Badass Leaders Podcast: Leadership, Career Growth, and Company Culture

In this episode, Dr. John Tuders breaks down what it truly means to lead with courage, clarity, and integrity in a world that often rewards shortcuts. He shares the lessons that shaped him, from growing up in Queens to becoming a professor and trusted voice in leadership. You'll hear real stories, practical insights, and a grounded perspective on trust, culture, conflict, and personal growth. If you're serious about becoming a stronger, more self-aware leader, this conversation will push you in all the right ways.

Questions answered during this conversation:

1. What is the real difference between a leader and a manager?
2. How do you build trust in a way that actually influences people?
3. Why does culture matter more than strategy when scaling a team?
4. How should leaders approach conflict resolution without damaging relationships?
5. What role do values play in modern leadership, and why do they matter?
6. How can leaders stay authentic while still driving performance and accountability?
7. What does it take to become a more self-aware, human-centered leader?
8. How can leaders grow personally and professionally without losing who they are?

Learn More About Dr. John Tuders:

• LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-john-tuders-dba-7b164a20/

Mentioned in this Episode: 

• Kristi's episode: https://youtu.be/_beumKc6pDI?si=3OQ5fXDB5eDdmXXR
• Raheem's episode: https://youtu.be/qab7tPVmWng?si=g3KXAxtppBkDurq0
• Anne Chow's episode: https://youtu.be/JrgdCCOwkG0?si=LafOxR7Y3QZWwhel
• Enneagram:  https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/how-the-enneagram-system-works/
• Radical Candor by Kim Scott: https://www.radicalcandor.com/
• The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo: https://www.juliezhuo.com/book/manager.html
• Uncommon by Tony Dungy:  https://www.amazon.com/Uncommon-Finding-Your-Path-Significance/dp/1414326823
• Relational Intelligence by Dharius Daniels: https://dhariusdaniels.com/rq/
• Boundaries by Henry Cloud andJohn Townsend:  https://www.amazon.com/Boundaries-Updated-Expanded-When-Control/dp/0310351804

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

In this episode of Badass Leaders, Raheem Beyah, Georgia Tech's Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs joins Angela to talk about innovation, mentorship, and the evolution of leadership in higher education. Born and raised in Atlanta, Raheem shares how his grandmother's biscuits and a childhood love of video games first sparked his curiosity for technology—and how that curiosity became a lifelong mission to empower others through education and innovation.

From Georgia Tech's groundbreaking AI Makerspace to national initiatives in cybersecurity and access to STEM education, Raheem reveals what it takes to lead at scale without losing sight of people. Listeners will walk away with fresh insights on resilience, mentorship, and building legacy through service, integrity, and human connection. Topics Covered 

• The story behind how biscuits and video games shaped Raheem's early path
• What the Atlanta Public Schools taught him about resilience and purpose
• The difference between a leader and a manager—and when to be both
• How to approach conflict with empathy and strategy
• Building cultures of trust, innovation, and accountability in large organizations
• The vision behind Georgia Tech's AI Makerspace and AI-driven education
• Why mentorship and access remain the cornerstones of true leadership
• What "leaving a legacy" really means in higher education 

Learn More About Raheem Beyah:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raheem-beyah/
• https://ece.gatech.edu/directory/raheem-beyah

Mentioned in this Episode: 

• Holy Shift: Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow: https://holyshiftresearch.transistor.fm/
• AI Makerspace at Georgia Tech:  https://coe.gatech.edu/academics/ai-for-engineering/ai-makerspace
• Bud Moeller's episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMA1L2B5xsM&t=179s
• Building Your A-Team blog: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/building-your-a-team/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

What does it really mean to leave a legacy? In this Badass Leaders Podcast "Best Of" episode, we bring together powerful insights from leaders who are redefining what impact looks like.

Together, these guests offer perspectives that challenge traditional ideas of success and invite us to think bigger about purpose, service, and the mark we leave behind.

If you're ready to build something that lasts longer than your title or tenure, this episode is for you.

