Speak In Flow

Change initiatives are one of the most difficult projects to execute, often faced with resistance from every corner. Why do so many well-intentioned transformations fail? Executive coach Julia Wojnar reveals that the missing piece is rarely the strategy itself. In this insightful episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Julia provides a practical framework for moving from resistance to resilience, sharing how to identify hidden barriers and employ a powerful "future-focused" mindset to break negative cycles.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why Change Initiatives Fail“The top leaders… are often so focused on the finances, or the numbers, or the logistics… that they can sometimes ignore the people side of it.”How to move beyond spreadsheets and strategy to address the core emotions, fear, anxiety, and the desire for the status quo, that determine whether your team will embrace change or resist it.The "Future-Focus" Method to Overcome Resistance“If we were 6 months ahead… and that was solved, what would be different?”A simple yet powerful coaching question that instantly shifts your perspective from being stuck in a problem to envisioning a solution, helping you backtrack a clear path forward and dismantle negative self-talk.Leading Through TriggersJulia’s firsthand account of a client who was “visibly angry” in their first meeting reveals a masterclass in leadership composure. Discover how to maintain your center when faced with misplaced frustration, and why asking “How do I want this to end up?” is the key to de-escalating conflict and building psychological safety.The Leader's P.A.U.S.E“Sometimes if we just take a moment to… breathe, and to gather our thoughts… that truly helps just change our whole physiology to get us back connected with ourselves.” Why the deliberate pause is not a delay but an accelerator for smarter, faster, and more sustainable change, helping to prevent burnout and ensure you are leading from a place of clarity.About the Guest: Julia Wojnar is the CEO of CorpLeadership, an executive coaching firm that specializes in guiding top-performing leaders through pivotal organizational change. With a decade of experience as a certified Leadership Coach for Top Performance, she equips leaders to navigate intense transitions by reconnecting them with their core values and vision. Her intuitive, multidisciplinary approach, honed by working with clients across the globe, has established her as a trusted "people whisperer" for navigating the complex demands of today's business environment.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliawojnar/ Leadership Styles Quiz (Free Gift for all Listeners): www.corpleadership.com/style-quiz Fun Facts:🌍 Globetrotting Connoisseur: An avid traveler who has filled a passport with stamps from over 20 countries, Julia loves to explore new cultures.🍫 Dedicated Sweet Tooth: Her travels are often fueled by a love for desserts, with chocolate and ice cream ranking as her all-time favorite foods.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict...

Have you ever wondered how the next generation will be impacted by AI? Michael Ostapenko, founder of Satryx, is building that future, and his vision goes beyond the hype. In this thought-provoking conversation with Melinda Lee, Michael dissects the current limits of AI and makes a compelling case for why our children won't be raised by rogue superintelligences, but instead, by powerful tools that lack human-like motivation.This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the world we are building for the next generation and how to prepare them for a partnership with intelligent technology.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The AI Tutor of TomorrowWhy the next generation will learn from AIs that are powerful logical reasoners, not just conversational chatbots, transforming education from memorization to master-level critical thinking.Preparing for a Partnership, Not a Takeover“Agency is a property of life, not intelligence.”How to alleviate anxiety for ourselves and our children by understanding the fundamental difference between a tool and a living entity.The New Digital Divide“Quantum computers can solve powerful classes of problems, but you have to ask the right questions.”As quantum computing and advanced AI unlock solutions to global problems, the next generation's challenge won't be access to information, but the ability to ask the right questions and wield these powerful tools ethically.Instilling "Creator Responsibility" in the Next Generation“At the end of the day, the responsibility is still on you.” Why teaching kids to code is no longer enough; we must teach them the ethics of the goals and constraints they program into intelligent systems.About the Guest: Michael Ostapenko is the founder and CEO of Satryx, a company on the cutting edge of artificial intelligence. With more than two decades of deep experience in science, engineering, and leadership, he is advancing automated reasoning on conventional hardware toward practically quantum-enabled performance. At Satryx, he is building a foundational platform that fuses these logical breakthroughs with modern machine learning. His long-term vision is to enable the next generation of AI systems that approach true human-level intelligence, capable of both semantic understanding and rigorous logical reasoning.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelostapenko Fun Fact:🚲 Gravity-Defying Survivor: Beyond the lab, Michael has tested his own limits, surviving a dramatic bike crash that involved executing a near-full flip in midair.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website:...

The shocking murder of Charlie Kirk, a young, passionate voice with a massive platform, leaves us with difficult questions. Was his "Prove Me Wrong" approach a catalyst for dialogue or division? In this poignant episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee and leadership expert Dr. Joy Karavedas dissect the power and peril of an influential voice. They explore the legacy of a man killed for his beliefs and what his story teaches us about the responsibility we all carry to use our own voices for connection, and not just conviction.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Double-Edged Sword of a PlatformHow the "Prove Me Wrong" format, while confident and compelling, may have fueled division by putting people on the defensive under a public spotlight, and why a message can get lost or muddied when delivered on a large stage.When Dialogue Stops, Violence Begins“When they feel they have no more words to be able to defend themselves, they react differently.”A deep dive into Charlie Kirk's own quote and the tragic irony of his death. Explore the idea that when people feel they have no more words to defend their deeply held beliefs, they may resort to violence, highlighting the critical need for true dialogue.The Deeper Legacy Beyond Being "Right" or "Wrong"“When the whole goal is to prove me wrong... you're not trying to find common ground.”Why Charlie Kirk's legacy is more than his political stance. It's a stark reminder of the passion, conviction, and responsibility that comes with a powerful voice, and the heavy question: What do you believe in so strongly that you would be willing to die for it?How to Wield Your Voice for Connection“When we're using our voice, we're actually not just using our words, we're connecting.” Moving beyond debate to true dialogue. Learn why we must "listen to understand," not just to reply, and how to use our voices as a source of connection and positive influence in a divided world, regardless of our platform size.About the Guest: Dr. Joy Karavedas is an accomplished educator, conference speaker, and leadership expert with over 20 years of executive-level experience. As the Dean of Online Learning at Orange Lutheran High School, she leads innovative educational initiatives and designs flexible learning pathways for the next generation. She also serves as a Professor of Organizational Leadership and Behavior, equipping emerging leaders with the strategies they need to succeed. A published author of From Striving to Thriving, Dr. Karavedas is the founder of Karavedas Coaching and Consulting, where she provides customized services to help individuals and organizations strengthen their leadership, communication, and culture.Social Handles:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/drkaravedas Instagram - instagram.com/drkaravedas Facebook - facebook.com/drkaravedas Fun Facts:✍️ Prolific Author: Currently working on her second book, with a publication date set before the end of the year.🌎 World Explorer: An avid traveler who has visited 24 countries (with two more to be crossed off in December) and 30 U.S. states.👅 Super Taster: Possesses the unique genetic trait of being a "super taster," experiencing flavors more intensely than the average person.About...

Massimo Backus, founder of Massimo Backus Leadership and author of "Human First, Leader Second," is on a mission to dismantle the myth that self-criticism drives success. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Massimo reveals how the relentless pursuit of perfection fuels a "piggy bank of shame" for leaders and shares the transformative practice that builds true resilience.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Typo That Transformed a KeynoteHow a glaring mistake on a slide became a live masterclass in self-compassion, uniting a room of executives and proving that our shared humanity is more powerful than perfection.The Three Parts of Self-Compassion“The measure of a person is… Can you get back up?... and learn from those things.”A practical framework for navigating moments of doubt: 1) Acknowledge your inner critic, 2) Connect to common humanity ("You are not alone"), and 3) Choose a kind response that allows you to move forward effectivelyFrom Shame to Shared Freedom“If you spoke to other people the way that you speak to yourself, would you have friends?”Massimo challenges the core belief that self-criticism is effective, sharing how forgiving himself for a past firing was the key to unlocking his authentic leadership.The Self-Trust Anchor“When do I trust myself most?” Massimo’s golden question for leaders to journal on. Discover how anchoring into moments of self-trust, rather than social comparison, transforms your decision-making, communication, and presence.About the Guest: Massimo Backus is on a mission to help one million people believe they are worthy and enough. A facilitator, speaker, and executive leadership coach, he provides no-BS coaching for committed senior leaders and runs transformative programs for organizations serious about change. His fifteen-plus years in talent development have given him a front-row seat to the cultures of Fortune 500 companies like Cisco, Accenture, and Amazon, working with over 3,000 leaders. Massimo holds a master's in Organizational Psychology and is the author of Human First, Leader Second.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/ Fun Facts:🎬 Award-Winning Storyteller: Beyond the boardroom, Massimo is an award-winning documentary filmmaker who loves to tell life’s great stories.📚 Academic Pedigree: He holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's in Organizational Psychology from Claremont Graduate University, with professional coaching education from The Co-Active Training Institute, grounding his transformative work in proven research.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of

For a world full of different people, not everyone knows how to work with differences, resulting in more loss than you think. Just ask Nick Bourland. After being told his neurodivergent mind was a liability, Nick discovered how to turn his unique way of thinking into his ultimate advantage. In this Episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, the senior product manager shares how a late-in-life autism diagnosis became the key to unlocking a profound leadership style.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Mental Translation Engine" for Better Connection“I've learned to look at it as a strength, like you said, strength, not a weakness, because our brains think just differently. It doesn't mean that it's wrong.”A practical approach to building rapport by consciously cataloging what resonates with others, turning social nuance into a learnable skill that builds genuine trust.The Strategic Pause: Your Secret Weapon Against Overwhelm“It's okay to take a moment... that allows me the time that I need.”Why giving yourself permission not to respond immediately is a sign of strength, not hesitation, and how it leads to clearer thinking and more confident decisions.Build a Team Where People Can "Fail Upward"“They can experiment, they can try something new, and if it doesn't work out, that's okay.”How leading with intentional empathy and focusing on individual strengths creates psychological safety, unlocking your team's highest creativity and loyalty.The Mindset to Never Let Others Define Your Potential“Never let anybody else define your future.”The core belief that allowed Nick to defy dire predictions and achieve his goals, and how you can apply it to silence the critics, including the one in your own head.About the Guest: Nick Bourland is a Senior Product Manager at Balsam Brands, a leading e-commerce company known for its high-quality artificial Christmas trees and its unique, investor-free "evergreen" model. With a nearly 30-year career spanning retail, real estate, healthcare, and technology, Nick now oversees four teams driving data and AI transformation for the global business. He is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace, transforming his own late-in-life autism diagnosis from a source of struggle into a leadership superpower.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bourland-1aa7a548 Fun Facts:🧠 Neurospicy Superpower: Officially diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2023, Nick has reframed his neurodivergence as a strategic advantage, using his ultra-detailed and differently-wired brain to manage complex work streams and build incredibly loyal teams.🎭 Creative at Heart: Beyond the corporate world, Nick is a musician, songwriter, and composer currently creating a musical theater show based on the life of Peter the Apostle.✍️ Fantasy Novelist: He is also a sci-fi/fantasy novelist, diligently working to complete his first novel, Darkstone, by the end of the year.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners...

