Dr. Mitchell Levy Presents

What does it take to lead with authenticity when life throws challenges your way? How do you stay grounded in values while navigating family, leadership, and service at the highest levels?

Summary

In this episode, host Mitchell Levy sits down with Bob Fabian “BZ” Zinga, a US Navy Commander, husband, father, and servant leader. BZ shares how faith, family, and service shape his life and leadership, and why he believes in elevating others through mentorship, education, and values-driven living. With decades of experience spanning the Navy, Silicon Valley, and leadership development, BZ brings a unique perspective on resilience, servant leadership, and purpose.

Quotes

* “If you give me one year of your life in a mastermind, your life will be completely different a year from now.”

* “Education is something nobody can ever take away from you. Once you learn it, it’s yours for life.”

* “Leadership is about synergy. You cannot do much with just yourself if you want to do great things.”

Takeaways

* Define your identity through values, not circumstances.

* Use “the other eight hours” for intentional growth in skills and leadership.

* Treat internal colleagues as customers and serve them with purpose.

* Support your children in finding their unique calling rather than imposing your expectations.

Timeline

Bob Fabian Zinger's Introduction and Personal Values (0:03)

Balancing Family and Professional Life (3:26)

Developing Leadership and Personal Growth (4:01)

Bob's Expertise and Areas of Focus (9:43)

Navigating Generational Differences (19:56)

Bob's Role as an Information Warfare Commanding Officer (20:43)

Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations (27:38)

Links Mentioned

Connect with Bob Fabian Zinga on LinkedIn: [Bob Fabian Zinga](https://www.linkedin.com)

Conclusion

This conversation with Bob Fabian Zinga shows how values, faith, and servant leadership can shape every area of life. From raising children with empathy to leading in the Navy and corporate world, BZ demonstrates that true success is about impact, not titles or money. His story is a reminder to stay grounded in purpose, invest in continuous learning, and serve others in every role you hold.

Burnout, anxiety, and stress are realities for so many professionals today. The pressure to perform, the endless distractions, and the belief that rest is a luxury often lead us to ignore our own well-being. But what if the answer isn’t in working harder but in slowing down? Mindfulness offers a path back to balance, clarity, and humanity. For Max Schneider, this realization came after years in consulting, where his passion and intensity eventually led him to a breaking point. Instead of ignoring the signs, he chose to transform his life and now helps others do the same through retreats and mindfulness practices.

Summary: In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, host Mitchell Levy speaks with Max Schneider, founder of Sand and Salt Escapes, who shares his journey from corporate burnout to building a life centered on mindfulness, balance, and authentic success. Max discusses how hitting rock bottom forced him to question his definition of achievement, the power of presence in everyday life, and why rest is not weakness but strength. He also shares how he created mindfulness retreats in Costa Rica and corporate off-sites that bring humanity back into the workplace.

Quotes: • “The harder you work, the harder you need to rest.” – Max Schneider • “Mindfulness isn’t about escaping life—it’s about being present in it.” – Max Schneider • “Success isn’t what the world tells you it is; it’s what you define for yourself.” – Max Schneider • “Burnout isn’t a failure—it’s a sign your system needs a reboot.” – Max Schneider

Takeaways: • Rest Is Essential: True intensity requires equal recovery. • Presence Over Distraction: Growth happens in the stillness, not the noise. • Redefine Success: Let go of external measures and discover your own. • Balance Brings Impact: Leaders who slow down show up stronger for others.

Timeline: [00:00] Mitchell welcomes Max, who shares his passion and positive mindset. [04:00] An ankle injury becomes a real-life test of “Why is this happening for me?” [09:30] Presence vs. distraction—why boredom is where growth begins. [13:00] Daily practices: meditation, somatic work, phoneless walks, and breathwork. [17:00] Burnout in consulting: anxiety attacks, shingles, and the breaking point. [22:00] Redefining success and releasing societal expectations. [26:00] The emotional release of leaving corporate life behind. [30:00] Founding Sand and Salt Escapes: retreats in Costa Rica. [35:00] Corporate evolution: bringing mindfulness into executive off-sites. [41:00] Why balance matters for everyone—and how to start. [46:00] Final reflections: humanity, authenticity, and the power of slowing down.

Conclusion: Max Schneider’s story is a reminder that mindfulness is more than meditation—it’s a way of living that helps us reclaim balance, presence, and authenticity. By redefining success and prioritizing rest, he demonstrates that leadership isn’t about titles or overwork, but about showing up as a whole human being. His retreats and corporate programs prove that when we bring humanity back into the workplace and our daily lives, the impact is lasting.

