The Climb: Leadership Development and Confident Leader Podcast

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of podcasts, The Climb: Leadership Development and Confident Leader is the premier destination for high-stakes leadership development. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Krystal Kohlberg (Mental Performance Coach & Human Design Expert) to dismantle the "one-size-fits-all" corporate leadership model.For NextGen leaders, career advancement requires more than just mimicry—it requires an understanding of your unique mental performance blueprint. We explore the critical mindset shifts needed to treat corporate leadership with the same intentional preparation as professional sports. We reveal how to identify your "Human Design," create a strategic executive "off-season," and harness mental preparation to build unshakeable confidence.STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR THE ACCIDENTAL MANAGER:04:12 – The Human Design Advantage: Why self-awareness of your unique "wiring" is the key to effortless Confident Leadership.08:26 – The Preparation Gap: Why the corporate world fails where sports succeed—and how to close the gap in your Leadership Development.13:54 – The Executive "Off-Season": The strategic necessity of intentional rest to prevent burnout and ensure Career Advancement.17:01 – Mental Performance Mastery: Moving from accidental action to intentional, personalized mental preparation.THE CLIMB™ FRAMEWORK INSIGHT:This session highlights C – Cultivate Your Mindset and L – Leverage Your Strengths. Krystal Kohlberg demonstrates that you cannot Leverage (L) what you do not understand; Human Design acts as the mirror for your internal strengths. By Cultivating a Mindset (C) rooted in sports psychology, leaders can stop copying others and start executing from their own "Flow State." This shift from "perfect action" to "imperfect, intentional action" is the ultimate catalyst for Leadership Development.ABOUT GUEST: KRYSTAL KOHLBERGKrystal Kohlberg is a Mental Performance Coach and Human Design Reader who specializes in helping leaders and teams create sustainable, aligned ways of working. With a deep background in sport and performance psychology, Krystal blends scientific rigor with soulful self-awareness to help her clients achieve clarity and connection. Her work is a direct challenge to outdated, high-burnout leadership models, offering instead a path to success honored by how each person is uniquely wired to thrive. Explore Krystal’s mental performance blueprints at krystalkohlberg.com and follow her daily insights on human design via Instagram @krystal.kohlberg.ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters, Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun County and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [⁠https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/⁠] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [⁠https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart⁠]🌐Official Website: ⁠www.rahulkaransharma.com⁠📈Connect: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/⁠🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders #humandesign

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of podcasts, The Confident Leader is the premier resource for leadership development and executive growth. In this episode of The Climb, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins certified mediator Dana Carter to discuss how to navigate the legal and emotional complexities of corporate discrimination.Is your workplace culture thriving, or is there a "silent killer" of productivity hiding in plain sight? Workplace discrimination and unresolved conflict are the primary roadblocks to career advancement for NextGen leaders. We explore the mindset shifts necessary to lead with kindness, the power of meditation, and how proactive leadership development can rescue a toxic culture before it’s too late.STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR THE NEXTGEN LEADER:04:11 – Identifying the Invisible: How discrimination often goes unnoticed until it impacts the bottom line.06:40 – The Leader’s Mandate: Why dismissing employee complaints is a failure of Confident Leadership.09:33 – Culture Architecture: Using workshops and conflict resolution to foster Leadership Development.11:53 – Strategic Self-Defense: Advice for employees on documentation and seeking professional mediation for Career Advancement.THE CLIMB™ FRAMEWORK INSIGHT:This session highlights I – Integrate Purpose & Vision. Dana’s journey proves that when a leader integrates social justice and kindness into their core vision, they don’t just resolve conflicts—they Magnify Their Impact (M). For any NextGen leader, mastering the "Mindset Shift" from defensive management to empathetic mediation is the key to building a sustainable Legacy (B).About Guest: Dana CarterDana Carter is a certified Mediator, a dedicated Social Justice Advocate, and the founder of Carter’s Pre-Court Services. With a career rooted in the pursuit of equity and workplace restoration, Dana specializes in helping individuals and organizations navigate the complex legal and emotional landscapes of discrimination and corporate conflict. Join her Facebook group page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Carters-Pre-Court-Legal-Service-61557945547282/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters,Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun County and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [⁠https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/⁠] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [⁠https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart⁠]🌐Official Website: ⁠www.rahulkaransharma.com⁠📈Connect: [⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/]⁠🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders #workplacediscrimination