Tune in to explore:

• How today's leaders define and live their legacies
• Why gratitude and service are at the heart of lasting impact
• Practical ways to lead with purpose—starting now

Learn more from these guests by watching their full episodes:

• Aimee Christian: https://youtu.be/Ukjz6NJJfUI?si=rMg0FeYDdRY8SZu9
• Andrew Dingee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eR-ui05Or0&t=15s
• Bud Moeller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMA1L2B5xsM&t=142s
• Caitlin Johnson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX8VIcCiaZA
• Gia Ganesh: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vh69c_f4Sv8&t=33s
• Karen Valencic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8X2S2-8vQI&t=2949s
• Dr. Kofi Smith: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CKPG7nfwww&t=12s
• Dr. John Tuders: Coming out soon! 

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/ Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest? If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

How Trauma, Mindset, and Leadership Intersect: A Powerful Conversation with Suzy Wraines and Angela Gill Nelms

What happens when a military veteran, healthcare professional, and entrepreneur sits down with a leadership expert to unpack the truth about resilience, trauma, and purpose? In this powerful conversation, Angela Gill Nelms and Suzy Wraines dive deep into the real-life journey of healing, self-discovery, and the mindset shifts that define modern leadership.

From growing up in Alaska to serving in the military and navigating the emotional toll of transitioning to civilian life, Suzy shares lessons on identity, self-awareness, and the cost of compassion fatigue—especially in veterinary medicine and healthcare entrepreneurship. Together, they explore how trauma impacts leadership, why regulating trauma isn’t the same as resolving it, and how energy alignment influences success and relationships.

The discussion also tackles questions many leaders and entrepreneurs are asking:
- How does trauma affect decision-making and leadership?
- What’s the real difference between regulating vs. resolving trauma?
- How can healthcare professionals transition into entrepreneurship without burning out?
- Why is self-awareness the foundation of authentic leadership?
- How can accountability and structure accelerate growth in your first year of business?

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, veteran, or emerging entrepreneur, this conversation reveals how to build resilience, reclaim identity, and lead with authenticity. It’s a must-listen for anyone asking how to turn trauma into transformation and lead with courage, clarity, and compassion.

Key Takeaways:
- How Trauma Impacts Leadership—and How to Heal From It
- Why Self-Awareness Is the Most Underrated Leadership Skill
- The Hard Truth About Transitioning From Military to Civilian Life
- What Every Entrepreneur Gets Wrong in Their First Year
- The Difference Between Regulating and Resolving Trauma
- Why Compassion Fatigue Is Silently Burning Out Healthcare Workers
- How to Build a Strong Foundation for Long-Term Success
- How Curiosity Without Judgment Unlocks Personal Growth
- The Power of Authenticity: Why True Leaders Put Self-Care First
- How Accountability and Community Beat Entrepreneur Isolation

Themes: trauma healing, leadership, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurship, resilience, personal growth, veterans’ transition, healthcare burnout

Mentioned this Episode:
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: https://www.amazon.es/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748 
- Trauma Energetics Coaching — Suzy’s certification and current modality

Learn more about Suzy at:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzywraines/
- Website: http://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@startingabusinesssimplified
- Podcast: https://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com/podcast
- Free Video Series: https://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com/5-steps-landing

Keywords:
resilience, military experience, PTSD, self-discovery, entrepreneurship, healing, Alaska, identity, trauma, leadership, mindset, leadership, entrepreneurship, trauma, health coaching, veterinary medicine, self-awareness, trauma energetics, personal healing, healthcare professionals, healthcare coaching, business structure, GAP planning, accountability, authenticity, conflict resolution, energy alignment, leadership, personal growth, entrepreneurship

About Angela:
Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time.Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

 @AngelaGillNelms

#TraumaHealing
#LeadershipPodcast
#Resilience
#MindsetShift
#EmotionalIntelligence
#VeteranStories
#HealthcareBurnout
#EntrepreneurMindset
#SelfAwareness
#AuthenticLeadership
#PTSDRecovery
#PersonalGrowthJourney
#WomenEntrepreneurs
#EnergyAlignment
#compassionfatigue

 @startingabusinesssimplified ​

In 2010, Brian Rowe was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for a nonviolent drug conspiracy. Most people would have seen that as the end. Brian saw it as a turning point.

