It Matters Podcast

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores the vital role of communication in effective leadership. Emphasizing the practice of “watching game film,” he encourages leaders to review and analyze their own speaking performances to identify strengths and areas for growth. Listeners are urged to approach self-assessment with humility, celebrate progress, and make intentional improvements. The episode highlights the importance of preparation, honest self-reflection, and continuous learning as essential habits for leaders seeking to enhance their communication skills and overall leadership impact.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez interviews Sarah Van Dusen of High Level Marketing. Sarah shares her journey from graffiti art to marketing expertise, offering practical advice for business leaders on building authentic brands, leveraging Google Business Profile, and overcoming self-doubt. She emphasizes consistency, clear calls to action, and the power of storytelling. The discussion covers current marketing trends, the importance of community engagement, and leading with kindness. Sarah’s insights empower entrepreneurs to embrace authenticity, stay adaptable, and seek support, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to grow their business. Sarah Van Dusen, a Google-certified SEO expert, social media strategist, and marketing mentor with over 20 years of experience helping businesses across Western Canada cut through the noise and get noticed. She's been consulted by the Canadian Senate on digital policy, and has taught at NAIT, Grant MacEwan, and the U of A—empowering business owners with the secrets to SEO, website optimization, and social media success. Trusted by Edmonton's top entrepreneurs, Sarah understands the hustle, the challenges, and the importance of making every marketing dollar count. Connect with Sarah sarah@highlevelyeg.ca IG: @highlevelyeg Facebook: High Level Marketing Inc. Connect with Walter www.theleaderco.ca IG: @theleaderco.inc Facebook: The Leader Co.

In this episode of the It Matters podcast, Walter Perez welcomes a special guest, his son Armando Perez. They discuss the importance of leadership, how to become a leader, and what leadership means. Armando shares his aspirations for the future and discusses his experience playing sports and managing a rare liver disease. Walter provides valuable insights on leadership, including the importance of practicing, supporting teammates, and being honest about one's challenges. This conversation offers a heartfelt and educational look at developing leadership skills from a young age.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez welcomes Tara Kerns. Tara shares her journey from aspiring engineer to rare disease advocate after her sons were diagnosed with Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC). She discusses the challenges of navigating a rare diagnosis, building a supportive community, and balancing leadership with self-care. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, vulnerability, and connection in advocacy, offering inspiration and practical advice for families facing rare diseases and personal hardships. Tara Kearns is a licensed social worker, educator, advocate, and most importantly, a mother. Working with children and families in the mental health field for most of her professional career, she entered the world of medical advocacy after her oldest son received a diagnosis of MRD3 deficiency, also known as PFIC 3. In 2016, she began working with two other mothers of children with multiple variations of PFIC to maintain the original website pfic.org, a grassroots online webpage created to share (very little at the time) information online. By 2018, The PFIC Advocacy and Resource Network, Inc. (The PFIC Network), a 501(c)3 non-for-profit organization was born. Since then, Tara has remained connected with the organization, not only as a Co-Founder, but has also served terms as Board Secretary, and as Vice-President of the Board of Directors. Currently, Tara serves as a Program Consultant with the PFIC Network, working to further organizational priorities and support its mission.   Connect with Tara tara@pfic.org IG: @mommyofthreetots Connect with Walter www.theleaderco.ca IG: @theleaderco.inc Facebook: The Leader Co.

In this solo episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores leadership, mindset, and personal growth as the year nears its end. He encourages listeners to reflect on their progress, let go of what doesn’t truly matter, and focus on positive habits and purposeful action. Walter stresses the importance of proactive reflection and making intentional choices to finish the year strong and start the next one with momentum. He motivates listeners to lead with clarity and resilience, and hints at a special guest joining the next episode.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the importance of embracing change for personal growth and effective leadership. He introduces the acronym "CHANGE"—Choose it, Have a vision, Ask for help, Need to do the work, Grow as you go, and Evaluate along the way—to guide listeners through the process. Walter emphasizes that while change can be uncomfortable, it is essential for progress. He encourages leaders to be intentional, adaptable, and reflective, offering practical steps and motivation for anyone facing change in their life or leadership journey.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores how a constant sense of urgency can undermine effective leadership. Speaking directly to leaders, the episode highlights the negative impacts of urgency—such as poor decision-making, burnout, and reduced team morale—and encourages a shift toward proactive, well-prepared leadership. By prioritizing clear communication, thoughtful planning, and team collaboration, leaders can create a healthier work environment, foster sustainable progress, and achieve better outcomes for their organizations. The episode offers practical advice for breaking the cycle of urgency and building lasting success.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter explores the concept of "Counterfeit Leadership," highlighting six common misconceptions people often mistake for true leadership. He explains that being first, holding a title, managing systems, owning a business, being entrepreneurial, or simply possessing knowledge do not automatically make someone a leader. True leadership, Walter emphasizes, is about influence, growth, and positively impacting others. He encourages listeners to reflect on their own leadership practices, avoid these counterfeits, and commit to developing genuine leadership skills that make a real difference.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores leadership effectiveness during seasonal transitions. Emphasizing self-reflection, the host shares five key questions for leaders: clarifying vision, assessing current reality, acknowledging weaknesses, recognizing strengths, and leveraging team dynamics. Listeners are encouraged to seek honest feedback, write down their vision, and use tools like StrengthsFinder to enhance their leadership. The episode offers practical steps for growth, urging leaders to continuously develop and positively impact their teams and missions, especially during times of change.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez reflects on the theme of pressure, sharing a personal story about navigating the stress of having a sick child with a rare disease. The episode explores how pressure reveals—rather than creates—character, mindset, values, and habits. Listeners are encouraged to proactively build strong foundations so they can respond positively when challenges arise. Walter emphasizes self-reflection, personal growth, and the importance of consistent habits, urging listeners to become the kind of person they’re proud of under pressure.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez reflects on the importance of going above and beyond at work. The episode explores how a “not my job” mentality harms workplace culture, encourages listeners to pursue excellence, help others, and align personal values with their workplace. Walter also discusses the leader’s role in fostering supportive environments and emphasizes that every role and contribution matters in creating a positive, impactful workplace.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores effective team leadership, drawing from his own experiences. He emphasizes that true leadership is about empowering the entire team, not just the person in charge. Walter discusses the importance of co-creating vision and processes, fostering ownership, open communication, and trust. He encourages leaders to be selfless, value team input, and celebrate collective achievements. Listeners are challenged to reflect on their leadership style and embrace inclusive, sustainable practices that drive lasting impact and stronger teamwork.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the transformative power of daily habits, emphasizing how small, consistent actions shape our lives over time. Drawing from personal experiences in health and fitness, Walter highlights the importance of self-awareness, patience, and aligning habits with core values. Listeners are encouraged to evaluate their routines, embrace discomfort for growth, and recognize that true leadership begins with self-discipline. The episode inspires intentional change, reminding us that meaningful transformation comes from the compounding effect of positive, everyday choices.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores the powerful difference between viewing difficulties as "problems" versus "challenges." He explains how reframing problems as challenges fosters a more positive, growth-oriented mindset, empowering listeners to overcome obstacles and lead more effectively. Walter encourages adopting this mindset shift to unlock personal and leadership growth, emphasizing that challenges inspire action and resilience, while problems can lead to negativity and defeat. The episode provides practical advice for developing a growth mindset and invites listeners to share their own experiences with overcoming challenges.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the concept of "leading from the middle." He shares personal stories and insights on how effective leadership is rooted in service, humility, and accountability—not just authority. Walter emphasizes the importance of balancing the needs of teams, organizations, and stakeholders, and highlights the value of people skills and relationship-building. He encourages leaders to embrace their role in the middle, lead in all directions, and focus on making a lasting, positive impact through serving and valuing others.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez delivers an inspiring message on resilience and the power of rebounding after setbacks. Drawing from personal experiences in parenting and sports, Walter emphasizes the importance of encouragement, self-forgiveness, and learning from failure. He urges listeners to adopt a positive mindset, extend grace to themselves and others, and celebrate progress rather than perfection. Walter also shares how his faith fuels his commitment to growth, encouraging reflection and the sharing of this message to foster a culture of resilience and strong, compassionate leadership.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the true essence of leadership, emphasizing service, sacrifice, and integrity. He discusses the challenges leaders face in balancing commitments and highlights the importance of serving others over personal gain. Walter shares personal insights, encourages self-reflection, and invites listeners to embrace the unique journey of leadership. He stresses that authentic leadership is about uplifting others, making tough choices, and leading with character. The episode aims to inspire a supportive community of leaders dedicated to growth and positive impact.

In this episode of the It Matters podcast Walter Perez explores a very important question that all leaders should consider. Are you running on fumes or on fuel? Walter proposes that having the answer and self awareness to this question can determine your longevity in the leadership journey. This timely episode for a half year reflection will equip you and give you hope to adjust if need be. Leaders that run on fumes or fuel have at least one common denominator that they need to activate, and that is rest. Walter explores why having a time out integrated into your life will be important moving forward to leading well. 

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez wants you to explore the possible impact that comes from tapping into your potential and pursuing your dreams. He presents us with the "what if" question to help us expand our mindset. Followed up by an important question of what is holding you back. Walter gives us practical thoughts about living outside our comfort zone and being others focused. Every leader shouldn't underestimate their impact and what they can do today because tomorrow may never come.

In this episode of the It Matters podcast, Walter Perez interviews Registered Psychologist Kim Sesink. She delves into a variety of therapeutic approaches and their significance in personal and leadership development. Kim discusses the nuances of play therapy for children, the dynamics of family and couples therapy, and the role of faith in healing. The conversation also explores the impact of childhood experiences on adult life, the importance of processing trauma, and practical advice for improving emotional well-being.  Kim Sesink is a Registered Psychologist and Certified Play Therapist   Connect with Kim www.kimberleysesinkpsychology.ca Facebook: Kimberley Sesink Psychology   Connect with Walter www.theleaderco.ca IG: @theleaderco.inc Facebook: The Leader Co.