In this episode, host Mike Simmons dives into the complexities of leadership—how to lead up to difficult leaders, work effectively across teams, and lead teams with clarity and purpose. Mike shares personal experiences, leadership philosophies, and actionable strategies to help listeners navigate leadership challenges at all levels.

Key Quotes:

1. "Leadership starts with self. If you're looking for leadership, start with a mirror."
2. "If you think different, you can do different. If you do different, you can be different."
3. "Sometimes, the hardest part of leadership is managing the assumptions we make about others."

Episode Summary (50 Words):

Leadership isn’t just about managing others—it’s about self-awareness, clear communication, and building trust. In this episode, Mike Simmons explores how to lead up to difficult leaders, collaborate across teams, and inspire those we manage. He shares tools and insights to navigate leadership challenges with confidence, clarity, and a service-oriented mindset.

5 Key Takeaways: 1. Leading Up to Leadership Challenges

• Understand your leader’s background, concerns, and goals before making assumptions.
• Improve communication by aligning with their priorities and preferred methods.
• If a leader is ineffective, decide if you can help—or if it’s time to move on.

2. Building Strong Cross-Team Relationships

• Empathy is key: understand what other teams care about and what challenges they face.
• Transparent communication fosters collaboration, even in competitive environments.
• Align team efforts with business goals to create a unified direction.

3. Leading Your Team with Clarity

• Get to know your team’s goals, communication styles, and career aspirations.
• Provide opportunities for cross-functional learning to build leadership skills.
• Lead with transparency, trust, and a willingness to adapt.

4. The Importance of Effective Communication

• Leadership is built on clear, purposeful communication.
• Miscommunication happens—what’s said, what’s heard, and what’s remembered are rarely the same.
• Tools like structured feedback loops and regular check-ins prevent misunderstandings.

5. Leadership as an Act of Service

• Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about enabling others to succeed.
• Sometimes, leaders struggle due to insecurity; build trust to help them delegate.
• If leadership doesn’t align with your values, it’s okay to step away.

Final Thoughts:

Leadership is a journey of continuous growth. Whether leading up, across, or down, it starts with self-awareness and service. This episode provides practical insights to help you lead with confidence, no matter your position.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our weekly email helps leaders accelerate their impact at work, in life, and within their families.

📩 Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Jody Maberry is a seasoned podcaster, content creator, and business strategist known for his work with high-profile executives like Lee Cockerell. He has helped launch and grow numerous podcasts, build impactful courses, and guide senior executives in shaping their post-corporate careers. In this episode, Jody shares insights into podcasting, content creation, and the evolution of his work in helping leaders transition to their next chapter.

Key Quotes

1. "When you have to show up every week with something to say, you actually start to find out what you believe in."
2. "There’s nothing new except what has been forgotten."
3. "If you even have a little bit of interest in podcasting, just start doing it."

Episode Summary

In this episode, Jody Maberry and Mike Simmons dive deep into the evolution of podcasting and content creation. Jody shares how podcasting has changed over the years, why it’s easier than ever to get started, and how he helps executives transition from corporate careers to creating their own platforms. They also explore the power of AI in content creation and why having a podcast—even if you don’t monetize it—is a valuable tool for personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways 1. Podcasting as a Catalyst for Clarity

• Recording a podcast regularly forces you to articulate and refine your ideas.
• The discipline of speaking weekly helps shape and develop strong viewpoints.
• Even if you don’t publish episodes, podcasting is a powerful way to process thoughts.

2. The Evolution of Podcasting Technology

• Tools like pocket-sized microphones make recording easier than ever.
• AI-generated show notes save time and improve efficiency.
• New platforms like NotebookLM summarize content and generate podcast-style conversations.

3. Navigating the “What’s Next” for Senior Executives

• Many executives struggle with feeling less relevant after leaving corporate roles.
• The challenge is translating decades of experience into a digestible, engaging format.
• Creating content—whether podcasts, books, or courses—helps preserve and share their expertise.

4. The Power of Relationships in Content Creation

• Jody met Mike through their mutual connection with Lee Cockerell.
• Communities formed around content—whether podcasts or masterminds—have long-term impact.
• Shared experiences and collaboration lead to new ideas and opportunities.

5. The Realities of Podcast Longevity

• While millions of podcasts exist, only a small fraction are consistently updated.
• Success in podcasting comes from consistency, not necessarily the number of listeners.
• The average podcast fades out after just 10 episodes—sticking with it is a differentiator.

Final Call to Action

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family. Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Tim Dyck is an expert in HR and recruiting, specializing in fractional leadership—a growing approach that helps organizations get high-level expertise without committing to full-time hires. As the founder of Best Culture Solutions, Tim provides fractional HR services to help businesses build strong teams efficiently.

Mike Simmons, host of Find Your Catalyst, is a leader in revenue growth and business strategy, guiding organizations to achieve operational excellence through fractional leadership and strategic execution.

Top 3 Quotes:

1. "Fractional leadership isn’t new—it’s just getting a name. Leaders have been doing this for years without calling it 'fractional.'"
2. "The goal isn’t to stay forever—it’s to create movement and momentum, then step away so the business can thrive without you."
3. "If you’re struggling with leadership, operations, revenue, or execution, you don’t need to struggle—there are operators who can help."

Fractional leadership is gaining traction as a powerful way for businesses to get high-level expertise without long-term commitments. Tim Dyck and Mike Simmons break down what fractional leadership is, why it matters, and how it can be applied effectively. They discuss different fractional models, success strategies, and the key to finding the right fit.

5 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ What is Fractional Leadership?

• Fractional leadership allows businesses to hire experienced leaders for specific needs without full-time costs.
• It has existed for years under different names, such as consulting or contract leadership.
• The right fractional fit depends on the business's goals, structure, and existing team.

2️⃣ Why Companies Choose Fractional Leaders

• Small businesses benefit from executive expertise without hiring a full-time executive.
• Startups and scaling companies use fractional roles to fill gaps until they can hire full-time.
• Fractional leaders bring fresh insights and cross-industry experience, accelerating growth.

3️⃣ The Different Models of Fractional Work

• Some fractional leaders work hourly, while others charge per project or outcome.
• The best model depends on the business’s needs—operational execution vs. strategic guidance.
• A good fractional leader integrates into the organization while maintaining independence.

4️⃣ How to Find the Right Fractional Leader

• Leaders should assess their organization’s specific needs before hiring fractionally.
• A clear scope of work ensures alignment and success in fractional engagements.
• Businesses must avoid hiring a fractional leader just to “fill a gap” without a clear strategy.

5️⃣ The Leadership Mindset in Fractional Roles

• The best fractional leaders set up systems and processes to succeed without them.
• Success isn’t about staying long-term—it’s about enabling the organization to move forward.
• Strong communication and alignment with the company’s goals drive the best results.

Resources & Links:

📌 Take the Fractional Readiness Assessment: https://FindMyCatalyst.com/fractional 📌 Learn more about Best Culture Solutions: bestculturesolutions.ca

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email helps leaders accelerate their impact in work, life, and leadership. 👉 Subscribe here: FindMyCatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Morgan Ingram is a sales strategist, content creator, and keynote speaker known for his innovative approach to outbound sales and personal branding. A three-time guest on the podcast, Morgan shares insights on continuous experimentation, leveraging LinkedIn for business growth, and the importance of faith and flow in both personal and professional life.

Key Quotes from Morgan Ingram

1. "You cannot lose if you do an experiment. It’s near impossible."
2. "Most people who say something is ‘dead’ just aren’t good at it."
3. "Faith is believing in something bigger than yourself, that is hard to describe, but you know it’s there."

Morgan Ingram returns to discuss the power of continuous testing in business and personal growth. He dives into his structured approach to LinkedIn outreach, the role of faith in navigating life’s challenges, and how finding flow has transformed his daily routine. A must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, strategy, and inspiration.

5 Key Takeaways 1. The Power of Experimentation

• Treat every test as a learning opportunity—you can’t lose.
• Keep refining strategies based on real-world data.
• Be patient and persistent—what doesn’t work today might evolve into tomorrow’s breakthrough.

2. Embracing an "And" Mindset in Sales & Business

• Outbound and content marketing are not either-or; they work best together.
• Success comes from adapting strategies, not declaring them obsolete.
• A blended approach increases efficiency and builds stronger relationships.

3. Faith and Personal Growth

• Faith provides grounding when external circumstances are uncertain.
• Relying on something bigger than yourself reduces stress and increases clarity.
• Investing in spiritual growth can positively impact other areas of life.

4. Leveraging LinkedIn for Business Success

• Engage only with people who have posted in the last 30 days for higher response rates.
• Use a CRM-like system for tracking sales conversations and outreach.
• Video content stands out—executives rarely receive personal videos, making them a game-changer.

5. Finding Flow in Life and Work

• A well-structured routine creates balance across fitness, relationships, spirituality, and career.
• Eliminating distractions leads to better focus and increased productivity.
• Seeking mentorship and coaching accelerates growth and provides accountability.

