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Discover a world where everyone’s influence matters. Welcome to Daily Influence, co-hosted by Brian Smith, founder and managing partner at IA Business Advisors and author of the 'I in Team' series, along with IA Business Advisors Partner Gregg Brooke Koleno. Each day, Brian and Gregg craft episodes designed to elevate your influence and transform it into a force for positive and responsible influence.
Every episode is a journey through real-life experiences, transformative concepts, and powerful tools that help you FIND, BE & BUILD Your Influence. We aim to help you radiate your unique influence, find balance, celebrate victories, and shape your reality. The podcast highlights the art of leading yourself and those around you, remaining humble and composed, learning effectively, and embracing true diversity.
Whether you tune in during your morning coffee, mid-day break, or your evening wind-down, Daily Influence is your daily dose of inspiration and upliftment, relevant to your everyday life. The goal is not just to influence you but to equip you with insights you can share within your sphere of influence.
Join Brian and Gregg as they explore the principles and practices that align with IA Business Advisors' S.M.A.R.T. Management Consulting Methods, offering practical advice and thought-provoking discussions. Remember, it’s not just about being part of the team; it’s about finding the ‘I’ in every team.
So, listen, learn, share, and expand your influence with Daily Influence. Tune in and discover how to make your influence matter, every day.
584 Episodes
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In Episode 583 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with Cindy Capistran, Group Fitness and Small Group Training Coach and Events Coordinator at Life Time Fitness Algonquin. Cindy shares how her journey from the back row of a fitness class to the front of the stage became a lesson in confidence, authenticity, and service. She discusses the mental and emotional benefits of movement, the power of community inside the gym, and the contagious energy that comes from choosing positivity each day. Together, Brian and Cindy explore how true influence in fitness isn’t about followers or spotlight—it’s about connection, empathy, and helping others take one step forward at a time. 🎙️ Listen wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation at The I in Team Series.
It’s easy to see the faults in others—but real growth begins when we have the courage to look inward and ask, “Am I the problem?” In this episode, Brian Smith explores how self-awareness can transform negative influence into positive impact. Drawing from The I in Team Series and S.M.A.R.T. Management principles, Brian helps you identify repeating patterns, manage emotional reactions, and practice accountability without shame. Listen in to learn how reflection, emotional intelligence, and intentional resets can help you own your influence and use it for good.
What does it take to rise in a profession historically dominated by men and then create space for others to do the same? On today’s Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Vanessa Seiler, attorney, partner, and co-founder of MAS Law, an all-female boutique firm reshaping the future of law. Practicing since 1999, Vanessa shares her journey from navigating courtrooms where women were rare, to building a practice rooted in collaboration, mentorship, and integrity. In this powerful conversation, Vanessa opens up about: • Leading with honesty and respect in and out of the courtroom. • Why mentorship is more than teaching—it’s modeling, collaborating, and opening doors. • The balance between career and family in a shifting legal landscape. • How listening to other perspectives creates stronger leadership and lasting influence. Vanessa’s story is a reminder that influence isn’t always about volume—it’s about resilience, responsibility, and lifting others as you climb. Connect with Vanessa: vseiler@maslawllc.com
In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the power of writing as a tool to slow down, reflect, and lead with intention. Drawing from The I in Team Series and the S.M.A.R.T. Communication Discipline, Brian shares how writing helps transform emotion into clarity, reaction into reflection, and thought into responsible influence. Discover how just a few minutes of writing each day can calm the mind, strengthen communication, and reconnect you with your true purpose.
What does it take to thrive in a sport where opportunities are limited—and still create a legacy beyond the rink? In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Hayley Williams, a trailblazer in women’s ice hockey and founder of Hockey Worldwide Academy. From her triple-overtime championship goal as a teenager to playing professionally across North America, Russia, and Hungary, Hayley’s journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and bold leadership. She shares how living overseas shaped her perspective on teamwork, why holistic athlete development goes far beyond ice time, and what it means to positively influence the next generation of players. With stories of perseverance, including becoming the oldest rookie at the World Championships at age 31, Hayley proves that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. 🌟 In this episode: • Lessons learned from navigating international hockey and cultural barriers • The founding of Hockey Worldwide Academy and its holistic approach to training • How influence evolves from athlete to mentor to coach • Words of encouragement for anyone striving to make an impact on or off the ice 📲 Tune in for a conversation that blends grit, growth, and the power of responsible influence. Connect with Hayley: http://www.hockeyworldwide.com https://www.instagram.com/hwahockey https://www.instagram.com/hayleywilliamsathlete/
In today’s revisit of episode 326 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the challenge of finding common ground during these highly divisive times, especially as we near election season. With emotions running high across social media, at work, and in public spaces, it's crucial to take a step back and approach these conversations with empathy and understanding. Brian shares actionable tips on how to lead by example, emphasizing the importance of listening, asking intentional questions, and creating a positive ripple effect in your own areas of influence. Whether or not we ultimately agree with others, we can still foster more meaningful, respectful conversations.
In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the quiet but powerful force of decision fatigue—how too many choices drain focus, clarity, and influence. Whether you’re a leader, parent, or simply managing life’s constant decisions, fatigue can erode your judgment and relationships.
What does it really mean to have a village and how do we build one in today’s world of disconnection and busyness? On this episode of Daily Influence, host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Florence Ann Romano, nationally recognized keynote speaker, media personality, and author of Build Your Village: A Guide to Finding Joy and Community in Every Stage of Life. Florence Ann shares her journey from nanny to author and thought leader, and why she believes we are not meant to do life alone. In this conversation: • The six archetypes of villagers and how to identify who’s in your circle (and who might be missing). • Why vulnerability, reciprocity, and service are essential to authentic connection. • The biggest myths about friendship and why asking for help is not a weakness. • Practical steps for overcoming isolation and finding your place in community. Florence Ann reminds us that connection doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a choice we make daily. Whether you’re seeking deeper friendships, building support systems, or simply wanting to show up better for others, this episode will inspire you to become a more intentional villager. Connect with Florence Ann: https://florenceann.com/ https://www.instagram.com/florenceann.romano/ https://www.facebook.com/FlorenceARomano https://www.tiktok.com/@florenceann.romano https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-ann-romano-636a07377/
In this revisit of Daily Influence Episode 172 we asked, Have you been ghosted? Have you ghosted someone? Have you wondered why or what drives ghosting to happen? We have some definite opinions on the act of ghosting and how inappropriate it is in day-to-day communication. Don't let exceptions guide you here!
What happens when strategy meets spirit—and scale follows alignment? In this conversation, Camille L. Miller, transformational business strategist and founder of the Soul Professional Business School, shares how she turned a coffee-club idea into a global movement for soul-led entrepreneurs. Camille walks through her 14-week Accelerator (from concept to launch), why mindset is the true “trump card,” and how to design a business that dovetails with your life instead of competing with it. We dig into practical alignment—reading what your body’s telling you, avoiding “stacked dreams,” and using small, honest steps to build momentum. Camille also explains how values, clear vision, and the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals shape businesses that create real, positive impact. In this episode: • From nonprofit CEO to global community builder—Camille’s origin story • The 80/20 test: when fear is information and excitement is a green light • Why confidence creates cash—and how to cultivate it without empty affirmations • Designing offers around your uniqueness so there’s no competition • Breaking goals into doable steps (and why you shouldn’t wait to “earn” your life) Connect with Camille: https://www.soulprofessional.com/
In this revisit of episode 275 of The Daily Influence, Brian Smith explores the critical role that accountability plays in achieving both personal and organizational success. Accountability is more than just meeting deadlines—it's about building trust, fostering teamwork, and driving continuous improvement. Brian delves into how accountability serves as a pillar of trust within teams and highlights practical applications from the S.M.A.R.T. Management framework. Learn how to create a culture of accountability that balances support and empathy, encouraging personal responsibility while driving your organization toward excellence. Tune in to discover how implementing these strategies can help you and your team achieve your goals and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement.
Today on Daily Influence, Brian sits down with Alex Sheridan—founder of Impaxs—to unpack how companies can ditch “agency-dependence” and build a lean, authentic, in-house content engine. Alex explains why the best-performing content carries the founder’s voice, how to create a culture of storytelling across the team, and where AI helps (editing, trimming, transcribing, repurposing) without replacing your point of view. We get practical for busy owners—yes, even the “I’m a plumber, not an influencer” crowd—with simple first steps: film real work, share behind-the-scenes, and publish consistently. Alex reframes “influencer” to “key person of influence,” turning brand building into everyday business practice. Contact Alex: LinkedIn — Alex B Sheridan; Website — impaxs.com.
What happens when you throw out the slick playbook and build marketing around values, voice, and real people? Chicago-based organic SEO consultant Lauren Plug, founder of Chaotically Mindful, joins Gregg-Brooke to share how she helps sustainable and mindful brands grow without greenwashing or “tech-bro” tactics.Lauren’s journey—from copywriting to SEO to standing up for purpose-driven marketing—offers a refreshing blueprint: slow down to speed up, keep mission in the room, and let authenticity guide the strategy. She breaks down common traps (scientific jargon, condescension, eco-perfectionism, and vague green claims) and shows how to replace them with clear language, consistent touchpoints, and search strategies that actually fit your brand.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How to balance chaos and intention so creativity (and results) can breathe• Practical ways to align SEO with your mission—without sacrificing performance• A simple cadence that works: alternating mission-led and SEO-led content until they converge• Why “your website is your platform” and how to use it to tell your sustainability story• The mindset shift purpose-led founders need to market ethically and make moneyConnect with Lauren:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-plug/
In this revisit to Episode 399 of the Daily Influence, Brian S. Smith delves into the evolving landscape of remote and hybrid work. He explores the challenges organizations face, from siloed employees to accountability issues, and presents the S.M.A.R.T. Management framework as the solution. Discover how to balance flexibility with accountability, foster trust-driven leadership, and build meaningful team connections to create a sustainable and productive work environment. Whether you're embracing remote work or considering hybrid models, this episode provides actionable insights for success.
