The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast

In this powerful episode, Brad May returns for Part 2 of a raw and honest conversation about leadership, resilience, identity, and what it truly takes to win at the highest level.Brad reflects on being traded multiple times during his NHL career, adapting to new teams, and learning how to integrate into different locker rooms without disrupting culture. He shares the emotional journey of winning the Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks — and why celebrating that moment with his family meant more than the trophy itself.The conversation expands beyond hockey into business leadership. Brad breaks down why coaches are “salesmen,” why clarity of vision is essential, and why delegation without interference builds trust. He unpacks the difference between playing not to lose versus playing to win — and why excuses quietly erode culture.At its core, this episode is about ownership. Ownership of performance. Ownership of mistakes. Ownership of mindset.As Brad says, there is no “try.” You either do or you don’t.Episode Highlights:0:00 - Mindset over body: eliminating "try" and taking ownership0:34 - Welcome and introduction to part two of the episode1:31 - Adapting to seven different NHL teams and building new relationships6:00 - Winning the 2007 Stanley Cup with Anaheim after 16-year career7:50 - Scott Niedermeyer's perspective on being lucky to share the Cup with family11:04 - What makes a good coach: selling a system and getting buy-in13:49 - Comparing coaching styles: Mark Crawford vs Ted Nolan vs Randy Carlisle15:30 - Ted Nolan's simple advice: "Just play left wing" analogy17:31 - Randy Carlisle's relentless work ethic and pursuit of excellence21:28 - Why some players leave the game bitter and unfulfilled25:08 - Identity after hockey: from "I used to be" to "I am a hockey player"30:28 - Eliminating excuses: "You either do or you don't"33:28 - Leadership lesson from Brian Burke: delegating responsibility to coaches55:38 - Playing to win vs playing not to lose: the power of identifying your goal58:38 - The bar speech that united the team and families to win togetherKey Takeaways:Leaders must communicate crystal-clear goals (short, medium, and long term).Identity loss can derail high performers after retirement or career shifts.Playing to “not lose” creates hesitation; playing to win creates momentum.Ownership beats excuses — every time.Leaders must reflect on whether failure was execution or lack of resources.Energy, clarity, and consistency win over time.You must declare what you want — silence guarantees nothing.Resources Mentioned: The Secret (law of attraction concept)Tony Robbins – mindset principle referencedNIL (Name, Image, Likeness) era in NCAA athleticsCold plunge discipline practiceBillions (TV show reference for executive coaching concept)Notable Quotes: “Your mind is in charge. Doesn’t matter what your body feels, just do it.” - Brad May“It’s okay if you’re not successful, but own it and learn from it and let’s go. Let’s keep moving.” - Brad May“The moment that a coach compromises his values, he's not the same guy and he's probably not as good.” - Brad May“A coach is just a salesman. He needs 25 guys to buy in.” - Brad May“You gotta enjoy the small wins.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“There's just some people, some leaders, who are just not having the hard enough conversations.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“You also have to have people around you that are willing to say - hey, you're being either too easy or too hard. Like you just, you have to have a team around you to help you identify as a leader.” - Dwayne KerriganGuest Bio: Brad May is a former NHL forward whose 19-year career spanned more than 1,000 regular-season games across the league. He is a Stanley Cup champion, winning with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, and remains a recognizable figure in hockey history for his 1993 overtime playoff goal against Boston, remembered by fans as the iconic “May Day” moment.Following his retirement from professional hockey in 2010, May transitioned into broadcasting, working as an NHL analyst with CBC, Rogers Sportsnet, and AT&T SportsNet, where his candid, player-first perspective made him a natural presence on air. In 2024, May entered a new chapter off the ice, joining NFP as a Client Executive, where he works with businesses and individuals on insurance and risk management.Guest Social Links: Instagram: www.instagram.com/maydayhockey LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/brad-may-24228662Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan:FacebookInstagramLinkedInWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this episode of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast, former NHL veteran Brad May joins Dwayne for candid conversation about leadership, grit, and longevity — on and off the ice.Brad reflects on his 19-year NHL career, what separated players who made it from those who didn’t, and why mental fortitude mattered more than raw talent. From locker room lessons and team dynamics to integrity in business and life, Brad shares the foundational principles that shaped his journey: set achievable goals, outwork the competition, do the right thing — even when no one is watching.He speaks openly about fear, discipline, evolving training methods, investing in himself, and the power of speaking goals into existence. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, or chasing a dream, this conversation is a masterclass in character, culture, and consistency.Episode Highlights:0:00 - Opening: The power of achievable goals and how success begets success2:10 - Amazing Race experience: A month of uninterrupted father-daughter bonding8:13 - Ken May's integrity story: Choosing ethics over extra commission in real estate13:36 - Playing 1,041 NHL games: The 5% club and what it takes to last 19 years14:47 - The Miracle on Ice: Herb Brooks' leadership and the power of divide and conquer21:36 - Training evolution: What Brad wishes he knew then vs. what athletes know now27:54 - Nathan McKinnon's training: Heavy lifting before games to wake up the nervous system33:28 - Building championship teams: The right mix of leaders, followers, convicts, and dreamers39:04 - Locker room lesson: When Pat LaFontaine taught Brad about playing smart vs. playing hard49:35 - The power of manifestation: Speaking your goals into existence58:13 - "You can't get blood from a rock": Brad's mental fortitude superpower1:02:03 - Parenting reflection: Being too soft on the next generation vs. learning through adversityKey Takeaways:Success is the realization of a predetermined goalAchievable goals create momentum and compound winsLongevity requires discipline beyond talentMental fortitude is a competitive advantageYou cannot succeed alone — success is collectiveSpeak goals into existence and back them with actionResources Mentioned:The Secret (law of attraction concept)Miracle on Ice (1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team story)Herb Brooks leadership modelJournaling & written goal-settingQuotes:“Set your goals, achievable goals, and you do that on a regular basis and you're gonna get to where you're going.” - Brad May “The definition of success is the realization of a predetermined goal.” - Brad May“You can’t get blood from a rock.” - Brad May“Leadership shows up in a lot of different ways.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“The strongest force in the human psyche is to remain congruent with how we identify ourselves.” - Dwayne KerriganBrad May is a former NHL forward whose 19-year career spanned more than 1,000 regular-season games across the league. He is a Stanley Cup champion, winning with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, and remains a recognizable figure in hockey history for his 1993 overtime playoff goal against Boston, remembered by fans as the iconic “May Day” moment. Following his retirement from professional hockey in 2010, May transitioned into broadcasting, working as an NHL analyst with CBC, Rogers Sportsnet, and AT&T SportsNet, where his candid, player-first perspective made him a natural presence on air. In 2024, May entered a new chapter off the ice, joining NFP as a Client Executive, where he works with businesses and individuals on insurance and risk management. LinksInstagram: www.instagram.com/maydayhockeyLinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/brad-may-24228662Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Emma Murray and Dwayne Kerrigan move from awareness into practical performance tools. Emma introduces one of the most powerful distinctions in high performance: critique versus criticism.She explains why self-criticism is a survival response that quietly destroys confidence, slows learning, and locks people into repeated mistakes. Through examples from elite sport, sales, leadership, parenting, and everyday life, Emma breaks down how to review performance by examining the entire process — thoughts, feelings, actions, and results — rather than attacking outcomes or identity.The conversation also dives into fear-based leadership, tunnel vision, stress responses, and why people perform worse when they feel watched, pressured, or unsafe. Emma shares actionable techniques to regain presence under pressure, including breath, body awareness, and “small focus” anchors that keep the mind out of fight-or-flight. This episode equips leaders, entrepreneurs, and performers with a repeatable framework for learning faster, leading better, and performing consistently — even when stakes are high.