In this compelling episode of The Break Free Podcast, host David Mancilla engages in a deep conversation with John Stix, a transformational leader, entrepreneur, and author of the inspiring book Discover Your Who. John shares his journey of breaking free from the self-imposed prison of success, rediscovering his identity, and aligning his life with true purpose. Packed with wisdom, actionable insights, and heartfelt revelations, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking personal growth, spiritual clarity, or a path to authentic abundance.

Here’s more about John Stix:

“For over 21 years, I have been a co-founder and leader at Fibernetics, a multi-million-dollar telecommunications company with multiple entities. I am currently the Chief of Staff, responsible for guiding our internal culture, driven by my motivation to lead from a place of care, compassion, and empowerment. I leverage my skills in leadership, public speaking, and motivational speaking to inspire and influence our team, our customers, and our partners.

As a culture transformation expert, I have created and introduced the “I’m In” mantra and values into Fibernetics, which has resulted in increased innovation, creativity, productivity, and growth. I have also shared my expertise and insights on positive workplace culture, identity branding, innovation and authentic leadership at global events, publications, and podcasts, including a White House initiative and a meeting with Pope Francis. I am passionate about helping other leaders and organizations establish and sustain cultures that empower others and achieve excellence.”

Company description: Fibernetics provides voice and data telecommunication solutions that power our customers’ full potential for success. This strategy is based upon delivering advanced world-class technologies in combination with personalized professional service and support solutions so that our customers can reach their optimal productivity. https://www.fibernetics.ca/

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In this inspiring episode of the Break Free Podcast, host David Manella welcomes a beloved guest, David Cooks, back for a powerful conversation. A man of unwavering faith, resilience, and profound purpose, David Cooks shares the extraordinary trials he has endured and the profound lessons he’s learned. From living over 40 years in a wheelchair to overcoming a cascade of recent health challenges, David’s testimony is a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to break free from their limitations and live a life of abundance. Tune in to discover how faith, gratitude, and purpose can transform even the darkest valleys into victories.

Here’s more about David Cooks:

"David's journey from the playgrounds of Milwaukee to Cameron Indoor stadium and beyond, is captivating and provides a framework to find a new perspective and to build a life filled with passion and purpose. GETTING UNDRESSED is inspiring and proof that you can win in life, regardless of the circumstances." - Mike Krzyzewski, Head Coach, Men's Basketball, Duke University

I am David Cooks, a Keynote Speaker, Author, Business Coach and former Basketball Coach. I am a T-6 paraplegic and a wheelchair user.

Life didn't stop for me after losing my ability to walk at age 15...it was just beginning. The beginning of many life lessons and principles on Leadership, Teamwork and Perserverance, that can be shared with organizations and individuals alike. "Getting Undressed-From Paralysis to Purpose" is a byproduct of that journey.

I am convinced that nothing, including paralysis, can stop anyone from succeeding in life and most importantly, in making a positive difference in the lives of others."

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In today’s episode of the Break Free Podcast, David Mansilla interviews Ron Alvesteffer, CEO of Service Express. Over 27 years, Ron has grown his company from a $3 million business with four locations to a $350 million enterprise with over 53 locations across the U.S. and Europe. Ron’s journey is one of dedication, servant leadership, and unwavering faith. He shares invaluable insights on building a thriving business while fostering a culture of growth and empowerment.

Here’s more about Ron Alvesteffer:

During Ron’s 25+ years of ongoing leadership at Service Express, he’s expanded the company's international footprint through nine acquisitions and turned a US team of 15 into a global team of over 1,000. Ron has helped grow the company's revenue from $3 million to $300 million and is on track to achieve its goal of $500 million in 2025. Through the company’s astonishing growth, Ron has remained committed to his people and has created a unique, performance-driven culture.

Service Express is a leader in global data center and infrastructure solutions, dedicated to delivering the best-in-class experiences for customers worldwide. This shared goal has helped create opportunities for employee achievement. Service Express’ people-powered philosophy is dedicated to empowering its people to achieve their personal, professional and financial goals, which Ron attributes to outstanding individual and company success.

As the chief advocate for Service Express' culture, Ron was voted one of Comparably’s Best CEOs in 2021 based on employee ratings. His dedication to his people has guided the company’s award-winning culture, earning Service Express several awards, including:

-Best & Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation (14 years)

-Inc.'s 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Companies (14 years)

-Great Place to Work Certified (6 years)

Ron is a member of the Young Presidents' Organization and World 50, a private community for CEOs and C-level executives at globally respected organizations to discover better ideas, share valuable experiences and build relationships that make a lasting impact.

Company description: Service Express is an industry-leading data center solutions provider specializing in multivendor maintenance, hybrid cloud and managed infrastructure services.

In this episode of Break Free, David Mansilla speaks with Omar Mendoza, the Global CEO of HDI Global—a division of Talanx Group specializing in property and casualty insurance for businesses. Omar shares his incredible journey from a mechanical engineer to leading one of the most complex and impactful divisions in the insurance industry. Through his story, Omar emphasizes the importance of continual learning, servant leadership, and maintaining balance in life.

Here’s more about Omar Mendoza:

International executive with more than 25 years of solid experience in different Insurance Industry positions and countries. Strong managerial background with senior level local / international. Proven experience in Underwriting, Marketing, Reinsurance, Worldwide Programs design and implementation, strategy, product launching, sales, brokers / agents networking, process and administration. Experience and capacity on creation and training of multicultural high performance teams. Mentally focused on revenue, profits, and team work.

Company description: Companies from the trading, manufacturing and service industries need an insurance partner they can rely on. HDI has been one of the leading insurers, offering a broad and needs-based range of insurance solutions and accompanying services for more than ten decades.

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, achieving personal and professional success requires more than just technical know-how. It demands adaptability, cultural awareness, and a clear sense of purpose. Drawing on over four decades of experience in public accounting and international leadership, this guide unpacks timeless lessons on creating a fulfilling career, fostering family bonds, and navigating the challenges of modern business. Let’s dive into actionable insights that can transform your approach to work, life, and leadership.

Here’s more about Jim Brady:

• Former Chief Operating Officer for Grant Thornton
• Former U.S. Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy Group for Deloitte
• Former Chief Executive Officer for U.S. India Audit & Advisory Joint Venture at Deloitte & Touche
• Former Chief Talent Officer for Deloitte & Touche
• 
  

With 38 years of experience as a global and domestic professional leader, Jim Brady is an accomplished C-Suite executive who most recently served as the COO at Grant Thornton LLP in the United States.

During his lengthy career, Brady has established a proven track record for his ability to grasp challenging business situations and deliver breakout P&L results. In his various executive capacities, he has created and translated business strategies into high-growth and high profit business units by quickly assessing the turnaround operating levers, developing and implementing remedial action plans, and executing with a sense of urgency.

Company description: AlliantTalent has put together a team of experts to address the most pressing needs of the modern CPA firm. We source the best talent to ensure your firm reduces its costs but not it's quality.

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In this episode of the Break Free Podcast, we explored the compelling journey of a seasoned leader who has dedicated over three decades to one organization, navigating the complexities of healthcare, leadership, and community-building. This story underscores the importance of faith, perseverance, and servant leadership, offering valuable lessons for professionals across industries. Through candid reflections, we gain insights into creating meaningful connections and excelling in roles by embracing values-driven leadership.

Here’s more about David Schreiner:

I want to help you connect in a more meaningful way to the people that matter the most.

I am a mission-driven thought leader interested in executive engagement. My first book, "Be The Best Part of Their Day" will be published on January 16, 2024. My 2022 dissertation, titled "What CEO Practices Help Rural Hospitals Engage Constituents in Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous Times?" has been presented to leadership groups from all industries across the United States as well as in Canada and Ireland.

I have 30+ years of healthcare experience and have served on national boards with a particular emphasis on strengthening rural hospitals. I have been the President and CEO of Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital in Dixon, IL, since 2011.

Specialties: Team Building, Engagement, Communication, Strategic Planning, Leadership

Company description: We are an 80-bed acute care community hospital. The mission of Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital is to restore, maintain and enhance health by providing superior care now and in the future.

Welcome to another episode of the Breakfree Podcast! This week, we had the privilege of hosting Manish, an experienced leader in e-commerce, technology, and AI consulting. With almost a decade of leading Peak Activity, Manish shared insights on building businesses, navigating challenges, and balancing the complexities of leadership with personal growth. Whether you’re an aspiring tech leader or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with lessons that resonate with all.

Manish’s journey—from working in Fortune 500 companies to founding successful ventures—is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and servant leadership. Let’s delve into the highlights of his story and the actionable insights he shared for leaders in the tech industry.

Today, we're shifting focus from the usual gloomy news to the inspiring stories that often go unnoticed. Our guest, Esmerelda Lee, isn’t just transforming lives; she’s helping people live their best lives at a time when society often forgets them. Leading a senior living company that spans 19 states, Esmerelda is redefining what it means to grow older, ensuring her residents find joy, community, and purpose every single day. From engaging in hobbies to giving back to society, her approach is nothing short of revolutionary.

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 In this episode of "The Break Free Podcast," David Mansilla interviews Matthew Woods, CEO of Apartment List, about his journey and the vision behind his business. They discuss how Apartment List is revolutionizing the rental industry, the challenges of transitioning from clean tech to tech-driven real estate, and the importance of fostering a compassionate, mission-driven culture. In this blog, we’ll highlight key takeaways from Matthew’s insights on leadership, innovation, and staying true to one's values.

Here’s more about Matthew Woods:

Matthew Woods is CEO of Apartment List, the fastest-growing rental marketplace in the U.S., with a vision to deliver every renter a home they love. Matthew believes renting should be a personalized experience and is leading Apartment List with transparency and innovation.

Company description: Apartment List is a smart, simple and seamless renting platform that’s dedicated to making the process fair and transparent for all.

In the world of business, success isn't always linear. Every entrepreneur faces obstacles and unexpected turns along the way. In this insightful discussion, we explore a journey filled with risks, rewards, and lessons that reveal the power of persistence and resilience. From navigating unexpected industry shifts to embracing failure as a stepping stone, this episode delivers a masterclass in overcoming adversity. Here are the key takeaways from an inspiring conversation with a seasoned entrepreneur who built successful companies by embracing challenges and staying the course.

Here more about Craig Taylor:

I’ve launched and grown eight businesses in the energy services sector under Iapetus Holdings, solving the most urgent needs around energy sustainability, efficiency, reliability, and safety:

Atlas Commodities

Atlas Retail Energy

Atlas Field Services

Gold Coast Utility Specialists

Hyperion Safety Environmental Solutions

Iapetus Infrastructure Services

Soaring Eagle Technologies

Unmanned Aviation Training Institute (UATI).

I also cofounded Atlas Scholars, a nonprofit to provide high-performing students in Houston with mentorship, scholarships and exposure to the energy and finance industry in a performance-based environment.

I work each day to bring new opportunities to our 400+ employees across the U.S.

I am passionate about investing and helping the growth of early-stage startups through our investment mechanism, Iapetus Holdings LLC.

Company Description:

In the world of business, success isn't always linear. Every entrepreneur faces obstacles and unexpected turns along the way. In this insightful discussion, we explore a journey filled with risks, rewards, and lessons that reveal the power of persistence and resilience. From navigating unexpected industry shifts to embracing failure as a stepping stone, this episode delivers a masterclass in overcoming adversity. Here are the key takeaways from an inspiring conversation with a seasoned entrepreneur who built successful companies by embracing challenges and staying the course.

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