Stay On Course: Ingredients for Success

Rebellious Success: Failure, Bigger Games, and Playing Full OutGuest: Toni Will | Host: Julie Riga | Stay On Course PodcastWhat if failure was your greatest leadership asset? In this bold and energizing episode, Julie Riga sits down with Toni Will, a two-time Guinness World Record holder, General Manager of the Kalamazoo Wings, TEDx speaker, entrepreneur, and author of the upcoming book Rebellious Success. Toni brings contagious energy and hard-won wisdom to a conversation about competence, confidence, and what it truly means to step into your bigger game. She shares her framework for building self-trust through failure, explains why playing small keeps everyone around you stuck, and challenges listeners to declare a bigger game before they feel ready to do it.Rebellious Success: Failure, Bigger Games, and Playing Full OutAbout This EpisodeToni Will is a powerhouse leader who blends elite performance with hard-earned connection, proving that competence and community can coexist. As General Manager of a men's professional hockey team, a professional development coach, and a soon-to-be published author, Toni lives at the intersection of leadership, resilience, and authentic growth. In this episode, she and Julie dig into three transformative ingredients for success that challenge everything you thought you knew about failure, purpose, and personal evolution.Fun Fact: Toni's favorite food is sushi, anything from the grocery store all the way up to fresh-caught in Hawaii.Three Ingredients for SuccessInvite Failure to the Table: Failure is not the opposite of success. Quitting is. The failure resume asks you to write down everything you have walked through and survived. What emerges is not a record of loss but a portrait of resilience, self-trust, and wisdom. When you stop fearing failure and start inviting it, it becomes one of your greatest tools for growth, confidence, and transformation.Stop Playing Small: Because Someone Else Is Playing small to make others comfortable keeps everyone stuck, including you. Authentic leadership means showing up fully, reading the room with emotional intelligence, and never beginning from a diminished version of yourself. Rising tides lift all ships. Collaboration grounded in core values is always stronger than competition driven by fear.Declare a Bigger Game: Growth does not always mean moving up. Sometimes it means growing out. Every micro-decision you make each day either aligns with your next level or holds you back from it. Act from the next level now. Ask not only what something costs you to pursue, but what it costs you to stay exactly where you are.Memorable Quotes"The only time you are failing is when you quit trying." "Stop playing small because someone else is." "The story we tell ourselves about ourselves gets in the room before we do." "What is the cost if I do not do it? Because there is always a cost."Key TakeawaysBuild a failure resume and transform it into your record of courage and growthStop playing small. Full authentic presence is a leadership skillDeclare your bigger game before you feel ready and lead from that placeAlign your actions with core values to unlock clarity, confidence, and self-trustInvest in yourself. The ROI of personal growth compounds over timeAbout Toni's Book: Rebellious Success One part memoir, one part self-help, one part business leadership. A complete roadmap for defining success on your own terms and building it without apology. Pre-order opens March 13th. Book launches August 11th.Connect with Toni WillConference: empowHer Book: Rebellious SuccessConnect with Julie RigaStay On Course PodcastLeadership Coachingjulieriga.com/lead#StayOnCourse #RebelliousSuccess #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDriven #WomenInLeadershipSubscribe to Stay On Course Podcast wherever you listen. Share this episode with the leaders and game-changers in your life who are ready to play bigger.

Your Brand Is Your Business Outfit: The Unspoken Rules of Brand Identity That Drive Real GrowthGuest: Lexy Rubin, Owner and Creative Director of Rubin Design Company Host: Julie RigaOverviewIn this episode of the Stay On Course Podcast, Julie Riga sits down with Lexy Rubin, Owner and Creative Director of Rubin Design Company, an award-winning branding agency in South Florida. Lexy is a purpose-driven brand strategist whose career spans NASA internships, New York City corporate branding, and 11 years building her own legacy as a founder.Together, they explore what it truly means to build a brand that connects and stands the test of time. From first impression psychology to the rise of AI in design, this conversation delivers authentic growth strategies for entrepreneurs and business leaders ready to elevate their brand.Your Brand Is Your Business Outfit: The Unspoken Rules of Brand Identity That Drive Real GrowthAbout Lexy RubinLexy Rubin is the owner and creative director of Rubin Design Company, a South Florida-based branding agency offering custom logo design services, brand identity design, and brand strategy consulting nationwide. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, she became the first graphic designer to intern at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, then worked with Bath and Body Works and L'Oreal in New York City.Fun Fact: Lexy's favorite food is Chicken Romano from the Cheesecake Factory.Key Topics DiscussedWhat Is a Brand, Really? Your brand is your business's first impression. It is the outfit your company wears every day. It shapes purchasing decisions, team recruitment, and client trust before a word is spoken.Why Professional Branding Matters in 2026 Working with a professional logo designer or corporate branding agency is your foundation. With AI everywhere, authentic human-crafted brand identity is a genuine competitive advantage. Apple, Nike, and Starbucks invest heavily in branding because perception is everything.The AI Question Every Business Owner Is Asking Can AI replace custom logo design services? Lexy says not at the soul level. There is an emotional and spiritual dimension to brand identity that no algorithm can replicate. Investment in professional brand strategy consulting is more urgent than ever.Branding Trends for 2025 to 2026 Typography is king, with bespoke typefaces driving personality across logos, websites, and cards. Motion graphics are replacing static visuals. Video-first design is now expected. If your brand has not been refreshed in ten or more years, it is outdated.You Are the Brand Your personal leadership presence and business brand are inseparable. In the age of AI cloning, being authentically yourself is your single most powerful asset.Memorable Quotes"Your brand is basically your first impression. It is the outfit your business wears.""The real, authentic version of yourself is going to be craved now more than ever because of AI.""There is a magical recipe to great brand identity: part logic, part skill, part soul."Key TakeawaysYour brand is your foundation. Get it right before you scale.Authenticity is your superpower in a world of AI-generated content.Every touchpoint is a brand moment: your logo, LinkedIn, and background.Refresh your visual identity as trends and audience expectations evolve.You are the brand. Leadership presence and professional branding are inseparable.Connect with Lexy RubinWebsite: www.RubinDesignCo.comLinkedIn and Facebook: Rubin Design CoConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadCoaching: Learn more about leadership coaching and transformation#BrandIdentity #StayOnCourse #AuthenticLeadership #PurposeDrivenBusiness #BrandingTips2026Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with any business owner who needs to hear this.