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Emma on self-kindness under pressure and stopping the internal threat response01:00 – Dwayne intro + framing Part 2: turning attention and mindset into action02:00 – Critique over criticism: how thoughts drive feelings, actions, and results03:30 – Outcome focus vs process focus and why pressure hijacks performance05:05 – How to critique the entire performance process (thinking, feeling, doing)06:40 – Turning failure into growth by extracting the right lessons08:00 – Why quarterly reviews fail and daily reflection matters09:45 – Coaching teams beyond checklists and task correction11:25 – A-game vs B-game language and building awareness in teams13:40 – Leaders, fear, control, and psychological safety15:30 – Running toward outcomes vs accessing creativity and big-picture thinking17:30 – The “flashlight of attention” metaphor for leaders and parents19:40 – Stress responses, presence, and anchoring attention (breath, feet, listening)22:00 – Training attention as a performance muscle25:45 – Stress cycles, recovery, and sustainable performance29:10 – Introduction to the Closed Eye Process and presence training32:00 – Deep dive: critiquing vs criticizing explained step-by-step36:30 – Survival wiring, subconscious files, and performance memory39:30 – The CHIMP brain, danger signals, and slipping into B-game42:30 – Small controllable focus as the pathway back to A-gameKey Takeaways:Critique examines process, not personal worthThoughts drive feelings, feelings drive actions, actions drive resultsGrowth comes from extracting learnings — not from failure aloneFear narrows focus and creates tunnel visionSmall, controllable focus prevents fight-or-flightConnection reduces fear and restores executionQuotes:“Failure does not give you growth if you are not actually eliciting the lessons from it.” - Emma Murray“Feet on floor, bum on chair … Bring your attention to your feet, your bum, your breath … those things are gonna anchor you back into the present moment” - Emma Murray“When all this fails, use your breath” - Emma Murray“The human mind cannot carry two thoughts simultaneously.” - Dwayne KerriganResources MentionedCritique Over Criticism FrameworkA-Game / B-Game Performance ModelCHIMP Paradox – Dr. Steve PetersClosed-Eye Process Emma is sought-after by ASX 100 corporations, executives, and the education sector for her unique High Performance Mindfulness practice that drives sustainable improvements in performance, by providing the skills and tools that enable participants to bring their 'A-Game' to high-pressure moments.Website: https://www.emmamurray.com.au/Instagram: www.instagram.com/highperformancemindfulnessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/em.murray.mindcoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-performance-mindfulness/Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

Performance mindset coach Emma Murray returns to The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast to break down why even highly capable people struggle under pressure - and how to fix it.Emma explains that humans are not wired to perform at their best in business, sport, or life - we’re wired for survival. When pressure hits, our attention naturally drifts to fear, loss, and outcomes we can’t control, pulling us out of the present moment. Through powerful examples from golf, sales, leadership, parenting, and elite sport, Emma shows how performance collapses the moment attention leaves the task.Together, Dwayne and Emma unpack the difference between skillset and mindset, why elite performers win through attention regulation, and how “chunking down” - narrowing focus to something small, controllable, and strength-based - restores clarity, confidence, and execution.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Emma opens by explaining why humans are wired for survival, not greatness.01:00 – Dwayne introduces Emma and frames the conversation around skillset, mindset, and attention.03:30 – Emma explains why attention patterns are universal across sport, business, and life.06:00 – Golf example: how attention drifts under pressure and breaks execution.08:30 – Skillset vs mindset explained using the “boxes within boxes” analogy.11:00 – Scott McLaughlin story and consistency through mindset regulation.13:30 – Expectations, execution, and why lowering outcomes is the wrong solution.16:00 – Survival wiring: fear of loss vs fear of missing gain.18:30 – Sales leadership example and why people avoid known next steps.21:00 – Horse riding comeback story and gratitude removing danger thinking.23:30 – Freeze response explained and attention leaving the arena.26:00 – Why leaders can’t fix fear with cheerleading or pressure.28:30 – Catching attention drift and recognizing A-game vs B-game signals.31:30 – Small focus strategies for golf, sales, and presentations.34:30 – Breath as the fastest way to regulate attention and mindset.38:30 – Process focus vs outcome focus and competitive advantage.41:30 – Post-execution review introduced: critique over criticism.44:30 – Bonus segment setup: “Chunking Down” as a performance tool.47:30 – Chunking down explained with leadership, sales, and riding examples.Key Takeaways:Humans are wired for survival, not peak performancePressure pulls attention away from the present momentSkillset lives inside mindset — mindset determines deliveryOutcomes and comparison destabilize performanceSmall, controllable focus creates safety and clarityBreath is the fastest way to regulate attentionElite performers anchor attention on process, not resultsPerformance improves when danger is removed from the mindQuotes:“We are not wired to be great in competition or to be great in sales or business, or even a great friend for that matter, or a great parent. We are just wired for survival.” - Emma MurrayBig stuff, big goals, big expectations, small focus.” - Emma Murray“If you are stepping into that moment with your attention on the process, you've already got a massive competitive advantage.” - Emma Murray“Control is an illusion” - Dwayne KerriganResources MentionedTraditional Mindfulness (adapted by Emma Murray)Chunking Down TechniqueClosed-Eye Processes (mentioned as bonus content)Emma is sought-after by ASX 100 corporations, executives, and the education sector for her unique High Performance Mindfulness practice that drives sustainable improvements in performance, by providing the skills and tools that enable participants to bring their 'A-Game' to high-pressure moments.Website: https://www.emmamurray.com.au/Instagram: www.instagram.com/highperformancemindfulnessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/em.murray.mindcoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-performance-mindfulness/Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this special bonus episode recorded ahead of their full mindset conversation, Dwayne Kerrigan and Emma Murray reflect on a deeply personal topic: relationships.As Valentine’s Day approaches, they explore how intimate relationships often absorb the stress, pressure, and emotional buildup from the outside world. Dwayne shares candidly about his own growth — recognizing how habitual reactions, unmet needs, and old internal stories can surface at home if they’re not processed throughout the day. Emma adds insight into how unconscious patterns, primary questions, and survival wiring shape the way we show up with those we love most.Together, they discuss raising standards inside the relationship, practicing conscious awareness, meeting your partner’s needs without expectation, and replacing self-judgment with grace. This short but powerful conversation reframes love not as grand gestures, but as attention, awareness, and intentional daily behavior.Episode Highlights:0:00 - Introduction: Valentine's Day as a renewal for relationships0:27 - Viewing Valentine's Day as a time for awareness and meeting needs1:23 - Why we release stress on loved ones instead of during the day2:41 - Holding different standards for work vs. intimate relationships3:43 - The importance of awareness in meeting your partner's needs4:34 - Breaking habitual negative response patterns in relationships5:11 - How relationship quality affects every area of life5:38 - "Chains of habit are too light to be felt until too heavy to be broken"6:06 - Treating your partner with conscious awareness7:14 - Focusing on relationship growth: reading, podcasts, and learning7:53 - Enjoying the process instead of fixating on an end state8:30 - Getting addicted to lighting up your partner9:10 - Managing anger and identifying emotional triggers9:52 - Using Byron Katie's four questions to examine stories we tell ourselves10:12 - Taking responsibility instead of projecting onto your partner10:30 - We're all learning - giving yourself and your partner grace11:54 - Appreciating yourself for being imperfectKey Takeaways:We often release built-up stress on the people we love mostAwareness creates choice inside intimate momentsLove grows when we actively meet one another’s needsSelf-reflection prevents projectionGrace and ownership dissolve conflict faster than blameRelationships are built through process, not perfectionConscious love is practiced — not automaticQuotes:“There’s nothing better in this world and nothing makes life feel greater than having an amazing relationship that is just full of love and abundance when it is going and operating at its peak level.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“ I didn't hold myself to the same standard inside the intimate relationship as I did in my professional life.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“If things are not good in your relationship, they’re not good anywhere you go.