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of podcasts, The Climb Leadership Development and Confident Leader is the premier resource for leadership development and executive growth. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Jennifer Hawkins (Founder of Launched Performance) to discuss the transition from technical expert to enterprise strategist.For NextGen leaders, career advancement requires more than skill—it requires the mindset shifts necessary to lead without authority. We explore how Jennifer managed high-stakes operations across seven states while facing profound personal challenges, proving that confident leadership is a design of resilience. During our conversation, we reveal how to break organizational silos and lead "up, across, and out" to build a legacy that transcends the boardroom.STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR THE ENTERPRISE STRATEGIST:02:29 – The Legacy Blueprint: Why Purpose is the Foundation of Confident Leadership05:53 – Mindset Shifts: Maintaining Performance Standards During High-Stakes Personal Challenges07:36 – Organizational Architecture: Breaking Down Silos to Ensure NextGen Leaders Succeed13:26 – Leading Up, Across, and Out: The Essential Skills for Career Advancement28:02 – The CLIMB Connection: Navigating Leadership Stages from Invisible to InfluentialTHE CLIMB™ FRAMEWORK INSIGHT:This episode is a masterclass in C – Cultivate Your Mindset and B – Build Your Legacy. Jennifer Hawkins proves that confident leadership is forged in the fire of personal adversity. By implementing critical mindset shifts (C), she turned underperforming centers into top-tier successes. Her "SHIFT Method" perfectly complements the CLIMB™ Framework, showing NextGen leaders how to break silos and Magnify Your Impact (M) to ensure a lasting professional Legacy (B).ABOUT GUEST: JENNIFER HAWKINSJennifer Hawkins is the founder of Launched Performance, a premier leadership advisory firm specializing in succession planning and enterprise-level strategy. With a career spanning five industries, Jennifer is known for turning the worst-performing operations into top 20% performers, even during economic recessions. She famously led blood banking operations across seven states while managing a family health crisis from a hospital room. Today, she equips NextGen leaders with the strategy, confidence, and resilience needed for rapid career advancement.🌐 Connect with Jennifer: launchedperformance.comABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters, Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun Chambers and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [⁠https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/⁠] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [⁠https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart⁠]🌐Official Website: ⁠www.rahulkaransharma.com⁠📈Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify and Apple#JenniferHawkins #theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders #mindsetshifts #CareerAdvancement

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of podcasts, The Climb: Confident Leader podcast bridges the gap between technical expertise and executive legacy. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Roxanne Chaput (Modern-Day Oracle & Leadership Strategist) to explore the frontier of "Conscious Leadership."Leadership is not a title; it is an energetic impact. We dismantle the "Profit-Only" paradox and reveal how human-centered leadership is the ultimate multiplier for productivity. STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR THE CONSCIOUS LEADER:02:05 – The Catalyst: Turning Near-Death Experiences into a Global Mission of Service04:44 – The Human-Centered Shift: Why Valuing People is the Secret to Scalable Morale09:42 – The Multiplier Mindset: Moving from "Management" to Empowering Authentic Growth14:04 – Radical Self-Awareness: The Leader’s Journey to Inner Mastery and Accountability19:54 – The Path to Healing: Overcoming Perfectionism to Reclaim Your Leadership WorthTHE CLIMB™ FRAMEWORK INSIGHT:This session is a masterclass in C – Cultivate Your Mindset and I – Integrate Purpose & Vision. Roxanne highlights that perfectionism is often a "Worth Gap" that hinders a leader's ability to Leverage Strengths (L). By doing the inner work to heal and cultivate a conscious mindset, leaders can Integrate Purpose (I) that goes beyond quarterly earnings to create a lasting Legacy (B) of sovereign liberty and human reunification.About Guest: Roxanne ChaputRoxanne Chaput is a globally renowned leader in conscious leadership and an embodied oracle for change agents and disruptive heart leaders. She specializes in guiding intentional path-cutters to birth universal liberty and human reunification through her work. Roxanne is dedicated to returning humanity to a state of sovereign fulfillment through land-based and elemental creational kingdoms.🌐 Learn more about her work: theilluminationretreat.comABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters,Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun County and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [⁠https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/⁠] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [⁠https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart⁠]🌐Official Website: ⁠www.rahulkaransharma.com⁠📈Connect: [⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/]⁠🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify and Apple#theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders #ConsciousLeadership #HumanCentered

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast is the definitive global strategy for mastering Executive Presence and cross-border leadership. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Racquel Maye David to dissect Media Visibility and the mindset shifts required for high-stakes leadership in the DC Metro area and for global executives scaling their influence.How do you transition from being "invisible" in corporate finance to a "Media Queen" commanding international visibility?🧠 In this episode, we explore the Breaking Barriers Framework. For leaders in Washington D.C. and global markets, the challenge of 2026 is moving beyond traditional management into Empowered Visibility.KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR GLOBAL LEADERS:00:00 – The Global Blueprint for Visibility: Introducing Racquel Maye David01:42 – Solving the "Invisible Executive" Crisis: Racquel’s Leadership Journey04:25 – Beyond Passive Learning: Why Implementation is the Only Metric for Success09:03 – The Reciprocity Hack: Leveraging Volunteering for Rapid Skill Acquisition12:36 – Breaking Barriers: Shifting Perspectives to Scale Influence Across Borders19:13 – Financial Freedom for Leaders: Diversifying Income and Betting on Yourself27:06 – Strategy Session: How to Measure Success in the Global 0.1%THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT:This episode provides a masterclass in Leveraging Strengths (L) to Magnify Impact (M). Rahul and Racquel discuss why Global Executive Presence requires a strategic inventory of your unique "Warrior" traits. You cannot Magnify your Impact (M) if your leadership brand remains hidden or underutilized. True authority is born when you stop trying to fix weaknesses and instead Leverage your Strengths (L) to step onto the global stage and command visibility.ABOUT OUR GUEST: RACQUEL MAYE DAVIDVisionary TV Producer, Founder of Evolving Eve & Media QueenRacquel Maye David is a transformative force in the media industry, specializing in the intersection of Leadership, Visibility, and Empowerment. As the founder of Evolving Eve and producer of the hit show Breaking Barriers, Racquel has mastered the art of transitioning from a structured corporate career in finance to a high-impact media empire. She is a dedicated mentor who teaches entrepreneurs how to bet on themselves, diversify their income, and implement knowledge for sustainable success.🌐 Connect with Racquel: https://www.evolvedlifenow.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters,Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun County and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart]🌐Official Website: www.rahulkaransharma.com📈Connect: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/]🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #StaffingIndustry #DCLeaders #RahulKaranSharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleader

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Leadership Development and Confident Leader Podcast is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma, this leadership blueprint empowers aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area, while serving a global community of high achievers.Why is conflict avoidance the silent killer of organizational growth? 🛑 In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts leadership expert Julie Holunga to discuss the evolution of the "Career Lattice" and the power of the Titanium Rule.We explore why Attention to Detail is a non-negotiable trust-builder and how Staffing and Tech executives in Northern Virginia can navigate high-stakes conflict constructively. If you are an accidental manager or an executive looking to build a high-performance culture through Strategic Communication, this episode provides the blueprint for your next level of influence.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR THE HIGH-PERFORMANCE LEADER:00:00 – Beyond the Ladder: Navigating the Career Lattice05:48 – Startup Leadership: Lessons from the Frontlines08:52 – The Titanium Rule: Communicating for Maximum Impact12:11 – Conflict Resolution: Why Avoidance is the Real Problem17:20 – Trust Building: The Power of Attention to Detail21:16 – Frameworks for Scaling: Managing Different Leadership Stages25:36 – Cultural IQ: How Global Experiences Shape Local LeadershipTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This conversation highlights the "L" (Leverage Strengths) and "M" (Magnify Impact) pillars. Rahul and Julie discuss how shifting your communication style to meet others' needs (The Titanium Rule) is the ultimate leverage for Executive Presence.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: JULIE HOLUNGAJulie Holunga is a renowned leadership trainer and executive coach who specializes in helping high-potential professionals navigate career transitions and lead with impact. With a background spanning startups and academia, Julie focuses on the "human side" of business—mastering communication, conflict, and trust to drive organizational results. Connect with Julie Holunga 🌐 Official Website: https://www.julieholunga.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results: https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#TheClimbPodcast

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Leadership Development and Confident Leader Podcast is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry.Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma, this leadership blueprint empowers aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area, while serving a global community of high achievers.How do you develop Executive Presence when you don’t have the job title yet? For aspiring leaders in the DC Metro area and staffing industry professionals, the "invisible" ceiling is real.In this episode of The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) and Desiree Galicher (COO of Mentaa) reveal the exact Leadership Mindset shifts needed to command a room, master Self-Regulation, and lead through career transitions or layoffs. Whether you are an accidental manager or a high-potential exec, this is your blueprint for Human-Centered Leadership.🚀 KEY MOMENTS FOR LEADERS:00:00 – The Secret to Leadership Transformation06:08 – Turning a Layoff into a Career Breakthrough09:39 – Pro-Techniques for Projecting Executive Presence12:13 – Influence Without Authority: Leading without a Title17:59 – How Leadership Coaching Scales Tech Startups THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode dives deep into the "C" (Cultivate Mindset) and "I" (Integrate Purpose) pillars of Rahul Karan Sharma’s CLIMB Framework™. To move from an invisible contributor to an influential leader, you must first master internal self-regulation before you can manage external team dynamics.ABOUT GUEST - DESIREE GALICHER🎙️ Meet Désirée Galicher – COO of Mentaa, Career Strategist, Startup Advisor & Mentor. With over 20 years of experience guiding careers and building high-impact teams, Désirée Galicher is a powerhouse when it comes to leadership, growth, and purposeful work. As COO of Mentaa, a coaching platform redefining human connection in the digital age, she blends operational excellence with deep empathy to create spaces where both people and businesses thrive. In this episode, she shares her unfiltered take on leadership in modern work, how to build influence without burnout, and why coaching is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. Connect with Desiree: http://www.linkedin.com/in/desiree-galicherABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier StaffingIndustry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce,Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional LeadershipConsultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com