A terrifying moment of personal crisis can become the catalyst for reclaiming your sense of purpose. Many think that being courageous is an innate trait, when in reality, this is an ability born from resilience. Karla Yepez, HR Director for aerospace manufacturer Trio Manufacturing, embodies this truth. In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Karla shares how she hit rock bottom and the mindset shift that not only brought her back but solidified her mission to lead with humanity.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Power of a Pivot“I had to take a really hard look in the mirror and remind myself who I am.”Karla’s journey reveals that our deepest challenges often prepare us for our greatest callings. When fear paralyzed her, she drew strength from a lifetime of overcoming adversity, realizing, "I was not made to break."The Effect of Curiosity“I didn't just file the file, I would read.”Long before her director title, Karla’s innate curiosity and willingness to ask questions transformed a simple filing job into a launching pad for her career. Her story is a testament to how a learning mindset can turn any role into an opportunity.What Your Darkest Moment Reveals“I was deteriorating, but inside I was still functioning.”The crisis that forced Karla to confront who she was under pressure, was a leader who, despite crumbling internally, never abandoned her duty to her team.The “Human” in Human Resources“Bring back human to human resources.”Build a culture you want to be in, you must embody the principles of empathy and justice, proving that the strongest organizations are built on a foundation of genuine human connection.About the Guest: Karla Yepez is the Director of Human Resources at Trio Manufacturing, Inc., a world-class leader in precision manufacturing for the aerospace and defense sector. Beginning her career in an entry-level filing job, Karla's innate drive to learn and help others propelled her into an unexpected HR role during a crisis. Karla is a passionate advocate for building cultures where people feel valued, protected, and connected to a purpose larger than themselves.Fun Facts:🚀Mission-Driven Pride: She feels a deep, personal connection to her work, knowing that the components her company produces are essential to U.S. national defense. This isn't just a job; it's a contribution to the freedoms she cherishes.🫘Chipotle to Boardroom: Before leading HR, Karla applied the customer service principles she learned at Chipotle to her early office jobs, proving that foundational skills translate everywhere.🎓Driven by Mentorship: She attributes much of her success to the mentors who saw her potential, from the VP who noticed her curiosity while filing to the founders of Trio, who provided security and guidance.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking

As an HR manager, Marvin Lampa knows firsthand that he needs to be a supportive resource for his employees. He also knows how difficult that can be. As a leader, he transformed from his own harshest critic to finding his confident voice. In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Marvin discusses how self-doubt and his inner struggle with public speaking held him back and the simple yet powerful tools that helped him rebuild his communication skills. Learn how to breathe through the nerves and speak your truth.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Inner War of SpeakingHow the anxiety of public speaking is often an internal battle, where leaders psych themselves out with worst-case scenarios and harsh self-criticism, even when their audience perceives them as perfectly confident.The Power of a Single Breath“Breathe out the nerves.” Marvin discovered that the simple, often-overlooked act of taking a deliberate breath is a foundational tool to calm the racing nerves that hijack clarity and confidence before any speaking event.The "That's Okay" Mindset“You need to hear it, even if it's from yourself.” Marvin highlights the transformative tapping technique that culminates in a powerful self-affirmation: giving yourself permission to mess up. This release of pressure leads to a more relaxed, authentic, and ultimately more effective delivery.Confidence as a Service Tool“As long as I affect one person positively, I did my job.”For Marvin, this newfound confidence isn't for applause; it's a critical tool for service. He shares how speaking with authority allows him to better serve employees, ensuring they trust his guidance on important matters like FMLA and feel supported and secure.About the Guest: Marvin Lampa is an HR manager and compliance specialist with extensive expertise in employee leave administration, ADA/FMLA/CFRA policies, and workplace investigations. He skillfully translates complex regulations into clear, actionable strategies.Social Handles:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/marvinlampa  Fun Facts:🥊 Martial Arts Mindset: Marvin has been training in Muay Thai since 2009 and applies the discipline and precision required in the ring to his strategic HR work.🥒 Pickleball Convert: He was adamantly against pickleball until a fateful game turned into a paddle purchase and a full-blown obsession. He’s now happily hooked.🎤 Power Ballad Aficionado: One of his favorite artists is Celine Dion. He knows all the words to "It's All Coming Back to Me Now" and isn't afraid to belt it out.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of...

Professionalism and human necessities should not be at odds. Samantha Bolosan, founder and CEO of The POM Team, proves it. She built a fractional finance firm not by demanding burnout, but by championing a culture where being present in your family life is just as valued as closing the books. In this episode of The Speak in Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Samantha dismantles the myth of the rigid, always-on workplace and shares the operational blueprint that lets her team and business thrive on their own terms.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Peace of Mind" Business Model“I really wanted to build a business that would provide an ecosystem in which all aspects of my life could thrive.”How Samantha’s personal need for integration as a new mom became a market-defining company mission that attracts top talent and loyal clients.To Systemize for the "Human Variable"“I have to have team members that are highly trained and flexible to jump in and jump out where I need them to.”A people-centric business is inherently unpredictable. Samantha reveals her strategic approach to mitigating this risk, not by restricting flexibility, but by building intelligent redundancies.How Written Values Transform Hiring and CultureFor the POM Team, the shift from a vague ethos to a codified set of core values was a game-changer. Writing down their values established clear benchmarks for every hiring decision and team interaction.Be Kind, Not Nice“I like to be kind, but I'm not gonna always be nice. And to me, that means really caring about the person's ultimate outcome.”True authenticity in leadership requires the courage to prioritize long-term growth over short-term likability. Samantha discusses her philosophy that the kindest thing you can do for your team is to be honest and direct.About the Guest: Samantha Bolosan is a fractional finance expert who has redefined what it means to build a high-performance, human-centric company. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, she has been a key financial architect for VC-backed ventures, guiding them from infancy through hyper-growth across tech, multi-channel retail, and agency services. A trusted operator from the outset, Samantha was a founding team member for major brands including LowerMyBills.com, Myspace Labs, and Sole Society.Social Handles:Website: https://www.thepomteam.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pomteam LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthabolosan/ Fun Facts:🐱 Proud Cat Mom: She is utterly devoted to her cat, Bella, who answers to a myriad of nicknames, including Belly Bean and Hells Bells when she's misbehaving.🍚Culinary Adventurer: Samantha believes life is too short for bad food and bad company. She actively surrounds herself with people who make her laugh and is always on the hunt for a new culinary experience.📺Master of Balance: She has perfected the art of the push-and-pull, equally passionate about an intense workout and the pure joy of a lazy day in bed binge-watching a great show.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well...

Raul Franco, a training manager in the security industry, has unlocked the secret to leadership. Learn how to replace filler words with a powerful presence from a leader who transforms shaky speakers into confident communicators. In this insightful episode of the Speak in Flow podcast, Melinda Lee sits down with Raul to pull back the curtain on his 21-year journey. Raul reveals how anxiety almost derailed his training career and the powerful, simple shifts that empowered him and his team to find their authentic voice.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Imposter to Influencer Journey“Don’t give up. Never stop learning.”How a 19-year-old security guard, inspired by true crime detectives and charismatic speakers from The Rock to Wayne Dyer, channeled their confidence to build his own. Raul’s story proves you don’t need a title to be a leader, just a willingness to learn from the best.The "Happy Place" Reset“I pretend that I'm back in the training room... that helped me.”Before a high-pressure talk, Raul mentally transports himself to a familiar, comfortable environment. This simple visualization technique grounds his nerves and allows his natural expertise to shine through, transforming anxiety into authoritative calm.The Filler Word Fix“You use filler words when you are in doubt... then you pause.”Raul and Melinda dismantle the myth that filler words are solved by more practice. Instead, they identify the root cause: self-doubt. The powerful solution isn’t a new word, but a purposeful pause that conveys confidence and control.The Eye Contact BreakthroughHow a reluctant public speaker learned the transformative power of direct connection. By moving beyond scanning the room to making intentional, point-by-point eye contact, you can create a sense of belonging and command attention, even with disengaged listeners.About the Guest: Raul Franco is a security industry veteran who transforms essential safety protocols into engaging and empowering learning experiences. With over two decades on the front lines, he has evolved from a 19-year-old security guard into a dedicated Training Manager, shaping the next generation of professionals. Raul specializes in high-stakes instruction, from active shooter preparedness and high-rise fire safety to life-saving CPR techniques, ensuring teams are not only compliant but also confident and ready to protect people and property.Fun Facts:🏈 Multipotentialite Athlete: Before his security career, Raul trained with dreams of going pro, both on the football field and in the wrestling ring.🎸 Garage Band Rocker: He traded riffs on the guitar in a high school rock band, swapping dreams of stadium tours for the crucial work of public safety.🐾 Passionate Advocate: A dedicated supporter of both women's rights and animal welfare.🏞️ Outdoor Enthusiast: When he's not training teams, he can be found hiking trails and appreciating classic cars, all while still cheering on his favorite football and wrestling stars.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley...

Eileen Wixted, a strategic communications expert with three decades of experience, went from advising Fortune 500 CEOs to uncovering a universal blind spot that derails even the most seasoned leaders, why slowing down to understand your audience is the fastest way to accelerate your message's impact. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Eileen shares the watershed moment that exposed the critical gap between a leader's intent and their audience's reality, and the powerful mindset shifts that transform communication from a monologue into a connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Audience-Centric Blueprint"If you don't think about your audience first, everything else has the potential to go into the ditch, and then everything else doesn't matter."Eileen’s simple framework to avoid disastrous miscommunication: divide your audience, diagnose what’s on their mind, and discern how they feel before you craft your message.The Empathy Edge"You have to seek to understand before being understood."Why the 18-inch journey from the head to the heart is a leader’s most critical path, and how acknowledging your team’s emotional state, even if it’s “of their own making”, builds trust and unlocks performance.The Three-Answer MethodHow to handle any tough question with integrity and confidence by knowing the only three possible responses: “I know and will share,” “I know and cannot share (and here’s why),” or “I don’t know (and here’s how I’ll find out).”Sequence Your Communication Strategically"The real competitive edge is your ability to communicate effectively"A leader’s first words must calm the storm, not fuel it. The hospital merger story illustrates a critical rule: address core emotional fears (like job security) before presenting strategic facts (like growth opportunities).Connect with Eileen WixtedLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-wixted-97b4796/ Website: https://www.thinkwixted.com/ About the Guest: Eileen Wixted is a strategic communications veteran who transforms high-stakes moments into opportunities for trust and connection. With a career spanning three decades, she has become the secret weapon for Fortune 500 companies, navigating their most critical challenges. An Emmy Award-winning former broadcast journalist, Eileen now leverages her insider knowledge to prepare executives for everything from hostile media interviews and government investigations to major organizational change.Fun Facts:🎤 Emmy-Winning Roots: Before shaping the messages of top executives, Eileen was an award-winning journalist.🏆 Award-Winning Leader: Her expertise and leadership were recognized when she was named the Des Moines Business Record’s Woman Business Owner of the Year.🕺 Disco Champion: She possesses undisputed bragging rights as a past winner of Big Daddy’s disco contest in Fort Lauderdale.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their

Kris Miller, a legacy wealth strategist with over 35 years of experience, has helped over 6,000 clients but refuses to gamble their money in the stock market. In this profound conversation with Melinda Lee, Kris reveals the "safe money" strategies of the top 1%, shares the devastating family health crises that showed her the true cost of being unprepared, and explains why a million dollars is no longer enough to self-insure against catastrophe.Learn how to build a tax-free income stream you can never outlive.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Three-Pillar Safety NetKris reveals the three non-negotiable elements everyone must have: 1) Income you can never outlive, 2) The right legal documents (a living trust), and 3) Protection from catastrophic illness. “A million dollars is not a lot of money.”The “At-Home” Care Strategy“You hire your kids, or your friends, or your family to take care of you.”Why nursing homes are a last resort and how to use specific financial vehicles to fund care in your own home, preserving your dignity and your family’s legacy.The Retirement Planning HolidayKris shares a simple, actionable tip from a top financial officer: block out small, consistent chunks of time to focus on your financial fitness, even if it’s just an hour on Sunday.A Practice of GratitudeKris leaves listeners with the daily practice that grounds her, listing five things she’s grateful for every morning and night. This shift in mindset is the foundation for a healthy relationship with money and life.Talking to Your Current Financial Advisor”You go to school, you learn how to make money, you get out of school, and what do you do? You go make money and give it to some guy that gambles it!”Why most traditional planners are incentivized to keep your money at risk, and the empowering questions to ask them about fees, risk exposure, and "safe money" alternatives to balance your portfolio.Connect with Kris MillerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krismiller-legacywealth/ Website: https://healthymoneyhappylife.com/ About the Guest: Kris Miller, "The Money Maestro," is a Legacy Wealth Strategist on a mission to share the financial secrets of the 1% with the 99%. With over 35 years of experience, she has guided more than 6,000 families in building unshakable financial safety nets and creating tax-free income streams they can never outlive. A fierce advocate for "safe money" strategies, Kris boasts a flawless track record: not a single client has lost a dime under her watch. Fun Facts:🎤Double Threat: She's not just a financial maestro; she's also a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter whose music has played on national radio. 🏆Community Champion: Her impactful work led to a Woman of the Year nomination from the Hemet Chamber of Commerce.📖She is the author of the #1 bestselling book, "Ready for PREtirement"About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and

In this wisdom-filled episode of the Speak in Flow podcast, Melinda Lee sits down with Becca Gordon, VP of Sales and Marketing at Shadowbox, to explore how emotional intelligence and authenticity are revolutionizing leadership in startups. With over 25 years of experience in executive, advisor, founder, and investor roles, Becca shares tangible strategies to build courageous, connected, and high-performing sales teams, without sacrificing humanity. From hiring practices to everyday team coaching, her message is clear: empathy isn’t a weakness. It’s a leadership superpower.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Empathy is a Leadership Superpower“You can be warm, personal, and still professional.”Becca challenges outdated corporate norms, showing how empathy isn’t softness; it’s strategic. Leading with emotional intelligence builds deeper trust, more buy-in, and lasting performance.Why Authenticity Wins in SalesForget cold pitches. Becca reveals how genuine curiosity, personal connection, and energy (even through Zoom) cut through digital noise and forge real relationships with prospects.Hire for EQ, Not Just IQBecca’s hiring mantra is simple: “No a-holes.” She explains why choosing team members based on coachability and emotional maturity lays the groundwork for trust, psychological safety, and innovation.Training Through Modeling“People learn more from what you do than what you say.”Becca leads by example, shadowing calls, running low-stakes practice sessions, and normalizing vulnerability within her team culture.Feelings Are Feedback, Not Flaws“You are allowed to have feelings. Feel them. Don’t ruminate in them. Don’t shove them down. Just feel them.”Becca’s golden takeaway: emotional presence is the key to resilience. Suppression leads to burnout; acknowledgement leads to connection and clarity.Connect with Becca GordonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-gordon/About the Guest: Becca Gordon is the VP of Sales and Marketing at Shadowbox, a healthcare startup innovating at the intersection of technology and human connection. With over two decades of leadership experience across executive, advisory, founder, and investor roles, she has a deep commitment to building high-impact teams through empathy, emotional intelligence, and authenticity. Becca previously co-founded and exited a women’s health company, and continues to advise and invest in startups shaping the future of care.Fun Facts:🧒 Becca has two very lively boys = zero chill at home🏕️ She’s a nature lover who believes in fresh air as a leadership reset💼 She advocates for 25-minute meetings, and 5-minute breathwork breaks💬 Becca is known for turning workplace EQ into a competitive advantageAbout Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more....

In this conversation with Melinda Lee, structural engineer and author Wayne Kalayjian reveals how he transformed the untold story of Michelangelo’s collapsing dome,  a crisis that birthed modern engineering,  into a compelling narrative. He reveals how he translated 18th-century Italian archives and complex physics into a gripping narrative and explains why clarity, concision, and audience-centric communication are at the heart of good writing.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Spaghetti Method" of Storytelling"You can’t serve a tangled bowl of pasta, straighten one strand at a time."Wayne’s approach to untangling concurrent events: isolate threads, introduce them logically, and rebuild the big picture.Writing for Humans (Not Just Engineers)"If your readers don’t read it, writing a book is meaningless."Wayne’s mantra: Simplify without "dumbing down." Use analogies (like domes as living organisms) to make technical concepts visceral.The Counterintuitive Power of ConstraintsWhy Wayne embraced the "hardest story to tell" and how constraints (like 18th-century Italian translations) forged sharper communication skills.Audience Connection Without Crossing Boundaries"'Research their world thoroughly, but never presume intimacy - true connection comes from respect, not forced familiarity."Learn how to deeply understand your audience's needs and knowledge level while maintaining professional rapport.Connect with Wayne KalayjianLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whkalayjian/ About the Guest: Wayne Kalayjian, PE, SE, CFE, is a world-renowned structural engineer and storyteller who bridges Michelangelo’s genius with modern engineering in his book Saving Michelangelo’s Dome. As an expert, he’s designed bridges, tunnels, and even rescued Cape Cod’s historic Highland Lighthouse from collapse, but his real passion is transforming technical chaos into compelling narratives for leaders and everyday readers.Fun Facts:✍️ Serial Author: Currently brewing his second book (because one dome-saving saga wasn’t enough).📜 Renaissance Mind: Holds a dual degree in art history + engineering.🌉 Reluctant Hero: Once moved a 4,000-ton lighthouse to safety like it was a chess piece.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook:

In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, Melinda Lee interviews Abdalmohsen Elmalk, a product performance manager at ASML with a Ph.D. in physics. Elmalk shows us how he transformed obstacles into leadership wisdom. Growing up in Sudan, where resources were scarce and opportunities were limited, he refused to let language barriers, financial constraints, or self-doubt prevent him from pursuing a world-class education. His story reveals the profound truth that real leadership is based on the power of human connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Power of BeliefElmalk's journey began with a simple but powerful conviction: "My belief was stronger than my doubts." Growing up in Sudan with limited resources, he faced seemingly insurmountable barriers. Yet his unwavering determination to pursue quality education became the driving force that propelled him across continents.The Role of Human Connection"Surround yourself with people who support your vision."While personal drive is essential, transformative growth often happens through human connections. Behind every "self-made" success are the people who opened doors at critical moments. For Elmalk, that person was a Dutch professor who became his unexpected bridge to opportunities abroad.Adaptability as a Leadership SkillEach new environment - from Dutch labs to Silicon Valley boardrooms - required him to "fit the mood" while maintaining his core values.For leaders navigating today's globalized workplaces, Elmalk's journey offers a masterclass in turning culture shock into a leadership superpower, where every adaptation strengthens your ability to connect across boundaries.The Missing Link in Hybrid TeamsIn our era of remote work and global teams, Elmalk identifies emotional disconnect as the silent productivity killer. His solution is deceptively simple yet profound: "Add humanity to communication."Connect with Abdalmohsen ElmalkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elmalk/ About the Guest: Abdalmohsen Elmalk is a semiconductor innovator and cross-cultural leader who bridges physics expertise with human-centered leadership at ASML, the tech giant powering Silicon Valley’s chip revolution. As Manager of the E-beam Application Products team, he transforms complex tech into real-world solutions while mentoring global teams.Fun Facts:🔬 Microscope Whisperer: Earned his PhD studying single molecules (because why think small when you can think atomic?).💡 First-Principles Leader: Approaches management like physics, observing, adapting, and creating the right conditions for teams to shine.🧠 Polyglot Brain: Fluent in 3 languages, 4 scientific disciplines, and the universal language of authentic connection.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She...

Kaylee Keil, HR professional, leadership coach, and board member, joins Melinda Lee in this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast to unpack why communication is the most critical and often overlooked skill for leaders. From her experience curating HR events at The Nimble Group, Kaylee reveals how failing to "own" communication drives turnover, while intentional leadership fuels psychological safety and profitability.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Crisis PointWhy 70% of employees leave jobs due to poor leadership, and how companies that prioritize communication training see 150x higher profitability.The Power of Proactive Connection“If you see something, say something.”Kaylee's golden rule for leaders to prevent miscommunication and build trust is to ask simple questions that transform teams. Questions like “How do you prefer to receive support?” and “What do you value in a leader?” can avert crises before they begin.The Micro-Moments That Matter“The future of work is human, and it starts with leaders who communicate with courage, clarity, and care.”Leadership isn’t about grand gestures but daily acts of ownership: recognition, check-ins, and vulnerability. Every situation, even a tough conversation, can be reframed as an opportunity for connection.How to Support Your Employees“Find where you can get that support from… If you feel like you can’t find support in any avenue, you’re probably not in the right place.”Name your challenge openly (“I have a challenge I need help with”), seek allies, and leverage internal resources, but recognize when a culture won’t change.Connect with Kaylee KeilLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleekeil17/ Website: https://nimblegroup.co/ About the Guest: Kaylee Keil is an HR innovator and leadership catalyst who has spent years turning workplaces into people-first ecosystems. As the Attendee Engagement Specialist and Partnerships Coordinator for Nimble Group, she architects events that transform careers.Fun Facts:🔮 First-Day Fire Drill: Once led a new hire orientation… on her own first day at a job. (Talk about baptism by fire.)🎨 Beads & Hustle: Runs K&KMaine, crafting jewelry that’s as bold and intentional as her leadership philosophy.📜 Degree-Free Disruptor: Built her career through hands-on hustle- proof that titles don’t define talent.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: a...

Anna Radulovski, CEO of WomenTech Network and author of Chief in Tech, went from navigating male-dominated tech conferences to creating the world’s largest platform for women in technology. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with host Melinda Lee, Anna reveals how resilience, generosity, and imperfect action can dismantle barriers and why true leadership isn’t about being the smartest in the room, but making space for others to rise with you..In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Hidden Cost of PerfectionismHow imposter syndrome thrives in workplaces not designed for women, and why “waiting until you’re ready” is a myth.Resilience as a Non-Negotiable“It’s not about being the smartest in the room, it’s about making space for others to rise with you.”Lessons from top female tech leaders: Every one of them faced bias, setbacks, or rejection, but viewed challenges as growth opportunities.Fixing Diversity Starts Day One“When you lift even one voice, you start a ripple that can change everything.”Why startups must build inclusive cultures from the beginning, not as an afterthought.How collaboration among women’s networks creates systemic change.The Networking Mindset Shift“Be truly interested, not just interesting. Awkward interactions are part of the journey.”“How can I help this person?” vs. “What can I get?” Why generosity unlocks authentic connections… And why women don’t need to “get it right” the first time.Mentorship is Good. Sponsorship is Game-Changing.While mentorship provides guidance, sponsorship is what propels careers forward. Many women undervalue the importance of cultivating sponsors who can champion them for promotions and leadership roles.Connect with Anna RadulovskiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaradulovski/X: https://x.com/annaradulovskiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna.radulovski.official/📖Grab Anna’s book, Chief in TechAbout the Guest: Anna Radulovski is the visionary founder of WomenTech Network, a global powerhouse with 150,000+ members across 179 countries, and the architect behind transformative initiatives like Coding Girls and Executive Women in Tech (EWIT). But don’t let her accolades fool you (though they’re impressive: Rising Star for the Global Award of Achievement, 50 Women in ESG honoree). At heart, she’s a community builder.Fun Facts:🌆 Times Square Takeover: Her book recently lit up the NYC skyline, because if you’re going to champion women in tech, why not do it in neon?📚 From Interviews to Impact: Authored Chief in Tech after interviewing 50+ senior female tech leaders.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict...

You can’t persuade people when you’re stuck in your own head.Stephen Mar knows what it’s like to lose an audience. As Chief Legal & Administrative Officer at Odeko. But his biggest communication breakthrough didn’t happen in a courtroom. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Stephen reveals how an early-career email taught him to master persuasion and cross-departmental buy-in.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The 3-Bucket Filter for Effective CommunicationStephen’s framework for sharing information:Need to know (Essential for their role)Nice to know (Builds connection, but isn’t critical)Harmful to know (Creates distraction or anxiety)Pre-Meeting Persuasion Tactics"Read the room before you’re in the room." Stephen’s team preps by identifying allies and skeptics, then tailoring arguments to each stakeholder’s "language" (e.g., finance cares about risk, HR cares about culture).The Authenticity Advantage"If it’s not authentically you, you’ll slip." How Stephen’s debate-team roots taught him to adapt his style, without sacrificing his core identity, to persuade executives and coffee-shop owners alike.Lead with Your ConclusionEarly in his career, Stephen learned the hard way that over-explaining undermines persuasion.  Now, he structures all communication by front-loading the key takeaway, then adding context only if needed. "Ask yourself: Does this detail help my audience make a decision, or just make me feel thorough?"Connect with Stephen MarLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmar/ Twitter/X and Instagram:  @stephenmarAbout the Guest: As Chief Legal and Administrative Officer at Odeko, Stephen Mar (Legal strategist) is the operational backbone for thousands of coffee shops and cafés, overseeing everything from high-stakes corporate governance to the human side of HR. But don’t let the title fool you, this former WeWork turnaround architect and Sullivan & Cromwell litigator is equally comfortable dissecting merger paperwork as he is explaining employment law to baristas. Fun Facts:🎤 From Debate Champ to Boardroom Whisperer: His competitive debate trophies are proof of his persuasion skills.🐕 Zen Master: Stephen loves hiking, traveling, playing instruments, and spending time with his dog, Zumi.☕ Caffeine Connoisseur: Professionally supports coffee shops; personally tests their products with the rigor of a sommelier (paired with occasional cocktail chasers).About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives...

Kevin D. Oden, CEO of Kevin D. Oden & Associates and former head of operational risk at Wells Fargo, knows the high-stakes world of financial compliance isn’t for the faint of heart. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, he reveals how to spot hollow expertise, why "big name" consultants often fail smaller institutions, and the uncomfortable truths leaders must confront to protect their organizations.Learn why honesty, not optics, is the ultimate risk management strategy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Consultant Trap"If your consultant hasn’t carried the burden of compliance themselves, they can’t guide you through it."How "big name" firms lure clients with senior partners, then delegate critical work to junior teams lacking real-world regulatory experience.The Toughest ConversationWhy Kevin insists on documenting every regulatory gap... even when clients beg him to omit them."I keep a copy of every recommendation. If regulators audit my work, I won’t be the reason a client fails."Leading by Example (Even on Bad Days)How a toxic former boss taught Kevin the cost of poor leadership: "He berated teams daily and was fired within a year."🌟Golden rule: "There should be no surprises at work. Communicate openly, even when it’s hard."The Local Reality of Global RulesWhy regulations are universal, but enforcement is hyper-local, and how to prepare for examiner biases."Assume every examiner will interpret rules differently. Over-prepare, but don’t overcorrect."Connect with Kevin D. OdenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-oden-3b8a39a/ Website: kdoa.com About the Guest: Kevin D. Oden is a rare hybrid of mathematician, risk whisperer, and hands-on regulator, a leader who’s as comfortable dissecting complex models as he is navigating boardroom battles. As CEO of Kevin D. Oden & Associates, he helps financial institutions untangle high-stakes compliance crises, drawing on decades of experience as Wells Fargo’s Head of Operational Risk and Compliance and architect of their model risk management framework.Fun Facts:🎾 From Courts to Calculus: Swapped tennis tournaments for differential equations, but still brings a competitor’s edge to risk management.🚀 Rocket Scientist Turned Regulator: Proves analytical rigor applies equally to astrophysics and audit trails.📚 Professor at Heart: Taught math at Harvard, now “educates” clients on regulatory loopholes with far higher stakes.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she...

Festivals bring joy, foster connection, and create transformative spaces, and James Weisberg learned from a young age how to harness their power to build a visionary future.As the founder of Project Vitality and co-founder of Cresci Labs, James blends entertainment, education, and community impact through festivals, startup ecosystems, and a mindset he calls “Level 12” where success defies imagination. In this energizing conversation with Melinda Lee, he shares how trust, love, and bold action unlock opportunities beyond expectation.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Level 12 Mindset“Beyond imagination, beyond explanation, beyond expectation.”James’s core philosophy: Trust that life’s outcomes will surpass your plans. Whether in business (like his surprise partnership with Alley Times) or personal growth, he leans into divine timing and unseen forces.Festivals as Change-Making PlatformsFrom his family’s Rock the Bells hip-hop festivals to Project Vitality, James designs events that entertain, educate, and elevate, blending music, job fairs, wellness workshops (breathwork, legal advice), and environmental activism. “We’re the aspirin for people’s headaches.”Networking with “No Agenda”Why James prioritizes authentic relationships over transactions, and how a random festival connection landed him a Fortune 500 client years later.Alchemizing Struggle“This too shall pass, good and bad.” James reflects on Jim Carrey’s advice and turning anger into action.Natural Healing: Rejecting pharmaceutical numbing for breathwork, meditation, and holistic remedies.Connect with James WeisbergLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-weisberg-49388b142/ About the Guest: James Weisberg is a serial entrepreneur and dealmaker who bridges the worlds of data-driven growth and high-stakes commodities trading. As founder of Cresci Labs, he helps businesses scale through hyper-targeted B2B lead funnels and revenue-optimized marketing systems. His other playground? Structuring multimillion-dollar deals in fuel, gold, lithium, carbon credits, and even private equity stakes in sports teams, all while navigating global trade regulations and tax-efficient asset structures.Beyond the boardroom, James grew up backstage at festivals, booking artists for his father’s iconic Rock the Bells hip-hop events and later launching his own nonprofit, Project Vitality, to merge music with education and job fairs.Fun Facts:🎤 Festival Kid Turned Founder: From handing out flyers as a teen to producing his own events, James believes festivals are the ultimate community alchemy.⚽ Triple-Threat Athlete: Played soccer, football, and baseball; now channels that competitive edge into deep-sea fishing and globetrotting.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley...

Jaime Lee, USC trustee, real estate CEO, and keynote speaker to thousands, once hyperventilated into a paper bag before speeches. In this vulnerable conversation with Melinda Lee, she reveals how she rewired her mindset from "I can’t say the alphabet if called on" to commanding boardrooms and commencement stages. Discover her counterintuitive secret: preparedness isn’t about perfection, it’s about pivoting.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The “Rubber Band” MomentHow immigrant roots and a "keep your head down" upbringing fueled Jaime’s terror of speaking, and the visceral physical reactions she had to conquer (shaking hands, a burning neck, and a mind going blank).The Volunteer CureWhy saying "yes" to unpaid speaking gigs (even while shaking) became her secret weapon: "It doesn’t get easier until you do it. But every time you do, it gets easier."The game-changer: Speaking about scholarships for deserving students gave her a "mission over fear" mindset.When Plans Go SidewaysJaime’s "decision tree" method for high-stakes negotiations, and why she backtracks to the human element when things derail."People surprise you. If you’re only prepared for ‘perfect,’ you’ll crumble."Gen Z, Nuance, and the Art of DisagreeingWhy social media trains us to avoid hard conversations, and how to "dance" with differing opinions without sacrificing conviction."You can’t change systems by throwing rocks from the outside. Get in the room, then speak truth with gravitas."Connect with Jaime L. LeeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jleela/ About the Guest: Jaime Lee is the CEO of the Jamison group of companies, a powerhouse real estate enterprise that owns and operates over 18 million square feet of commercial, multifamily, retail, and medical properties across Southern California, with a $3.2 billion net asset value. Her expertise has earned her 100+ speaking engagements for organizations like ULI, JP Morgan, and UCLA, covering real estate, global supply chains, and leadership.Fun Facts:🏊 Triathlon Newbie: After completing her first triathlon in 2023, she’s training for another, proving that growth happens outside comfort zones.🧬 Longevity Geek: Fascinated by the science of aging, she’s as curious about life extension as she is about real estate development.👧 Big Sister Energy: The eldest (and only daughter) of four siblings, she’s been leading since day one.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: