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Discover a world where everyone’s influence matters. Welcome to Daily Influence, co-hosted by Brian Smith, founder and managing partner at IA Business Advisors and author of the 'I in Team' series, along with IA Business Advisors Partner Gregg Brooke Koleno. Each day, Brian and Gregg craft episodes designed to elevate your influence and transform it into a force for positive and responsible influence.
Every episode is a journey through real-life experiences, transformative concepts, and powerful tools that help you FIND, BE & BUILD Your Influence. We aim to help you radiate your unique influence, find balance, celebrate victories, and shape your reality. The podcast highlights the art of leading yourself and those around you, remaining humble and composed, learning effectively, and embracing true diversity.
Whether you tune in during your morning coffee, mid-day break, or your evening wind-down, Daily Influence is your daily dose of inspiration and upliftment, relevant to your everyday life. The goal is not just to influence you but to equip you with insights you can share within your sphere of influence.
Join Brian and Gregg as they explore the principles and practices that align with IA Business Advisors' S.M.A.R.T. Management Consulting Methods, offering practical advice and thought-provoking discussions. Remember, it’s not just about being part of the team; it’s about finding the ‘I’ in every team.
So, listen, learn, share, and expand your influence with Daily Influence. Tune in and discover how to make your influence matter, every day.
614 Episodes
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On today’s Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with super-connector and servant leader Steve Ramona host of Doing Business with a Servant’s Heart (800+ episodes, 50K listeners per show) and creator of Together We Serve on E360 TV (1.6M+ monthly viewers). With more than $1B in project impact and $125M in partner deals sparked through simple, intentional introductions, Steve breaks down why service before selling is the most reliable growth strategy in business and life. Steve shares: • The gym front-desk lesson that launched a lifetime of relationship capital • A referral story that changed a special-needs family’s trajectory—and his own • How “ASLA” (Ask, Shut up, Listen, Ask) makes you transformational, not transactional • Using AI as a time-return tool without losing the human touch • Reversing a 2025 diabetes diagnosis through learning, fasting, and community support • Everyday practices to lead with curiosity, call people by name, and create positive ripples Bonus for listeners: The first three people who message Gregg about this episode will receive the book that Steve credits with a million-dollar mindset shift: The Missing Secret of Think and Grow Rich by John Mitchell. “Your network is your net worth—but it’s how you serve within that network that defines your impact.” Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveramona/ stever1961@gmail.com.
In this Thanksgiving episode of Daily Influence, Brian reminds us that gratitude is one of the purest forms of positive influence. Drawing from The I in Team Series and the S.M.A.R.T. principles, he explores how individual awareness, meaningful connections, and thankful reflection strengthen our influence and deepen our relationships. This episode invites you to pause, breathe, and honor the people, challenges, and lessons that shaped your year. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, or your wider community, today is an opportunity to acknowledge the influence you give—and the influence you receive. From our team to yours, we wish you a peaceful, intentional, and deeply grateful Thanksgiving.
On today’s Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA welcomes Dr. Falguni Shah, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and author of the Amazon #1 bestseller From Gaslighting to Truthlighting. Through her groundbreaking concept of Truthlighting, Dr. Shah offers a powerful framework for building trust, fostering fairness, and leading with authenticity. In this episode: • The difference between gaslighting and truthlighting—and why it matters in workplaces and relationships. • How leaders can use Truthlighting to create cultures of clarity and respect. • Why honest validation and compassionate communication are the foundations of responsible influence. Learn more at Website: https://www.fortruthlighting.com Find her book From Gaslighting to Truthlighting on Amazon. https://amzn.in/d/dzyOcaB
Ever send a message you wish you could take back? Before every text, email, or post, take 10 seconds to pause and ask: “Is this how I want to influence this moment?” Today, Brian shares how the smallest pause can protect trust, reduce conflict, and keep your influence aligned with your values. Tap in to learn how the SMART framework helps you communicate with intention, clarity, and purpose. #DailyInfluence #TheIInTeamSeries #Leadership #Intentionality #SMARTManagement #InfluenceMatters
What if burnout was actually a sign that it’s time to evolve? On today’s Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA sits down with Kara Conway Love—lawyer, keynote speaker, author of Leverage Your Influence, and executive coach—to explore how leaders can communicate with confidence, lead with integrity, and reframe responsibility into opportunity. From navigating career evolution to embracing AI with discernment, Kara shares practical wisdom on aligning values, building authentic confidence, and finding joy in the work you get to do each day. In this episode: • How to evolve your career without losing your purpose. • Why communication rooted in empathy and integrity creates lasting influence. • The “Today I Get To” mindset that transforms burnout into inspiration. • Real-world ways leaders can use AI as a creative partner, not a crutch. Connect with Kara: Website: https://www.karaconwaylove.com/speaker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karaconwaylove/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karaconwaylove/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@karaconwaylove/playlists
In today’s episode of Daily Influence, Brian explores one of the most underestimated tools in leadership and human connection: the apology. Rooted in The I in Team Series and strengthened by the S.M.A.R.T. framework, a genuine apology becomes more than an admission of fault—it becomes a strategic act of responsible influence. Brian breaks down how accepting responsibility restores psychological safety, how meaningful repair strengthens relationships, and how intentional realignment brings teams back to shared purpose. When done well, an apology shifts influence from reactive to intentional, turning moments of conflict into opportunities for growth and unity. Your influence is constant—make sure it reflects integrity, humility, and accountability.
