Dr. Mitchell Levy Presents

In this insightful episode, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy is joined by executive coach, author, and values-driven leader Mary Olson-Menzel to explore what it truly means to live and lead with authenticity and purpose. Mary shares her journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur, reveals pivotal moments of choosing fulfillment over comfort, and opens up about supporting her family, clients, and herself in the pursuit of meaningful lives and careers. Together, they discuss the real challenges of burnout, the power of scenario planning, and the importance of standing by your values—even when it’s hard. Whether you’re an organizational leader, an aspiring changemaker, or simply seeking greater balance and joy in life, Mary’s practical wisdom and the conversation about finding your ikigai will light you up and inspire you to act.

Summary

Mary Olson-Menzel, an executive coach and author, discusses her multifaceted roles and the importance of authenticity in her personal and professional life. She emphasizes meaningful conversations that go beyond superficial interactions, focusing on deeper emotions and passions. Mary shares her experience of supporting her son’s football aspirations and the lessons learned from balancing personal and professional responsibilities. She highlights the impact of her book on readers’ lives and the importance of aligning with clients’ values and goals. Mary also touches on the concept of ikigai, a Japanese term for finding one’s purpose, and the significance of self-care and resilience in achieving personal fulfillment.

Quotes

· “I feel like I’m pretty much my authentic self, no matter where I am, no matter what role I am.”

· “You have to be patient with yourself, you have to be patient with the process, but you can get to where you want to go.”

· “If I can’t help this person, I will refer them to somebody else whom I trust.”

· “What I realized was that I needed to slow down to speed up.”

· “I’m on a mission to get everybody into the sweet spot of what is called ikigai—your reason for being.”

Takeaways

· Living authentically means showing up as your true self in all areas of life, both personally and professionally.

· Supporting others in following their passions sometimes requires letting go and trusting their journey, even when it’s challenging.

· Burnout can affect anyone, including coaches and leaders; recognizing it and prioritizing self-care is essential for long-term success.

· Making decisions from a place of integrity and alignment with core values leads to greater fulfillment and credibility.

· The Japanese concept of “ikigai”—the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for—can serve as a powerful guide for designing a meaningful life.

· Scenario planning and honest self-assessment help individuals and clients make choices that lead to genuine excitement and impact, not just financial rewards.

· Patience and consistent action, rather than quick fixes, are keys to personal and professional transformation.

Timeline

0:00 Guest Introduction and Authenticity

2:00 Adjusting Conversations for Family

4:00 Meaningful vs Superficial Conversations

6:00 Supporting a Child’s Passions

8:00 Book Reception and Feedback

10:00 Family, Travel, and Personal Excitement

12:00 Coaching Clients and Corporate Engagement

14:00 Sharing on LinkedIn and Networking

16:00 Burnout, Balance, and Self-care

18:00 (No direct segment; conversation continues on self-reflection and practices)

20:00 Daily Practices and Client Alignment

22:00 Integrity in Making Career Decisions

24:00 Saying No for Values and Fulfillment

26:00 Scenario Planning for Clients

28:00 Final Reflections and Closing Advice

30:00 Ikigai and Path to Fulfillment

Conclusion

Mitchell Levy and Mary Olson-Menzel come together for an inspiring exploration of what it truly means to lead with authenticity and align your life with your core values. Mary shares personal stories—like supporting her son’s dreams, navigating her own battle with burnout, and making the bold decision to walk away from lucrative but misaligned career opportunities—to illustrate how integrity and self-awareness shape lasting fulfillment. She introduces the empowering concept of ikigai and emphasizes the importance of self-care, scenario planning, and saying yes for the right reasons. This episode serves as an essential guide for leaders and individuals ready to pursue meaning over mere achievement, make values-driven choices, and create a balanced, purpose-filled path forward.