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“I think our relationships are very based on just habitual responses.” - Emma Murray“Our relationship is the core of our existence here.” - Emma Murray“The excitement of treating your person that you love most with such conscious awareness.” - Emma MurrayResources MentionedLoving What Is - Byron KatiePrimary Question Framework (personal development concept referenced)10,000 Hours Principle (mastery concept referenced)Emma is sought-after by ASX 100 corporations, executives, and the education sector for her unique High Performance Mindfulness practice that drives sustainable improvements in performance, by providing the skills and tools that enable participants to bring their 'A-Game' to high-pressure moments.Website: https://www.emmamurray.com.au/Instagram: www.instagram.com/highperformancemindfulnessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/em.murray.mindcoach/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-performance-mindfulness/Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this in-depth conversation, Sarah Jeanneault and Dwayne Kerrigan tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in modern business: AI implementation without foundational process.Drawing from Sarah’s background in education, finance, trading psychology, and her current role at ProcedureFlow, the discussion reframes AI not as a silver bullet—but as an amplifier of whatever already exists inside an organization. Together, they explore why many companies are failing to see ROI from AI investments, how skipping SOPs and governance creates chaos, and why leaders must slow down before they scale up.Using powerful metaphors—from sourdough baking to mountain biking—Sarah explains why meaningful AI adoption requires patience, critical thinking, and uncomfortable conversations. The episode also expands into leadership, parenting, culture-building, and the human elements AI will never replace: empathy, judgment, and connection. This is a grounded, honest conversation for leaders who want to use AI responsibly—without gambling their business on hype.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Sarah introduces AI implementation using a sourdough recipe analogy01:00 – Dwayne welcomes listeners and frames Part 202:00 – Imposter syndrome, fear, and language we use to protect ourselves05:00 – Growth mindset and the “10 more steps” principle08:00 – Parenting, resilience, and building long-term capability12:00 – Leadership, culture, and why hard conversations matter16:00 – Why AI investments often fail to produce ROI20:00 – SOPs, governance, and backing the bus up 25:00 – Customer experience, AI chatbots, and human frustration 30:00 – Agentic AI, avatars, and future customer service models 35:00 – Why AI is already here and cannot be undone 40:00 – Doom scrolling, humanity, and preserving curiosity46:00 – Data collection as preparation—not prediction53:00 – Visual flows and simplifying complex knowledge59:00 – AI timelines, human choice, and optionality 01:05:00 – Where AI helps—and where it shouldn’t replace humans 01:10:00 – Final reflections and resourcesKey Takeaways:AI amplifies broken systems, it doesn’t fix themSOPs, processes, and governance must come before automationROI fails when AI is implemented for optics instead of outcomesProcess clarity enables both humans and AI to perform betterNot every industry, or company, is ready for AI at the same paceData collection today enables smarter AI decisions tomorrowAI should augment human judgment, not replace itThe future still belongs to human connection, empathy, and choiceResources Mentioned:ProcedureFlow – Enterprise knowledge management platform - https://procedureflow.com/ Notable Quotes:“The only difference between a dream and a goal is a timeline.” - Sarah Jeanneault “I want people to think about implementation of ai, like you're following a recipe for something that's really tricky to cook.” - Sarah Jeanneault “ If you are willing to go 10 steps of uncertainty when you feel like you really need to stop, but you're gonna push for 10 more seconds, you are going to get so much further ahead of somebody else.” - Sarah Jeanneault “ Anything worthwhile is hard. If it's not, it's probably not worthwhile.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“ The real meaning behind imposter syndrome is, you know, am I enough?” - Dwayne KerriganSarah Jeanneault is the Vice President of Marketing at ProcedureFlow, where she’s helping redefine customer experience in the age of AI. With over 20 years of leadership across fintech, wealth management, and brokerage services, Sarah is an award-winning executive, speaker, and founder who brings both personal passion and professional expertise to the table.In 2023, she was recognized as one of the Top 10 Women Leaders in Finance in the U.S. Known for her dynamic mix of strategic vision and human-centered leadership, Sarah believes lasting success comes from having a goal, a dream, and the determination to pursue it—along with a willingness to keep learning and growing.LinksLinkedIn:https://ca.linkedin.com/in/iam-sarah-potter Website: https://procedureflow.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Procedureflow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/procedureflow Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Sarah Jeanneault shares her unconventional journey from struggling with math in school to becoming a respected leader in fintech, trading education, and enterprise knowledge management. She and Dwayne Kerrigan explore the deep gaps in financial literacy, why traditional education often fails to prepare people for real-world decision-making, and how learning truly begins after formal schooling ends.Sarah explains how she applied adult learning theory to teach herself trading, why psychology matters more than numbers in the markets, and how curiosity, pattern recognition, and humility shaped her success. The discussion expands into the future of education, AI’s role in learning, entrepreneurship, identity shifts after business exits, and the emotional reality of leadership transitions. This episode is a thoughtful examination of growth, risk, and why continuous learning is the most valuable skill anyone can develop.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Sarah opens by naming the gap in real-world financial literacy.02:00 – Dwayne introduces Sarah and frames the episode around learning and reinvention.05:00 – Sarah shares struggling with math and early assumptions about intelligence.09:00 – Losing her best friend and questioning the direction of her life.14:00 – Discovering trading and applying adult learning theory to self-education.18:00 – Why financial literacy is rarely taught despite its life-long impact.23:00 – Breaking down trading basics and removing unnecessary complexity.28:00 – Psychology, emotion, and why ego derails good financial decisions.33:00 – Risk, uncertainty, and learning to sit with discomfort.38:00 – Podcasts, curiosity, and self-directed learning as modern education.44:00 – Continuous learning as the foundation of entrepreneurship and leadership.49:00 – Gamifying learning to build confidence and consistency over time.54:00 – Building community through transparency and shared learning.59:00 – Scaling education-driven businesses and teaching at scale.64:00 – Identity shifts after acquisitions and redefining success.69:00 – Leadership, disagreement, and creating psychologically safe teams.74:00 – AI, critical thinking, and the future of learning.79:00 – Personal growth, reinvention, and staying curious long-term.84:00 – Reflections on learning, humility, and what truly creates confidence.88:00 – Closing thoughts, gratitude, and setting up Part 2.Key Takeaways:Financial literacy is rarely taught, yet deeply shapes life decisions.Learning accelerates when curiosity replaces fear of being “bad at math.”Real education often begins after formal schooling ends.Trading and business are driven as much by psychology as by data.Growth comes from pattern recognition, experimentation, and reflection.Entrepreneurship requires comfort with uncertainty and identity shifts.AI will amplify learning — but only if critical thinking is prioritized.Strong leaders create environments where disagreement is encouraged.Sustainable success comes from continuous learning and reinvention.Resources Mentioned:ProcedureFlow – Enterprise knowledge management platform - https://procedureflow.com/CNBC – Financial markets media referenceNotable Quotes:“ There really isn't a lot of real financial literacy. We really don't talk about - what do you do with money?” - Sarah Jeanneault ”But what I don't want anyone to believe is that tomorrow you can make a million dollars in the S&P because that is not true. There's no lottery ticket to this journey.” - Sarah Jeanneault“ I think I'm most proud of doing quite well in finance … someone who really struggled in school with math.” - Sarah Jeanneault“Stocks go up, sideways, or down — that’s it.” - Sarah Jeanneault“If you think you're gonna go from education, whatever it is, university, high school, wherever you go, and then learning stops, like go start your own business and try not to learn.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“I would say that one of the key components to the most successful people that we've had on the show … the key component that they have threaded through there is they’re learners” - Dwayne KerriganSarah Jeanneault is the Vice President of Marketing at ProcedureFlow, where she’s helping redefine customer experience in the age of AI. With over 20 years of leadership across fintech, wealth management, and brokerage services, Sarah is an award-winning executive, speaker, and founder who brings both personal passion and professional expertise to the table.In 2023, she was recognized as one of the Top 10 Women Leaders in Finance in the U.S. Known for her dynamic mix of strategic vision and human-centered leadership, Sarah believes lasting success comes from having a goal, a dream, and the determination to pursue it—along with a willingness to keep learning and growing.LinksLinkedIn:https://ca.linkedin.com/in/iam-sarah-potterWebsite: https://procedureflow.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProcedureflowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/procedureflowConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Robyn Benincasa returns to go deeper on one of the most misunderstood elements of leadership: commitment when motivation fades. Drawing from decades of adventure racing, firefighting, and nonprofit leadership, Robyn explains why elite teams don’t wait to feel ready — they move forward anyway. Together with Dwayne Kerrigan, Robyn unpacks the difference between confidence and ego, why standing still is often more dangerous than moving imperfectly, and how innovation only emerges when teams focus on how to win, not how to avoid losing. Through unforgettable stories involving Steve Gurney, creative rule-bending, and suffering with grace, she illustrates how forward momentum unlocks answers that planning alone never will. The conversation culminates with a deep dive into Project Athena, the nonprofit Robyn founded to help survivors of medical and traumatic setbacks reclaim identity, confidence, and purpose through team-based endurance adventures. This episode is a masterclass in leadership under pressure, culture design, and why the ability to suffer well — together — is a competitive advantage in business and in life. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 – Robyn explains commitment through action, not emotion. 02:00 – Dwayne connects mentorship, influence, and leadership responsibility. 05:00 – Why being willing to be a beginner fuels innovation. 07:30 – Failure, repetition, and learning through action. 10:30 – Why preparation paralysis keeps people stuck. 13:30 – Emotions, discipline, and not letting feelings run your life. 16:00 – “Winning is that way” and the mindset shift that sparks innovation. 18:30 – Steve Gurney stories and thinking inside the rules vs. white space. 22:00 – Team selection, culture fit, and suffering equally. 26:00 – Ego vs. confidence and rotating leadership by strength. 30:00 – Why top-down leadership fails in complex environments. 34:00 – Relinquishing ego to avoid slowing the entire team down. 38:00 – Project Athena’s mission and creating comeback identities. 43:00 – How shared suffering builds lifelong trust and leadership. 48:00 – “Excellent suffering” and using adversity as an advantage. 52:00 – Robyn’s six hip surgeries and redefining resilience. 54:00 – Where to find Robyn, Project Athena, and closing reflections. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Commitment is demonstrated by action, not emotion. Feelings can inform decisions, but they should never rule them. Forward momentum creates clarity; standing still creates fear. Innovation comes from operating in the white space. Helping others is the healthiest outlet for ego. Identity is shaped by comeback stories, not setbacks. NOTABLE QUOTES: “ I show my commitment to my goals by what I do, regardless of how I feel.” - Robyn Benincasa “ Commitment starts when the fun stops, right? I mean, you're not actually showing your commitment until shit's not fun anymore.” - Robyn Benincasa “There’s a difference between confidence and ego” - Robyn Benincasa “ Anybody can sail a ship in calm waters, but when the shit hits the fan, where are you? - Dwayne Kerrigan RESOURCES MENTIONED: Project Athena – projectathena.org RobynBenincasa.com – leadership resources, blog, free TEAMWORK PDF TEAMWORK Framework (Robyn Benincasa) Steve Gurney – adventure racing innovation examples Adventure Racing World Championships Project Athena Adventures (San Diego Coast Walk, Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim, Keys to Recovery, Zion Traverse) As a two-time World Champion Adventure racer, San Diego Firefighter, and CNN Hero, Robyn Benincasa knows a thing or two about creating Human Synergy, or as she puts it, “That magic that allows ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things together.” Through harrowing experiences in places like the jungles of Borneo and the Himalayan peaks, Robyn has studied the good, the bad, and the not-so-pretty of Extreme Teamwork. Her refreshing and unique techniques build and foster impactful, inspired teams that succeed against all odds and turn setbacks into comebacks. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynbenincasa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobynBenincasa YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobynBenincasaSpeaker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynbenincasa/ Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan Facebook Instagram Linked In Website Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

Dwayne Kerrigan sits down with world-class endurance athlete, firefighter, nonprofit founder, and keynote speaker Robyn Benincasa to unpack what truly separates great teams from the rest. Drawing from decades of extreme adventure racing, Robyn shares how elite teams win not by being the most talented, but by being the most committed to each other. She introduces her powerful TEAMWORK framework, revealing why total commitment, empathy, adversity management, mutual respect, and relinquishing ego are the real competitive advantages—whether you’re racing through jungles or leading a modern organization. Through unforgettable stories—including hallucinations after days without sleep, tying boats together to beat world champions, and redefining leadership mid-race—Robyn shows how purpose, preparation, creativity, and shared ownership create cultures that don’t just survive pressure… they win because of it. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and building teams that operate as one heart, one mind, especially when the stakes are high and the path forward is uncertain. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 – Robyn opens with the defining trait of elite teammates: leaving ego at the start line. 01:00 – Dwayne formally introduces Robyn and outlines her extraordinary background. 03:00 – Robyn shares discovering kayaking after hip surgery and focusing on what she could do. 06:30 – Why progress toward a meaningful goal is what makes humans feel alive. 10:30 – Competing to explore personal limits rather than seeking validation or approval. 14:00 – Why great teams care more about each other than themselves. 18:00 – How Robyn accidentally became a speaker after Fast Company’s “Extreme Teamwork” 21:30 – The importance of leaving ego behind and accepting help to win as a team. 25:30 – The “Steve Gurney Missile” story and choosing to race to win instead of not lose. 30:00 – Creativity, calculated risk, and living in your strengths under pressure. 34:30 – Relinquishing ego, rotating leadership, and leading based on strengths—not titles. 39:00 – Hallucinations, extreme fatigue, and supporting teammates through suffering. 42:00 – Kinetic leadership and adapting leadership styles to what the team needs. 45:30 – Purpose, coaching influence, and how early mentors shaped Robyn’s drive. 50:30 – Innovation, self-awareness, and evolving by leaning into strengths. 56:00 – Finding a greater purpose in business.KEY TAKEAWAYS: Winning teams prioritize commitment to each other, not individual performance. Progress toward a meaningful goal is what makes humans feel alive. Creativity and innovation emerge when teams operate from trust and purpose. Leadership should rotate based on strengths, not titles or tenure. Accepting help is not a weakness, it’s how teams move faster and farther. Great leaders show people how amazing they are, not how amazing the leader is. NOTABLE QUOTES: “ I feel weird when I don't have a goal. I get my juju, I get my energy from progress.” - Robyn Benincasa “ I think humans really feel alive when they're progressing towards a goal.” - Robyn Benincasa “Winning is that way.” - Robyn Benincasa ”You don't inspire people by showing them how amazing you are, you inspire people by showing them how amazing they are.” - Robyn Benincasa “ In business, if you're not innovating, you're, you're dying.” - Dwayne Kerrigan RESOURCES MENTIONED: Project Athena (founded by Robyn Benincasa) Fast Company Magazine – Extreme Teamwork feature Adventure Racing World Championships Guinness World Records (endurance paddling) TEAMWORK framework (Total Commitment, Empathy, Adversity Management, Mutual Respect, We-thinking, Ownership, Relinquishment of ego) Daniel Goleman – Emotional Intelligence (leadership styles reference) As a two-time World Champion Adventure racer, San Diego Firefighter, and CNN Hero, Robyn Benincasa knows a thing or two about creating Human Synergy, or as she puts it, “That magic that allows ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things together.” Through harrowing experiences in places like the jungles of Borneo and the Himalayan peaks, Robyn has studied the good, the bad, and the not-so-pretty of Extreme Teamwork. Her refreshing and unique techniques build and foster impactful, inspired teams that succeed against all odds and turn setbacks into comebacks. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynbenincasa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobynBenincasa YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobynBenincasaSpeaker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynbenincasa/ Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan Facebook Instagram Linked In Website Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Michael Grandjean shares the emotional and psychological turning point that allowed him to rebuild his life and career after profound loss. From a raw moment of self-forgiveness in the mountains of Morocco to the daily discipline of “kicking the can,” Michael walks through the mindset shifts, rituals, and relentless patience required to climb out of depression, debt, and despair.Together with Dwayne Kerrigan, this episode explores the role of brotherhood, leverage, honest self-reflection, and creating a compelling new story when the old one no longer serves you. This is a masterclass in resilience, identity rebuilding, and what it truly takes to come back stronger — with wisdom, humility, and purpose.