When Uncommon Becomes Destiny: Faith, Discipline, and Divine Alignment Transform Your Calling into PurposeGuest: Minister Bernard Marrow Host: Julie RigaWhat happens when you stop trying to fit in and start owning the uncommon path God placed in you? In this episode of Stay On Course, host Julie Riga sits down with Minister Bernard Marrow, founder of By Faith We Good Ministry Inc., musician, author, and motivational speaker. Together they explore how divine alignment, unshakeable faith, and purposeful community can transform isolation into destiny. If you have ever felt too different, too early, or too overlooked, this conversation is for you.When Uncommon Becomes Destiny: Faith, Discipline, and Divine Alignment Transform Your Calling into PurposeMinister Bernard Marrow is the founder and president of By Faith We Good Ministry Inc., a 501(c)(3) faith-based nonprofit that spreads the gospel of Jesus Christ, feeds families in need every month, and sows into the purpose of others. He is also the owner and CEO of Shop BFWG LLC and a multi-faceted creative: singer, songwriter, musician, author, and motivational speaker. He hosts the By Faith We Good Podcast and Radio Show, which includes a Faith and Finance segment covering investments, budgeting, and money management.Fun Fact: Minister Bernard's favorite dish is seafood pasta, known in Italian as frutti di mare.Key TopicsDivine Alignment and Ownership Recognizing your God-given sweet spot and refusing to operate in someone else's lane. You always win when you are in full alignment with your divine purpose and destiny. Comparing yourself to others will only pull you off course.Discipline Through the Process God's timing differs from your timeline. Staying focused, equipped, and inspired even when results are delayed is what separates those who eventually manifest greatness from those who give up just before the breakthrough arrives.Purposeful Community and Legacy Being deeply intentional about who you share your vision with, and transforming seasons of isolation into community-supported, purpose-driven progress toward a greater calling and a lasting legacy.Memorable Quotes"Everything that's comfortable ain't safe.""When God calls you, he calls you to do what's uncommon. He wants us to stand out, to be great, bold, and fearless.""No doesn't mean never. Not yet doesn't mean not ever. If you don't give up, the doors will open.""You can't share everything with everybody. Trust God to connect you with the right people."Key TakeawaysOwn Your Uncommonness - You were not made to fit in. Your uniqueness is your superpower. Take full ownership of who God created you to be.Trust the Process - Stay committed to the alignment and manifestation will follow. Keep going even when you cannot see the finish line.Comfort Is Not Safety - The familiar can be the enemy of the extraordinary. Step out of your comfort zone in faith.Guard Your Vision - Not everyone deserves access to what God placed inside you. Be wise about who you allow into your inner circle.No Is Not the End - Rejection and delay are part of the journey, not the destination. Stay the course.Connect with Minister Bernard MarrowLinkedIn: Minister Bernard MarrowFacebook: By Faith We Good Ministry Inc.Instagram: @ministermarrow / @min.marrowPodcast: By Faith We Good Podcast and Radio ShowShop: Shop BFWG LLCConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastWebsite: julieriga.com/leadRole: Leadership Coach and Transformation GuideSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with every purpose-driven leader and creative ready to own their uncommon destiny.#StayOnCourse #PurposeDriven #LeadershipMindset #ByFaithWeGood #UncommonDestiny

Embracing Imposter Syndrome: The Secret Ingredient to SuccessAbout This EpisodeIn this episode, Julie sits down with Jennifer Fidder, a social psychologist and hypnotist with nearly two decades of coaching experience in health and wellness. Jennifer teaches others how to use the power of their subconscious mind to experience more happiness, health, and success.Together, they blow open the doors on imposter syndrome, revealing why it's actually a sign you're on the right track and sharing the essential ingredients for transforming this "syndrome" into your secret weapon for success.Guest BackgroundJennifer Fidder is a social psychologist, hypnotist, and speaker with a background in health and wellness. With nearly two decades of coaching experience, she specializes in helping people harness their subconscious mind for greater happiness, health, and success. Jennifer was previously a personal fitness trainer and nutrition coach, giving her deep insights into the psychology of transformation and expertise development.Fun Fact: Jennifer's favorite food is blueberries because they taste amazing, make the perfect grab-and-go snack, and are packed with antioxidants - the ultimate superfood for busy professionals.The Reframe: Imposter Syndrome as a Guiding SystemNot a stopping system - it's information, not a roadblockYour body and mind telling you: "You're on the right track"Similar to anxiety - it's guidance about what's important, not something to fearA sign of leveling up - embrace it instead of fighting itPractical Strategies for SuccessThe Testimonial Folder Technique:Keep a folder on your phone with client testimonials and positive feedbackScreenshot compliments and success storiesReview during tough days when self-doubt creeps inReminder of the real transformation you're creatingFocus on Process Over Outcome:You cannot control outcomes 100%You can control your effort and approachDon't hang your happiness and self-worth on specific resultsTrust the process, especially when the bank account is a constant reference pointWhat's Next for JenniferJennifer is launching her first in-person self-hypnosis workshop in over 5 years on June 28th in Fort Lauderdale. After running this exact workshop virtually for five years, she's excited to bring back the in-person experience and energy.Connect with Jennifer Fidderlinkedin.com/in/jennifer-fidder-coachingConnect with Julie Rigawww.julieriga.comKey Takeaways for LeadersReframe Imposter Syndrome: It's a sign you're growing, not failingDocument Your Wins: Keep evidence of your impact for tough daysFocus on Process: Control what you can, release what you can'tEmbrace the Journey: Every level brings new challenges - that's normalKnow Your Risk Tolerance: Be honest about entrepreneurship fitCelebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress along the wayTrust Your Expertise: You know more than you think you doNext StepsIf you're struggling with imposter syndrome, start by creating your own "testimonial folder" and begin collecting evidence of your impact. Remember: if you're experiencing imposter syndrome, you're probably exactly where you need to be - on the path of growth and expansion.This episode is perfect for sharing with entrepreneurs, coaches, and leaders who are letting self-doubt hold them back from their next level of success.🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts 💡 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear that imposter syndrome is actually their superpower

From Trauma to Triumph: The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic GrowthGuest: David Dachinger, Retired Fire Lieutenant, EMT, Peer Coach and Grammy-Nominated Producer Host: Julie RigaWhat if your greatest trauma became your most powerful mission? In this transformational episode, Julie Riga sits down with David Dachinger, a stage four cancer survivor, retired fire lieutenant, Grammy-nominated producer, and resilience advocate, to unpack the three essential ingredients for post-traumatic growth: identity release, meaning making, and mission activation. This is a conversation about courage, clarity, and the power of choosing life.From Trauma to Triumph: The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic GrowthAbout This EpisodeIn this deeply moving episode, Julie Riga welcomes David Dachinger, a clear testament to transformation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. Together they explore what it means to evolve through adversity and how every leader and entrepreneur can activate their own post-traumatic growth journey. David shares how a stage four cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for a legacy of healing, purpose, and mission activation.Guest BackgroundDavid Dachinger is a retired fire lieutenant and EMT who hosts Responder's Resilience: Igniting the Shift Within, engaging experts on first responder mental health. He serves as a peer coach for 22ZERO, supporting first responders and veterans. A two-time Grammy Award nominee, his life changed in 2014 with a stage four cancer diagnosis that became the foundation of his advocacy for purposeful living and wellness.Fun Fact: David's favorite food is the Holy Shiitake pizza from Mellow Mushroom.The Three Ingredients for Post-Traumatic Growth1. Identity Release A stage four diagnosis instantly shifted David from caregiver to patient. Clinging to a victim identity blocks transformation. Through intentional word choice and daily gratitude, he released the old self and stepped into a healed identity. Like the lobster, we must shed the old shell to grow a stronger one.2. Meaning Making The same event affects people differently because it is the meaning we assign that determines our outcome. David reframed adversity by asking, "What is the gift in this?" Gratitude practice, present-moment awareness, and a shift in self-talk became his most powerful tools. Words, he discovered, are medicine.3. Mission Activation David and his wife created Live Calm with Cancer, a book, app, and calming TV experience for patients. He then joined 22ZERO to help first responders, veterans, and cancer patients heal trauma. His full-circle return to cancer advocacy, equipped with lived experience and proven tools, is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose.Key Quotes"Suffering is optional. We have a choice in every situation.""How do I turn these adversities into my superpower?""We are powerful creators. Positive self-talk is the core of all of it."Key Takeaways for LeadersRelease the old identity. Growth begins when you stop defining yourself by trauma or circumstance.Make meaning intentionally. The meaning you assign to adversity determines whether it becomes a wound or a wisdom.Activate your mission. Pain with purpose becomes power. Your story is meant to serve someone else's transformation.Words are medicine. Language shapes belief, belief shapes biology, and biology shapes your life.Suffering is optional. You always have a choice, and that choice is the foundation of fulfillment and legacy.ConnectDavid Dachinger: www.respondertv.com | 22ZERO: www.22zero.org | LinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookJulie Riga: www.julieriga.com/lead | LinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#StayOnCourse #PostTraumaticGrowth #Leadership #Transformation #PurposeDriven

