In today’s episode of Counsel Culture, we welcome the incomparable Cassandra Worthy, a former corporate executive turned global keynote speaker and founder of Change Enthusiasm® Global.

Cassandra brings unmatched energy as we talk about real change, real emotions, and the real work it takes to grow through adversity. From navigating multi-billion-dollar M&A activity to facing her own battle with alcoholism, Cassandra’s story is one of grit, grace, and a powerful mindset that she now teaches leaders worldwide: Signal. Opportunity. Choice.

We talk about:

• What it means to embrace the “suck” and find purpose in uncertainty

• How to use emotional energy as a leadership superpower

• The role of mentorship, vulnerability, and relationship capital in navigating change

• Building authentic human connections in an increasingly AI-driven world

• Why empathy and presence are no longer “soft skills”—they’re essential

Whether you're navigating layoffs, acquisitions, or just trying to lead more effectively—this episode is a masterclass in emotional intelligence and change leadership.

This show is dedicated to Cassandra's journey, this conversation is what we make it. This, is Counsel Culture!

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.cassandraworthy.com

[email protected]

From Olympic hopeful to Paralympic silver medalist, keynote speaker, and servant leader, John Register brings more than a story of resilience. He brings a framework for transformation.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why John doesn’t believe in “overcoming” adversity and what he does instead

• The power of redefining your new normal as a launchpad, not a limitation

• His RE framework: Reckoning, Revision, and Renewal

• What it means to “amputate fear” and move forward with purpose

• How to lead teams with empathy, vision, and humanity, even through layoffs or transition

Whether you’re unemployed, in leadership, or standing at your own life’s hurdle, John’s words offer insight, encouragement, and a reminder that the goal is not just to survive adversity, but to hurdle it.

This show is dedicated to John’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | https://johnregister.beehiiv.com/

 

Welcome to The Counsel Culture Podcast, where we explore the heart of leadership and the power of personal growth. Today, we’re diving into The Art of Self-Leadership with author and leadership expert Heather Younger. Heather shares the journey behind her latest book, emphasizing why self-leadership is the foundation for leading others. We’ll discuss the role of gratitude, empowerment, and accountability in shaping our leadership approach, both personally and professionally.

In this conversation, Heather unpacks the dangers of comparison, the importance of self-care, and how fear can hold us back from making bold decisions. She also shares insights on navigating organizational dynamics and why taking ownership of our choices is key to growth. Whether you’re leading a team or leading yourself through life’s challenges, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you step into your full potential. This show is dedicated to Heather's journey, this conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.heatheryounger.com

 

What is up? Hey everyone, Eric Brooker here. I am your host and welcome to Counsel Culture. By now, you know what we are all about. For those of you that are new, this is THE culture and leadership podcast.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome Sylvie Di Giusto to the show. Sylvie is an international keynote speaker, 13-time award winner, and author who has captivated audiences worldwide with her groundbreaking insights on leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal branding. Drawing on two decades of corporate experience in Europe and the U.S., Sylvie has mastered the art of empowering individuals and organizations to harness the "Power of Choice"—a transformative framework that equips leaders to make conscious decisions, align behaviors, and achieve exceptional outcomes. Her innovative work, including the world’s first 3D immersive holographic keynote experience, has earned accolades like the ESPRIT Award and two Davey Awards for her contributions to emerging technology and education.

Sylvie’s ability to connect with audiences stems from her unique dual perspective as both a seasoned corporate leader and a professional speaker. With clients ranging from American Airlines to Microsoft, and Nespresso to the US Air Force, she has earned the trust of some of the world’s most respected organizations to inspire growth in leadership, sales, and customer experience. A Certified Speaking Professional and author of “The Image of Leadership,” Sylvie’s expertise extends to her cutting-edge online courses and volunteer work with the National Speakers Association. Join us as we dive into her remarkable journey and explore the insights that have made her a true pioneer in the speaking industry.

This show is dedicated to Sylvie’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.sylviedigiusto.com 

My guest today is none other than my friend Marques Ogden. Marques is a former NFL player turned inspirational speaker, author, and entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Ogden Ventures LLC, a media and entertainment company that specializes in keynote speaking, business coaching, and consulting. Ogden is a three-time best-selling author and the host of the podcast "Get Authentic with Marques Ogden." In his speaking engagements, Marques leads his audiences to understand why “Authenticity Creates Victory” by sharing his personal story of overcoming adversity and achieving success. Marques is on a mission to inspire CEOs and other senior leaders to maximize their potential to reach their personal and professional goals.

This show is dedicated to Marques’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.marquesogden.com

 

My guest today is an old personal friend and I am thrilled to introduce you to my guest, Meredith Carder. Meredith is an ADHD coach, creator and writer. She holds a BS in psychology and MBA. As a true multi-passionate adult with ADHD, Meredith has gained varied experience over the last 20 years working in employee training and development as well as tackling several small businesses. Meredith prides herself in her ability to hold a supportive space for her clients and facilitate lasting connections in her community for ADHD adults, the Hummingbird Hive. Her recent book, It All Makes Sense Now, seeks to both validate the challenges that exist with ADHD and provide empowering strategies for personal growth. 

This book was not only eye opening for me but also, a game changer.

This show is dedicated to Meredith’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.instagram.com/hummingbird_adhd | www.meredithcarder.com 

 

On a mission to scale positivity and happiness in the workplace. ‍After successfully navigating the vibrant fields of fashion design, systems engineering, cloud engineering, cloud training, and team coaching, Antoni Tzavelas found his true vocation: igniting the spark of inspiration in others as a public speaker and leadership coach. With a focus on spreading the potent messages of happiness and empowerment, his mission is to illuminate paths of personal and professional fulfillment for others. Global engagements have seen him gracing stages at many conferences around the world. Such appearances are complemented by participation in countless community meetups where he has imparted his knowledge and insights, furthering an understanding of leadership, happiness, and empowerment. Antoni guides individuals to prioritize their happiness in every aspect of their lives. By offering straightforward, impactful strategies through keynote speeches and workshops, he empowers people to unlock their full potential. This is not just his career: it’s his mission to help make the world a more inspired and joyful place. Make happiness your superpower!   This show is dedicated to Antoni's journey, this conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.  Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.smilingbowtie.com

My guest today is Johnny Vrba. On average, around 350,000 U.S. students, and nearly one million students worldwide, study abroad every year. Yet since its inception in 1963, only about 73,000 total students from over 1500 colleges and universities have participated in Semester at Sea. It is a truly unique, exclusive, and intimate experience, where students and faculty study, work, and travel to the farthest reaches of the globe.

But what happens when your ship is out to sea when a pandemic hits the world, rumors run rampant, ports begin closing, and thrills turn into turmoil?

Seas the Day is the true story of one student’s first-hand account of being stranded at sea during the most intense time of the Covid-19 pandemic. Through detailed daily journals, Johnny candidly captures the fears, confusion, comradery, and, ultimately, his personal transformational growth and the rediscovery of his faith.

This show is dedicated to Johnny’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.johnnyvrba.com 

One of my all time favorite guests is back….you originally were on episode 77, April 8, 2022!

Melanie Sodka is a human behaviour enthusiast helping overwhelmed people who are over-committed and distracted.

She’s a podcaster and an international speaker who addresses Capacity Management.

Through her structures and frameworks, she reveals how our addiction to distraction is literally breaking down our bodies. Her research and trademarked tools have helped tens of thousands in managing their personal capacity while staying out of burnout and doing more of what they love.

For many years, Melanie has been engaging and shifting the perspectives of her audiences in the classroom, boardroom and conference rooms.

A TEDx speaker, Melanie designs custom talks and virtual series to serve her clients. She is also an experienced lead facilitator for national conferences as well as an EMCEE for various events.

Melanie is also pursuing her dream of writing a book where she shares true stories and a suite of tools, including her very own Egocake™  Framework, intended to guide people through the discovery of their personal capacity and ultimately how to respect it.

This show is dedicated to Melanie’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.melaniesodka.com | www.goodgriefgala.com

 

My guest today is a good personal friend of mine and culture guru, Jake Herway. I had the opportunity to meet Jake at The Purpose Summit a couple of years ago and am grateful for his friendship and mentorship

Jake understands that your business needs more than a short-term fix; it requires a clear vision, a defined identity, and a cohesive team to succeed.

As an accomplished culture and business advisor, he offers an approach beyond traditional leadership development to customer outcomes.

Jake’s Culture to Customer™ approach fosters rewarding work – a culture of passion, purpose, and profit, where individuals are inspired and fulfilled daily and make a difference in areas they deeply care about.

Drawing from nearly two decades of experience in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and financial services, Jake focuses on helping your business achieve its full potential.

This show is dedicated to Jake’s journey. This conversation is what we make it. This is Counsel Culture™.

Learn more at www.ericbrooker.com | www.jakeherway.com