Decision State with Joe Steele

Most leadership mistakes don’t look like mistakes in the moment.
They feel necessary.
In this conversation, Laurent Cohen reflects on what happens when hiring decisions speed up under pressure — and how intuition gets quietly overridden as momentum builds.

Drawing from 30+ years of building companies across Europe, the U.S., and Israel, he describes how judgment narrows, why teams stop pushing back, and how leaders end up fixing decisions that once felt completely right.

This episode isn’t about hiring frameworks.
It’s about what changes internally — before anything breaks.

Learn more about GetOblic
https://getoblic.com
If you’ve had to fix decisions that felt right at the time → https://joesteele.com

Chapters
00:00 — The decision that didn’t feel wrong (cold open)
00:11 — Where expensive decisions actually hide
00:40 — When hiring starts to speed up
02:01 — Why trust, not technology, becomes the constraint
03:00 — The shift toward problem solvers
04:11 — Confusing speed with clarity
05:18 — When the cost hasn’t shown up yet
05:57 — Measuring performance vs reading people
06:35 — How AI is changing the workforce
07:35 — The mistake of treating employees like family
08:48 — Why everything is one-on-one
09:34 — Daily signals and control
10:08 — Open access and no barriers
10:29 — Why intuition still drives hiring
12:26 — Reading body language over listening
13:23 — Knowing in the first 15 minutes
14:06 — When a hire looks right but isn’t
15:44 — What’s missing matters more than what’s said
16:08 — Getting locked into decisions
17:30 — Protecting time for your team
18:29 — Expanding across cultures
20:01 — Why in-office matters
20:33 — When to stop second guessing
22:00 — Building something that actually becomes a business
24:28 — The decisions that feel finished

Decision State explores how leadership judgment changes under sustained responsibility — often before results reflect it.

Most senior leaders don’t burn out dramatically.
Performance continues. Teams deliver. Outcomes hold.

But decision quality can quietly shift.

This show looks at how pressure influences clarity, timing, interpretation, and risk assessment over time — especially in demanding seasons where responsibility doesn’t reset.

Through conversations with founders, operators, and experienced leaders, Decision State examines patterns most people recognize but rarely name.

This isn’t a wellness podcast.
It’s not productivity advice.
And it isn’t performance coaching.

It’s a lens on decision-making under pressure — and why recognizing subtle shifts early protects long-term leadership quality.

If this resonates, Decision State is also delivered as a private executive briefing:

How Pressure Changes Judgment — Before It Shows in Results.

In this dynamic episode, host Joe Steele chats with Mark Wonderlin, the CEO and Founder of Austin-based Mosaic Media Films, to explore the art of video for brands and businesses. The episode dives into Mark's expertise in video marketing and how he helps businesses convert passive audiences into engaged customers. Mark shares his journey of building Mosaic Media Films, the strategies behind crafting compelling video content, and the key elements that drive viewers to take action. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or content creator, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of video marketing and practical tips for boosting conversions through engaging visual storytelling.

00:00 - Introduction

01:35 - Mark’s Path to Entrepreneurship

03:15 - Video is the Trend

05:50 - Why Austin

08:00 - Tapping the Local Market

09:45 - Gathering the Gear to Start

12:00 - Turning Viewers Into Buyers

14:20 - Growing the Client Base

15:30 - Building a Video Success System

21:00 - Hands on Clients

23:10 - Building Your Own Brand

24:50 - The Right People in the Right Seat

28:30 - A Week in the Life for Mark

30:40 - Avoiding Burnout

34:00 - Clarity & Focus

36:40 - Advice for Longevity in Business

39:05 - Connect with Mark & Mosaic

Show Resources:

mosaicmediafilms.com/

www.linkedin.com/in/markwonderlin/

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, host Joe Steele interviews Lindy Nowak, the founder and CEO of UpinaDay.co, to uncover the secret to standing out in a crowded marketplace: exceptional service. This episode explores how Lindy built her business on the foundation of providing unparalleled customer service and delivering rapid, high-quality results.

In this engaging episode of Experience Curve, host Joe Steele sits down with Manu Venditti, a seasoned linguist and founder of Italy Made Easy, to explore the fascinating world of language learning. The episode delves into Manu's belief that everyone has the potential to become a skilled linguist. Manu shares his journey of mastering multiple languages, the techniques he uses to help others do the same, and how understanding language can enhance communication and cultural connections. Whether you're a language enthusiast or just curious about the art of communication, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of language and how we can all tap into our innate linguistic abilities.

In this insightful episode of Experience Curve, host Joe Steele interviews Sean Tepper, the savvy entrepreneur and Founder of Tykr, to discuss the critical process of finding product-market fit. We delve into Sean’s experiences and strategies for aligning products with market needs. Sean shares his journey of trial and error, the lessons learned in honing his offerings, and how staying focused on the right niche can lead to long-term success. Whether you're launching a startup or refining an existing product, this episode provides actionable insights into achieving product-market fit and navigating the challenges along the way.

00:00 - Introduction 

00:40 - Origin Story

05:05 - Finding a Unique Value

06:10 - Staying in the Swim Lane

09:20 - Bootstrap Funding

10:30 - How the Pandemic Affected Launch

12:25 - Product Market Fit

14:30 - An Ethical Spy

16:05 - What I Would Have Done

18:35 - Charting the Growth

21:55 - Where are Your Customers Hanging Out

25:30 - Building a Team

30:15 - The Defining Moment

34:45 - Do That Which Generates Revenue First

36:50 - Essential Tools

39:50 - Rethinking Patnerships

41:15 - What’s Next for Tykr

43:50 - Advice for Starting Your Own Business

45:50 - Connect with Sean

Show Resources:

tykr.com/

www.linkedin.com/in/seantepper/

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, host Joe Steele sits down with Lance Cayko, an accomplished architect and co-founder of F9 Productions, to explore the inner workings of his architectural firm. The episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of running a successful architecture practice. Lance shares his insights on the creative process, the business side of architecture, and the importance of balancing innovation with client needs. Whether you're an aspiring architect, a design enthusiast, or curious about the architecture industry, this episode offers valuable perspectives on what it takes to thrive in the world of architecture.

