IDEAS+LEADERS

In the episode 264 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I sit down with Mark Young - entrepreneur, educator, author, philanthropist, and CEO of Ryze Agency, a Fort Lauderdale-based marketing firm that helps brands grow through strategic storytelling and data-driven marketing.Mark has built a career on action, adaptability, and generosity. From launching businesses and mentoring leaders to traveling the world in search of meaning, his journey proves that success comes not from waiting for the perfect plan but from taking bold steps forward. Today, he’s bringing that same philosophy to health innovation and leadership - helping people live longer, healthier, and more purposeful lives.We dive into:The power of radical generosity in leadership and business.The biggest mistakes brands make when connecting with real people.Mark’s personal philosophy on action, momentum, and leading with purpose.If you’re ready to rethink how you live, lead, and serve - this episode will inspire you to take action, embrace generosity, and create impact.👉 Listen now and discover how radical generosity and innovation can transform leadership and life.Connect with Mark here Ryze Agency - HomeThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

 In episode 263 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Ausra Bijaminiene, CEO Advisor, Self-Leadership Mentor, and founder of the Boutique Institute of Leadership.With over 25 years of international HR leadership experience at global organizations like AstraZeneca, Nordea, and Danske Bank, Ausra now helps CEOs, successors, and top executives navigate transitions, dilemmas, and midlife shifts with clarity and purpose. Recognized as a Top 100 Global Women Mentor, she blends strategic insight with a deeply human approach to guiding leaders through change.In this deep and inspiring conversation, we explore: ✅ Why self-leadership is the foundation of sustainable leadership ✅ How leaders can reconnect with themselves to avoid burnout and lead with integrity ✅ The role of vulnerability in building strong, trusted relationships ✅ What CEOs and family business leaders need most to balance growth with legacy ✅ How self-leadership can scale from guiding teams to shaping industries and movements✨ If you’re navigating leadership challenges or want to build resilience and clarity in your own journey, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and powerful stories.Connect with Ausra here https://boutiqueleadership.com/Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

🎙️ In episode 262 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Jennifer Kaplan, founder and CEO of Evolve Public Relations and Marketing, one of Arizona’s premier PR agencies.With over 15 years of experience helping businesses and leaders craft authentic stories, build trust, and navigate the fast-changing media landscape, Jennifer has become a recognized leader in PR and entrepreneurship. She has been named one of The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business and honored with multiple awards for her impact on communication and leadership.In this inspiring conversation, we explore: ✅ What leadership truly means — starting with self-leadership ✅ How to lead others by prioritizing people first ✅ The biggest lessons Jennifer has learned as a leader in the PR industry✨ If you want to strengthen your leadership and communication, while learning how to authentically connect with your audience, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Connect with Jennifer here Evolve PR: Award-Winning PR & Marketing in ArizonaThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq. 

In the episode 261 of the IDEAS+LEADERS podcast, I sit down with Matthew Stafford, Managing Partner at Build Grow Scale and a veteran entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience building businesses across industries. From brick-and-mortar stores to SaaS and DTC brands, Matthew has seen it all - and helped hundreds of eCommerce companies cross the $1M and even $10M revenue milestones.We dive deep into:The biggest leadership lessons from 3 decades of entrepreneurshipThe most common conversion killers in eCommerce todayHow to increase sales without increasing ad spendUsing buyer psychology and data-driven insights to boost performanceWhy conversion doesn’t stop at the sale - and how to turn buyers into loyal fansIf you’re leading a startup or scaling a global brand, this conversation is packed with strategies you can apply right away to grow smarter, not just bigger.🎧 Tune in now and get an insider’s perspective on the future of eCommerce optimization.Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 260 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Kelly Price, founder of ThriveHR and a powerhouse in strategic HR, leadership, and workplace culture.With a career that began at Marriott and grew into executive HR leadership and entrepreneurship, Kelly brings a rare blend of people-first wisdom and sharp business acumen. Today, she helps small businesses build solid people foundations that support long-term success.In this episode, we explore: ✅ Why HR is not just a support function - but a strategic driver of business results ✅ What confident HR leadership really looks like ✅ How leaders can build thriving workplace cultures through intentional development ✅ Why leadership development is essential, not optional, for sustainable growth✅ What small businesses can teach big companies about authentic leadership✨ If you’re building a business, leading a team, or shaping company culture - this episode will challenge and inspire you.Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: Kelly Price, SHRM-SCP | LinkedInThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq. 

In episode 259 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Ruth Milligan - executive speech coach, TEDx pioneer, and founder of Articulation Inc., a top executive communication firm.Ruth is the force behind TEDxColumbus, the longest-running TEDx event in the world, and has coached over 1,000 speakers across science, business, and the arts. Her insights have helped leaders from Fortune 10 companies and major research institutions turn complex ideas into compelling, actionable stories.In this powerful conversation, we explore:Common speaker mistakes that undermine credibilityHow to communicate complex ideas with clarity and emotionWhat shaded habits are — and how they sabotage your communicationRuth’s top tools for becoming a more confident speaker🎤 Ruth also gives us a sneak peek into her book The Motivated Speaker, where she unpacks the real behaviors that hold leaders back in high-stakes moments.If you're ready to uplevel your communication and truly lead with your voice, this episode is a must-listen.Follow Ruth on LinkedIn (1) Ruth Milligan | LinkedInThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

🎙️ In episode 258 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Lisa L. Levy, Founder and CEO of Lcubed Consulting and author of the #1 bestselling book Future Proofing Cubed.Lisa is the go-to expert for visionary founders who want to escape the chaos of daily operations without their businesses collapsing. Using her Adaptive Transformation™ Framework, she helps $1M–$15M companies build self-reliant leadership teams, increase profits, and create businesses that run (and thrive) without them.In this episode, we uncover:The steps to building a truly self-reliant teamHow to align people, processes, and technology for rapid growthWhat it takes to scale a business without losing your sanityWhy freedom should be the ultimate goal of leadership - and how to achieve it🔥 If you’re ready to stop working in your business and start leading it with clarity and calm, this conversation is for you.Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: Lisa L. LevyThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

 In episode 257 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Dave Behar, branding visionary, serial entrepreneur, and Chief Executive Athlete at ION Network and Behar Brands.Dave has shaped thousands of media, tech, sports, and lifestyle brands and is a two-time Amazon bestselling author. With a passion for legacy-building, he's also a trusted advisor at San Diego State University and a strategic voice in branding, intellectual property, and leadership.In this episode, we dive into:The power of language in building iconic brandsHow to craft a personal brand that is both authentic and strategicWhat it means to be a “Chief Executive Athlete” in business💡 If you’re a thought leader, entrepreneur, or changemaker ready to elevate your brand and impact, this episode is for you.Connect with Dave on LinkedIn Dave Behar | LinkedInThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 256 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Johaina El Boujaji,  HR and Employer Branding expert, international recruiter, and passionate advocate for DE&I.Originally from France and Morocco, Johaina built her career in the UK and now leads recruitment and inclusion initiatives across Europe at American Express Global Business Travel. She’s also a university lecturer and a voice for young professionals navigating international careers.Tune in as we explore:The journey of building a career as an expat woman leaderHow to thrive authentically in multicultural, high-performance environmentsKeys to inclusive leadership and building diverse teamsAdvice for young professionals starting international careersWhat leaders should focus on today to create meaningful impactFollow Johaina on LinkedIn Johaïna Elb (Assoc CIPD) | LinkedInThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 255 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast I am speaking with Martine Cohen, transformative coach, speaker, and author of No More Layers: Discover Your Inner Power and Reclaim True Freedom from the Inside Out.After a life-changing car accident, Martine found a new path blending intellect and intuition to help high achievers overcome fear, limiting beliefs, and old patterns, and live with authenticity and joy.Tune in as we explore:What it means to peel back our “layers” and why it’s key to personal freedomHow to recognize and shift mindset patterns shaped by fearThe difference between decision and choice  and why it mattersTools to break the “Fear Loop” and redefine success on your termsLearn more at martinecohen.com Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 254 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Whitney Elkins-Hutten, personal finance expert, wealth strategist, and author helping people build and protect their wealth with confidence.Whitney shares practical advice drawn from years of experience in real estate, syndications, and financial education, guiding listeners at every stage of their wealth journey.Tune in as we explore:Why “budgeting is dead” and what to do insteadThe main pillars of wealth creationSimple steps to move from saving to smart investingHow the wealthiest structure their financesActionable tips to overcome overwhelm and start investing todayLearn more at passiveinvesting.comThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 253 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast I am speaking with Gaëlle Deschamps, leadership expert, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and founder of G Force. Gaëlle brings over 20 years of corporate leadership at L’Oréal, SABMiller, and Coca-Cola, where she trained thousands of leaders globally. Now, she’s on a mission to empower the next generation of female leaders through her signature programs and youth initiatives.Tune in as we explore:The essential skills young leaders need for the futureThe difference between coaching executives and Gen Z leadersHow to engage young minds who learn faster and think differentlyWhat parents and educators should stop and start doing to raise confident leadersGaëlle’s work is reshaping leadership at every level - from boardrooms to classrooms. You can connect with her here: gforceco.co.ukThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 252 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Piers Fallowfield-Cooper - executive coach, former CEO and Chairman, and author of Are You Still The Future?Piers has led businesses across continents and industries, mentoring over 130 senior leaders, and challenging the conventional wisdom of what it means to lead in today’s world.Tune in as we explore:How to turn challenges like dyslexia into leadership strengthsWhat the future of leadership looks like in an AI-driven worldHow to build authentic executive presenceWhy success doesn’t always bring fulfillment and how to find meaningWhether you’re a rising leader or an experienced exec, this episode is full of powerful insights on staying relevant and leading with impact.Learn more at Piers Fallowfield-Cooper | CEO Mentor - WelcomeThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