Links/Resources: • Learn more about Sand and Salt Escapes: sandandsaltescapes.com • Contact Max directly: [email protected] • Learn more about Mitchell Levy: MitchellLevy.com • Book time with Mitchell: Contact Page

Credibility Nation: • Website: MitchellLevy.com • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy • YouTube: Credibility Nation • Facebook: Credibility Nation • Community: Superheroes

Immigration is one of the most life-changing journeys a person can face, filled with stress, uncertainty, and hope. For many, the process feels overwhelming, with rules and requirements that can shape or shatter their future. Behind every form and legal step is a human story, a family trying to stay together, a professional pursuing opportunity, or someone seeking safety and freedom. It’s not just law, it’s life. And at the heart of this process are lawyers like Sergio Athanaso, who bring not only expertise but compassion, patience, and credibility to guide clients through. Real leadership in law isn’t about winning cases, it’s about serving people, even when the path is difficult.

Summary:

In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, host Mitchell Levy speaks with Sergio Athanaso, an immigration lawyer who has built his career on integrity, empathy, and servant leadership. Sergio shares why he chose immigration law, what drives him to keep serving clients even in challenging situations, and how he balances boundaries with compassion. He discusses the emotional highs of helping clients achieve life-changing victories, as well as the struggles of working with those who resist guidance. Sergio’s story highlights how credibility, humility, and authentic care shape trust in one of the most critical areas of law.

Quotes:

* “I don’t just like what I do—I love what I do.” – Sergio Athanaso

* “Immigration is about people. It’s about serving them in one of the most important moments of their lives.” – Sergio Athanaso

* “The definition of credibility is the quality in which you’re trusted, known, and liked.” – Mitchell Levy

* “When your work becomes play, that’s when you know you’re living your purpose.” – Mitchell Levy

Takeaways:

* Redefine Work as Play: When passion meets service, work becomes joyful and fulfilling instead of draining.

* Choose Clients Wisely: Boundaries and fit matter as much as compassion; not every client is the right client.

* Credibility Builds Trust: Being trusted, known, and liked is the foundation of success in immigration law and leadership.

* Technology vs. Humanity: AI may streamline processes, but empathy and human connection remain irreplaceable in law.

Timeline:

[00:00] Mitchell introduces Sergio with humor and curiosity, setting the stage for a values-driven conversation. [02:00] “Who are you?” – Sergio describes his energy, positivity, and how people enjoy being around him. [04:00] Loving the work: Sergio reflects on how law, once an obligation, became a passion. [06:30] Why immigration law? The importance of serving people and changing lives. [08:00] A client success story that brought deep fulfillment and lasting impact. [11:45] When things don’t go as planned—clients who resist advice and lessons learned. [15:00] Boundaries and fit: How Sergio balances compassion with discernment. [18:30] Work and play: Mitchell reframes Sergio’s “overworking” as passion-driven play. [21:00] Credibility in law: trust, being known, and being liked as the keys to client success. [25:00] Long-term goals and the evolving role of AI in legal practice. [29:46] Final reflections: credibility, humility, and showing up authentically in service of others.

Conclusion:

Immigration law is about more than paperwork—it’s about people, families, and futures. Sergio Athanaso’s journey shows that true credibility in law comes from compassion, servant leadership, and living one’s values. By reframing work as play and focusing on trust, authenticity, and integrity, he demonstrates how leaders can create long-term impact in one of the most human-centered areas of law.

Links/Resources:

* Email Sergio: [email protected]

* Learn more about Mitchell Levy:

https://MitchellLevy.com

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

Introduction

Welcome to Leaders Living Their Values, where we go beyond the surface to explore how today’s changemakers lead with heart, alignment, and authenticity. In this episode, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy is joined by Jeremy Lessaris, a purpose-driven entrepreneur who has started nearly 50 ventures. Together, they explore how leaders can stop surviving and start designing lives they actually want to live while still building successful businesses that serve communities and leave legacies.

Summary

What happens when a survivalist entrepreneur finally burns out? Jeremy Lessaris shares his evolution from hustle-at-all-costs to living a deeply intentional and purpose-driven life. This episode explores lifestyle design, impact entrepreneurship, and how Jeremy’s failures served as the best mentors he ever had. If you’ve ever felt trapped in your business, this conversation will help you break free and build something that feels as good as it performs.

Quotes

“When it was all about money, every company was a failure. Purpose changed everything.”

“You don’t find your passion by thinking you find it by doing.”

“Design your life first. Then build the business that fits inside it.”

Takeaways

Build from Lifestyle, Not Pressure: Decide how you want to live before deciding what to build.

Failure Is a Teacher: Jeremy’s 40+ failed ventures taught him more than any success ever could.

Start Now, Not Perfect: Don’t wait for clarity—take action, feel it out, and adjust as you go.

Invest in People: Relationships, mentorship, and collaboration are more valuable than ideas alone.

Timeline

Jeremy's Background and Transition from Survivalist to Lifestyle Designer (0:03)

Reflecting on Past Experiences and Regrets (2:36)

Serving Others and Community Focus (5:26)

Impact on Community and Social Entrepreneurship (7:37)

Challenges and Lessons from Entrepreneurial Journey (15:53)

Balancing Passion and Profit (20:35)

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (22:45)

Connecting with Jeremy and Future Plans (25:15)

Conclusion

Jeremy Lessaris challenges the hustle culture by offering a more human alternative: build from who you are, not just what the market wants. This episode is your permission slip to realign, reset, and rebuild this time with purpose at the center. Whether you’re in the startup trenches or reflecting after an exit, Jeremy’s story will help you reimagine leadership that nourishes you as much as it serves others.

In this new episode, blue-collar entrepreneur Ken Rusk shares his remarkable journey from digging ditches to building a successful construction company with over 200 employees. Ken discusses his unique approach to business, leadership, and personal development, emphasizing the power of vision, goal-setting, and empowering employees to achieve their dreams.

Summary:

We discuss Ken's philosophy of helping employees create clear, actionable life goals beyond just earning a paycheck. Key topics include breaking the stigma around blue-collar work, the importance of moving from a "someday" mindset to a "two-day" approach, and creating a workplace culture that prioritizes individual growth. You will gain insights into effective leadership, personal motivation, and strategies for setting and achieving meaningful goals. Ken's approach focuses on understanding employees' full potential, helping them visualize their future, and creating a supportive environment where personal and professional success can flourish. His methods demonstrate how businesses can thrive by investing in their employees' holistic development and aspirations.

Quotes:

* "I can't get what I want for myself, nor can my company get what it wants or needs until everyone within it gets what they want first."

* "Life is either going to happen to you or you're going to choose to happen to life."

* "Without a path, all you've got is dreams, hopes, and wishes. If you use the word someday in this building, people cringe."

Key Takeaways:

* Empower Employees: Focus on helping employees achieve their personal goals, which in turn drives company success. When employees' goals align with company goals, extraordinary growth can happen.

* Vision is Critical: Encourage people to look beyond immediate needs and develop long-term vision. Help them create specific, actionable paths to their goals.

* Blue-Collar Success: Challenge the stigma against blue-collar workers. Many skilled trades professionals can build highly successful businesses and careers.

* Proactive vs. Reactive Mindset: Move from a "someday" mentality to a "two-day" approach - taking immediate action towards goals instead of just dreaming.

* Holistic Employee Approach: Look at employees as whole people, not just workers. Understand their personal aspirations, motivations, and life goals.

Timeline:

[0:29] Ken Rusk's Journey and Philosophy

[4:48] The Role of Vision and Coaching

[11:40] The Power of Visualization and Goal Setting

[15:45] Creating a Proactive Work Environment

[24:50] The Two-Day Club vs. the Someday Club

[27:37] Creating a Motivated and Productive Workforce

Conclusion:

Ken Rusk's journey as a blue-collar entrepreneur reveals a powerful philosophy of personal and professional growth centered on vision, empowerment, and goal-setting. By challenging the stigma against blue-collar workers and creating a workplace culture that prioritizes individual aspirations, Rusk has built a successful construction company with over 200 employees who are motivated to achieve their dreams. His approach of helping employees visualize their future, create specific pathways to their goals, and feel in control of their lives has not only driven company success but also transformed how people think about work and personal development. Rusk's message is clear: by shifting from a "someday" mindset to a "two-day" action-oriented approach, individuals can break free from reactive living and create the life they truly want, one goal at a time.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://www.kenrusk.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KenRuskOfficial

Twitter: https://x.com/KenRuskOfficial

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-rusk-2656a7175/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenrusk.official

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

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

Introduction In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy interviews Jeff Burningham, serial entrepreneur, former gubernatorial candidate, professor, and author of the upcoming book The Last Book Written by a Human. Jeff discusses his journey from building billion-dollar companies to running for governor, and how losing that race during the pandemic gave him the space and time to rediscover his humanity, values, and purpose in the age of AI.

Summary Jeff Burningham reflects on his transition from a high-achieving entrepreneur and political candidate to an introspective author advocating for deeper human connection and consciousness. After losing his run for governor during the pandemic, Jeff gained the time and perspective to confront the "programming" of his life and reconnect with his authentic self. In this conversation, he explores how love, especially from his wife Sally, shaped his transformation, and he challenges listeners to reframe their definition of success. Emphasizing the importance of embracing AI as a mirror for humanity rather than a threat, Jeff encourages a renaissance of consciousness and collective evolution driven by presence, vulnerability, and love.

Quotes "There’s only a cold, howling wind at the top of our little mountains of success." - Jeff Burningham "Real awakening happens when we stop looking externally and start looking internally." - Jeff Burningham "Karma is the currency, authenticity is the motivation, and love is the reason." - Jeff Burningham Takeaways

* Lead with love, not fear. Unconditional love is a powerful force that grounds, strengthens, and transforms, be the person who gives it freely.

* Stillness creates breakthroughs. Sometimes, life forces a pause so we can rediscover who we really are. Don’t resist the stillness, it’s where clarity is born.

* Let AI remind us of our humanity. Instead of fearing technology, let it be a mirror that challenges us to be more present, compassionate, and awake.

* True power comes from presence. The world doesn’t need more performers, it needs more people who are fully present, intentional, and real.

* You are already enough. Stop chasing the next achievement hoping it will finally fulfill you. The answers you seek are within, right now, as you are.

* A new era of leadership is rising. The future belongs to those who lead with authenticity, purpose, and love. Step up. The world is waiting.

Timeline Jeff Burningham's Background and Introduction (0:03) The Role of Unconditional Love in Jeff's Life (2:46) Abundance vs. Scarcity Mentality (5:18) The Purpose of AI and Jeff's Awakening (8:28) Jeff's Political Campaign and Personal Growth (19:53) The Role of Leaders in Society (22:38) Jeff's Book and Its Impact (24:18) Jeff's Personal Reflections and Future Plans (24:45) Connecting with Jeff Burningham (28:42)

Conclusion Jeff Burningham’s journey is not just about professional accomplishments or political aspirations; it’s about rediscovering humanity in a world obsessed with performance and progress. Through the lens of AI, leadership, and personal transformation, he challenges listeners to live more consciously, love more deeply, and be more present. His vulnerability and vision serve as a roadmap for others seeking a more meaningful and grounded path forward. Links/Resources:

Website: https://www.jeffburningham.com/

Book: "The Last Book Written by a Human"

Social Media: @JeffBurningham (LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram)

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 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!

Toxic workplaces don’t always show up with yelling or obvious drama—sometimes it’s the subtle stuff, like favoritism, lack of trust, or leaders who only look out for themselves. Over time, that kind of environment wears people down, making them dread showing up even if they once loved the work. The worst part is watching good ideas and team spirit get crushed under office politics. It’s hard not to wonder what could be possible if people actually felt safe, supported, and valued at work.

Summary:

Laith Murad offers compelling insights on the evolution of customer-centric marketing, highlighting the need for brands to go beyond transactional thinking and foster emotional connections. Drawing from his experience with iconic companies like Nike and Yahoo, he emphasized that understanding the “why” behind customer behavior is crucial to building long-term loyalty. Laith discusses the power of authentic storytelling, experiential marketing, and personalized engagement strategies that resonate on a human level. His approach centers on turning customers into brand advocates by prioritizing their values, needs, and lived experiences over traditional product-driven campaigns.

Quotes:

* "Nothing is more important than this very moment. Nothing is more important than you and I having this conversation."

* "There's very little bad news in the world. There are things that rub us the wrong way, things that are disappointing. But I've tried to channel these—some of these experiences, most of these experiences—into growth."

* "It's impossible not to grow, develop, find fulfillment, and be more connected to your team when you take your focus off yourself and place it on everyone around you."

Takeaways:

* Commit to a daily practice that builds personal discipline which helps create positive habits across all life areas.

* Evaluate your leadership style: Are you creating fear or genuine respect? Ask your team how they describe you when they go home.

* Shift your focus from personal success to team success by genuinely investing time and energy in others' growth and development.

* Challenge yourself to be consistent in your principles across work and personal life, not just during business hours.

* Start tracking relationships: Count how many former team members you still connect with as a measure of your true leadership impact.

Timeline:

[00:05] Life, Work, and Being Human

[02:53] Leaving Corporate to Help Leaders Lead Better

[03:35] Why Fitness Became a Daily Non-Negotiable

[09:12] How Kyle Turned from Tough Boss to True Leader

[16:05] What Happens When You Actually Live Your Values

[21:14] Leading with Heart for Growth That Sticks

[23:02] Redefining Success Beyond the Job Title

[26:50] Where to Find and Connect with Kyle

[31:06] Living What You Say You Believe

Conclusion:

Real leadership is less about authority and more about helping others grow. When leaders focus on the team's success rather than their own status, trust builds and stronger results follow. Shifting from a top-down mindset to a more collaborative approach takes patience, clarity, and care. But when done well, it creates a workplace where people feel valued and motivated. In the end, the best outcomes come from working together—not from standing alone at the top.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://kylemcdowellinc.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KyleMcDowellInc/

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

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

So much of today’s marketing feels cold—automated messages, generic ads, endless funnels that all sound the same. It’s like companies are more focused on clicks than conversations, chasing short-term wins over real loyalty. People notice when they’re being treated like a data point, and they tune out fast. The brands that actually stick are the ones that speak like humans, not sales machines, and make you feel like you actually matter.

Summary:

Laith Murad offers compelling insights on the evolution of customer-centric marketing, highlighting the need for brands to go beyond transactional thinking and foster emotional connections. Drawing from his experience with iconic companies like Nike and Yahoo, he emphasized that understanding the “why” behind customer behavior is crucial to building long-term loyalty. Laith discusses the power of authentic storytelling, experiential marketing, and personalized engagement strategies that resonate on a human level. His approach centers on turning customers into brand advocates by prioritizing their values, needs, and lived experiences over traditional product-driven campaigns.

Quotes:

* "If the customer is your true north, you'll always be right in the end. It may not look like it in the short term, but in the end, you will always be right."

* "Everyone wants to do the same thing. How do you break through? You’ve got to change the conversation. You’ve got to change the direction."

* "You have to be passionate about what you're doing. You have to actually have the conviction to believe that it will work."

Takeaways:

* Map out your customer's emotional journey, not just their transactions. Ask yourself: What deeper need does my product truly solve?

* Craft marketing messages that tell a story about how customers will feel, not just what your product does technically.

* Build internal focus groups by asking team members across departments to review marketing concepts and share honest feedback.

* Practice genuine appreciation in customer communication - send messages without expecting an immediate sale in return.

* Limit your business priorities to 3 core focus areas and execute those exceptionally well, rather than spreading resources thin.

Timeline:

[00:29] Why Customer Obsession Beats Flashy Marketing

[01:59] Why Joy Still Matters

[06:30] Stop Faking Gratitude in Customer Emails

[09:24] What Most Brands Miss About Real Connection

[15:15] Making Every Team Member Part of the Story

[16:03] How Top Marketers Keep Customers Hooked

[19:42] Why Short Wins Can Ruin Long-Term Brand Trust

[20:26] Staying Sharp as Tech and Buyers Keep Shifting

[24:40] Thoughtful Details That Make Customers Stay

[25:48] Final Thoughts

Conclusion:

Putting customers at the center of a business isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for lasting success. Strong brands are built by listening closely, understanding what truly matters to people, and creating real connections through clear, thoughtful communication. Marketing that speaks to emotion and shared values will always go further than a list of features. Long-term growth depends on trust, consistency, and the courage to stand behind what you believe in. When companies focus on people, not just profit, the results follow naturally.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://sweet.io/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laith-murad/

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

There’s a weird kind of tension that builds when you know you’re capable of more, but things just aren’t clicking the way they should. You watch other people hit milestones, make moves, and part of you feels inspired—while another part feels left behind. It’s not always about talent or effort; sometimes it’s just timing, access, or mindset that shifts things. But that gap between who you are and who you could be can get heavy, especially when you’re not sure what’s missing.

Summary:

Brian Barraza is a pro runner and designer based in Boulder, balancing elite competition with creative work. He’s got degrees in sports and design, and he’s all about pushing limits—physically and personally. Today, he talks about how running has taught him discipline, vulnerability, and the value of support systems. His focus isn’t just on performance but on creating space where people can grow and feel seen. It’s a mix of grit, reflection, and genuine connection.

Quotes:

* "The true meaning of toughness is not about grit and bearing down. That’s not sustainable. You perform best when you identify sources of tension and relax them."

* "Running points to something for me. Running has always been the space where I can meet myself and gain deeper knowledge of who I am through experience."

* "Excellence becomes the expectation, and expectation erodes inspiration. It changes the way you relate to these things."

Takeaways:

* Create accountability structures that reduce mental friction and make desired actions automatic.

* Practice "zooming in and out" when facing challenges - examine both microscopic details and broader context to maintain perspective.

* Start a multi-purpose journaling system tracking different life areas (daily recap, training, personal growth, professional work).

* Ask yourself deeper "why" questions when pursuing goals, pushing beyond surface-level motivations.

* Build social networks that challenge you to maintain high performance standards while supporting personal growth.

Timeline:

[00:03] Brian Barraza Talks Running and Creative Work

[02:20] How Brian Builds Real Trust with People

[05:57] Inside the Daily Life of a Pro Runner

[11:52] Staying Grounded While Chasing Big Goals

[19:58] What Toughness Really Means in Coaching

[25:21] Books and Tools That Help Brian Stay Centered

[28:12] Where to Find Brian and His Creative Work

Conclusion:

Achieving true professional excellence means building a clear structure, staying accountable, and understanding what truly drives you—not just chasing titles or status. It's less about working nonstop and more about setting up systems that support steady progress without constant stress. When you take time to reflect, face your doubts honestly, and step back to see the bigger picture, you gain the tools to turn setbacks into growth. This kind of thoughtful approach helps you work smarter, not harder. Over time, it leads to real progress that feels both sustainable and personal.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://www.ink-and-echoes.com/

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

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

https://www.instagram.com/brazzledazzle5k/

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

There’s this unspoken trade-off a lot of entrepreneurs make—more growth means less time, less sleep, less presence at home. You convince yourself it’s temporary, that the hustle now will pay off later, but “later” keeps moving further out. The business gets your best hours while your body, your relationships, and your peace take the hit. It’s not that the work doesn’t matter, but it starts to sting when you realize what you’re missing in the meantime.

Summary:

Dena Patton is a veteran business coach who helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs grow without burning out. She blends mindset work with strategy, rooted in her values and personal experience as a mom, speaker, and author. Today, she shares why CEO self-care isn’t optional—it’s essential for creativity, health, and long-term success. She also reflects on her daughter’s early steps into entrepreneurship and the power of leading with purpose. Her message: build with intention, not exhaustion.

Quotes:

* "Authenticity is our biggest currency. Choose a color that is authentic to you, you own it, and it works. It's a little glimpse into who I am."

* "Self-care is one of those things that I don't think a lot of CEOs or business owners take seriously until one of the three Ds happens: divorce, disease, or death."

* "It's so easy for people to overload, overwhelm, overpack their house and their schedule, and then they're like, I have so much anxiety, or I'm totally overwhelmed. I find that you cannot build a business, you cannot build a dream when your creativity is zero. And you know what creativity takes? Space."

Takeaways:

* Create a personal "CEO self-care plan" that intentionally schedules time for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual recharging.

* Map out a full year of family vacations in advance, working around school calendars to ensure consistent family connection and personal renewal.

* Start a side business or help a family member launch a small venture to teach practical skills like financial literacy, pricing, and customer service.

* Audit your current commitments and schedule, ruthlessly removing activities that don't spark joy or contribute to your core vision and values.

* Establish clear personal and professional boundaries that protect your health, family relationships, and long-term business sustainability.

Timeline:

[00:25] How Dena Patton Brings Purpose into Her Work

[04:14] Lessons from Her Daughter’s Granola Startup

[08:53] When Dena’s Husband Retired and Life Shifted

[19:58] The CEO Self-Care Most Leaders Ignore

[20:32] Why Planning Vacations Helps CEOs Thrive

[25:11] How Values Guide Dena’s Business Decisions

[30:11] What Most Leaders Miss About Staying True

Conclusion:

Real success in entrepreneurship goes beyond constant hustle. It comes from making space for creativity, rest, and time with the people and values that matter most. A thriving business should support your overall well-being—not just your bank account. When you set firm boundaries, prioritize your health, and stay true to what you believe in, you build something that lasts. The goal isn't just to grow, but to grow in a way that feels right and keeps you grounded.

Links/Resources:

Website:

https://denapatton.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DenaTrakesPatton/

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

The Greatness Game: Inspired ways to live, love, and lead like you mean: https://www.amazon.com/Greatness-Game-Inspired-ways-live-ebook/dp/B06Y4B4FWB

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