00:00 - Introduction

01:15 - Lance’s Origin Story

04:10 - Rich Dad, Poor Dad

07:50 - For Me, Freedom is Everything

10:00 - Running a Business

11:50 - Meeting a Partner

20:40 - Building the Brand

22:15 - The Michael Jordan Chip

25:00 - Finding the First Clients

29:30 - The First Hire

31:50 - How AI is Impacting Architecture

34:05 - A New Kind of Proposal

36:00 - The Focus Had to Be Customer Service

36:45 - Inside the Firm Podcast

40:25 - Fishing with Lance

44:20 - What’s Next for F9

47:00 - Connect with Lance

Show Resources:

f9productions.com/

www.linkedin.com/in/lance-cayko-1227031a/

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠

In this enlightening episode, host Joe Steele talks with Mark Majkrzak, the innovative Founder and CEO of Responsibly Rain. This episode dives into Mark's mission to create a sustainable and responsible bottled water company. Mark shares his journey from identifying a critical environmental need to developing a product that addresses it head-on. He discusses the challenges of building an eco-friendly business, the importance of sustainability in today's market, and the innovative practices that set Responsibly Rain apart. Tune in to learn how Mark is redefining the bottled water industry with a focus on environmental responsibility and discover actionable insights for creating a business that makes a positive impact.

00:50 - The Inspiration for Rain

03:00 - How Rain Stands Out in the Bottled Water Space

04:30 - Evaluating the Idea

07:05 - Finding the Funding

10:40 - Learning to Sell

12:40 - Better Brand Identity

14:55 - Protecting Privacy

15:25 - Don’t Say Yes Too Often

17:40 - Charting the Growth

19:30 - Selling as a Solution

22:05 - Building a Community

23:45 - Brand Transparency

25:10 - Tipping Point(s)

26:25 - The First Hire

28:00 - What is the ROI?

30:30 - Managing Your Time

32:05 - What’s Next For Rain?

33:30 - Resources Rain & Mark Can’t Live Without

34:15 - Starting a Product Business

34:55 - Connecting with Rain & Mark

Show Resources:

responsiblyrain.com/

www.instagram.com/responsiblyrain

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠

In this transformative episode, host Joe Steele interviews Kit Pang, the Founder and CEO of Boston Speaks, a leading public speaking coaching business. This episode explores Kit's journey from overcoming his own fear of public speaking to building a successful career helping others do the same. Kit shares his personal story of conquering anxiety, the pivotal moments that led to the creation of Boston Speaks, and the techniques he uses to empower individuals to become confident speakers. Tune in to discover how Kit's unique approach transforms public speaking from a dreaded challenge into a powerful skill, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their communication abilities and boost their professional growth.

01:40 - Who Can Persuade Others

03:10 - No Entrepreneurial Upbringing

04:55 - From a Fear to a Profession

06:05 - How Dance Prepared Kit for Public Speaking

09:25 - Structuring a Business

11:35 - Branding Boston Speaks

17:10 - Seeing the Results

19:30 - Expanding the Team

22:00 - Finding Focus

23:20 - Why Speaking Coaches Overlook the Inner Game

25:00 - Niched Down is Easier

26:15 - Speak Studio

29:05 - International Clients

31:05 - Filler Words

33:15 - TedX

35:30 - Giving Back

36:15 - Boston

39:10 - How a Fit Body Can Aid an Active Mind

42:10 - What’s Next for Boston Speaks

44:00 - Connect with Kit

Show Resources:

www.bostonspeaks.com/

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, host Joe Steele sits down with Wayne Mullins, the innovative Founder and CEO of Ugly Mug Marketing, to discuss the philosophy of prioritizing results over aesthetics. This episode delves into Wayne's unconventional approach to marketing as well as his own journey from business to business as a serial entrepreneur. Wayne shares his journey of building a successful marketing firm, the core principles behind Ugly Mug Marketing, and real-world examples of how focusing on effectiveness has driven remarkable success for his clients. Tune in to learn why sometimes the best strategies aren't the prettiest and how embracing a results-oriented mindset can revolutionize your marketing efforts. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or just intrigued by innovative approaches, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

02:00 - Entrepreneurial Beginnings

03:40 The Importance of Perseverance

05:00 - Lawn Care Business

06:50 - Selling a Business

08:15 - Family Concerns for a Business Owner

09:30 - Transitioning to a New Industry

10:00 - The Answer Was Marketing

12:50 - “No One Believed It Would Work For Them”

16:00 - “Sell People What They Want and Give Them What They Need”

18:30 - When It Clicked

21:00 - Results Over Aesthetics

22:25 - “I Want My Team to Be the Experts”

23:35 - Bringing on a Team

27:30 - You Can Build Something of Worth Wherever You Are

29:50 - People at the Top Are Curious

31:45 - Wayne’s Impact

33:25 - What Do I Need to Start Working on Today

35:20 - Watching Others Learn to Lead

37:55 - Wayne’s Biggest Weakness

39:20 - What’s Next for Wayne and UglyMug

40:50 - Connect with Wayne

Show Resources:

www.uglymugmarketing.com/

www.instagram.com/fireyourself/

Get Joe’s Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Investing: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YrkcRDMxHZgJl5WUfJ4HEUZBWHM4twWx/view?usp=drive_link⁠⁠⁠