What does it take to lead, scale, and sustain a thriving business - and grow as a person while doing it? In the episode 251 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we’re joined by Mark Musselman, a seasoned CEO turned executive coach who now guides top leaders through transformative breakthroughs at MX5 Consulting.With over 30 years of leadership experience and a proven assess-align-accelerate methodology, Mark shares:His biggest leadership lessons from the CEO seatHow self-awareness fuels real transformationStrategies for overcoming blind spots and getting unstuckWhat it takes to align people, systems, and purpose—especially during uncertaintyWhether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or aspiring leader, this episode offers actionable insights for leading with clarity, resilience, and impact.🔗 Connect with Mark at mx5consulting.comThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq. 

In episode 250 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Kevin Surace - a Silicon Valley trailblazer, AI visionary, and dynamic speaker who holds 93 patents and has reshaped industries from construction to tech. From pioneering the first AI virtual assistant to leading energy retrofits on the Empire State Building, Kevin brings a rare blend of technical genius and creative flair.Tune in as we explore:Where AI is already transforming our lives and workWhat industries are ripe for disruptionHow leaders can build an “innovation DNA” in any companyWhether you're a founder, leader, or curious mind, this episode is packed with insights on embracing change and leading into the future with vision and creativity.Learn more at kevinsurace.comThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 249 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Everett O’Keefe, a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and international #1 bestselling author and the founder of Ignite Press. With more than 200 bestselling book launches behind him, Everett is a leading voice in hybrid publishing - helping entrepreneurs and professionals turn their ideas into influence through authorship.We dive into why publishing a book is still one of the most powerful tools for business growth and thought leadership. Everett shares how the right book can enhance your credibility, open doors to speaking engagements, attract ideal clients, and become a long-term business asset. We also go behind the scenes of what it really takes to launch a successful book - and how hybrid publishing offers an author-friendly alternative to traditional routes.From choosing a strategic topic to building community and visibility around your book, this conversation is packed with practical insights for any leader ready to write their next chapter - literally.Highlights include:Why books still matter in the digital ageHow to pick a topic aligned with your brandThe truth about hybrid publishing vs. self-publishingHow authorship builds community and influenceFirst steps for business leaders ready to become published authorsLearn more about Everett’s work at ignitepress.us and connect with him through The AuthorMind and Book Publishers Network.Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 248 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I sit down with Chuck Wisner, renowned leadership advisor, communication expert, and author of The Art of Conscious Conversations. With decades of experience coaching Fortune 200 leaders, teaching mediation at Harvard Law School, and studying organizational learning at MIT, Chuck brings a rare depth of insight into how we talk, listen, and lead.We dive into his transformative framework for conscious communication - starting with awareness, ego, and the silent “private conversations” we all have that shape our relationships and decisions. Chuck shares the four essential questions that can shift even the most difficult conversations toward clarity and connection, whether in the boardroom or around the dinner table.You’ll walk away with powerful tools to break free from autopilot thinking, handle disagreement with curiosity instead of defensiveness, and repair communication breakdowns with grace and purpose. This is a must-listen for leaders who want to lead with greater empathy, intention, and influence - in every interaction.Topics Include:What drives unconscious communication - and how to shift itThe surprising power of saying “no”How to reduce misunderstandings in high-stakes conversationsBuilding habits that support emotional intelligence at work and homeLearn more at chuckwisner.comThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this thought-provoking episode of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Kelly Winegarden Hall, a powerhouse leadership consultant with over 30 years of experience leading global teams and transforming organizational cultures. As the founder of Live L.A.R.G.E. LLC, Kelly is on a mission to help leaders shift their companies from survival mode to true human thriving.Kelly’s new book, Love Works, makes a radical and timely argument: love - not control, fear, or pressure - is the new competitive advantage. Together, we explore what “love” really means in the workplace, how it drives performance and profit, and how leaders can start showing up with courage, care, and authenticity - starting today.From leading through chaos to building deeply loyal teams, Kelly shares actionable insights on navigating uncertainty, cultivating resilient cultures, and creating organizations rooted in trust, purpose, and inclusion. If you’ve ever wondered whether empathy and performance can truly go hand in hand - this episode will expand your mindset.💡 Key Themes:What love-driven leadership looks like in real business settingsHow to lead through crisis with authenticity and clarityThe link between connection, culture, and long-term successInclusion, self-management, and the future of DEI in organizationsLearn more about Kelly’s work at Home - Kelly Winegarden HallThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 246 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Cary Sparrow, a former U.S. Navy submarine officer turned tech entrepreneur, and the CEO of WageScape - a company that’s revolutionizing how businesses understand the labor market and compete for top talent.We explore Cary’s unique journey from commanding nuclear submarines to building one of the most advanced labor market intelligence platforms in the world. He shares how his military background shaped his leadership style, why traditional compensation data is failing companies, and how real-time pay insights are changing the game for HR leaders and executives.You’ll learn how next-gen labor market intelligence empowers companies to make smarter, faster, and fairer hiring decisions - and why wage transparency is both a challenge and an opportunity for modern organizations. Cary also reveals what today’s most innovative companies are doing differently to win the talent war, and what every business leader should know to stay ahead.🚀 Whether you're in HR, leading a team, or shaping strategy at the executive level - this episode will give you a fresh, data-powered perspective on the future of work.You can contact Cary here Cary Sparrow | LinkedInThank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Evan Mawarire, Zimbabwean pastor, global human rights advocate, and fearless founder of the #ThisFlag movement. Evan became a global symbol of nonviolent resistance when his heartfelt video recorded in frustration and hope ignited a nationwide call for justice in Zimbabwe.We dive deep into the origin of #ThisFlag, the unimaginable risks he took to speak truth to power, and how he found strength through faith, values, and storytelling. Evan opens up about writing his book Crazy Epic Courage and the most difficult moments of his journey - from imprisonment to exile, and what true courage really feels like in the face of fear.You’ll learn what it takes to build a movement grounded in purpose, how to lead with integrity under pressure, and why resilience is born in the darkest valleys. Whether you're a business leader, activist, or changemaker, Evan’s story will move and empower you to lead with conviction, even when the stakes are high.🕊️ Don't miss this raw and inspiring conversation about courage, conviction, and leading change bigger than yourself.👉 Learn more about Evan at evanmawarire.com and follow him on LinkedIn. 📘 Grab your copy of Crazy Epic Courage and take your own bold step forward.Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.