It Matters Podcast

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez delves into the complexities and significance of leadership. He emphasizes that leadership is inherently challenging due to the need to make difficult decisions, navigate hard seasons, and manage the complexities of human behavior and emotions. Walter provides practical advice on how to lead effectively despite these challenges, such as avoiding personalizing reactions, leading from clarity, and seeking support. He encourages leaders to embrace the discomfort and growth that come with their roles, reminding them that the difficulties they face are a testament to the importance and impact of their leadership. The episode encourages leaders to show up, make meaningful decisions, and remember the purpose behind their efforts.   00:00 Welcome to the It Matters Podcast   00:51 The Challenges of Leadership   02:46 Understanding the Complexity of Leadership   04:37 Navigating Hard Decisions   12:57 The Importance of Growth in Leadership   18:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez challenges listeners to reframe how they perceive failure and embrace their potential. He emphasizes viewing failure as feedback rather than a personal flaw and encourages a mindset shift from 'Why not?' to 'Why not me?'. Walter discusses the importance of self-talk, surrounding oneself with positive influences, and taking actionable steps towards personal and professional goals. Listeners are urged to acknowledge their strengths, practice gratitude, and take brave steps to break through barriers, ultimately fostering growth and leadership.   00:00 Introduction: Embracing Failure as Feedback   00:23 Welcome to the It Matters Podcast   00:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Negative Voices   02:41 The Power of 'Why Not Me?'   03:57 Reframing Failure and Embracing Potential   06:49 Practical Steps for Positive Self-Talk   09:53 Taking Action and Moving Forward   14:02 Creating a Supportive Environment   19:09 Conclusion: Believe in Yourself and Lead Well

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez kicks off the first episode of 2026 by encouraging listeners to embrace growth and change their habits to truly transform their lives. Reflecting on the past two years of podcasting, Walter emphasizes the importance of not slipping into 'default mode' but instead intentionally planning and creating new rhythms. He reminds listeners that they have the power to choose growth over decay. As the new year begins, Walter urges everyone to set meaningful goals, engage actively in their lives, and avoid complacency to achieve their dreams and maximize their potential.   00:00 Welcome and Introduction   00:29 Reflecting on the Past Year   01:14 The Importance of Growth and Change   03:10 Avoiding the Default Mode   05:57 Taking Action and Setting Goals   09:04 Encouragement and Final Thoughts   14:10 Conclusion and What's Next

On this episode of the It Matters podcast we are ending with a blast. I bring you a mix all into one episode. I want to highlight all my guests who made this years podcasts special. These conversations brought inspiration, wisdom, and life changing truths. Allow these reflections to help you spring forward into the New Year with confidence!

In this mash up episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez highlights some of the most impactful solo episodes of 2025! In this mix of episodes Walter explores the mindset required for effective leadership and personal growth. He discusses the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, challenging negative self-talk, and prioritizing rest to avoid burnout. He emphasizes the power of small, consistent habits and the need for self-awareness and presence. Walter encourages listeners to reflect on their routines, adopt healthy habits, and strive for alignment between values and actions. The mix of conversation highlights that sustainable leadership begins with self-care, intentional choices, and a commitment to ongoing personal development. Check this episode out to not only end your year well, but to start your New Year winning!

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter encourages listeners to reflect on where they’re investing their best energy, time, and focus as the year ends. Emphasizing that busyness doesn’t equal meaningful productivity, he urges a personal audit of priorities and challenges listeners to realign their efforts with what truly matters. Practical steps are offered to help redirect energy from draining distractions to core values and important relationships, inspiring intentional living and purposeful change before the new year begins.

In this episode of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Drawing from his own experiences as a father of two children with a rare liver disease, Walter emphasizes how authentic storytelling fosters empathy, connection, and hope. He encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and share both their struggles and victories, reminding them that every story has the potential to inspire and help others. The episode motivates listeners to lead with authenticity, break down barriers, and recognize the profound impact their stories can have on themselves and their communities.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores intentional leadership and the importance of "living in tension." The episode highlights how effective leaders honor their values, embrace discomfort, and navigate tensions like discipline versus desire, boundaries versus people-pleasing, and focus versus distraction. Listeners are encouraged to set clear intentions, lean into discomfort, and reflect on their growth. The episode offers practical advice for developing a purposeful mindset, elevating leadership skills, and using tension as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

