Decidedly I Decision Tips for Business Owners

Think body language is just about crossed arms and forced smiles? Think again. After years spent catching spies and decoding body language, Joe Navarro reveals how the smallest cues can uncover the biggest truths. From subtle tells that exposed Soviet operatives to pinpointing the hidden leader in any room, Joe offers a masterclass in seeing what others miss. If you’ve ever underestimated the power of nonverbal cues—or the cost of ignoring them—this episode will make you rethink everything you see, from business meetings to casual conversations.   KEY TOPICS How subtle cues can reveal what people won’t say out loud. How the physical setup of a space, like a waiting room, can create or diminish psychological comfort. Why humans instinctively cover their eyes when they’re stressed. How setting the pace—consciously or unconsciously—defines who leads a room.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business 00:49 First Impressions 03:10 Recruited by the FBI at 22 07:48 Catching Spies with Cultural Cues 10:00 FBI Reality vs. TV Dramas 12:18 How Body Language Reveals the Truth 17:05 The Bouquet That Exposed a Spy 21:52 Travel’s Secret to Sharpening Leadership 26:29 Human Instincts That Signal Stress 31:05 Bill Gates’ Handshake Fail 35:51 Why AI Can’t Read Human Behavior 40:35 The Truth About Lie Detectors 47:38 Creating Comfort to Influence Decisions 52:10 Winning Negotiations with Ease 56:57 Joe Navarro’s Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners  58:03 Key Takeaways  59:50 Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠      CONNECT WITH JOE NAVARRO Website: www.jnforensics.com Books: https://www.jnforensics.com/books YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joenavarrobehaviorexpert     Personally approached at the tender age of 23 to join the FBI, Joe Navarro became one of the youngest agents ever to join the renowned investigative agency. He went on to spend the next 25 years at the FBI, working both as an agent and supervisor in the areas of counterintelligence and counterterrorism. Through his work he was able to study, refine and apply the science of nonverbal communications. His acumen in this field and his success as a spy-catcher, led Joe to train FBI agents and the intelligence community.    Retiring from the FBI in 2003 and meeting overwhelming demand for his notable insights into human behavior, Joe has dedicated himself to speaking and consulting with major corporations worldwide.  Since retiring, he has authored 14 books in 29 languages dealing with human behavior and body language.  He is the author of the International Bestseller “Be Exceptional” and His book “What Every BODY is Saying,” remains after a decade, the #1 selling body-language book in the world. 

What would happen if you did a gratitude practice before opening each meeting? Are mindfulness practices a fluffy waste of time? Michael O’Brien suffered a personal tragedy that caused him to reset how he thinks about his beliefs, and how he utilizes his energy in daily life. Today, he shares the power of recognizing that everything in life is neutral until we label it…and how the labels we choose shape our perceptions.KEY TOPICS- Why leaders struggle to celebrate their wins (and what to do about it.)- How implementing mindfulness into daily routines increases productivity.- The consequences our minds and bodies face when we approach life with pessimism.- How to stop self-sabotaging your days.SUBSCRIBEhttps://www.youtube.com/@decidedlypodcast?sub_confirmation=1CHAPTERS00:00 Mission of Decidedly00:51 Sanger & Shawn’s Scar Stories03:21 Introducing Michael O’Brien04:43 If Your Default is Pessimism07:50 Michael’s Car Accident15:17 “You’re Husband’s Not Gonna Make It”23:40 Reframing Your Thoughts30:53 Mindset Training34:16 Deciding to Respond, Not React41:00 Mindfulness Tips for Business50:26 Pressure Testing Your Thoughts1:03:42 Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners1:05:42 Key Takeaways1:07:17 Producer ClosingMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEEp.54 I Dandapani I Deciding to Have Unwavering Focus: Insights from a Former Monk - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4UIoKAIBY7yzoKM0ABNtJwCONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcastShawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOKA Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ - https://www.amazon.com/Life-Rich-Significance-Transforming-Meaningful/dp/1952654769 SHAWN’S BOOKPlateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ - https://www.amazon.com/Plateau-Jumping-What-Change-When-ebook/dp/B0CTXHP5HR MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠ CONNECT WITH MICHAEL O’BRIENWebsite: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/ Instagram: @pausebreathereflect LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoachingThe Ripple Effect Newsletter: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/newsletter/The Kintsugi Podcast: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/kintsugi-podcast/Michael is a qualified meditation teacher, executive coach, and endurance athlete. He loves helping people accomplish hard things through mindfulness. He’s a survivor of a horrific near-death cycling accident called his Last Bad Day and years in the corporate executive suite and in 2022 used the power of mindfulness to ride his bike across America.

What happens when you stop playing by the rules and start asking better questions? Where’s the line between healthy dissent and chaos — and why do the best leaders welcome a little pushback? Psychologist and researcher Dr. Todd Kashdan joins us to make the case for principled insubordination — and why compliance culture kills innovation. We’re breaking down how to lead curious teams, challenge bad ideas without blowing things up, and create the kind of environment where the smartest voices aren’t the quietest ones.KEY TOPICSWhy curiosity is inefficient — and why that’s a good thing.The danger of compliance culture in leadership.When “too agreeable” becomes your company’s biggest risk.The art of asking better questions (and why most people don’t).SUBSCRIBEhttps://www.youtube.com/@decidedlypodcast?sub_confirmation=1CHAPTERS(00:01) When rebels outperform rule-followers(01:19) Skipping the meeting — and still winning(02:05) The problem with obedience culture(05:56) Why Dr. Kashdan left Wall Street for psychology(07:13) Anxiety, self-awareness, and bad leadership(08:36) Purpose as a cure for social anxiety(10:51) Social skills we lost during COVID(13:47) Are we overusing the word “bullying”?(14:42) You need stress to build strength(16:07) Why popular kids sometimes peak in high school(17:36) The confidence gap nobody talks about(19:30) Why honest feedback is so rare(22:17) Sarcasm, teasing, and intimacy(25:03) How curiosity actually builds connection(29:43) Don’t Google it: The social power of not knowing(32:42) Curiosity vs. the shortcut mindset(34:41) The link between curiosity and memory(36:17) Why some people just aren’t curious(38:24) Curiosity is inefficient — and that’s the point(40:14) The risk of staying “safe” in leadership(43:58) The freshman year lesson that changed everything(45:47) Tailoring leadership to your team(47:46) Smart rebels vs. loose cannons(49:24) When curiosity backfires at work(51:20) Why some employees stop sharing ideas(53:29) How to disagree without blowing things up(56:19) The decision-making checklist your team needs(58:09) Defensive pessimism: The plan B mindset(60:05) Dr. Todd Kashdan's top decision-making tip for business ownersCONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcastShawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.SANGER’S BOOKA Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Rich-Significance-Transforming-Meaningful/dp/1952654769 SHAWN’S BOOKPlateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Plateau-Jumping-What-Change-When-ebook/dp/B0CTXHP5HR MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠ CONNECT WITH DR. TODD KASHDANNewsletter: https://toddkashdan.substack.com/about Website: https://toddkashdan.com/ The Well-Being Lab (download articles here!): https://toddkashdan.com/well-being-lab/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddkashdan Instagram: @toddkashdan X: @toddkashdan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/public/Todd-Kashdan Psychology Today Blog: psychologytoday.com/blog/curious Books: https://toddkashdan.com/books/

Have you wondered if the education system is actually preparing the next generation to lead? Do you question whether *real* learning happens within the confines of a classroom? What if the very foundation of how we’ve been taught to think is broken?Matt Beaudreau is on a mission to rebuild the way we raise young people into impactful adults. Through his educational program, Apogee Strong, he’s empowering young people to break free from the limits of the traditional school system and become true leaders—starting with responsibility, character, and action. In this episode, we explore why real education isn't taught in classrooms and how Matt's approach is redefining what it means to be “ready for the real world.” KEY TOPICSHow to break free from the conformity of the education system to create effective leaders.What we all need to unlearn from the broken school system we grew up in.The value of questioning authority, and what that looks like when done effectively.Why real-world experiences educate to a higher degree of success than a classroom ever will. CHAPTERS00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business03:15 Lessons from "Wasting" Time08:45 Freedom Within Structure12:30 Introducing Matt Beaudreau17:50 From Public School to Revolution: Building New Education Systems23:10 Education Failures: More Than Just Bad Grades30:00 Meta Skills: The Missing Link in Education35:45 Why Academia Isn't the Answer: Real Education Starts Here42:00 Leadership by Example: Matt’s Approach to Raising Strong Men48:30 How to Foster Responsibility in Students54:15 The Role of Entrepreneurship in Education1:00:00 The Power of Mentorship in Youth Programs1:05:20 Empowering Students Through Choice and Consequence1:10:45 The Future of Education: Matt’s Vision1:16:30 Final Thoughts: How to Rebuild Education Systems That Work CONNECT WITH US⁠⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube⁠Subscribe on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠⁠Shawn’s ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠⁠  FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠⁠    CONNECT WITH MATT BEAUDREAUWebsites: ⁠https://apogeestrong.com⁠ // ⁠https://apogeepays.com⁠Instagram: @mattbeaudreau // @apogeeprogramThe Essential 11 Podcast: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0hh0o1PvIC8c4fE2Wv6LiF⁠ Matt founded Acton Academy Placer Schools, using the Socratic method to foster self-directed, independent young leaders. He also co-founded Apogee Strong, a mentorship program for young men, and launched the Apogee Strong Dads Program in 2023. His podcast, The Essential 11, provides leadership insights from global experts. Additionally, Matt founded the Apogee Strong Foundation, offering scholarships to young men for educational and leadership opportunities.Matt Beaudreau is a renowned keynote speaker, consultant, and coach, working with clients like Wells Fargo, Honeywell, and the U.S. Air Force. A two-time TEDx speaker and former Corporate Trainer of the Year at Stanford University, he has spoken to over 250,000 people worldwide.

What do you do with fear that isn’t going away?Akshay Nanavati has walked ahead of Humvees looking for bombs in Iraq, dragged a 400-pound sled across Antarctica, and spent ten days in complete darkness—all in pursuit of one thing: a better relationship with fear. In this episode, heand Sanger talk about the difference between fear and danger, how most of us distract ourselves to avoid stillness, and why “good vibes only” is bad advice.They get into survivors’ guilt, the psychology of endurance, and what to do with emotions that won’t go away. KEY TOPICSHow survivor’s guilt after war became fuel for Akshay’s purpose.10 days in total darkness: What happens when you sit alone with your thoughts.Why the solitude of Antarctica was harder than the cold.What you learn about yourself when your body gives out before your mind. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decisions in Life & Business00:51 – Letting Go to Move Forward03:13 – What to Do When You’re Not the Expert04:49 – Introducing Akshay Nanavati05:18 – A Job No One Wants: Clearing Bombs in Iraq07:35 – The Danger of Getting Comfortable09:49 – Training to Be Brave: Skydiving, Climbing & Confronting Fear12:03 – The Price of Courage: How Fear Builds Virtue14:27 – Praying for Patience... and Getting It16:53 – Fear Propels Preparation 18:33 – How the Dalai Lama Ended Up Writing His Foreword21:33 – Fear Is the Gateway to Growth, Not the Enemy23:56 – Turning Survivor’s Guilt Into Purpose26:20 – The Thought Isn’t the Problem—It’s What You Do With It28:41 – Addiction, Rock Bottom, and the Decision to Get Still31:02 – Why Most People Are Scared of Stillness33:23 – Learning to Sit With the Unanswered Questions35:49 – What a Darkness Retreat Actually Looks Like38:09 – Stillness vs. Doing Nothing 40:22 – 60 Days Alone in Antarctica 42:43 – When the Math No Longer Works, But You Keep Going45:08 – Cutting Weight, Cutting Tags, Cutting Toothbrushes47:21 – When the Body Breaks Before the Mind49:41 – Losing Fingers for the Sake of Purpose51:55 – The Price of Frostbite and the Power of Reframing54:12 – It’s So Hot in Antarctica... in a Tent?56:34 – Fearing Failure—and Why That’s a Good Thing58:57 – How to Know Which Fear Is Worth Facing01:01:21 – Decision Tip: Think in Versions, Not Pass/Fail01:01:55 – Where to Connect with Akshay Nanavati01:02:15 – Key Takeaways01:03:05 – Message from the Producer  FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeInstagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠  CONNECT WITH AKSHAY NANAVATIBook: https://www.amazon.com/FEARVANA-Revolutionary-Science-Health-Happiness/dp/1630476056/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0Website: https://fearvana.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/fearvanaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearvana Akshay Nanavati is a Marine veteran who walked roads ahead of convoys looking for bombs, overcame PTSD and addiction, and now intentionally seeks out the toughest physical and mental challenges on earth—including dragging a 420-pound sled alone across Antarctica. 