Why do high-performing women often get passed over for the C-Suite? 🛑 In this episode of The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) interviews Fortune 500 executive turned High-Performance Career Coach, Rosie Zilinskas.We tackle the "Silence Saboteur" and break down the exact Promotion Readiness Roadmap needed to bridge the gap between hard work and high-level recognition. Whether you are an accidental manager or an executive in the Staffing and Tech sectors across Northern Virginia and DC, this episode reveals why Self-Advocacy is the highest-ROI skill in your career toolkit.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR CAREER GROWTH:00:00 – Beyond the Glass Ceiling: Rosie’s Executive Journey05:34 – The Leadership Mindset Shift: From Victim to Visionary08:26 – Why Corporate Women Stagnate (And How to Stop It)11:27 – The Promotion Readiness Roadmap: Step-by-Step Strategy14:43 – The Financial Cost of Staying Quiet: Self-Advocacy 10117:36 – Building Executive Presence Without "Faking It"23:55 – Mission: No Woman Left Behind – Closing the Gender Gap26:54 – Rapid Fire: Daily Habits of High-Performance LeadersTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode centers on Leveraging Strengths (L) and Magnifying Impact (M). Rosie and Rahul discuss why intentional career management is the only way to move from an invisible contributor to an Executive-ready leader.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: ROSIE ZILINSKASRosie Zilinskas is a Certified High-Performance Career Coach and a former Fortune 500 Corporate Executive with 30+ years of experience. She is the founder of No Woman Left Behind, a mission-driven organization dedicated to closing the corporate gender gap. Rosie specializes in helping women master the art of the promotion and develop the Executive Presence required for board-level influence. 🌐 Learn More: https://nowomanleftbehind.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#leadershipdevelopment #organizationaldevelopment #leadershippodcast #careerclarity #changeleadership #leadershipshipTransformation #aspiringleaders #theclimbframework #rahulkaransharma #nextgenleadership #confidentleader #workplaceculture #KeynoteSpeaker #aiforleaders #futureofwork #ai

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Why do high achievers hit a ceiling of stagnation despite their success? 🛑 In this episode of The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) hosts David Prosper, a renowned Clarity Architect and author of Finding Clarity.We break down the C5 Model for Leadership Clarity—a strategic framework designed to help accidental managers and staffing industry executives in the DC Metro area escape confusion and lead with intentionality. If you are a leader in Northern Virginia facing high-stakes pressure, this episode provides the roadmap to move from "busy" to "purpose-full."🚀 KEY MOMENTS FOR EXECUTIVE PERFORMANCE:00:00 – Leading from Purpose vs. Popularity06:43 – The Transition: From Young Leader to Clarity Architect11:46 – Solving Fulfillment Gaps in High-Performance Achievers16:39 – The C5 Model: Capacity, Competency, Courage, Connection, Curiosity21:31 – The Purpose-Driven Process: Finding Peace & Prosperity26:31 – Navigating Confusion: Moving from Stagnation to Confidence31:31 – Human-Centered Sales: Using Empathy to Drive ResultsTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This conversation is the embodiment of the "C" (Cultivate Mindset) and "L" (Leverage Strengths) pillars. Rahul and David discuss why Executive Mental Clarity is the non-negotiable foundation for building a Leadership Pipeline that survives disruption.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: DAVID PROSPERDavid Prosper is a premier Clarity Architect, leadership coach, and author of Finding Clarity: Your Guide to Peace, Purpose, and Prosperity. Through his Clarity Catalyst Solutions framework, David helps entrepreneurs and Fortune 500 leaders break free from the "success trap" to design lives of peak performance and internal peace. 🌐 Visit David: https://davidbprosper.com/ 📸 Instagram: @theclarityguy_ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #staffingindustry #DCLeaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #climbleadershipaudit #humancenteredleadership

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council Member), this leadership blueprint is for aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area.How do you transition from a high-stakes corporate role at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to becoming a transformational entrepreneur? In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts Regina Huber, CEO of Transform Your Performance, to break down the mechanics of Heart-Centered Leadership.We explore the power of Conversational Intelligence in building high-trust teams and why the most influential Staffing and Tech executives lead through Self-Leadership rather than formal titles. If you are an accidental manager in Northern Virginia or a global professional looking to overcome self-doubt, this roadmap is for you.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR THE NEXT-GEN LEADER:00:00 – From BCG to CEO: Regina’s Leadership Evolution03:22 – Overcoming Self-Doubt: The Foundation of Self-Leadership06:15 – Heart-Centered Leadership: Balancing Courage & Compassion09:39 – The ROI of Trust: Strategic Delegation & Growth12:31 – Conversational Intelligence: Frameworks for Executive InfluenceTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode bridges the "C" (Cultivate Mindset) and "I" (Integrate Purpose) pillars. Rahul and Regina discuss how Authenticity and Self-Awareness create the "gravitas" required for true Executive Presence in any market, from Loudoun County to global boardrooms.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: REGINA HUBERRegina Huber is the CEO of TRANSFORM YOUR PERFORMANCE and a multicultural Transformational Leadership Coach. With a career spanning five continents—including leadership roles at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG)—Regina helps executives drive bold, value-driven results. She is the author of Speak up, Stand out and Shine and a global keynote speaker specializing in Heart-Centered Leadership and Personal Branding. 🌐 Learn More: https://www.transformyourperformance.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#climbpodcast #executivepresence

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. How do you transition from a failed startup to leading global innovation at PayPal? In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma sits down with Mike Todasco, AI Fellow and innovation strategist, to discuss the Resilience Mindset required to lead in a tech-driven economy.We dive deep into AI Productivity tools, the "Sabbatical Strategy" for career clarity, and how Staffing and Tech leaders in Northern Virginia can build a culture where failure is a catalyst for breakthrough innovation. If you are navigating a career pivot or managing a team through digital disruption, this episode is your guide.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR INNOVATIVE LEADERS:00:00 – From Failure to PayPal: Mike’s Innovation Journey04:37 – Mindset Shifts: Pivoting from Finance to AI Strategy07:27 – The Power of the Pause: Why Leaders Need Sabbaticals10:40 – Building Innovation Culture: Moving Beyond the Suggestion Box13:28 – Failing Fast: How to Institutionalize Resilience16:37 – AI in the Workplace: Enhancing Human Productivity19:26 – Future of Work: How Technology is Evolving Global Jobs25:32 – Rapid Fire: Grounding Principles for Tech ExecutivesTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode explores the "L" (Leverage Strengths) and "M" (Magnify Impact) pillars. Rahul and Mike discuss how leveraging AI tools isn't just a technical skill—it's a way to magnify a leader’s ability to drive organizational change.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: MIKE TODASCOMike Todasco is a former Director of Innovation at PayPal and a current Visiting Fellow at the AI Center at San Diego State University. A veteran of both the finance and startup worlds, Mike specializes in making Artificial Intelligence accessible for everyday professional growth. He is a strategic advisor to tech firms and a thought leader on the intersection of human creativity and machine productivity. 🔗 Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todasco/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #StaffingIndustry #DCLeaders #RahulKaranSharma

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council Member), this leadership blueprint is for aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area.How do you move from a technical expert to a Global Leadership Guru? In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts Liz Weber, named one of the Top 30 Global Gurus for Leadership (alongside Simon Sinek and John Maxwell).Liz breaks down her proven framework for Strategic Succession Planning and Organizational Culture Reset. For Staffing Industry executives and C-Suite teams in Northern Virginia, Liz reveals why clarity in role expectations is the secret to performance, profits, and long-term retention. If your organization is struggling with team development or stagnating culture, this conversation provides the "Right Impact" roadmap.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR THE BOARDROOM:00:00 – Beyond the Title: Defining Global Leadership & Influence02:54 – Liz Weber’s Evolution: From Small-Town Roots to Global Guru09:53 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Scaling Your Visibility15:52 – Succession Planning: The Foundation of Team Development20:15 – Beyond Surveys: Resetting Organizational Culture for ROI30:02 – Measurable Impact: Transforming Organizations through Strategic CoachingTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode focuses on Magnifying Impact (M) and Building Legacy (B). Rahul and Liz discuss why effective leadership isn't just about current performance, but about building a sustainable Leadership Pipeline that thrives long after the current CEO departs.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: LIZ WEBERLiz Weber is a globally recognized C-Suite Advisor, speaker, and author. Named one of the Top 30 Global Gurus for Leadership, she specializes in Succession Planning and Strategic Alignment for boards and executive teams. Liz helps her clients focus on the "Right Things at the Right Time" to drive performance and workplace excellence. 🌐 Learn More: http://wbsllc.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #StaffingIndustry #DCLeaders #RahulKaranSharma

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council Member), this leadership blueprint is for aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area.Why do most Employee Engagement initiatives fail? 🛑 In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts John Guaspari, a Fortune 500 consultant and former aerospace engineer, to dismantle the mechanical approach to workplace culture.We dive into why Presumptive Respect is the foundation of Organizational Effectiveness and how Staffing and Tech leaders in Northern Virginia can move beyond surveys to foster genuine energy and effort. If you are a leader in Loudoun County or Reston struggling with retention or team friction, John’s engineering-based approach to the "human factor" will transform your leadership strategy.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS:00:00 – The ROI of Engagement: Why Most Leaders Get it Wrong07:57 – The Engineer’s Pivot: Applying Logic to Leadership Strategy16:45 – Organizational Effectiveness: Avoiding the Mechanical Trap24:18 – The Respect-First Framework: Leading with Presumptive Trust32:55 – Strategy Session: Final Thoughts on Workplace DynamicsTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode centers on Integrating Purpose (I) and Magnifying Impact (M). Rahul and John discuss how Executive Presence is built on the quality of your conversations, not the data in your surveys.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: JOHN GUASPARIJohn Guaspari is a recognized authority on Organizational Effectiveness and Employee Engagement. With over 30 years of experience consulting for Fortune 500 companies, John brings a unique "engineering mindset" to the human factors that drive business success. He is the author of several leadership resources focused on building high-trust, high-performance cultures. 🌐 Learn More: https://www.johnguaspari.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #StaffingIndustry #DCLeaders #RahulKaranSharma

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Hosted by Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council Member), this leadership blueprint is for aspiring leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and the DC Metro area.How do you scale a business from a solo practitioner to a high-impact enterprise generating millions in revenue? In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts Jen Du Plessis, the "Team Building & Scaling Architect," to reveal the mechanics of High-Performance Leadership.We break down the formula Mindset + Mechanics = Momentum and discuss why Staffing Industry leaders must shift from management control to Strategic Trust. If you are a leader in Northern Virginia feeling stuck in the "hustle" trap, Jen shares the systems-driven roadmap to help you lead higher, set firm boundaries, and achieve both professional scale and personal fulfillment.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR SCALING EXECUTIVES:00:00 – The Architecture of Transformation: Leading Beyond Management04:14 – Scaling Mindsets: Transitioning from Practitioner to CEO10:27 – Executive Resilience: Leading Under Pressure Without Burnout16:22 – Hustle vs. Harmony: Building Sustainable Systems22:23 – Boundary Setting: The Secret to Executive Presence & Focus27:03 – Rapid Fire: The Philosophies of a $400M Revenue ArchitectTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode is a masterclass in the "L" (Leverage Strengths) and "M" (Magnify Impact) pillars. Rahul and Jen discuss why you cannot scale by doing more; you scale by leveraging your team through the CLIMB Framework™ to magnify your organizational reach.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: JEN DU PLESSISLady Jen Du Plessis is the "Team Building & Scaling Architect" with over 40 years of experience and $400 million in revenue generated. She has helped over 8,000 entrepreneurs transition from practitioners to thriving enterprise leaders. A #1 Amazon Best-Selling author and host of the Mastering Your Success podcast, Jen specializes in high-impact leadership and sustainable business systems. 🌐 Learn More: https://www.jenduplessis.comABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. How do you transition from door-to-door sales to building a national cookie empire? In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma sits down with Bennett Maxwell, founder of FranchiseKi and the visionary behind Dirty Dough.We explore the transition from the corporate desk to Franchise Success and why true leadership is about developing other leaders around you. For Staffing Industry executives and professionals in Northern Virginia looking to own their path, Bennett deconstructs the myths of passive ownership and reveals how to identify successful business models. Learn how to manage expectations, overcome self-doubt, and leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to research your next enterprise.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR THE FRANCHISE MINDSET:00:00 – From Door-to-Door to National Brand: The Entrepreneurial Path03:25 – Leader-Building: The Secret to Scalable Organizations09:01 – Confidence Architecture: Overcoming Internal Barriers11:47 – Franchise Strategy: Opportunities in the Modern Landscape20:32 – The Reality Check: Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners25:30 – Busting the "Passive Income" Myth in Franchising28:17 – Rapid Fire: Finding Joy through High-Impact LeadershipTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode highlights the "I" (Integrate Purpose) and "M" (Magnify Impact) pillars. Rahul and Bennett discuss how franchising enables a leader to scale a proven model across multiple locations while building a legacy of leadership within their teams.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: BENNETT MAXWELLBennett Maxwell is a national entrepreneur and the founder of FranchiseKi, a modern consultancy reshaping the franchise landscape. He was the driving force behind Dirty Dough Cookies, growing it to over 75 locations before its acquisition by Craveworthy Brands. A sought-after speaker and host of the Deeper Than Dough podcast, Bennett is an expert in scaling operations and finding fulfillment through mission-driven entrepreneurship. 🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennett-maxwell-703717126/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence and driving growth in the Staffing Industry. Can you lead others if you haven't mastered your own mind? 🧠 In this episode of The CLIMB, Rahul Karan Sharma hosts Irina Alexander, Founder of The Academy of MotivAction, to discuss the neuroscience of Executive Resilience.We move beyond basic motivation to explore Mental Training for high-stress professionals. For Staffing Industry executives and leaders across Northern Virginia, Irina reveals the early warning signs of burnout and the mindset shifts required to lead with patience and purpose. If you are an accidental manager in Reston or Ashburn feeling the weight of the C-Suite, learn how to bridge "science and soul" to perform at your peak without losing your peace.🚀 STRATEGIC CHAPTERS FOR THE RESILIENT EXECUTIVE:00:00 – Stress Management vs. Mental Training: The New Leadership Edge01:58 – The MBA to Mental Trainer Journey: A Path to Self-Realization03:47 – Mindset Rewiring: Shifting from Reactivity to Purpose07:03 – The Strategic Pause: Why Patience is a Leadership Superpower09:35 – Burnout Prevention: Recognizing the Neurological Red Flags12:48 – The CLIMB Framework™: Applying Self-Leadership to High-Stress Teams15:01 – Inside the Academy of MotivAction: Performance Science for High-AchieversTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode is a deep dive into the "C" (Cultivate Mindset) pillar. Rahul and Irina discuss why Executive Presence is impossible without Self-Awareness. You cannot magnify your impact until you have stabilized your internal state through disciplined mental training.🔍 ABOUT THE GUEST: IRINA ALEXANDERIrina Alexander is a professional Mental Trainer for high-stress professionals and the Founder of The Academy of MotivAction. With an MBA background and 20 years of research across neuroscience and business, Irina helps high-achievers rewire their minds to perform at peak levels. She bridges the gap between scientific strategy and personal purpose to help leaders eliminate burnout and lead with clarity. 🌐 Visit Irina: https://motivaction.academy/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🏛️ DC METRO’S PREMIER KEYNOTE EXPERT: Trusted advisor for Fortune 500s across Northern Virginia and D.C. 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast is the definitive strategy for mastering Executive Presence. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Arjun Sharma (COO, The Career Company) to dissect the Talent Acquisition mindset and Career Ownership strategies for Staffing Industry leaders in the DC Metro area.How do we bridge the gap between "Instant Gratification" and "Executive Excellence"?🧠 In this episode, we explore the "Accidental Leader" journey and the psychological friction point where individual contributors transition into high-impact management. For executives across Northern Virginia, Reston, and Ashburn, the challenge of 2026 is maintaining a high-performance culture through the CLIMB™ Framework.KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR RESILIENT LEADERS:00:00 – The Accidental Leader: Mentorship as a Catalyst for Growth08:12 – The Great Transition: Rewiring Your Mindset for People Management14:55 – Engineering Development: Navigating the CLIMB™ Framework21:12 – Strategic Coaching: Bridging the Gap in Executive Presence27:39 – Mentoring Gen Z: Overcoming Instant Gratification in the Workplace33:15 – Strategy Session: Why Asking for Help is a Competitive Advantage THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT:This episode is a masterclass in the "B" (Build Your Brand) and "I" (Introspect Regularly) pillars of the CLIMB Framework™. Rahul and Arjun discuss why leadership is not just a title, but a brand built on Career Ownership. Without regular introspection, new managers cannot navigate the "Mindset Gap" required to move from doing the work to leading the people who do it.ABOUT OUR GUEST: ARJUN SHARMA COO, The Career Company | Talent Acquisition Expert & Certified Purpose CoachArjun Sharma is a distinguished corporate leader with nearly two decades of expertise in Talent Management and Business Operations. As a certified NLP and Emotional Intelligence Coach, Arjun specializes in the transformational journey of teams and individuals. His unique perspective as the COO of The Career Company makes him a vital voice for organizations looking to optimize their talent pipelines and leadership alignment.🔗 Connect with Arjun on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/arjunsct/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA 🏆 GLOBAL TOP 1.5% PODCAST | FORBES COACHES COUNCIL MEMBER | KEYNOTE SPEAKER THE AUTHORITY IN HIGH-VELOCITY LEADERSHIP Rahul Karan Sharma is a Global Leadership Development Expert and the premier Staffing Industry Specialist for the Washington D.C. Metro area. He solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis by transforming technical experts into Executive-ready leaders. COMMUNITY & INDUSTRY AUTHORITY A proud member of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Rahul is deeply embedded in the Northern Virginia business ecosystem. As a Forbes Coaches Council member, he bridges the gap between local business needs and global leadership standards. THE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ & LEADERSHIP AUDIT Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, Rahul helps firms in Arlington, Fairfax, Reston, and Ashburn build resilient Leadership Pipelines. He specializes in solving high turnover and performance gaps through Organizational Strategy and Executive Presence coaching. WORK WITH RAHUL: Whether you are looking for a Leadership Keynote Speaker for your next summit or a Fractional Leadership Consultant for a 6-month retainer, Rahul delivers "Strategic Acceleration." 🚀 FREE RESOURCE: Take the CLIMB Leadership Audit to identify your organization's growth gaps: https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ 🏢 STAFFING INDUSTRY EXPERT: Solving turnover and talent gaps with Fractional Leadership strategies. 📖 FREE DOWNLOAD: Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented" – The definitive guide to overcoming stagnation and leading with high-velocity results:https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart 🔗 BOOK RAHUL: www.rahulkaransharma.com

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast is the definitive global strategy for mastering Executive Presence and cross-border leadership. In this episode, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Sara Roccisano (Founder of Embolden Adventures) to dissect the psychological transition from High-Pressure Finance to Authentic Leadership for global executives navigating corporate layoffs and career pivots.How do you transform the trauma of a layoff into a catalyst for self-empowerment and professional transformation?🧠 In this episode, we explore the Emboldened Resilience Framework. For leaders in Washington, D.C., Reston, and global financial hubs, the challenge for 2026 is moving beyond external validation toward Authentic Self-Discovery. We discuss how the CLIMB™ Framework serves as the foundation for Leveraging Strengths (L) when the "corporate fit" no longer aligns with your personal mission.🚀 STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR EXECUTIVE TRANSFORMATION:00:00 – The Corporate Exit Strategy: Sara's Pivot from Investment Banking14:12 – The Authority Asset: How Writing a Book Solidifies Your Leadership Brand24:53 – The Layoff Survival Guide: Building Resilience in an Unpredictable Market30:24 – Emboldened Adventures: Creating Platforms for Professional Transformation36:23 – Final Strategy Session: Why "Leading from Within" is the Future of ManagementTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT: This episode is a deep dive into Leveraging Strengths (L) and Magnifying Impact (M). Rahul and Sara discuss how high-performers often mistake "External Validation" (Ivy League degrees, Banking titles) for "Internal Strength." True leadership requires you to Leverage your Strengths (L) even when your environment changes. When you stop seeking a "fit" in toxic systems and start Magnifying your Impact (M) through your authentic voice, you move from a "Job Seeker" to a "Global Icon."ABOUT OUR GUEST: SARA ROCCISANOFounder of Embolden Adventures, Author & International SpeakerSara Roccisano is a former investment banker and renewable energy finance professional who transformed her career through world travel and spiritual development. As the founder of Embolden Adventures, she inspires executives to navigate "extraordinary times of change" with optimism and connectedness. She is a leading voice on professional resilience and the necessity of finding an authentic career fit.🌐 Connect with Sara: www.Emboldenadventures.comABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry Specialist. Rahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters, Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. He is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ ] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart] 🌐Official Website: www.rahulkaransharma.com📈Connect: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/]🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#TheClimbPodcast #ExecutivePresence #StaffingIndustry #DCLeaders #RahulKaranSharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleader

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast delivers the strategic blueprint for high-velocity results. In this masterclass, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Alan Lazaros (CEO of Next Level University) to define the new standard of "Executive Hygiene."Is your calendar a tool for growth or a source of burnout? In a world of infinite distraction, the difference between a "Doom Loop" and a "Success Loop" is intentional Self-Leadership. We dissect how top-tier entrepreneurs leverage digital and calendar hygiene to build unshakeable self-efficacy and scale their confidence.🚀 STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR EXECUTIVE DESIGN:01:58 – The Adversity Advantage: Transforming Personal Crisis into Global Influence12:29 – Digital & Calendar Hygiene: The Non-Negotiable Habits of High-Velocity Leaders18:23 – The Loop Strategy: Escaping the Doom Loop and Engineering the Success Loop24:06 – Strategic Investment: Why Investing in Yourself is the Ultimate Executive Leverage26:48 – The Philosophy of Action: Rapid Fire Insights on Fulfillment and WealthTHE CLIMB FRAMEWORK™ INSIGHT:This session is a masterclass in I – Integrate Purpose & Vision. Alan Lazaros’s concept of "Calendar Hygiene" is the tactical foundation for L – Leveraging Your Strengths. When a leader audits their time, they move from being a reactive "Accidental Manager" to an intentional visionary. By designing your schedule, you C – Cultivate Your Mindset for high-velocity success. Rahul and Alan prove that confidence isn’t a feeling—it’s a design that allows you to M – Magnify Your Impact across the organization.About Guest: Alan LazarosAlan Lazaros is the Founder and CEO of Next Level University, a Global Top 100 Self-Improvement Podcast reaching listeners in over 175 countries. A heart-driven coach and trainer, Alan specializes in helping leaders achieve internal fulfillment alongside external success through his "No BS" approach to life, health, and wealth.🌐 Connect with Alan: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters, Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. He is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/ ] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart] 🌐Official Website: www.rahulkaransharma.com📈Connect: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/]🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders

Ranked in the Global Top 1.5%, The CLIMB: Confident Leader Podcast defines the future of executive resilience. In this session, Rahul Karan Sharma (Forbes Coaches Council) joins Victoria Mensch (CEO of Silicon Valley Executive Academy) to solve the ultimate 2026 dilemma: The Burnout-AI Paradox.As AI accelerates, the "Accidental Manager" crisis deepens. We explore why self-leadership is the only vaccine for burnout and how to achieve Work-Life Harmony in a high-velocity world. Using the CLIMB™ Framework, we demonstrate how leaders can move from tactical survival to visionary influence by integrating AI as a tool for scale rather than a source of exhaustion.🚀 STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FOR THE AI AGE:03:08 – From Psychology to Silicon Valley: The Foundation of High-Performance Cultures09:44 – The Shift: Essential Mindset Re-Engineering for the 2026 Executive12:56 – The AI Disruptor: Leveraging Machine Intelligence to Reduce Leader Burnout16:46 – Joy as a Metric: Practical Executive Strategies for Sustainable Energy23:58 – Leadership Stages: A Framework for Navigating Complexity and Growth THE CLIMB™ FRAMEWORK INSIGHT:This episode is a deep dive into C – Cultivate Your Mindset and M – Magnify Your Impact. Victoria Mensch highlights that without a resilient mindset (C), a leader cannot withstand the pressures of AI-driven change. By focusing on "Harmony" over "Balance," leaders learn to Magnify their Impact (M) through strategic delegation and AI-integration, ensuring their influence scales without their energy depleting.About Guest: Victoria MenschVictoria Mensch is an executive leadership strategist and the Founder of Silicon Valley Executive Academy. With 25 years of experience in the tech sector, she equips organizations with the tools to lead through AI-driven change and build high-performance cultures that are both innovative and burnout-proof.🌐 Connect with Victoria: svexecutive.academy/servicesABOUT YOUR HOST: RAHUL KARAN SHARMA Rahul Karan Sharma | Forbes Coaches Council Global Leadership Expert and Staffing Industry SpecialistRahul solves the "Accidental Manager" crisis. Using his proprietary CLIMB Framework™, he transforms technical experts into executive-ready leaders. Ranked in the Global Top 1.5% of Podcasters, Rahul bridges the gap between Northern Virginia’s business ecosystem and international leadership standards. As a prominent member of the Loudoun County and Greater Reston Chambers of Commerce, Rahul is the definitive advisor for firms from Ashburn to Arlington seeking Strategic Acceleration.🚀Audit Your Leadership: [https://climb-leadership-audit.scoreapp.com/] 📖 Get your copy of "Be Action Oriented": [https://www.habits4miracles.com/jumpstart]🌐Official Website: www.rahulkaransharma.com📈Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulkaransharma/🎙️ Search 'The CLIMB Rahul Karan Sharma' on Spotify & Apple#theclimbpodcast #executivepresence #staffingindustry #dcleaders #rahulkaransharma #confidentleader #leadershipdevelopment #nextgenleaders