In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Dustin Wilson, Manager of Community Relations and Social Impact at Duly Health & Care. Dustin shares how his journey from occupational therapy to community leadership led him to create meaningful change through the Duly Charitable Fund and the Duly Gooders volunteer program. Under Dustin’s guidance, Duly’s annual Week of Service has become a movement of compassion and collaboration engaging hundreds of volunteers, supporting local nonprofits, and reminding everyone that healthcare extends far beyond clinic walls. Tune in as Dustin and Gregg-Brooke explore: • The evolution of Duly’s community engagement and volunteer initiatives • How purpose-driven leadership fuels culture and connection • Ways individuals and organizations can start small to spark lasting change Dustin reminds us that doing good is contagious and that with empathy, intention, and teamwork, every act of service can create a ripple of positive influence. Contact Dustin at dustin.wilson@duly.com
In today’s episode of The Daily Influence, Brian invites you to look in the mirror and ask one of the hardest—but most transformative—questions in personal responsibility: “Am I the problem?” Drawing from The I in Team Series and the SMART Management philosophy, Brian explores how our own presence, patterns, and behaviors shape the environments around us—often more than we realize. This episode helps you identify when your influence may be contributing to recurring issues and provides practical guidance for shifting from reactive behaviors to more intentional, responsible influence. If you’re ready to elevate your leadership, relationships, and self-awareness, this episode offers the clarity and direction you need to start improving today.
In a world where technology often feels intimidating, D. Anne Gunia, founder of Cyber Venger and author of Cyber Clarity, is on a mission to change the narrative. She joins host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA on Daily Influence to discuss how education and transparency can replace fear with confidence in cybersecurity and technology. From helping people recover hacked social media accounts to empowering women to ask tech questions without hesitation, D. Anne shows how knowledge truly is power. Together, they explore responsible influence in a digital age—where honesty, learning, and empowerment build stronger, safer communities. In this episode: • How Cyber Clarity helps business leaders make informed IT decisions • Why fear-based marketing undermines trust in tech • The mindset shifts that empower women to embrace technology • Practical ways to learn and verify AI responsibly • Why sharing knowledge is one of the purest forms of influence Connect with D. Anne Gunia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-gunia-cybervenger/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cybervenger/
Today we revisit Daily Influence Episode 173 where we asked, Are you struggling with change? How many change projects have you been involved in that end up not finished? We talk about redefining change from day one, giving it a new name and a new life to get us to 100% success.
As we close out a milestone week at The Daily Influence, Brian reflects on how reviewing our week through the lens of influence helps us grow with greater intention and awareness. Instead of judging your week as “good” or “bad,” consider how your influence showed up—how you affected others and how others shaped you in return. In this episode, Brian shares why reflection isn’t about dwelling on the past but preparing for what’s ahead. By viewing our actions, words, and choices as mirrors rather than measures, we can recognize our ripples, learn from them, and begin again with renewed purpose.
Non-technical founders, this one’s for you. In this episode, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Nelly Yusupova—seasoned technologist, fractional CTO, and founder of TechSpeak—to demystify building scalable products without wasting time or money. Nelly shares her journey from first-generation immigrant with zero tech exposure to leading engineering teams and teaching thousands of entrepreneurs how to “speak tech,” set clear processes, and lead with confidence. You’ll hear: • How learning the language of tech transforms your ability to lead teams and vendors • The costly pitfalls non-technical founders face—and the process discipline that prevents them • A leadership moment that proves culture > “star performers,” plus why no one should be a single point of failure • Nelly’s “AI Ladder”: moving beyond tidy prompts to strategic automations and AI agents that actually save hours • Why process mapping comes before AI—and how action beats perfection every time Nelly also previews her upcoming AI cohort on automations and agents. https://www.techspeakforentrepreneurs.com/
In this milestone 600th episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith reflects on the people, moments, and experiences that have shaped life’s biggest decisions. From mentors and family to chance encounters and challenges, influence shows up in ways we often overlook. Brian explores the ripple effect of influence, the power of awareness in recognizing those who guide us, and the responsibility we carry to pay it forward. Join Brian in celebrating 600 episodes of intentional and responsible influence — and take a moment to thank those who’ve left their mark on your journey. “Every choice, every action, every word you share can become the moment that influences someone else’s biggest decision.”