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/mary-olson-menzel-mvpexec

Book “What Lights You Up: Illuminate Your Path and Take the Next Big Step in Your Career”: https://a.co/d/0chj7Wt Website: https://mvpexec.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 heartfelt episode, Mitchell Levy reconnects with inner work strategist Anik Malenfant for an eye-opening conversation on values, alignment, and living one unified life. Anik supports soul-led women in recognizing patterns that hold them back, weaving together intuition, emotional awareness, nature, astronomy, family life, and deep self-reflection. Through stories about her daughter, her husband, and her past in finance, she reveals why values must be the foundation of everything—from family time and business decisions to policies, workflows, investments, and household routines. She explains how core values remain consistent whether she is parenting, supporting clients, or collaborating with her husband, a sound healer, while offering wisdom on emotional responsibility, productivity, employee empowerment, executive sustainability, and the powerful question that changed her life: “There has got to be more to life than this.” This episode is a grounded and inspiring look at what it means to live fully aligned and intentional every day.

Summary 

Anik Malenfant, an inner work strategist and founder of Mastering Ascension, supports soul-led women in feeling empowered and aligned. She explains how patterns show up in nature, astronomy, family life, and business, and why values must guide everything. Anik shares stories of her daughter keeping the family accountable to their commitments, her husband helping maintain structure, and the family bringing openness, communication, and emotional honesty into everyday life.

She reflects on past years in finance when she lived two separate lives and felt deeply disconnected. A moment of dread and clarity sparked a complete transformation, leading her toward holistic living, inner work, and a year-long transition into the life she now teaches. She also explores workplace culture, remote work, productivity, and helping leaders shift from squeezing output to cultivating environments for people to excel in their zone of genius. Anik also outlines her four-pillar framework that takes someone from values to strategic execution.

Quotes

* “I love to live what I do. The values I have at home must be the values I have in business.”

* “She kept us in integrity with our commitment to family time.”

* “Your emotional state tells you exactly where you are and what needs to change.”

* “I used to live with two different personalities. I didn’t realize the answer was to be the same me everywhere.”

* “People who love going to work and feel pride in what they do are naturally productive.”

* “Once I asked, ‘There has got to be more to life than this,’ everything shifted.”

* “My framework is values, intuitive discernment, energetic alignment, and strategic execution.”

Takeaways

* Values are only real when they are lived consistently at home, at work, and in every decision, not just written on a wall.

* Emotional awareness is a powerful navigational tool, revealing when something is out of alignment and what needs to change.

* People are naturally more productive and engaged when they work in their unique zone of genius rather than being forced into a one-size-fits-all all model.

* Leaders who focus only on squeezing more productivity miss the opportunity to design environments that support true creativity, ownership, and joy.

* Living two separate identities for work and home creates disconnection, exhaustion, and a sense that “something is missing.”

* Transformation often begins with a simple but honest question, like “Is there more to life than this?” and the willingness to listen to the answer.

* A more holistic, values-based approach to strategy can improve both the bottom line and the well-being of the humans behind the numbers.

* Having a clear framework from values to execution helps turn inner insight into consistent, aligned action.

Timeline

[0:00:05] Welcome Back and Introduction

[0:00:40] Reconnecting with Anik

[0:00:57] Who Is Anik Malenfant

[0:02:12] Living What You Do

[0:02:35] Motherhood and Family Values

[0:04:08] Lessons from Her Daughter

[0:05:43] Values and Integrity Across All Areas of Life

[0:06:57] How Her Husband Holds the Family Accountable

[0:08:10] Integrating Family into Her Business

[0:10:29] Bringing Inner Work into the Home

[0:11:14] Why Living Two Different Lives Doesn’t Work

[0:12:21] The Return to the Office Conversation

[0:14:27] True Productivity and Zones of Genius

[0:15:50] Strategic Execution and Leadership Challenges

[0:16:55] Employee Productivity vs. Employee Alignment

[0:18:39] Leaders’ Misconceptions and Overcompensation

[0:20:04] The Quality vs. Quantity Conversation

[0:20:37] Why Holistic Thinking Isn’t Taught

[0:21:46] Speaking to Leaders Through Their Lens

[0:22:31] Anik’s Transition from Finance to Inner Work

[0:23:04] The Question That Changed Everything

[0:26:12] When Success Doesn’t Equal Happiness

[0:26:53] How to Reach Anik

[0:27:19] Anik’s Four Pillar Framework

[0:28:39] Closing Exchange and Final Thoughts

Conclusion

Mitchell Levy and Anik Malenfant deliver a deeply moving and practical conversation on what it means to live in alignment with your values. Anik’s stories illustrate the power of accountability, emotional honesty, curiosity, and unity between personal and professional life. Her journey from finance to soul-led leadership demonstrates how transformation begins with one courageous question and a willingness to follow where it leads. Her insights into productivity, leadership, personal patterns, and strategic execution offer a refreshing shift from traditional corporate thinking. This episode is an inspiring reminder that values are not something we claim—they are something we live, at home, at work, and within ourselves.

