Strategies From The Experts
• Episode 63: Nancy Burger & Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming A Life Of Meaning And Possibility In A World Obsessed With Productivity
• Episode 71: Dr. Bridget Cooper (Cannon) & Her Book Unflappable: How Smart People Quit Overthinking, Ditch the Drama, & Thrive at Work

LEARN MORE ABOUT MBOONE: https://linktr.ee/mmboneumbima

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 80: Don Schmincke & His Book, Winners and Losers: Entrepreneurial Lessons from 30,000 CEOs on How to Come Out on Top

For everything he's done in his career -- from dropping out of high school to getting his BS in Planetary Physics at MIT, a Master's Degree in Human Behavior (and teaching at) Johns Hopkins University, and traversing the world, travelling 200,000 miles a year to work with countless companies and explore to understand ancient civilizations -- Don, an explorer, scientist, and author, still considers himself, first and foremost, a teacher.

No one I've interviewed or spoken to before Don can claim to do, collaborate and write on as much research as he can where he seeks understand the biological make-up of who we are as a species.

Where the curiosity most of us have is limited to what's within our reach, Don has gone off to explore different corners of the world to see it first-hand.

And his expeditions and research turn most of the ideas we have of leadership on their head. His discoveries stem from that insatiable curiosity to learn about the world and history of its civilizations, and can help us be more honest with ourselves -- to understand ourselves.

He takes those lessons learned and applies them to corporate and entrepreneurial strategy, leadership, culture, structure, and sales.

What intrigued me the most in talking to Don was his work in (and desire to continue) busting myths -- dismantling current understandings of how the world and leadership work. From his research and "organizational autopsies," he's realized that what we think works in leadership actually doesn't.

Nothing is cookie-cutter, and times change, so of course it's important to keep learning -- and rethinking -- what we (think we) know.

• Conversation Highlights
• "Why is it that great leaders with great leadership styles crash the company but an asshole can dominate the world?"
• "Followers don't follow leaders; they follow the saga you represent."
• Ancient wisdom of...: "We must keep in mind constantly, by day and night, the fact that some day we must die."
• The power of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) not being a disorder but being order instead, and how it's contributed to Don's (and other's) success.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Don is, How do you continue exploring (and busting myths) to ensure you're not becoming to complacent or blinded?

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Don's Other Books
• The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (A Little) Craziness and (A Lot of) Success in America by John D. Gartner
• Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared M. Diamond

ABOUT DON

Don is the author of the Best-Selling book The Code of the Executive: Forty-Seven Ancient Samurai Principles Essential for Twenty-First Century Leadership Success, and has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today. He is an Award-Winning Speaker, Researcher, Founder of the SAGA Leadership Institute and delivered over 1,700 speeches. Don's other books include High Altitude Leadership: What the World's Most Forbidding Peaks Teach Us About Success, Unleash Your Potential: How Artificial Intelligence Wants to Upgrade YOU!, and Winners and Losers: Entrepreneurial Lessons from 30,000 CEOs on How to Come Out on Top.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DON

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donschmincke/
• Twitter: @schmincke
• Website: https://www.sagaleadership.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 79: Tom Hine, CFP®, CFS®, MBA & His Book, The Balanced Wealth Approach: Secrets To Living Long And Living Rich

In this episode, Tom, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, author, and founder and CEO of Capital Wealth Management, shares with me how there should be comparable focus on both wealth and health when it comes to our futures -- even in his field of wealth management.

Through his own journey in finance (the numbers) and karate, meditation, yoga (the physical and the mind), he demonstrates that he's living what he's preaching.

The message he shares with his clients, into which he does a deep dive with me here, is a great reminder that we can't take anything for granted. The world is changing, and so how we respond to and live within it also needs to change and become both more intentional and mindful. "You need a 5G mindset to live within a 5G world."

What I appreciated most in Tom's message in his book and in the thoughts he shares here is the reminder to be healthier so that we can enjoy what we've accomplished.

That wisdom was sparked in Tom when he chose to focus more on his health, through karate as a younger professional, instead of merely climbing the corporate ladder. Financial and career success would not be sufficient to uphold and maintain his mindset.

"Drastic times call for drastic measures." This well-known quote comes to mind as Tom talks about how we have to offset all the negative in the world and work on ourselves to achieve the best performance and strongest longevity to move forward and enjoy ourselves and our communities.

We need to look for, take into account, and harness what it is we can control to make progress for ourselves.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• You want to be the CEO of your own health
• When the mind is quiet, the world will show itself to you
• Don’t be afraid to go back to the past and figure out what makes you whole
• “A healthy person has a thousand wishes, a sick person only one” (Don't take that for granted.)

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Tom's Other Books
• What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles
• The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success Hardcover by Dan Sullivan & Dr.Benjamin Hardy
• Life Force: How New Breakthroughs in Precision Medicine Can Transform the Quality of Your Life & Those You Love Hardcover by Tony Robbins, Peter H. Diamandis, Robert Hariri

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Tom is, How are you focusing on health in order to move forward with longevity, ensuring you're not taking what you have for granted?

ABOUT TOM

Tom Hine is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and the author of The Balanced Wealth Approach: Secrets to Living Long and Living Rich. He has over three decades of experience in the industry and is the founder and CEO of Capital Wealth Management in Glastonbury, CT. However, what makes Tom unique is his holistic approach to financial planning. He believes that true success is not just about building wealth but also about maintaining good health so that you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. Drawing from his background as a financial planner and a fourth-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, Tom aims to incorporate health and wellness into his financial strategies. Tom hopes to help his clients work towards their financial goals while also inspiring them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TOM

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinetom/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/CapitalWealthCT
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapitalWealthCT
• Website: https://thebalancedwealthapproach.com/
• Company: www.capitalwm.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 78: Steve Morris & The EOS Life: How To Live Your Ideal Entrepreneurial Life by Gino Wickman.

Steve, a Business Coach with an educational background in mechanical engineering and aerodynamics, is someone who is focused on performance -- of every kind. He is another great example of who someone is today being the culmination of all their experiences to date.

His educational and career journeys took him from being a mechanical engineering student, to working on and designing racing yachts, to coaching teams based on his experience working with those racing teams.

Each successive experience builds on the previous, leading Steve's curiosity to move from the mechanical to the emotional, from systems to people. Since he was a child, he's been fascinated with taking things apart and studying them to see how they function.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The power of having the right people in the right seats to make a really great team.
• Curiosity of systems and the technical vs. that of feeling and relationships
• Paying attention to what we are triggered by when it comes to how we show up and who we are being
• A huge component of successful leaders is knowing thyself

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman
• Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World by William H. McRaven
• Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Steve is, How do you reassess the stability, foundation, and drivers of what you have built, including yourself, to continue -- and improve upon -- it?

ABOUT STEVE

Steve had a really cool and interesting start to his career designing multi-million dollar racing yachts and building and coaching high performing teams to help his clients win the world’s most demanding yacht races. He has run and grown a small business, and then transitioned his career to become a certified PMP program manager managing million dollar budgets and helping the US Navy launch ships into the fleet. Eight years ago he started his own business with the mission to help business owners build better lives through building better businesses, getting unstuck, fueling growth, achieving more profit and having more fun with their crew. Steve’s passion is bringing his expertise, experience, and lessons learned with world-leading high-performance teams to help his clients elevate their businesses, becoming more cohesive, healthy and organized, so they can attain the results and success they want. In addition to navigating the voyage to success with his clients, Steve is an avid learner and practitioner of techniques that elevate his mindset and physical fitness, such as breath work, hiking, yoga and meditation, as he journeys on the path to the Centenarian Olympics. He and his partner, Kathy, are also building a permaculture food forest on their farm in Hygiene, CO.

LEARN MORE ABOUT STEVE

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenamorris/

Website: www.eosworldwide.com/stephen-morris ­

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE EPISODES

• Episode 53: Laura Darrell & Wooden on Leadership by John Wooden
• Episode 56: Connor DeLaney and I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships by Michael Sorenson
• Episode 67: Holly Jackson & Her Book, Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets For Raving Success
• Episode 69: Corinne Coppola & The Gift 12 Lessons to Save Your Life by Dr. Edith Eger

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 77: Joe Weston & His Book, Mastering Respectful Confrontation: A Guide to Personal Freedom and Empower, Collaborative Engagement

With a career spanning 30+ years in the fields of conflict prevention, leadership, stress management, and communication, the wisdom Joe shares in this conversation and through his books seems to be more timely (and deeply needed) these days than ever.

Having first started out as an actor -- and then teaching his own method -- and specializing in communication, Joe has been drawn to the power of connection and understanding that can lead us as a species to either become more cohesive and connected or fall to disconnection and distrust.

It says a lot about Joe's work and character that, while I look at this conversation and see the fear we all have inside of us that leads to that disconnection, he sees, believes, and is pulled more toward the hope that exists and that is out there.

Although he's hopeful, he knows it takes work -- in understanding both ourselves and others.

Before looking to the outside world and either saying our needs aren't being met or believing another's needs are not as important as our own, we need to look inward, into our hearts, to see what this life should be all about.

Do we want to allow it all to fall apart around us, or take responsibility and contribute as much as we can -- no matter how little or how much -- to creating ripple effects of support, concern, and community?

Each of us is more powerful than we believe. In my coaching, I've see most of us don't understand this. We leave too much ability, desire, and skill on the table by underestimating ourselves. We need to turn that around.

Conversation Highlights

• "Unfortunately, the planet is filled with an enormous amount of information gatherers who haven't learned very much."
• The problems in our world are complicated. The solutions are simple. But implementation is hard work.
• The dangers of Chronic Niceness
• The Power of Assertiveness vs. The Pitfall of Aggression
• How Joe's work helps you get physical vitality, emotional stability, mental clarity, and spiritual grounding

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Joe is, How do you balance understanding who you really are and what you need/want with your responsibility in what the world needs?

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE EPISODES

• Episode 61: Hesha Abrams & her book, Holding The Calm: The Secret To Resolving Conflict And Defusing Tension
• Episode 69: Corinne Coppola & The Gift 12 Lessons to Save Your Life by Dr. Edith Eger
• Episode 70: Oakland McCulloch & His Book, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be

ABOUT JOE

Joe Weston is an international thought leader, facilitator, author, lecturer, consultant, coach, professor, and—above all else—an advocate for lasting peace. With a career spanning 30+ years in the fields of conflict prevention, leadership, stress management, and communication, he is a highly sought-after facilitator for individuals, as well as corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits around the world. As founder and owner of the Weston Network based in Washington, D.C., Joe and his international team provide training, consulting, and coaching based on his methodology, called Respectful Confrontation®. Through a network of 30+ certified facilitators and even more allies and collaborators in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, people from all walks of life have greatly benefited from Joe’s highly effective methodology—from corporate innovators and entrepreneurs, government agencies, INGOs, educators, healthcare workers, parents, and young adults. More

LEARN MORE ABOUT JOE

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-weston-a6327931/

Website: joeweston.com

Website: respectfulconfrontation.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 76: Cindy Gersch & Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life by Roxie Nafousi

For this conversation, Cindy, an Entrepreneur and Rare Disease Advocate, walks me through how her life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) in 2018. Cindy shares that she lost almost everything -- her husband, her running, her job, most of her friends -- she felt made her who she was at that point -- her identity.

A close brush with death woke her up, though, showing her she could be a healthy person living with a disease instead of an unhealthy person living with a disease. She made that intentional choice and moved forward, doing what she does best -- telling stories.

Having studied broadcast journalism and spent years as reporter -- a natural storyteller -- she founded her own company and later became an advocate for those living with FMD. It was through that advocacy path of her journey that she realized her purpose had put her on a stronger path than she might have otherwise experienced had she never gone through her painful health challenges.

Tough days, tough experiences -- how do they change us and what do we get out of them? Everything happens for a reason. It's up to us to explore and understand what that reason may be, no matter how painful, no matter how ugly those experiences are.

Purpose has almost become cliché, brought up so often that with each mention it loses some meaning. I recently had a conversation with college business students, sharing with them that they would know when they met theirs. That it's not the same path for everyone -- but they would know it. And that it fell on them, if they wanted to find it, to stay curious and hungry enough to keep exploring.

Don't underestimate the power of purpose, that insatiable personal fire, fuel, and driver. Cindy herself here shares how much more she gets out of life now that she has that purpose that fires her up. 

Conversation Highlights

• Even though things may feel as down as they can be, there is always a silver lining.
• The value of having the 1 dime (true friend) vs. 10 pennies (friends who might not come through)
• We don't give ourselves enough love.
• What would the letters you would write to your younger self say?

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Cindy is, In life, especially in those moments where you feel lost, how are you intentionally designing your path forward?

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE EPISODES

• Episode 11: Jessica Mand & Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration
• Episode 43: Lisa Hammet & From Burnout to Best Life: How To Take Charge Of Your Health & Happiness
• Episode 57: Karen Brown, & Adam Grant’s book, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know
• Episode 67: Holly Jackson & Her Book, Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets For Raving Success
• Episode 75: Angelic Lovestrong & The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

ABOUT CINDY

Cindy is a former CBS and military reporter who covered the attacks on September 11th. With a successful career in corporate marketing for multi-billion-dollar developers, she eventually founded her own award-winning agency specializing in strategic marketing. She is also a former marathoner who has completed 13 full marathons, including the iconic Boston Marathon. Her life took a unique turn when she was diagnosed with a rare vascular disease, becoming a spokesperson for rare and chronic diseases. As a world traveler and Buffalo Bills diehard fan, Cindy is also a dedicated single mom to her 16 and 13-year-old children. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and advocacy, inspiring others with her unique experiences and passion for making a difference in the world.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CINDY

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindygersch/
• Website: NEUmarketinggroup.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 75: Angelic Lovestrong & The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

As Founder and CEO of Lady Powerhouse Solutions, and co-host of the Fempreneur True Confessions Podcast, Angelic is diving into all-things-entrepreneurship and building others up.

Her wide-ranging experiences and career moves have contributed to where she is today -- helping her clients get things done in their own businesses through a suite of professional services.

Building upon that mindset of getting things done, in this episode she shares her take on and experience with the book, The Secret. She speaks to what she's learned from the book and incorporated into her own life, manifesting what it is she wants to happen. Desires don't just materialize into existence. Preparation and planning go a long way in making things happen. A lot of times, though, manifesting is a matter of just...getting...started.

"Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation" by Zig Ziglar.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• “No more working for others, making everyone else awesome. It’s time for me and what I am called to do.”
• The Itty Bitty Shitty Committee in your head
• Facades – eventually people will come through the door and see the real
• "Anything you can do I can do better" is not about being full of yourself

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE EPISODES

• Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration by Penney Peirce
• Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life by Roxie Nafousi
• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Episode 11: Jessica Mand & Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration
• Episode 48: Edie Clarke & (1) Hello Fears: Crush Your Comfort Zone and Become Who You’re Meant To Be by Michelle Poler; (2) Practical Law of Attraction: Align Yourself with the Manifesting Conditions and Successfully Attract Your Desires by Victoria Gallagher.
• Episode 76: Cindy Gersch & Manifest:7 Steps to Living Your Best Life by Roxie Nafousi

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Angelic is, c

About Angelic

Angelic started working when she was 16. She’s worked in restaurants, a big city PR Firm, web design, human resources, quality control, major fundraising, and opened and closed her own retail brick and mortar. No matter the industry, she’s been creating solid infrastructure for businesses since 1991. Then she decided, “No more working for others, making everyone else awesome. It’s time for me and what I am called to do.” It was time for a bigger leap. She’s created a business allowing her the power and freedom to choose who to serve and how. Lady Powerhouse Solutions supports women-powered initiatives that honor a calling and act with purpose to achieve their vision.

I was introduced to Angelic by video producer and YouTube Strategist Edie Clarke, whom I had a conversation with in Episode 48 to cover: (1) Hello Fears: Crush Your Comfort Zone and Become Who You’re Meant To Be by Michelle Poler; and (2) Practical Law of Attraction: Align Yourself with the Manifesting Conditions and Successfully Attract Your Desires by Victoria Gallagher.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGELIC

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelic-lovestrong/
• Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/spring-hill-fl/lady-powerhouse-solutions
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladypowerhousesolutions/
• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/angeliclovestrong
• Website: https://www.ladypowerhouse.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 74: Lisa Haisha & Her Book, SoulBlazing: Transform Your Imposters into Superpowers and Live a More Purposeful, Authentic Life

In this episode, Lisa -- a life coach, television host, author, and spiritual healer --walks me through her journey and work around the world that culminated in the creation of her soul-blazing therapy and book.

We hear about authenticity all the time. But what does that TRULY look like when our lives and work are not being hijacked by our inner imposters -- the Victim, The Egotist, The Seductor, The Joker, The Fixer, The Overthinker, and The Judge.

These personalities are the focus of Lisa's book. It's important we see how each of them plays out in whatever situation we may find ourselves. It's especially important to understand when we can use them to our advantage.

We tend to default into passive mode in life and work, reacting to what life gives us. We do it to survive, and yes, we do get by. But, in doing that, how much are we forgoing we truly are and what we truly want?

In this conversation, as Lisa broke down what each of the personalities is and when it tends to show up, I thought about when each has reared its head in my life.

It also helps to think about when we just let it happens and when we tap into each of those for our benefit. Lisa gives great examples of when we can do just that.

Our energy in life should not be discounted or forfeited so easily. Working to understand our own will help us tap into what we want and need for ourselves -- REALLY need for ourselves.

Conversation Highlights

• How the BS of the day gets washed away.
• The "You blazed my soul" comment which led Lisa to launched her Soul-Blazing Therapy
• "You’re the writer, producer, director of your own life. If you don’t like your life, you get to change the main character (which is you). Write in a different script for yourself."
• It’s like being a parent: It’s not what you say. It’s what you’re being.

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Whispers from Children's Hearts by Lisa Haisha
• Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration by Penney Peirce
• Fascinate: How To Make Your Brand Impossible to Resist by Sally Hogshead
• The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Lisa is, Are you aware of how much and how often the inner imposters are appearing in the various areas of your life?

ABOUT LISA

Featured as one of the top life coaches to watch in 2023 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Lisa is a television host, mother, entrepreneur, personal coach, author, cultural researcher, world traveler, motivational speaker, corporate keynote, and spiritual healer. Lisa has traveled to over 80 countries to learn from people on their terms, including in boardrooms, yurts, bedohwin caves, South American jungles, ancient cities, prisons, and orphanages. Leveraging these learnings and her education, holding a Masters in Spiritual Psychology, Lisa packaged her unique methodology into her best-selling "SoulBlazing" book, helping thousands worldwide live more purposeful, authentic lives.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LISA

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisahaisha/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LisaHaisha/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.haisha/
• Instagram: @lisahaisha
• Website: https://soulblazing.com/

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE PASTEPISODES

• Episode 5: Jenn T. & Fascinate: How To Make Your Brand Impossible to Resist by Sally Hogshead
• Episode 11: Jessica Mand & Frequency: The Power of Personal Vibration by Penney Peirce
• Episode 73: Kimberlee Pita & Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john

The Book Leads - Episode 73: ⁠Kimberlee Pita⁠ & ⁠Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert⁠

The magic of who we are. That's what this book and conversation cover. In Episode 73, Kim, a Mental Wellness Coach and Founder of the Love Your Mental Health LLC, reflects on both her career and mental health journeys.

A tool pivotal in Kim's wellness work is mindfulness -- taking stock of both what's around us and within us.

She found Big Magic by chance, but it made -- and left -- a deep impression on her.

For her, the book put to words how different we all are, how different our circumstances are, and how much we tend to not realize what we're capable of in our lives. There is so much we can unlock from deep within ourselves.

We spend most of our lives and career looking for it (the "magic") on the outside and in our environments.

Those experiences help, yes. But they merely unlock what's always been there.

There really is magic inside all of us. It's that uniqueness we can bring to the world, something that is only ours, a culmination and result of ALL the experiences we've collected along our journey.

If you don't want to call it magic because it sounds hokey, call it whatever you want. A gift, that something special, your driver, your passion, your reason for being -- whatever resonates for you.

But society stops us from letting it (whatever you decided to call it just now) get through. We conform to the script of life, mute ourselves because of the attitude of others, fear that paralyzes us, and hold back on and give up on ourselves. We're through before we even get started.

Check out this book even if you're not a traditional creative -- the singer, the musician, the painter, the sculptor, the photographer, the writer. Everyone is capable of creating in one form or another.

Find what's yours.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• We were all given something. We all have a beautiful gift inside of us.
• Once we can find our authentic, true self, then we can truly deliver our magic.
• You honor yourself through self-care.

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• 8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It, and Let It Go by Jay Shetty
• Life in Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World by Gretchen Rubin
• The Creative Art: A Way Of Being by Rick Rubin

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Kim is, How are you tapping into the inner magic that is unique to you and that serves as your gift to the world?

ABOUT KIM

A mental health advocate and past board chair of Mental Health Connecticut, Kim founded and launched Love Your Mental Health LLC in 2021, where she helps people turn their fears of mental health into love through self-care. She serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of Copper Beech Institute, a mindfulness center in West Hartford, Connecticut, as well as the Framingham State College Alumni Association. Kim is certified in Mental Health First Aid, life purpose & happiness coaching, mindfulness facilitation, and singing bowls (level 1).

LEARN MORE ABOUT KIM

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimpita/
• Website: http://loveyourmentalhealth.com

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE EPISODES

• Episode 38: Jill Siegel & Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience by Brene Brown
• Episode 63: Nancy Burger & Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming A Life Of Meaning And Possibility In A World Obsessed With Productivity
• Episode 68: Pete Sena & The Creative Act: A Way Of Being by Rick Rubin

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 72: Sabina Sulat & Agile Unemployment: Your Guide to Thriving While Out of Work

In this episode, Sabina, an Employment Expert and Author, walks me through her corporate and entrepreneurial journey that's lead her to recognize -- through immense hardships -- the lessons she can share with others. She seeks to help others avoid the depth of the pitfalls she encountered in her own periods without a job.

Aside from the administrative tasks professionals need to be aware of between jobs, there's also the psychological work they need to do -- for themselves.

Sabina's book and talks are helping bring those psychological needs to the forefront so we don't forget them when it comes to improving our employment status. We tend to put ourselves completely at the mercy of employers, forgetting our own needs.

That needs to stop -- for our own sake.

My conversation with Sabina was a solid reminder to always consider your own self-worth and reinforce your own sense of meaning, not tying it to any particular job or relationship.

We should have a healthy understanding of where our work ends and where we begin. Once we find that meaning mentioned above, we can have an ongoing and consistent source of pride, fulfillment, and sustenance.

These reminders serve us whether we are between jobs or currently employed. The value of the lessons is that we should always be aware of them -- not just when we're looking for a job.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• What it means when one of her clients says, “Wait a minute. I’m the asset here!”
• Understanding -- and avoiding -- enmeshment when it comes to who we are and what we do for work
• The pillars of self-care that need to be addressed when it comes to grieving a job loss
• Be a Margaret (listen to learn about Margaret)
• Do you want to be a participant in your life – or do you want to be the driver?

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide by Michael B Firsch & Caroline Adams Miller

• The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future by Ryder Carroll

• Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

• The Artist’s Way/The Artist’s Way at Work by Julia Cameron

• You Must Write a Book by Honoree Corder

• Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Sabina is, Do you recognize what an asset you are in the work you can do and the value you provide?

ABOUT SABINA

Sabina has worked in Human Resources and Organizational Development for the past fifteen years. In 2018 Sabina found herself unemployed for the first time in her career and used that experience to write the book "Agile Unemployment: Your Guide to Thriving While Out of Work". She also hosts the "Agile Unemployment Podcast", the top unemployment podcast in the US. Her current work, through her company, Re: Working, focuses on helping others to build confidence and resilience as they navigate through all aspects of being out of work to find careers and jobs that align with their values and skills. Sabina regularly speaks to groups and organizations to help others learn to take control of their careers and to help corporations take a human-first approach with their employees. This fall Sabina will be taking part in the Beyond Lean In book tour joining fellow female workplace authors for a series of events across the country as they share their knowledge and insights with others, regardless of gender. Sabina's second and yet untitled book will be released in the fall of 2023, tackling the topic of explaining how work works to those just starting their careers.

MORE ABOUT SABINA

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sabinasulat
• Podcast: https://agileunemploymentpodcast.podbean.com/
• Website: reworkingworks.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 71: Dr. Bridget Cooper (Cannon) & Unflappable: How Smart People Quit Overthinking, Ditch the Drama, & Thrive at Work

This is my second episode with cage-rattler, prolific author, and leadership advisor Dr. B. For those only meeting Bridget for the first time in this episode, she walks me through her career journey, from empowering her coaching clients to that same work taking on even greater meaning when she experienced life-altering changes after a traumatic motor vehicle accident.

This conversation speaks to how our past is impacting our present and future. We need to heal and reconcile correctly, most importantly for ourselves, before we can really move forward.

And so much bullshit from our past gets in our way today. Yes, they are tools, and yes, they serve a purpose. But when they toxify what we're trying to do, they become bullshit.

We can design what we choose to do with those past traumas and disruptions. But most of us never take the time to look back and really see what's what. Bridget provides so many tools in this book -- and in her previous publications -- to tap into the best of ourselves, a part we typically let fall away.

Conversation Highlights

• When it comes to traumatic moments..."how dare that moment take away one more moment of our life?"
• "Trauma is an interruption of what we were put here to experience…how we were formed was to see only beauty, feel only inclusion, have only love…anything shy of that, leaves marks."
• Intent vs. Impact
• Referenced "If you never heal what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you." — Yehuda Berg

Mentioned or Applicable Books

• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing by Bessel van der Kolk
• Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam Grant
• The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
• Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott
• Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork By Dan Sullivan

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Bridget is, Which tools do you have at your disposal to make your way through (and heal from) the obstacles, challenges, and traumas of your life?

About Dr. B.

Dr. B a cage rattler who helps teams and leaders think and communicate more clearly and strategically so they can work and navigate problems proactively and effectively. She works with clients to overcome the attitudes, tactics, and patterns that derail their success through coaching, corporate consulting, and leading workshops that guide and inspire people to live more authentic, peaceful, and powerful lives. TEDx speaker and best-selling author of seven books on communication, conflict, change, and empowerment (including the 2023 toolkit, "Unflappable”), her mission is to change the world, one life at a time. Dr. B volunteers for Junior Achievement, Lasagna Love, The Miss America Organization, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, and various other charities near and dear to her heart.

Dr. B's been with me on the series before when in Episode 24 we covered her book Pain Rebel: How We Take Our Power Back. That was in April of 2022…we’re in October of 2023…a year and a half ater.

Learn More About Dr. B

• Website: www.drbridgetcooper.com
• Email: bridget@drbridgetcooper.com
• Amazon Author Page:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Bridget-Cooper/author/B00LXT7R26?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
• YouTube - TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtsAuqu-TxI&ab_channel=TEDxTalks
• Instagram: @drbridgetcooper
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBridgetCooper/ and https://www.facebook.com/bridget.cannoncooper

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 70: Oakland McCulloch & His Book, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be

Oak is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel whose life and career -- including 23 years in the military -- have been about service to others. After he retired, he went on to run his local Food Bank and continue his service to the military through recruiting future leaders into the service.

Now, Oak is out there, spreading the message of servant leadership across the country and around the world through both his writing and speaking.

The military is about both a higher standard of leaders and service to others. From being a captain across the sports of baseball, basketball, and football and being president of his class and student government while a young man to the work he's doing now, his is a leadership forged in the lessons and stories he shares -- a lifetime of serving others.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• The clarification of what "servant leadership" means.

• What "being a leader is not about you, and it is all about you" really means.

• "Who are you mentoring?"

• The power of remembering the simple things we can do that we might've let slip when it comes to our growth and leadership.

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

• Wooden on Leadership by John Wooden

• The Heights of Courage: A Tank Leader's War on the Golan by Avigdor Kahalani

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Oak is, How much do you serve others through your leadership?

ABOUT OAK

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch is a nationally recognized keynote speaker and the author of the 2021 release, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be. Both his leadership presentation and his book are based on his 40+ years of leadership experience , including 23 years as a combat arms officer in the United States Army). In both his book and his leadership presentation, Oak highlights principles that will benefit today’s leaders and inspire the leaders of tomorrow, in any profession and at any level of leadership.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OAK

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oakland-mcculloch-34293256/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LtcOakland

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LTCOakMcCulloch

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1Ep1eqF3o0X5CBamtVgClQ

• Website: www.ltcoakmcculloch.com

EPISODES WITH SIMILAR THEMES AND REFERENCES

• Episode 53: Laura Darrell & Wooden on Leadership by John Wooden
• Episode 62: Atlas Aultman & his book, Rule of 3: How Elite Leaders Win

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 69: & The Gift 12 Lessons to Save Your Life by Dr. Edith Eger

In this episode, Corinne, shares both insights from Dr. Eger's book and how those insights have benefitted her in her own life -- one of traumatic experience, forgiveness, and growth.

Having experienced that journey herself, she brings her energy for life and wisdom through experience and learning to her coaching clients and retreat guests to help them heal from their own adversity.

Like Dr. Eger conveyed to her patients and implored in her book, Corinne also wants those she's helping to recognize the light that exists beyond hopelessness.

We all need to heal in some way, shape, or form. It may not be apparent, obvious, and evident on the surface, so it may take some reflection to explore and understand the deep-rooted reasons why we feel -- or react to the world -- in a certain way.

The takeaway from this conversation that resonates with me most is that of intentional evolution through victimhood -- and the ability and need to get beyond that vulnerable state. Don't get us wrong. As we state in the episode, it's important we feel those sensations.

So, after we have fully experienced and felt what that source of pain has left behind, we must do the work to step beyond it and build from that remaining rubble and ash.

CONVERSATION HIGHLIGHTS

• Healing is body-based. It has to be.
• Victimhood is a mental prison.
• Dr. Dan Siegel's Hand odel of the Brain
• No one at the end of their life has the regret that they laughed or loved too much.
• What the acronym R.A.I.N. stands for when it comes to self-compassion.

MENTIONED OR APPLICABLE BOOKS

1. The Body Keeps The Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
2. The Book of Forgiving: The Fourfold Path for Healing Ourselves and Our World by Desmond Tutu
3. The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life by Shawn Achor
4. The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward by Daniel H. Pink
5. Man's Search for Meaning by Victor E. Frankl

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Corinne is, When you feel like a victim and you feel hopeless, what do (can) you see BEYOND those sensations?

ABOUT CORINNE

Corinne is a transformation expert serving women who experience challenging transitions – divorce, career change, empty nest, family estrangement, addiction and loss of a loved one. Through her uplifting energy, soothing demeanor, and extensive training in a mosaic of modalities – Internal Family Systems, Respectful Confrontation and Compassion-based therapies – Corinne guides women on a path of joy, connection and love, overcoming the pain of invisible loss. Because Corinne has experienced firsthand invisible loss and the power of healing in community, she leads intimate, small group retreat experiences in beautiful places all over the world as a foundation in creating the Healing the Heart Sisterhood. These intentional communities are comprised of women who are willing to do the deep soul work of Healing the Heart with vulnerability, compassion, and love. In addition to her coaching and retreats, Corinne has launched a weekly Mindfulness Class called Wisdom Wednesdays: Cultivating Calm for the Hurried Human, and that class began on September 20th.

I was introduced to Corinne by Erin Harrigan, who I had as a guest in Episode 55 of the series in which we covered her book, Pursuing Success God’s Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle With Heart.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CORINNE

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinne-coppola/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corinnecoppola16/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corinnecoppola16/
• Website: www.corinnecoppola.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

• Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink
• Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
• The Net and the Butterfly: The Art and Practice of Breakthrough Thinking by Olivia Fox Cabane

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Pete is, Do you realize everyone has the power of creativity at their fingertips? What are you doing with yours?

ABOUT PETE

Pete Sena, a pioneering entrepreneur, co-founded Digital Surgeons, building his career on developing cross-functional teams for Fortune 50 companies and startups alike. He's a forward-thinking thought leader with expertise spanning from branding to Web3 technologies, attracting 33k Twitter followers and 4.2k on Medium. Dedicated to academia, Pete mentors at Yale and acts as an entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of Connecticut. He hosts the podcast "Forward Obsessed", exploring business and tech insights. Originating from a dorm-room startup, he built District, a CT-based tech campus, and guided startups to success. Now, Pete focuses on AI's societal impact, inspiring future entrepreneurs.

David Salinas, Pete's co-host on Forward Obsessed and co-author with me on a chapter in the book Ten Secrets to Success After Graduation, introduced me to Pete. Nick Wagner Sr. was lead author on that book.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PETE

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petersena/ 
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/petesena 
• Medium: https://medium.com/@petesena 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peteslense/
• Website: https://www.petesena.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 67: Holly Jackson & Her Book, Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets For Raving Success

In this episode, Holly, a Revenue Maximizer, Bestselling Author, and Podcast Host, walks me through her life's challenges and lessons that have lead her into the work she's doing now, the book she's written (with more to come), and the movement she's created.

She's another great example of an author who is putting to the page the lessons that have helped them to help others streamline their own journey and life pain points.

And we can use Holly's lessons to tackle most of the challenges in life, including overcoming fear. And she's practicing what she preaches. (I mean, how often has anyone had to give their Tedx Talk twice because the first one wasn't recorded?)

This episode is another great reminder for all of us to share the lessons we've learned in life while sharing our own story. Sure, they may not resonate with everyone who hears them. But there will be someone who needs to hear pieces of what we have to share -- especially when it comes to minimizing their pain (whatever form it might take).

It's also a great reminder of how often we need to take our own advice and medicine, remembering the lessons we've learned along the way -- even us coaches.

We often aren't cognizant of how much is in our control and all the various pieces that go into building a sound life. I love how well-rounded Holly's book is, covering such things as sleep, self care, self-talk, chronic pain, among many others, and all shared with a the foundation of inspiration underneath them to guide us toward respecting our lives by using the tools we've been gifted for it.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• “… any time you try to force something, have you not learned to let go and trust?”    
• How the book is "...authentic, vulnerable, real, and raw so others who are suffering realize they’re not alone."
• The difference between being a "How are you?" person and one who wants to ask, "What is new in your world?"
• Stopping a charging bear.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Holly is, Are we taking a holistic approach when we step back, assess, and manage the challenges in our life?

ABOUT HOLLY

Holly Jean Jackson is a Revenue and Performance Consultant, International & TEDx Speaker, Podcast Host of Inspiration Contagion, Best Selling Author, and founder of Business Builder Throw Down. Her career spans from technology to communications as well as organizational change, public relations and content strategy. In her Peak Performance Blueprint, she looks at a holistic and logistical approach to success. Business owners hire her to master the art and science of real success because most lack direction, action, and results. So, she helps define and design a business roadmap for impactful visibility, intentional profitability, and endless sustainability.

I met Holly through publisher and business strategist Laura Di Franco , whom I met while contributing my own chapter to the book The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies for Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business, a book for which Laura was the publisher and Camille L. Miller, MBA, Ph.D. ABD, the lead author.

I had a conversation with Camille in Episode 58 of this series.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOLLY

• Holly's Book: Inspiration Contagion: Health Secrets for Raving Success - Kindle edition by Jackson, Holly Jean. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyjjackson/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CoachHollyJeanJackson/
• Website: https://hollyjeanjackson.com/
• Tedx Talk: https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=mcafee&ei=UTF-8&p=tedx+holly+jean+jackson&type=E211US714G0#id=1&vid=81fcac3261ad796d87ab070ed9caa8fb&action=click

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 66 – Heidi Metro & The Energy of Money: A Spiritual Guide to Financial and Personal Fulfillment by Maria Nemeth

I recently sat down with Heidi, a visionary and CEO of When You Lead: Coaching & Consulting, to discuss the book and how important it is to lead in a new, updated way that goes beyond the old-fashioned and outdated take on leadership. That’s what Heidi and her team are all about, in both how they lead themselves and coach their clients.

And what’s great about the book is that, although it covers money, the lessons extend well beyond that to a way of being and living.

Leadership – what it is and what is means – is evolving rapidly, especially with the changes in the world resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Heidi and her team are ensuring those lessons are not lost but instead amplified with priority and awareness.

The Midwest, anxiety and depression, philosophy, seasons, empowered women, and sensitive men are all part of this discussion and mixed in. Heidi and I left no stone unturned – for the time we had here. We jump from topic to topic. Everything is applicable and these mindsets are transferrable across experiences and environments.

Most of all, though, the importance of listening to our bodies and our deeper selves is mentioned throughout the conversation. That idea has come up many times in this series – listening to ourselves. But Heidi takes it a step deeper to discuss the physiology at work and how we can tap into the feelings we have to discover what’s driving us forward or holding us back.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• Whenever "something doesn't feel right" shows up, there's an opportunity for a system update within you
• Leaders need to know how their bodies work
• Anxiety & Depression -- barometers to measure going toward or away from her inner knowing
• Tools, if you don't have any of the physiology and philosophy, are just more information.

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Heidi is, How (and how well) are you listening to your body to determine what it is you need for yourself?

ABOUT HEIDI

Heidi is the visionary and CEO of When You Lead: Coaching & Consulting. With an infectious passion for empowering leaders and professionals, she's a driving force, redefining the landscape of leadership from the inside out! When You Lead isn't just your run-of-the-mill company; it's a transformative experience that unlocks each individual's natural and unique potential, allowing them to become the unrivaled gurus of their own lives. Heidi firmly believes that when high achievers and passionate souls possess the mindset, toolset, and skillset of strengths-based leadership, the ripple effect is felt throughout their lives, careers, and communities. Nestled in a cozy Midwestern town, Heidi lives with her partner, their three children, and two pooches. When she’s not creating from her home studio, you might find her browsing a nearby indie bookstore, dreaming over a backyard bonfire, or participating in local community-building events. As a life-long learner, you never know what Heidi is brewing up next!

Heidi is a coauthor of mine on the book The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies for Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business.

I got to know her a little better when she and I appeared on a podcast with the publisher of the book, Laura Di Franco, to promote the book. Check out that episode HERE!

LEARN ABOUT HEIDI

Website: https://www.whenyoulead.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

Episode 65: Dale Wilsher & her book, What’s Your Mom Type: Discovering God’s Design for You

I recently sat down with executive leadership coach and personal development expert Dale Wilsher to discuss her book, What’s Your Mom Type: Discovering God’s Design for You.

Dale’s another unique story about overcoming adversity, understanding your calling, and putting in the work to make a difference. Admittedly, it’s very cliché to hear about someone being forged in the fire, but if there’s anyone who has been, having come out the other end ready to empower other women to neutralize their own difficult odds, it’s Dale.

In hearing about Dale's story and her work, you'll see that just because others don't understand the pieces of who we are, doesn't mean we can put them all together to create a deep, meaningful, and impactful purpose for ourselves and others.

It's incredible -- and sometimes unfortunate -- when we underestimate our own gifts because we don't understand them yet. But, from what I've learned in this series, it doesn't matter if you're a late bloomer. Because by the time you get to the point where you make that realization, your heart is set on that purpose and works harder and more efficiently to make up for that "lost" time.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

• Responsibility is one of Dale's highest values, in which we steward what we've been given
• Knowing who you are isn't enough. You have to like who you are.
• The power of Personality Pride
• How our personalities are suitcases packed long before we were born for the journey of life.

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Dale is, Are you aware of your full worth and potential, no matter what others may believe they see (and misunderstand)?

ABOUT DALE

Dale is an executive leadership coach and personal development expert who helps individuals and organizations turn their purpose into full potential. She is the author of an award-winning personality book, creator of several online courses on personality, career reentry, and boundaries, as well as a faculty member for the US Chamber of Commerce’s Institute of Organizational Management. She is ICF accredited as a Professional Certified Coach and holds certifications as a Certified Professional Life Coach, Certified Career Services Provider, and Gallup Strengths Finder Champion Coach. Dale is a Certified Behavioral Consultant in DISC Personality Profiles and an inspirational keynote speaker. Her background in sales and science, makes her uniquely qualified to provide high-level insights into the hidden strengths, beliefs, and calling of her audiences using the latest findings in positive psychology, leadership, and neuroscience. Once bound by the expectations of others, Dale is now on a mission to help women rise into their fullest lives and truest work.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DALE

• Dale’s Speaker Demo Video: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/2020-speaking-schedule
• Website: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/
• Career Pivot Program: https://www.yourauthenticpersonality.com/careerpivot

I was introduced to Dale by Patricia Ortega, MS. Patricia is a Career Transition Coach and host of the podcast The Uncommon Career, and I had Patricia on Episode 60 of The Book Leads where we covered the book Building A Story Brandy: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller. Patricia’s Episode.

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 64: Misty Compton & her book, Escapegoat Daughter: A Memoir Of One Woman’s Decision To Go No Contact With Her Family.

What Misty, an international bestselling author and co-author, and founder and CEO of CoreCavity LLC, shares with me is an open, raw, and emotional journey that’s led to now, to her mission to help others grow through recognizing their value and sharing their own story.

What I was reminded of while listening to Misty's story is that, by default, we may believe our story may not matter, but in the end, there are lessons others can take from our path. And you might not know the value of your story until you put it out there, share it with others, and hear what it means to them.

Thank you, Misty, for sharing so much of your story with me and this audience. There’s so much I learned about the human spirit, understanding one’s own value, and living one’s best life, no matter what or who we're faced with.

Episode Highlights

• "This is your life. It's time to choose."
• What it really means to "not be a victim"
• Following your ethical compass
• How your story can help others

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Misty is, How do you prioritize your mental health and psychological safety around those in you environments, including your family?

About Misty

Misty is an international bestselling author, co-author, and founder and CEO of CoreCavity LLC, a writing and editing service. Her first book Escapegoat Daughter was published in July 2022 and has inspired many daughters raised by toxic mothers to heal from past traumas and pursue a healthy lifestyle. In March 2023, she coauthored, Her Badass Story 3, a book series where brave women share their traumas and challenges to give women strength to conquer their personal battles. Through her writing, she helps women grow, heal, and flourish after a difficult childhood and into the person they were meant to be! Misty is currently in the process of writing her first fiction novel series and can’t wait to share it with the world.

Learn More About Misty

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mistycomptonauthor/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Authormistyc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormistycompton
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mistycomptonauthor
• Website: https://www.mistycomptonauthor.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 63: Nancy Burger & Tracking Wonder: Reclaiming A Life Of Meaning And Possibility In A World Obsessed With Productivity

I recently sat down with, Nancy, a speaker, workplace communications strategist, and executive coach to discuss a book written by her friend and mentor Jeffrey Davis, whose guidance and insights have been a major influence in her professional journey.

As mentioned in previous episodes, but through her own unique words, insights, and experiences, Nancy talks about the foundation of our childhood as it applies to our adulthood, and the programming and reprogramming that needs to take place to live and do our best, most fruitful life and work.

The key to working through the lasting impact of childhood trauma also exists in those formative years. We need to look to the playfulness, the wonder, and the curiosity of our younger years. In utilizing that same lens as an adult lies the freedom to truly explore life and break free of our self-imposed limiting beliefs.

And it's never too late to pursue the passions we always had when we were younger -- as evidenced by Nancy's joining, singing, and performing in bands beginning at 40, satisfying that creative hunger she had for the performative arts.

Episode Highlights

• How childhood is a double-edged sword
• Overcoming the fear of trying something new vs. the regret of not trying it -- the choice is yours
• Dorothy, the Wizard of Oz, and knowing the power you already have
• "People think wonder is kids stuff, but it's radical grown-up stuff." Jeffrey Davis

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Nancy is, For all the limiting beliefs created in childhood, can YOU find the wonder in childhood you can use to offset them?

About Nancy

Nancy Burger is a speaker, workplace communications strategist, and coach who guides leaders and teams to foster emotionally healthy cultures. A Marshall Goldsmith-certified leadership coach, author, and seasoned researcher, Nancy weaves together 10+ years in communications expertise and research in psychology and neuroscience to elevate workplace connections. She works with C-suite executives, heads of HR & training/recruiting, managers, business owners, and team leaders across many industries. Nancy also delivers workshops and talks to universities, leadership organizations, and networking groups, all with the aim of cultivating clear, effective, and productive communication dynamics.

Learn More About Nancy

• Website: www.nancyrburger.com
• Instagram: https://lnkd.in/eScUNy2G
• Facebook: https://lnkd.in/eJFKsbKQ
• LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/ekTYU6_e

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 62 – Atlas Aultman & his book, Rule of 3: How Elite Leaders Win

Joshua “Atlas” Aultman has had a career steeped in leadership lessons. Coming from a family lineage that’s traversed both law enforcement and the military, the family code is one of serving others.

From those family lessons to his 27 years of military experience (in over 30 countries) in the most elite teams -- from communities such as Special Operations, conflict zones, and the Obama White House -- through his speaking, writing, and coaching, we get to learn from Atlas’s takeaways.

Rule of 3 is a book Atlas began years ago, with its lessons seeding the children’s books he’s written since then, for which his son served as illustrator. Any time a guest can simplify the lessons of leadership to expose our youth to those virtues and prepare them with tools to live and serve with their best life, I’m all for it!

Any time we can learn the lessons of leadership streamlined to the most elite foundation, I'm here for that as well!

What I took away from this conversation is the urgency that exists in leadership. Most leadership positions will not carry the same life-or-death consequences as leadership positions in the military, but each will carry deep importance and significance in the life of the leader and those in their charge.

We often think of the military as being all business, stoic, hard-charging, and ready for action. But Atlas’s work serves through compassion, service, and honesty to impact everyone – even if they’re not the right person for the job.

Episode Highlights

• What to learn from the biggest corporation in the world, the United States military
• How leadership is a voice.
• If you can tell a story to a child, that’s what everyone’s going to listen to.
• The power and respect in honest candor with others regarding their performance
• “The world is a stage, and your kids are watching you as the main character. So, if you spend time with them and take them to your stage and provide them the lessons you’re learning, that’s better than anything you can do.”

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Atlas is, How much do you understand (and provide to) the role of each person in the mission of your work?

Mentioned Or Applicable Books

• Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships by Eric Berne
• Oh, The Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss
• The World Encyclopedia of Flags and Heraldry by Alfred Znamierowski

About Atlas

Atlas is a 4X bestselling author, former United States Air Force senior officer with experiences in communities like the White House, Conflict zones, and Special Operations. Atlas was recently voted as one of the nation’s top 150 unknown speakers. He is currently the CEO of Leaders-KIT, an organization that helps proven leaders. He resides in Phoenix, Arizona with his family.

Learn more about Atlas

• Website - www.Leaders-KIT.com
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/atlas_aultman/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@atlas_aultman
• TikTok - @atlas_aultman
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/josh.aultman.351

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads - Episode 61: Hesha Abrams & her book, Holding The Calm: The Secret To Resolving Conflict And Defusing Tension

Hesha, an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, has a storied career in corporate and international mediation, shifting from a practicing litigator before that. Walking me through her career and book, we talk about the power and role of connection when it comes to mediation and understanding each other.

She gets conflict. She gets what mediation is and what it can do. She's a glass-full kind of mediator but without any Pollyannish Toxic Positivity getting in the way. She sees the possibilities but calls it like she sees it. That balance contributes to her success.

Even though Hesha’s work is in mediation, resolving conflict after it’s start, what this conversation with Hesha reinforced in me is the power of service, of giving back just as much as, if not more than, we take.

So much of what we talk about here is avoiding getting to that point of contention in the first place by serving and being there for each other.

There’s a way we can help stop the constant toxicity enveloping the world. And it begins with us. Little acts of impact we can carry out, which set a ripple effect in motion. The power of Micro-Interactions also came up in my conversation with Jim Frawley in Episode 45 of The Book Leads.

Episode Highlights

• She’s a self-described laboratory of human conflict. She’s seen every variety and level of conflict in her work around the world.
• The impact having a give-a-darn meter can have on a leader’s followers.
• Why validation is the WD-40 of the universe
• Albert Einstein: “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Hesha is, For all the rights given to you in this world, do you understand your responsibility to give back?

About Hesha

Hesha is an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, with a unique talent to manage big egos and strong personalities and a keen ability to create synergy amongst the most diverse personality types, driving them toward agreement. By Holding the Calm, she uses innovative approaches to deal making, specializing in crafting solutions for complex or difficult matters. During her 30+ year career, Hesha has resolved thousands of cases, both large and small, in every conceivable area, creating settlements worth billions of dollars, saving clients billions more, including a dispute over the secret recipe for Pepsi. Holding the Calm is her insightful, practical, easy to use tool kit, forged in the trenches of resolving human conflict. Its secrets will enable you to know how to approach every situation to prevent explosions, disarm conflicts, and reduce drama. Holding the Calm is Hesha’s contribution to help make our world, businesses, and relationships less acrimonious and more harmonious

Learn more about Hesha

• Hesha's Website: https://lnkd.in/etiuiJZt
• The Book: https://lnkd.in/ehgNTDQJ

⁠Watch the episode on YouTube⁠

⁠Learn more about The Book Leads⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 60 – Patricia Ortega & Building A Story Brand Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller

The tough challenges Patricia, a Career Transition Coach and host of the podcast The Uncommon Career, had to overcome early in her life set the stage and lay the foundation for the work she’s doing today helping people recognize their value and tell that story to the world.

This was the perfect book for Patricia to discuss with me. In general, people are horrible at telling our stories – our REAL stories – and using them to reflect who we really are. So, we need to dial it in and tune it up.

And that’s exactly the work Patricia does to help others.

What I took away from this conversation is the reinforcement of what coaches preach, namely that value is already inside who we’re working with. It’s a matter of realizing it, refining it, and presenting it that makes up the journey forward. Patricia understands that process based on her own experience growing up and into her own career.

It’s a reminder to both her and I, as well. All the pieces we discuss in the episode are the building blocks of our own commitments to our craft, namely building up our brand before an audience is there by knowing our story, recognizing our own value, and delivering it for others. It keeps us showing up – especially as podcast creators, episode after episode.

We all need that constant reminder. It was great to share this exact conversation with a fellow coach and podcaster.

Episode Highlights

• Breaking out and building up from the belief she was only ever meant to be at the bottom of the food chain, scraping up what no one else wanted.
• The tight parallels between entrepreneurship and being career savvy.
• The power of confirmation and validation for others.
• A conversation of what Artificial Intelligence (AI) can and cannot provide in the career coaching space.
• Confidence doesn’t come from success but from the endless hours -- sometimes of blood, sweat, and tears -- practicing and refining our craft.

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Patricia is, How much do we understand our story to then communicate our value to others?

About Patricia

Patricia is a master's level career counselor & coach with a decade of professional experience. Her mission is to use everything she’s learned to help career seekers overcome mindset challenges and walk out their career goals. She helps people explore options and strategically navigate their career journey. Through the power of coaching, she also helps candidates develop a professional brand and communicate signature strengths so they can become confident, sought-after professionals. She is also a Christian, wife, dog mom, and of course, host of The Uncommon Career Podcast.

I was introduced to Patricia by Erin Harrigan, my guest in Episode 55, in which Erin covered her book, Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart.

Learn more about Patricia

• Website: theuncommoncareer.com
• Podcast: theuncommoncareer.com/sub-podcast

Watch the episode on YouTube

Learn more about The Book Leads

The Book Leads – Episode 58: Camille L. Miller, MBA, Ph.D. ABD and her book, The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul-Aligned Business: 25 Practical Strategies From The Experts

Combining her various educational degrees and her work in the non-profit sector, Camille is working, through her Soul Professional Movement, to help others maximize their business reach while making a difference in their communities in the process.

In this episode, she and I cover her first book of a trilogy that parallels the tenets of her organization. The first book is about launching one’s business. The upcoming second book is about reaching the next level of success. Finally, the third book will cover leadership and leaving your legacy.

In addition to talking about her career journey, Camille and I also talk about and compare notes on being introverts fascinated by network-building.

In the end, whether its about networking or building up our communities through our work, we stress the importance of changing the world by going for what we want – and we don’t take it lightly.

What I take away from my conversation with Camille is the realization that we shouldn’t forfeit who we are when it comes to our work and business. Some of us want to shake the world up and make a difference, doing what we can proactively instead of sitting out on the sidelines. Her organization helps business owners, new and established, do just that without losing their souls, instead achieving the alignment between making money and doing the work that feels right for you.

This is yet another conversation that amplifies the power of networking and realizing what we need and who we want to surround ourselves with.

Don’t compromise. Don’t forfeit who you are. Get out there and find what’s for you. Too many of us are waiting, tolerating the cards we’re dealt. There is more out there for you – should you want it and if you feel called to do so.

You just to be curious, explore, and experiment.

Episode Highlights

• Porshe vs. Honda: It’s experiences and people that change the world.
• When you don’t control things, sometimes you control more.
• The A-Ha moment presented by Superstorm Sandy
• The power of leading from behind.

Mentioned / Applicable Books

• The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies For Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business (July 2023)
• The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results
• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Camille is, How do you align your business and/or work with who you are at your core and in your heart?

About Camille

Recognized as the pioneer of the Soul Professional Movement, Camille is on a quest to assist entrepreneurs in building authentic businesses that impact the world. She founded the first global professional organization celebrating the evolution of soul-aligned entrepreneurs who are ready to awaken their financial and spiritual potential. Camille is a transformational leader and celebrated influencer in the field of entrepreneurship. Her debut book, The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul-Aligned Business hit Amazon Bestseller status in six categories including Starting a Business and ranked #3 behind Joe Dispenza and Brene Brown in Personal Transformation & Spirituality. She is currently working on her second book which will be released July 2023, The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Strategies to Grow Your Soul Aligned Business.

