Ambition Aligned w/ Devon Coombs, CPA, MBA

In this episode of Ambition Aligned, discover the unwavering grit and strategic mindset it takes to navigate billion-dollar transformations in tech—from shrink-wrapping CDs to global cloud infrastructure and AI changes—while also running on a floating sheet of ice with polar bear guards.Melissa shares invaluable insights on financial leadership, tolerance for risk, and the art of understanding business beyond the numbers. Learn how her experiences as an endurance athlete translate directly to leading global teams, fostering resilience, and mastering communication across technical and financial domains. Don't miss her crucial advice for CFOs and product finance leaders on AI integration and the "three C's" of data strategy.Tune in to learn how Melissa's goal-oriented approach and commitment to continuous learning have fueled an extraordinary career and life. What can you apply from her journey to align your own ambition?00:00 Introduction to Melissa's Journey00:32 Welcome to Ambition Aligned01:17 Melissa's Career Path: From Bookkeeping to Global Finance07:23 Adventures in Running: 51 Marathons and the North Pole10:48 Challenges in Cloud Migration vs. Marathon Training11:27 The Importance of Finance Partnership15:47 Navigating AI Hype and Substance19:05 The Three C's of Data Management22:06 Mindset and Grit: Overcoming Extreme Challenges25:08 The Power of Teamwork in Business and Life25:43 Lessons in Resilience and Leadership27:17 Building Confidence Through Risk-Taking29:17 The Importance of Impact and Legacy31:13 Aligning Personal Values with Professional Goals37:27 Advice for Rising Finance Leaders43:04 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Is your mindset keeping you trapped in a cycle of burnout, no matter how successful you are? This conversation reveals the mental switch used by elite performers to reclaim their time, energy, and financial freedom.You can graduate from the best schools, land jobs at top firms, and even become a multi-millionaire, yet still feel controlled by pressure, anxiety, and the fear of not being enough. The secret to breaking free isn't working harder—it's rewiring the 95% of your success that's driven by your mind.In this episode, we sit down with Kelsie Neibel, a top-performing tech seller with a background at elite firms like Deloitte and Goldman Sachs. After hitting severe burnout multiple times, she discovered the science-backed methods to rewire her brain. She transformed her relationship with money from "master" to "servant" and built a thriving career that doesn't come at the expense of her family or well-being.If you're a high-achiever ready to trade stress for sustainable success, this is your guide.🔥 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:The 98% Rule: Why your mindset, not your strategy, dictates the ceiling of your success.The Science of Change: How neuroplasticity allows you to build new thought patterns at any age.A Practical Tool to Remap Your Brain: The "T-Chart" method to identify and replace a scarcity mindset.MONEY MASTERY: How to transform your relationship with money from a source of anxiety to a tool for empowerment.Combating Cultural Toxicity: How to protect your energy and focus from negative work environments and social media doom-scrolling.The High-Performer's Dilemma: Why the most successful people are often the most susceptible to crippling self-doubt and what to do about it.** timestamps / CHAPTERS:**0:00 - The Truth About High-Performance Burnout1:45 - The #1 Thing That Shifted Everything for a Goldman Sachs / Deloitte Vet3:10 - Can You Actually Control Your Thoughts? Here's How.4:28 - The 98% Statistic That Changes Everything6:15 - Why You Need to Change: Pain vs. Desire7:35 - The Science of Rewiring Your Brain (Neuroplasticity)9:55 - ACTIONABLE: A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Money Story12:40 - This Sounds Strange... But It Works.13:55 - How Long Does It Really Take to See Results?15:10 - Why Top Tech Sellers Are So Prone to Burnout & Depression17:30 - The Hidden Danger of Your LinkedIn & News Feed19:45 - How