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/anikmalenfant/

Website:

https://masteringascension.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 with Chrissy McGarry, COO of Second Front Systems, as we dive into what it really means for leaders to LIVE their values! From pioneering remote work in the defense tech industry to championing core values like mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor—Chrissy shares her unique journey from the beverage industry to national security, the evolution of a groundbreaking startup, and actionable insights for life and leadership. Whether you’re curious about breaking into new industries, building resilient teams, or leading with authenticity, this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and takeaways you won’t want to miss. Hit play and join us on this leadership masterclass!

Summary

Chrissy McGarry, COO of Second Front Systems, a national security software company, discusses the firm’s remote operations and its $40 million Series B funding led by NEA. Second Front Systems’ dev sec ops platform streamlines the accreditation process for commercial tech on government networks. The company, founded by three former Marines, has over 40 applications and 15,000 users. Chrissy emphasizes the importance of mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor as core values. She highlights the company’s virtual collaboration tools and annual on-sites for team building. Chrissy also shares her journey from the beverage industry to defense tech, advocating for career growth through curiosity and stepping outside comfort

Quotes

* “Persistence beats resistance, so you have to get back up and keep pressing onward, no matter the setbacks.”

* “Our core values—mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor—shape every aspect of how we work and grow.”

* “True growth happens outside your comfort zone, not by doing only what you already know.”

* “Even as a fully remote company, we’ve built strong collaboration and alignment as we scale toward $40 million Series B.”

* “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast—thoughtfully moving forward achieves more than rushing through tasks.”

Takeaways

* Leading with core values such as mission, curiosity, flexibility, and vigor helps build a strong company culture and fosters personal growth.

* It is possible for fully remote companies to thrive and stay aligned by using effective communication tools and organizing regular in-person team gatherings.

* Embracing change and pursuing opportunities outside your comfort zone can drive significant career and personal development.

* Persistence and adaptability are essential for overcoming challenges, especially in complex or rapidly changing industries.

* Having accountability partners and supportive relationships with colleagues and family makes it easier to navigate leadership challenges and achieve ongoing success.

Timeline

[0:00:00] Introduction

[0:01:37] Meet Chrissy

[0:03:02] Second Front Systems Overview

[0:04:57] Company History & Remote Culture

[0:07:49] Virtual Collaboration Mechanisms

[0:10:05] Core Values and Company Culture

[0:11:52] Aligning Personal and Company Values

[0:12:06] Deep Dive into Values

[0:20:37] Leadership Approach as COO

[0:22:25] Strengths and Growth Areas

[0:24:29] Accountability System

[0:26:24] Contact & Learn More

[0:28:16] Career Reflections and Advice

[0:30:34] Closing Remarks

Conclusion

Mitchell Levy and Chrissy McGarry delivered a powerful conversation on what it truly means to lead with authenticity, mission, and heart. Chrissy’s journey from the beverage industry to COO of a thriving defense tech company highlights the importance of embracing change, persistence, and building a values-driven culture—even in a fully remote world. Together, Mitchell and Chrissy offered actionable lessons and unforgettable insights that will empower leaders and professionals to pursue growth, foster connection, and confidently step outside their comfort zones.

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:

* Email Chrissy:: [email protected]

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckmcgarry/

* Instagram:

* Website:

https://sfstandard.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 lively and thoughtful episode, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy sits down with Jennifer McCollum, CEO and leadership author, to explore what it really means to lead with humanity, authenticity, and clarity. Together, they discuss how parenting mirrors leadership, why influence outweighs control, and how leaders can build cultures where people feel seen, valued, and motivated. Jennifer shares insights from her book, reflecting on connection, empathy, and the growing importance of clarity in today’s evolving workplace.

Summary

Mitchell Levy and Jennifer McCollum delve into the evolving definition of leadership—one rooted in empathy, authenticity, and clarity rather than authority or command. They compare lessons from parenting to leadership, emphasizing influence over control and the need to treat team members as whole people. Jennifer discusses creating environments of belonging and engagement, while Mitchell highlights that most executives lack clarity about their purpose and success metrics. Together, they underscore that great leaders listen deeply, communicate transparently, and align personal values with organizational goals to drive fulfillment and performance.

Quotes

* “Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about influence.” – Jennifer McCollum

* “As a parent or a CEO, you’re not telling people what to do; you’re guiding them toward growth.” – Mitchell Levy

* “Clarity is simple, but most leaders overlook it.” – Mitchell Levy

* “When we see our people as people first, engagement follows naturally.” – Jennifer McCollum

Takeaways

* Lead Through Influence, Not Authority: The best leaders inspire action through example and empathy, not command.

* Parenting Teaches Leadership: Understanding and guiding without control mirrors how effective leaders nurture their teams.

* Clarity Is a Core Competency: Executives must define success for themselves and their organizations to lead with confidence.

* See People as Whole Humans: Engagement grows when leaders connect with employees beyond their roles.

* Empathy and Presence Matter: Human-centered leadership builds trust, innovation, and long-term results.

Timeline

[00:00] Mitchell opens with enthusiasm and introduces Jennifer McCollum.

[02:00] Discussion on names, respect, and intentional connection.

[04:00] “Who are you?”—moving beyond titles to purpose and impact.

[07:00] Parenting as a leadership metaphor—learning influence over control.

[10:30] How feedback, empathy, and people-first thinking drive engagement.

[14:00] Virtual and hybrid workplaces—rethinking “off-site” and presence.

[18:00] Exploring Jennifer’s book and favorite chapter.

[20:00] The power of clarity—why 98% of executives struggle with it.

[23:00] Closing reflections on clarity, credibility, and human connection.

Conclusion

Mitchell Levy and Jennifer McCollum remind us that effective leadership begins with self-awareness and empathy. Leading through clarity, respect, and authenticity allows teams to flourish without control or fear. Their conversation bridges heart and strategy—showing that when leaders truly see their people, engagement, clarity, and purpose naturally follow.

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!

Leaders are not defined by titles—they’re defined by how well they know themselves. In this engaging conversation, Mitchell Levy and keynote speaker Paul Bramson explore how authenticity, feedback, and emotional intelligence shape effective leadership. From building a “personal board of advisors” to understanding the nuances of self-awareness, Paul shares how being open, reflective, and humble drives true personal and professional evolution. The discussion uncovers why finesse, joy, and integrity matter more than perfection, and how coachability remains the most powerful mark of credible leadership.

Summary

Mitchell Levy and Paul Bramson discuss the importance of leaders living their values. Paul shares his core values: authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health. He emphasizes the role of an advisory board in self-assessment and the significance of emotional intelligence. Paul recounts a learning experience where his advisor’s feedback led him to refine his presentation style. They also discuss the concept of happiness as a choice, agreeing that while happiness may vary by situation, joy is a personal choice. Paul values clients who are fully engaged and open to learning, and Mitchell highlights the importance of coachability and articulating one’s purpose.

Quotes

* “I always want to be evolving as a human.” – Paul Bramson

* “You can’t see yourself accurately without others’ feedback.” – Mitchell Levy

* “Freedom means making decisions that serve your happiness.” – Paul Bramson

* “When someone’s work becomes play, that’s when they’re living their values.” – Mitchell Levy

Takeaways

* Define Core Values: Identify and live by your own guiding principles; Paul’s include authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health.

* Seek Honest Feedback: A “personal board of advisors” helps leaders maintain accurate self-perception and accountability.

* Practice Finesse: Communicate truth with empathy and tact—smoothness often amplifies effectiveness.

* Stay Coachable: Openness to feedback, even when uncomfortable, strengthens credibility and leadership trust.

* Find Joy in Growth: True fulfillment comes when learning, purpose, and personal evolution align.

Timeline

[00:00] Mitchell introduces Paul and sets the stage for an authentic discussion on leadership values.[01:07] Paul defines himself—driven, evolving, and passionate about speaking and travel.[02:38] Discovering core values: Paul reflects on authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health.[05:22] The role of feedback and surrounding yourself with honest advisors.[08:15] Emotional intelligence and the challenge of self-awareness.[13:08] A humbling moment—learning from feedback and the importance of finesse.[16:47] Paul shares his goals for continued growth, learning, and inspiration.[18:21] The power of coachability in credible leadership.[23:29] Choosing ideal clients and the importance of being “all in.”[25:28] Discussing core values in others—integrity, optimism, and joy.[27:57] Is happiness a choice? Exploring joy, freedom, and decision-making as paths to fulfillment.[30:40] Closing thoughts on clarity, purpose, and spreading “cred dust.”

Conclusion

Through vulnerability, humor, and insight, Paul Bramson reminds us that leadership begins with self-awareness, sustained by humility and refined through honest reflection. Living one’s values means continuously evolving, staying open to growth, and finding joy in the pursuit of purpose.

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:

* Email Paul: [email protected]

* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbramsonofficial/

* Website:

https://paulbramson.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 a time when leadership is often reduced to tactics and trends, Dr. Alise Cortez reminds us that real leadership starts with humanity. A lifelong learner, organizational psychologist, and founder of Gusto Now, Alise helps leaders and organizations activate meaning, purpose, and compassion at work. Her philosophy is simple but radical—when people are seen, valued, and inspired, they show up with gusto. In this conversation with host Mitchell Levy, Alise explores what it means to lead with heart, the balance between compassion and discernment, and how tango and leadership share more in common than most think..

Summary:

In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, Mitchell Levy sits down with Dr. Alise Cortez to discuss the evolution of compassionate leadership in an AI-driven world. Alise shares lessons from her global life experiences, the creation of Gusto Now Academy, and how “living with gusto” means bringing humanity back into business. They unpack the dual forces of compassion and discernment, the tension between control and trust, and the personal revelations that shaped her as a leader and teacher.

Quotes:

“Work is noble. It’s how we move through the world.” – Dr. Alise Cortez

“Compassion is grace in action—it’s choosing to see people fully, even when it’s hard.” – Dr. Alise Cortez

“We’re doubling down on humanity while working alongside technology.” – Dr. Alise Cortez

Takeaways:

* Compassion and discernment are essential twin virtues of modern leadership.

* Leaders must evolve from command and control to curiosity and care.

* Purpose, mission, and values must be lived, not laminated.

* True leadership means knowing when to step aside and let others lead.

* Bringing humanity to work is not sentimental—it’s strategic.

Timestamp:

[00:00] Mitchell welcomes Dr. Alise Cortez [01:00] Alise shares her background as a lifelong learner and her “dancing with life” philosophy. [03:00] 2025 lessons: shifting from noise to delivering real value. [06:00] Discovering and understanding neurodiversity in herself and others. [10:00] Compassion’s role in leadership and cultural change. [14:00] Tango as a metaphor for balance, trust, and flow. [17:00] Building “gusto” cultures where purpose drives productivity. [21:00] Handling organizations that seek change but resist alignment. [24:00] Humanity and technology: leaders as organizational cardiologists. [27:00] Meaning, purpose, and Alise’s continued devotion to her mission.

Conclusion:

Dr. Elise Cortez reminds leaders that meaning and compassion are not luxuries—they’re the core of sustainable success. Through her philosophy of “living with gusto,” she challenges leaders to transform workplaces into communities of purpose, growth, and care. Leadership, she insists, begins and ends with humanity.

Links/Resources: Website:

https://gusto-now.com

Speaking Site:

https://elisecortez.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisecortez Learn more about Mitchell Levy:

https://MitchellLevy.com

Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us

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

In a world where perception often overshadows truth, the art of authenticity becomes both a challenge and a necessity. Fred Lee, an award-winning magician, hypnotist, and “meta thinking” expert, blends entertainment with education to help people understand how their minds shape reality. Through a background in psychology, military service, and stage performance, Fred shows that critical thinking, integrity, and curiosity can unlock limitless possibilities—not through illusion, but through clarity of thought.

At a time when we’re overwhelmed by information, distraction, and social influence, Fred reminds us that learning how to think about our thinking may be the most powerful skill of all.

Summary

Fred Lee is a former U.S. Army officer turned magician, hypnotist, and speaker who specializes in “meta thinking,” a practical approach derived from the concept of metacognition—thinking about thinking. Drawing from his experience in psychological operations, stage magic, and leadership, Fred helps audiences challenge assumptions, improve decision-making, and broaden their perspectives.

In this episode, he talks with Mitchell Levy about authenticity, integrity, and the importance of developing awareness in both personal and professional life. He discusses how magic taught him to value transparency and honesty, why the “mind-body connection” is real, and how authority bias shapes behavior. Fred’s approach bridges psychology, performance, and philosophy, offering a unique path to self-awareness and growth.

Quotes

“I like to be simple and direct. The biggest thing I’ve noticed with magic is that when people rely on effects or tricks, it kills the authenticity. I’d rather show people the real art behind it.”

“Meta thinking takes the blinders off your face—it helps you see the bigger picture and create win-win scenarios in life and work.”

“Integrity and authenticity go hand in hand. I don’t need to rely on tricks or illusions to connect with people. What I deliver is honest and real.”

“The mind-body connection isn’t just a hippie concept. Pain is subjective, and your brain can change how you experience reality.”

“Good men do exist. Consent, respect, and doing the right thing matter—in life and in business.”

Takeaways

* Authenticity builds credibility. In any field—magic, leadership, or business—authenticity earns trust. When you deliver exactly what you promise, people remember the experience, not the illusion.

* Meta thinking is a tool for clarity. It’s about stepping back from your situation to see the bigger picture, helping you identify habits, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.

* Pain and focus are mental phenomena. The brain can amplify or reduce discomfort depending on mindset. Awareness of this connection can improve both performance and well-being.

* Integrity prevents “gray areas.” Fred avoids questionable situations in both entertainment and business by always prioritizing respect, transparency, and consent.

* Authority bias controls more than we think. People often obey perceived authority figures without self-reflection. Fred encourages detaching ego from external influence and trusting your own reasoning.

* Coachability comes from curiosity. Staying teachable, willing to learn, and open to new ideas leads to growth. Every experience is a potential lesson if you approach it with curiosity.

Timeline

[00:00] Introduction – Fred Lee, meta thinking expert, magician, and former army officer [00:04] How the pandemic impacted his business and the move from live to virtual shows [00:06] The importance of authenticity and integrity in magic and business [00:08] Defining meta thinking – “taking the blinders off” and seeing the bigger picture [00:10] How meta thinking improves problem-solving and daily decision-making [00:14] The mind-body connection and why pain is subjective [00:18] How Fred separates hypnosis from therapy and avoids ethical gray areas [00:21] Standing firm on values and consent in entertainment and media [00:25] How curiosity and willingness to learn make a person truly coachable [00:28] Authority bias – why people follow authority without question [00:30] Final thoughts – focusing inward, detaching from ego, and thinking critically

Conclusion

Fred Lee shows that true mastery of the mind begins with awareness. Whether on stage performing illusions or teaching cognitive techniques, his mission is to empower people to see beyond surface appearances. Through meta thinking, we can better understand how we learn, react, and grow—and by pairing that with integrity and curiosity, we can live with greater authenticity.

In a world full of distraction and misinformation, Fred reminds us that thinking clearly and acting truthfully are not just intellectual skills—they’re acts of courage.

Links / Resources

Website: https://fredleemind.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fredleemind

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FredLeeMind

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

Financial success, business wins, or big titles aren’t what drive Eric Stopper; for him, devotion is the central theme—being fully present, aligning values, and mastering the things that matter most. A jiu-jitsu coach, podcaster, father, blacksmith, and entrepreneur, Eric has walked a winding path of self-discovery since 2019—one that’s taken him through existential questions, spiritual transformation, and even Ayahuasca ceremonies. Today, he shares how devotion fuels his life: from building a “billion-dollar” relationship with his kids, to teaching young athletes resilience on the mat, to shaping businesses built on integrity and service, while also opening up about leaving the Mormon church, choosing his values with intention, and embracing the beautiful chaos of fatherhood and entrepreneurship.

Summary:

Eric Stopper is a business owner, podcaster, jiu-jitsu coach, and father of two who defines himself less by titles and more by devotion. After a profound spiritual and existential journey, he distilled his core values into five guiding principles—wisdom, presence, integrity, gratitude, and self-mastery—and in this episode he shares how those values shape everything from his approach to business partnerships to parenting two young boys, including one with a traumatic brain injury. Eric discusses how teaching martial arts fuels his passion for encouraging others, how losing can be more instructive than winning, and why he believes devotion—not hustle—is the key to living fully.

Quotes:

* “Your devotion to something is a practice of being 100% present with it, eliminating distractions from your life.”

* “When I’m devoted to something, I feel a deep and profound sense of gratitude for it.

* “I’m trying to build a billion-dollar relationship with my kids.”

* “If you’re always winning, you’re not really developing. The character development begins when you lose.”

* “Don’t partner with your friends. Partner with someone you can argue with effectively and still move forward.”

Takeaways:

* Define your values intentionally – Eric used a “single-elimination” process to distill his values, ending with wisdom, presence, integrity, gratitude, and self-mastery.

* Devotion fuels everything – Whether it’s family, business, or hobbies, immerse yourself fully, practice presence, and eliminate distractions.

* Resilience comes from loss – Teach yourself and others to handle setbacks with grace; it’s where character crystallizes.

* Partnerships thrive on healthy conflict – Find business partners who complement your strengths and can argue productively.

* Fatherhood shapes leadership – Building intentional relationships with your children refines patience, presence, and self-mastery.

Timeline:

[00:21] Eric Stopper’s Journey of Self-Discovery

[00:32] Values and Devotion

[08:12] Parenting and Personal Growth

[09:47] Military Influence and Personal Style

[21:18] Entrepreneurial Journey and Business Challenges

[27:58] Exploring Metaphysical Questions

Conclusion:

Eric Stopper’s journey is a testament to the power of living by your values and leading with devotion. His story reminds us that fulfillment isn’t found in titles or achievements but in presence, service, and the impact we have on others. By aligning our actions with our deepest principles, embracing challenges as lessons, and showing up fully for the people and work that matter most, we can create a life of true mastery—one built not on hustle, but on intention and purpose.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://davinsalvagno.com/

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davinsalvagno/

Thieves of Purpose: Overcoming the 12 Mindsets Robbing You of Your Potential: https://www.amazon.com/Thieves-Purpose-Overcoming-Mindsets-Potential/dp/1684816785

Finding Purpose at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Purpose-Work-Davin-Salvagno/dp/109833373X

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

Criminal defense is one of the most high-stakes areas of law, where freedom, reputations, and futures hang in the balance. For many, facing charges feels like standing at the edge of a cliff, with uncertainty and fear pressing in from every side. Behind every case file is a person—someone fighting for a second chance, someone wrongly accused, or someone trying to rebuild after mistakes. It’s not just law, it’s life. And at the heart of this process are defense attorneys like Elena Ruiz, who bring not only legal expertise but compassion, patience, and courage to guide clients through. Real leadership in law isn’t about simply “winning” cases; it’s about standing up for justice and humanity, even when the path is difficult.

Summary:

In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, host Mitchell Levy speaks with Elena Ruiz, a criminal defense attorney who has built her career on integrity, empathy, and client-centered advocacy. Elena shares why she chose criminal law, what drives her to stand by clients even in the face of public criticism, and how she balances strong legal strategy with compassion. She discusses the emotional highs of helping clients achieve second chances, as well as the challenges of representing those who resist guidance. Elena’s story highlights how courage, humility, and authentic care shape trust in one of the most demanding areas of law.

Quotes:

* “I don’t just defend cases—I defend people’s futures.” – Elena Ruiz

* “Criminal defense isn’t about punishment; it’s about fairness and redemption.” – Elena Ruiz

* “Integrity is standing firm even when it’s inconvenient.” – Mitchell Levy

* “Leadership in law is courage mixed with compassion.” – Mitchell Levy

Takeaways:

* Defend People, Not Just Cases: True impact in criminal defense means seeing clients as more than their charges.

* Hold to Your Values: Integrity isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of credibility.

* Balance Strategy with Empathy: Boundaries and compassion go hand in hand.

* Justice Is Human: The law can’t replace humanity; real advocacy starts with understanding the person behind the case.

Timeline:

[00:00] Mitchell introduces Antonio with warmth and curiosity, highlighting his track record as an entrepreneur, author, and leadership coach.

[02:00] “Who are you?” – Antonio shares his core values of kindness, service, growth, collaboration, and excellence.

[04:00] Journaling for growth: how daily reflection builds self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

[06:30] Parenting lessons on kindness—how family values shape leadership style.

[08:00] “Shark in the tank”: Antonio explains his philosophy of constant learning and self-improvement.

[11:45] Contracts without chains: why his company avoids long-term lock-ins and sometimes turns clients away.

[15:00] Building credibility: how living your values consistently attracts trust and better partnerships.

[18:30] Practical tools for leaders—questions to ask yourself and your team each day.

[21:00] Collaboration over competition: how Antonio fosters growth and innovation within teams.

[25:00] Excellence without ego: lessons from decades of building and leading businesses.

[29:30] Final reflections—authenticity, service, and staying true to your values in leadership.

Why do so many family businesses struggle with conflict, succession, or toxic dynamics? How do leaders build organizations where values are lived, not just spoken? And how do you know when it’s time to step aside, or bring in help?

In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, host Mitchell Levy speaks with Liz Kislik, a management consultant and executive coach with more than 35 years of experience. Liz is one of Marshall Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches and is known for her deep work with family businesses and nonprofits. She combines sharp business insight with a focus on human growth, helping organizations thrive across generations. Her passion for curiosity, care, and accountability makes her uniquely qualified to guide leaders through conflict, toxic workplace dynamics, and leadership transitions.

Quotes:

* “I’m very interested in people who want to do better and want to change, not in people waiting for fairy dust.”

* “The first thing I always suggest is to be extremely curious and to look for explanations other than the one you’ve already settled on.”

* “Sometimes just asking is really illuminating.”

* “If you build the relationships strongly enough, even when generations change, they’ll want to keep you.”

* “It’s much better to learn where you need to supplement a colleague than to bang your head against a wall for years.”

Takeaways:

* Lead with curiosity before making assumptions about people or problems.

* Create work environments where employees find joy and meaning, not just a paycheck.

* Learn to reset and restore your energy through practices outside of work.

* Know your limits as a leader or consultant, and bring in outside expertise when needed.

Timeline:

[00:03] Introduction of Liz Kislik

[06:13] Addressing family feuds in business

[08:07] Understanding toxicity in the workplace

[10:26] The fear of asking tough questions

[12:35] Finding joy in work

[15:45] Reset and restoration

[18:32] Building 30-year client relationships

[22:40] Navigating leadership succession

[26:39] The role of curiosity in leadership

[28:13] Knowing your limits as a consultant

Conclusion:

Liz Kislik shows that leadership is not about quick fixes or magic solutions. It’s about curiosity, courage, and care. By asking the right questions, knowing your limits, and focusing on both business and human growth, leaders can create organizations where values are lived every day. Whether you’re leading a family business, managing toxic dynamics, or planning for succession, Liz’s insights offer practical steps to build stronger relationships and more resilient organizations. This episode is a reminder that when leaders stay curious and intentional, they not only solve problems but also create lasting impact.

Links/Resources:

* Email Sergio: [email protected]

* Learn more about Mitchell Levy:

https://MitchellLevy.com

* Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us

* Liz Kislik’s website: lizkislik.com

* Free ebook on conflict management (available on her website)

* Liz’s TEDx Talk on the structural aspects of conflict (available on her site)