What if the hardest chapters of your life became the foundation for your greatest transformation? On today’s Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA sits down with Christy Clark, a private wealth advisor whose journey of courage, self-awareness, and reinvention shows the power of responsible influence in action. After choosing to become a single mother at 41, Christy embraced a path of healing and empowerment—learning to silence negative self-talk, value her worth, and lead with grace through both personal and professional transitions. From her years in finance to building community rooted in compassion, Christy reminds us that true influence begins within. In this episode: • Rewriting your story and choosing growth over victimhood • Holding space for others while honoring your own needs • Leaning into discomfort as a path to expansion • Cultivating positive influence in family, work, and community “It’s never too late to rewrite your story. You can close a chapter, learn from it, and create whatever comes next.” – Christy Clark Connect with Christy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-clark-b297843/ cclark@caprock.com
Join Brian Smith on today's revisit of episode 214 of The I in Team Series and your Daily Influence as we dive into the evolving world of the fractionalized work environments and how leaders can approach it with empathy. 🌍✨ In this episode, Brian discusses: - The rise of the fractional economy and how people are embracing multiple streams of income 💼💡 - The impact of shorter attention spans and frequent, smaller engagements and the effect on mental health and work-life balance 🧠🌴 - The importance of empathy in leadership, especially when managing diverse and flexible work schedules 🤝❤️ Discover how understanding and adapting to these changes can help leaders create a balanced and supportive work culture. Plus, get insights on how to leverage the strengths of a fractional workforce to achieve outstanding results. 🔗 **Don't miss out!** Listen now and elevate your leadership approach. Reach out to us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X @TheIinTeamSeries for more insights and support. Also, check out our books on Amazon for deeper dives into building responsible influence and effective teams. 📚✨ Individual Influence; Find the I in Team Positive Influence; Be the I in Team Responsible Influence; Build the I in Team Tune in and transform your influence today! 🎧✨ #Podcast #Leadership #GigEconomy #FractionalWork #Empathy #TeamBuilding #DailyInfluence #IinTeamSeries
In this revisit to Episode 258 of the Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith delves into the transformative power of positive influence within organizations. Discover practical strategies for fostering empathy, transparent communication, and effective teamwork. Learn how individual actions can create a ripple effect, shaping a positive organizational culture. Tune in to explore how you can become a beacon of positive influence and drive meaningful change in your team and beyond.
What does it take to rebuild your life after everything changes and come out stronger on the other side? On today’s Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA, sits down with Hope Firsel, a women’s life coach and certified divorce specialist whose journey through infertility, cancer, and divorce inspired her mission to help others heal and rise. With a master’s in Organizational Psychology from the London School of Economics and advanced training in Rapid Resolution Therapy, Hope blends strategy with compassion to guide women through their most difficult transitions. In this episode: • How personal adversity shaped Hope’s calling to help others rebuild with resilience • Why healing requires both emotional and strategic support • The power of collaboration among coaches, attorneys, and wellness professionals • How to find gratitude and purpose — even in life’s hardest moments Hope reminds us that no matter what we face, every day is a new chance to create positivity and connection. Connect with Hope: hopefirsel.com or Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn: @HopeFirsel
In revisit to Episode 477 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores The Art of Letting Go—a powerful reframing of delegation as an act of empowerment, not abdication. Drawing from his S.M.A.R.T. Management methodology and The I in Team Series, Brian reveals how effective delegation starts with self-awareness and ends in trust. Learn how to align responsibilities with individual competencies, foster a culture of scalable leadership, and avoid becoming a bottleneck in your organization. If you struggle with delegation, this episode will help you rethink your approach so you can grow by letting go—intentionally, strategically, and smartly.
What does it mean to lead with kindness in a world that often values speed over sincerity? In this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno, MBA sits down with Emily Tyler, Director of Development at Food for Greater Elgin, to explore how positivity, integrity, and service come together to create lasting community impact. From her early years as a music teacher to leading one of the region’s most impactful nonprofits, Emily shares how influence begins with listening, how laughter helps us face hard times, and why true leadership means practicing your values—not just professing them. In this episode: • How “walking the talk” builds trust and responsible influence. • The power of perspective and humor in difficult times. • Why acknowledging challenges creates stronger, more compassionate teams. • Lessons from Food for Greater Elgin’s mission to feed hope and nourish community. Tune in for a refreshing reminder that positivity isn’t about ignoring the hard stuff—it’s about meeting it with courage, care, and a belief that small acts of kindness truly matter. Learn more about Food for Greater Elgin: foodforgreaterelgin.org Connect with Emily: etyler@ffge.org
In this revisit to episode 494 of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores how the principles of S.M.A.R.T. Management—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely—can help leaders navigate today’s increasingly complex and diverse environments. Whether your sphere of influence is local or spans continents, Brian explains how specificity, cultural empathy, and proactive communication can bridge gaps, reduce reactivity, and foster more connected, effective teams. Discover how to lead with intention in a fast-paced world and create influence that transcends borders.
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