In this episode, he shares how he transformed pain into purpose, turned crisis into opportunity, and rebuilt his life to become a business catalyst, AWS Partner, and community leader.

Brian’s story is a masterclass in resilience and leadership—from surviving “Bloody Beaumont” to redefining success through service, innovation, and mentorship. If you’ve ever faced adversity and wondered how to turn it into something bigger, this conversation will change how you see what’s possible.

Learn More About Brian Rowe:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16VLBEirGK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Instagram:@brianrowe777
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-rowe78
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@brianrowe777
- Twitter / X: https://x.com/iamblrowe
- Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-shift-podcast/id1803526838
- 📘 Buy the Book: Crisis: Rage, Reflection, Reality - https://www.lulu.com/shop/brian-rowe/crisis-rage-reflection-reality/hardcover/product-q6dnpyk.html

Key Themes:
- Redemption and Second Chances: How Brian’s 30-year sentence became the turning point that defined his life’s mission.
- Mindset and Resilience: Why “stop fighting to come home and start preparing to come home” became his life philosophy.
- Leadership Through Adversity: Lessons learned in prison about compassion, discipline, and influencing others through service.
- Faith and Grit: How spirituality, journaling, and declaring self-worth shaped his transformation.
- The Power of Mentorship: How figures like a high school janitor and prison mentor planted seeds that would later bloom into leadership.
- From Felon to Founder: Brian’s journey from federal inmate to Amazon-recognized business catalyst and public speaker.
- Criminal Justice Reform: Inside his work with FAM (Families Against Mandatory Minimums) and his advocacy on Capitol Hill.
- Creativity as Healing: The story behind Crisis: Rage, Reflection, Reality—a collaborative book of art and essays from incarcerated men.
- Love in Unlovable Environments: Learning to lead, love, and serve while behind bars.
- The Badass Mindset: Why resilience, courage, and authenticity define true leadership.

Questions Answered in This Episode:
- How do you rebuild your life after prison?
- What is the difference between refining and defining your past?
- How can trauma, faith, and mindset turn a crisis into opportunity?
- What lessons can business leaders learn from surviving prison?
- How do you find purpose when everything feels lost?
- What’s the secret to resilience in leadership and life?
- How can one person’s story create systemic change in justice reform?
- What does it really mean to be a “Badass Leader”?
- What is the CARES Act clemency program?
- How to turn trauma into purpose?
- Resilience and mindset lessons from prison to leadership
- How to overcome failure and find purpose again?
- What defines a true badass leader?

Keywords:
resilience stories, prison reform, leadership podcast, criminal justice reform, mindset transformation, badass leadership, personal growth, clemency success stories, second chances, overcoming adversity, faith and grit, trauma healing, self-awareness in leadership, inspirational podcast, rehabilitation stories, crisis to opportunity, Angela Gill Nelms podcast, Brian Rowe interview, entrepreneurship after prison, purpose-driven leadership

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website: theagngroup.com

Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

 @brianrowe777  

#Resilience
#RedemptionStory
#LeadershipPodcast
#SecondChances
#CriminalJusticeReform
#MindsetShift
#OvercomingAdversity
#FaithAndGrit
#BadassLeaders
#PurposeDrivenLeadership
#CrisisToOpportunity
#EntrepreneurAfterPrison
#TransformationJourney
#PrisonReform
#AngelaGillNelms
#BrianRowe

In this thought-provoking conversation, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Dr. Nasir Mokarram to explore what it takes to translate groundbreaking science into real-world solutions. From developing a tumor-guiding medical device for brain cancer (GBM) to shaping the future of venture investments at Emory University, Dr. Mokarram shares his journey from researcher to entrepreneur to investor—and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Together, they discuss how to bridge the gap between academic discovery and commercialization, the role of AI in healthcare innovation, and the future of universities, leadership, and entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing world. This episode is a masterclass in innovation, resilience, and visionary leadership.