In episode 100 of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez reflects on his journey to this milestone and shares key lessons about leadership and personal well-being. He emphasizes that leading well starts with living well—being healthy in mind and body, living authentically in alignment with one’s values, and embracing humanity through relationships and self-compassion. Walter encourages listeners to assess their own well-being and make intentional changes, highlighting that flourishing as a leader begins with caring for oneself. The episode is a thoughtful pause to inspire growth and intentional leadership.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez discusses the crucial habit of writing things down. Explaining the concept he refers to as 'Ink It', Walter highlights the neurological benefits of putting pen to paper, such as activating the reticular activating system (RAS), improving memory, and bridging the left and right hemispheres of the brain. He provides examples from successful leaders and companies to underscore the transformative power of writing. Walter encourages listeners to make writing a part of their daily routines, emphasizing how it can bring clarity, focus, and reduce anxiety. Ultimately, he aims to inspire leaders to harness this simple yet powerful practice to enhance their effectiveness and lead with intention.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores how to achieve lasting personal and leadership transformation from live events like workshops and retreats. He introduces the "CRACK" acronym—Commit, Reflect, Act, Change, Keep Going—as a practical framework to help listeners turn event inspiration into real, sustainable change. Walter emphasizes that true transformation happens when you bring lessons home, apply them consistently, and persist through challenges, ultimately inspiring growth in yourself and those around you.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the metaphor "leaders take the stairs" to highlight the importance of discipline, hard work, and humility in leadership. He emphasizes that true leaders avoid shortcuts, lead by example, support their teams, and foster a positive environment. The episode encourages leaders to be present, listen, rest, and continuously grow, inspiring transformation in themselves and others. The overall message is to lead with intention, humility, and vision, creating lasting impact and a culture where everyone thrives.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores the vital role of communication in effective leadership. Emphasizing the practice of “watching game film,” he encourages leaders to review and analyze their own speaking performances to identify strengths and areas for growth. Listeners are urged to approach self-assessment with humility, celebrate progress, and make intentional improvements. The episode highlights the importance of preparation, honest self-reflection, and continuous learning as essential habits for leaders seeking to enhance their communication skills and overall leadership impact.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez interviews Sarah Van Dusen of High Level Marketing. Sarah shares her journey from graffiti art to marketing expertise, offering practical advice for business leaders on building authentic brands, leveraging Google Business Profile, and overcoming self-doubt. She emphasizes consistency, clear calls to action, and the power of storytelling. The discussion covers current marketing trends, the importance of community engagement, and leading with kindness. Sarah’s insights empower entrepreneurs to embrace authenticity, stay adaptable, and seek support, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to grow their business. Sarah Van Dusen, a Google-certified SEO expert, social media strategist, and marketing mentor with over 20 years of experience helping businesses across Western Canada cut through the noise and get noticed. She's been consulted by the Canadian Senate on digital policy, and has taught at NAIT, Grant MacEwan, and the U of A—empowering business owners with the secrets to SEO, website optimization, and social media success. Trusted by Edmonton's top entrepreneurs, Sarah understands the hustle, the challenges, and the importance of making every marketing dollar count. Connect with Sarah sarah@highlevelyeg.ca IG: @highlevelyeg Facebook: High Level Marketing Inc. Connect with Walter www.theleaderco.ca IG: @theleaderco.inc Facebook: The Leader Co.

In this episode of the It Matters podcast, Walter Perez welcomes a special guest, his son Armando Perez. They discuss the importance of leadership, how to become a leader, and what leadership means. Armando shares his aspirations for the future and discusses his experience playing sports and managing a rare liver disease. Walter provides valuable insights on leadership, including the importance of practicing, supporting teammates, and being honest about one's challenges. This conversation offers a heartfelt and educational look at developing leadership skills from a young age.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez welcomes Tara Kerns. Tara shares her journey from aspiring engineer to rare disease advocate after her sons were diagnosed with Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC). She discusses the challenges of navigating a rare diagnosis, building a supportive community, and balancing leadership with self-care. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, vulnerability, and connection in advocacy, offering inspiration and practical advice for families facing rare diseases and personal hardships. Tara Kearns is a licensed social worker, educator, advocate, and most importantly, a mother. Working with children and families in the mental health field for most of her professional career, she entered the world of medical advocacy after her oldest son received a diagnosis of MRD3 deficiency, also known as PFIC 3. In 2016, she began working with two other mothers of children with multiple variations of PFIC to maintain the original website pfic.org, a grassroots online webpage created to share (very little at the time) information online. By 2018, The PFIC Advocacy and Resource Network, Inc. (The PFIC Network), a 501(c)3 non-for-profit organization was born. Since then, Tara has remained connected with the organization, not only as a Co-Founder, but has also served terms as Board Secretary, and as Vice-President of the Board of Directors. Currently, Tara serves as a Program Consultant with the PFIC Network, working to further organizational priorities and support its mission.   Connect with Tara tara@pfic.org IG: @mommyofthreetots Connect with Walter www.theleaderco.ca IG: @theleaderco.inc Facebook: The Leader Co.

In this solo episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores leadership, mindset, and personal growth as the year nears its end. He encourages listeners to reflect on their progress, let go of what doesn’t truly matter, and focus on positive habits and purposeful action. Walter stresses the importance of proactive reflection and making intentional choices to finish the year strong and start the next one with momentum. He motivates listeners to lead with clarity and resilience, and hints at a special guest joining the next episode.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the importance of embracing change for personal growth and effective leadership. He introduces the acronym "CHANGE"—Choose it, Have a vision, Ask for help, Need to do the work, Grow as you go, and Evaluate along the way—to guide listeners through the process. Walter emphasizes that while change can be uncomfortable, it is essential for progress. He encourages leaders to be intentional, adaptable, and reflective, offering practical steps and motivation for anyone facing change in their life or leadership journey.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores how a constant sense of urgency can undermine effective leadership. Speaking directly to leaders, the episode highlights the negative impacts of urgency—such as poor decision-making, burnout, and reduced team morale—and encourages a shift toward proactive, well-prepared leadership. By prioritizing clear communication, thoughtful planning, and team collaboration, leaders can create a healthier work environment, foster sustainable progress, and achieve better outcomes for their organizations. The episode offers practical advice for breaking the cycle of urgency and building lasting success.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter explores the concept of "Counterfeit Leadership," highlighting six common misconceptions people often mistake for true leadership. He explains that being first, holding a title, managing systems, owning a business, being entrepreneurial, or simply possessing knowledge do not automatically make someone a leader. True leadership, Walter emphasizes, is about influence, growth, and positively impacting others. He encourages listeners to reflect on their own leadership practices, avoid these counterfeits, and commit to developing genuine leadership skills that make a real difference.