Engineer Your Success

Can words really shape our reality? Dr. James Bryant shares an emotional childhood lesson that transformed his approach to success.

In episode 167,  Dr. James Bryant shares a  moment from his youth that taught him the incredible power of words. Through a personal chess match story, he illustrates how our self-talk can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, influencing our performance and outcomes. Dr. James offers practical strategies for harnessing the power of positive affirmations and visualization, demonstrating how these techniques can lead to success in both professional and personal life.

[00:00 - 03:03] Words as Weapons 

• Exploring the true impact of words on our psyche

• The misconception of "sticks and stones" in emotional resilience

• How self-talk shapes our reality and performance

[03:04 - 07:06] Storytime: Chess Lesson

• The power of negative self-prophecy in a crucial moment

• Analyzing the impact of verbalized fears on performance

• Recognizing patterns of self-sabotage in high-pressure situations

[07:07 - 08:10] 3 Strategies for Positive Self-Talk

• Techniques for transforming doubt into determination

• The role of positive affirmations in mental preparation

• Harnessing visualization as a tool for success

[08:11 - 11:21] Applying Chess Lessons to Life

• Real-world application of positive self-talk in parenting

• The ripple effect of changed mindset on academic performance

• Reinforcing the power of words in shaping outcomes

Key Quotes: 

"By focusing on the negative outcomes, you condition yourself to look for evidence to confirm your bias towards that outcome." - Dr. James Bryant

"Your words have power. They shape your expectations, influence your actions, and ultimately play a role in determining your outcomes." - Dr. James Bryant

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

Are you ready to transform your approach to problem-solving and decision-making? Discover how the "Five C's of Strategic Thinking" can revolutionize your professional and personal life.

In episode 166, Dr. James Bryant dives deep into the crucial difference between tactical and strategic thinking, introducing a powerful framework designed to help listeners achieve more wins at work and at home. Dr. James breaks down his innovative "Five C's of Strategic Thinking" approach, offering practical insights and actionable steps for implementing this framework in various scenarios. Listeners will gain valuable tools to clarify challenges, collect context, create choices, choose the best course of action, and commit to change.

[00:00 - 02:23] Setting the Stage: The Chess Master's Mindset

• Understanding the importance of visualization in strategic thinking
• How chess principles apply to professional challenges
• The value of resilience in navigating complex situations

[02:24 - 04:48] Tactical vs. Strategic: Navigating the Big Picture

• Distinguishing between tactical and strategic approaches
• The analogy of architect (strategic) vs. builder (tactical)
• Balancing both thinking styles for optimal success

[04:49 - 07:07] The Five C's Unveiled: A Blueprint for Success

• Detailed explanation of each step: Clarify, Collect, Create, Choose, Commit
• Practical questions to guide each stage of the process
• How to apply the framework to real-world scenarios

[07:08 - 11:17] From Theory to Practice: Implementing the Five C's

• Recap of the framework and its potential impact
• Challenge to listeners: Apply the Five C's to a current problem
• Importance of consistent zooming in and out for perspective

Key Quotes:

"Strategic thinking is like being the architect of your business or career. You're focusing on the overall design and long-term vision." - Dr. James Bryant

"Remember, strategic thinking is not just about planning for the future, it's about creating it." - Dr. James Bryant

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

Could the strategy behind a checkmate hold the key to your professional breakthrough?

Dr. James Bryant takes you on a journey back to his days as a young chess player in North Philadelphia. He shares how the lessons learned from intense chess matches have become the cornerstone of his approach to engineering success, both for himself and his clients. Dr. James reveals three powerful leadership lessons - visualization, strategic thinking, and resilience - that you can apply immediately to any challenge you’re facing. Whether you're an engineer tackling a complex project, a manager leading a team through uncertain times, or someone looking to level up, this episode offers invaluable insights on how to checkmate your challenges and engineer your success.

[00:00 - 06:10] A Chess Master's Origin Story

• Chess as a metaphor for navigating career challenges
• Dr. Jame’s journey into the world of competitive chess
• The pivotal moment: visualizing victory on an imaginary chessboard

[06:11 - 07:43] Mastering the Art of Mental Rehearsal

• Translating chess strategies into professional success
• Visualization as a cornerstone of effective leadership
• Overcoming obstacles through mental preparation and foresight

[07:44 - 09:37] Thinking Five Moves Ahead

• Applying chess-like strategic thinking to business decisions
• Understanding the ripple effect of choices in professional life
• Balancing short-term tactics with long-term strategic vision

[09:38 - 12:30] Keeping Cool in Check: The Power of Pressure Resilience

• Strategies for maintaining composure in high-stakes situations
• Introducing the Engineer's Blueprint for Success
• A four-step process for conquering professional challenges

[12:31 - 14:33] Your Move: Applying Chess Wisdom to Real-World Challenges

• Transforming current problems into strategic opportunities
• The crucial importance of taking action in personal growth
• A sneak peek into next week's deep dive on strategic thinking

Key Quotes:

"Strategic thinking forces you to look ahead, consider all the angles, and really make decisions that are going to lead to long-term success." - Dr. James Bryant

"Success doesn't come all at once. It's built one move at a time through strategic thinking, resilience, and action." - Dr. James Bryant

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

How can breaking free from invisible boxes transform your personal and professional life?

In episode 164, of the Engineer Your Success podcast, Dr. James Bryant sits down with Betsy Pepine, a successful real estate entrepreneur and author of "Breaking Boxes." Betsy shares her journey of breaking free from societal and self-imposed constraints, offering valuable insights on recognizing and overcoming invisible boxes that limit personal growth and fulfillment. From redefining success to embracing authenticity, this conversation explores the power of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and intentional decision-making in crafting a life true to one's core values. Listeners will gain practical strategies for identifying their own boxes, developing the courage to challenge them, and creating a more authentic and fulfilling life both personally and professionally.

[00:00 - 09:11] Unveiling the Invisible Constraints

• Recognizing the existence of invisible boxes in our lives
• The importance of self-awareness in identifying constraints
• How societal expectations can shape our choices and behaviors

[09:12 - 17:51] The Journey to Authenticity

• Betsy's personal story of breaking free from family expectations
• The role of fear in keeping us confined to our boxes
• Developing the courage to pursue one's true passions

[17:50 - 21:24] Tools for Breaking Boxes

• The power of emotional intelligence in decision-making
• Practical strategies for identifying and challenging personal constraints
• The importance of aligning actions with core values

[21:25 - 23:42] Redefining Success and Relationships

• Using the "buy box" concept in personal and professional relationships
• The value of mentorship in personal growth
• Balancing others' expectations with personal authenticity

[23:43 - 26:41] Mindful Leadership and Self-Reflection

• Being aware of boxes we put others in
• The importance of integrity in decision-making
• Modeling authenticity and work ethic for others

[26:42 - 33:12] Overcoming Stereotypes and Biases

• Dealing with boxes others put us in based on appearance or age
• Recognizing our own biases and categorizations of others
• The importance of open-mindedness in interactions

Key Quotes:

"Living an authentic life, true to myself and my core values." - Betsy Pepine

"I would just love, if everybody would have the courage to get out of boxes that no longer serve them." - Betsy Pepine

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

How can inventors protect their ideas while still bringing them to market?

In episode 163, Dr. James Bryant interviews Wayne Carroll, a patent attorney and host of the Leveraging Inspiration Podcast. Wayne shares his journey from engineer to patent attorney, offering invaluable insights for inventors and entrepreneurs. He discusses the delicate balance between protecting intellectual property and monetizing ideas, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of faith in business. Wayne provides practical advice on patenting processes, common mistakes inventors make, and strategies for protecting innovative ideas.

[00:00 - 09:59] From Engineering to Patent Law: Wayne's Inspiring Journey

• Wayne's grandfather's patents inspired his career path

• Transition from electronics engineering to patent law

• Overcoming barriers to find the right professional direction

[10:00 - 13:57] The Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship: Lessons Learned

• Starting a firm without business training led to initial struggles

• Adapting to economic challenges during the 2008 financial crisis

• Importance of resilience and flexibility in business

[13:58 - 17:05] Protecting Your Inventions: Strategies and Pitfalls

• The value of hiring a business coach for entrepreneurs

• Zero hidden fees policy in patent and trademark filing

• Common mistakes inventors make when seeking patents

[17:06 - 20:20] The Patent Process: What Inventors Need to Know

• Alternative ways to protect ideas beyond patents

• Timeline and challenges in the patent application process

• Understanding rejection rates and examination procedures

[20:21 - 21:30] Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family Life

• Wayne's experience of maintaining a strong marriage while running a business

• The importance of having a supportive partner in entrepreneurial endeavors

• Approaching the empty nester stage and enjoying shared activities

[21:31 - 25:30] Faith, Mistakes, and Growth in Business

• The role of faith in guiding business decisions

• Learning from mistakes and moving forward

• The importance of delegating, eliminating, and automating tasks

[25:31 - 29:32] The Future of Patents and AI

• Artificial intelligence's impact on patent law

• The importance of confidentiality in protecting inventions

• Changes in patent filing regulations and their implications

Key Quotes: 

"We help inventors who have ideas as well as business people with a brand that they want to protect." - Wayne Carroll

"You're going to make mistakes if you're an entrepreneur... Don't beat yourself up." - Wayne Carroll

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

How an engineer successfully transitioned into high-powered sales and built wealth along the way?

In episode 162, Dr. James Bryant sits down with Tiffany Ward, a former engineer who has successfully pivoted into a thriving career in sales while simultaneously building wealth through various investment strategies. Tiffany shares her journey from IT and project management roles to becoming a sales executive for a Fortune 100 company, offering valuable insights on career transitions, personal development, and financial growth. Listeners will gain practical advice on advancing their careers, diversifying income streams, and making strategic investments for long-term financial success.

[00:00 - 04:42] From Engineering to Sales: Tiffany's Career Evolution

• Tiffany's background in IT and business
• Transition from engineering roles to sales
• The importance of adaptability in career growth

[04:43 - 05:48] Mastering the Art of Interviewing and Career Advancement

• Lessons learned from early interview experiences
• Strategies for excelling in job interviews
• The value of continuous skill development and certifications

[05:49 - 10:29] Embracing the Sales Mindset: From Engineer to Trusted Advisor

• Overcoming preconceptio ns about sales roles
• Leveraging technical expertise in sales positions
• The importance of building rapport and trust with clients

[10:30 - 15:11] Building Wealth: Diverse Investment Strategies

• Maximizing employer-sponsored retirement plans
• Exploring stock market investments and dollar-cost averaging
• Venturing into real estate investments

[15:12 - 19:21] Expanding Income Streams: Short-Term Rentals and Passive Investments

• Managing short-term rental properties
• Exploring passive investment opportunities
• The importance of reinvesting profits for long-term growth

[19:22 - 23:30] Focusing on What Matters: Strategies for Success

• Identifying priorities based on life stages
• Designing and executing plans for personal and professional growth
• The importance of adaptability and continuous learning

Key Quotes:

What matters most is going to change depending on where you are in life." - Dr. James Bryant 

"To anybody looking to make a transition, get some trusted advisors as friends around you, a coach or a mentor that can help you think through what your priorities are, how to pick the one thing and how to move forward with confidence." - Tiffany Ward

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

What if there was a way to make college more affordable and find the perfect fit for your child?

Dr. James Bryant sits down with Angie Grimm, lead college funding professional at College Solutions LLC. Angie shares her expertise on navigating the complex world of college planning, from optimizing high school experiences to securing financial aid. With over 15 years in the field, Angie offers invaluable insights for parents and students alike, emphasizing the importance of early planning and holistic approaches to college selection. This episode is a must-listen for anyone facing the task of college preparation and financing.