Selling from the Soul: Confidence, Grit and Purpose-Driven SuccessHost: Julie Riga | Guest: Monique IacobacciWhat does it truly take to show up every day with confidence, resilience, and authentic purpose, even when doors are being slammed in your face? In this heartfelt episode, Julie Riga sits down with her longtime friend and powerhouse sales leader Monique Iacobacci to explore the mindset and soul-driven conviction behind over a decade of transformational selling. From polar-vortex cold calls on the New York City subway to becoming Business Development Manager of the Year, Monique shares the ingredients for success that no sales manual can fully capture.Selling from the Soul: Confidence, Grit and Purpose-Driven SuccessAbout the GuestMonique Iacobacci is an Executive Business Development Manager for the number one professional skincare brand in the country, working with plastic surgeons, dermatologists, high-end spas, and aesthetic clinics. With over thirteen years in her field, she has broken sales records, earned Rookie of the Year honors, and helped transform New York City into one of her company's strongest markets. She brings analytical precision and genuine human warmth to everything she does.Fun Fact: Monique's favorite food is pizza with hot honey pepperoni, a bold and unexpected twist that perfectly mirrors her approach to sales and to life.The Three Ingredients for Success1. Confidence in Who You Are and What You Know Walk in knowing your product, your value, and your purpose fully. Confidence is the clarity and conviction that you have something genuinely meaningful to offer. Without it, no strategy will carry you far.2. A Service-First Mindset Approach every interaction with sincerity and a genuine desire to help. Selling stops feeling like selling when you show up as a trusted partner committed to solving your client's real problems.3. Intentional Focus and Discipline Conversations drift. The best professionals bring them back. Stay present, stay purposeful, and always return to what moves the relationship and the result forward.Filling Your Cup and Building ResilienceMonique's secret to sustained performance is a faith-anchored mindset shift: choosing to declare each day will be great, even when every instinct says otherwise. Her core philosophy: you are the brand. If your cup is not full, you have nothing to pour into others. Prioritizing yourself is not selfishness. It is the foundation of authentic leadership, confident presence, lasting impact, and purposeful living. Fill up so you can fully show up.Key Takeaways for LeadersFill Your Cup First - Self-leadership is the foundation of showing up with the energy and confidence that wins trust.Believe in Your Value - Conviction is contagious. When you know you can help someone, that certainty does half the work.Rejection Is Redirection - A no is rarely final. Treat every closed door as a not yet and keep nurturing the relationship.Ask Better Questions - The most powerful sales tool is a mirror. Ask questions that help your client see their own gap.Stay On Course - Keep learning, evolving, and challenging yourself every day. Growth does not stop when you hit your goals.Memorable Quotes"If my cup isn't filled, how am I supposed to pour into somebody else?""I felt like a doctor knocking on a sick person's door saying, here is medicine that you need and you just don't know it yet.""Nothing worth it is easy. I will tell you that.""Keep sewing into yourself and putting yourself first. That is what gives you the energy and the drive to keep going."Connect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadSocial Media: @julierigaCoaching: Learn more about leadership coaching and transformationThis episode is a must-share for sales leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone building a career grounded in authentic growth, self-leadership, and purpose.#StayOnCourse #PurposeDrivenLeadership #AuthenticGrowth #SalesLeadership #Ingredie

From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniStay On Course Podcast | Host: Julie Riga | Guest: James OrsiniWhat does it really take to build a thriving small business and how do the lessons of the Fortune 500 world translate to the entrepreneurial journey? In this candid and inspiring conversation, Julie Riga sits down with seasoned executive James Orsini to unpack the mindset shifts, operational disciplines, and leadership principles that separate businesses that scale from those that stall. Whether you are a founder, a corporate executive ready to pivot, or a small business owner in the thick of the grind, this episode is packed with transformative insights to help you stay on course.From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniAbout James OrsiniJames Orsini is a seasoned executive leader with more than 35 years of experience as President, CEO, COO, and CFO across high-growth organizations. After an 11-year run at VaynerX alongside Gary Vaynerchuk, where he helped grow the company from $42M to $350M and 2,000 people across 15 offices, James now advises founders and small business leaders through Vyve, Factotum, and J & J Consulting Services, co-founded with his wife Joanne.Fun Fact: James is a proud Italian-American whose ultimate comfort food is his wife's Sunday pasta sauce, slow-cooked for hours every single week.Ingredients for SuccessFocus and Strategic Prioritization Entrepreneurs rarely run out of ideas; they run out of focus. James advocates for working backwards from your endgame and using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize what truly moves the needle each quarter.Knowing When to Hire and Delegate Founders who hold on too tight risk choking their own growth. Tracking yellow hustle time versus green paid time on your calendar reveals exactly when it is time to bring in your first hire and step fully into your leadership role.Integrity Above All Doing the right thing with your employees, vendors, and partners, even when nobody is watching, creates a reputation that outlives any single business venture. James calls this the most enduring ingredient for success.Community and Accountability Leadership can be lonely. Investing in a mastermind, coaching program, or peer group compresses your learning curve and gives you the sounding board every leader needs. Iron sharpens iron.Culture as Your Competitive Advantage VaynerMedia maintained a 17% voluntary turnover rate in an industry averaging over 35%. Hire for kindness and empathy first, then teach the skills. Culture is your most sustainable edge.Memorable Quotes"Doing the right thing is always the right thing, even when people are not looking.""Some founders squeeze the baby so tight, they choke it. Know when to let go and move to the work only you can do.""Work backwards from the legacy you want to leave. That clarity drives every decision."Key TakeawaysTransition from operator to leader. Work on the business, not in it. This mindset shift is the turning point for every founder ready to scale.Build your network with gratitude and empathy. Relationships cultivated with care become your greatest long-term asset.Stay open to pivoting. The business you build two years from now will look nothing like what you imagined today, and that is a strength.Connect with James OrsiniLinkedIn: James OrsiniVyve: @Revive (social handles)Factotum: factotum.comJ & J Consulting Services (LinkedIn)Connect with Julie RigaStay On Course PodcastBefore I Lead Programjulieriga.com/leadSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with every founder and leader who is ready to build something that lasts.#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BeforeILead