Your Phone Addiction is Sabotaging Your Family & Career22:12 - A Challenge That Will Instantly Improve Your Mental HealthCONNECT WITH KELSIE & DEVON:► https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsieneibel/►https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/RESOURCES MENTIONED:► Book: "Winning the War in Your Mind" - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=winning+the+war+in+your+mind&hvadid=695363176033&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9061321&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=6282759908261981183--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6282759908261981183&hvtargid=kwd-1064715442922&hydadcr=22159_13517521&mcid=e7b2c02d4f5e35acb1e45c20d306d22d&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_5drzjndwkn_e_p67Did this conversation resonate with you?🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more strategies for ambitious professionals👇 Let us know in the comments: What is one negative thought or "old story" you want to rewire?#Mindset #Burnout #Success #WorkLifeBalance #Neuroplasticity #TechSales #HighPerformance #Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Ambition Aligned, host Devon Coombs, CPA, sits down with Shane Clark, a CPA who transitioned from a high-stress job with 75-hour work weeks to running a successful and family-centered tax practice in Los Angeles. Shane shares his journey from working at a big accounting firm to joining his father's small tax firm and the nuances of balancing professional ambitions with a fulfilling personal life. This conversation covers essential financial topics, such as tax strategies for high earners, the benefits of starting your own business, and the practical steps to avoid lifestyle creep. Shane also discusses the importance of setting and sticking to long-term goals, smart retirement planning, and the advantages of small business ownership. Don't miss this practical and insightful discussion loaded with wisdom from someone who has successfully navigated the path to financial freedom while maintaining a balanced life.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:39 Meet Shane Clark: From Burnout to Thriving01:38 Shane's Journey: From Big Firm to Family Business05:52 Balancing Work and Life: Shane's Approach10:53 The Importance of Setting Goals17:06 Devon's Career Shift and Reflections21:52 Tax Strategies for High Earners26:00 Transitioning from W2 to Business Ownership26:26 Tax Benefits for Business Owners27:25 Maximizing Retirement Contributions30:26 Strategic Financial Planning32:09 Lifestyle Choices and Financial Freedom37:10 Tax Strategies for Business Owners42:26 Common Tax Misconceptions44:57 Rapid Fire Questions47:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us on this episode of Ambition Align where we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Claire, the CEO and founder of Kipsy. With over 10 years of experience transitioning from Deloitte to BlackLine, then to a startup, and finally founding her own company, Claire shares invaluable insights. Find out about her innovative approach to leadership, the importance of maintaining a customer-first mindset, and how persevering through challenge after challenge brought Kipsy to where it is today. Learn about the behind-the-scenes of building and scaling a tech company, navigating mentorships, finding the right co-founder, and the essential lessons on maintaining work-life balance. Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation!00:00 Introduction to Success and Learning00:18 Expensive Mistakes and Organizational Truths00:34 Interview with Claire: Journey to Founding Kipsy01:52 From Deloitte to BlackLine: Career Pivot03:34 The Importance of Tools and Culture in Audit06:55 Joining Lilt for Hands-On Experience17:29 The Catalyst for Starting Kipsy22:05 Building Kipsy: From Idea to Execution31:20 The Journey to the First Customer33:01 Building Trust Through Feedback38:57 Challenges and Growth in the Early Years42:18 Balancing Personal and Professional Life47:01 Fundraising and Strategic Decisions54:57 Final Thoughts and Advice