[00:00 - 07:07] The College Decision: More Than Just Tuition

• College planning involves academic, social, and financial considerations
• High school counselors may not provide comprehensive college guidance
• Early planning is crucial for optimizing college opportunities

[07:08 - 09:12] Angie's Journey: From Financial Planner to College Funding Expert

• Angie's 15-year experience in college planning
• Personal insights from guiding her own children through college
• The importance of balancing retirement and college funding

[09:13 - 14:40] The College Planning Process: A Holistic Approach

• Educating families on current college costs and financial aid myths
• Simultaneous focus on student course optimization and parent financial planning
• The benefits of starting college planning as early as freshman year of high school

[14:41 - 20:11] Timing is Everything: When to Start College Planning

• Ideal time to start planning is freshman year of high school
• Benefits of early career exploration and course selection
• It's never too late to optimize college planning and financing

[20:12 - 31:06] Optimizing the College Application Process

• Helping students showcase their achievements effectively
• Guiding students through essay writing and application optimization
• The importance of starting early to reduce stress and improve outcomes

Key Quotes:

"Our goal is to not contribute to the extreme ridiculous amount of the student loan debt crisis." - Angie Grimm

"We're an expert in this arena, making sure you don't pay full sticker price for college and making sure your student is optimized through the process." - Angie Grimm

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Connect with Angie Grimm: 

Website: www.collegesolutionsllc.com

E-mail: [email protected]

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

What does it really take to accelerate your engineering career through professional licensure?

Episode 160 continues the conversation on advancing engineering careers through professional licensure. Adapted from a panel discussion with the Michigan Department of Transportation's summer internship program, this episode offers practical advice for both students and seasoned engineers considering licensure. The panelists: Erin Donovan PE, Hitisha Sharma PE, Ander Boykin PE, and Anna Bosin PE, share their personal experiences, tips for exam preparation, and insights into the impact of professional engineering (PE) licensure on career growth. From strategies for tackling the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to navigating the PE licensing process across multiple states, this episode provides valuable guidance for engineers at all stages of their careers.

[00:00 - 07:35] The Journey to Professional Engineering: More Than Just Passing Exams

• Obtaining PE licensure is crucial for career advancement in engineering
• The FE exam should be taken as close to graduation as possible
• Professional licensure opens up new opportunities and responsibilities

[07:36 - 11:23] Mastering the FE and PE Exams: Strategies for Success

• Dedicate 3-5 months of focused study time for exam preparation
• Practice exams and problem-solving are essential for comprehension
• Utilize study groups and mentors for support and guidance

[11:24 - 17:13] Navigating Multi-State Licensure and Continuing Education

• PE licensure can often be transferred between states through comity
• Be aware of continuing education requirements for each state
• Maintain your original PE license to avoid potential issues when relocating

[17:14 - 24:19] Overcoming Challenges: Late-Career Licensure and Self-Doubt

• It's never too late to pursue professional licensure
• Apply self-compassion and give yourself permission to study and grow
• Separate your engineering skills from test-taking abilities to manage insecurities

[24:20 - 27:00] The Impact of Professional Licensure on Career Growth and Personal Development

• PE licensure can remove career advancement ceilings
• Embrace the challenge and seek support from mentors and peers
• Remember that the journey to greatness is demanding but rewarding

Key Quotes:

The journey to becoming a licensed professional engineer is not just about passing exams. It's about growth, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence in our field. - Dr. James Bryant 

Give yourself permission to go back and study. - Dr. James Bryant

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

What role does professional engineering licensure play in accelerating your career, and how does it differ between public and private sectors?

In episode 159, Dr. James Bryant delves into the crucial topic of accelerating your engineering career through professional licensure. Featuring a panel of experienced engineers from diverse backgrounds: Erin Donovan PE, Hitisha Sharma PE, Ander Boykin PE and Anna Bosin, PE. The conversation explores the importance of obtaining the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and Professional Engineering (PE) license. The panelists share their personal journeys, challenges faced, and invaluable insights into how these credentials can shape an engineer's career trajectory in both public and private sectors. This episode provides aspiring engineers with practical advice and motivation to pursue their professional engineering licensure, emphasizing its impact on career growth and professional credibility.