When Success Feels Heavy: The Architecture of Trust That HoldsGuest: Debbie Simmons, Legacy Architect, Keynote Speaker and Bestselling Author Host: Julie RigaWhat is your life really built on, and will it hold when pressure hits? In this powerful episode, Julie sits down with Debbie Simmons, founder of the multimillion-dollar nonprofit Anchor Point and creator of the Architecture of Trust. Debbie shares how she turned a breaking point into a blueprint, why hustle and control eventually crack, and how high-capacity leaders can rebuild on a foundation that truly holds.When Success Feels Heavy: The Architecture of Trust That HoldsAbout This EpisodeJulie sits down with Debbie Simmons, a legacy architect, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of Anchor Point, a multimillion-dollar nonprofit based in Houston, Texas. Debbie created the Architecture of Trust to help high-capacity leaders rebuild their foundations when success starts to feel heavy. After walking through profound loss and leadership pressure, she turned her breaking point into a blueprint and today equips CEOs and founders to lead with trust that holds, not hustle that burns out.About Debbie SimmonsDebbie is the founder of Anchor Point, a multimillion-dollar nonprofit giving families hope for over 15 years through medical care, case management, a maternity home, therapeutic camps, and recovery ministry. She is the bestselling author of The Heart of Legacy and creator of the Success to Significance seminar, which helps purpose-driven leaders move from external achievement to internal alignment and lasting impact.Fun Fact: Debbie's favorite food is cheesecake, plain with a good graham cracker crust. As she says, "it's not my friend!"The Three Ingredients for Trust-Based Leadership Success1. Know What You Are Trusting Stop and honestly identify the default patterns you reach for under pressure. For most entrepreneurs and executives, it is hustle, control, silence, urgency, or self-reliance. Debbie's core principle: if you can name it, you can tame it. Reflect on what you actually did the last time the pressure hit and you will discover what your foundation is truly built on.2. Be Brave Enough to Shift Courage and fear feel identical. The only difference is that the courageous person acts anyway. Once you identify the pattern, make your best plan, take the leap, and tweak as you go. Leadership growth is a journey of iteration, humility, and intentional living that rewards those who stay the course.3. Invite Accountability and Build Community Name the pattern you are working on and share it with a trusted coach, mentor, spouse, or friend. Growth accelerates in community and stalls in isolation. When someone safe can call you back to your values and your vision, transformation happens faster. This is self-leadership in action.Key Takeaways for LeadersThe systems that got you here will not take you to your next levelTrust is structural, not emotional. Build systems and teams that hold even when you are not at 100%Moving from success to significance requires inner alignment, not just outward achievementCourage is a daily choice. Do it, tweak it, and do it againMemorable Quotes"What is your life really built on, and will it hold when pressure hits?""The things that got you here will not take you to your next level.""If you can name it, you can tame it.""The difference between courageous and fearful is that the courageous person does it anyway."Connect with Debbie SimmonsWebsite: www.thedebbiesimmons.comSuccess to Significance Seminar: www.successandsignificance.netFree Book Download: www.theheartoflegacy.comConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadCoaching: Learn more about leadership coaching#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDrivenLeadership #LegacyBuilding #AuthenticGrowth

Unlocking AI Potential: Ingredients for Success with Sasan GhorbaniIn this special episode of The Stay on Course podcast, host Julie Riga welcomes Sasan Ghorbani, Founder of Alpicus, an AI platform designed to simplify AI for businesses. Hassan shares his insights on the key ingredients for success in using AI, highlighting the importance of mindset, the art of the possible, and automation in achieving success.Key Ingredients for SuccessMindset: Having an open mindset around AI and its possibilities is crucial for success.The Art of the Possible: Identifying the ideal outcome and working backwards to achieve it, rather than being limited by current capabilities.Automation: Using AI to automate business processes, such as recruitment and hiring, can save time and increase productivity.Podcast OverviewSasan's journey and insights offer a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in today's fast-paced, technologically driven world. From the importance of mindset and the art of the possible to the power of automation, this episode provides invaluable lessons for anyone looking to elevate their personal and professional life.Summary of Key Ingredients for SuccessMindset: Having an open mindset around AI and its possibilities is crucial for success.The Art of the Possible: Identifying the ideal outcome and working backwards to achieve it, rather than being limited by current capabilities.Automation: Using AI to automate business processes, such as recruitment and hiring, can save time and increase productivity.About Sasan GhorbaniSasan Ghorbani is the Founder of Alpicus, an AI platform designed to simplify AI for businesses. With a focus on innovation and customer experience, Hassan drives the development of impactful projects and products.Learn more about Sasan: linkedin.com/in/sasan-gAbout Julie RigaJulie is a certified coach, trainer, and speaker with 20+ years of experience in empowering professionals and businesses to achieve success.Learn More About Julie: Julie Riga Website#AIBusiness #ArtOfThePossible #Automation #SuccessMindset #Innovation #CustomerExperience #ProductivityHacks #SelfImprovement #NetworkingTips #ProfessionalDevelopment #GoalOriented #HighAchievers #AIEngineering #PromptEngineering #LanguageModels #BusinessGrowth #Technology #FutureOfWork

From Content Overload to Curated Influence: The Future of ConnectionOverviewIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Kyle Hudson, founder and CEO of Stacklist, to explore how curation, not content creation, is becoming the future of trust and influence in an AI-driven world. Kyle shares his journey from building digital solutions for Google, Disney, and Coca-Cola to creating a platform that helps service professionals own their client relationships. Together, they dive into the ingredients for success in today's rapidly evolving landscape, discussing tech stack management, experimental mindsets, and becoming omnipotential leaders.From Content Overload to Curated Influence: The Future of ConnectionGuest: Kyle Hudson, Founder & CEO of StacklistHost: Julie RigaGuest BackgroundKyle Hudson is the founder and CEO of Stacklist, The Social Curation Network, helping service professionals turn local knowledge into shareable, AI-discoverable hubs. With a proven track record building digital solutions for brands like Google, Disney, and Coca-Cola, Kyle now focuses on empowering experts to own their client relationships rather than renting attention from social media platforms. Kyle is a member of the "Nintendo generation" (born 1979), shaped by growing up with technology as native rather than novel. His philosophy centers on omnipotential: the belief that you have the potential to be many things, not just one specialist.Fun Fact: Kyle is a burger connoisseur who dips his fries in mustard!Key Topics DiscussedThe Ingredients for Success:Curiosity & Experimental Mindset - Being open to trying new tools without fear of failure, treating business as one big lab experiment, and learning by doing rather than waiting for perfection.Fluidity & Adaptability - Avoiding vendor lock-in, being willing to scrap established systems for better solutions, and building the "Swiss Army Knife" skillset instead of narrow specialization.Omnipotential Leadership - Embracing multiple roles as an entrepreneur, understanding you're not defined by one label, and how generalists with AI partners become superhuman.Tech Stack Management: The $2000/month subscription problem, using Slack and Zoom as foundations, Linear as an elegant alternative to Jira, Claude Code for financial projections and custom agents. Strategy: Lock into solutions, not vendors.The Stacklist Philosophy: Curation over content creation, transforming personal expertise into discoverable resources, helping professionals own relationships instead of depending on algorithms. Everyone is known for something valuable.Memorable Quotes"Omnipotential is this idea that you are not X, you have the potential to be X, Y, Z, and A, B, C.""I just jump off the cliff, and as I'm falling, I'm learning. That's how I do it.""You only have to worry about AI taking your job if you're standing still. But if you're diving into it, you're learning skills you can teach others."Key InsightsKyle identifies as part of the "Nintendo generation," those who grew up with technology as native rather than novel, creating a fundamental difference in how leaders approach innovation. The conversation validates entrepreneurs who didn't fit the corporate mold. In the AI era, the valuable entrepreneur is the curious generalist who can leverage AI to solve novel problems.Action StepsAudit your tech stack and eliminate 70%Try one new AI tool this weekCreate your stack on Stacklist with your favorite topicsSchedule experimentation timeConnect: stacklist.app/kyle Connect: Stay On Course with Julie RigaEssential listening for entrepreneurs who want to thrive in an AI-driven future.#Leadership #Innovation #AI #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth

Living with Purpose Today So You're Remembered Tomorrow: The Sacred Art of Legacy BuildingOverviewIn a world that often feels overwhelming and chaotic, Rabbi Daniel Cohen reminds us that our greatest power lies not in changing the entire world, but in transforming one moment, one encounter, one life at a time. This deeply inspiring conversation explores the sacred ingredients for living with intentional purpose and creating a legacy that matters - starting today, not someday. Through powerful stories of doormen who pray, strangers who say "get up," and the profound difference between being "great" and being "grateful," Rabbi Cohen illuminates the path to authentic leadership and meaningful impact.Living with Purpose Today So You're Remembered Tomorrow: The Sacred Art of Legacy BuildingGuest: Rabbi Daniel Cohen, Spiritual Leader of Congregation Agudath ShalomHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie sits down with Rabbi Daniel Cohen, nationally sought-after speaker and author dedicated to helping people design their lives around meaning, purpose, and legacy. Through his book What Will They Say About You When You're Gone? and his Legacy Academy, Rabbi Cohen inspires audiences to become their best selves.Fun Fact: His favorite food is his wife's chocolate chip cookies - fitting, since his first word was "cookie."The Three Sacred Ingredients for Success1. Making Every Encounter Matter The power of small gestures. Elevator moments and hospital hallways as sacred opportunities. How a doorman's prayer changed a cancer patient's journey. The story of "Get up, get up" that created fifty years of legacy.2. Creating Space to Hear the Soul Moving away the layers to discover what's within us. Seizing meditative moments: walking without your phone, writing, praying, silence. The Sabbath principle: turning off the outside world to turn on the inner world. Aligning your body with your soul.3. Living with Intention - Daily, Not Someday The unpolished diamond: God gives us a new one every day to polish and radiate light. The three ultimate questions: Did I live? Did I love? Did I matter? Making time count rather than letting time pass.Memorable Quotes"God's not asking us to change the world, but to change the world of one person every day.""When you wake up in the morning, God believes the world needs you. And when you live with that awareness, no encounter is random.""The moment you add on those three letters - 'ful' - you become filled with a whole new way of living, because you're not just great, you're grateful.""Every day we get an unpolished diamond, and God asks us: how much of that light did you radiate?"Key InsightsThe Hospital Doorman: A cancer patient at Sloan Kettering said the most memorable person wasn't a doctor or nurse, but the doorman who said: "I'll pray for you and I hope I'll never see you again." The doorman understood he stood at the threshold where people leave with anxiety.The "Get Up" Legacy: A Holocaust survivor shared that after liberation, he was too weak to stand. A friend said simply: "Get up, get up." Fifty years later, he told hundreds including his wife, children, and students: "Everything I have, I owe to my friend who said those words. Without him, I would not be here today."Key TakeawaysFocus on small, meaningful acts of kindness that lift someone upCreate space to hear your soul - turn off the outside world regularlyPolish your diamond daily: How much light did I radiate today?Words carry weight and light - never underestimate their powerLive with grateful, not just greatAnswer the three questions now: Did I live? Did I love? Did I matter?No encounter is random when you live with awarenessConnectRabbi Daniel Cohen: www.rabbidanielcohen.comJulie Riga: Stay On Course PodcastSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.

Secrets to Transform Your Business and Lead with Purpose with Versaviya DesparsIn this Stay on Course podcast episode, host Julie Riga dives deep into the evolution of brand storytelling with branding expert Versaviya Despars. They explore how to help your business resolve conflict between your brand’s persona and your audience's needs by using the foundation of storytelling. Versaviya shares unbelievable tips to make your story guide your audience to their desired resolution and success.Learn how to identify the purpose behind your customer’s challenge, teach them how to resolve their pain points, and transform your messaging to motivate and liberate your audience. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or corporate leader, discover how to earn your customers’ faith and build a legacy that’s worth remembering.Versaviya also reveals how platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn can amplify your message and create abundance for your business. Using a Hollywood approach to storytelling, she shows how to evolve your brand’s personality and connect with your audience’s soul.Whether you're a seeker striving for esteem or a brand aiming to lead in the new world of marketing, this episode is packed with scrumptious insights. Don't miss this journey to unlock the secret to a story-driven brand and become the star of your industry.🔗 Learn more about Versaviya Despars and her work at pivotbranding.co.To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you Stay On Course, visit her website: www.stayoncourse.ioJulie Riga is a certified coach, trainer, speaker and author with over 20 years of experience in the Pharma Industry. Julie’s education is vast with studies that include business, communications, training and executive coaching. Julie started on this journey because she had a strong desire to pass on the knowledge and skills passed on to her by her father, Ennio Riga, and inspirational man who taught her how to keep going irrespective of the challenges that life may present you with. Based in New Jersey, Julie have travelled the world supporting corporations, business leaders and individuals on their journey of empowerment and growth. Discover your purpose, Stay on Course, Leave a Legacy#pharma #lifescienceleadership #biotech #leadership #stayoncourse #julieriga

Stop Chasing Maybes: The Perfect Fit Client Method for B2B Sales SuccessOverviewIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Nicoleta Hajek, founder of Pro Sales and the voice behind Empower Sales by Nico, for her very first podcast appearance. Nicoleta reveals her powerful Perfect Fit Client Method - a simple yet revolutionary approach that helps SME founders and technical teams build repeatable B2B sales systems. Together, they explore the three-part framework (FIT, IMPACT, URGENCY) that helps entrepreneurs stop wasting time on "maybes" and start selling with confidence and clarity.Stop Chasing Maybes: The Perfect Fit Client Method for B2B Sales SuccessGuest: Nicoleta Hajek, Founder of Pro Sales & Voice Behind Empower Sales by NicoHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie connects with Nicoleta Hajek, a purpose-driven sales strategist who helps SME founders and technical teams transform their sales approach from transactional to relational. Nicoleta shares her signature Perfect Fit Client Method, teaching entrepreneurs how to verify leads, run discovery calls that build trust, and connect value to real business impact while avoiding the time-draining trap of chasing "maybe" clients.Guest BackgroundNicoleta Hajek is the founder of Pro Sales and the inspiring voice behind Empower Sales by Nico. Based in France, Nicoleta specializes in helping SME founders and technical teams build repeatable B2B sales systems that eliminate guesswork and create predictable revenue. Her philosophy centers on less than 10% theory and over 90% practice, ensuring clients master concepts through real-world application.Fun Fact: Nicoleta lives in France, where her favorite food is cheese with a glass of red wine.The Perfect Fit Client Method: FIT, IMPACT, URGENCYFIT - Understanding AlignmentWhat triggered this search right now?What outcomes do you want in the next 90 days?What happens in your business if this stays the same?IMPACT - Quantifying ValueWhat does this problem cost you per month?Where does it show up? (delays, rework, downtime)What metrics do you want to move?URGENCY - Determining TimelineWhy now and why not in six months?What happens if you delay?What deadline matters for you right now?Key InsightsThe 20-Minute Qualifying Call: Nicoleta's method cuts qualifying down to 20-30 minutes to verify FIT, IMPACT, and URGENCY before investing deeper time.Not All Customers Are Your Customers: Understanding that some clients aren't the right fit saves time and preserves energy.Active Listening as a Sales Superpower: The best salespeople listen more than they talk. Ask open-ended questions and truly hear what clients need.Value Beats Features: Clients buy transformation, not specifications. Connect your solution to their transformation, not product features.Memorable Quotes"If one is missing (FIT, IMPACT, or URGENCY) then it's a maybe. And maybe is a tax on your time.""The number one mistake we make every single day is that we talk about our product, our features, our specifications. But what value proposition means is that I identify your three problems, and I transform you into a problem-less person.""Have faith in you, have faith in your product, and listen carefully to your customers to really understand the problems and the transformation you can create for them."Key TakeawaysQualify Early, Qualify Fast: Use FIT, IMPACT, URGENCY in 20-30 minutesListen More, Talk Less: Let prospects speak 80% of the timeNot Everyone Is Your Client: Focus on those you can truly serveBuild Relationships, Not Transactions: Authenticity closes dealsConnect with Nicoleta HajekWebsite: www.empoweredsalesbynico.com LinkedIn: Active and sharing valuable B2B sales insights Free Call: Book a complimentary call to explore sales transformation#Leadership #SalesSuccess #PurposeDriven #Transformation #BusinessGrowth

Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner NeedsIn this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Jeremiah Aut, founder and CEO of Involved Digital Marketing, to explore the strategic foundations that drive sustainable business growth. Jeremiah shares his journey from fragmented experimentation to focused execution, revealing the three essential ingredients that align marketing strategy with long-term success. Whether you're a small business owner struggling to find clarity or an entrepreneur looking to scale with purpose, this conversation delivers actionable insights on building a marketing foundation that generates real ROI and creates lasting impact.Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner NeedsGuest: Jeremiah Aut, Founder & CEO of Involved Digital MarketingHost: Julie RigaAbout This EpisodeJulie explores the three essential ingredients for marketing success with Jeremiah Aut, a results-driven strategist who helps brands scale through smart strategy, storytelling, and execution. Jeremiah partners with a team of 20+ experts with over 23 years of combined experience who have built 1,800+ brands.Fun Fact: Jeremiah's favorite food is Pizza Hut Meat Lovers Personal Pan Pizza!The Three Ingredients for Marketing SuccessClarity: The Foundation for Long-Term Growth Most businesses start marketing with no clear objective or measurable outcome. Define your messaging and foundation before investing in social media, SEO, or website development. Get crystal clear on your business vision and purpose first.Strategic Implementation: Executing with Alignment Every marketing dollar should generate a return on investment. Build a strategy that aligns with where your business is now and where you want to go in one to two years and beyond. Your success is directly tied to your clients' success.Collaboration & Continuous Learning Trial and error is essential to business growth. Partner with experts who understand your pain points to transform your marketing from guesswork to strategic growth. Learn from failures and use those lessons to create success.The 2026 Marketing LandscapeAI streamlines marketing operations but isn't everything. Video content on LinkedIn and YouTube is essential for targeting decision-makers and building authority. Being on multiple platforms protects you when one goes down.Key Quotes"You can build a website, all the different ingredients that go into marketing, without that foundation and that clear messaging. There is no real result, no long-term growth.""Their success is our success. That should be the measurable outcome for any strategy that's implemented."Key TakeawaysGet crystal clear on your objectives before spending on marketing. Surround yourself with experts who understand your industry. Every marketing strategy should generate measurable returns. Position yourself as an authority through video content. Learn from failure and use those lessons to build success. Align your marketing with where you want to be in one to five years.Connect with Jeremiah AutWebsite: www.involveddigitalmarketing.com (with an I, not an E!)Social Media: Available on LinkedIn, Facebook, and all major platformsCompany: Involved Digital MarketingDaily News Network: Watch Jeremiah on Ask the Expert and other showsConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastLeadership Coaching: Transformative coaching for authentic leadership and purposeful growthSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#Leadership #Marketing #BusinessGrowth #PurposeDriven #DigitalMarketing

The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and LifeGuest: Gabriella Salvatore, Global Organizational Effectiveness & Leadership Strategy AdvisorHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this transformational episode, Julie welcomes Gabriella Salvatore to explore authentic leadership presence. Gabriella shares powerful insights on being truly present in our hyper-connected world. This conversation reveals the deeper practice of presence - how to listen, connect, and lead with clarity even when life pulls us in countless directions. Whether you're a busy professional or entrepreneur struggling with constant distractions, this episode offers practical wisdom for reclaiming your focus and making meaningful connections. The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and Life Gabriella Salvatore is a global organizational effectiveness and leadership strategy advisor who helps enterprises scale with clarity, humanity, and impact. She has led transformational change across biopharma, tech, and financial services, influencing tens of thousands of employees worldwide.Fun Fact: Gabriella's favorite food is matzo brei - Jewish French toast made with matzo dipped in egg and fried in butter. She shares this unique heritage connection with host Julie Riga, as they're both Italian and Jewish. Gabriella prefers her matzo brei wetted before dipping in egg, served with butter and sugar. What You'll Learn• The distinction between being present (focused attention) and having presence (quality of connection)• How digital distraction undermines leadership and relationships• Practical strategies: turning off notifications, time-blocking, and teaching stakeholders healthy boundaries• Why listening to yourself and others is the foundation of all presence Key Insights• Presence is a practice, not perfection - even experienced meditators struggle daily• Model boundaries to teach others that constant connectivity isn't necessary• Be present to your specific role in each moment and honor what it needs• Quality over speed - singular focus beats divided attention Memorable Quotes"Being present means reducing distraction and listening carefully - both to myself and to the other.""It's really okay to teach our stakeholders that you can wait.""It's more powerful to be present than distracted.""There is no perfection in presence." Who Should ListenLeaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals overwhelmed by modern life's constant pull. If you're struggling with digital distraction, managing multiple priorities, or feeling never fully present, this conversation offers validation and practical solutions. We're all recovering non-present people - the goal is continuous practice, not perfection. Your Next StepTurn off your notifications for one day. Notice what happens. Then experiment with 2-hour time blocks. Presence isn't about perfection - it's about returning to authentic connection with yourself and others. Connect with Gabriella Salvatore• LinkedIn: Gabriella D. Salvatore• Email: gabrielladsalvatore@gmail.comConnect with Julie Riga• Website: julieriga.com/lead• Coaching: Learn more about leadership coaching, personal transformation, and the ingredients for success in life and careerSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcastsShare this episode with leaders who need this reminder about the power of presence#StayOnCourse #LeadershipPresence #AuthenticLeadership #Mindfulness #PurposeDrivenLeadership