Final Thought

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family. 📩 Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Heli Nehama-Ozery, an expert in leadership development and organizational design, dives into the transformative power of feedback in leadership. From strategies for giving and receiving feedback to using it as a catalyst for growth, Heli shares her insights on creating cultures that thrive on learning, reflection, and effective communication.

Key Quotes from Heli Nehama-Ozery

1. "Feedback is the most marvelous leadership tool that is usually not used enough or correctly. It elevates performance by providing an outside perspective."
2. "The real control comes from asking questions, not from what you say. Questions let you understand where the other person is and build better communication."
3. "When we put growth and learning as our main focus, that's where real behavioral change happens."

In this episode, Heli Nehama-Ozery explores the art and science of feedback as a leadership tool. She explains how to overcome common fears around giving and receiving feedback, the importance of separating facts from interpretations, and using feedback to unlock individual and team growth. Heli also discusses actionable ways to improve communication, self-awareness, and organizational learning.

Find your Catalyst at https://findmycatalyst.com 

5 Key Takeaways 1. The Power of Feedback in Leadership

• Feedback reveals blind spots that improve individual and team performance.
• Fear often prevents leaders from delivering feedback; preparation can overcome this.
• Intentional feedback strengthens relationships when approached with empathy.

2. Receiving Feedback with Openness

• Focus on extracting actionable insights, even if the delivery is flawed.
• Use Stephen Covey’s Circle of Influence to identify what’s within your control.
• Ask clarifying questions to fully understand feedback and avoid emotional reactions.

3. Giving Feedback Effectively

• Prepare the recipient to avoid triggering defensive responses.
• Combine facts and interpretations while remaining open to discussion.
• Encourage reflection with specific, actionable examples to build understanding.

4. The Role of Communication in Feedback

• Silence is a tool; give space for the recipient to think and process.
• Differentiate between fact-based observations and subjective interpretations.
• Tailor feedback to the recipient’s communication and processing style.

5. Cultivating a Growth-Oriented Feedback Culture

• Balance strengths and areas for improvement; aim for a 50/50 focus.
• Use feedback to highlight positive behaviors for team-wide learning.
• Leaders must model lifelong learning and embrace feedback to inspire teams.

 

Heli Nehama Ozery is the founder of Artemis OD, a consulting firm that empowers frontline managers and trainers to elevate performance and build meaningful relationships. Through tailored leadership development programs, experiential learning, and practical communication tools, she helps global teams thrive and achieve lasting impact.

Website: https://www.artemisod.com/

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

Pianpian Xu Guthrie is an innovator at the intersection of AI and leadership coaching. With a background in product management at companies like Ticketmaster and GoDaddy, Pianpian has translated her experiences into building AI tools designed to enhance workplace collaboration and individual growth.

Her latest venture, Amotions, delivers real-time coaching for professionals, aiming to make AI a trusted partner in team dynamics and sales effectiveness.

Three Key Quotes

1. "AI makes it possible to have a coach with you 24/7—no judgment, just guidance."
2. "When building AI products, we have to address skepticism by showing clear, measurable results."
3. "If someone has a burning problem, they’re often willing to use a solution—even if it’s not perfect."

Pianpian Xu Guthrie shares her journey from product management challenges to creating cutting-edge AI solutions for leadership and sales coaching. She discusses the transformative potential of AI in professional growth, strategies for integrating AI tools into organizations, and how real-time feedback can improve communication, productivity, and emotional intelligence in the workplace.

Find your Catalyst at https://findmycatalyst.com 

Five Key Takeaways

1. Why Build Amotions

   • Pain points in early career fueled Pianpian’s vision for AI-driven coaching.
   • She saw AI as a solution to bridge gaps in leadership communication.
   • Real-world challenges inspired scalable, accessible solutions for professionals.

2. AI's Role in Collaboration and Coaching

   • AI can analyze emotions and provide actionable insights during meetings.
   • Coaching tools offer real-time and post-meeting feedback to users.
   • Personalized AI tools address diverse preferences for learning and adaptation.

3. Balancing Product Vision with Customer Needs

   • Successful product development requires balancing user feedback with strategic priorities.
   • Prioritization tools like structured feedback systems help maintain focus.
   • Open communication between sales, engineering, and product teams is crucial.

4. Embracing AI in a Skeptical World

   • Challenges include concerns over data security and AI accuracy.
   • Early adopters have spurred broader acceptance by showcasing clear benefits.
   • Transparency and measurable results are vital to overcoming skepticism.

5. The Future of AI Coaching

   • Young professionals increasingly prefer AI as a non-judgmental tool.
   • Amotions innovations include role-playing scenarios and real-time coaching.
   • AI’s potential lies in its ability to enhance human interactions and outcomes.

Connect with PianPian at - https://www.amotionsinc.com/

Coach K (Jonathan) is an AI and Enablement expert and business consultant, deeply engaged in how emerging technology reshapes industries. Known for his sharp insights into leveraging AI for efficiency, scalability, and innovation, Jonathan shares transformative ideas about staying ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Key Quotes:

1. "AI isn't just a tool; it's an amplifier for human potential. It's about taking what makes you unique and multiplying it by ten."
2. "Are you willing to think and do things differently from what you've done before?"
3. "The moat of the future will be humans and what one person can do with a fleet of AI agents."

Jonathan (Coach K) explores the transformative power of AI agents, challenging listeners to rethink their approaches to business and technology. From automation to amplifying human skills, he unpacks the mindset shifts needed to thrive in a future where innovation is constant, and adaptability determines success.

Find your Catalyst at https://www.findmycatalyst.com/

5 Key Takeaways:

1. The Role of AI as a Catalyst:

   • AI amplifies individual capabilities, turning a person’s expertise into scalable results.
   • Effective prompting and expertise produce exponentially better AI outputs.
   • Companies leveraging AI for automation experience dramatic efficiency gains.

2. Thinking Differently in the AI Era:

   • Adopting a beginner's mindset allows exploration and continuous learning.
   • Old strategies may not apply—AI opens doors for innovative solutions.
   • Success requires being uncomfortable and testing boundaries.

3. The Power of Agents in Automation:

   • Agents go beyond chatbots by making decisions and executing tasks autonomously.
   • They can create workflows, analyze results, and iterate without constant input.
   • Businesses must learn to trust and train AI for complex operations.

4. AI as a Revenue Plumber:

   • AI can identify inefficiencies and leaks in business processes.
   • Outcome-based approaches ensure technology is aligned with measurable results.
   • Thinking of AI as a partner, not just a tool, maximizes its potential.

5. Bridging the Comfort Gap:

   • Start small but aim for large-scale innovation by testing AI in safe areas.
   • Challenge limiting mindsets, such as seeing AI as an "intern."
   • Encourage teams to view AI as an extension of expertise, not a replacement.

Connect with Coach K:

Find Jonathan (Coach K) on LinkedIn for updates, insights, and resources. Stay tuned for his upcoming projects on leveraging AI agents to create transformational change.

Connect with Coach K at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmkmba/ 

In this solo episode, host Mike Simmons kicks off 2025 with a focus on leadership, personal growth, and impactful goals. Drawing from experiences in business, family, and life, Mike shares insights into building better leaders, fostering collaboration, and addressing the persistent leadership gap.

Key Quotes from Mike Simmons:

1. "Leadership starts with self. Build self-worth, self-awareness, and self-confidence, and then earn the right to lead others."
2. "Stop wasting your team’s time with ineffective meetings—engage them in solving real problems with clear next steps."
3. "Think different so that you can do different, and ultimately, be different."

Mike Simmons reflects on the successes and lessons of 2024 while setting an ambitious agenda for 2025. With two key goals—expanding the Leader Lab and hosting 200 guided whiteboard sessions—Mike emphasizes the importance of leadership development and effective collaboration. He also shares personal aspirations and strategies for achieving clarity and impact.

Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Leadership Starts with Self

• Build a foundation of self-worth, self-awareness, and self-confidence.
• Assess and align personal values to lead authentically.
• Leadership isn’t a title—it’s a practice you earn and refine.

2️⃣ Effective Collaboration in Meetings

• Differentiate between communication, decision-making, and collaboration meetings.
• Use structured tools to focus meetings on problem-solving or alignment.
• Clear next steps and accountability prevent wasted time and effort.

3️⃣ The Leader Lab’s Mission

• A community for leaders who want to think and act differently.
• Focus on building leaders at every level—not just executives.
• Goal: 100 members by June 2025 to inspire and sustain a global leadership movement.

4️⃣ Guided Whiteboard Sessions for Results

• Facilitate 90-minute virtual sessions for teams to solve problems or design strategies.
• Engage team expertise to drive results with clarity.
• Develop team-building and sales skills using catalyst tools.

5️⃣ Goals Beyond Business

• Personal Goal: Achieve under 200 lbs. and 14% body fat by April.
• Family Focus: Create lasting impact and strengthen bonds through intentional action.
• Apply tools and systems to personal life for holistic growth.

Action Steps for Listeners:

• Join the Leader Lab: Build your leadership capabilities.
• Book a Guided Whiteboard Session: Transform how your team collaborates.
• Reflect on how you can think differently about your leadership and process.

📧 Questions or Suggestions? Email [email protected] 🌐 Learn More: FindMyCatalyst.com

Vincent Pugliese, a former sports photographer turned entrepreneur, shares his transformative journey of creating meaningful experiences, building connections, and inspiring others to live with intention. From his spontaneous trip to the Rose Bowl to the deeply personal lessons learned from his late brother, Vince embodies the power of living authentically. His work focuses on helping people find freedom through creativity, community, and recurring revenue.

Three Key Quotes:

1. "Live your life. Eliminate the excuses. Do the work to make it happen."

2. "Sales is not about doing something to someone; it's about doing something for someone."

3. "You don’t need funnels or big budgets; conversations and relationships are what create meaningful impact."

Vincent Pugliese dives into his philosophy of living a life rich in experiences, honoring loved ones, and inspiring action through connection. Sharing personal stories and actionable advice, Vince challenges us to reframe how we approach decisions, social media, and community building to create freedom and purpose in our lives.

Check out Vince at - https://mymembershipfreedom.com/

Find Your Catalyst at - https://www.findmycatalyst.com/ 

5 Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Spontaneous Experiences

   • Don’t wait for the "perfect time"—make the decision and act.
   • Experiences leave lasting memories, not regrets.
   • Facing loss can inspire a renewed commitment to living fully.

2. Building a Legacy Through Stories

   • Share personal stories to honor loved ones and connect with others.
   • Vulnerability strengthens bonds and creates impact.
   • Legacy is shaped by the relationships and experiences we leave behind.

3. Reframing Social Media as a Tool for Connection

   • Treat social platforms as a way to build attention, trust, and connections.
   • Focus on creating valuable, authentic content.
   • Personal engagement can lead to deeper relationships and greater impact.

4. Embracing Mistakes and Uncertainty

   • Mistakes are the greatest teachers; embrace them.
   • Fear of imperfection often prevents meaningful action.
   • Reframe challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

5. Freedom Through Recurring Revenue

   • Prioritize recurring income streams to free your time for what matters most.
   • Align your business with personal values like family and creativity.
   • True freedom is the ability to choose experiences over obligations.

Mike Simmons, founder of Find My Catalyst, reflects on 2024's milestones, challenges, and lessons learned. He dives into leadership, communication clarity, and strategies for personal and professional growth while sharing insights on building the Leader Lab and addressing leadership challenges.

Three Key Quotes from Mike Simmons:

1. "Stop what you would not start." Emphasizing the importance of eliminating activities and relationships that no longer serve your goals.

2. "If you're looking for leadership, start with a mirror." Leadership begins with self-awareness and personal growth.

3. "The revenue challenge inside your business is likely a culture challenge in disguise." Highlighting the deep connection between culture and financial success.

Mike Simmons recaps 2024, exploring what worked, what didn’t, and where he’s stuck. From refining leadership strategies in the Leader Lab to improving communication clarity, Mike discusses creating space for growth, focusing on self-leadership, and the ongoing challenge of turning abstract concepts into actionable steps for personal and organizational success.

Find Your Catalyst at https://www.findmycatalyst.com/

Key Takeaways:

1. Leadership is a Personal Journey

   • Leadership begins with self-awareness and self-improvement.
   • Build clarity and focus to simplify decision-making and execution.
   • Eliminate distractions and relationships that don’t align with your goals.

2. The Power of Reflection

   • Use a "start, stop, continue" framework to evaluate progress.
   • Reflect on time management to prioritize meaningful experiences.
   • Recognize and celebrate milestones to sustain momentum.

3. Communication and Clarity

   • Bridge the gap between abstract ideas and actionable plans.
   • Use tools like whiteboards or soundbites for effective communication.
   • Test and iterate on messaging to ensure alignment with your audience.

4. Overcoming Business Challenges

   • Address leadership and cultural challenges to unlock revenue growth.
   • Create systems that facilitate autonomous conversions without direct involvement.
   • Seek expert advice in areas like copywriting and marketing for improvement.

5. Fostering Growth and Impact

   • Engage in intentional outreach to amplify reach and influence.
   • Leverage platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn for broader engagement.
   • Focus on accelerating the transition from insight to action for clients and audiences.