[00:00 - 04:53] Setting the Stage: The Path to Engineering Success

• Overview of the Transportation Leadership Launch Pad program
• The importance of professional engineering licensure in career acceleration

[04:54 - 07:09] Meet the Experts: Diverse Perspectives in Engineering

• Introduction of panelists from various engineering backgrounds
• Representation of both public and private sector experiences
• Highlighting the importance of early career decisions in engineering

[07:09 - 17:52] The Journey to Professional Engineering: Challenges and Triumphs

• Importance of taking the FE exam soon after graduation
• The impact of PE licensure on career credibility and advancement
• Strategies for exam preparation, including group study benefits

[17:53 - 23:58] Public vs. Private Sector: Navigating Different Engineering Landscapes

• Comparison of job security and career progression in public and private sectors
• The demands and growth opportunities in the private sector
• The value of PE licensure across both sectors

[23:59 - 27:35] The Impact of PE Licensure: Opening Doors and Expanding Horizons

• PE licensure's role in accessing decision-making positions
• How PE credentials enhance company reputation and competitiveness
• Long-term career benefits of obtaining a PE license

Key Quotes:

"Having that PE, just having engineer behind your name. It lends a certain credibility to you when you reach out to clients or peers, colleagues about projects." - Aaron Donovan

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.

How can engineers authentically embrace their ambition while building meaningful relationships in their professional and personal lives?

In episode 158, Dr. James Bryant welcomes Hitisha Sharma, an accomplished electrical engineer with a passion for growth and development. Hitisha shares her journey from a recent graduate to a licensed professional, offering valuable insights on career progression, the importance of licensing, and personal growth in the engineering field. The conversation delves into the challenges of balancing ambition with authenticity, the significance of continuous learning, and the impact of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. Hitisha's reflections on her experiences will provide you with practical advice on navigating the engineering industry while staying true to your aspirations.

[00:00 - 02:56] The Power of Specialized Podcasts: Engineering Success

• Hitisha's discovery of industry-specific podcasts
• The value of content tailored to engineers' career journeys
• Dr. James Bryant's mission for the Engineer Your Success podcast

[02:57 - 05:03] From Campus to Career: Hitisha's Engineering Odyssey

• Hitisha's educational background and early career experiences
• The importance of diversifying project portfolios
• Building professional confidence through deliberate effort

[05:03 - 09:37] The Art of Patient Progress: Cultivating Career Growth

• Shifting focus from external metrics to internal growth
• The role of patience and mindset development in achieving milestones
• Prioritizing value addition over immediate recognition

[09:38 - 14:12] Climbing the Engineering Ladder: Steps to Success

• The crucial role of educational qualifications and licensing
• Navigating various roles and responsibilities in career progression
• Embracing high-visibility roles for greater impact

[14:13 - 19:52] The License to Succeed: Unlocking PE Certification Benefits

• How professional licensing opens doors to higher-level roles
• The significant impact of PE certification on earning potential
• Leveraging licensing for entrepreneurial opportunities in engineering

[19:53 - 28:18] Authenticity: The Engineer's Secret Weapon for Growth

• Embracing one's true self to attract like-minded individuals
• The power of decluttering relationships for personal development
• Creating a ripple effect of authenticity in professional circles

[28:19 - 35:25] Challenges and Visions: Engineering a Better Future

• The transformative power of annual personal growth challenges
• Redefining success as a journey of personal transformation
• Dr. James Bryant's vision for empowering engineers as individuals

Key Quotes:

"Continue to build your toolbox, continue to network, continue to put yourself in good projects." - Hitisha Sharma

"The stronger the foundation, the taller the structure that you can build." - Dr. James Bryant

"The destination is temporary, but who you become is going to be permanent." - Hitisha Sharma

Engineer's Blueprint for success: https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/engineers-blueprint/

Let's connect! Find me on my LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. I'd love to hear from you.

Sign Up for the Email List: https://bit.ly/3QFzcWW 

You have the strength of a hero within you. Check out my website, www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com, and learn how to unlock your potential and achieve success both in business and in life.