Claim OwnershipLeadership & Motivation Unleashed: Practical Leadership for Modern Workplaces
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© Copyright 2025 Patrick Law and Rachel Book
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This is what happens when a Gulf War veteran turned COO and payments innovator meets a Harvard-educated HR leader with a career shaping talent strategies at Fortune 500 companies—together, they bring unparalleled insights into leadership, blending operational precision with people-first transformation.
Are you looking to grow your leadership skills, inspire your team, and thrive in today’s dynamic workplace?
Leadership & Motivation Unleashed: Practical Leadership for Modern Workplaces* is your go-to podcast for actionable insights on leadership motivation, team dynamics, workplace culture, and career growth—the topics that matter most to leaders navigating modern work challenges.
In every episode, we explore practical leadership strategies designed to help you improve team dynamics, foster a positive workplace culture, and drive sustainable career growth. Whether you’re leading a small team, managing large-scale organizational changes, or growing your own career, this podcast delivers real-world advice to equip you with tools and techniques to succeed.
What You Can Expect:
💡 Leadership Motivation: Learn how to inspire yourself and your team with proven strategies for maintaining focus, engagement, and success.
🤝 Team Dynamics: Discover how to build cohesive, high-performing teams, resolve conflicts, and improve collaboration in diverse workplaces.
🏢 Workplace Culture: Explore ways to create a healthy and inclusive workplace culture that drives human performance and organizational success.
📈 Career Growth: Gain insights on developing your leadership skills, advancing your career, and navigating career challenges in a changing professional landscape.
We know the demands of modern workplaces are constantly evolving. Topics like adapting to AI-driven change, managing generational diversity, and meeting ambiguous expectations are at the forefront of every leader’s mind. That’s why Leadership & Motivation Unleashed brings you practical solutions for real-world problems.
Each episode is packed with:
🎙️ Expert advice from leaders and practitioners who understand what works in today’s workplaces.
🧩 Tips to optimize team dynamics and inspire trust, accountability, and collaboration.
🌱 Steps to cultivate a thriving workplace culture that retains talent and improves performance.
🚀 Strategies to achieve your own career growth and empower your team members to do the same.
We believe that effective leadership motivation is not just about achieving goals; it’s about creating an environment where teams succeed and individuals grow. By combining lessons on team dynamics, organizational health, and actionable career advice, this podcast will help you become the leader your workplace needs.
Whether you’re an executive leader, a manager, or a professional looking to level up, you’ll leave each episode with clear, practical takeaways to:
✨ Enhance your leadership motivation and inspire your team.
🔗 Strengthen team dynamics and improve collaboration.
🏆 Build a resilient, people-centered workplace culture.
📊 Drive your own career growth while helping others succeed.
🎧 Tune in weekly to Leadership & Motivation Unleashed: Practical Leadership for Modern Workplaces for tools, stories, and advice that empower you to lead with clarity, impact, and confidence.
Start listening today and transform the way you approach leadership, teamwork, and career development.
*Previously known as the Book of Law Podcast, where hosts Patrick Law and Rachel Book take you on a journey through the realms of leadership and business.
Are you looking to grow your leadership skills, inspire your team, and thrive in today’s dynamic workplace?
Leadership & Motivation Unleashed: Practical Leadership for Modern Workplaces* is your go-to podcast for actionable insights on leadership motivation, team dynamics, workplace culture, and career growth—the topics that matter most to leaders navigating modern work challenges.
In every episode, we explore practical leadership strategies designed to help you improve team dynamics, foster a positive workplace culture, and drive sustainable career growth. Whether you’re leading a small team, managing large-scale organizational changes, or growing your own career, this podcast delivers real-world advice to equip you with tools and techniques to succeed.
What You Can Expect:
💡 Leadership Motivation: Learn how to inspire yourself and your team with proven strategies for maintaining focus, engagement, and success.
🤝 Team Dynamics: Discover how to build cohesive, high-performing teams, resolve conflicts, and improve collaboration in diverse workplaces.
🏢 Workplace Culture: Explore ways to create a healthy and inclusive workplace culture that drives human performance and organizational success.
📈 Career Growth: Gain insights on developing your leadership skills, advancing your career, and navigating career challenges in a changing professional landscape.