Learn more about Camille and the Soul Professional Movement

• Discover the Soul Professional Movement: https://lnkd.in/dwcVQ8HK

• Website: https://CamilleLMiller.com

• Blog: https://lnkd.in/dCJdy6_E

• YouTube Channel: https://NLBP.tv

• FREE Global Collaborative on Facebook: https://lnkd.in/d_eXG27C

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 57: Karen Brown, & Adam Grant’s book, Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know

In my conversation with Karen, we talk about her career, from her beginnings in real estate to her role today as an Executive Coach, and Founder and CEO of Exponential Results, as well as her passion for competing in ultra-marathon and triathlon events.

Her education, research, and work in neuroscience and human behavior guide and are the foundation of her team's work at Exponential Results.

It’s amazing what the mind can do. Even though it’s a simplistic machine, it can either hold us back from or propel us forward to our greatest dreams.

Its strength lies in its programming – something we need to pay attention to and reassess regularly. We have to INTENTIONALLY re-evaluate it because so much of how it controls us takes place subconsciously without our awareness of what’s happening. We just go through the motions if we let ourselves.

Is it programmed to limit our beliefs or to achieve what’s possible? It's up to us to review and decide.

In covering Grant’s book, Karen and I give so many examples from the book and our own lives of the powers of mindset, learning and relearning, and remaining mentally pliable.

Episode Highlights

1. We’re all unique individuals, like different puzzles, but our brains all work the same way.
2. Definition of Trauma: ANY experience we have that triggers a significant emotional response.
3. How constantly questioning your value and having to prove your worth, although limiting, can make you a good rethinker.
4. “The world will be a changed place when we can all enter into one-on-one and collective conversations like this.”

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Karen is, What are you holding yourself back from based on your lifelong and programmed limiting beliefs?

About Karen

Karen is the Founder and CEO of Exponential Results. She draws on 30 years of success as a corporate executive with over 20,000 hours of senior executive coaching experience. She’s also a focused and fearless athlete, having completed, as an amateur, the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii and competing in numerous ultra-marathon and triathlon events around the world. It was during her Ironman training that Karen discovered the key to greater performance and effectiveness: identifying and addressing blind spots – the repeated thinking patterns that impede success. Using a professional coach and science-based methodologies of how our minds work, she busted through her own blind spots to achieve astounding results. Her discovery led to the creation of Exponential Results’ proprietary Power Pathways™ methodology, stemming from neuroscience. Karen is the author of Unlimiting Your Beliefs: 7 Keys to Greater Success in Your Personal and Professional Life (Morgan James Publish, 2018). The book is available on Amazon and other online outlets.

Learn More About Karen

• LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e_cXtfmn
• Website: https://lnkd.in/egBfQE2w

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 56: Connor DeLaney and I Hear You: The Surprisingly Simple Skill Behind Extraordinary Relationships by Michael Sorenson

Connor’s the exact person and leader you want in your business, especially in its founding and building. As Director of Membership at IMPACT, he’s helping create the customer and client experience. He’s understood that power from an early age, working in the restaurant business before working in the office environment. Because of that early experience, he knows the power of relationships and communication.

He’s continued to refine – and improve – his approach to relationships as a result of having read this book.

Connor’s approach is a lesson across the values of curiosity, empathy, and work ethic.

Through the stories and examples we both share here, he facilitates how the lessons of this book apply to our everyday work and personal lives. That there’s too much we’re leaving on the table if we don’t learn about and listen to each other.

Even if we have the best of intentions in everything we do, it doesn’t mean we’re demonstrating that in our actions. There’s always room for improvement and refining.

Connor and I met when I joined the board of the American Marketing Association – Connecticut Chapter. We only had one brief conversation at that time since our times on the board did not overlap. Nevertheless, we’ve stayed in touch. I appreciate what Connor brings to the LinkedIn community, always sharing and engaging to create value to his team, colleagues, and network.

Connor’s my first repeat guest on the show. All the way back in Episode 12 we covered the book They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today's Digital Consumer by Marcus Sheridan.

Episode Highlights

• The power of the early work and doing the reps, and what that does for your relationship building and networking.
• The power of exploration and discovering new things to keep your energy high, even in new and unexpected areas of life and work.
• The power of trust, honesty, and candor: “Take the thing that’s in the back of your head and put it in your mouth and spit it out.”
• The power of validation in seeing others and building relationships

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Connor this time around is, How do you take the time to learn to listen, to hear and see others and improve relationships?

Learn more about Connor & IMPACT

• Connor’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-delaney/
• Website: app.impactplus.com
• LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eFSvVBUR

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 55: Erin Harrigan & Her Book, Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart

In this conversation, Erin, a Christian business coach, shares how she was called to the work she's doing now, trading in the traditional definition of success for doing God's work while making an impact in the lives of others.

The driving need for success in our culture can do us in -- as evidenced by so many stories in previous episodes of The Book Leads. Erin's story presents another lesson in reinvention as a result of burnout, coming out the other end of those challenges by finding God later in her career.

Erin seemed to find her faith at the precise moment she needed it, then sharing those lessons with other women seeking to elevate their business and their faith simultaneously.

Whatever your faith may be, most of us have something that is calling to us, whether it be that faith, goals, tradition, or legacy. Our unique desires don't match up to society's definitions and stories of success. It's hard to step away from that when it's all we've known. But it is possible.

The best part about those stories of people finding their calling mid-career is that when they do find what they're meant for, they hit it with everything they've got and make the greatest impact. It reinforces the idea that all those struggles and all that suffering weren't in vain.

Episode Highlights

• The evolving definition of success and what it means to us.
• The power of Yielding Your Fruit -- one of the 5 principles she outlines in her book for pursuing success God's way. You have something you can share that is unique to you. How are you sharing it?
• Erin works in the space where business and faith don't understand each other, where one feels there's no place for the other. To demonstrate that they can coexist is her calling.

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Erin is, Whether for yourself, others, or a higher power, what is the driver behind your wanting to achieve “success”?

About Erin

Erin Harrigan is a Christian wife, empty nest mom, speaker, author and business coach on a mission to help high-achieving Christian women level up their businesses without compromising their faith. Bringing to bear her 30+ years of corporate work and 10+ years of network marketing, she helps women be more focused and fruitful by aligning business strategy and goals to God's truth through her customized business coaching, speaking and award-winning podcast, Redefining Hustle: Pursuing Success as a Christian Woman. Erin is the author of Pursuing Success God's Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart.

Learn more about Erin

• FB: https://lnkd.in/e3nt2ySD
• IG: https://lnkd.in/eucZYzD5
• LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/e_WHe24E
• YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eJcyw43G
• Free download: https://lnkd.in/ewPBCZY2
• Email: erin@erinharrigan.com

I was introduced to Erin by Laura Di Franco, who is a book publishing business strategist who’s coordinating the release of an anthology I’ll be a part of in July 2023 – The Ultimate Guide to Becoming A Successful Soul Professional: 22 Powerful Growth Strategies For Upleveling Your Soul-Aligned Business.

In my chapter, I break down what inspired my signature talk, Platinum Networking: Designing A Unique Experience For Others In A World Of Disconnection, digging into my story -- and that of and with my parents -- to understand what's behind the way I interact with those in my network, serving them as if they were my clients.

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 54: Moshe Goldstein & his book, STARTERMINDSET

In STARTERMINDSET, Moshe interviews fourteen young (17-25 year old) professionals, each coming from unique and diverse backgrounds, who tell their stories and share their motivations to succeed. These stories range across all industries showing that, with the right mindset and motivation, prosperity is within reach. In this book you will discover where to go with your concept and the steps needed to create a lifelong career.

Moshe has a background that spans work as a high school teacher and studies in computer science, mathematics, cybersecurity, patent prosecution, and Talmudic law. With that connection of teaching young students and his own experience across so many fields, Moshe became curious about how it is young people can tap into their best skills and abilities to achieve groundbreaking work in their fields.

My curiosity on learning and development in youth has led many of podcast episodes to become two-pronged – one to glean knowledge from my guests for professionals while a second is to ask, from time to time, how we can provide those tools for younger generations. It’s not that we need to make things easy and safe for them. But if we can provide them tools early, we can empower them sooner to begin making a difference through their own ability and passions

Episode Highlights

• Appreciating and tapping into one’s own unique vision and way of thinking.
• The Starter Mindset can exist in any field and industry.
• The power of people sharing their knowledge and paying it forward.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Moshe is, Regardless of age, what ideas have you had for the world, and how have you gone about executing on them?

Moshe’s Bio

Moshe Goldstein is a high school teacher and has studied computer science, mathematics, cybersecurity, patent prosecution, and Talmudic law. He also is a community service volunteer with Kids of Courage (K.O.C.) and is an emergency medical technician…so he’s always seeking to help others while expanding his own knowledge. Moshe recognized the lack of advice for young people getting their footing in the “real world;” making it his goal to encourage the next generation to forge their own path. Drawing from his own experience, his debut book STARTERMINDSET, sets out to inspire people to get started and find their passion. Instead of settling for good enough, Moshe strives to draw out the very best in himself and those around him.

Learn more about Moshe

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moshe-goldstein/
• Twitter: @startermindset
• Instagram: startermindset1
• Website: startermindset.com

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

Episode 53: Laura Darrell & Wooden on Leadership by John Wooden

In this episode you'll find two leadership coaches geeking out on all-things-leadership, exchanging notes, experiences, and insights on what we hope leadership can become.

Laura’s journey begins with the immigrant story of her parents and the mindset they brought with them in their migration to Canada. She shares with me here the stories behind the mindset triad that has lead to the hard work and determination she’s lived in her career: (1) Be positive; (2) Have incredible work ethic; and (3) Understand the power of freedom to create what it is you want.

You can tell Laura lives the lessons she learned from her parents, picked up along the way in her career, and gleaned from Coach Wooden’s book. The book itself is one with transformative lessons, setting the example for what we all can do for others in their lives and work.

A ripple effect of humanity. We can make a difference and change their lives. We typically underestimate that power.

In addition to covering Coach Wooden’s book, in which he lays out his approach to and vision for leading others – which helped his UCLA team win a total of 10 NCAA championships in 12 seasons – we cover Laura’s own journey of leadership and the lessons from Coach Wooden’s book she’s infused into her approach to life and leadership.

Episode Highlights

• “You want to make the world a better place, let’s focus on the caliber of leadership that exists in the world today.”
• The Magic of Leadership: Creating space for amazing things to happen. It’s your job to believe the people you’re leading are capable of greatness.”
• The power of detachment: If you give it all in the practice, you don’t have to worry about the outcome of the game.
• If you’re not prepared to love your people, leadership is not for you.
• Coach Wooden: “Make each day your masterpiece.”

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Laura is, How does your leadership make a lasting impact well past those moments of leadership

Laura’s Bio

Laura is a top-selling leadership author and guest speaker passionate about franchisee/franchisor success, organizational health, and leadership development. She has twenty-five years of people, team, and departmental leadership experience with some of Canada and the world's most iconic brands. She holds a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University with thesis research focused on how enhanced collaboration between multidisciplinary key stakeholders can lead to better business outcomes for both.

Learn more about Laura:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauravik/
• Website: www.lauradarrellleadership.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083941399388

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads - Episode 52: Chris Felton & Think & Grow You: How To Get Out Of Your Own Way And Level Up Your Life

I recently sat down with Amazon bestselling author, 7-figure entrepreneur, and speaker Chris Felton to cover his book.

Like so many authors I’ve interviewed, Chris’s story is rooted in the life challenges he overcame himself. At the brink of financial ruin, he turned it around with the help of his wife. They did the work, got things done, and want to help others through their story, which they infused into a book. The book we cover in this episode is Chris’s own.

As Chris shares – and I’m sure you can attest to it -- people get stuck and they stay stuck. Chris wants to help 10’s of millions get unstuck and get back on the path of life they deserve. That’s what his purpose is in everything he does.

I enjoyed Chris’s honesty and no-punches-pulled style of expression. You can hear the urgency in his voice for others, and he’s full of perfect sound bites of one-liners.

He calls himself both a miracle and a mess. Aren’t we all, though? We all have our “stuff,” bullshit we’re going through in our lives of every look, size, and feel. It’s how we deal with and navigate through it that establishes the measure of our character, humanity, and resilience. I hope it gets you as fired up as it got me.

Some Episode Highlights

• Chris shares he quite living in Hopium -- Hoping the outside world changes while he fiercely insisted on staying the same
• Chris admits he wanted to avoid the prices others had to pay for him wanting to stay a "dumbass."
• How always not making time for others and responding "I'm busy" can send out a signal that you can't handle the blessings coming your way.
• He recommends, whether you're an author or not, that you write your personal history to understand yourself more fully and deeply.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Chris is, Do you understand what the difference is between interest and commitment when it comes to changing your ways?

Chris's Bio

Chris Felton is an Amazon bestselling author, 7-figure entrepreneur, and owner of a financial services firm which he started in 1999.Chris leads and trains 200 agents across the US as they have helped over 17,000 clients, and he’s achieved Top 1% status in a company of 60,000+ agents. He’s been featured in US News & World Report, Market Watch, Yahoo Finance, and Nasdaq to name a few. As an international speaker and bestselling author, Chris is committed to sharing his story and lessons learned from being on the brink of financial ruin and divorce to building one of the most successful financial services firms in the country. He speaks on stages to audiences of over 20,000 and appears on top podcasts, such as the Ed Mylett show, reaching millions of listeners around the world.

Learn more about Chris: https://chrisfelton.me/ 

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 51: ⁠Matt Thieleman⁠ & his book, This Is Coaching: How to Transform a Client’s Performance, Life, and Business as a Master Coach & Warrior of Love

My discussion with Matt is yet another open and vulnerable conversation in which we cover my guest’s life and path that led to their work today. Specifically for Matt, that means helping clients today “who are missing something and don’t quite know what it is.”

The conversation covers so many areas – childhood trauma, how we can be drawn toward chaos, and the power of healing in both living our best life and doing the best work we can.

Drawing from the career lessons and experience of his own journey as a human and his own work as a coach, Matt has published This Is Coaching to provide more insight into what coaching can become.

Episode Highlights

• Marketing’s applicability to leadership
• A question that has driven Matt throughout his work and career: How do I put myself in another person’s perspective and get curious about what would actually be useful for them?
• Why looking back at our childhood can feel “icky.”
• Growing as a leader means to be able to grow our capacity to play on the full spectrum of life, however that looks.
• How fear shows up whenever possibility shows up

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Matt is, How do you step into what it is you need to do to get to where you want to go and who you want to be?

Matt’s Bio

Matt works with leaders and change-makers to help them live into their purpose more fully and bring their masterpieces to the world. He educates and trains coaches to be world-class in their field and help their clients reach their full potential . Prior to becoming a coach, Matt was in the marketing world, working with clients in practically every industry imaginable., having worked with companies such as Michigan Ross School of Business, Gannett, Parthenon Publishing , and others, Through that work, Matt had a good look at how well-intentioned leadership not getting out of their own way was causing businesses harm. Matt has been a leadership coach since 2016 and spent 2021 as CEO of Pilea, a coaching organization for venture-backed founders. After a year of intense growth and hard work, Matt turned his focus back to coaching and other soul-work he’s called to bring to the world. It’s simply a continuation of a lifelong mission to heal himself, help others heal, and lead others with authenticity. Matt is the founder of Golden Bristle, a TEDx Speaker on Mindful Leadership, “Why The World Needs Mindful Leaders,” and Co-Sensei of Samurai Coaching Dojo

Learn more about Matt:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattthieleman/
• Website: https://goldenbristle.com/

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 50:  Sean Glaze & STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement

I recently sat down with author and leadership expert Sean Glaze to cover his book STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement.

Sean is someone who worked as an English Teacher and coached 4 sports before his current work in the leadership field.

And it makes sense to me that that’s the path he’s taken to his leadership and teambuilding practice.

Experiencing his demeanor in our conversation, while understanding the power of communication from his 30 years of teaching literature and the lessons a coach puts into play with students – especially across four different sports -- I see the tremendous value that confluence of attributes and skills creates for his clients and audience.

I believe our great teachers were our first leadership coaches, whether we know it or not.

And here’s a teacher who learned his lessons while coaching, shifting from directing and instructing to asking and learning.

Episode Highlights

• The idea of being coached and being coachable are two very different things.
• What are the questions that lead people down the path where they make a commitment instead of remaining complacent?
• “We can only give people what's already in our backpack.”
• Experience vs. Awareness in Leadership – Which makes great leaders?

The MAIN QUESTION that underlies my conversation with Sean is, How do you stay coachable, remaining open to learning and getting better in your development?

Seans's Bio

Sean is an author and leadership expert who has worked with clients like the CDC, John Deere, Coca-Cola, and Emory University to increase collaboration, boost productivity, and build exceptional workplace cultures. Sean’s engaging conference keynotes and interactive team building events help accelerate the growth of more effective leaders. As a successful basketball coach and educator for over 20 years, Sean gained valuable insights into leading winning teams - and founded Effective Leaders to share those lessons. Sean’s books, Rapid Teamwork, The 10 Commandments of Winning Teammates, and STAYING COACHABLE: A Story With 4 Questions to Help You Thrive in Change and Enjoy Relentless Improvement are entertaining parables with powerful take-aways to improve team performance and leadership! The question that Sean asks, that gets to the core of his work is: What issues are you dealing with that would disappear if you had a workplace culture that emphasized connection, accountability, and a team-first attitude?

Learn more about Sean:

• Company Website https://lnkd.in/e3kX_6eH
• Linkedin https://lnkd.in/eadwmEpP
• Twitter https://lnkd.in/eVSBsBb4
• TikTok https://lnkd.in/eK3_SXY2
• Facebook https://lnkd.in/eTWmSvvb
• Youtube https://lnkd.in/e9a6z3yB
• Email Sean@EffectiveLeaders.live

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 49: Greg Kettner & Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating monster to a Money-Making Machine by Mike Michalowicz

Greg speaks to how this book changed his view on finances, which, let’s be honest, plays very much into our stress vs. peace of mind dynamic. It helped him organize and be disciplined about his business finances, freeing him to focus his energy for helping more people.

I have a deep appreciation for Greg’s work because, well, I love laughing. Yes, I know, most people do. But I NEED a good laugh every day. That, honestly, is my measure of a great day: At some point in the day, did I enjoy what I was doing enough to let out a good laugh?

Greg, a former professional comedian who is also the Founder of WorkHappy™ Nation, understands that power of happiness and laughter, and also how it’s residual ripple effect can enhance our work environments, success, and profits.

In this world we’re living in, filled with tension, stress, anxiety, and chaos, we can’t leave our happiness to chance. Whatever level of happiness it is that each of us needs, we need to be proactive and intentional about setting the stage for it.

In our conversation, Greg breaks down how his mission to bring more intentional happiness to the workplace began and the results he achieves for his clients.

I also appreciate the awareness Greg brings to men’s mental health. For far too long the stigma of talking about mental health has kept men from both expressing ourselves and getting the help we need.

I was introduced to Greg by Darrin Tulley, Founder and Chief of Possibilities at Ignite Happy, and I interviewed Darrin in Episode 21 of this series on his book, Live Your Possible: Ignite Your Happy, Authentic Self and Live a Fulfilling Life Rooted in Joy, Inclusion, Love, and Possibilities.

Episode Highlights

• The question that set Greg on his current journey: “Why don’t you go and help other people work happy?”
• The Zone of Service is magical.
• How do we be more human? We’ve gotten away from it.
• Every point made about men’s mental health.
• What we can all learn from Billy Joel.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Greg is, Whether as an organization or an individual, what intentional steps are you taking to make your happiness and mental health a priority throughout the day?

Greg’s Bio

Greg Kettner is a TEDx Keynote Speaker, Trainer, and Coach who uses the WorkHappy Program to assist leaders and organizations in reducing stress, boosting productivity, and fostering a culture of mental health mindfulness. In his talk "The Power of Laughter" he shares how businesses can inspire and empower their workforce by putting people before profits. WorkHappy businesses succeed by ensuring that voices are heard, opinions and perspectives are valued, and that discussions about mental health take place in the workplace. Coca-Cola, RE/MAX, Ford Motor Company, iCIMS, TractionGuest, Vizier, SunLife Financial, and the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games are just a few of the companies that now WorkHappy.

Learn more about Greg:

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkettner/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gregory.kettner/
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gregkettner/
• Twitter https://twitter.com/gregkettner
• Podcast https://www.gregkettner.com/podcast

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 48: Edie Clarke &…

1. Hello Fears: Crush Your Comfort Zone and Become Who You’re Meant To Be by Michelle Poler
2. Practical Law of Attraction: Align Yourself with the Manifesting Conditions and Successfully Attract Your Desires by Victoria Gallagher

I recently sat down with Edie, a Remote Video Producer & YouTube Strategist, to discuss two books which have impacted her life.

Edie’s path began in studying and obsessing over the details and structure of educational TV shows as a young girl growing up in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s passion which, building off of that childhood fascination, continues today as she helps clients understand, craft, and reflect their own story on video by harnessing the power of YouTube.

But that path was shaken by self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

Edie shares that, during that period, she found these books, just at the right time, to help her step through fear and manifest what she wanted to deliver for herself and, therefore, for her clients.

Fear can do most of us in. It paralyzes us at the core before we’re able to tap into what we’re really about and deliver that quality and value to our community, whether it be to our personal or business community. Hello, Fears helped Edie work through those self-imposed obstacles.

Once we get beyond fear, what are we going to do with what we want for ourselves – our ideas, passions, dreams, and hopes? Navigating and overcoming the negative is one thing; designing and building the positive is yet another. So, once we overcome our fears, how are we going to design what we want to see happen? How will we manifest those visions?

Edie covers both those areas in this conversation as it pertains to her journey.

Episode Highlights

· Another great story about how strongly some people know their passion early in life but spend part of their career ignoring the voice that keeps calling them back to that original love.

· The power of detachment – knowing you did the best that you could in your craft and work, and letting go, not becoming crippled by wondering what people are going to draw from your effort.

· “Everything happens for a reason, and it happens at the time that you need it, and you see it to do it when it’s right for you.”

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Edie is, What has fear kept you from accomplishing, and how are you going to get out there, beyond it, to make them happen anyway?

Edie’s Bio

Edie Clarke is a highly experienced and knowledgeable remote video producer and YouTube strategist who is dedicated to helping service-based entrepreneurs leverage the power of video to enhance their online presence and achieve their business goals. Through her expertise in video production, she empowers entrepreneurs to create effective YouTube videos that showcase their knowledge and expertise in their field, attract new customers, and build a loyal following. By providing her clients with the tools and guidance they need to produce high-quality videos without a steep learning curve, she helps them build the confidence they need to succeed. In addition to her technical expertise, Edie is also a skilled strategist who understands the nuances of YouTube and how to use it effectively to reach a target audience. She helps her clients to develop content that is tailored to their specific niche and optimized for the platform, ensuring that their videos are seen by the people who are most likely to be interested in their services. Whether you are a newbie or an experienced entrepreneur, her expertise and guidance can help you take your YouTube channel to the next level.

Learn more about Edie:

· Website: https://edieclarke.com

· LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/VirtuallyInSync

· Facebook: https://facebook.com/VirtuallyInSync

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtNpTQTFjuN6Tjs52JB7zUQ

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/got-lead-great-book-thats-impacted-your-work-life-me-john/

The Book Leads – Episode 47: Andrew Beamon & From Promises To Progress: A Leadership Guide To Help Organizations Avoid Common Mishaps And Bring Their Racial Equity Aspirations To Life

I recently sat down with Andrew, a Corporate Social Responsibility Professional, Author, and fellow University of Hartford Alum, to discuss his career and experiences leading up to his new book.

Beyond continuing the conversation that seems to fade back into discomfort between major racist tragedies and murders, he's pushing it further so ompanies understand what they can do beyond instinctively grabbing for the low-hanging fruit of launching surface-level campaigns and reworking public perceptions.

He wants them to dive deeper.

These open, honest, and learning conversations are what I would love to see more of – where each person is sharing their experience and understanding. We’re not always going to get it perfect, but the conversations should be equal parts honesty and patience.

As for companies operating in today’s society: No more lip service and facades. Do right by your people and community.

Episode Highlights

• Examples of companies called out for racist practices and missteps;
• How companies can take their anti-racist responsibility seriously;
• His experience going to an HBCU;
• The difficulty he found in expressing what he was feeling after various senseless high-profile murders of black men; and
• The difficulty that exists in having these conversations in society.

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Andrew is, What steps are you and/or your company taking in the fight against racism?

Andrew’s Bio

Andrew Beamon is an experienced professional in Corporate Social Responsibility, Racial Equity, Human Resource Strategy, and Economic Development.  Prior to joining a global financial institution to lead the U.S. Corporate Citizenship Colleague Engagement Programs, he worked as the Director of Field Operations for the SCORE Association, and as a Human Capital Consultant with The Gallup Organization. Andrew earned his bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in hospitality and tourism administration from North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina, and his master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Hartford in Hartford, Connecticut. He completed Georgetown's Strategic Diversity & Inclusion Management Executive Certification and Boston College's Certification in Strategic Corporate Citizenship Management. Currently resides back in his hometown, Waterbury, Connecticut.

Learn more about Andrew Beamon:

• Website: www.andrewbeamon.com 
• Book: https://www.amazon.com/Promises-Progress-leadership-organizations-aspirations-ebook/dp/B0BSSQDGML/ref=sr_1_1?crid=187C5PLQO81SW&keywords=from+promises+to+progress&qid=1681229599&s=digital-text&sprefix=from+promi%2Cdigital-text%2C2330&sr=1-1

Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠

Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 46: Ally Berthiaume & Dear Universe, I Get It Now: Letters on the Art and Journey of Being Brave and Being Me.

I recently sat down with Book Coach, Writing Guide, and Ghostwriter, Ally Berthiaume, to discuss her career in and passion for writing, and her book.

Here’s another creative in my circle who is sharing her story with me. This is yet another story of someone who goes down a path in life that just doesn’t feel right, all the while feeling something is whispering in her ear, beckoning her to take a different path. In our talk she shares with me that journey and what happened when everything finally clicked.

Ally’s book is made up of letters she wrote to the universe, walking it through the emotions and experiences of various periods through her life, the good, the bad, the ugly.

It’s amazing how we can look back at all we made it through and see it all with a different lens, even laughing at the chaos of the hard times, knowing we made it through and that we’re better for it.

So many of us have similar over-arching themes to our lives but that remain so unique to who we are.

We all have the opportunity to look back. We all have the opportunity to learn. We all have the opportunity to laugh.

It looks different from one person to the next, but the answers to most of what we need are there – in the past.

Episode Highlights

• ·Her work has a lot of cross-over between her loves of psychology and creative writing, for which the center of it all is the human story and experience.
• She talks about one of the most pivotal moments in her life, when she had 2 months of living expenses, a hope, and a dream, and never looked back. (Although she still thinks it was a bit insane.)
• “If you can impact one person, I know you can impact many more.”
• We’re all asked, “WHAT do you want to be when you grow up?” when it should be “WHO do you want to be when you grow up?”

The MAIN QUESTION underlying my conversation with Ally is, If you could send the universe letters, how would writing about each of the major experiences in your life change you?

Ally’s Bio

Ally is the founder of The Write Place, Right Time, her virtual boutique of book coaching and ghostwriting services. As a writing guide or ghost, Ally serves leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries across North America and Europe who know they have the power to activate healing (their own and their readers’) by sharing their stories and spreading their message. She supports her clients in writing the book that will light up their world and ours. Ally is also the author of Dear Universe, I Get it Now: Letters on the Art and Journey of Being Brave and Being Me. She's co-authoring her next upcoming book, due out sometime this August of 2023 (which is currently still untitled) but that will focus on helping newbie nonfiction authors write, publish, and promote their books. When she's not at the keyboard or stuck inside a book, you'll find her drinking Maple Lattes, solving the most recent Hunt-a-Killer case, watching The Princess Bride for the umpteenth time, or spending time with her husband and son.

Learn more about Ally:

• Website: thewriteplacerighttime.com
• Ally’s Book: ayberthiaume.com/dearuniverse

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• Watch the episode on YouTube: ⁠https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe⁠
• Learn more about The Book Leads: ⁠https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck⁠

The Book Leads – Episode 45: Jim Frawley & Adapting In Motion: Finding Your Place In The New Economy

There are two major lessons I’ve learned from my conversations while hosting The Book Leads. First, preparation is everything. Getting ready before we have to be ready, not waiting until the urgency is upon us, sets us up in a better position for what’s coming. And second, just how much we can learn from the children around us – and even our own inner child.

This episode’s conversation is no exception. During this talk with Jim, he walks us through what he conveys are the critical steps needed to adapt to unforeseen change. The two components I mentioned above come up in this conversation. First, the bulk of Jim’s work is preparing his clients and their workforces for unexpected change. Second, part of that preparation is knowing what we don’t know, being curious, and tapping into the wonder of children who are always exploring and always asking questions.

Some highlights from this episode:

• One of my favorites: The importance of micro-interactions.
• To be active adapter, you have to have an opinion and belief system – most people don’t have it.
• Most questions come with judgements and assumptions. How do we shed those?
• The reason kids are so happy is because they’re asking questions, with awe and wonder, while adults are miserable because they have all the answers.

Other Notable Mentions:

• Book: The Art of Focused Conversation: 100 Ways to Access Group Wisdom in the Workplace by R. Brian Stanfield
• Quote: “All human beings have three lives: public, private, and secret.” ― Gabriel García Márquez

The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Jim is, What steps do you take to prepare yourself as best as possible today against changes you can’t see coming in the future?

Jim’s Bio: Jim is the Founder of Bellwether, an executive development community, dedicated to helping both individuals and organizations build resiliency, adapt to change and thrive in rapidly-shifting contexts. Jim provides a range of services, including Keynote Speaking, Executive and Business Coaching and Workshop development and facilitation. He is the Author of "Adapting in Motion: Finding Your Place in the New Economy" and Host of the Bellwether Hub Podcast, Building a library of resources for teams and individuals to continually develop themselves. He has worked with clients in eight countries and thirty-nine states to date to create and implement change management, corporate training, and strategic planning programs, as well as organizational re-designs. His specialties include executive communications, self-efficacy and accountability, and preparing for change when we don’t know what change is coming.

Learn more about Jim and his work:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/jimfrawleyNY 
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jim_frawley 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellwetherhub 
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDoi8Pzqx5D-gL31aT_qWaA 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimfrawleyNY/ 
• Website: https://www.bellwetherhub.com 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe

Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

The Book Leads – Episode 44: Tia Hawkins & Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Tranforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent and Lead by Brene Brown

I recently sat down with my childhood friend Tia Hawkins to talk about her journey to today and how Brene Brown’s book has influenced her path, development, and success.

The book is about opening up with vulnerability and putting yourself out there in the arena of life. Sometimes we want to hold on to safety and familiarity, and in the process, we let ourselves down. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Tia seemed to find the book at the most challenging time in her life. Since that time, my friend, a Registered Nurse, Wellness Coach/Educator, Speaker and Author, has been sharing her message with others, helping them take care of themselves, to find that courage to move beyond their own perceived limitations.

Some highlights from this episode:

• “It’s not about success or failure, because the journey is going to teach you.”
• Asking yourself, How do I live this way instead of getting the tools to not live this way anymore?
• Your passions as a kid don’t leave you; they are just hidden deep inside you.

The MAIN QUESTION for you, which underlies my conversation with Lisa is, how have you been vulnerable, opening yourself up and stepping into the arena of life and into your greatness?

Tia’s Bio:

Tia is a Registered Nurse, Wellness Coach/Educator, Speaker and Author. Combining both education and life experiences, Tia has gained a social media presence for her wise quotes, relatable life stores, and transparent advice. Her words have been published online by some of the biggest parenting forums on social media today, including Today Parents, Scary Mommy, Love What Matters, and, Her View From Home. Tia has a passion to guide others through the wilderness of life’s journeys and extends a personal vulnerability others can relate to. Tia’s words will soon be going from virtual to bookshelves with her first published print piece in the book, “So God Made A Mother,” Written by Leslie Means and which hits shelves in April 2023.

Learn more about Tia:

• http://www.teatalkswithtia.com 
• Social Media Platforms: @teatalkswithtia

Learn more about The Book Leads and listen to past episodes:

• YouTube Page: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe
• Spotify: https://lnkd.in/etCRYyc
• Google Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eu-Re-P
• Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/dxRSTXZX 

• The Book Leads - Blog Post: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ey_KTZe

Learn more about The Book Leads: https://lnkd.in/eFb76ck