BE Yourself

What does it really mean to tell powerful stories for business?

In this episode of the Be Yourself Podcast, I sit down with Neal Foard to explore how human storytelling transforms leadership communication, brand storytelling, and persuasive storytelling in business.

We break down why business storytelling is not about bullet points or features, how we can drive influence through story, why authenticity builds trust, and how storytelling techniques can help leaders communicate without sounding slick or rehearsed.

This conversation is a masterclass for founders, executives, and creators who want stronger business communication skills while staying authentic.

If you’re building a brand, leading a team, or presenting ideas, this episode is for you.

I want to thank Neal for his generosity, clarity and the way he made complex ideas feel human.

🎙 Subscribe to the Be Yourself Podcast for more conversations on authentic leadership, influence and becoming better people overall.



0:00 - Episode Teaser & Intro
01:34 - Why Stories are Underrated in Business
03:55 - Persuasion Superpower
07:24 - Dating Vs. Business Negotiations
08:52 - Emotions in Decision Making
12:50 - Storytelling is Emotional
14:43 - Neal's Story on Leaders in his Life
18:51 - Summary of a Story isn't a Story
20:35 - Ferrari Vs. Toyota Corolla
21:57 - Why We Deal with Dogs
24:03 - Don't Make Yourself a Hero
26:55 - A Wedding Toast Scenario
32:00 - Why Neal's Content Feels so Disarming
36:15 - Human Desire to Be Friends
38:35 - Choosing Words Right
42:41 - Poetry: Noticing the Magic
44:00 - Authenticity Matters
49:24 - Best Advertising Practices
53:30 - Special Present from Neal


Neal's Resources ~

Personal Website: https://www.nealfoard.com/
Storytelling Course: https://www.storyfire.net/
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@nealfoard
Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nealfoard
IG: https://www.instagram.com/nealfoard/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-foard/



If you'd like to invite me to host an event, give a public speech, or are interested in an interview, feel free to drop a line: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergey-leshchenko-81371198/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serhiybeverly
Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@serhiybeverly

Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

What does it really mean to be yourself in a world obsessed with labels, trends, and performance metrics?

In this episode of the Be Yourself Podcast, I sit down with Mark Pollard for a deep dive into authenticity, brand strategy, and the real meaning behind what is strategy and what is branding. We explore why so many people experience a quiet personality crisis, how childhood adversity can shape powerful personality traits, and why living with urgency might be the antidote to mediocrity.

Drawing from Viktor Frankl and Man’s Search for Meaning, Mark shares transformative questions to ask yourself and the importance of identifying the verbs that inspire action in your life. We also discuss his travel YouTube channel, why travel matters for growth, and how serving others fuels real self-improvement.

If you’re building your personal brand, searching for clarity, or simply trying to understand how to, ask Mark puts it, lead a life that turns you on — this conversation is a MUST SEE.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on motivation, strategy, and becoming fully yourself.



0:00 - Episode Teaser & Intro
01:52 - Challenges in Marketing Today
03:09 - What is a Strategy and a Brand
04:52 - Personality Crisis in Men
07:04 - The Benefits of a Tough Environment
11:39 - Alex Honnald's Taipei 101
13:23 - How Mark Found His Professional Calling
16:38 - Is Passion Overrated?
18:05 - Living Life with Urgency
19:45 - Independence Comes After Affiliation
24:00 - Simple but Distinct Words
26:25 - Disconnecting from the Brand You Created
28:04 - What Mark Wants People to Associate Himself With
28:40 - Travel YouTube Channel
30:37 - Why Travelling?
32:33 - Questions We Should Ask Ourselves
35:15 - Verbs That Make Us Happy
37:07 - Tony Robbins' Main Life Lesson
38:49 - Sweathead Community for Strategists
41:15 - Take on Dating and Marriage
43:07 - Final Message from Mark


Mark's Resources ~

Book & Community: https://www.markpollard.net/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/markpollard/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markpollardstrategist

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@markpollardstrategyfriend

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If you'd like to invite me to host an event, give a public speech, or are interested in an interview, feel free to drop a line: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergey-leshchenko-81371198/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serhiybeverly
Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@serhiybeverly

Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode of the Be Yourself Podcast, I talk with legendary brand strategist David Brier — bestselling author of Brand Intervention and Rich Brand, Poor Brand, and the man behind $9B in created brand value. 🎙📘

We explore why brands lose their voice, how underdogs beat industry “Goliaths,” and why the strongest companies are crystal clear about what they stand for, and what they refuse to accept. ⚡️

David also shares his take on AI vs. human creativity, the overlooked power of post-sale branding, how personal stories shape unforgettable brands, and why decisiveness could be the defining skill of 2026. 🚀

🎧 Subscribe for honest conversations about creativity, personal brand, and building meaningful work without playing small.

00:00 – Intro
00:41 – Who is David Brier & his background
01:08 – Why brands lose their voice
03:36 – What “Goliaths” are and how underdogs can win
08:27 – How to differentiate in a crowded market
15:59 – Standing for something and naming the villain
18:03 – How David found his voice
21:42 – Why people hold themselves back
23:55 – Can crisis be an advantage?
29:24 – Does AI make human connection more valuable?
30:58 – If you don’t define your story, the market will
33:47 – Being great at many things vs one thing
37:01 – Breaking free from labels
39:02 – Can we create our own luck?
40:46 – David’s outlook on 2026
48:06 – Decisiveness vs indecision
49:01 – Final thoughts

David's Resources:

Brand Intervention:
https://www.amazon.com/Brand-Intervention-Steps-Transform-Have/dp/0999529706

Rich Brand Poor Brand:
https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Brand-Poor-Unleash-Goliaths/dp/0999529749

Website:
https://davidbrier.com

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/Risingabovethenoise
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If you'd like to invite me to host an event, give a public speech, or are interested in an interview, feel free to drop a line: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergey-leshchenko-81371198/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serhiybeverly
Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@serhiybeverly

Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode of Be Yourself Podcast, I sit down with Anneli Hansen to break down how she launched a six-figure course with The Futur and built global authority as a brand strategist and educator. Anneli shares what really happened behind the scenes of creating a best-selling course, the fear of teaching in a second language, and how she turned years of brand strategy experience into a scalable, impactful offer 💡

Anneli's Resources:

TEDx Speech:    • Can brands be a force for good? | Anneli H...  

IG:  https://www.instagram.com/theannelihansson/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theannelihansson/

Website: https://www.annelihansson.com/


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If you'd like to invite me to host an event, give a public speech, or are interested in an interview, feel free to drop a line: [email protected]

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergey-leshchenko-81371198/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serhiybeverly/


Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode of The Be Yourself Podcast, I talk with Emi Beredugo, a UK-based talent acquisition specialist whose career journey spans continents and industries. Emi’s path—from a science background to becoming a recruiter—shows how core skills can transcend fields and open unexpected doors.We dive into how Emi transitioned into recruitment, the steps she took to live and work abroad, and how she found ways to travel while making money. Emi shares insights on what makes a great recruiter, how to choose the right clients, and how headhunting really works behind the scenes.We also explore why so many people feel the urge to settle down, how detachment and boundaries are crucial in leadership, and why networking is one of the most powerful tools in both life and business. Emi closes with actionable tips on finding fulfillment and loving what you do—even through major career switches.If you're considering a career change, interested in recruitment, or just looking for fresh inspiration, this episode is for you.
00:00 - In this Episode1:36 - Who's Emi Beredugo?3:30 - How Emi Wined up Living in the UK and What Proceded this5:22 - What Emi Did to Allow to Travel and Make Money6:49 - Emi's Journey to Becoming a Recruiter10:37 - How Emi Switched from Science 18:23 - Why People Want to Settle Down26:43 - The Power of Core Skills Across Careers31:19 - What Makes a Great Recruiter34:57 - The Go-to Story About Headhunting38:33 - Do We Ever Get to Choose Our Clients?44:43 - Detachment and Boundaries in Business Leadership48:03 - Does Emi Ever Hold Grudges?50:50 - Importance of Network in Life and Business58:09 - Emi's Tips for Finding Fulfillment and Loving What You DoIf you'd like to invite me to host an event in English, give a public speech, or interview your special guests, feel free to drop a line: [email protected] and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode of Be Yourself podcast, I’m joined by Eugene Kashuk — the CEO and Founder of Brighterly, a fast-growing K-12 tutoring startup — for a powerful conversation on how to fix the broken education system in the US. We explore how Brighterly infuses startup energy into learning, making math fun and engaging for kids, while building a mission-driven edtech company from the ground up.Eugene shares hard-won insights on choosing the right business niche, navigating the U.S. market as a Ukrainian founder, and capturing the attention of venture capitalists. We also reflect on leadership lessons from visionaries like Brian Chesky and Elon Musk.Proud to spotlight inspiring Ukrainian businesses 🇺🇦. Like 👍 and subscribe 🔔 to support me on the mission!00:00 - Episode Teaser 00:34 - Brigtherly Intro 02:35 - The Importance of a Startup Culture04:26 - Number of Active Students05:35 - How Do You Make Math Lessons Fun07:06 - Market Overview09:48 - Not Eugene's First Rodeo 10:45 - How To Choose a Business Niche13:38 - The Challenges of Doing Business with the US15:10 - Helping Rather than Selling17:18 - Who are Brighterly's Tutors & How They Teach22:11 - Successful Investment in Ukrainian Startups26:15 - How Did Eugene Find His Unique Calling31:09 - How Brighterly Builds The Team35:12 - The Uniqueness of Generation Z38:12 - The Power of the "Founder Mode"42:45 - The Blessing of Having a Great Team44:20 - The Future for Brighterly 48:28 - How to Be Appealing to Global Venture Funds53:05 - Entrepreneurship as Freedom57:55 - Can Money Buy Happiness?Eugene's Resources ~ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-kashuk/Brighterly: https://brighterly.com/Brighterly's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brighterly/ Press ~Interview for Fast Company: https://www.fastcompany.com/91261520/brighterly-ceo-eugene-kashuk-ai-role-in-education?Interview for Tech.eu: https://tech.eu/2024/09/27/how-brighterly-is-addressing-the-us-math-education-crisis/-----------If you are a Ukrainian entrepreneur who would like to be the guest on my show, don't hesitate to reach out: [email protected] Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode of Be Yourself Podcast, we dive into the journey of JobPixel, a startup that's redefining and reinventing hiring by leveraging video technology. Omar Khateeb, JobPixel's Founder and CEO, shares the secrets behind the company's growing success, including its unorthodox pivot, the power network and the simplicity with which functional products win hearts.We also discuss the entrepreneurial lessons Omar learned while scaling JobPixel, the benefits of healthy competition and hiring rules needed to assemble a dream team. Learn about one of the most compelling entrepreneurial lessons on the Be Yourself Podcast & as usual - like & subscribe if you want to support the channel! ☺️🙌🔥00:00 - Episode Teaser 00:50 - Omar's Intro 01:28 - Key to JobPixel's Success03:27 - How the Idea of JobPixel was Born07:01 - JobPixel Unorthodox Pivot 08:30 - Entrepreneurial Seeds11:14 - Strong Partnership & Pivotal Points13:45 - Finding Product-Market Fit17:20 - JobPixel's ICP18:50 - The Effect of COVID on the Business23:08 - JobPixel in Action 24:05 - Why the Product Should be Simple 25:16 - The Power of Video in Customer Success28:30 - Lessons Omar Learned on Scaling31:11 - Omar on Competition33:34 - What Made JoxPixel Product Stand Out35:09 - How to Build Social Capital40:53 - What Omar Has Learned from his Mentors43:37 - What's Next in Store for JobPixel?44:12 - Hiring Advice from Omar46:12 - Running a Business with a Friend?47:05 - How Can we Create our Own Life?Omar's Resources ~ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar5ateeb/JobPixel: https://www.jobpixel.com/-----------If you'd like to invite me to host an event in English, give a public speech, or interview your special guests, feel free to drop a line: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/serhiybeverlyTik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@serhiybeverlyPodcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production

In this episode, I chat with John Golden—sales pro, podcast host, and author—about what it really takes to succeed in sales. We’re talking AI, consistency, and the big moments that shape a career. Plus, why your podcast should never be a performance.

Hit like, subscribe, and let’s dive in!

00:00 - In this Episode

2:29 - How John Golden Got the Job He Loves

13:00 - John's First Introduction to the World of Sales

21:08 - Pipeliner CRM & Aid-Driven Sales Technology

32:00 - Jobs in Sales That Will Become Obsolete

36:52 - Sales POP! Podcast

40:22 - The Moment John's Brand Began Reshaping

44:18 - The Power of Consistency

47:23 - Podcast as a Vehicle for Business Building

49:33 - Don't Create a Podcast Persona

52:10 - The Journey of Writing Two Books

58:57 - What's More Important: The Path or the Destination?

John's Resources ~John's LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngolden/Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYd51t-LOechvpsE35Zu91Q

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Want to be a Guest on the Show (Ukr or Eng)?

Contact me by email: [email protected]

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

Podcast and Shorts Production: https://beverlyen.com/production