We know the demands of modern workplaces are constantly evolving. Topics like adapting to AI-driven change, managing generational diversity, and meeting ambiguous expectations are at the forefront of every leader’s mind. That’s why Leadership & Motivation Unleashed brings you practical solutions for real-world problems.
Each episode is packed with:
🎙️ Expert advice from leaders and practitioners who understand what works in today’s workplaces.
🧩 Tips to optimize team dynamics and inspire trust, accountability, and collaboration.
🌱 Steps to cultivate a thriving workplace culture that retains talent and improves performance.
🚀 Strategies to achieve your own career growth and empower your team members to do the same.
We believe that effective leadership motivation is not just about achieving goals; it’s about creating an environment where teams succeed and individuals grow. By combining lessons on team dynamics, organizational health, and actionable career advice, this podcast will help you become the leader your workplace needs.
Whether you’re an executive leader, a manager, or a professional looking to level up, you’ll leave each episode with clear, practical takeaways to:
✨ Enhance your leadership motivation and inspire your team.
🔗 Strengthen team dynamics and improve collaboration.
🏆 Build a resilient, people-centered workplace culture.
📊 Drive your own career growth while helping others succeed.
🎧 Tune in weekly to Leadership & Motivation Unleashed: Practical Leadership for Modern Workplaces for tools, stories, and advice that empower you to lead with clarity, impact, and confidence.
Start listening today and transform the way you approach leadership, teamwork, and career development.
*Previously known as the Book of Law Podcast, where hosts Patrick Law and Rachel Book take you on a journey through the realms of leadership and business.
36 Episodes
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Ambiguity is unavoidable in modern workplaces, but great leaders know how to turn uncertainty into opportunity. In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we welcome Mike Ott, CEO of MOBĒ, former President of Wealth Management at U.S. Bank, and retired U.S. Air Force officer. With decades of leadership experience across the military and corporate America, Mike shares how he navigates chaos, builds trust in high-stakes environments, and creates cultures where integrity comes first.Whether you’re managing through economic volatility, transitioning careers, or leading teams through organizational change, this conversation will help you build resilience and confidence in the face of uncertainty.▶️ Leading Through Ambiguity & Building Trust in Uncertainty with Mike Ott:[03:18] Mike’s career journey and influence[10:57] How to navigate ambiguity and thrive in chaos[16:46] Why transparency and consistency define trust in leadership[21:33] Rachel’s White House experience on veteran employment and ambiguity[24:28] Overcoming jargon and translation gaps in workplaces[30:47] Navigating career transitions and mentoring future leaders[41:41] Transforming culture at MOBĒ[44:03] Why calling out change openly is essential for trustResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Leading Through Ambiguity & Building Trust in Uncertainty with Mike Ott:“If your team sees somebody who is erratic, dysfunctional, angry, and just unpredictable when times are tough versus when times are good, they don't know what to expect and they're always going to feel like they were snuck up on.” - Mike Ott“Find the right environment where you think your flow is going to move things so that you can drive results that are aligned with your character and the organization.” - Mike OttConnect with Mike Ott:📱 Follow Mike Ott on LinkedIn.💻 Check out Mike Ott’s website.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In today’s episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we welcome Dean Indot - a seasoned commercial banker, entrepreneur, and the co-creator of the viral Alexis and Dean financial literacy channel, with over 2.2 million followers. Dean’s journey is anything but linear: from Wall Street to tech startups, through the turbulence of the dot-com crash and the 2008 financial crisis, to now leading teams at Western Alliance Bank, he’s lived through - and led through - some of the toughest challenges business professionals face. Dean’s career spans decades in finance, tech, and leadership, giving him a rare perspective on what it takes to stay relevant, resilient, and trusted in fast-changing environments. ▶️ From Banker to Influencer: Career Growth, Leadership & Financial Literacy with Dean Indot:[03:13] Dean’s unconventional career path: Merrill Lynch, startups, and finding his way into commercial banking[07:05] Surviving the dot-com bubble and the 2008 financial crisis[10:39] The viral rise of Alexis & Dean: explaining banking crises to millions[17:20] Interest rates, housing, and M&A activity - Dean’s no-nonsense take[25:28] Making financial literacy engaging and approachable[28:28] Managing haters and handling authenticity[35:03] Leadership lessons: shifting from rainmaker to team leader[40:39] Lightning round: best leader and proudest achievementResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from From Banker to Influencer: Career Growth, Leadership & Financial Literacy with Dean Indot:“I seek out ways to get things done rather than just go up my reporting chain and complain.” - Dean Indot“Rather than focusing on what your experience was, let's find an objective way to fix this problem and let's move on.” - Dean IndotConnect with Dean Indot:📱 Follow Dean Indot on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Alexis and Dean on TikTok and Instagram.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