Is it possible to become the man you never had as a role model?Ryan Michler didn’t grow up with a blueprint for manhood—but that didn’t stop him from building one. He and Sanger talk about why so many men feel aimless and how stepping up—not faking it—is the way out. They talk about the appeal of distractions like sports and alcohol, the discomfort of starting from zero, and the kind of fulfillment that comes from actually doing hard things. KEY TOPICSWhy men substitute purpose with stats, screens, and manufactured intimacy.What happens when young men admire risk—and older men discourage it.How men get mocked both for not knowing—and for trying to learn.Why it’s better to take a first step than wait for certainty. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decisions in Life & Business00:50 – Learning by Failing on a Ski Trip03:18 – Meet Ryan Michler: Founder of Order of Man04:20 – Growing Up Without a Present Dad06:48 – Can You Still Learn Manhood as an Adult?08:27 – Why Men Hide What They Don’t Know09:14 – The Catch-22 of Men Asking for Help10:51 – Why Not Knowing Feels Like a Threat11:38 – How Ego Blocks Growth13:43 – Finding Mentors & Letting Go of Pride16:08 – Why Ryan Walked Away from His Firm18:26 – Taking the Leap Toward Autonomy20:53 – Rebuilding on Your Own Terms23:09 – Why Advice Often Reflects Regret25:33 – Vested Interests & Biased Guidance27:46 – Seeking Deeper Purpose in Friendships29:49 – Choosing Relationships Intentionally31:03 – Escaping Into Sports When Life Lacks Purpose34:42 – False Meaning in Porn, Alcohol, & Ego37:02 – What Are You Escaping From?39:22 – Balance Is a Constant Act41:45 – Why Fulfillment Beats Happiness44:09 – You Don’t Find Purpose—You Build It46:25 – Podcasting & the Birth of Order of Man48:50 – Try What Interests You (Without Attachments)51:11 – Ryan’s Battle Plan: 4 Areas of Purpose53:13 – Decision Tip: Find Someone Who’s Done It53:21 – Where to Connect with Ryan Michler 54:15 – Key Takeaways 54:50 – Message from the Producer  FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠  CONNECT WITH RYAN MICHLERWebsite: https://orderofman.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanmichler & https://www.instagram.com/orderofman/Order of Man Podcast: https://orderofman.com/podcast-2/Sovereignty: The Battle for the Hearts and Minds of Men: https://store.orderofman.com/collections/planners-and-journals/products/sovereignty-signed-copy?_gl=1*of6zq8*_gcl_au*NDMyNjcwMTcuMTc0MjMyNzQ5Ng..*_ga*MTY3ODY4MTk5LjE3Mzg1OTM0NTU.*_ga_MHSG4VQ94E*MTc0MjQxNjk5NC40LjEuMTc0MjQxNzQwMS4wLjAuMA  Ryan Michler unapologetically harnesses the authentic masculinity modern culture has lost. He challenges men to reject complacency, reclaim clarity, and boldly lead at home, in business, and in their communities through Order of Man.

How much of your time is actually yours?Jamie Hopkins is back, and we’re breaking down what it takes to run a company without letting it run your life. He cuthis travel by 90%, began coaching his kids’ sports teams, and took on a bigger leadership role in business—all by making one critical decision.We’re also talking about the kind of curiosity that makes or breaks leaders, how most CEOs sabotage themselves, andhow the best ones build teams that don’t fall apart without them. KEY TOPICSWhat leaving the work phone in another room does for your family.What a $1.50 hot dog taught a five-star restaurant about service.What happens when leaders delay firing—or promoting—people.How vulnerability helps you build real customer relationships. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life & Business00:49 – How the Zoo Made Me a Better Leader05:06 – Jamie Hopkins on Balancing Business & Family06:55 – Leaving a Big Firm to Put Family First09:15 – Coaching Kids Sports11:35 – The Two-Phone Strategy for CEOs13:55 – Avoiding Phone Distractions16:12 – CEO Work-Life Balance: Does It Exist?18:32 – How to Delegate More21:24 – Overworking is a Trap23:37 – Fitness, Leadership & Avoiding Burnout25:50 – What Makes a Great Financial Advisor?28:09 – Building Client Trust30:27 – Why Clients Stay (or Leave)32:49 – Standing Out in a Crowded Market35:08 – Competing on Service38:25 – How Listening Gains More Clients40:32 – Small Gestures That Build Loyalty42:54 – Sales Lessons from an FBI Negotiator45:20 – Being a Curious Leader47:42 – 80/20 Rule for Better Conversations49:25 – Jamie’s Top Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners53:20 – Where to Connect with Jamie Hopkins54:15 – Key Takeaways54:49 – Message from the Producer  Ep.120 I Deciding for What’s Next: Navigating Life’s Biggest Transitions with Jamie Hopkins  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeInstagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast⁠Facebook⁠Sanger’s ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠  CONNECT WITH JAMIE HOPKINSBryn Mawr Trust: https://www.bmt.com/FinServ Foundation: https://finservfoundation.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehopkinsfinancialservices/ Jamie Hopkins is an expert in retirementplanning for business owners. He’s a Wall Street Journal best-selling author and regular contributor for Forbes and InvestmentNews on Retirement Income Planning. He is also the CEO of Bryn Mawr Capital Management and Chief Wealth Officer at Bryn Mawr Trust. 

Building a brand is about more than having a great product—it’s about getting people to believe in it. Brian Smith, founder of UGG, knows this firsthand. What started as a niche surf product exploded into a globalphenomenon, but the real challenges came with scaling, staying ahead of competitors, and making the tough call to sell.In this episode, Brian shares the behind-the-scenes realities of growing a brand, navigating financial hurdles, and adapting to industry shifts. He unpacks the unexpected marketing move that changed everything, how he handled rapid expansion, and why the Oprah effect took UGG to an entirely new level. KEY TOPICSWhy fast-growing companies constantly need more money and how to prepare for it.How to build customer loyalty so strong that people market your product for you.The key decision that helped UGG stay ahead of copycats.How Brian Smith knew it was time to sell UGG. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life & Business06:15 – Brian Smith Returns: The Founder of UGG07:50 – How UGG Started: From Accountant to Entrepreneur10:12 – The First Sales Strategy That Completely Flopped12:31 – Struggles of Selling a New Product14:50 – The Sales Tactic That Changed Everything17:16 – Building Customer Loyalty19:12 – How Branding Decisions Can Make or Break a Business21:32 – Authentic Marketing: Why It Works23:48 – Expanding Beyond Surf Shops: Finding New Markets26:10 – How UGG Became a Status Symbol28:34 – What Most Business Owners Get Wrong About Growth30:55 – Why Scaling Almost Destroyed UGG33:19 – The Reality of Raising Capital 35:45 – Managing Investors & The Cost of Business Growth38:08 – Learning from Richard Branson: The Endless Need for Capital40:36 – Preparing to Sell UGG: The Decision to Exit42:59 – Negotiating the Sale: Finding the Right Buyer45:18 – Toxic Business Partners 47:45 – Corporate Takeover: What Happens After You Sell50:02 – The New Broom Syndrome: When a Brand Loses Its Identity52:28 – The Oprah Effect: UGG’s Biggest Growth Moment53:27 – Brian’s Top Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners55:59 – Where to Connect with Brian Smith56:13 – Key Takeaways57:53 – Message from the Producer  SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠  CONNECT WITH BRIAN SMITHWebsite: https://briansmithspeaker.com/“The Birth of a Brand” (Brian’s book): https://www.amazon.com/Birth-Brand-Brian-Smith/dp/1582705356/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461080262&sr=8-1&keywords=birth+of+a+brandLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansmithuggfounder/Instagram: @briansmithugg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrianSmithUGGFounder/ Graduating in 1978 as a Chartered Accountant in Australia, Brian came to California looking for the next big opportunity to bring back to Australia.  While studying at the UCLA Graduate School ofManagement he observed that there was no sheepskin footwear in the US.  With only $500 in capital, he imported bootsamples and built the UGG Australia brand into a multi-million-dollar international enterprise. He sold in 1995, and the brand has continued to grow to exceed a billion dollars in annual sales.

Everyone preaches discipline as the key to getting more done—but what if it’s actually slowing you down?Craig Ballantyne coaches top entrepreneurs,and he argues that discipline alone won’t make you or your business productive.In this episode, we’re breaking down why most business owners waste time on the wrong things, and how to structure your day for real progress.If you’re working all day but still feel behind, this conversation will shift the way you think about productivity and discipline. KEY TOPICSHow “I’ll just do it myself” drains people and ruins businesses.The cost of ignoring energy management: How sleep, nutrition, and environment impact decision-making.Parenting as an entrepreneur: Balancing work, family, and your health without sacrificing what matters.The dark side of discipline: When too much structure and routine start working against you. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life& Business02:00 – The Car Sales Trick That Sells TwoCars at Once05:15 – Craig Ballantyne on Building Your Discipline07:40 – Why New Parents Lose Their Habits (and How to Get Them Back)10:30 – The #1 Strategy to Reduce Stress as a Parent12:45 – How High Performers Maximize Time15:20 – The Secret to “FindingTime”18:05 – How Smart Entrepreneurs Plan Their Day21:40 –Why You’re Stuck in aProductivity Trap24:50 –Why More Hours Won’t Fix Your Business28:15 – The 80/20 Rule: How to Work Less and Make More31:05 – Delegating in Your Business34:30 – Why Sheer Grit Won’t Save You 37:50 – The Biggest Mistake Entrepreneurs Make in Goal-Setting40:15 – Deadlines: Why You Need to Set a Date for Every Goal42:40 – How to Make Discipline Effortless with This 3-Step System45:20 – The Five Words That Are Killing Your Business Growth48:10 – The Decision-Making Hack That Saves Time50:15 – Craig’s Top Decision-Making Tip forBusiness Owners51:26 – Where to Connect with Craig Ballantyne51:59 – Key Takeaways53:17 – Message from the Producer  SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠  SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠  CONNECT WITH CRAIG BALLANTYNEWebsite:  https://www.craigballantyne.com/Craig’s New Book, The Dark Side of Discipline: Stop Chasing. Suffer Less. Achieve More.: https://darksideofdiscipline.com/ Craig Ballantyne is known as the "World’s Most Disciplined Man" and is a business coach for high performing entrepreneurs who want to go to the next level. His previous books include The Perfect Day Formula, The Perfect Week Formula, and his Wall Street Journal best seller, Unstoppable. He was also the creator of the Turbulence Training fitness system and owns EarlyToRise.com.

Confidence is essential in business, but unchecked overconfidence? That’s where things fall apart. Don Moore, a leading expert on decision science, breaks down why most people—especially successful ones—tend to be too sure of themselves in areas they know little about. We dig into why business owners struggle to evaluate risk, why past wins can make you blind to future mistakes, and how probabilistic thinking can keep you from making overconfident (and expensive) decisions. KEY TOPICSHow the sunk cost fallacy keeps business owners stuck in failing ventures.How market predictions based on ‘gut feeling’ often backfire.What AI reveals about human overconfidence.Why your biggest blind spots exist in areas where you think you’re most knowledgeable. ⁠SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER⁠CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating bad decision-making in life & business02:00 – Why new parents are overconfident05:30 – The Dunning-Kruger effect in parenting and beyond07:40 – What is over-precision, and why does it matter?12:20 – The dangers of overconfidence in business and investing16:55 – Why successful people struggle with decision-making19:20 – The power of having language for decision-making biases21:45 – How thinking in probabilities leads to better choices24:05 – Market predictions, uncertainty, and decision paralysis26:20 – How hobbies and competition keep us humble28:50 – The behaviors that make people more (or less) overconfident31:05 – The surprising gift of criticism33:25 – Parenting, teenage rebellion, and overconfidence36:50 – Overconfidence in parenting decisions39:10 – Avoiding regret and learning from imperfect decisions41:20 – Why most people misinterpret their financial wins43:45 – Is AI overconfident? The risk of machine-generated certainty46:00 – The problem with certainty in AI, investing, and life48:30 – Why demanding 100% certainty keeps you stuck50:30 – What Sanger has learned from hosting Decidedly55:10 – The importance of embracing uncertainty in business and life57:35 – Don’s top decision-making tip for business owners57:47 – Where to connect with Don Moore58:16 – Key Takeaways59:29 – Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK:⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ CONNECT WITH DON MOOREDon’s Faculty Website: https://haas.berkeley.edu/faculty/moore-don/ Don’s Lab Website: https://learnmoore.org/ X: @donandrewmoore LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-moore-01725b/ Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B083M5M6X4/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=54bc4249-8552-4de4-bbed-b4ac6d41d5ec&ref_=ap_rdr  Don Moore holds the Lorraine Tyson Mitchell Chair in Leadership at the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley. His research interests include overconfidence, including when people think they are better than they actually are, when people think they are better than others, and when they are too sure they know the truth.  He is only occasionally overconfident.  Expertise and Research Interests Ethical Choice Decision-Making Overconfidence Negotiation

How do you know if you’re being persistent or simply wasting your time?Dr. Art Markman joins us to break down how our brains process disappointment, why we misjudge sunk costs, and how different personality types handle setbacks. Whether it’s a business decision, a personal goal, or even a high school football career you should’ve walked away from sooner, this conversation will help you fine-tune your ability to know when to keep going—and when to move on. KEY TOPICSWhy the “never quit” mindset can backfire—and when it’s smarter to walk away.How the sunk cost fallacy traps people in bad jobs, relationships, and investments.Why overcommitting to work can be a sign of misplaced priorities.How urgency changes decision-making (and what that means for business owners). CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life & Business00:49 – The Wildest Celebrity Family Secret?05:42 – How Self-Awareness Saves You from Bad Choices08:06 – Are You Setting Yourself Up for Disappointment?12:54 – Regret vs. Disappointment: What’s the Difference?15:17 – The Real Reason People Defend Bad Decisions17:39 – When to Push Through vs. When to Quit20:44 – The Sunk Cost Trap: Are You Stuck?24:23 – How Tragedy Changes Our Beliefs Instantly29:40 – Why Straight-A Students Struggle in the Real World32:57 – The Key Skill That Determines Career Success38:25 – The Most Underrated Advantage in Business44:41 – What Motivates You? You Might Be Wrong50:55 – The Secret to Making Better Financial Decisions56:06 – The One Question to Ask Before Any Big Purchase 01:00:19 – Art’s Top Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners01:01:30 – Where to Connect with Dr. Art Markman01:02:10 – Key Takeaways01:03:41 – Message from the Producer  SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK:⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ CONNECT WITH DR. ART MARKMANTwo Guys on Your Head Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4WzHJK1SzAryo21JonpZoYLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-markman-93aa6a22Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ArtMarkmanPhD/X: @AbmarkmanBooks: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B005L52EOO/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=4d56c521-f041-409e-9997-f782b942bf8b&ref_=ap_rdrBlog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/ulterior-motives Art Markman is the Annabel Irion Worsham Centennial Professor of Psychology, Human Dimensions of Organizations, and Marketing and Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. He has written over 150 research papers on topics including reasoning, decision making, and motivation. He brings insights from cognitive science to a broader audience through his blogs at Psychology Today and Fast Company as well as his radio show/podcast Two Guys on Your head. He is the author of several books including Smart Thinking, Smart Change, Brain Briefs, and Bring Your Brain to Work.

Why do we justify bad decisions—even when we know better?From business to parenting to the worst excuses people use to defend bad habits, this episode breaks down why we rationalize dumb decisions. They get into why work-from-home isn’t always the dream people claim, the myth of “Fed is Best” among new parents, and why bad customer service is usually due to bad leadership. KEY TOPICSWork-from-home reality check: is it better, or have we convinced ourselves?Why McDonald’s salads were a terrible idea (and what businesses should learn from it).Three ways to compete in business—why you can only pick two.How people justify bad decisions: The “Fed is Best” mindset CHAPTERS[00:00] Intro: Defeating BadDecision-Making in Life & Business[00:49] –The Bank Nightmare ThatWouldn’t End[03:14] –Why Are Big Companies So Bad at Fixing Simple Problems?[05:42] –The Customer Service Mistake That Creates More Problems[08:06] – The Work-From-Home Lie No One Wants to Admit[10:30] –“Fed Is Best” and Other Excuses for Bad Decisions[12:54] –Why We Defend Choices We Know Are Wrong[15:17] –The Truth About Trade-Offs (And Why We Ignore Them)[17:39] –The Business Lesson Hidden in Bad Movie Reviews[20:05] –The Real Reason Some Movies Get Terrible Ratings[22:31] –Are Critics Lying? The Secret Behind Audience Scores[24:56] –How to Tell Instantly If a Movie Is Worth Watching[27:12] –The “Beautiful vs. Tacky” Test for Business & Life[29:33] –The Biggest Branding Mistake Companies Make[31:48] –Why You Should Brag About Your Weaknesses[32:48] –Message from the Producer SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on⁠YouTubeJoin us on⁠Instagram⁠:@decidedlypodcastJoin us on⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s⁠Instagram⁠:@shawn_d_smithSanger’s⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith  Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK:⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK:⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making asthe foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families topurposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thrivinglegacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠

What makes something worth remembering? Sanger and Shawn break down why grit and a little discomfort create the most memorable experiences, whether it's backpacking or making even the most boring sports fun. If you’ve ever wondered why some moments stick with you and others fade away, this episode will change how you approach decision-making, adventures, and how you play.   KEY TOPICS How over-planning ruins adventure (and why Sanger hates your itinerary.) The first podcast idea that never made it…but somehow had merch. The secret to making anything fun. “Did you win?” Why Shawn asked this question every day of Sanger’s childhood.   CHAPTERS [00:00] Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life & Business [00:49] – Why Having No Agenda Can Be a Good Thing [01:31] – The Podcast That Almost Was: Our First Concept & Why We Ditched It [04:08] – Over-Planning vs. Going with the Flow [05:29] – How Over-Planning Can Backfire in Business & Life [06:38] – The Enchanted Rock Cave Adventure: How Over-Preparation Ruins the Excitement [08:15] – How to be Spontaneous [09:42] – Finding an Abandoned Cabin: Problem-Solving Under Pressure [14:10] – Why More People Should Adopt a Nonchalant Approach [18:09] – Winning vs. Participation Trophies [20:41] – The Death of Baseball? Why America’s Moved On [22:33] – What Makes or Breaks Entertainment [25:35] – The Golden Rule of Aesthetics: Be Beautiful or Be Ugly, Never In-Between [27:25] – 30A Music Festival, Drunk Backflips, & Unexpected Life Lessons [29:02] – Key Takeaway [29:32] – Message from the Producer ⁠SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER⁠   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠

What happens when poor training leads to high-stakes mistakes? Adam Haidary went from patrolling the streets to reshaping law enforcement—training officers to perform at their peak, saving lives with groundbreaking programs, and exposing the raw realities of life on the frontlines. In this episode, he dives into why poor training in high-stress environments can lead to catastrophic decisions. Whether it's law enforcement or business, the principles of preparation, clear communication, and solid decision-making are universal.   KEY TOPICS The principle every business owner should steal from elite combat training. The one thing that separates confident officers from those who freeze in a crisis. How understanding human aggression makes you a better leader. Why most people’s self-defense plan is a dangerous fantasy.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life & Business 00:49 The First Weeks of Fatherhood & a Scary NICU Experience 03:17 Reframing Struggles & the Power of Perspective 05:26 Meet Adam Haidary: From Cop to Business Owner 07:53 The Dangerous Gaps in Law Enforcement Training 10:14 The Pay Problem: Underpaid Officers, Undertrained Departments 12:35 The Soft Skills Crisis in Policing 15:00 The High Turnover & Low Standards Problem 17:22 A Masterclass in De-escalation 19:41 Confidence Over Ego: How Physical Training Reduces Overreactions 22:09 A Road Rage Incident: How Staying Calm Prevented a Fight 24:37 Why Being Physically Prepared Helps You Avoid Violence 27:06 Picking Your Battles: When Officers Should Walk Away 29:30 The Taser Myth: Why It Fails 50% of the Time 31:54 The Problem with Pepper Spray & Batons 34:19 The Reality of Close Combat & Why Pain Compliance Fails 36:43 The Weapon Dilemma: When to Engage vs. Disengage 39:09 The Canine Advantage: Why Police Dogs Are So Effective 41:37 What Most People Get Wrong About Guard Dogs 43:49 The Difference Between Working Dogs & Pets 46:09 Why Retired Working Dogs Struggle Without a Purpose 48:29 Training That Saves Lives: The Impact of Adam’s Work 50:54 The Fastest Way to Build Combat Proficiency 53:20 The Importance of Pressure Testing in Law Enforcement Training 55:48 How One Police Department Cut Use-of-Force Incidents by 80% 58:11 The Data Behind Better Police Training & Fewer Shootings 01:00:37 The Power of Mission-Driven Leadership in Business 01:03:03 Key Combat Principles That Apply to Business & Life 01:07:52 Adam’s Top Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners 01:10:00 Where to Connect with Adam Haidary 01:12:20 Key Takeaways 01:14:44 Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   WEEKLY NEWSLETTER     CONNECT WITH ADAM HAIDARY Websites: efcombatives.com & policeposts.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adam.haidary YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EFCombatives Adam’s Creds… Founder, Police Posts Co-founder, Effective Fitness 7 years of Law Enforcement Experience (2013-2020) Former Training Supervisor- Rank: Sgt. South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy: BID Certified Instructor Purple Belt K9 Training Tac Med Program

What if the real health hacks aren’t from the latest influencer or supplement, but from our ancestors? Could the answers lie in the simple habits we’ve forgotten? In this replay of Ep.131, Hilda Labrada Gore, host of The Wise Traditions Podcast, shares six ancestral health practices that go beyond the noise of modern wellness trends. From sunlight to sleep to cold exposure, Hilda shares simple, effective tips that tap into ancient wisdom—no gimmicks or fads involved.   KEY TOPICS The truth about cholesterol: Are we following outdated science? Why skipping the morning sun could sabotage your hormones and vitality. Cold exposure: The ultimate shortcut to building mental and physical resilience. Why avoiding discomfort is making you weaker—and how to reverse it. Gut check: Who’s really influencing your choices—God or the loudest voice?   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business  02:32 Meet Holistic Hilda 03:36 The Truth About Ancestral Diets and Modern Trends 05:49 Why Digestion Starts with Gratitude and Prayer 10:23 Community, Celebration, and Nourishment 12:47 Sacred Connection to Our Food 17:35 A Heart Defect, Open-Heart Surgery, and a Life Mission 22:16 Health Secret #1: Sun 34:10 Health Secret #2: Sleep 36:36 Health Secret #3: Shivers 46:11 Health Secret #4: Sustenance 53:17 Health Secret #5: Strength 55:44 Health Secret #6: Spirit 56:37 Hilda Labrada Gore’s Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners  59:05 Key Takeaways  1:00:05 Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠      CONNECT WITH HILDA LABRADA GORE   Hilda’s Website: www.holistichilda.com  Wise Traditions Podcast: https://www.westonaprice.org/wise-traditions-podcast/#gsc.tab=0 Weston A. Price Foundation Website: www.westonapricefoundation.com Hilda’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/HolisticHilda Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holistichilda YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HolisticHilda     Hilda Labrada Gore (a/k/a Holistic Hilda) is a certified health coach who is known as a kind of Dora the Explorer 2.0. She has traveled extensively as an experiential anthropologist through Mongolia, Peru, Ethiopia, Ecuador, Kenya, Australia, and more — with the objective of exploring traditional practices to improve the energy and vitality of humanity. Hilda is the host and producer of the Wise Traditions podcast on behalf of the Weston A. Price Foundation.     She shares the best of experts, experiences, and epic adventures on her podcast, her Holistic Hilda YouTube channel, and in-person at conferences and retreats. Hilda has energy to spare because she keeps her feet on the ground and her face to the sun. 

Why do New Year’s resolutions fail so often? Maybe it’s because they’re designed to. In this episode, Sanger and Shawn tear into the traditional approach to resolutions and explain why they’re usually a waste of time. Instead, they break down a no-nonsense way to set goals that actually reflect what matters most. If you’re tired of empty promises and quick fixes, this conversation is a fresh take on starting the year with real purpose.   KEY TOPICS Why traditional New Year’s resolutions are a setup for failure. The surprising dopamine trap of sharing your goals prematurely. The danger of chasing goals based on someone else’s values. How to fight off discouragement and stay on track with your goals.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business  00:49 Why Resolutions Fail 03:10 The Dopamine Trap of Sharing Goals 07:57 Misaligned Goals and Hidden Risks 12:42 From Dreams to Action 17:12 The Four-Blocker Strategy 22:00 Fixing the SMART Goal Misstep 29:11 Staying Disciplined Amid Setbacks 35:58 Testing Goals Against Your Values 40:41 Avoiding Opportunity Overload 47:37 Closing: Setting Goals That Matter 50:04 Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER:⁠ https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠

What happens when family dynamics intersect with business strategy?   David Kolbe, CEO of Kolbe Corp, shares the highs and hurdles of taking the reins in a family business. With roots in his grandfather’s Wonderlic Test and his mother’s Kolbe Index, David explains how understanding instincts and strengths has shaped his leadership, his family relationships, and the way he keeps fresh ideas flowing.   KEY TOPICS What happens when your boss is also your parent (or you’re the parent). The real impact of job titles and why your team might care more than you think. Knowing when to pass the torch as a business founder. How to balance creative freedom with practical strategy in a family business.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business  05:29 David Kolbe on Growing Up in a Family Business  07:51 Wonderlic Test: Its NFL Legacy and Origins  10:16 From Law to Leadership: Why David Joined Kolbe Corp  12:30 Working with Family: Lessons from the Trenches  14:54 Navigating Family Dynamics in Business Decisions  17:16 When Family Disagreements Rattle the Workplace  19:40 How Kolbe Corp Helps Leaders Leverage Strengths  22:04 When Quick Start Leaders Meet High Follow-Through Teams  24:26 Strategic Vision vs. Tactical Execution in Leadership  26:50 Why Most Businesses Aren’t Built for Innovation  29:08 The Key to Selling a Business Worth Buying  31:32 Structuring Teams for Growth Without Chaos  33:52 Letting Go: How Founders Transition Leadership  36:17 When the Visionary Isn’t the Business Owner  38:38 Avoiding Cultural Stagnation in Family Businesses  40:53 Building Innovation Departments That Last  43:16 When Tradition Holds a Business Back  45:37 Empowering Quick Start Talent Without Losing Control  47:59 Why Accurate Job Titles Matter for Teams  50:14 The Risk of Over-Titling Employees  52:39 Creating a Fun and Caring Workplace Culture  55:00 What “Mandatory Fun” Teaches About Leadership  57:17 David Kolbe’s Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners  59:10 Key Takeaways  1:01:00 Message from the Producer   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER   CONNECT WITH DAVID KOLBE Website: https://www.kolbe.com/  Book “Do More More Naturally: Empowering Effortless Success and the Freedom to Be Yourself”: https://a.co/d/h8he2iG  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kolbecorp  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@poweredbyinstinct  Kolbe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kolbe-corp/  David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kolbe-b352a99/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KolbeCorp  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KolbeCorp  X: https://x.com/Kolbe_Corp    As CEO of Kolbe Corp, David Kolbe is committed to helping people use their natural instincts to thrive. The Kolbe A™ Index helps people understand their instinctive strengths and how to use them to tackle challenges. David’s all about making our instincts work for us, not against us—turning what comes naturally into real-world results that drive success at home and in business. 

With every election cycle, the noise grows louder—polls, predictions, and endless opinions from every direction. But how much of it is real, and how much is just noise? How can we think clearly and make decisions that serve us, our families, and our businesses? In this episode, Sanger Smith sits down with Ken Coleman to break down the true impact of elections beyond the headlines. They discuss why polling can be misleading, how the media shapes our perception of political events, and the importance of focusing on what we can control rather than getting swept up in the chaos. Ken offers insight into what strong leadership looks like in a time of deep division.   KEY TOPICS How debates have turned into battlegrounds for insults instead of vision. Why identity politics is creating division—and how a lack of true identity is driving it. What it takes to bring integrity back to leadership when chaos becomes the norm. What companies can learn from political missteps when mission and culture stray too far apart.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business  00:44 Election Impact on Markets 02:54 Ken Coleman 05:32 The Truth on “Internal Polls” 07:53 Election Impact on the Markets 10:19 Mudslinging by the Candidates 12:46 Trump’s Influence on Political Culture 15:14 Civil Discourse: Is It a Lost Cause? 17:30 How Political Figures Shape the Nation 19:49 Real Leadership Integrity 22:14 Vision Casting in Political Leadership 24:34 When Businesses and Politics Lose Integrity 26:59 Self-Preservation in Second-Gen Businesses 31:48 Integrity vs. Chaos: Why Stability Matters 34:13 Why Chaos Thrives in Politics (and How Businesses Can Avoid It) 36:38 What Businesses Can Learn from Blockbuster 38:53 How Reagan and Trump Shaped American Leadership 41:17 Rejecting Identity Politics 43:44 The Media is Dividing Americans 46:08 Free Speech vs. Temper Tantrums 48:25 How Americans Can Take a Stand 50:49 Returning to Our Values 53:17 The Key to Avoiding Civil Unrest 55:20 Identity Politics and Business 57:26 Ken Coleman’s Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners 57:48 Key Takeaways 59:47 Message from the Producer   OUR FIRST EPISODE WITH KEN Ep.141 I Deciding to Find Fulfillment: Purpose Isn’t Found in a Paycheck w/ Ken Coleman   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER:⁠ https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠      CONNECT WITH KEN COLEMAN Website: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ken-coleman  The Ken Coleman Show: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKenColemanShowFullEpisodes/videos  Instagram: @kencoleman Ken Coleman is a nationally syndicated radio host, best-selling author, and host of The Ken Coleman Show on the Ramsey Network, where he helps listeners find professional passion and purpose. Known for his expertise in leadership and personal development, Ken has authored books like From Paycheck to Purpose and The Proximity Principle.

Selling the business and retiring isn’t an on/off switch. When you approach it like a dimmer, you gain the confidence to transition with peace of mind. Roger Whitney, the Retirement Answer Man, points out that decisions like taking a pension or lump sum are just the basics. The real focus should be on the visionary choices that truly shape your retirement.   KEY TOPICS How to stop losing sleep over retirement planning. Recognizing and honoring phases of life as they evolve. Why the primary crisis of retirement is sheer lack of confidence. How to map out “what’s next” following your retirement.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Mission of Decidedly 04:02 Roger Whitney, the Retirement Answer Man 06:35 The Crisis of Your Confidence 09:00 When You’re Nervous to Retire 13:39 The First Steps to Retirement Planning 16:26 Stop Chasing the New Strategy 20:00 Make Yourself Uncomfortable 26:16 Embracing New Seasons 30:05 Retiring to Something Refreshing 35:08 Post-Retirement Goal Setting 37:40 Rich People Don’t Think They’re Rich 41:36 Gratitude Practice to Combat Fears 43:30 Repairing a Bad Money Decision 48:52 Decision Tip for Business Owners 50:44 Key Takeaways 51:36 Producer Closing   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch the full episode on YouTube Subscribe to watch weekly episodes on YouTube⁠ Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith     Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER:⁠ https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠       CONNECT WITH ROGER WHITNEY Website: www.rogerwhitney.com Retirement Answer Man Podcast: www.rogerwhitney.com/blog Rock Retirement Book: www.rogerwhitney.com/the-book   Roger has been walking life with clients as a financial advisor for more than 25 years and is the host of the award-winning Retirement Answer Man® podcast. He is on a mission to change the way the world thinks about retirement, one little conversation at a time. Roger established the RRC in 2018 to help foster a safe online space for soon-to-be retirees to learn, plan, and interact with other like-minded folks on the path to retirement. As if that’s not enough to keep him busy, he is the author of Rock Retirement: A Simple Guide to Help You Take Control and Be More Optimistic About the Future, a Forbes online contributor, creator of the Agile Financial Planning process, and past instructor of the Retirement Planning & Employee Benefits CFP® certificate program at the University of Texas Arlington and of Wealth Management at Texas Christian University. Investopedia has named him to the Top 100 Most Influential Advisors 2017-2019 & 2021, and he has brought home Plutus Awards for Best Financial Planner Blog (2019) and Best Retirement Blog (2015 and 2017).

Are you caught between fighting through tough times and knowing when to take a step back? Is there more to handling challenges than just pushing through? Dr. MH Pelletier, a leading expert in resilience, shares insights on when to push through and when to reassess, revealing how your toughest moments can be your most pivotal.   KEY TOPICS Burnout prevention: catching it before it takes you (or your loved ones) out. The science behind resilience and how it affects your brain. Why you should never quit on a bad day. Simple ways to build a resilient team culture.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Mission of Decidedly 02:30 Why “Smiths Don't Quit” 05:00 The Worst Day: A Career-Defining Moment 05:50 Dr. MH Pelletier 09:45 When to Push Through the Struggle 14:30 How to Build Resilience 18:15 Building a Resilient Team 22:50 Check Yourself 27:30 Resilience Isn’t Grit 32:00 Deciding to Be Resilient in Real-Time 37:15 Creating Psychological Safety 42:00 How Resilience Affects Your Brain 47:30 Recognizing Burnout: Early Signs 52:00 Supporting Your Spouse Through Burnout 55:48 Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners 57:08 Key Takeaways 58:53 Producer Closing   CONNECT WITH US ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠ Watch this episode on YouTube Subscribe on ⁠YouTube⁠ Join us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast Join us on ⁠Facebook⁠ Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith   Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.   SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠   SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠   MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.  LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠   SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER:⁠ https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠       CONNECT WITH DR. MH PELLETIER Website:  https://drmarie-helene.com/ The Resilience Plan: https://drmarie-helene.com/book/ Instagram: @drmhpelletier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmhpelletier/?originalSubdomain=ca Dr. MH Pelletier is a practicing work psychologist and trusted senior leader in clinical counseling and workplace psychology.