What if the biggest risk in your business wasn’t the idea—but the people you partner with?In this raw and practical episode of Ambition Aligned, Nickolaus Violin, founder & CEO of Konnekted, shares the behind-the-scenes journey of launching a flexible workspace business—and what nearly destroyed it. From real estate deals gone wrong to navigating ruthless landlords and delayed permits, Nick opens up about trust, betrayal, startup resilience, and the lessons he wishes he learned sooner.We also unpack:Why you should never trust a handshake (and what to do instead)How to protect yourself in business partnerships—even with friendsWhat makes or breaks a co-working startupWhy lawyers are non-negotiable (and no, ChatGPT can’t replace them)How to recognize the line between optimism and delusion as a founderThis is a masterclass in calculated risk, humility, and building something that actually serves the modern professional.🔗 Learn more about Nickolaus and Konnekted: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickolausviolin/📣 Want more founder stories & practical leadership insights? Like, comment, and subscribe.Website: https://devoncoombs.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/#StartupLessons #RealEstateDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPartnerships #AmbitionAligned

AI writing tools are flooding professional workflows—but what if they’re silently making your legal and financial docs worse?In this episode of Ambition Aligned, I sit down with Ray Sang, CPA, CISA, CITP—founder of Inkwise.ai and Chipmunk Robotics, former Revenue Director at Elastic and Deal Controller at Google, and current law student at Fordham.Ray is building the most human-centered AI writing platform for professionals in law, accounting, and finance—and he’s here to explain why most AI-generated memos, contracts, and reports are deeply flawed.We cover:Why AI can't yet replace expert writers (and how it can assist)How Inkwise gives you precision, sourcing, and human-first controlThe biggest red flags in AI-generated writingWhat professional-grade drafting with AI should actually look likeLIVE demo: Watch Ray draft a real ASC 606 memo using AIThis is the episode for you if you work in legal, accounting, finance, or compliance and want to use AI without sacrificing quality or ethics.🔗 Try Inkwise: https://inkwise.ai🔗 Connect with Ray: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raysang🔗 Learn more from Devon: https://www.devoncoombs.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/Subscribe for more deep-dive convos at the intersection of purpose, leadership, and innovation.#LegalTech #FinTech #AItools #Accounting #AmbitionAligned

She was denied stress leave. Her workplace gaslit her. Now she's a bestseller and a top coach.In this powerful episode of Ambition Aligned, nurse leader-turned-entrepreneur Sara Fung shares how she walked away from a toxic healthcare system, built a thriving business from scratch, became a top podcast host (The Gritty Nurse), and hit #1 on Canada’s bestseller lists—all while raising kids and recovering from burnout.We unpack:Why leaving for less money can give you more lifeThe dark reality of healthcare work culture (pump rooms on toilets, toxic “leadership”)How Sara used podcasting and community to rebuild her careerTurning burnout into a platform for change—and profitPractical mindset shifts for stuck professionals (in any industry)If you're a high performer trapped in a job that’s breaking you—this conversation will shift something in you.🔗 Connect with Sara:Website: www.sarafung.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saramfung/Career coaching: https://www.thernresume.com/Podcast: www.grittynurse.comBook: http://harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/🔗 Connect with Devon:devoncoombs.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/👇 Like, comment, and subscribe if this resonated with you.#Leadership #BurnoutRecovery #CareerChange #Nursing #AmbitionAligned

Everyone knows the numbers are off. But no one’s talking about why.In this explosive conversation, Blake Oliver — CPA, founder of Earmark CPE, and host of the #1 accounting podcast in the world — joins Devon Coombs to expose the hidden crisis destroying trust, ethics, and sustainability in the accounting profession.We unpack:Secret time sheets and the lies firms rewardHow burnout is built into the system by designWhy CPE and training have become a jokeRevenue recognition games that inflate earningsThe cultural rot infecting public accounting—and how to fix itThis isn’t just for CPAs. If you’ve ever worked in a broken system, felt punished for telling the truth, or wondered why honest people burn out… this episode will hit home.🎧 Watch, share, and subscribe for more truth-driven leadership convos.🔗 More at: devoncoombs.com🔗 Connect: linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs#accounting #burnout #leadership #cpa #ethics

Get a 25% discount on TABot's AI Software using the code DEVON25.In this episode of Ambition Aligned, I sit down with Nina and Harton—two high-achievers who left lucrative careers at Google and Big 4 firms to build TA Bot, an AI-powered co-pilot for technical accountants.We talk about:Why they walked away from stability to chase purposeHow they’re using fine-tuned AI to save hundreds of hours in audit and memo prepThe shocking truth about AI hallucinations in accounting (and how they fixed it)What it really takes to start a lean startup in a regulated spaceHow Series B+ CFOs and controllers are using their tool for real ROITheir journey is equal parts practical, emotional, and inspiring—a must-watch for anyone interested in leadership, innovation, or entrepreneurship in the AI era.📩 Interested in partnering or joining the beta? Visit https://www.tabot.info🌐 Learn more at: devoncoombs.com🔗 Connect with me: linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs#Leadership #AccountingAI #StartupLife #AuditTech #AmbitionAligned

Most promotions come with a dangerous lie: you’re ready.In reality? You're stepping into a role you were never trained for.In this episode of Ambition Aligned, executive coach Kent Frazier (ex-Korn Ferry, Cargill, Buffalo Wild Wings) breaks down why top performers often fail upward—and what to do instead.We explore:Why being good at your job makes you a bad managerThe invisible shift from contributor to leaderOptics vs. outcomes: the trap of trying to “look” successfulHow to win influence before you “need” itThe 90-day playbook every new leader should followIf you've been recently promoted—or are gunning for it—this is the conversation you can’t afford to skip. No fluff. No theory. Just real talk from the trenches of leadership development.🎧 Subscribe, leave a comment with your biggest takeaway, and share with a new leader who needs this!📍More from Kent: kent.coach.com🌐 More from Devon: devoncoombs.com🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs#leadershipdevelopment #newleaders #promotiontrap #executivecoaching #ambitionaligned