From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and ConnectionGuest: Junaid Ahmed, Home Studio Architect and Host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit StoriesHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this inspiring episode recorded live at PodFest 2026, host Julie Riga connects with Junaid Ahmed for their second annual PodFest conversation. Junaid, known as the Home Studio Architect and host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, shares powerful insights on podcast growth, audience building, and the evolution required to create a sustainable and purpose-driven platform.This conversation captures the energy of one of podcasting’s premier conferences while delivering grounded wisdom for creators focused on legacy, impact, and long-term growth.From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and ConnectionAbout This EpisodeRecorded live from PodFest 2026, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at why conferences are transformative for podcasters at every stage. Julie and Junaid reflect on year-over-year growth, share their biggest conference takeaways, and discuss the mindset shifts required to evolve without abandoning what already works.They explore the transition from using a podcast primarily as a networking tool to building it as a true audience-driven platform. Julie also shares her perspective on stepping into the role of front person for the Stay On Course brand and strengthening social media presence to amplify reach and impact.Guest BackgroundJunaid Ahmed, pronounced “like lemonade,” is the Home Studio Architect who helps podcasters and creators build professional home studios. With five years of PodFest attendance, Junaid is a recognized voice in the podcasting community.He hosts Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, where he highlights how people turn passion into profit while maintaining authenticity and purpose.Fun Fact: This is Junaid’s second consecutive year recording with Julie at the GObox studio at PodFest, creating an annual tradition of reflection and growth.Key Topics Discussed• Building genuine connections at PodFest through consistent presence and community • Compounding knowledge year over year rather than starting over • Learning from creators who evolve across platforms while staying aligned • Shifting focus from monetization to audience growth • Becoming the visible front person of your brand • The reality of empire building and the cost of support and collaboration • Investing time and money wisely and implementing what you learnMemorable Quotes“As podcasters, we are compounding knowledge every single year.” “I used to see my podcast as a networking tool. Now I am focused on growing my audience.” “You cannot build an empire by yourself.” “What you gain depends on how you implement what you learn.”Key TakeawaysCompound your growth instead of resetting each year Evolve your platform without abandoning what works Shift from networking to audience building Invest in community, support, and long-term growth Show up consistently and implement what you learnConnect with Junaid AhmedPodcast: Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit StoriesBusiness: Home Studio ArchitectServices: Studio setup consultation and podcasting supportSocial Media: Available across major platformsSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#PodcastGrowth #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDriven #AuthenticGrowth #StayOnCourse

Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy LeadershipGuest: Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, Founder of Golden Ray PublishingHost: Julie RigaOverviewIn this powerful episode, host Julie Riga sits down with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a veteran ghostwriter, publisher, and media strategist who transforms lived experience into legacy. Lisa shares her expertise in authentic leadership, personal brand protection, and the responsibility of stepping into the spotlight with integrity. From her work with Navy SEALs to her role as media director for TEDx Maisner Park, Lisa reveals the strategic frameworks that separate professionals from amateurs in publishing and personal branding.Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy LeadershipAbout This EpisodeJulie welcomes Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a purpose-driven publisher and legacy strategist who helps leaders turn their stories into protected, powerful assets. Lisa is the founder of Golden Ray Publishing and works extensively in the Special Forces and military legacy space. Her work is represented in national SEAL museums, and she serves as media director for TEDx Maisner Park.Guest BackgroundDr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray is a 20-year veteran ghostwriter and founder of Golden Ray Publishing. With 11 books releasing before June, Lisa specializes in military legacy work, having authored SEAL Team 1: Moy Bell and The Painted Frog (releasing August 2026).Fun Fact: Lisa is from Newport, Rhode Island, and her favorite food is a lobster roll, preferably enjoyed in the summer in her hometown.The Three Ingredients for Author SuccessIntegrity: Handle legacy stories with care and truth. Build trust with those whose stories you share.Truth: Tell stories from first-person perspective. Maintain accuracy and authenticity.Vulnerability: Allow authentic connection through honest storytelling. Create emotional resonance that outlives the spotlight.Memorable Quotes"Clarity beats charisma every time.""The red dot is not about performance, it's about responsibility.""Structure doesn't stifle creativity, it protects it.""Guard the work, and the work will guard you.""Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room."Key Insights for LeadersThe Publishing Truth: Books are the most successful piece of marketing when handled correctly. Your book should serve as your lead generator and establish you as an expert, but only if protected and positioned strategically.The Legacy Principle: You're three generations away from everyone forgetting your name. Written legacy from your first-person perspective ensures your story lives beyond the spotlight.Protection Before Promotion: Don't rush to market before your brand is ready. Protect your work through copyright and trademarks. Work with professionals to shape your message with integrity.Rapid Fire InsightsSuccess in one sentence: "Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room."Biggest mistake new authors make: "They rush to publish before they've protected their story or clarified the message."What separates pros from amateurs? "Professionals build systems, amateurs rely on talent and hope."Best advice ever received: "Guard the work, and the work will guard you."One non-negotiable in publishing: "Integrity, because once it's compromised, the book fails before it's even read."Connect with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa RayWebsite: www.goldenraybooks.com Free Zoom Consultation: Available via green button at bottom of websiteKey TakeawaysProtect Before You Promote: Structure and boundaries protect your creativity and messageClarity Over Charisma: Your message must be clean, honest, and grounded in experienceLegacy Is Intentional: Success is building stories that outlive the spotlightTrust Is Everything: In publishing and leadership, integrity is non-negotiableSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts.#Leadership #Legacy #Publishing #AuthenticGrowth #PurposeDriven

Leading Change When The Old You No Longer Works: Navigating High-Stakes Transformation with Heart-Centered LeadershipGuest: Lin Coughlin, Executive Coach & Strategic Advisor Host: Julie RigaOverviewIn this powerful episode, Julie sits down with Lin Coughlin, an executive coach who spent 20 years in C-suite roles leading transformative change. Lin shares her wisdom on navigating high-stakes inflection points, building constituencies for change, and why leading bold transformation requires both thick skin and deep curiosity. This conversation is a masterclass for anyone stepping into uncertainty, transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship, or questioning what comes next. If you're ready to reframe uncertainty as your greatest leadership invitation, this episode will show you how.Leading Change When The Old You No Longer Works: Navigating High-Stakes Transformation with Heart-Centered LeadershipAbout Lin CoughlinLin is an executive coach and strategic advisor with nearly 30 years of leadership experience. She spent 20 years in C-suite operating roles leading mergers and acquisitions, turnarounds, internal startups, and high-growth transformations. Lin is launching a new leadership development business focused on high-potential women leaders, offering group coaching and peer-to-peer learning.Fun Fact: Lin's favorite food is roasted peaches!Key TopicsThe Core Framework for Leading Change:Future State First: Start with possibility and achievability, then work backwardHuman-Centered Leadership: Lead from the heart first, then the headThe 80% Rule: 80% of change success comes from cultivating trusting relationshipsWhy 70% of Change Initiatives Fail:Lack of stakeholder buy-in at the outsetInsufficient attention to executionInability to pivot and course correct in uncertain environmentsMemorable Quotes"What got you here will not get you there.""80% of leading change comes from being able to cultivate trusting and trusted relationships.""The disruptors really are the people who are the future of the organization."Key InsightsLin's Leadership Philosophy:Surround yourself with people who can do circles around youInvest strategically in their developmentCoach and mentor them closelyThe Corporate-to-Entrepreneur Transition:Think in multiple revenue streams from day oneJulie quit "every Friday for two years"—the transition is genuinely difficultIt's liberating and makes you more productive in all areas of lifeThe Disruptor's Dilemma: Both Lin and Julie identify as corporate disruptors. Julie was called a "trailblazer" in March and lost her job in April—the harsh reality of being ahead of the curve. Disruptors need psychologically safe spaces to raise bold ideas and be heard.Essential Skills for Change LeadersInfluence and communication masteryBuilding constituencies excited about possibilitySelf-confidence to navigate politics and complexityResilience to fail forward and course correct quicklyConnect with Lin CoughlinWebsite: www.greatcircleassociates.comEmail: lin.coughlin@greatcircleassociates.comKey TakeawaysStart with possibility—paint a compelling future state firstLead with heart—relationships and trust drive 80% of successEmbrace disruptors—they're your organization's futureBuild multiple revenue streams for career resilienceCommunicate relentlessly—repeat your vision like building a brand🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts#Leadership #PurposeDriven #Transformation #CareerGrowth #Authenticity

Brain-Based Leadership: How Awareness, Curiosity, and Presence Transform the Way You LeadGuest: Tracy Benson, Top 1% LinkedIn Coach & Brain-Based Leadership ExpertHost: Julie RigaOverviewJoin Julie Riga as she sits down with Tracy Benson, a top 1% LinkedIn coach and brain-based leadership expert who has spent over three decades helping senior leaders create clarity, alignment, and real performance. Tracy blends neuroscience, leadership psychology, and practical business strategy to give leaders tools they can use immediately to transform teams, organizations, and results. Discover how awareness, curiosity, and presence can revolutionize the way you lead.Brain-Based Leadership: How Awareness, Curiosity, and Presence Transform the Way You LeadThe Three Ingredients for Leadership Success:1. Awareness Understanding what drives behavior beneath conscious awareness. Tracy reveals that 90% of brain function is unconscious yet rules how we show up. Learn to recognize reactive emotional states before they control you.2. Curiosity The two magic words that shift you out of negative emotional states: "I wonder." Tracy explains why you cannot be angry and curious at the same time, making curiosity the entrance ramp to co-creation and discovery.3. Presence & Perspective Discover foveal vs. peripheral view and how narrow focus blocks solutions. When you step back to include peripheral vision, all the ideas, solutions, and magic become available.Key Insights:The Power of "I Wonder": Two simple words that immediately shift you out of reactive states and open the palette of possibilitiesMeta Programs: Understanding the 50+ mental shortcuts that run how you show up and why time-focused and possibility-focused people clashProjection & Self-Discovery: How triggers reveal your unconscious programming and what you see in others exists in youMemorable Quotes:"This is the most powerful engine on the face of the planet, and we never got taught how to use it.""We cannot be angry and curious at the same time.""The palette of possibilities - in the moment you have all of these options, but we need to be in remembrance that those are available to us.""We can't see the label on the jar from inside the jar."Practical Leadership Tools:Wear a bead bracelet and snap it when you feel reactiveSay "I wonder" to shift your brain state instantlyPractice viewing challenges from multiple distancesVisit art museums to train your brain to shift perspectiveKey Takeaways:Your brain is powerful, but we were never taught how to use itCuriosity shifts everything - you cannot be angry and curious simultaneouslyPerspective creates possibilities - step back from problems to see solutionsBehaviors that trigger you reveal your own unconscious patternsSmall leadership adjustments create massive organizational impactConnect with Tracy Benson: LinkedIn: Tracy Benson Free Tool: DM Tracy on LinkedIn with "expand" to receive a complimentary foveal vs. peripheral view toolPerfect for leaders who want to understand how their brain works and use neuroscience to transform their leadership presence, decision-making, and relationships.🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts#Leadership #Mindset #Transformation #Purpose #Growth

The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business RealityHost: Julie Riga | Episode Type: Solo EpisodeOverviewThis isn't your typical year-in-review episode. Julie Riga gets brutally honest about what 2025 really looked like as a small business owner: the hustle that led nowhere, the rejection that stung, the corporate friends who disappeared, and the Friday nights spent wondering if she should just get a "real job" again. But here's the twist: she's not quitting. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Julie shares the unspoken truth about entrepreneurship, the non-negotiable realities of building a business, and why finding your purpose is worth every frustrating moment. If you're a business owner, leader, or anyone chasing a dream while wondering if you should give up, this episode is your permission to keep going.The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business RealityWhat You'll Learn:Julie pulls back the curtain on her 2025: months of hustling with no results, feeling stuck, battling frustration and depression, and watching corporate connections fade away. This is the messy middle nobody talks about. But it's also a powerful reminder that transformation doesn't come from comfort zones, and legacy isn't built by quitting when things get hard.Key Topics:The Three Non-Negotiables of Small Business Success:Community Over Isolation - Why doing it alone guarantees you'll quitSales as Your Lifeline - 80% of your first two years is selling (no sugarcoating)The Pivot-Fast Mindset - Learn what doesn't work and change it immediatelyThe Reality Check:Why 2025 felt harder than previous yearsGetting real about depression, frustration, and wanting to quit every FridayThe corporate friends who disappeared and the strangers who stepped upWhat keeps Julie going despite the brutal journeyMemorable Quotes:"2025 kicked my butt. If it didn't kick your butt, let me know in the chat.""If you're not willing to say that 80% of my time in the very beginning is gonna be devoted to selling, just go get a job.""Complete strangers will help me first than some of the people I worked very closely with.""I am a catalyst for you to reach your next level of success."Key Takeaways:Don't do it alone - Community is essentialEmbrace sales reality or get a jobPivot fast, learn fasterNever get comfortable with your pipelineTake care of yourself through the brutal journeyRemember why you startedAbout Julie Riga:Julie specializes in helping leaders and business owners dig deep to understand their true purpose, facilitate that purpose in their lives, and break through to their next level of success with clarity and confidence.Services: One-on-One Coaching | Leadership Programs | Training Programs | Brand BuildingReady for transformation? Schedule a call with Julie and start facilitating your purpose.🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts 💡 Share with entrepreneurs who need to hear: "Don't give up"#StayOnCoursePodcast #PurposeDrivenLeadership #SmallBusinessReality #EntrepreneurMindset #LeadershipGrowth