Key Topics:
- Brain Cancer Breakthroughs: How a revolutionary device guides tumors out of the brain to enable continuous treatment and monitoring.
- Translational Science: What it really takes to move medical research from Nature publications to human clinical trials.
- University Innovation Models: How academia can evolve to reward scientists for commercialization, not just publication.
- Entrepreneurship in Academia: Why not every scientist should be a CEO—and how to build the right team for success.
- Intellectual Property & Funding: Why IP protection is critical for attracting investors and translating discoveries to market.
- AI in Healthcare: How artificial intelligence could cut costs, accelerate trials, and reshape the biotech landscape.
- The Future of Higher Education: Will universities survive the rise of ChatGPT, TikTok learning, and problem-based education?
- Leadership vs. Management: The key traits that separate visionary leaders from effective managers.
- Diversity, Inclusion & Innovation: Why different worldviews and experiences make for stronger, more creative teams.
- Building Atlanta’s Innovation Ecosystem: Why Georgia Tech, Emory, and the South are the next frontier for biotech and venture growth.

Questions Answered:
How can universities reward innovation and entrepreneurship?
How can AI lower the cost of drug and device development?
Why is IP protection essential for healthcare startups?
How can academia and industry work together more effectively?
What can Atlanta learn from Silicon Valley’s startup evolution?
How do we train the next generation of entrepreneurial scientists?
What does the future of higher education look like in the AI era?

Today’s guest is Dr. Nassir Mokarram—an academic leader, biotech entrepreneur, and innovation strategist shaping the future of science and commercialization.

He is the co-founder and inventor behind Exvade Bioscience, the Executive Director of the Emory BioFoundry Institute, an Associate Professor at Emory, and Director of Venture Capital Investments at Emory Investment Management.

Nassir works at the intersection of biotechnology, university innovation, entrepreneurship, and venture investing, where he’s helping redefine how academic discoveries become real-world impact.

Based in Atlanta, he’s passionate about unlocking the region’s innovation potential and building a stronger ecosystem where research, industry, and leadership come together to create meaningful change. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nassir-mokarram-5b966017/

Mentioned in this episode:
Biolocity (Georgia Tech x Emory): https://biolocity.gatech.edu/
Investment: The Last Liberal Art by Robert Hagstrom: https://amzn.to/3WCJmZT
Golden Goose Award – Celebrating basic research that transforms society. https://www.goldengooseaward.org/
Nature Materials – Journal where the Tumor Monorail research was published:  https://www.nature.com/nmat/
BBC Article: “Tumor Monorail” – Coverage of the research. https://www.sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/tumour-monorail-on-the-fast-track-for-human-trials

Keywords:
biomedical innovation, brain cancer research, GBM device, translational medicine, entrepreneurship in academia, Emory University, Georgia Tech innovation, AI in healthcare, leadership podcast, university commercialization, intellectual property, venture capital in biotech, startup ecosystem Atlanta, academic entrepreneurship, medical device innovation, Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms, Nasir Mokarram, higher education future, leadership vs management, biotech funding strategy

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website: theagngroup.com

About Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].
 @georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE @emoryuniversity @biolocityinnovation @BMEGeorgiaTechEmory ​

What happens when a high-achieving biopharma executive steps off the corporate ladder to build a life driven by freedom, impact, and authenticity? In this episode, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Dr. Aimee Christian—communications strategist, professor, and nonprofit CEO—for a candid conversation about career reinvention, leadership courage, burnout recovery, and designing a purpose-filled portfolio career.

After 25 years in global pharma, Aimee now leads a multidimensional career as a Boston University Professor, President of the Massachusetts Society for Medical Research, and CEO of YES Communications. She opens up about what it really takes to leave safety for possibility, balance multiple passions, and build a career that supports your whole life—not just your job title.

If you’re exploring career pivots, leadership growth, burnout, women in leadership, or redefining success, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Topics:
- The Power of the Portfolio Career: Why designing a multifaceted career can unlock freedom, fulfillment, and growth.
- Leadership & Communication: How direct communication and radical candor can strengthen trust and elevate teams.
- Career Reinvention: What to do when your leadership style no longer fits your environment.
From Burnout to Balance: How calendar management, boundaries, and transparency keep you energized.
- Crisis Communication 101: Why every company needs a playbook before chaos strikes.
- Trust in the Age of Misinformation: How leaders can earn credibility and build integrity in an AI-driven world.
- Leading vs. Managing: The mindset shifts that transform good managers into visionary leaders.
- Bravery at Work: How to know when to walk away, how to ask for what you want, and how to own your voice as a woman leader.

Questions Answered:
- How do you know when it’s time to walk away from a corporate career?
- What is a “portfolio career,” and how do you start one?
- How do women navigate being called “aggressive” instead of “assertive”?
- What’s the biggest mistake leaders make in crisis communication?
- How can you avoid burnout while managing multiple professional roles?
- How can AI make leaders more effective—without losing critical thinking?
- What’s the real difference between managing and leading?
- How can leaders rebuild trust in a world full of misinformation?

Key Takeaways:
- Be brave enough to outgrow spaces that can’t hold your potential.
- Transparency builds trust and opportunity—say what you want out loud.
- Preparation and structure create freedom, not restriction.
- Not every issue is a crisis—learn to discern before you burn out.
- AI is a sidekick, not a replacement for human integrity or judgment.
- Leaders elevate others’ ideas; managers execute tasks.
- There is always a solution—you just haven’t found it yet.

Learn more about Aimee at:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-christian-phd/
- Website: https://www.yescommunications.net/
- Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLb0PLQrgJk  @PRovokeMedia
- Yes Communications: https://www.yescommunications.net/

Mentioned in this Episode:
- Start With Why by Simon Sinek
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott
- The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
- A Bit of Optimism with Simon Sinek
- Provoke Media Podcast (episode featuring Aimee Christian): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLb0PLQrgJk
- Women in Leadership Podcast (episode featuring Aimee Christian): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wil-talk-women-in-leadership-talk/id1534719698?i=1000673593096
- Holy Shift: Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow (hosted by Angela Gill Nelms): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrvOSuVFvyE&list=PLMTX0UQNGP1eczLJWP0uWZY3ImFr1rwHS
- Aimee’s chicken recipe: https://amateurprochef.com/2025/09/10/chicken-lababdar-2/#wpzoom-recipe-card

Keywords:

leadership podcast, portfolio career, career reinvention, women in leadership, reputation management, crisis communication, avoiding burnout, professional growth, authenticity in leadership, AI in business, bravery at work, assertive women leaders, direct communication,  career redesign, purpose-driven leadership, Boston University, Angela Gill Nelms

Search Queries:

How to reinvent your career after burnout
What is a portfolio career?
How to communicate like a leader
Crisis communication tips for executives
Women in leadership: assertive vs. aggressive
How to rebuild trust in an AI world
How to create a fulfilling career after 40
How to prevent burnout as a high achiever

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website:
theagngroup.com
www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest? Email [email protected].  @AngelaGillNelms ​

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, we dive deep into the critical differences between managers and leaders. Our guests explore how authentic leadership is about influence, empathy, and empowering people, while management often focuses on processes, outcomes, and tasks. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, running a team, or building your own organization, this conversation will help you reflect on your leadership style and understand the impact you have on those around you.

Key Topics Covered:

• Defining the difference between a manager and a leader.
• The role of empathy and emotional intelligence in effective leadership.
• How to foster followers vs employees in your team.
• Stories of leadership lessons learned from both mentors and challenging managers.
• The concept of the "shamager" vs. the unicorn leader and their impact on work-life balance.
• Practical insights into servant leadership and inspiring your team.
• Understanding the vision vs execution continuum in organizational leadership.
• Why leadership is more than positional authority—it's about influence, trust, and guiding growth.

Watch the full interviews from this episode

• Bud Moeller: https://youtu.be/DMA1L2B5xsM?si=sYLW-5a85Iha8bV-
• Daniel Steere: https://youtu.be/3ony669Dmy4?si=1i7Nye651ZFqbW2U
• Eric Doherty: https://youtu.be/mMCg-aW8eoQ?si=A-iM2-9PkC_xNxM3
• Jacob Karnes: https://youtu.be/C3mpwikZWXw?si=rQiGE_-ItM46uuVn
• Karen Valencic: https://youtu.be/Q8X2S2-8vQI?si=xfu62KSJSaX0HAL4
• Dr. Kofi Smith: https://youtu.be/5CKPG7nfwww?si=ImnBcZ9eGZQcC0lJ
• Kristi Straw: https://youtu.be/_beumKc6pDI?si=8Fac4UdthyC_hyLa
• Mark Williams: https://youtu.be/RVhQK9FT0hI?si=8KE2Lkd8Cxn1RdHq
• Sherry Farrugia: https://youtu.be/lrFVN8oN0g0?si=3ErXgYAlL5YUw83W
• Sophie Badré: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eK8eBtQMtM&t=8s
• Steve Garraty: https://youtu.be/wXy99x8eDBA?si=NQ3eTEtdmUcY8qo4

About Angela: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.

Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com. 

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at [email protected] to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass/podcasts
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/73Dg8OQ7SqtGtSiCWQUfLB?si=c17c0f1abe29446f
• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/badass-leaders-podcast-brave-hearts-brave-conversations/id1788987881
• Audible:  https://www.audible.com/podcast/Badass-Leaders-Podcast-Brave-Hearts-Brave-Conversations-Badass-Leaders/B0DS2CQL9V?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
• Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]. 

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Why do so many high performers still feel like frauds even when they’re crushing it?

In this powerful episode of The Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Self Worth Sam Osborne  @selfworthsam   and attorney-turned-coach David Graf for a raw, funny, and deeply clarifying conversation about imposter syndrome, values, self-worth, burnout, conflict, and modern leadership.

Sam shares how a former teacher, entertainer, and human beatboxer turned crippling imposter syndrome into a 30-day self-worth framework used by leaders worldwide.

David reveals how he hit burnout at 29, walked away from a prestigious law career, rebuilt his life through meditation, and now coaches executives through composure-based conflict resolution.

Together, they break down:
- why managers control while leaders influence
- how values—not goals—drive real leadership
- how childhood conditioning shapes our leadership style
- why overthinking is the #1 killer of executive presence
- practical tools to handle conflict without losing your cool

If you’re tired of leading from fear, burnout, or “performing” confidence, this episode is your permission slip to lead with clarity, courage, and self-worth.

Key Questions Answered:
- What’s the real difference between a manager and a leader?
- How does imposter syndrome affect high-level professionals?
- How do you define your true values—and lead from them?
- How do leaders stay composed during conflict?
- How can overthinkers become decisive leaders?
- What does “self-worth vs self-esteem” really mean?
- How does meditation impact leadership and relationships?
- How can leaders stop taking everything so personally?

Learn More About Samuel Osborne and David Graf:

LINKEDIN
Sam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-osborne-usa/
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-graf-008781258/

WEBSITES:
Sam https://selfworthsam.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/@UCM31OL-JEtxRud6zb5isMxA
David https://www.liferaftcoaching.com/

BOOKS:
Sam https://www.amazon.com.au/How-Beat-Imposter-Syndrome-Confident/dp/B09L4NV136?ref_=ast_author_dp
David: https://www.amazon.com.au/Meeting-Martial-Arts-Approaches-Contentious-ebook/dp/B0FH79LH8W/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SOS9D5N2P77O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.D4hyuNXbFreXqmTQ6oKCSsH8bOKh2xYPNm_Pyx8maRsIqFDPZ7x2h4DdSmR2s6DAFz47jNWm80dnUo2uzU-f-siBefynEE8bWuOyifv_kpw.A5aaXdm4hgFv_RQidWMB6j6INVCnTc5oKVJ1DVge8YI&dib_tag=se&keywords=meeting+martial+arts+david&qid=1754326425&s=books&sprefix=meeting+martial+arts+david%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1

Mentioned in This Episode
Dr. John Demartini – Values Determination Process (referenced by Sam Osborne): https://drdemartini.com
Guided meditation resources (Spotify – 20-minute spoken word meditations)
Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend (mentioned by Angela Gill Nelms)
The Bhagavad Gita (classic Hindu text, referenced by Sam Osborne)
Make Work, Not Suck (hosted by Daniel Steere, mentioned by Angela)

Themes:
Manager vs Leader
Imposter Syndrome
Self-Worth & Emotional Intelligence
Conflict Resolution & Difficult Conversations
Leadership Identity
Values-Driven Leadership
Burnout & Stress Regulation
Authenticity in Leadership
Personal Growth for High Performers