How do you go from losing your eyesight and sleeping in a freezing buildings in the fetal position... to becoming a global tech leader and bestselling author?In this unforgettable Ambition Aligned episode, Ravi Prakash shares the raw truth behind his rise—from arriving in the U.S. with $0 and no family, to leading $8M+ digital transformation programs at Salesforce, and writing Safar, his powerful book on resilience and self-mastery.A Harvard Executive Leadership alum, Ravi has worked in 15+ countries, built high-performing teams, and inspired thousands as a keynote speaker. But his story begins with hunger, humiliation, and relentless hope.We cover:How to lead when the odds are stacked against youWhy executive presence is often BS—and what actually mattersThe hidden power of libraries, discomfort, and real human connectionWhy joy comes before money—not the other way aroundHow to turn your worst winters into your strongest weapons📘 Grab Ravi’s book Safar: www.journeywithravi.com🔗 Connect with Ravi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravi-prakash1/🎯 Connect with Devon: devoncoombs.com🙏 If this story moved you, please like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs it.#leadership #resilience #immigrantstory #ambitionaligned #careerjourney

AI can write your pitch—but it can’t fix your people problems.In this episode of Ambition Aligned, I sit down with Vladimir Baranov, a founder coach and former CTO/COO who helps technical founders get unstuck and lead with clarity. Vladimir has mentored YC and TS startups, and he specializes in helping brilliant engineers grow past their blind spots—before they burn out or stall their companies.We cover:Why tech founders cap their own growthHow AI is being misused as a crutch instead of a coachThe power of emotional intelligence in scaling teamsWhy self-awareness is the most underrated founder advantageWhat to do when your team hits 10, 50, or 100—and starts breakingWhether you lead a startup or a scaled org, this is a masterclass in real leadership—not just technical skill.🎯 Subscribe for raw conversations on ambition, leadership, and impact.🌐 devoncoombs.com🌐https://humaninterfaces.co/🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/🔗https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladimirbaranov/#TechLeadership #FounderCoach #AIinBusiness #EQvsIQ #AmbitionAligned

Join Devon Coombs from Google Cloud and executive coach Larry Jacobson as they dive deep into effective job search strategies and interview techniques for experienced professionals. Larry shares insights from his 15 years as a technical hiring manager for major companies like Snap and Amazon. Learn how to optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile, master the skill of networking, and handle interview questions with confidence. Whether you're seeking a new job, a promotion, or aiming to improve your interview skills, this episode offers valuable advice to help you succeed.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:17 Mindset Shift for Job Seekers03:50 Understanding the Interview Process06:45 Optimizing Your Resume and LinkedIn08:22 Networking Strategies: Inside Out13:05 Networking Strategies: Outside In19:29 Overcoming Mental Blocks and Goal Setting23:43 Preparing for Job Interviews24:08 Preparing for Job Interviews: The Right Mindset25:19 Crafting and Polishing Your Stories25:49 Effective Use of Writing Prompts28:12 Adapting to Unexpected Interview Questions28:42 The Importance of Honesty in Interviews31:48 Answering 'Tell Me About Yourself'35:41 Closing the Interview: Asking the Right Questions38:57 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Advice

Feeling lost in your career or life? 🤯 In this powerful interview, Devon Coombs from Google Cloud sits down with Nadia, Google's Head of Data Analytics, to uncover the secrets to personal and professional transformation. Nadia shares her inspiring journey from overcoming mental health struggles during COVID-19 to finding her true purpose and embracing her authentic self.Discover practical strategies to:🎧 Tune into your inner voice and intuition. 📝 Use reflection and journaling for self-discovery.🔥 Transform pain into power through intentionality.🌈 Embrace your unique traits and authenticity in the workplace. 🗣️ Leverage your voice to create impact and align with your genius zone. 🛡️ Protect your energy from "energy vampires" and raise your vibrational state.✨ Manifest your desires and align with your life's purpose. This video is a must-watch for anyone seeking:Career transformationPersonal growth and self-discoveryTools for overcoming challengesStrategies for finding purpose and meaningJoin us as Nadia reveals her insights on self-coaching, awareness, and the power of high vibrations. Don't miss the rapid-fire questions at the end!Timestamps:00:00 Facing Your Demons: The Path to Transformation00:44 Introducing Devon Coombs and Nadia01:41 Nadia's Journey: From Island Life to Google03:19 Listening to the Inner Voice05:18 The Power of Reflection and Journaling08:55 COVID Challenges and Personal Transformation17:50 Embracing Authenticity and Mental Health26:19 Using Your Voice to Transform26:45 Identifying Your Genius Zone27:50 Protecting Your Energy28:16 Self-Coaching and Awareness30:07 The Power of High Vibrations31:22 Manifesting Your Desires34:34 Aligning with Your Purpose43:30 Intentional Decision Making47:00 Rapid Fire Questions

Are you working 100-hour weeks and feeling like your life is slipping away? 😔 In this eye-opening interview, Devon Coombs (Google Cloud) talks with Eric, a former Google executive, about his journey from high-powered burnout to a life of purpose and freedom.Eric shares his powerful story of:🔥 Hitting rock bottom due to overwork and prioritizing his health.💡 Realizing that "you have a choice" and the importance of saying "no."⚖️ Shifting from a high-performance mindset to a value-based approach to career and life.🔑 Learning to prioritize your time and energy effectively.🌱 Experimenting with different paths to discover your true calling.Learn how to:Recognize the signs of burnout before it's too late.Make confident career decisions based on your values, not just external pressures.Overcome the fear of failure and embrace experimentation.Prioritize direction over effort and focus on what truly matters.Transition from an employee mindset to an owner mindset.This video is for anyone who wants to:Avoid burnout and achieve work-life balanceMake more intentional career choicesFind greater meaning and fulfillment in their workLearn from the experiences of a successful executiveDon't miss Eric's insights on taking action, overcoming cognitive biases, and creating a life you love.Websites: devoncoombs.com / https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehrlich/Eric’s Book “You Have a Choice” – https://www.amazon.com/You-Have-Choice-Beyond-Meaningful/dp/B0CM8P1SVX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2T42TFTCV85IW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WwmS6mIh6whyPzAFiO28gUzo8h6_L7Onyx-L0eV8NgDiEMWP0_ndyoXLlv4tkzNIZYVxq1Ytwar9dlxry-ZlCk_1tdutgi_B4k8Vtms8ZX60i-pCrmq1di2MdKxzlA8KwrUE0z7F2nKKktx8pynagdfKcP8TQPLvdEgRprwAwa7ZkPEMC9Pps5q2m0sQv4aq_3Mr5vrzVJ_hSVibPoxRrBYG48yeiQ3yIDpXNE_pLkcDk0-WppbfFshbbY2JuacR_FfK0q-07VKe653SUR0IQURSc0YSbNyIXGI6yzDnl1I2U_RBgfdXxdUo4r2FSfTtGxXut9Qq3xUhd2UiotpLsfnoNqsaxhxWBHMyP_xqFSzmfuYZJTe_CKxRbHpTxn_JfhnrEs_SRgNsKlbtX4mwtO75jXatFHq404ZTkZeKqVXTELSjnXq7peKFpNi3qagj.mD8GygWkxeYB_EQzW-ioMAFI0a7hQu4-h88lC7JW_4E&dib_tag=se&keywords=you+have+a+choice&qid=1741871946&sprefix=you+have+a+choic%2Caps%2C185&sr=8-1Devon Coombs: CPA, MBAEric Nehrilich – Ex-Google Chief of Staff, Author, and Executive Coach.More topics include: Burnout, Google Exec, 100-Hour Weeks, 103° Fever, Google Burnout, Executive Burnout, Prevent Burnout, Work-Life Balance, Career Transition, Coaching, Leadership, High Performance.Call to Action:Join the Conversation:"Have you ever felt your body screaming for a change? Share your story in the comments below!"Engage Now:"Like, Subscribe, and hit the Notification Bell for weekly strategies to overcome burnout and achieve true success."Timestamp Navigation:00:00 Introduction: The Illusion of Success01:01 The Breaking Point: Realizing Something Had to Change02:25 The Moment of Reckoning: Health Crisis and Epiphany04:51 Choosing a Different Path: Embracing New Possibilities07:28 The Power of Choice: Redefining Success08:43 From Burnout to Balance: The Journey to Coaching12:11 Experimenting with Change: Building a New Career15:49 The Importance of Alignment: Living with Integrity20:28 Final Reflections: Embracing New Directions29:22 Overcoming the Fear of Failure29:44 Instilling Resilience in Children31:15 The Employee vs. Owner Mindset37:37 Transitioning to a Coaching Career39:41 Balancing Passion and Financial Stability41:33 Values-Driven Decision Making46:18 Practical Coaching Techniques50:31 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts#Burnout#GoogleExec#ExecutiveBurnout#100HourWeeks#WorkLifeBalance#CareerTransition#Leadership#ExecutiveCoaching#MentalHealth#SuccessMindset#Rebirth#Overwork#ProductivityHacks#WorkStress#LeadershipDevelopment

Leadership isn’t about rank, title, or control—it’s about influence, trust, and empowerment. But what happens when leaders try to “rescue” their teams instead of empowering them?🎙️ In this episode of Ambition Aligned, former Coast Guard Commander turned Executive Coach, Shannon McCullar, shares battle-tested leadership lessons from high-stakes environments. He reveals how leadership evolves as you rise, why trust is more powerful than control, and how to inspire action without micromanaging.Key Takeaways from This Episode:✅ The #1 leadership mistake that holds people back✅ Why “rescuing” your team could be setting them up for failure✅ The shift from competence → influence as leaders rise✅ How to build trust & lead effectively in remote/hybrid teams✅ Storytelling in leadership: How the best leaders inspire action📢 What’s the hardest leadership lesson YOU’VE learned? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear your experience!00:00 Introduction to Leadership00:51 Welcome to Ambition Aligned01:48 Challenges Leaders Face Today03:30 Remote Work Dynamics10:22 Leadership Beyond Rank17:53 Transitioning Careers35:15 Coaching Aspirations and Ideal Clients37:13 The Power of Self-Rescue37:45 A Memorable Rescue Story41:39 Lessons from Leadership and Coaching49:12 Navigating Career Transitions53:48 The Importance of Communication in Leadership55:59 Personal Stories and Reflections59:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts🔗 Connect with Shannon Mccullar: ShannonMcCullar.com🔗 LinkedIn: Shannon McCullar🔗 Connect with Devon Coombs:devoncoombs.com LinkedIn: Devon Coombs📌 More insights on leadership, productivity, and career growth!🚀 Enjoyed this episode?🔹 Like, Subscribe & Hit the Bell 🔔 for more expert insights on leadership, decision-making, and high performance.🔹 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!#Leadership #ExecutiveCoach #LeadershipDevelopment #HighPerformance #PersonalGrowth

Why do some leaders accelerate while others hit a plateau? What separates those who keep rising from those who get stuck?In this episode of Ambition Aligned, we sit down with Dr. Laura Aziz, a top executive coach who has led over 3,000 coaching sessions and helped hundreds of executives break past their limits. If you want to master leadership, executive presence, and career growth, this conversation is for you!🔑 What You’ll Learn:✅ Why competence alone won’t get you ahead—and what actually does✅ The biggest leadership blind spots holding professionals back✅ How to communicate with executive presence and influence powerfully✅ Why people leave bosses, not companies (and how to use this insight to your advantage)✅ How to handle conflict like a top leader without losing credibility✅ The secret to building a thriving coaching business (even if you're an expert)📩 Your Turn!What’s the #1 leadership challenge you’re facing right now? Drop it in the comments—let’s start a conversation!🚀 Like, Share & Subscribe for more high-performance leadership strategies!🔔 Hit the bell icon so you don’t miss the next episode.📌 Follow Dr. Laura Aziz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraaziz/📌 Follow Devon Coombs for more content: devoncoombs.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/00:00 Introduction: The Mindset of a Leader00:37 Welcome to Ambition Align00:44 Meet Dr. Laura Aziz01:15 The Journey to Executive Coaching05:04 The Power of Coaching07:17 Effective Communication for Leaders23:02 Clarity and Alignment in Leadership31:35 Navigating Layoffs and Career Transitions36:09 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts39:15 Introduction and Background01:15 Laurie's Coaching Journey03:14 Impact of Coaching05:04 Challenges in Executive Coaching07:46 Effective Communication and Executive Presence16:38 Clarity and Alignment in Leadership31:55 Advice for Handling Layoffs and Career Transitions36:09 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

What if your biggest career breakthrough had nothing to do with your technical skills?Chirag Panjikar, a Stanford-educated engineer and executive at John Deere, has spent 20 years leading digital transformation, supply chain modernization, and executive coaching. But his biggest leadership lesson? People and trust matter more than any technology.In this episode, we discuss:✅ How to build trust as a leader when employees don’t believe in leadership✅ The secret to managing large teams (Chirag led 250+ people!)✅ Why technical skills alone won’t get you to the top✅ Coaching vs. mentorship – What’s the real difference?✅ How to navigate career transitions & define your professional identity🔔 LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more leadership, coaching, and career growth insights!Drop a 🔥 in the comments if you agree that leadership is more than technical skills! What’s YOUR biggest leadership lesson?📎 Connect with Chirag:🔗 www.qacchua.com🔗 www.linkedin.com/in/chirag-panjikar-5807035📎 Connect with Devon:🔗 www.devoncoombs.com🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs00:00 Introduction to Chirag's Journey01:33 Early Career and Return to India05:38 Leadership and Coaching Philosophy08:36 Building Trust and Safe Spaces13:02 Challenges in Leadership18:00 The Role of a Coach23:19 Personal Coaching Experience30:11 The Power of Coaching Moments30:54 Confidential Coaching Example31:51 Balancing Career and Family35:19 Trends in Leadership and Coaching36:28 The Changing Employee-Employer Relationship40:08 Leveraging Technology in Coaching43:07 The Importance of Long-Term Thinking47:49 Future of Coaching and Personal Growth51:39 Final Thoughts and Takeaways #Leadership #ExecutiveCoaching #CareerGrowth #TrustInLeadership #DigitalTransformation #Podcast #Stanford #LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth

🎙️ Feeling stuck in your career? Waiting for a promotion that never comes? Unsure of your next step? You're not alone—and this episode is for you.Today, I sit down with Limor, an executive coach & leadership expert who helps women in tech and engineering overcome self-doubt, break through barriers, and step into senior leadership roles with confidence.She shares her powerful journey from software engineering to executive leadership, how she navigated career pivots, golden handcuffs, and self-advocacy, and why she took a bold leap into coaching to help others do the same.🔥 We dive deep into:✅ The hidden “golden handcuffs” of corporate life—and how to break free✅ How to advocate for yourself (without waiting for permission)✅ The real reason hard work alone won’t get you promoted✅ Career transitions & mindset shifts that open new doors✅ Why women in leadership need to embrace being "disagreeable" to succeed💡 TAKEAWAY:"Not making a choice is still a choice. If you feel stuck, ask yourself: ‘Where are the opportunities?’ Because they exist—you just have to start looking differently."📌 Key Moments:00:00 - Intro: Breaking barriers in leadership02:15 - The career trap: How people get stuck in golden handcuffs06:40 - Women in leadership: Stop waiting for permission10:20 - Self-advocacy 101: How to confidently ask for what you deserve14:50 - The mindset shift that changes everything20:30 - Career transitions: When to stay, when to move28:00 - Work-life balance: Can you have it all?35:45 - Final words of encouragement: Take control of your path🎯 Watch this if:✔️ You feel stuck in your career and need clarity on your next move✔️ You’re afraid to take risks and want to build career confidence✔️ You want to break past limiting beliefs and step into leadership🔗 Connect with Limor & Explore More:➡️ Follow Limor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/limorbergman/🎙️ Listen to her podcast "From a Woman to a Leader": https://limorbergman.com/podcast/➡️ Follow Devon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devoncoombs/devoncoombs.com👍 Like & Subscribe for more deep conversations on leadership, career growth, and personal transformation!📢 Drop a comment: What’s one career risk you wish you had taken sooner?#Leadership #CareerGrowth #WomenInTech #ExecutiveCoaching #SuccessMindset #CareerDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift