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Most leaders struggle to make culture tangible—but Joe Kiedinger, co-founder of ProfitCo, shows it’s possible. Through dignity-based, people-first frameworks, servant leadership, and immersive experiences like quarterly LOVE events and leadership adventures, Joe helps leaders embody authenticity while engaging teams meaningfully. From family life to corporate leadership, he shares practical strategies for turning values into action, fostering trust, and creating cultures where people can show up as themselves and thrive.
Summary:
Joe Kiedinger combines a lifelong passion for teaching, creativity, and entertainment with leadership expertise to help CEOs and divisional leaders build dignity-driven, people-centric cultures. By embedding values into daily behaviors, events, and systems, Joe demonstrates how authentic leadership cascades from the top down, improves retention, and transforms organizations. His work proves that investing in people—and starting with yourself—creates momentum that spreads beyond the workplace into families and communities.
Timeline:
[00:00] Introduction: Mitchell Levy & Joe Kittinger
[03:30] Joe’s background & life philosophy: entertainer, father, teaching acceptance
[07:10] Embracing authenticity over “fake it to make it”
[12:15] Building dignity-based, people-first cultures
[18:00] The five core values: Dignity, Courage, Unique, Process, Perseverance
[24:45] LOVE events & leadership adventures: embedding values through experience
[37:50] How to start culture change: lead authentically & work with the willing
[42:30] Personal impact: integrating values into family and relationships
[51:00] How to connect with Joe Kittinger & ProfitCo
Conclusion:
Building a culture isn’t a PowerPoint exercise—it’s a living system. When leaders invest in themselves and their people, authenticity spreads, engagement rises, and teams thrive. Joe Kiedinger shows that starting small, focusing on values, and creating memorable experiences can transform both workplaces and personal lives. True leadership isn’t about hierarchy—it’s about dignity, impact, and helping others shine.
Links/Resources:
Website:
https://www.profit.co/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dignify-guy
Email: [email protected]
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
Many people chase success without ever defining what it truly means to be high performing. We often equate it with working harder, pushing further, and sacrificing more—but rarely stop to ask at what cost. True performance isn’t just about results; it’s about how you achieve them, how you manage your energy, and how you impact the people around you. Without that awareness, success can quietly come with burnout, broken relationships, and unintended consequences.
Summary:
Craig Johns shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in New Zealand to becoming a global leader with experience across multiple countries. In this conversation with Mitchell Levy, Craig explores leadership, parenting, and the importance of energy management. He introduces a powerful framework for high performance—being relentlessly driven toward a vision while avoiding being ruthless or reckless. Drawing from his background in sports, coaching, and global experiences, Craig emphasizes the importance of balance, observation, and nurturing others to create lasting impact both personally and professionally.
Quotes:
● “Energy is your number one currency.”
● “To be high performing, you need a relentless pursuit—without being ruthless or reckless.”
● “Ninety-nine percent of the people you influence, you will never meet.”
Takeaways:
· Focus on energy management through scheduling, focusing, and investing your energy intentionally.
· Be relentless in pursuing your goals, but avoid harming others or yourself in the process.
· Leadership starts with awareness—most of your influence happens without direct interaction.
· Use observation and presence to better understand and lead both children and adults.
· Create boundaries between work and personal life to maintain long-term sustainability.
Timeline:
[00:00] Introduction to Craig Johns
[01:10] Growing Up in New Zealand
[04:30] Global Perspective and Cultural Awareness
[08:20] Parenting and Shifting Priorities
[12:40] Carrying the Torch Philosophy
[17:30] Energy as the #1 Currency
[22:10] Scheduling, Focus, and Recovery Systems
[27:45] Boundaries Between Work and Life
[31:20] What High Performance Really Means
[34:10] Relentless vs Ruthless vs Reckless
[36:50] Final Thoughts and Where to Connect
[38:20] Closing Remarks
Conclusion:
High performance isn’t just about achieving more—it’s about achieving with intention, awareness, and sustainability. By managing energy, maintaining clarity of purpose, and leading with care, it’s possible to pursue excellence without sacrificing well-being or relationships. True leadership lies in balancing ambition with responsibility, ensuring that success uplifts not just yourself, but everyone around you.
Links/Resources:
Website: craigjohns.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/craig-johns-active-ceo-nz
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
Leadership can be deeply fulfilling—but incredibly draining—when you’re trying to build a business, protect your family, and stay true to your values all at once. In a world obsessed with quick wins, hustling harder, and chasing the next deal, stepping back to ask, “Is this healthy for my marriage, my family, and my future?” can feel countercultural. Real leadership at home and in business isn’t just about income or titles—it’s about intentional choices, daily growth, and the courage to admit when you’re getting it wrong.
Nathan Walldorf’s story reminds us that success isn’t just measured in units sold or properties owned, but in the quality of the relationships you build along the way. Treating your spouse like a true partner, defining roles with care, and creating a life that gives you back your time—these are the quiet, powerful decisions that build both wealth and legacy.
Summary
In this episode, real estate investor and former ministry worker Nathan Walldorf shares how he and his wife transformed a strained first attempt at working together into a healthy, values-driven partnership in both marriage and business. He explains how they moved from residential real estate sales into multifamily apartment investing, why setting intentional goals for life and relationships (not just work) changed everything, and how daily practices like listening, affirming, and clearly defining roles helped them grow closer while building long-term wealth and time freedom.
Quotes
* “I treated my wife like she worked for me, not with me—and that was my biggest mistake.”
* “We always set goals for work, but we weren’t setting goals for life or for our relationship.”
* “Before we could do business well together, we had to learn how to do life well together.”
* “Every big, great change in a business starts with that moment of, ‘Something’s got to change.’”
* “Real net worth is in owning property, not just helping other people buy and sell it.”
Takeaways
* Partnership over hierarchy: Treating a spouse like a true partner—not an employee—is essential if you want both a strong marriage and a strong business.
* Life goals matter as much as business goals: You need intentional goals for your relationship, family, and lifestyle, not just revenue and deals.
* Daily intentions change behavior: Simple questions like “How can I help my spouse feel heard and supported today?” can transform how you show up.
* Pain is a signal to pivot: Recessions, burnout, and frustration (“something’s got to change”) can be the catalyst to shift into better, more scalable models like multifamily investing.
* Own assets, don’t just earn income: Long-term freedom and an exit plan come from owning appreciating, cash-flowing assets—not only from transactional commissions.
Timeline
[00:02] Who Nathan Is Beyond Business
[00:07] The First Attempt at Working Together—and Why It Failed
[00:09] Redefining Intentionality and Roles
[00:11] Growth, Mentors, and the Decision to Keep Learning
[00:13] Daily Intentions for Marriage and Partnership
[00:17] The ‘Something’s Got to Change’ Moment
[00:20] From Sales to Multifamily Investing
[00:23] Asset Management and Serving Communities
[00:25] What It Takes to Build a Happy Marriage and Business Together
[00:31] Doing Something Bigger Than You Are
Conclusion
Building a business with your spouse while raising a family and planning for long-term wealth is not an accident—it’s the product of daily, intentional choices. Nathan’s journey shows that “success” without a healthy marriage, clear values, and real ownership is fragile at best.
Resilience in life and business isn’t just about grinding through tough seasons; it’s about letting those seasons teach you. It’s admitting when your approach is unhealthy, redefining how you work together, and shifting from short-term income to long-term assets.
The leaders who last aren’t the ones who never struggle—they’re the ones who keep listening, keep growing, and keep aligning their business model with the life and legacy they actually want.
Links/Resources
Nathan Walldorf & Investing
* Wealth Building Trifecta (Free Resource + Call):
https://thewealthbuildingtrifecta.com
* Waldorf Capital Ventures:
https://www.walldorfcapitalventures.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nathan-walldorf-8938236
Youtube: youtube.com/user/ChattanoogaHomesTV
Stay Connected with Nathan
* (Add any social links Nathan prefers here if available—LinkedIn, etc.)
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
Sometimes the real battle isn’t with drugs or alcohol—it’s with the silence, shame, and pressure that sit behind them. On the outside, life can look successful: a good job, a family, a title that impresses people. But underneath, unspoken expectations, untreated trauma, and the fear of not measuring up can push someone to the edge—sometimes literally. Until we’re willing to name what’s really going on, we keep trying to outwork a pain we’ve never faced. And that’s where real recovery begins: with the courage to say, “I need help,” and the willingness to let someone who’s been there walk beside you.
Summary:
Scott H. Silverman is a crisis coach, interventionist, and longtime advocate for people struggling with substance use disorders and unresolved trauma. After years of numbing himself with alcohol and drugs, culminating in a near-suicide attempt during a business trip in New York, Scott entered treatment in 1984 and rebuilt his life in recovery. Since then, he has dedicated over four decades to helping others, from founding the Second Chance program for people leaving jail and prison to building housing, workforce, and life-skills initiatives that reduce recidivism. Drawing on his own lived experience and a deep understanding of denial, shame, and systemic barriers, Scott and his teams have directly served close to 30,000 people, offering not just sobriety support but a pathway to dignity, self-sufficiency, and family restoration.
Quotes:
* “Real recovery starts the moment you’re brave enough to say, ‘I need help’—and humble enough to listen to the answer.”
* “If the system keeps producing the same broken results, the problem isn’t the people in it—it’s the way we’ve chosen to run it.”
* “You don’t have to see the whole path; you just have to be willing to let go of the life that’s killing you so you can step into the one that’s waiting.”
Takeaways:
* Saying “I need help” is the first and hardest step toward real recovery.
* Lived experience in recovery makes support and intervention far more effective.
* Without housing, jobs, and life skills, people are likely to cycle back into addiction or the system.
* Current systems often profit from people staying stuck, so real change requires challenging the status quo.
* One person’s recovery can positively impact thousands of lives around them.
Timeline:
[00:00] Introduction to Scott H. Silverman
[00:02:25] Early Struggles and Emotional Turning Point
[00:03:30] Family Background and Descent into Addiction
[00:07:34] The “Week from Hell” and Divine Intervention
[00:11:00] Entering Treatment and Beginning Recovery
[00:13:04] Making Amends and Early Recovery Actions
[00:15:42] Marriage, Family Support, and Commitment to Sobriety
[00:19:09] Using Lived Experience to Help Others
[00:21:31] Founding the Second Chance Program
[00:23:30] Reducing Recidivism and System Pushback
[00:27:35] Scale of Impact and Lives Touched
[00:28:31] How to Reach Scott for Help
[00:29:20] What Leaders Must Do to Create Systemic Change
[00:31:15] Hope, Service, and the Importance of Asking for Help
[00:32:01] Closing Remarks and Call to Share the Message
Conclusion:
Scott’s story underscores that meaningful recovery is both an individual and a collective responsibility. On the personal level, transformation begins with the courage to say “I need help” and the willingness to confront long-buried pain, make amends, and accept guidance from those who have walked the same road. On the systemic level, real change demands that leaders stop funding the same failing approaches and instead support models that provide housing, employment, emotional support, and community—treating addiction as a chronic health and social issue rather than a moral failing. When we combine honest self-reflection, compassionate intervention, and structural reform, we create the conditions for people not just to get sober, but to reclaim their lives and positively impact everyone around them.
Links/Resources
Scott H. Silverman Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotthsilverman/
Website:
https://www.confidentialrecovery.com/
https://www.yourcrisiscoach.com/
Veterans Navigation Center:
https://veteransnavigationcenter.org/
Mitchell Levy / Credibility & Leadership
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
What does it really mean for a leader to live their values every day? In this episode, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy sits down with David Carr, founder of Steward Your Business and a veteran in environmental consulting. David discusses his passion for nature, his journey from zoology to helping organizations comply with environmental laws, and the importance of uniting diverse stakeholders. With decades of experience, he shares personal stories about balancing family, business, and purpose. Join us as David explores how integrity and a collaborative mindset can make a difference in both business and life.
