Breakfast Leadership Show

By Michael D. LevittBusiness Entrepreneurship News Business News

Breakfast Leadership Show episodes

November 01, 2024 Rugare Gomo on Personal Growth, Inclusivity, and Unity
Rugare Gomo’s mission is to inspire and empower all people to dream, forge their paths, and be leaders in their own lives. He is a high-performance life and business coach, author, and speaker.

One of Rugare’s superpowers is making things happen. At 16 years old, he arrived in Australia with about $300, a suitcase, and a backpack.
He graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts (Honours). He practiced in a top-tier law firm, joined a start-up, and negotiated cross-border, multi-million-dollar contracts as General Counsel.
Rugare is also the Founder of the Gomo Foundation, which provides scholarships for girls to go to school in rural Zimbabwe, and he has run his corporate law firm.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rugaregomo
Website: https://RugareGomo.com

Rugare's Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
Rugare shared his journey of self-discovery and growth, starting from his early age of moving to Australia with limited resources. He discussed how this experience helped him overcome his initial shyness and self-doubt, leading to increased self-confidence and self-love. Rugare also highlighted his ability to raise capital for his university education and his decision to be his authentic self as a gay man, despite the potential risks. Michael acknowledged Rugare's journey as foundational and praised his ability to take risks and adapt to new environments. Both Rugare and Michael emphasized the importance of embracing challenges and living in the unknown to achieve personal growth.
Creating Inclusive Environments Through Acceptance
Rugare shared a personal story about having an open conversation with his uncle, who is the head of a village in Zimbabwe, about gay rights. The uncle's acceptance and welcoming attitude towards his partner and other members of the gay community could potentially create a more inclusive environment in the village. Michael agreed with Rugare's perspective, emphasizing the importance of psychological safety and acceptance in communities and organizations. Both Rugare and Michael expressed their hope for a world where people can be themselves without fear of judgment or condemnation.
Fostering Unity and Understanding Conversations
Michael and Rugare discussed the importance of creating an environment where people feel heard and welcomed, regardless of their differences. They emphasized the need to understand others' perspectives, rather than demonizing them. Rugare shared a personal experience of a friend who supports Trump, and how she plans to have a conversation with him to understand his viewpoint, rather than trying to change his mind. They both agreed that living their lives in a way that promotes unity and understanding can have a more significant impact than trying to convince others.
Curiosity and Research in Voting
Michael and Rugare discussed the importance of curiosity and research in making decisions, particularly in the context of voting. Michael emphasized the need to understand the reasons behind one's support for a particular party or candidate, rather than simply following family traditions or party affiliations. He suggested doing one's own research on the issues that matter to them and comparing the positions of different candidates or parties. Rugare agreed with Michael's approach, highlighting the need for open conversations and understanding rather than polarizing attitudes. They also touched on the potential of technology to provide access to information and resources, which could lead to the tapping of untapped talent pools.
Leadership, Unity, and Personal Growth
In the meeting, Rugare and Michael discussed the importance of leadership and unity, emphasizing the need for understanding and empathy in personal and professional relationships. Rugare shared his personal journey of self-discovery and growth, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and learning from past mistakes. They also discussed the need for psychological safety and the importance of not demonizing others, but rather seeking to understand their perspectives. The conversation concluded with Rugare sharing his website and social media handles for further connection.
Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
28 min
October 31, 2024 How To Build A Legacy To Die For: A conversation with Dr. Kimberly Harms
Dr. Kimberly Harms has been around the block in life. She has served as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Public Health Service, a dental school professor, a grief counselor, a death doula, a civil mediator, a clinical dentist with her late husband Jim in Farmington MN, a school board Chair, President of an international women’s organization, the first woman President of the Minnesota Dental Association, a National Spokesperson for the American Dental Association (21 years), an award-winning, best selling author and international speaker on the topics of grief, conflict and legacy planning.
She has also suffered many personal losses, including the deaths by suicide of her mother and son and the death by a broken heart of her husband after their son’s death.
Her most important role now is mother to her two surviving children and grandmother to 6 precious grandchildren.
Book link: https://amzn.to/3XR3JCQ
website: drkimberlyharms.com

Authors URL: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562687683460
Kimberly's Career and Life Purpose
In the meeting, Kimberly and Michael discussed Kimberly's background, including her career as a commissioned officer in the United States Public Health Service, her role as the first woman President of the Minnesota Dental Association, and her work as a national spokesperson for the American Dental Association. Kimberly also shared her transition from practicing dentistry to international speaking and writing books. The conversation then shifted to Kimberly's current focus on her life's purpose and her book, "Are you ready how to build a legacy to die for?" The conversation ended with Michael expressing his appreciation for the conversation and looking forward to further discussions.
Planning for the Future Amid Loss
Michael and Kimberly shared their personal experiences with loss, emphasizing the importance of planning for the future to ease the burden on loved ones. Michael discussed his mother's well-organized estate and how it provided a sense of peace during a difficult time. He encouraged others to do the same, setting up wills or trusts to ensure a smooth transition. Kimberly shared her own tragic losses, including the suicide of her mother and son, and how these experiences taught her about the impact of grief on others. She highlighted the importance of not letting grief consume one's life and the need to focus on the living. Both speakers underscored the significance of planning and communication in dealing with loss.
Overcoming Grief and Resilience in Leadership
Kimberly shared her personal experience of overcoming grief and finding happiness again, emphasizing the importance of fighting through difficult times. Michael agreed, highlighting the role of leaders in setting an example for resilience and the potential impact of unresolved grief on both individuals and their followers. They also discussed the potential link between mental health and physical health, with Kimberly sharing her own experience of being treated for depression after her son's death. The conversation concluded with a mutual understanding of the importance of seeking help and support during challenging times.
Addressing Unprocessed Grief and Depression
Kimberly shared her personal experience of losing her son and her husband, both of whom had struggled with untreated grief. She believes that the lack of support and recognition for grief can lead to serious health issues and even death. Michael agreed, adding that unprocessed grief can negatively impact a leader's performance and clarity. He also shared his own experience of being diagnosed with clinical depression and seeking help, emphasizing the importance of working through one's emotions for personal growth and well-being.
Leading Through Grief in Dental Orgs
Kimberly emphasized the importance of leading through grief in the workplace, particularly in dental organizations. She suggested having a morning huddle to acknowledge and support team members who are grieving, and proposed the use of a "crying room" for those who need a moment to collect themselves. She stressed the value of a supportive team environment and the need for leaders to help their team members navigate through difficult times.
Team Bonding and Personal Support
Kimberly and Michael discussed the importance of team bonding and addressing personal issues within a team. Kimberly emphasized the benefits of strong personal relationships in the workplace, leading to a happier environment. Michael shared his experience from working in healthcare, where they had morning huddles to prepare for patients with specific needs. He agreed with Kimberly's approach and suggested that such practices could help team members feel supported and less stressed. They both agreed that this approach could improve team dynamics and retention.
Building Trust and Emotional Safety
Michael and Kimberly discussed the importance of building relationships and trust within an organization. They emphasized the need for leaders to create an emotionally safe environment where employees feel valued and supported. They also highlighted the significance of addressing emotional issues and conflicts to foster loyalty among customers and team members, ultimately leading to increased production. Michael stressed the importance of trust, noting that it can take years to build but can be lost in seconds. Kimberly agreed, emphasizing the need for leaders to prioritize emotional well-being and trust-building within their teams.
Creating a Supportive Workplace Atmosphere
Michael emphasized the importance of being present and giving one's best at work, even on difficult days. He suggested that admitting when one is not feeling well can create a psychologically safe environment and foster a sense of teamwork. Kimberly agreed, highlighting the significance of creating a supportive team atmosphere. Both agreed that a happy workplace is one where individuals feel valued and cared for.
Kimberly's Book and Website Discussion
Michael and Kimberly discussed Kimberly's work and her book, "Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For".
Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
23 min
October 30, 2024 How Jim Rohn's Influence Shaped Brad Sugars' Success in Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Meet Brad Sugars.
Professionally, nobody has significantly impacted Brad Sugars‘ life more than Jim Rohn. As a teen, Brad scrimped and saved his allowance to afford tickets to a Rohn seminar, and despite being the youngest person in the audience, what he learned there has informed his business practices and philosophies throughout his life.

Now internationally known as one of the most influential entrepreneurs, Brad Sugars is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the #1 business coach in the world. Throughout his 30-year career as an entrepreneur, Brad has become the CEO of 9+ companies and owns the multi-million dollar franchise ActionCOACH®.

As a husband and father of five, Brad is equally passionate about his family as he is about business. That’s why he strongly advocates for building a company that works without you so you can spend more time doing what matters to you.
https://bradsugars.com/about/

Teaching and Learning in Fast Pace
Michael and Brad discussed the challenges of learning and teaching in today's fast-paced world. Brad, a father of five and chairman of nine companies, shared his experience building great business people through teaching, coaching, and mentoring. He emphasized the importance of breaking learning down into smaller snippets, as seen in their 12-week learning programs. Brad also highlighted the effectiveness of their approach, as evidenced by the growth in conversion rates and productivity among salespeople and managers. He noted the positive impact of their leadership training, which has seen an average increase in passion scores from 3 to 6 among participants.
Setting Realistic Goals and Investing
Brad and Michael discussed the importance of setting realistic goals and investing in personal growth. They emphasized that learning and understanding the necessary skills take time and should not be rushed. Brad shared his personal experience of setting a goal to retire at age 25 and how he had to learn and grow over time to achieve it. They also discussed the importance of investing in people and providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities to succeed. Michael shared his experience of turning around a healthcare organization by investing in his team and giving them a voice, which led to significant improvements in performance and reduced turnover.
Investing in People for Success
Michael and Brad discussed the importance of investing in people to achieve success. Michael emphasized the need for organizations to understand what they need to do differently to reach their goals rather than just working harder. He used the analogy of a cook becoming a chef to illustrate the need for learning new skills and techniques. Brad agreed with Michael's points. The conversation also touched on a story about Jim Rohn, who, at 25, was broke and sought advice from his mentor. The mentor asked Jim to list all the reasons for his failure, and upon reviewing the list, the mentor pointed out that Jim's name was missing.
Self-Accountability and Management in Growth
Michael and Brad discussed the importance of self-accountability and management in personal and professional growth. Brad emphasized that self-accountability is rare, and most people need some form of management to hold them accountable. He suggested that daily goals and plans are crucial for achieving annual goals and should be measured and reported. Brad also highlighted the importance of balancing management and leadership in an organization, with the former focusing on competency and productivity and the latter on passion and focus. He stressed balancing the business's nance, admin operations, and marketing teams, i
Balancing Sales, Marketing, and Finance
Brad and Michael discussed balancing sales, marketing, and finance for consistent growth. They highlighted the challenges of getting these parties to communicate effectively but emphasized the benefits of understanding each other's roles and expertise. Michael also stressed the value of investing in employees to foster a culture of insight sharing, which can help identify potential issues and drive growth.
Effective Leadership and Communication
Brad emphasized the importance of communication and leadership in an organization. He suggested that a good leader should be the quietest one in the meeting to draw out ideas from others and be involved in the day-to-day operations to understand the team's needs. He also stressed the significance of documenting the organization's culture, values, and goals and the need for leaders to receive training in core leadership skills. Brad also discussed the shift from head leadership to heart leadership and the importance of investing in future leaders. He concluded by stating that people who take accountability for themselves are the ones who grow into leadership roles.
Building Strong Systems and Culture
Brad and Michael discussed the importance of creating a solid organizational system and culture, using sports teams as examples. They emphasized the role of recruiting, coaching, and continuous improvement in maintaining a competitive edge. Brad highlighted the need for leaders to focus on building people, maintaining culture, and working the numbers. They also touched on the impact of technology on business, with Michael joking about the future of personalized delivery.

Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
25 min
October 29, 2024 How To Excel at on Self-Storage Strategies, Housing Equity, and Community Impact with Matthew Ricciardella
https://www.crystalviewcapital.com/our-team
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-ricciardella-a9156796/
Matthew Ricciardella is a self-made entrepreneur, business executive, investor, and philanthropist. Matthew is the proud Founder and Principal Manager of Crystal View Capital. With over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Mr. Ricciardella is responsible for managing and overseeing all Crystal View Capital Fund aspects, including investment strategy, fundraising, asset management, and operations. He currently manages over $400 Million in real estate assets. Matthew inspires confidence and helps others achieve their full potential with his strong leadership expertise and alignment of interest in all Funds.
With a personal investment of $10M+ in Crystal View Capital Funds I, II, and III, Matthew has created a powerful personal bond with his stakeholders. Under Mr. Ricciardella’s leadership, Fund I’s investors have realized an average internal rate of return of 47% since its inception. Matthew has earned a reputation for dealing fairly, honestly, and with integrity with his stakeholders and sellers, which he believes is his most valuable asset. In Mr.Ricciardella's free time, He loves spending time with his two sons and loving wife, Jessica, a company co-founder.
Summary
Self-Storage Industry Growth and Strategies
Michael and Matt discussed their respective roles and their companies' strategies. Matt, the founder and CEO of Crystal View Capital, shared that his company focuses on self-storage and manufactured housing communities, raising equity capital to purchase under-managed assets. They aim to maximize efficiency and net operating income, creating value and selling these assets to distribute profits to investors. Michael highlighted the growth of the self-storage industry and the importance of understanding the reasons behind this growth. The conversation was set to delve deeper into these topics.
Affordable Housing Crisis and Storage Demand
Michael and Matt discussed the demand for self-storage and mobile home communities due to the affordable housing crisis. Michael highlighted the need for storage among downsizers and businesses, while Matt emphasized the increasing demand for storage facilities as people downsize to save money. Matt also noted the stigma around mobile home communities has diminished, making them a more attractive option for affordable housing. Both agreed that the lack of new mobile home communities being built and the growing demand for affordable housing presents a significant opportunity for growth and increased pricing power.
Addressing Affordable Housing and NIMBYs
Michael and Matt discussed the issue of affordable housing and its impact on generations. Michael emphasized that the problem has been ignored for decades and has reached a critical point, causing despair among those who fear they will never be able to own a home. He encouraged perseverance and suggested that increasing access to housing could positively impact all levels of housing. Matt agreed with Michael's points. They also touched on the issue of NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard) and their influence on community development, with Michael expressing frustration over the exclusion of affordable housing in specific neighborhoods.
Discussing the Importance of Community
Michael and Matt discussed the concept of community, drawing parallels between a condominium building and a neighborhood. Michael emphasized the importance of community in fostering relationships and mutual support among neighbors. He shared his experience of living in a community where neighbors knew each other well and looked out for one another. Matt agreed with Michael's perspective, highlighting the value of community in both personal and investment contexts. They concluded that community is not just social and physical but also shared and mutu, al cared for.
Pride of Ownership and Home Equity Importance
Matt emphasized the importance of pride of ownership in their work, particularly in helping people afford and build equity in homes. He highlighted the potential for these homes to become their most significant asset and a source of financial growth. Matt also differentiated their approach from apartment complexes, noting that homeowners tend to stay longer and build stronger community ties. Michael agreed with Matt's perspective.
Discussing Performance, Growth, and Marketing Strategy
Michael and Matt discussed the performance of their organization in comparison to their competitors. Matt highlighted their organization's consistent delivery of promises and strong track record of making distributions to partners despite competitors cutting distributions or making capital calls. He emphasized the importance of hard work, execution, and under-promising and over-delivering. Matt also mentioned their organization's growth in occupancies, cost-cutting, and system refinement, leading to increased cash flow at the property level. He concluded by stating that they have made almost a hundred million dollars in distributions to partners over the years. Michael praised Matt's success and suggested an outward-facing marketing campaign, while Matt encouraged interested parties to contact them for more information. Both agreed on the importance of due diligence and making the right investment choices.
Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
26 min
October 28, 2024 How To Transform Your Leadership and Belong: Insights from Cordell Carter, Esq.
Cordell Carter, Esq. Convenor | Leaders, Ideas, and Experiences Cordell Carter, Esq. is a dynamic leader, speaker, and advisor known for his relentless pursuit of a world where everyone belongs and has opportunities to thrive. As the long-term executive director of the Aspen Institute Socrates Program (2017-2024) and founding director of the Project on Belonging, Cordell curates transformative, off-the-record leadership seminars in capital cities across the globe, shaping the perspectives of over 1,500 leaders annually.