What happens when you leave behind the tight-knit, mission-focused world of military service and step into the uncharted territory of corporate America? In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we sit down with special guest Berkley Brown, an Army veteran turned contracts administrator at Northrop Grumman, to explore the transition from military leadership to corporate America.Berkley shares her candid story of leaving the Army after four years of service, confronting the loss of camaraderie, and finding her footing in the high-stakes world of defense contracting. With refreshing honesty, she opens up about managing stress and creating balance in demanding environments.▶️ Transitioning from Military Leadership to Corporate America with Berkley Brown:[04:41] Berkley’s journey from college to the military[06:37] Leaving the “cocoon” of military service for a civilian career path[11:06] The struggles of transitioning out of military service[18:01] The difference between military leadership and civilian leadership[21:14] Managing stress in mission-critical environments[27:10] Understanding expectations in corporate roles[32:30] Work-life balance and setting boundaries[44:27] Lightning Round: leadership moments in the Army and in corporate lifeResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Transitioning from Military Leadership to Corporate Success with Berkley Brown:“ Trust but verify. You can trust people to have a plan, but you should verify it.” - Berkley Brown“On the civilian side, [...] work is important, but it's not everyone's primary focus. They have families that they take care of. There's a life outside of work.” - Berkley BrownConnect with Berkley Brown:📱 Follow Berkley Brown on LinkedIn.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this special guest episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we welcome an incredible guest, Donna Cranston—the Founder and Executive Director of Defenders of Freedom, a nonprofit that's saving veterans' lives and assisting them in their transition to civilian life. Donna shares with us her inspiring journey of leadership and giving. We learn valuable leadership lessons that go beyond numbers and spreadsheets—and focus on true impact. You'll hear about the challenges and the solutions Donna found along the way to do good and enable others to do good themselves. Tune in for a moving episode about work that truly matters and leading with a courageous heart.▶️ Saving Veterans' Lives by Leading with a Courageous Heart with Donna Cranston:[03:15] Donna's journey of helping Veterans in any way she could[16:01] How Donna ended up founding the Defenders of Freedom[21:37] Donna's experience learning how to run a nonprofit[23:51] 2 things that will allow you to handle any crisis or cause [28:06] The challenge of getting the right people on the board[33:00] The decision to transition into treating Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)[45:10] A lesson in courageousness and curiosity[48:06] Focusing on helping each individual instead of on the numbers[52:38] Leading from the front with a courageous heartResources:Learn more about the cause and help save veterans' lives today. Go to defendersoffreedom.us Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Saving Veterans' Lives by Leading with a Courageous Heart with Donna Cranston:“ I realized that most people support our troops, they just didn't know how to do it. So, I started Defenders of Freedom really as an avenue to connect the community to our troops and let everyone have a piece in being able to say thank you to our troops.” - Donna Cranston"I always say all the mistakes I made, it didn't matter because it was all coming from my heart of gratitude for what they were doing for our country." - Dona CranstonConnect with Donna Cranston:📱 Follow Donna Cranston on LinkedIn.💻 Check out Donna Cranston's website.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this guest episode, we welcome Amy Philbrook, Executive Vice President and Head of Service at LPL Financial. From navigating layoffs to leveraging AI, we explore practical strategies to future-proof our relevance in the workplace, empower leaders and employees, and lead through uncertainty, with curiosity, courage, and kindness.Throughout her career, Amy has spent time building businesses, running revenue, service, and operations organizations, and also in HR. What Amy brings to the table reflects the point of view of employees, middle management, and leaders from across the organization.▶️ Future-Proof Your Relevance in Today's Fast-Changing Workplace with Amy Philbrook:[03:16] Meet the velvet hammer, Amy Philbrook[07:28] A different way to think about layoffs[11:08] Navigating capacity pinch points[13:50] How leaders can prepare their workforce for the future[19:44] How AI will transform the role of middle management[25:51] The power of curiosity in surviving a changing workplace[29:27] A simple hack to future-proof your relevance[36:37] A broader view of HR and its role in the business[40:40] Lightning Round: Favorite leader, book recommendations, proudest accomplishmentResources:Check out Sahil Bloom's newsletter, the Curiosity Chronicle.Watch our favorite Ted Lasso scene here.The two books every leader should read: Principles by Ray Dalio and The Creative Act by Rick Rubin.Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Future-Proof Your Relevance in Today's Fast-Changing Workplace with Amy Philbrook:“ The role of a leader is the role of a learner, I think today at every level, in every company.” - Amy Philbrook“ You will not survive if you are intellectually lazy. If the value you create can be replicated by a machine learning model in an app, then you are no longer relevant or of value. But if you can use the capacity that model frees up to be insanely curious, that's where you're gonna uncover hidden value.” - Amy PhilbrookConnect with Amy Philbrook:📱 Follow Amy Philbrook on LinkedIn.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this special guest episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we sit down with former college football star and sales leader turned entrepreneur, Adam Gunn. From overcoming a career-ending injury to building a career at Stryker and launching a company in the fast-evolving NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) space, Adam’s story is one of grit, purpose, and people-centered leadership.Adam shares how athletes bring unique and transferable strengths to the business world, and how leaders can tap into these talents to build stronger, more diverse teams. Whether you're a hiring manager, former athlete, or just curious about how leadership shows up across industries, this episode is packed with insight.▶️ From the Football Field to the Boardroom: Hiring Diverse Talent from Untapped Pipelines with Adam Gunn:[03:26] Meet Adam Gunn: former athlete, sales leader, and NIL entrepreneur[06:51] What is NIL and how is it changing college athletics?[11:16] Transferable skills from sales to entrepreneurship[13:02] The complexity of NIL[15:21] Why athletes make exceptional team members[23:33] The transfer portal and its implications for athlete development[27:58] Hiring diverse talent from untapped pipelines[30:10] Inside Stryker’s values and leadership culture[33:53] How Adam broke into medical sales as a student-athlete[36:24] Lightning Round: Best leader, proudest achievement, biggest lessonResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from From the Football Field to the Boardroom: Hiring Diverse Talent from Untapped Pipelines with Adam Gunn:“If it's solely on one individual or a group of people that all think, look, and feel the same way, you're going to be very single-sided and limited in terms of your ideas, your innovation, and all the thoughts, decisions, and solutions that are driven from your company.” - Adam Gunn“ You can't be average as an athlete. If you're average, you're going to sit the bench. You have to be extraordinary, and that translates perfectly into the work world, where they push themselves to learn more, to be better, and to take in everything they possibly can to be the best version of themselves.” - Adam GunnConnect with Adam Gunn:📱 Follow Adam Gunn on LinkedIn.💻 Check out Adam Gunn’s website.📧 Send Adam Gunn an email.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this special guest episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’re joined by Steve Davis, co-founder of My Next Stage, a platform built to help experienced professionals thrive in a changing workforce.Together, we unpack a critical and under-discussed issue: ageism in the workplace - its often unintentional nature, how it's built into systems, and what we can all do about it.Steve shares wisdom from his career in recruiting and talent strategy at major firms, including Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg, and Broadridge, and reflects on the persistent misconceptions around older workers’ adaptability, cost, and leadership potential.▶️ Ageism in Hiring & the Future of Experienced Workers:[03:26] Meet strategic talent acquisition leader Steve Davis[06:16] The systemic challenges experienced professionals face[09:31] Contributing factors to unintentional age bias[13:58] Resume tactics and interview pitfalls for older job seekers[17:11] The workforce is aging fast – what the numbers tell us[20:51] Tactics older professionals can use to stay competitive[25:11] Rethinking employment models[29:39] How assumptions about runway and retirement limit hiring[33:18] Lightning Round: Favorite leader, biggest mistake, top achievement[40:39] Takeaways for both job seekers and business leadersResources:E26: Career Ladder vs. Career Lattice: The Value of Experiential LearningWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Ageism in Hiring & the Future of Experienced Workers with Steve Davis:“ A lot of people are asking the same question: how do I make my experience matter in a world that seems to value youth and learning agility?” - Steve Davis“ Ageism is everywhere. Around 90% of workers over 40 say that they've experienced ageism in the workplace.” - Steve DavisConnect with Steve Davis:📱 Follow Steve Davis on LinkedIn.💻 Check out Steve Davis’s website.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’re joined by Olivia Cream - former Coast Guard, corporate HR executive, and now a thriving entrepreneur. Olivia shares hard-earned lessons from her time in uniform, her leadership journey through corporate America, and her bold pivot to coaching and fractional HR consulting.This episode dives deep into the power of values-driven leadership, the unspoken dynamics of female rivalry in leadership, and what it really means to be an HR co-pilot instead of an order taker. Olivia gets real about ethical dilemmas, calling out wrongdoing, and why leadership is never about you.If you’re navigating corporate politics, looking to grow your leadership identity, or wondering what good HR support should actually look like, this one’s for you.▶️ Leading with Integrity: Courage, Culture & the Real Role of HR with Olivia Cream:[01:56] Meet Olivia Cream: Engineer, Coast Guard vet, corporate exec turned entrepreneur[05:24] Leadership lessons from the Coast Guard[08:35] How to respond to ethical challenges as a leader[14:11] Good vs. bad leadership - what you can learn from both[18:04] The complicated truth about female leaders in power[21:39] Healing from toxic leadership & building resilience[27:34] Olivia’s career pivot into HR[31:56] What real HR partnership looks like: metrics, strategy, and people[35:34] Lightning Round: controversial opinions, favorite leaders, must-read booksResources:My Sister’s ShouldersE12: Tips for HR Professionals and Business Leaders to Foster Better CollaborationExtreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif BabinWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Leading with Integrity: Courage, Culture & the Real Role of HR with Olivia Cream:“ There are HR leaders that are now becoming CEOs of businesses. That is how deep you have to understand your business to be an effective HR leader.” - Olivia Cream“ You have to figure out what kind of leader you want to be. And you have to stand by those principles.” - Olivia CreamConnect with Olivia:📱 Follow Olivia Cream on LinkedIn.💻 Check out Olivia Cream’s website.Connect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we open up about pivotal mistakes that nearly derailed our careers and the transformative lessons we learned in the process. From unchecked ego to over-compartmentalizing your identity at work, we explore how ambition, pride, and even loyalty can sometimes backfire without the right mindset.If you've ever wondered what blind spots may be holding you back or how to defend your values and still build a successful career, this episode is a must-listen.▶️ Top Career Mistakes Holding You Back in the Workplace:[01:51] Staying open to feedback[11:26] The consequences of ignoring workplace relationships[14:53] Over-compartmentalizing at work[18:41] Pride and ego in the workplace[22:45] Owning your (and others') mistakes[26:13] Taking a stand to be recognized versus because it means somethingResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Top Career Mistakes Holding You Back in the Workplace:“Speak up to defend your values and the values of the company when you see decisions being made or people being treated in ways that are in conflict with that. ” - Rachel Book“Don't allow yourself to be derailed because you think you're smarter than everybody around you. ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Careers are often shaped by luck, opportunity, and a willingness to say yes, not just upward promotion. In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’re diving into the concept of the career lattice versus the traditional career ladder. We explore the different career paths individuals can take, how to leverage diverse experiences, and the importance of saying yes to new opportunities. You’ll learn how to navigate your career with both strategic planning and openness to unexpected opportunities.If you're navigating your next career move, this episode is a must-listen.▶️ Career Ladder vs. Career Lattice: The Value of Experiential Learning:[01:51] Career lattice vs. a career ladder[02:37] The role of luck and opportunity in career development[05:25] What you gain from “lateral” experience[08:59] Embracing projects even if they feel risky or outside your lane[15:01] Three types of career planning personalities[18:04] The “stacked career” and hybrid experience roles[23:46] The future of work: Why AI makes cross-functional insight more valuable[25:16] Owning your risks, failures, and your storyResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Career Ladder vs. Career Lattice: The Value of Experiential Learning:“ If you don't take advantage of some of these opportunities, you may not unlock those relationships, those opportunities to be visible, or those experiences to acquire new skills. ” - Rachel Book“ The more things you have to draw from to help you be successful from an experience perspective, the better off you'll be.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Do you really need a college degree to succeed? Is that piece of paper the ultimate key to leadership roles, corporate credibility, and career advancement? Not necessarily.In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we discuss the value of a college education versus real-world experience. We share personal stories and actionable insights for individuals charting their own career paths and for hiring managers looking to broaden their talent pool.▶️ College Degree Optional – Rethinking Success and Hiring in Modern Workplaces:[02:46] Patrick’s non-traditional education journey as someone who “didn’t care” about education initially [08:32] Why traditional degrees aren't the only path to professional success[15:12] Rachel’s non-traditional bachelor's degree[17:39] The rise of skills-based hiring and what it means for job seekers and employers[21:32] The dangers of credential bias in hiring[29:19] The lack of apprenticeship opportunities in the United States[32:54] Practical advice for both employers and candidates on widening talent pipelines and finding purposeResources:Take a look at the unique ways to get a degree mentioned in this episode:Purdue GlobalNewlane UniversityCLEP (College-Level Examination Program) examsWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from College Degree Optional – Rethinking Success and Hiring in Modern Workplaces:“People accumulate experiences and skills and talents throughout so many different ways. ” - Rachel Book“ Don't think that degree is going to get you anything. Your heart gets you everything. ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Today’s episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed is a conversation on the impact of mergers and acquisitions on workplace culture. There has been a lot of research on this topic over many years, and one Harvard Business Review article even said that most mergers and acquisitions fail because the people aspect is simply not considered enough.We’re discussing the significance of the people aspect in mergers and acquisitions, and providing actionable advice for leaders navigating these challenging transitions.▶️ The Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on Workplace Culture:[02:13] The people aspect of mergers and acquisitions[07:50] Understanding the value of your employees[10:42] Integrating cultures and the impact on clients[15:05] Leadership through mergers and acquisitions[19:58] Creating calm during unsteady times[24:41] Preparing a people plan[25:55] Informing employees why an acquisition is taking place[27:33] Creating cohesion and collaboration among new teamsResources:Create cohesion and collaboration among teams with Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from The Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on Workplace Culture:“ If you're putting together project teams, purposely put a mix of people from the different companies so that they all learn from each other and appreciate each other's value.” - Rachel Book“ It's up to the individual leader to add human value into the equation.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
It takes every type of person to make a team, department, or company successful. So, in this episode of the Leadership & Motivation Unleashed Podcast, we’re tackling the intricate dynamics of managing different types of employees within the workplace - from top performers to average workers.We discuss the value of different types of performers, the impact of favoritism and recognition in the workplace, and strategies for motivating average performers to enhance overall team productivity. We also address the importance of understanding individual motivations and creating an inclusive environment where everyone knows where they stand.▶️ Understanding Workplace Dynamics: Top Performers Vs. Average Workers:[01:57] The role of different types of employees[05:45] Not everyone aims to be a top performer[06:49] Assessing employee value[08:02] Different standards and treatment for top employees[11:57] Pushing people to be a top performer when they’re not ready[17:50] Performance-based recognition strategies [24:20] Work is a privilege and a responsibilityResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Understanding Workforce Dynamics: Star Performers Versus Average Workers:“Not every job needs a star player, and for sure not every team needs a cast of all star performers. ” - Rachel Book“Leadership is putting teams of people together that balance each other out, no matter what the noise is from the outside.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
This episode’s topic is a tough one. We're talking about how we, as leaders, can support our teams when the going gets tough. It could be when somebody is going through a hard time personally, or when things are really tough at the company. Perhaps somebody made a big mistake, or it could be that your company is having financial challenges. What is our role as leaders? How do we be there for our teams on a personal and professional level? How do we serve as a stabilizing force, maintaining focus on what matters most, while still being human and caring for people as they go through a hard time? Join us as we explore these questions in this episode.▶️ Confidential Conversations: How Leaders Can Support Their Teams Through Tough Times:[01:54] Modeling the honest and open behavior you want to see on your team[06:40] Creating a safe environment for employees to share with you[10:26] Listening versus hearing[12:03] Setting clear expectations while caring for your team[13:04] Sometimes, listening can be the best support[15:47] Encouraging open dialogue while honoring trustResources:Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Confidential Conversations: How Leaders Can Support Their Teams Through Tough Times:“ As leaders, we get into fix it mode right away, and that's sometimes when we might jump the gun and have all kinds of solutions when sometimes there is no solution, especially if it’s a personal issue.” - Rachel Book“ If someone's going to have the confidence in you to share something they're struggling with, then keep their confidence. It isn't helpful for you to go somewhere else with that confidence and share it, even if you think you're doing right by the person. ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