Summary
David Carr, a Southern California native and founder of Steward Your Business, discussed his career transition from environmental consulting to business stewardship. He emphasized the importance of understanding and aligning with stakeholders’ objectives, using a collaborative approach rather than a confrontational one. David shared personal insights on balancing work and family life, highlighting the need to prioritize family time and manage commitments. He also reflected on the significance of self-awareness and the journey of personal growth, particularly in leadership roles. David’s mission is to bring people together and create spaces for community and connection, especially for professionals in the AEC industry.
Quotes
* People don’t just comply with the law because it’s there; you have to connect with their hearts first.
* You can be right and still lose at the end of the day, so teamwork and understanding matter more than being correct.
* Kids are amazing mirrors—they show you when you overpromise and underdeliver, holding you accountable to your words.
* Saying yes to something often means saying no to something else, so learning to set boundaries is essential.
* True leadership is about abundance, coming from a place of giving rather than taking, whether in business or at home.
Takeaways
* Leadership means uniting people with diverse interests toward a common goal.
* Environmental consulting bridges the gap between regulations and responsible business.
* Inspiring others is more effective than enforcing rules through authority alone.
* Personal fulfillment comes from aligning work with passion and values.
* Life transitions—both professional and personal—bring valuable perspective to leadership.
Timeline
0:00:04 Introduction and Background
0:02:01 Path to Environmental Consulting
0:04:25 Stakeholder Management: Stick vs. Carrot
0:08:12 Building Teams and the Power of “We”
0:09:43 Learning from Mistakes and Team Feedback
0:11:26 Lessons from Family and Kids
0:13:26 Setting Boundaries and Saying No
0:16:56 Prioritizing Family and Making Time
0:20:31 Understanding Differences in Marriage
0:24:07 Leadership Mission and Group Coaching
0:25:35 Connecting with Audience and Contact Info
0:26:58 Reflections on Identity and Final Thoughts
Conclusion
David Carr’s journey is a testament to the power of leading with both passion and purpose. Through blending his love for nature with expertise in environmental consulting, he has brought together people from all walks of life to achieve shared goals. His story reminds us that true leadership is about inspiration, collaboration, and consistently living one’s values. Whether in the office or outdoors, David exemplifies integrity and adaptability. This episode leaves us reflecting on how we, too, can live our values every day.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarr/
Book “Executive Abundance: Changing the Rules of the Game for Lasting Success and Impact”: https://a.co/d/dKbbvn7
Website:
https://stewardyourbusiness.com/
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
What does it truly mean to live your values as a leader while facing neurodiversity? In this episode, Mitchell Levy interviews Avigail Schondorf, a passionate advocate for ADHD awareness and inclusion. Listeners will connect with Avigail’s personal and professional journey, exploring her expertise in helping male entrepreneurs find clarity. Her stories highlight the importance of authenticity and tailored support. Discover strategies for building both meaningful businesses and resilient lives.
Summary
Mitchell Levy introduces Avigail Schondorf, emphasizing the power of authenticity in leadership and personal relationships. Avigail shares her experiences as an ADHD entrepreneur and mother, revealing how her daughters led her to embrace her own neurodiversity. She details her process in helping male entrepreneurs, especially those struggling privately, break societal norms and seek the right support. Real-life examples demonstrate how strategy sessions clarify business direction and personal growth. Avigail’s journey underscores the significance of purpose-driven businesses and fostering supportive, value-based communities.
Quotes
* I am a very passionate advocate for neurodiversity and inclusion.
* It’s not what you’re not ready to buy, it’s I personally, I cannot sell you something you don’t need, and I don’t know what you need until you know what you need.
* Everything must be customized to you.
* If it’s devoid of purpose, devoid of heart, devoid of vision, devoid of feeling, then it’s just not going to last.
Takeaways
* Authenticity creates strong foundations in both personal and business relationships.
* Recognizing and supporting neurodiversity leads to better understanding and growth.
* Men often struggle to ask for help due to societal pressures, but vulnerability is powerful.
* Customized strategy sessions provide clarity and direction for entrepreneurs.
* Purpose-driven businesses with heart are more sustainable and impactful.
Timeline
0:00:03 Introduction and Connection
0:01:20 Avigail’s Backstory and Neurodiversity
0:07:00 Working with Male Entrepreneurs
0:09:17 The Role of Clarity and Strategy Calls
0:14:20 Success Stories and Outcomes
0:22:58 Handling When Advice Isn’t Taken
0:25:11 Fit and Purpose in Client Work
0:27:49 Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Conclusion
Every leader has a unique journey that shapes their impact on the world. Avigail’s story proves the power of embracing neurodiversity and staying authentic. Her methods inspire entrepreneurs to take bold steps and trust their instincts. When values guide action, both business and personal growth become inevitable. This episode reminds you that clarity, support, and heart are the keys to truly living your values.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avigail-schondorf-720606236/
Book “Selecting the Best: Building a Workforce Driven by Values for Lasting Success”: https://a.co/d/c73L3yE
Website:
https://savvyinitiative.com/
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
What does it truly mean to live your values as a leader? In this insightful conversation, David Cohen shares his powerful journey of authenticity, integrity, and purpose. Learn how living by your principles shapes your legacy, your impact, and your relationships. Discover why organizational success starts with hiring and leading based on genuine values, not just words on a wall. This episode dives deep into the heart of what it means to lead with credibility and intent.
Summary
David Cohen reflects on a lifetime of living and teaching authentic values in both personal and professional settings. He shares influential stories about choosing integrity over convenience, even when it meant walking away from lucrative opportunities. The discussion explores the importance of legacy, defining it as the impact you have on others and the example you set. David also describes his practical approach to identifying and hiring for true organizational values. The conversation concludes with actionable advice for leaders aiming to embed authenticity at every level.
Quotes
* I couldn’t come back to them and say, well, we changed the rules midstream.
* My definition of legacy is, do they live, the behaviors, the values, do they have a vision of the world that fits my vision?
* Integrity is the total of living one’s values.
Takeaways
* Defining and living authentic values is critical for both personal fulfillment and organizational success.
* Integrity means refusing to compromise your standards, even if it comes at a cost.
* Leaders should hire based on demonstrated behaviors that align with core organizational values.
* Authenticity requires consistency between stated values and daily actions.
* Creating a positive legacy involves influencing others to live their values and make the world better.
Timeline
0:00:03 Introduction and Guest Background
0:01:11 Repairing the World and Personal Values
0:03:32 Integrity in Client Relationships
0:10:11 Defining Legacy and Family Influence
0:22:35 Book Overview and Building Values-Driven Teams
0:26:05 Vision, Purpose, and Organizational Alignment
0:27:56 Closing Reflections and Audience Call-to-Action
Conclusion
This episode is a masterclass in the power of living your values. Through captivating stories and actionable insights, David Cohn inspires us to lead with integrity and purpose. Listeners are challenged to examine whether their daily actions reflect their deepest beliefs. The conversation leaves no doubt that authenticity and credibility are the real foundations for lasting success. By the end, you’ll be ready to measure your leadership by the impact you have on your world and those around you.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-l-cohen-07477249/
Book “Selecting the Best: Building a Workforce Driven by Values for Lasting Success”: https://a.co/d/c73L3yE
Website:
https://www.davidcohenphl.com/
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
Get ready for an inspiring conversation as renowned peer innovation expert and leadership strategist Leo Bottary joins Mitchell Levy to illuminate what it truly means for leaders to live their values. Drawing insights from years of advising executives and leading transformative team experiences, Leo unpacks powerful stories from both his family life and consulting work. Together, they explore the essentials of organizational clarity, psychological safety, and the value of celebrating small wins—all while navigating the evolving landscape of multigenerational workplaces. Leo’s engaging perspective reveals why self-awareness, intentional communication, and genuine generosity are the backbone of effective leadership. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring team builder, this episode delivers actionable wisdom on empowering your people and fostering a thriving culture—one intentional step at a time.
Summary
Leo Bottary, Founder of Peer Innovation LLC, discusses his work with CEOs and teams on maximizing value through peer advisory principles. He emphasizes the importance of clarity, psychological safety, and accountability in the workplace. Bottary shares a personal story about teaching his daughters the value of progress over fixation on end goals. He also highlights the need for leaders to be open to change and the benefits of celebrating small wins. Bottary’s company offers a readiness assessment to identify suitable clients and a DIY version for self-led teams. He advocates for generosity in sharing knowledge and involving team members in celebrating achievements.
Quotes
* “Keeping your eye on the peak isn’t enough—you have to look back and celebrate how far you’ve come.”
* “Our kids may not keep us young, but they keep us current.”
* “If you lead with the spirit of generosity, openness, and transparency, it always comes back in the right way.”
* “Clarity is by far the first and biggest challenge for organizations today.”
* “People should choose their own celebrations—it’s about what makes the achievement meaningful for them.”
Takeaways
* Celebrating incremental progress is vital for motivation and resilience in both life and leadership.
* Modern leaders must cultivate clarity, psychological safety, and accountability to unlock their team’s full potential.
* Generosity and openness build lasting trust and elevate organizational culture.
* Multigenerational teams require intentional communication and a willingness to learn from all perspectives.
* Empowering teams to define their own ways to celebrate success leads to stronger bonds and greater satisfaction.
Timeline
0:00:22 | Introduction & Leo’s Background
0:01:42 | Lessons from Parenting & Leadership
0:07:43 | Challenging Command and Control Leadership
0:11:21 | Readiness Assessment & Generosity
0:16:50 | Top Client Issues: Clarity, Safety, Accountability
0:24:01 | The Meaning and Practice of Clarity
0:27:49 | Connecting and Learning More
0:28:59 | Celebrating Wins & Final Reflections
0:31:39 | Episode Wrap-Up
Conclusion
Bringing together lively dialogue and practical wisdom, Mitchell Levy and Leo Bottary inspire listeners to consider how values-driven leadership shapes not only organizations but also our daily interactions and sense of achievement. Leo’s unique blend of family stories and executive insights sheds light on the enduring power of clarity, psychological safety, and genuine generosity in building teams that thrive. By championing the importance of celebrating progress, intentional communication, and collaboration across generations, the conversation offers actionable guidance for leaders eager to foster trust, accountability, and continuous improvement. This episode is a catalyst for anyone ready to nurture a vibrant culture—where recognizing growth and living out core values lead to both personal fulfillment and collective success.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leobottary
Book “Peernovation Second Edition: Forged by CEO Forums. Perfected for Teams”: https://a.co/d/5xLRq0C
Website: https://leobottary.com/about/
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
In this thought-provoking episode, renowned executive coach, author, and global thinker Mike Horne joins Mitchell Levy to unravel the dynamic blend of personal and professional life. With decades of experience advising C-suite leaders, championing authenticity, and exploring the intersection of values and success, Mike shares captivating stories from world travels—including time as a Peace Corps volunteer and journeys along the Civil Rights trail. He offers a fresh look at learning, growth, and the real impact of self-awareness and integrity in leadership. Together, they dive into the power and promise of AI in coaching, the challenges of embracing change, and the lasting value of living—and leading—with purpose. Whether you’re navigating career transitions or yearning for more meaningful connections, Mike’s engaging wisdom will inspire you to think differently and step boldly into your fullest potential.
Summary
Mike Horne, an executive coach, author, and organizational consultant, delves into the richness of integrating personal experiences with professional growth. He shares how roles as a coach, teacher, and global consultant are informed by self-awareness, integrity, and the values learned as a husband, father, and grandfather. Mike reflects on how meaningful conversations and transformational journeys—from Peace Corps service to extensive travel—have shaped his perspective on leadership and personal development. The discussion explores letting go in times of transition, the evolving influence of AI in coaching and education, and the need for authenticity in every connection. Mike’s stories and insights offer a guide for embracing change, cultivating learning, and living with purpose and resilience.
Quotes
* “Having good self-awareness leads to good social interaction, whether it’s with your partner, your clients, or your colleagues.”
* “What I bring to coaching and consulting is being willing to suspend your beliefs about a certain set of circumstances—not to say, ‘I’ve seen this before and here’s how you ought to do it,’ but rather being open to the possibilities of growth and change and development.”
* “Most of my clients come to me because they’re in some sort of transition, and it’s all about letting go, moving forward, and understanding the space in between the past and the future as a creative place for growth.”
* “My coaching style, rooted in authenticity and values, consistently leads to aha moments and actionable solutions.”
* “It’s surprising that as recently as a year ago, I wasn’t using AI in my work, but now I’m a daily consumer—it’s changed a lot in how busy individuals can use AI to find coaching solutions.”
Takeaways
* Authentic leadership and meaningful growth begin with deep self-awareness and integrity.
* Embracing change and navigating transitions is central to both personal development and effective coaching.
* Traveling and seeking out diverse experiences greatly enrich one’s perspective and approach to leadership.
* The thoughtful integration of AI into coaching and education can enhance real-time feedback and support, without replacing human connection.
* Engaging in honest conversations and aligning actions with values are key to building trust, resilience, and fulfillment in both life and work.
Timeline
0:00 — Introduction: The Blend of Personal and Professional
2:00 — The Journey of Self-Awareness
4:30 — Travel and Personal Growth
7:00 — Adapting to Change and Using AI
8:57 — Lewinian Perspectives on Organizations
10:55 — Coaching, Growth, and Transition
13:29 — Challenges in Leadership Coaching
16:00 — Integrity, Authenticity, and Learning
20:24 — Client Feedback and Coaching Style
22:10 — The Role of AI in Coaching
25:09 — AI in the Classroom and Organizational Culture
26:35 — Human Connection and Getting in Touch
27:46 — Closing Thoughts and Appreciation
Conclusion
In this compelling conversation, Mitchell Levy and Mike Horne invite listeners to reflect on the profound intersection between personal growth and professional success. Mike’s insights—drawn from his global experiences, deep coaching expertise, and commitment to integrity—underscore the importance of bringing one’s whole self to every endeavor. Through stories of world travels, transformative career transitions, and embracing both discomfort and discovery, Mike illuminates how authenticity, self-awareness, and values-based leadership can unlock greater fulfillment. Exploring the promise and challenges of AI, adult learning, and organizational change, this episode offers practical wisdom for leaders, changemakers, and anyone seeking to live and lead with purpose. It’s a roadmap for letting go, moving boldly forward, and building meaningful connections in every arena of life.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxwelaschneider/
Book “Integrity by Design: Working and Living Authentically”: https://a.co/d/0OnhVI6
Website:
https://www.mike-horne.com/
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
In this powerful conversation, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy sits down with author, researcher, and consultant Jean Gomes to explore what it truly means for leaders to live their values in a world defined by uncertainty, polarization, and nonstop change. Jean, founder of the research-based consultancy Outside, brings together neuroscience and management insight to explain how mindset really works, why metacognition matters more than IQ, and how leaders can intentionally build the architecture of their brains to navigate complexity, conflict, and transformation. From parenting and partnership to organizational culture and AI, Jean opens up about the costs of the traditional sacrifice mindset and makes the case for a new sufficiency mindset that honors both performance and human needs. If you care about leadership, wellbeing, and the future of work, this episode offers a timely and deeply human roadmap for evolving how we think, feel, and lead.
Summary
Jean Gomes, an author, researcher, and consultant based in the UK, runs Outside, a research-based consultancy that blends neuroscience and management practice to help leaders solve complex challenges. In this conversation, Jean explains his definition of mindset as the way we make sense of ourselves in the world, distinct from personality or simple belief systems. He explores how metacognition and meta-emotions shape our capacity to update our beliefs, handle uncertainty, and avoid the traps of extremism and polarization. Jean shares personal stories of applying mindset science at home with his daughters and spouse, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, emotional feedback, and the willingness to apologize and reinterpret situations. He also addresses the illusion of knowledge created by AI and thought leadership that lacks real experience, and challenges leaders and younger generations to ask what enduring human value looks like in a world of powerful technology. Jean concludes by contrasting the sacrifice mindset with a sufficiency mindset that allows people to be successful while still meeting their physical, emotional, social, and purpose needs, arguing that this shift is essential for healthier individuals, families, organizations, and societies.
Quotes
* “Mindset is not your personality. It’s how you make sense of yourself in the world.”
* “Metacognition can improve dramatically in days with simple practices.”
* “The illusion of knowledge created by AI cannot turn information into wisdom.”
* “We need a new mindset that lets us succeed while still meeting our core human needs.”
* “Negative emotions are signals that a need is not being met, not something happening to us.”
Takeaways
* Mindset is more than a buzzword; it is the way we make sense of ourselves and our world, and it can be intentionally built and refined through awareness and practice.
* Metacognition, or thinking about how we think, is critical for leaders because it enables them to update their beliefs considering new information and avoid rigid, polarized positions.
* Families and close relationships provide some of the clearest feedback on our behavior and mindset, and responding with openness, apology, and reinterpretation can deepen trust and connection.
* Modern organizations are operating in an environment of unprecedented uncertainty, technological change, and geopolitical instability, which amplifies polarization and strains leaders who lack inner capacity.
* AI can make knowledge look easy and accessible, but it does not replace lived experience, wisdom, or the ability to navigate real-world complexity sustainably.
* Younger generations and leaders alike are challenged to ask what enduring human value looks like in a world of AI, rather than chasing superficial forms of advantage or visibility.
* The long-dominant sacrifice mindset, which assumes success requires giving up physical, emotional, and relational needs, is becoming increasingly costly and unsustainable.
* A sufficiency mindset reframes success as being able to win at work while also meeting core needs, treating wellbeing and human needs as a form of social innovation rather than a luxury.
* Paying close attention to negative emotions as signals, rather than suppressing or numbing them, can help individuals recognize unmet needs early and choose healthier responses.
* Jean’s broader mission through Outside is to build a rigorous body of mindset knowledge, test it with organizations, and ultimately make it freely available to children, parents, and leaders everywhere.
Timeline
[0:00:00] Welcome and Introduction
[0:00:24] Who Is Jean Gomes
[0:01:29] Bringing Mindset Science into Family Life
[0:02:18] Redefining Mindset with Neuroscience
[0:03:55] Parenting, Awareness, and Emotional Insight
[0:04:50] Unfiltered Feedback from Children
[0:07:14] Working with a Spouse and Shared Language
[0:08:15] The Need for a Common Language at Work
[0:09:31] Polarization and Leadership Challenges
[0:11:55] Metacognition and Extremes of Belief
[0:13:20] AI, Knowledge Illusion, and Thought Leadership
[0:15:21] Knowledge vs. Wisdom in Real Situations
[0:17:12] Echo Chambers, Emotions, and Belonging
[0:20:11] Technology Amplifying Human Behavior
[0:20:37] Jean’s Library and Personal Environment
[0:21:48] Three Core Mindset Shifts for Leaders
[0:23:45] Understand, Build, Apply Mindsets
[0:24:48] Jean’s Mission and Legacy
[0:26:08] Where to Find and Follow Jean
[0:27:19] The Global Hit to Wellbeing
[0:29:23] From Sacrifice to Sufficiency Mindset
[0:31:14] Emotional Signals and Unmet Needs
[0:31:45] Closing Reflections
Conclusion
Mitchell Levy and Jean Gomes deliver a profound discussion on mindset, leadership, and human evolution in a rapidly changing world. Jean demystifies mindset by grounding it in neuroscience and practical tools leaders can use immediately. His stories illuminate how awareness, emotional intelligence, and genuine reflection can transform families, teams, and organizational culture. Most importantly, he challenges us to move beyond the outdated sacrifice mindset and embrace a sufficiency mindset—one that honors success without abandoning our health, relationships, or core needs. This episode is a timely guide for leaders ready to grow with intention and resilience.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-gomes-7a2244/?originalSubdomain=uk
Book “Leading in a Non-Linear World”: https://a.co/d/0VsV7Km
Website: https://www.weareoutside.com/aboutoutside
Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
Website:
https://MitchellLevy.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CredibilityNation
Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
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