In this inspiring episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Erin Herman, keynote speaker, storyteller, and advocate for stepping boldly beyond your comfort zone. From a career in global sales to leading corporate partnerships for UNICEF and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Erin’s journey is a testament to courage, empathy, and growth. She shares how a simple weekly email to her team became a powerful reminder of the unseen impact of consistent, intentional communication and how that spark ignited her mission to inspire audiences worldwide. Erin opens up about playing big in the workplace, creating a positive culture around failure, and teaching women to own their voices unapologetically. Whether you lead a small team or dream of influencing on a global stage, Erin’s stories and strategies will remind you that change starts with one voice and the ripple effect can be extraordinary. Connect with Erin: www.TheErinHerman.com https://www.instagram.com/eebherm/ https://www.tiktok.com/@_erin111 https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-herman-97832217/ https://www.facebook.com/erin.beaton.18
In this revisit to episode 320 of the Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into the challenges leaders face during times of uncertainty and disruption. He shares three key strategies to navigate these turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of understanding each team member's unique contributions, aligning those talents with a shared vision, and embracing the S.M.A.R.T. management model to maintain focus. Brian also highlights the value of transparent communication and empathetic leadership in building trust and resilience within your team. Tune in to learn how to turn disruption into an opportunity for growth and improvement.
In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith sits down with Bob Green, founder of Evoke Growth, to explore what he calls the “Ownership Trap.” Bob shares powerful insights into how business owners—especially those leading family and legacy companies—can avoid getting stuck in day-to-day isolation and identity struggles. Together, they discuss how to preserve tradition and values while embracing innovation, how to balance legacy with financial realities, and why succession and generational leadership are critical to long-term success. Listeners will gain practical ways to reframe ROI beyond money, engage teams through storytelling and collaboration, and learn how to “think like private equity and act with heart.” If you’ve ever wondered how to grow with intention while protecting what matters most, this conversation is for you.https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgreenteamshttps://evokegrowth.com/bob@evokegrowth.com
Host Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Jayson Mamaclay, Vice President at Norman Professional Services (NPS), to explore how entrepreneurs can take off the armor, get honest about money, and design a business that truly serves their lives. Jayson’s path, from PwC CPA to organizational design and DEI work, to escape-room owner and Goldman Sachs 10KSB alum, now fuels his mission at NPS: helping owners align the pro forma with the personal “why.” Together, we dig into treating your company as an asset that should create value, freedom, and joy; using a clear North Star to reverse-engineer decisions; and unlearning the “grow at all costs” myth in favor of a business that fits your family and legacy. Jayson also shares why early succession and exit planning preserves both momentum and meaning. Outside the office, Jayson volunteers with Games Done Quick, whose latest marathon raised $2.4M for Doctors Without Borders, a masterclass in teamwork, shared mission, and community impact. He leaves listeners with a powerful charge: your influence is a +1 fingerprint—make it intentional. You’ll learn: • How to build numbers around your values, not just your revenue goals • A practical way to architect your dream business (and spot misalignment) • Why succession planning should start while you still love the work • Community lessons from large-scale philanthropy you can apply to your team Connect with Jayson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaysonmamaclay/
Hope is a powerful starting point—it sparks the vision of what we want to achieve. But hope alone isn’t enough. In this episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith unpacks the journey from hope to goals to action. Using the SMART Management lens, he shows how to transform hope into measurable progress and meaningful improvement. Learn how to avoid getting stuck in wishing, and instead move with clarity, accountability, and influence toward real, lasting change.
In this episode of Daily Influence, Gregg-Brooke Koleno sits down with Renee Beckman — executive recruiter, entrepreneur, and founder of the WISE Tribe — a movement dedicated to supporting women in the workplace and advancing mental wellness. Renee shares her journey from CPA to recruiter to passionate advocate, revealing the personal stories that inspired her to create a platform where women can find mentorship, community, and resources for thriving in their careers. From tackling the taboo around mental health, to equipping women with tools for difficult conversations, to embracing personal responsibility as the catalyst for workplace change, Renee offers a compelling vision for more inclusive, supportive, and empowered professional environments. Whether you’re a leader, a peer, or someone seeking to make a positive difference, her insights will challenge you to listen more deeply, lead with authenticity, and give generously without expectation. Connect with Renee: beckmanr@limitlessrecruit.com www.mseedinc.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-beckman/
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