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Michael opens with the realization that self-forgiveness was required to move forward.01:00 – Episode introduction and framing this as Part 2 of Michael’s comeback story.02:00 – The Morocco mastermind trip and being forced to confront the truth.05:00 – Emotional breakthrough on the mountain and the decision to rebuild.07:30 – Creating the Three Ps: plan, persistence, and patience.09:00 – “Kick the can” explained and committing to daily forward movement.12:00 – Brotherhood, accountability, and why we’re not meant to do life alone.16:00 – Letting go of guilt, disappointment, and the need for self-forgiveness.20:00 – Depression, isolation, and breaking life down to “just get through today.”24:00 – Writing the plan on a whiteboard and becoming resourceful again.30:00 – Changing the internal story to create a compelling future.36:00 – Writing goals again, paying off debt, and getting back to zero.42:00 – Daily mantras, rituals, and retraining the mind.48:00 – Shifting from hourly work to profit-based consulting and rebuilding cash flow.01:01:00 – Final reflections, where to find Michael, and the podcast disclaimer.Key Takeaways:Self-forgiveness is a prerequisite for real forward movement.Progress is built daily through patience, persistence, and simple actions.You cannot rebuild alone - community and accountability matter.Changing your internal story changes your future trajectory.Rituals, mantras, and physiology are tools for rewiring the mind.Resources Mentioned:Checkmate: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1365025640684229 Tony Robbins – Date With DestinyMastermindPersonal goal-setting and written planning practicesDaily mantras and meditation ritualsWhiteboard strategic planningNotable Quotes:“The past is the past. The past doesn't equal the future.” - Michael Grandjean“You have to change your story … If you’re living in a shitty story, you’re going to stay in a shitty story.” - Michael Grandjean ”When you're in the bottom you can't see the top. And that's the hardest part of trying to figure out how to get out of it.” - Michael Grandjean “We are not meant to walk through this world alone. Humanity is not meant to walk through this world alone.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“Luck is labour under correct knowledge” - Dwayne KerriganMichael Grandjean is a serial entrepreneur whose journey from Navy corpsman to construction industry leader exemplifies the American spirit of perseverance and reinvention. His story isn't just about building businesses, it's about getting back up, learning from failure, and proving that resilience isn't just surviving the fall, but using it as a foundation for what comes next.Links:Website: itsmissioncritical.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big.mikeg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgrandjean Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this candid and powerful conversation, Michael Grandjean joins Dwayne Kerrigan to share the real story behind his rise, collapse, and rebuilding as an entrepreneur who led with heart—and paid a steep price for it.From early service as a volunteer firefighter and Navy corpsman to building a $25M remediation company, Michael reflects on the leadership blind spots that quietly dismantled his business: avoiding confrontation, ignoring early warning signs, and letting emotion override structure and accountability.He opens up about losing everything, the humility required to face hard truths, and the moment that changed his trajectory—the realization that even at checkmate, the king still has one more move. This episode is a raw masterclass in leadership self-awareness, responsibility, and what it truly takes to rebuild when everything falls apart.Episode Highlights:01:15 — Dwayne introduces Michael and some of his background03:00 — Framing the conversation: collapse, comeback, and leadership through adversity05:00 — Early life experiences that shaped Michael’s instinct to serve and protect others08:00 — How learning-by-doing in the military built confidence, skill, and leadership12:00 — The missed Naval Academy opportunity and how a single point changed his life path16:00 — Discovering the root of his need to “fix everything” through early childhood memory20:00 — How that identity became both a leadership strength and a business liability24:00 — From couch-surfing to starting his first company with borrowed money28:00 — Explosive growth: scaling from zero to $25M and building teams that drove success35:00 — Hiring high-accountability leaders and why standards matter more than likability42:00 — The beginning of complacency and losing focus after reaching the “top”48:00 — Major projects fail, millions lost, and the cost of avoiding confrontation55:00 — Hard truths: personal blind spots, delayed decisions, and leadership responsibility01:05:00 — The emotional bottom, rebuilding identity, and the realization that “the king still has one more move”01:20:00 — Final reflections on honesty, courage, accountability, and choosing to move forwardKey Takeaways:Leading with heart is powerful, but without boundaries it becomes expensive.Relationships, not brands, carry small and mid-sized businesses.SOPs, structure, and accountability protect leaders from their blind spots.Complacency quietly erodes even successful companies.Leaders must be honest with themselves before they can fix anything else.Even at your lowest point, you still have one more move.Resources Mentioned:Checkmate: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1365025640684229 Tony Robbins – Date With DestinyAwaken the Giant Within (Tony Robbins)MastermindNotable Quotes:“The king still has one more move” - Michael Grandjean“When people show you who they are, believe it.” - Michael Grandjean“The thing that you said that probably is the most important is, absolutely positively being honest with yourself.” - Michael Grandjean“You don't have to be a $20 million business or a 50 or a hundred million dollars business to be successful. That's not the definition of success.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“There's not a single rich dude, I don't know, that wouldn't give all his money for having health.” - Dwayne KerriganMichael Grandjean is a serial entrepreneur whose journey from Navy corpsman to construction industry leader exemplifies the American spirit of perseverance and reinvention. His story isn't just about building businesses, it's about getting back up, learning from failure, and proving that resilience isn't just surviving the fall, but using it as a foundation for what comes next.Links:Website: itsmissioncritical.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/big.mikeg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgrandjean Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

Part Two of the Best Of 2025 series brings together some of the most impactful leadership, mindset, and business insights shared on The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast this year. This curated collection highlights defining moments from seasoned executives, founders, and operators who have navigated growth, failure, succession, identity shifts, and reinvention at every stage of their careers.Across these clips, listeners hear honest reflections on making unpopular but necessary decisions, balancing intensity with elegance in leadership, evolving career horizons, and knowing when to step forward—or step aside. The episode explores entrepreneurial thinking inside both startups and large organizations, the power of conviction over persuasion, and why great leadership is rooted in process, accountability, and self-awareness rather than blame.This Best Of episode also dives into legacy thinking: building multi-generational companies, transitioning leadership roles, redefining success beyond ego, and discovering fulfillment through contribution rather than achievement alone. From mindset and marketing to succession planning and service-driven purpose, Part Two captures the wisdom that emerges only through lived experience.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:34 - Introduction2:53- France Margaret Bélanger05:13 - Ron Tite06:50 - Jason Castellan09:54 - Karl Tabbakh13:15 - Jeni Hott16:26 - Swish Goswami17:55 - Mark Bradley19:36 - Jim Ritter21:51 - Irfan Rajabali24:43 - Rod Khleif27:18 - Vaneli Martinov31:50 - Scott ClaryKEY TAKEAWAYS:*Conviction gives leaders the courage to act when approval is uncertain.*Strong leaders balance intensity with elegance, standards with emotional control.*Career growth should widen future opportunities, not narrow them.*Identity and ego can quietly sabotage fulfillment if left unchecked.*Sustainable success requires planning for succession long before it feels necessary.*Authority and clarity outperform persuasion and desperation in marketing and leadership.*Happiness comes from progress, contribution, and growth—not from hitting a single goal.NOTABLE QUOTES:“You should never achieve a big goal without having other goals lined up behind it” - Rod Khleif“What gives you the courage to make those tough decisions … you have the conviction that it’s the right decision ultimately” - France Margaret Bélanger “I see a problem, I think deeply about it, and I come up with a solution, and act on it” - Swish Goswami“When I’m no longer being challenged as a leader, this is where I think ok, what should I be doing next?” - Karl Tabbakh“I’ve got a solution that works and I know it’s here for them. That conviction comes through as leadership.” - Jeni HottConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

This Best Of episode of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast brings together some of the most powerful, human, and perspective-shifting moments from recent conversations—highlighting the inner work that fuels resilience, fulfillment, and sustainable success.Across these standout clips, Dwayne and his guests explore the quiet transformations that happen beneath the surface: reframing everyday frustrations into gratitude, redefining identity after loss or transition, and understanding how meaning—not circumstances—shapes our experience of life and leadership.Listeners will hear deeply personal reflections on illness, sobriety, scarcity and abundance, self-belief, and the courage required to evolve beyond old identities. From learning to “get from” experiences instead of merely getting through them, to recognizing that progress creates happiness and balance—not extremes—creates longevity, this episode weaves together the wisdom that resonates long after the moment passes.This Best Of collection serves as both a reminder and a reset: fulfillment isn’t waiting at a destination. It’s found in the journey, in presence, perspective, and the daily choices that shape who we become.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 0:00:32 - Introduction03:22 - Jessica Janzen05:52 - Master Co09:34 - Molly Bloom12:02 - Tod Melnyk15:10 - Emily Williams16:56 - Mara Dorne19:33 - Alvin Brown22:55 - Jaime McKenna25:52 - Rich Diviney29:09 - John Karpov31:16 - Alan Stein Jr.34:04 - Heather MoyseKEY TAKEAWAYS:Perspective can transform frustration into gratitude.Identity drives behavior; what you place after “I am” shapes your choices.You are not your thoughts, emotions, or circumstances — you are the observer of them.Growth comes from introspection and learning from experiences, not just getting through them.Failure becomes lighter when reframed as information, not identity.Sustainable high performance requires balance, not extremes.The journey itself—not the destination—is where fulfillment lives.NOTABLE QUOTES:“We find certainty in some of the smallest things, and that certainty is what gives us purpose.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“You’re not the emotion. It was created by you.” - Master Co“If you don’t get from an experience, you’re bound to repeat it over and over again.” - Alvin Brown“Let go of things and trust the process” - Emily Brown“When you feel good on the inside, you look good on the outside, you perform better” - Mara DorneConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this special Q&A leadership session, Dwayne Kerrigan brings forward one of his most personal and powerful teachings yet—an unfiltered look at problem-solving, decision-making, emotional mastery, strategic planning, and the rituals that shape high-performance leaders.Responding to 51 listener questions, Dwayne breaks down the “three pillars of progress,” the psychological layers of every problem, why decision-making is a muscle, and how fear, uncertainty, and overwhelm quietly sabotage performance.He shares the exact rituals he has used for decades—from weekly solitude planning to identity-based scheduling—and the transformative practice he credits with changing his life: think time.This episode is a masterclass in intentional living and high-performance leadership, blending mindset, structure, neuroscience, and real-world business wisdom. If you’re navigating fast-moving environments, leading teams, or trying to build a more purposeful life, this conversation gives you a proven roadmap forward.Key Takeaways:Decision-making is a muscle—if you don’t practice small decisions with process and ritual, big decisions will always overwhelm you.Your focus determines your emotional life—the meaning you attach to events shapes long-term joy or suffering.Rituals create identity and outcomes—weekly solitude planning, think time, and identity-based scheduling produce clarity and momentum.Strategic thinking requires cadence—yearly visioning, quarterly reviews, weekly planning, and daily recalibration.AI will disrupt faster than expected—leaders must systemize processes now to survive the shift.Self-love, vulnerability, and forgiveness are essential ingredients for emotional mastery and better decision-making.Quotes:“Decision making is a muscle .. and it's a skill set. And often times where we struggle is this area of making the tough and difficult decisions.”“What you ritualized in practice in private is rewarded in public.”“The business side of things should be a game. I mean, it should be fun most of the time.”"What is going to make you a happier and more joyful person, is attaching a different meaning to the events that happen in your life.”Resources Mentioned:Tony Robbins – “Three Pillars of Progress,” Date With Destiny program, life-planning philosophyStephen Covey – prioritization framework (A/B/C method)Waking Up App (Sam Harris) – meditation and mindfulnessChatGPT (Teams) – referenced as part of Dwayne’s business infrastructureSOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) – foundational to AI-based workflow agentsIdentity-based scheduling – Dwayne’s personal system (Chairman, Husband, Father, Student, etc.)Audio Timestamps:00:00 – How meaning, not outcomes, determines happiness and fulfillment.01:00 – Welcome, context for the live Q&A format, and session overview.02:00 – Framing the biggest listener questions around decisions, problems, and leadership.03:00 – The three pillars of progress and why focusing on problems makes them grow.05:00 – The three levels of a problem: external, internal, and psychological.07:00 – Why fear, uncertainty, and overwhelm stop people from making decisions.09:00 – Decision-making as a muscle and the importance of rituals for small decisions.12:00 – Managing overwhelm through physiology, breathing, and better questions.16:00 – Focus, meaning, and how emotional patterns shape leadership behavior.23:00 – Strategic thinking rituals: yearly visioning, quarterly reviews, and weekly planning.30:00 – Identity-based scheduling and prioritizing what truly matters.37:00 – Think time as a leadership superpower and how to train your mind.43:00 – Accountability, scorecards, and building high-performance teams.47:00 – Thriving in fast-moving environments through cadence, communication, and clarity.53:00 – AI, SOPs, and preparing organizations for rapid technological change.01:00:00 – Gamification, morning rituals, and energizing daily performance.01:05:00 – Shifting from goal-setting to road mapping and intentional living.01:08:00 – Awareness, vulnerability, self-love, and forgiveness as leadership foundations.01:12:00 – Final reflections, gratitude, and invitation for feedback.Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part Two of this high-impact conversation, Dwayne continues his deep dive with global business strategist and Success Story Podcast host Scott Clary, who breaks down exactly why attention is the foundational currency of modern business — and why companies that fail to adapt will be overtaken by those who move quickly with media, content, and AI.Scott unpacks the psychology of why leaders resist content, the identity fear behind “not wanting to suck,” and how legacy businesses risk losing everything because they’re still marketing for 2005 while technology is sprinting into 2025.Dwayne and Scott explore real-world examples—from lawn-care companies to B2B manufacturers to billion-dollar firms—and show how even the most “unsexy” industries can dominate simply by capturing attention and building trust at scale.The conversation expands into AI disruption, the collapse of traditional SEO, the rise of generative search, modern buyer behavior, shortening sales cycles through content, and the undeniable compounding power of personal brand.This episode is a wake-up call to business owners everywhere: adapt now, or be replaced by those who do.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Media equals attention and attention drives every business outcome. 02:00 – The real starting point for content: sucking at first and learning through repetition.04:30 – Scott unpacks why universal business principles apply to content creation. 06:00 – Identity, fear, and why business owners avoid content creation.07:00 – The widening gap between tech adopters and those still resisting digital change. 09:00 – Legacy vs. legitimacy: content won’t damage your reputation, but irrelevance will. 11:00 – Content isn't just video - newsletters, audio, and niche education all count. 13:00 – Niche creators winning with “unsexy” businesses. 17:00 – Example content strategies.20:00 – Why Scott studies fast-growing creators - not the biggest creators. 23:00 – The explosive business outcomes possible when you master content (“not a 1x or 2x”). 27:00 – Why even billion-dollar CEOs must build trust through media. 33:00 – How content accelerates B2B sales cycles and increases closing ratios. 37:00 – Generative search is replacing Google.43:00 – Scott breaks down the KPI stack: retention, shares, watch time, and qualified leads. 48:00 – Essential tools: ChatGPT, Claude, Opus Pro, CapCut, etc., and what they’re best for. 50:00 – Hiring global talent.56:00 – The coming AI household-assistant revolution.01:02:00 – SEO collapse and the rise of creator-driven education and media networks. 01:08:00 – Entrepreneurs have already done hard things - this is simply the next one. 01:10:00 – Passion is the outcome of mastery, not the prerequisite. 01:11:00 – How older leaders can partner with younger digital natives.KEY TAKEAWAYSAttention is the gateway to trust, and trust drives every buying decision.Content doesn’t mean dancing online; it means choosing a medium you can stick with.AI and generative search are rewriting SEO overnight.Content massively increases sales velocity and close rates.Small businesses have the most to gain from adopting a media strategy.Entrepreneurship is staying alive long enough for your strategy to work. QUOTES:"Media is attention. From the beginning of time, attention and influence is what drives people to make decisions." - Scott Clary" Entrepreneurship is a game of staying alive as long as possible until it works." - Scott Clary" I've always found that like you, you become passionate through mastery, through success, through figuring things out." - Scott Clary" People tie their identity to their business and if they try to go and do content and it sucks, it's a reflection that they suck and they don't want to put themselves out there." - Dwayne Kerrigan" I believe that people shift through the power of story. I think it's the greatest way for us to learn because it allows us to put ourselves into other people's shoes." - Dwayne KerriganRESOURCES MENTIONEDChatGPT (OpenAI) – ideation, scripting, research assistance.Claude (Anthropic) – content development and refinement.Opus Pro – turns long-form video into short-form clips.CapCut – simple editing tool for social video.Substack – newsletters and niche written content.Beehiiv – newsletter growth platform.Upwork – for finding global editors and creators (Scott’s preferred starting point).HubSpot – case study for shifting from SEO to media networks.Gary Vaynerchuk / VaynerMedia – example of media-first business building.Alex Hormozi – example of massive content-driven product launches.Scott Clary is a dynamic entrepreneur, investor, and author. He hosts the Success Story podcast, where he has candid conversations with some of the most prolific business & thought leaders in the world. Links:Website: https://www.scottdclary.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/scottdclary Podcast: https://www.successstorypodcast.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scottdclarypage/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/scottdclary   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdclary Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this conversation, Dwayne sits down with entrepreneur and creator Scott Clary, host of the Success Story Podcast with 30M+ downloads. Scott opens up about his unlikely path from a government-family upbringing to becoming a media-first entrepreneur, the early exposure that ignited his drive, and why curiosity and tenacity can outperform almost anything. Scott walks through how small companies create the best “entrepreneurial classrooms,” why every creator should think like a founder, and how success hinges on defining your personal North Star before you start sprinting. The episode dives deep into AI disruption, content strategy, internal vs. external locus of control, personal branding, and how businesses of every size can prepare for the next wave of transformation. Scott offers tactical clarity on building a media-first business, testing content efficiently, disrupting yourself before the market does, and why attention—sustained over time—is the most valuable commercial asset any entrepreneur can build. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS03:53 - Scott's telecom background  08:22 - How working at a small company provides exposure to all aspects of business 14:27 - The importance of curiosity as a foundational entrepreneurial skill 17:25 - Warning: Be careful what you pursue - success requires understanding your true goals 23:25 - Finding your North Star: Be rigid in goals but flexible in execution 28:10 - Identifying what energizes you through trial and error 32:33 - Building a business while working full-time: The side hustle strategy 38:15 - How AI is disrupting businesses and the need for constant self-disruption 43:15 - The four types of leverage: Capital, technology, people, and media 51:00 - The power of AI to make individuals 10-100x more productive 01:06:30 - Internal vs external locus of control and taking ownership 01:13:30 - Content creation strategy: Testing ideas at scale on forgiving platforms 01:27:26 - How media and AI are already transforming traditional industries like restaurants KEY TAKEAWAYS Define your North Star before you start running Many people pursue success without clarity on what they actually want — a lifestyle business, a scalable company, privacy, or fame. If you have tenacity and skill, you’ll eventually succeed… so make sure you're climbing the right mountain. Curiosity is the foundation of career acceleration Scott attributes almost everything in his career to relentless curiosity — the willingness to ask questions, learn widely, and self-educate. AI won’t replace people but people who use AI will replace people who don’t The companies thriving in this era are disrupting themselves before someone else does. Every role can be up-leveled 10x–100x with the right tools and mindset. Media is the ultimate leverage Capital, technology, people… and media. If you don’t build a personal or company brand, someone in your industry eventually will — and they will take market share. Content is business R&D Social content is the best testing ground for messaging. Use it to refine your voice, validate ideas, influence sales scripts, and improve marketing before spending ad dollars. Attention over time creates trust The companies, creators, and leaders who show up consistently earn trust — which compounds into opportunity. Internal locus of control is a superpower Entrepreneurs who take ownership — good or bad — create their own luck and navigate volatility more effectively. QUOTES From Scott Clary: “If you have the right skill set and you have the right tenacity, whatever you go after, you will find a way to become successful at that thing.”  “Be rigid in where you want to end up, but very flexible in how you get there.”  “Attention over time builds trust.”  “The best employees are entrepreneurs, just in a different season of their life.”  “If you don’t disrupt yourself, someone else will come along and take your lunch.”  From Dwayne Kerrigan: “Every bad idea I’ve ever had started with a good idea at the time.”  “Be careful what you wish for  because you might actually get it.”  “Pros get paid to practice.”  Scott Clary is a dynamic entrepreneur, investor, and author. He hosts the Success Story podcast, where he has candid conversations with some of the most prolific business & thought leaders in the world. Links:Website: https://www.scottdclary.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/scottdclary Podcast: https://www.successstorypodcast.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scottdclarypage/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/scottdclary   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdclary Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Dwayne Kerrigan and France Margaret Bélanger, President of Sports & Entertainment for the Montreal Canadiens, go deep into the personal side of leadership, discussing courage, conviction, and composure.France Margaret shares how calm strength and self-awareness guide her through high-stakes decisions, what she’s learned about emotional control in negotiation, and why courage means making the right choice even when it’s unpopular. Together, she and Dwayne explore what it truly means to lead with heart, to face criticism with elegance, and to never let labels define who you are.Whether you’re leading a team, a business, or your own personal evolution, authenticity, self-mastery, and grace under pressure are key.Episode Highlights00:00 – Making the right decision even when it’s unpopular.03:00 – Balancing intensity with standards.05:00 – Lessons from France’s father.07:00 – The power of calm, and why letting anger take over gives control to others.09:00 – France on staying poised as a woman in leadership without labeling herself.11:00 – When to walk away from conflict and preserve professionalism.12:00 – The balance between courage, compassion, and tolerance for “the gray.”15:00 – Political parallels, and why real leadership requires vision and unity.17:00 – Inside the Canadiens rebuild.25:00 – Leadership lessons from rebuilding a legacy brand under scrutiny.33:00 – How Jeff Molson’s bold decisions shaped new success.41:00 – France recounts how she stepped into leadership unexpectedly.47:00 – Dwayne connects France’s story to business owners everywhere.49:00 – Navigating gender in business. 57:00 – “No excuses.” Dwayne and France on identity, congruence, and living your values.01:05:00 – Closing reflections on family, legacy, and leading with heart.Notable Quotes"The minute that you, France, is getting mad or angry or whatever, you lost. Might as well give up right now because this other person that managed to get you in that position, won." - France Margaret Bélanger" Hopefully we do things elegantly, right. Firmly, with determination, but elegantly." - France Margaret Bélanger "You show up as who you are, and that's what people will know about you, and that's what people will talk about you. You gotta be authentic and honest to who you are" - France Margaret Bélanger" It's the ultimate control. If somebody can influence your emotion into, especially into anger, you're done. They are now in control of you." - Dwayne Kerrigan “The most powerful force in the human psyche is to remain congruent with how you identify yourself.” - Dwayne KerriganKey TakeawaysControl Your Emotions: The moment you react in anger, you lose your influence.Elegance Wins: Deliver hard messages with composure and respect.Authenticity Over Labels: Show up as yourself; skill and preparation speak louder than gender.Rebuilding Takes Vision and Grit:True progress comes from honest assessment and bold change.Stay Grounded in Values: Your identity and integrity are your anchors under pressure.Resources MentionedThe Rebuild – Behind-the-scenes documentary series on the Montreal CanadiensJeff Molson, Jeff Gorton, Kent Hughes, and Martin St. Louis – leadership and culture case studyNHL Board of Governors and Executive Inclusion CouncilFrance Margaret Bélanger is President, Sports and Entertainment at Groupe CH since 2020, which includes the Montreal Canadiens, the Laval Rocket, evenko and L’Équipe Spectra. She joined the organization in 2013 as Senior Vice-President and Chief Legal Officer, and has held several executive positions over the years.France Margaret is the first woman to sit on the Executive Committee of the Montreal Canadiens in the club’s 104-year history and also the first woman to lead the organization.Links:Website: https://www.nhl.com/canadiens/team/france-margaret-belanger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/france-margaret-belanger-833b6b41Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadiensmtl Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/canadiensmtl/?hl=fr Spectra: https://www.instagram.com/spectramusique/?hl=frEvenko: https://www.instagram.com/evenko/?hl=frConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this episode of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast, France Margaret Bélanger, President of Sports and Entertainment for the Montreal Canadiens, shares her extraordinary journey from corporate law to leading one of Canada’s most iconic sports and entertainment organizations.France shares how she transitioned from a partner at Stikeman Elliott to the front office of the Canadiens, what she’s learned about negotiation, culture, and leadership, and how she balances motherhood, resilience, and professional excellence in a high-pressure industry. France’s stories of her family, her team, and her leadership philosophy will resonate deeply with anyone striving to lead with both courage and compassion.Key Takeaways1. Preparation Creates Confidence. Knowing your material and your mission lets you show up calm, credible, and composed.2. Listening Wins Negotiations. Speak less, observe more. Real insight comes from awareness, not control.3. Surround Yourself with Excellence. Great leaders aren’t afraid to hire people smarter than themselves.4. Culture Is the Standard You Set. When “getting it done” becomes cultural DNA, excellence follows naturally.5. Grace and Grit Can Co-Exist. Authentic leadership balances empathy with accountability.Quotes“If you talk all the time, you don’t have time to listen.” - France Margaret Bélanger“I prefer a mistake to an excuse. A mistake is a mistake.” - France Margaret Bélanger“Know your outcome, stack experience, and surround yourself with the best.” - Dwayne Kerrigan“Fear shows up as easy. Nobody likes the label fear, but that’s what it is. And fear shows up as an excuse.” - Dwayne KerriganFrance Margaret Bélanger is President, Sports and Entertainment at Groupe CH since 2020, which includes the Montreal Canadiens, the Laval Rocket, evenko and L’Équipe Spectra. She joined the organization in 2013 as Senior Vice-President and Chief Legal Officer, and has held several executive positions over the years.France Margaret is the first woman to sit on the Executive Committee of the Montreal Canadiens in the club’s 104-year history and also the first woman to lead the organization.Links:Website: https://www.nhl.com/canadiens/team/france-margaret-belanger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/france-margaret-belanger-833b6b41Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadiensmtl Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/canadiensmtl/?hl=fr Spectra: https://www.instagram.com/spectramusique/?hl=frEvenko: https://www.instagram.com/evenko/?hl=frConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of his conversation with Dwayne Kerrigan, creative powerhouse Ron Tite dives deep into the execution side of belief-driven business. Ron breaks down how great companies find alignment with what they think, do, and say - and why most fail when they overthink, overreact, or chase the next shiny thing.This episode explores how to balance creativity with discipline, lead with integrity, and build brands that truly earn trust. Ron’s frameworks and real-world examples (from Dell to Wealthsimple) will reshape how you think about growth, culture, and storytelling in your own business and career.Highlights:00:00 – Your brand isn’t just a color palette04:15 – Balancing structure with innovation10:40 – Aligning through recruiting, training, and compensation13:15 – The short-term trap of chasing sales and ignoring foundations16:00 – Ron shares a personal story that reframes purpose and perspective22:00 – Breaking down what makes a great brand28:15 – The Dell origin story and how storytelling drives strategy and culture32:40 – Applying the Think. Do. Say. formula to everyday decision making35:00 – Identifying and removing your own barriers through honest self-reflectionKey Takeaways:Your Brand Isn’t Just An Aesthetic - True brands align their belief, behavior, and communication - not just colors and logos.Balance Creativity with Consistency - You need both the “concept car” for innovation and the “assembly line” for profit.Culture Must Reflect Belief - If you believe in collaboration or honesty, it has to exist inside your organization too.Tell Future Stories - Vision isn’t a statement, it’s a story of where you’re going and how you’ll get there.Face the Hard Truths - Leaders must ask the obvious questions and own their barriers to growth.Quotes:“ A great brand has a core purpose, a fundamental belief that's behind it.” - Ron Tite“ If you're all concept car, and all ideas, and all innovation, you go bankrupt. If you're all execution, you're all assembly line, you become irrelevant.” - Ron Tite “Advertising is really just a tax on people who don’t have a great product.” - Ron Tite“I’ve seen so many business owners torpedo their business because they wanted something new and flashier.” - Dwayne KerriganResources Mentioned:Everyone’s An Artist - Or At Least They Should Be - by Ron TiteThink Do Say - by Ron TiteThe Purpose of Purpose - by Ron TiteCase Studies: Wealthsimple, Dell Computers, Church+State AgencyRon Tite is an entrepreneur, speaker, and best-selling author. He has been a creative director for some of the world’s most respected brands including Air France, DoorDash, Evian, Google, Intel, Microsoft, and Volvo. He’s the founder and chief strategy officer of Church+State, co-founder of advertising holding company Group 219, and an investor/ advisor to Wavy, the culture OS for distributed teams. He’s the best-selling author of 3 books: Everyone’s An Artist - Or At Least They Should Be (HarperCollins, 2016), Think Do Say (Page Two, 2019), and The Purpose of Purpose (Page Two, 2025).Links:Website: https://rontite.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574805686652 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rontiteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rontite LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rontite/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/rontiteConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagram Linked InWebsite Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

On this episode of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast, Dwayne is joined by Ron Tite - award-winning creative director, author, comedian, and founder of Church+State - for a conversation that unpacks the real meaning of purpose in business.Ron has spent decades helping global brands like Google, Walmart, and Microsoft align what they believe with how they grow. In this candid conversation, he explains why most companies get their purpose wrong, how to articulate what truly drives your business, and why belief - not branding - is the foundation of sustainable success.Ron shares tangible frameworks straight from his latest book, The Purpose of Purpose, and shows how every entrepreneur can stop chasing trends and start building a company rooted in integrity, clarity, and long-term impact.Highlights:00:00 –Three-line purpose formula01:00 – Introduction03:15 – On balancing creativity and business06:10 – Lessons from Best Buy’s leadership08:40 – What business’ can learn from artists10:15 – Sacrificing ideals leads to a loss of integrity15:00 – Belief helps drive what you sell and how you grow19:00 – The five modern business constituents27:00 – Ron expands on his three-line formula29:00 – The Savannah Bananas example: reinventing baseball by redefining the rules35:30 – Vision is good, purpose is betterKey Takeaways:Purpose Is Practical, Not Promotional - It’s not about charity statements, it’s about aligning belief with how you make money.Focus on the Ecosystem - Shareholders, customers, employees, suppliers, and communities all define modern success.Stop Copying Competitors - Innovation begins when you stop painting “pink” just because everyone else does.Belief Drives Growth - Purpose clarifies where your next product, hire, and customer come from.Integrity Over Imitation - The moment you sacrifice your ideals for sales, you lose both.Quotes:“Purpose is a fundamental belief that drives what you sell and how you grow.” - Ron Tite “A belief and a purpose is strategically linked to where you make your money.” - Ron Tite“The second I sacrifice my ideals and my pursuit of what I think is true, to match up with your desire and what you want to buy, I have lost all my integrity and I have no more business.” - Ron Tite“Business people can get in their head, and there’s that saying - once you’re in your head, you’re dead.” - Dwayne KerriganResources Mentioned:Everyone’s An Artist - Or At Least They Should Be - by Ron TiteThink Do Say - by Ron TiteThe Purpose of Purpose - by Ron TiteSavannah Bananas (Jesse Cole) case studyRon Tite is an entrepreneur, speaker, and best-selling author. He has been a creative director for some of the world’s most respected brands including Air France, DoorDash, Evian, Google, Intel, Microsoft, and Volvo. He’s the founder and chief strategy officer of Church+State, co-founder of advertising holding company Group 219, and an investor/ advisor to Wavy, the culture OS for distributed teams. He’s the best-selling author of 3 books: Everyone’s An Artist - Or At Least They Should Be (HarperCollins, 2016), Think Do Say (Page Two, 2019), and The Purpose of Purpose (Page Two, 2025).Links:Website: https://rontite.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574805686652 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rontiteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rontite LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rontite/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/rontite Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan FacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.