Keywords: manager vs leader, leadership vs management, imposter syndrome, self-worth, self-worth sam, sam osborne, david graf coach, leadership podcast, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, burnout recovery, values-based leadership, authentic leadership, overthinking leaders, nervous system regulation, meditation for leaders, workplace conflict, personal growth, executive presence, angela gill nelms podcast

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com  @AngelaGillNelms  

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

#Leadership
#ManagerVsLeader
#ImposterSyndrome
#SelfWorth
#BadassLeadersPodcast
#AuthenticLeadership
#ConflictResolution
#EmotionalIntelligence
#BurnoutRecovery
#ValuesBasedLeadership
#MindsetShift
#ExecutivePresence
#PersonalGrowth

If you’ve ever wished leaders would stop acting like robots and start acting like humans, this episode is your new masterclass.

Leadership advisor, entrepreneur, and board director Jonathan Bennett joins Angela to unpack the real skills great leaders rely on: conflict resolution, culture-building, deep listening, emotional intelligence, and how to actually show up as a human in the room — even when things get messy.

You’ll learn the tools Jonathan uses with executives around the world, including:
• How to handle difficult conversations without freezing, shutting down, or blowing things up
• Why “what have you already tried?” is the most powerful leadership question you’re not asking
• How emotional triggers, somatic reactions, and old patterns shape how we lead
• Why good governance is relational — not just procedural
• How to run better meetings, build trust, and create space for real connection
• What young leaders can do right now to build board experience
• Why most conflict isn’t actually about you (and how to use that to your advantage)

Key Questions Answered:
How do great leaders handle conflict without making things worse?
How can you stay curious instead of defensive in hard conversations?
What’s the difference between emotional triggers and actual problems?
How do somatic reactions (freeze/fight/flight) impact leadership?
What does healthy conflict look like in teams and boardrooms?
How can leaders build trust and psychological safety?
How do you develop deep listening skills and avoid hijacking meetings?
What makes a board effective — and what destroys its culture?
How can new leaders get their first board seat?
Why is “what have you already tried?” a game-changing question for managers?

This episode cuts the fluff and gets real about leadership, culture, conflict, courage, and becoming the kind of leader people actually want to follow.

Key Themes:
Human-centered leadership
Conflict resolution and communication
Deep listening skills
Emotional intelligence for executives
Somatic responses and self-awareness
Trust, culture, and psychological safety
Governance and relational board leadership
Coaching, advising & navigating hard situations
Decision-making and meeting effectiveness
Leadership development and self-growth

Learn More About Jonathan:
Podcast: https://clearlythen.com/listen
Website: clearlythen.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/

Mentioned in this Episode: 
A League of Their Own (film) – quote “It’s supposed to be hard. If it were easy, everyone would do it.”
Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast – popular business quote 
AI note-taking tools: Fathom (Angela’s mention): https://www.fathom.ai/ 
AI note-taking tools: Granola (Jonathan’s mention): https://www.granola.ai/ 
Angela’s blog about hobbies: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/why-doing-many-things-at-once-might-be-the-smartest-move-you-ever-make/ 

Keywords:
leadership skills
conflict resolution for leaders
emotional intelligence at work
how to handle difficult conversations
leadership communication
deep listening skills
culture and leadership
leadership coaching
executive coaching tools
how to lead meetings
leadership psychology
building trust at work
board governance
relational governance
leadership advice
leadership vs management
psychological safety
leadership development tools
becoming a better leader
how to show up authentically
conflict management strategies
#Leadership #ExecutiveCoaching #ConflictResolution #CultureMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #BoardGovernance #HumanCenteredLeadership #BadassLeadersPodcast #AngelaGillNelms #JonathanBennett

Social Media Channels:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass/podcasts
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73Dg8OQ7SqtGtSiCWQUfLB?si=c17c0f1abe29446f
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/badass-leaders-podcast-brave-hearts-brave-conversations/id1788987881
Audible: https://www.audible.com/podcast/Badass-Leaders-Podcast-Brave-Hearts-Brave-Conversations-Badass-Leaders/B0DS2CQL9V?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected]. 

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.