In this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’re looking at the differences between working at a big company versus a small company. We’re discussing the impact you can have, how empowered you are to act, and the difference each can have for your career advancement.There’s no right answer to which is better, and we’ve both had experience in each. Whether you're deciding where to start your career or considering a change, this episode offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.▶️ Big Company Versus Small Company: Impact, Empowerment & Career Advancement:[02:22] Feeling the impact of your work at a small company versus a big company[07:56] The difference in structure and hierarchy between big and small companies[17:04] Ingenuity, intuition, and courageousness in the decisions you make[23:09] Don’t be scared to make mistakes[29:38] Starting your career at a small company versus a big companyResources:Admiral McRaven’s commencement speech at the University of Texas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxBQLFLei70 Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Big Company Versus Small Company: Impact, Empowerment & Career Advancement:“ Being part of such a large machine can sometimes make your own individual accomplishments feel a little bit diminished. When you work at a smaller company, you feel your impact every single day. ” - Rachel Book“ Take the chance. Don't be the guy or girl standing on the sidelines watching. Get in the game. Big company or small company, put yourself out there. ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Today’s episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed is all about having difficult workplace conversations. This is a tough topic. Some people can very easily turn off their emotions and have open and honest dialogue about difficult topics and situations, and some people really struggle with it. And that’s understandable, having those difficult conversations may be one of the hardest parts of leadership.Whether it’s delivering bad news, providing constructive criticism, or managing performance reviews, we’re offering practical advice to help leaders and employees navigate these challenging interactions with empathy and directness.▶️ How to Have Difficult Conversations at Work (As a Leader and an Employee):[02:40] Getting better at hard conversations through experience[03:30] Strategies for leaders navigating difficult conversations[07:55] Being on the receiving end of a hard conversation[09:31] Giving open and honest feedback throughout the year[15:23] Navigating hard conversations with authenticity[18:08] Balancing negative feedback with positive feedback[20:33] Building rapport with your employeesResources:Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan & Al Switzler Trombone Player Wanted, Marcus BuckinghamWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from How to Have Difficult Conversations at Work (As a Leader and an Employee):“ The more difficult conversations you have, the better you get at them. ” - Rachel Book“ People who are authentic, even in really difficult discussions, are appreciated. ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Our topic on today’s episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed is the evolving landscape of leadership - leadership erosion, leadership modifications, and how leadership has changed over time.We’re discussing the nature versus nurture debate in leadership. Are people born leaders or can they learn to become great leaders? We’re also exploring how we perceive our leaders. Leaders can’t be perfect, they’re only human after all. Finally, we’re looking at how to craft an authentic leadership style. Tune in to learn more.▶️ The Evolving Landscape of Leadership: Nature vs Nurture, Empathy & Authenticity:[01:43] Gaining leadership insight through real-world observation[06:12] The impact of personal struggles on leadership[08:17] Understanding our expectations of leaders[10:50] The difference between high performance and leadership potential[16:45] Assembling a personal board of directors[23:18] Crafting an authentic leadership styleResources:The New Gold Standard by Joseph MichelliE15: Navigating Toxic Work Environments (as a Leader or Team Member)Trombone Player Wanted, Marcus BuckinghamWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from The Evolving Landscape of Leadership: Nature vs Nurture, Empathy & Authenticity:“ The leadership styles that have worked in the past may not continue to work currently and in the future. ” - Rachel Book“ What should people expect from leadership? I don't think you should expect much. They are people too.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Over the last few months, we’ve had some amazing conversations around what it takes to lead with clarity and purpose in today’s fast-changing workplace. So in this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we’ve pulled together five of the most powerful insights we want to highlight. These are real-world leadership lessons that can help you build a resilient, purpose-driven career in 2025.Whether you're navigating ambiguity, adapting to AI, or trying to take more ownership of your career, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you show up with confidence and intention.▶️ How to Build a Resilient, Purpose-Driven Career in 2025: 5 Leadership Lessons[02:08] Navigating ambiguity in the workplace[05:17] Getting curious about AI and evolving technologies[11:45] Remote work and workplace learning[17:12] Taking ownership of your career[23:04] Toxic work environmentsResources:E14: Navigating Ambiguity in the Workplace (And During A Crisis)E9: Is AI Coming for Your Job? The Future of AI in the WorkplaceE10: The Future of Work: Remote, Hybrid, or In-Office?E13: Navigating Changing Workplace Dynamics: Employer-Employee RelationshipsE15: Navigating Toxic Work EnvironmentsWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from How to Build a Resilient, Purpose-Driven Career in 2025: 5 Real-World Leadership Lessons:“ The contract or the relationship between employers and employees is changing.” - Rachel Book“ Have I positioned myself from a skillset perspective to be valuable no matter what the business's decisions are? ” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
Our discussion on work-life balance, or as Patrick calls it, work-life freedom, remains as relevant as ever. We’re taking a moment to revisit that conversation from episode 6. This has been a hot topic forever. The actual balancing of your career and your responsibilities at the office with your relationships, extracurricular activities, and responsibilities at home can be challenging. We know from experience!That’s why we’re sharing practical advice on navigating your professional and personal life, the importance of communication, how to balance changing priorities, and the impact of work culture on personal choices. ▶️ Work-Life Balance Versus Work-Life Freedom:[01:45] Being present when you are not at work[07:57] Communicating shifting priorities with your colleagues and your family[15:11] Challenging the unwritten rules at work[21:39] Men’s versus women’s views on work-life balance[27:24] Making wise decisions about where you spend your time[32:41] Additional resourcesResources:The Atlantic: Why Women Still Can’t Have It All by Anne-Marie SlaughterUnfinished Business by Anne-Marie SlaughterNew York Daily News: Executive Katherine Zaleski's Apology and Startup for Working MomsDrop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less by Tiffany DufuWould you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Work-Life Balance Versus Work-Life Freedom:“ We can do it all, but just not at the same time. ” - Rachel Book“ Work will always be there. And if you work for people who overtly make you feel bad for trying to execute work-life freedom, then go.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
On this episode of Leadership & Motivation Unleashed, we're here to talk about intergenerational dynamics. Currently, there are four different generations in the workforce - baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z. People who grew up in different generations have different life experiences, perspectives, and approaches to work. When you put everyone together in the workplace, there's bound to be some friction and lack of understanding.We’re exploring both the challenges and the value of bringing different generations together at work. Tune in because this is a juicy topic!▶️ Intergenerational Dynamics at Work:[01:46] The consequences of judging people from other generations[03:43] Understanding generational differences and biases[14:51] The value different generations bring to the workforce[16:09] Reverse mentoring[19:14] Leading a multigenerational organizationResources:The M-Factor: How the Millennial Generation Is Rocking the Workplace by Lynne C. Lancaster and David Stillman Jane Fraser from Citibank was the first female CEO of a top 10 bank: https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2025/01/29/us-bancorp-president-gunjan-kedia-to-become-its-first-female-ceo.html Would you like to ask a question, offer feedback, or request a topic for a future episode? Fill out this one-question form.Notable Quotes from Intergenerational Dynamics at Work:“ We forget that different people have different experiences and different things to offer based on how long they've lived on the planet.” - Rachel Book“ Whether they're older, younger, if they look different than you, talk different than you, doesn't mean their brain is different than you. We all bleed red. We all have wisdom if we're allowed to unleash it.” - Patrick LawConnect with Your Hosts:📱 Follow Patrick Law on LinkedIn.📱 Follow Rachel Book on LinkedIn.🎥 Follow Leadership & Motivation Unleashed on YouTube._________Produced by Ideablossoms
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