Cordell’s passion for creating inclusive spaces led him to establish the Festival of the Diaspora in Medellín, Colombia—a powerful summit (deemed the secular tent revival) uniting diasporic communities across the Americas. As the founder of Expectant Advisory, LLC, he helps leaders and boards navigate their inclusion and belonging journeys with thoughtful strategy and foresight. His leadership journey spans prestigious roles at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, IBM, Seattle Public Schools, and the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. He is a sought-after speaker and facilitator on belonging, inclusion, post-secondary success, and the democratic ideals that hold our society together.
Cordell is also the author of the groundbreaking keynote series, "Becoming an Inclusive Republic," a forthcoming book of the same name, and the producer of the documentary “The Road Trip to Belonging." In recognition of his expertise and leadership, Cordell was appointed by President Biden to the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships and has received numerous accolades, including being named a 2023 Minority Executive Making Moves, a 2021 Champion of Change for Computer Science Education, and a distinguished Eisenhower Fellow to China. Cordell also serves as a Board Director for Concordia, Orbit Capital, Oasis Fresh Markets, Redemption Holdings, and the International Advisory Committee of Danubius University (Galatz, Romania). Finally, he is a limited partner with the Fvlcrum Fund and Mendoza Ventures.
His influence stretches far and wide. He has spoken in 15 countries and 20 U.S. states on topics such as liberal democracy, belonging, and civic faith. Cordell’s leadership extends to corporate boardrooms, advising companies like SkillStorm in their mission to upskill underserved communities. He holds degrees from the University of Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of Washington, and his thought leadership continues to shape the national and global conversation around equity, inclusion, and the future of democracy.
https://CordellCarter.com

Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
23 min
October 25, 2024 How To Navigate Stress During The US Presidential Election
The US Presidential Election is less than 2 weeks away.
It feels like this campaign has been going on for decades.
This episode provides tips on managing your stress during stressful times like these.
Go vote!

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Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

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4 min
October 23, 2024Unlocking Champion Racehorses: Jeffrey Seder's Data-Driven Approach and EQB's Success in Horse Racing
Jeffrey founded Equine Biomechanics & Exercise Physiology (EQB), which helps HNWIs and entrepreneurs looking to enter the horse racing business pick and manage young, unraced thoroughbred horses that may become champions.
Jeffrey has spent millions, including $7M+ of his own money, researching and refining the science of picking a champion racehorse for more than four decades and has grown EQB to be one of the USA's leading talent scout buyers for young unraced thoroughbred horses.

They helped one of their clients go from start-up to the leading USA racing stable in 4 years with a profit! This was even before the client made $50M+ from a racehorse they selected that won several world championships and became the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years. Several other clients have also had world champions.

Jeffrey disrupted the horse racing industry by developing a quantitative approach to finding the best racehorses, much of which has now been widely copied.

His approach pre-dates and is similar to the one depicted in the Brad Pitt movie Moneyball, in which Pitt analyzes baseball players using biometric measurements at rest and while running and the type of equations and statistics to demonstrate their value and project their potential accomplishments. The data includes slow-motion films, organ scans, DNA markers, etc.

On the podcast, Jeffrey discusses:
How exhilarating the racehorse game can be, and the associated lifestyle and personal associations involved.
Racehorse investments compare to traditional investments (real estate, stocks, precious metals, etc).
How to become a thoroughbred owner without breaking the bank, including owning a fractional share of a championship-winning racehorse, what to know before buying a thoroughbred, and how much it costs.
A description of the research methodologies behind finding and separating the good horses from the great ones.
New racehorse selection technologies and the state of the industry’s agents and consultants: the good, the bad, and the ugly.

To get a sense of Jeffrey, here's an episode he did with The Meb Faber Show, where he talked about whether a racehorse's winning metrics are more important than training.
Equine Biometrics and the Triple Crown Challenge
EQB, Jeffrey's company, specialized in equine biometrics, achieved significant milestones, such as being the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years after spending millions on research over 35 years in thoroughbred horse racing and breeding. Jeffrey shared how he became involved in the unpredictable sport after falling in love with a horse on a blind date. Michael drew parallels between winning a Triple Crown and other sports' challenges. Jeffrey attributed his success to using data and scientists.
Jeffrey's Journey From Harvard to Horse Racing Success
Jeffrey shared his journey from being a Harvard student to falling in love with horse racing. He initially studied law and business, but his passion for horse racing led him to research the sport's history and management. Despite facing challenges, he pursued his dream and eventually became successful in the field. He also mentioned his experience at Citibank, where he quit his job to pursue his passion for horse racing.
Innovative Methods and Opportunities in Horse-Raising Industry
Jeffrey expressed frustration with the lack of acceptance of his innovative methods in the horse-raising industry and the prevalence of misinformation. He suggested that small groups could benefit from his expertise and technology, making the industry a lucrative business for those with the right resources. Jeffrey also highlighted the irrationality of the industry as an opportunity. Michael and Jeffrey discussed their experiences as entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and passion, and using examples like a car salesman's spreadsheet database and a fisherman prioritizing family over wealth. They discussed the potential for horse racing to grow, become more accessible, and drive economic stimulation and fan engagement, likening it to high-profile sports events and highlighting the life-changing impact of owning a racing team.
Exploring Horse Racing Innovations and DNA Applications
Jeffrey shared his experiences of discovering new methods and technologies in the field of horse racing, including inventing the first accurate heart rate meter for racehorses and creating a portable ultrasound machine. He emphasized the importance of curiosity and questioning established knowledge, as he found that many experts in the field were unaware of certain resources and equipment. Jeffrey also discussed his work with DNA, highlighting the potential for early identification of promising horses and the importance of accurate data in AI applications. He criticized the current trend of marketing DNA testing for speed in horses, arguing that it oversimplifies the complex factors involved in horse racing.
EQB, Equine Biometrics, and Racehorse Business
Jeffrey and Michael discussed Jeffrey's company, EQB, which focuses on equine biometrics. Jeffrey shared his company's website, email, and the availability of their research papers. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the racehorse business, which he described as serious and competitive.

Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
27 min
October 21, 2024 Building Strong Personal Brands: Rachel Gogos on Personal Branding, Authenticity, and Professional Connections
Rachel Gogos is a serial entrepreneur passionate about people, the web, and creating strong personal brands. She started her career at the United Nations headquarters in New York City, where she helped create the look and feel of the organization’s first website. Today, in her current role running brandiD, Rachel channels over 15 years of marketing and communications experience into every website for brandiD’s clients.
As the founder of brandiD and MyPath101, Rachel is a true Internet pioneer who created businesses on the web before Google was established as a commercial entity in 1998, long before the phrase “personal branding” became an industry buzzword.
She’s held positions at The Wall Street Journal and DowJones.com and launched three companies besides brandiD. Her entrepreneurial spirit started young; the child of Greek immigrants and Buffalo-based entrepreneurs, Rachel grew up in the restaurant business. As a budding entrepreneur, she developed a strategy and brand identity to turn a dilapidated eatery into a hip family restaurant, which remains a popular destination today.
True to her roots, she loves to work with entrepreneurs and co-founded the Internet incubator SiliconFish.com in the late 90’s while living in Manhattan. The company was a leader in helping to establish and brand offline businesses on the web.
https://thebrandid.com/meet-the-team/rachel-gogos/
https://thebrandid.com/the-business-of-you-podcast/

Quick recap
Diverse Career Paths and Skill Utilization
Rachel, the founder and owner of a brand agency, discussed her diverse career path, which included stints in government, nonprofit organizations like the United Nations, and journalism at the Wall Street Journal. She expressed her gratitude for being able to use all her skills in her current role. Michael, on the other hand, shared his own career journey, highlighting the importance of the skills he acquired in various roles, including accounting and auditing. He emphasized the value of understanding the nuances of different organizations, which he believes is crucial for effective personal branding and building an online presence.
Exploring Roles, Responsibilities, and Personal Branding
Michael and Rachel discussed the challenges of articulating their roles and responsibilities, with Michael expressing difficulty in explaining what he does. Rachel suggested that people often answer why they do what they do, which is more memorable and gets to the heart of a person. They also discussed personal branding, which Rachel defined as a combination of an existing reputation and the personality, values, and passions of an individual. Rachel emphasized that personal branding is not boasting, but rather sharing one's essence with others. Michael agreed, noting that storytelling is an effective way to connect with others and that he uses a conversational writing style to make his content more engaging.
Enhancing Professional Connections and Online Presence
Michael and Rachel discussed the importance of connecting with others, particularly in a professional context. They emphasized the need to share personal stories and passions to create a memorable and relatable image. Rachel highlighted the significance of online presence, suggesting that people should aim to connect the dots between their past experiences and current work. Michael agreed, noting that people are more likely to engage with someone they feel they know personally. They also touched on the role of video content in enhancing online presence and the desire for people to connect with others. The conversation concluded with a discussion on the impact of the pandemic on human connection and the importance of seeking help for those struggling with feelings of loneliness.
Human Connection, Values, and Authenticity in Business
Michael and Rachel discussed the importance of human connection and personal values in business, emphasizing the need for authenticity and alignment with clients' values. They highlighted the significance of branding and values in building trust and loyalty with customers, and agreed that while differing opinions could lead to the loss of clients, it's essential to focus on commonalities and respect clients' passions. They concluded by expressing their intention to apply these insights to their own work.
Authenticity, Self-Awareness, and Personal Growth
Rachel and Michael discussed the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in personal and professional relationships. They emphasized the need to be genuine and not hide one's true beliefs or feelings, as this can lead to mistrust and doubt. Rachel suggested taking time to reconnect with one's true self and set personal goals, while Michael shared his practice of reflecting on his actions and decisions twice a year. They both stressed the importance of approaching challenges with curiosity and understanding, rather than self-criticism, and finding what truly brings excitement and fulfillment.
Personal Growth, Self-Improvement, and Sharing Methodologies
Michael and Rachel had a discussion about personal growth, self-improvement, and the importance of taking time for oneself. Michael shared his personal experience of taking a break from work and how it helped him recharge. Rachel agreed and mentioned her own journey of self-discovery. They also discussed the potential of sharing their methodologies and frameworks with others. Rachel offered her personal brand guide as a tool for self-discovery and professional positioning. Michael expressed his appreciation for Rachel's work and promised to share the link to her podcast and personal brand guide in the show notes.
Networking, Content Creation, and Global Uncertainties
Michael and Rachel discussed their personal and professional experiences, with a focus on networking, content creation, and the current global situation. Michael shared his journey of self-discovery and his shift in focus from client work to content creation, including his podcast. Rachel agreed with Michael's points and expressed her own experiences. They also discussed the uncertainties surrounding the upcoming election and global events, with Michael likening the current situation to the Cold War era.

Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
33 min
October 18, 2024 Conquer Anxiety: Meg Hays' Path to Wellness Through Nutrition and Community Support
Meg Hays is a healthy living coach, speaker, and best-selling author who loves helping women kick anxiety to the curb and step into a life of wellness and resilience. With years of experience in health coaching and her journey with panic disorder, Meg brings a fun, faith-filled, and holistic approach to health, focusing on the powerful combination of nutrition, mindset, healthy habits, and community support.
As the founder of Meg Hays Healthy Living and the Live Well Community, Meg aims to help women ditch those anxiety-ridden days, sleepless nights, and that dreaded "stuffed sausage" feeling in their clothes. She believes that real change comes from small, simple steps and powerful mindset shifts—all within a supportive community. Through her dynamic coaching programs, engaging talks, and inspiring writing, Meg encourages women to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives by living well every day.

www.meghays.com
https://www.instagram.com/meghays72/
https://www.facebook.com/meg.hays
https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-morgan-hays/

Book: Show Your Work: https://amzn.to/4gU7vnV
Summary
Personal Well-Being and Professional Interests Discussion
Michael and Meg discussed their personal well-being and professional interests. Meg, a health coach and bestselling author, shared her mission to help others reduce anxiety and live healthier lives. They also discussed the benefits of online work and the increased access to services it provides. Meg mentioned her online community for women to live healthier lifestyles. The conversation was set to delve deeper into anxiety and share tips on navigating it.
Addressing Global Anxiety and Personal Experiences
Michael and Meg discussed the high levels of anxiety experienced globally, particularly in the fall of 2024. Meg shared her personal experience with anxiety, which began at the age of 8 after a bicycle accident. She described how she felt isolated and misunderstood as she struggled with panic attacks and sought help from a psychiatrist at the age of 27. Meg expressed her advocacy for raising awareness about anxiety and panic disorder, as she believes it is crucial to acknowledge these conditions and provide support for those affected.
Managing Anxiety and Depression With Tools
Meg and Michael discussed their experiences with anxiety and depression and the tools they use to manage these conditions. Meg emphasized the importance of understanding the link between gut health and mental well-being and how healthier food choices can positively impact mental clarity. She also highlighted the value of setting a sleep schedule and being curious about triggers for anxiety. Michael shared his experience with therapy and the importance of grounding oneself in the present moment. Both agreed on the effectiveness of these free tools in managing anxiety and depression.
Discussing Health, Food, and Adequate Sleep
Michael and Meg discussed maintaining good health through food choices and adequate sleep. Michael emphasized that neglecting these aspects can lead to a decline in cognitive ability, increased stress, and a weakened immune system. He shared his personal experience of a health crisis and the impact it had on his life. Meg agreed, highlighting the need for proactive measures to prevent health issues. They both stressed the importance of investing in oneself, comparing it to investing in a good product and encouraged people to make healthier choices.
Improving Daily Routine and Self-Awareness
Michael discussed the importance of understanding how one spends time and making minor changes to improve one's daily routine. He shared his personal experience of wanting to do more in a day and the need to avoid burnout. Michael also touched on the importance of self-awareness, particularly about food choices and their impact on mood and energy levels. Meg agreed, emphasizing the need to consider physical and mental nourishment. Both agreed that making better choices in the present can lead to greater satisfaction and well-being in the future.
Taking Control of Life and Avoiding Victimhood
Meg and Michael discussed the importance of taking control of one's life and making conscious choices to avoid a victimhood mentality. Michael shared his experience of burnout and how he approached it with curiosity, leading to a better understanding of his decisions. Meg emphasized the value of community support and encouraged people to reach out for help when needed. Both agreed that making better choices can lead to a better life and encouraged others to take the first step towards positive change.
Discussing Shared Passions and Personal Backgrounds
Meg and Michael discussed their shared passion for helping others and their mutual admiration for Gen Xers. Meg shared her website, MegHays.com, and encouraged listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
31 min
October 16, 2024 Mastering Leadership Through Ping Pong: Insights from Justin Bookey, Author of 'Ping Pong Leadership
Justin Bookey is the author of Ping Pong Leadership: 18 Principles to Succeed at Any Table in Business, Sports, and Life. He’s a former lawyer, an award-winning marketing strategist, and a competitive table tennis player with medals from the US Open. He grew up in Seattle, Washington, playing a lot of ping pong in the family basement. He now lives in Santa Monica, California, and runs PongFit, a nonprofit that builds fitness and community through ping pong. He has played table tennis on seven continents.

Website: pingpongleadership.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebookey/
Table Tennis and Leadership Principles
Justin shared his passion for table tennis, which he started playing at six. He discussed how the game helped him develop leadership skills, which he later applied in his professional life as a lawyer, digital strategist, marketer, and filmmaker. Justin realized the similarities between the principles used by successful leaders in table tennis and other professions, leading him to write a book titled "Ping Pong, Leadership." He interviewed 18 leaders to exemplify these principles, called the "Pong Principles." Michael, the host, expressed his admiration for the book and its potential to inspire others.
Leadership, Strategy, and Deception in Sports
Michael and Justin discussed the importance of discipline, strategy, and understanding the field of leadership. They highlighted the ability of successful leaders to have a big-picture view and focus on specific matters when needed. Justin also emphasized the accessibility of ping pong, which brings together people from different backgrounds and skill levels. Using table tennis and football examples, they touched on the concept of deception in sports. Justin shared a story about Nolan Bushnell, the founder of Atari, who faced competition from larger gaming companies and intentionally mislabeled parts for his competitors. Michael agreed with Justin's account and reminisced about the excitement of Pac-man's release on Atari. Both acknowledged the strategy behind the mislabeled parts and their impact on the gaming industry. Michael and Justin also discussed the importance of continuous learning and improvement in leadership. Justin shared his favorite principle from the book, "Ready Position," which emphasizes the need to be prepared for any situation by mastering probabilities and optimizing resources.
Passionate Gamer's Life and Gaming Community
Justin discussed the life of a talented individual who was passionate about creating games since childhood. This person, who studied enigmatology, has been actively involved in the gaming community, running contests and joining clubs. Despite pursuing a career in law, his love for games never waned, and he continued to create and participate in various gaming events throughout his life. He also has the world's most extensive collection of historical gaming books, showcasing his deep reverence for the game's history. Michael agreed, describing the individual as a creator and a caretaker of gaming.
Discussing Passion, Dedication, and Cultural Differences
Michael and Justin discussed the importance of passion and dedication in one's profession, using the example of gaming. They agreed that seeing people make their talents work for them, even in challenging circumstances, can be inspiring. They also shared personal experiences, with Justin recalling his time in a large agency where he found enjoyment through playing table tennis. Michael discussed the cultural differences and challenges faced by IT professionals from various countries, highlighting the importance of connectors like table tennis in bridging cultural gaps and fostering camaraderie. He also emphasized the game's stress-reducing and calming effects, which can lead to improved mental agility and clearer thinking.
Note: The Breakfast Leadership Show includes occasional paid partner episodes, in which the guest has paid to appear.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
26 min

About Breakfast Leadership Show

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The Breakfast Leadership Show, hosted by leadership consultant and burnout expert Michael D. Levitt, is a globally ranked leadership podcast exploring how executives build stronger organizations, better leadership systems, and healthier workplace cultures.

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