Get Unstuck & On Target

Before becoming a life transformation coach for elite business owners, Andrew Anderson stood crying alone in his high school bathroom stall, hiding his shoes so no one would know who was inside.

This raw vulnerability shared in the podcast sets the tone for a profound discussion between host Mike O'Neill and Andrew Anderson about why external success often fails to bring internal peace.

Anderson talks about a concept called "unconscious incompetence" - when successful people don't know what they don't know. Through powerful client stories, he illustrates how childhood programming shapes adult behavior, even in highly accomplished individuals.

Mike O'Neill masterfully draws out practical insights about breaking free from limiting beliefs, including:

Why throwing money at personal problems doesn't work

How childhood decisions create adult patterns

The reason high achievers struggle to find fulfillment

Why seeking parental approval can haunt successful adults

How permission to let go leads to transformation

The conversation goes down a wonderful path as Anderson shares how his father, "the greatest salesman in the world," shaped his ability to ask tough questions that others won't dare ask.

This episode goes beyond typical success advice to examine why accomplished people often feel stuck despite their achievements. Through real client examples, Anderson demonstrates how addressing root causes rather than symptoms leads to lasting change.

For leaders wondering why their external success hasn't brought internal peace, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on finding genuine fulfillment.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/197

The stock market seems complicated until you hear Glen Starr explain it. This former chemical engineer turned financial advisor breaks down investing into simple terms that even a 5th grader could understand.

In this candid conversation with executive coach Mike O'Neill, Glen shares why most people focus on the wrong things when investing. His most controversial take? Stock prices only matter twice - when you buy and when you sell. Everything else is noise.

Glen's practical wisdom comes from 32 years of helping clients build wealth, sparked by an unexpected career change during an oil industry downturn. His engineering background gives him a unique perspective on financial planning, focusing on facts rather than emotions.

Key insights from the episode:

• Why real estate isn't as liquid as most people think
• The 4 main categories where you can invest your money
• How dividends can make a "boring" stock incredibly valuable
• Why media hysteria about economic data usually doesn't matter
• The importance of taking the long view - beyond your own lifetime

Mike guides the conversation masterfully, drawing out Glen's most valuable insights while keeping the discussion grounded in practical advice anyone can use. Their exchange about trust and perspective, using the analogy of a haircut, perfectly captures why having an outside viewpoint is crucial for both investing and leadership.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode strips away the complexity of financial planning and focuses on what really matters - owning successful businesses for the long term.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/196

Your best employees don't quit over pay - they quit over managers who fake culture alignment.

In this candid conversation, HR veteran Maggie Carrington shares hard-earned insights from 35+ years transforming workplace cultures, including a shocking story of a manager who fooled top leadership while quietly destroying team morale.

Mike O'Neill and Maggie dig deep into:

• Why most culture change efforts fail before they start (and the critical first question leaders must answer)
• The hidden department-level cultures that can make or break your company
• How to spot the warning signs of cultural misalignment through turnover patterns
• Real examples of cultural transformation from manufacturing to real estate
• Practical ways to measure if your culture change is actually working

Key takeaway: Cultural transformation isn't a quick fix. It requires long-term vision and commitment to continuous improvement, with short-term wins serving as building blocks toward lasting change.

Maggie shares her experience working with Dr. W. Edwards Deming in 1987, revealing how his focus on quality management was really about something much deeper - how organizations treat their people.

Mike brings his executive coaching perspective, challenging leaders to consider why people truly follow them - obligation or authentic belief in their vision?

Whether you're a CEO, HR leader, or manager, this episode provides actionable insights for building a culture where business objectives and employee fulfillment successfully coexist.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/195

Most people quit when the path gets tough. Barry Slaymaker did the opposite.

After leaving engineering school, Barry found himself on the back of a pickup truck in Georgia, digging silt fence in 100-degree heat. Instead of viewing it as rock bottom, he saw it as his starting point.

In this candid conversation with Mike O'Neill, Barry shares how persistence shaped his journey from construction worker to President and CFO of ATC Development.

Key moments include:

• Why Barry chose manual labor over sitting in his parents' basement

• The pivotal decision to work full-time while pursuing multiple degrees

• How failure became his greatest teacher in leadership

• The cost of persistence on family life and work-life balance

• Why creating your own setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities

Mike brings out crucial leadership insights through thoughtful questions about distinguishing productive persistence from stubborn determination. Their discussion reveals how authenticity in leadership - including admitting failures - builds stronger teams.

The conversation takes an intimate turn when Barry acknowledges how his drive impacted his role as husband and father, showing that persistence comes with real trade-offs.

For leaders struggling with setbacks or questioning their path forward, this episode provides a raw look at how staying in the game - even when you're not the smartest or most talented - can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/194

The secret weapon of high-performing leaders isn't what you think.

Gratitude isn't just for Thanksgiving anymore. It's becoming the cornerstone of effective leadership.

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with David George Brooke, known as "That Gratitude Guy," to unpack how a simple shift in mindset can transform your leadership style and your life.

Brooke, a former Nordstrom store manager turned gratitude expert, shares his journey from corporate America to becoming a bestselling author and speaker. He reveals how a tragic personal loss became the catalyst for his mission to spread the power of gratitude.

Key insights from the conversation:

• The science behind gratitude: It's not just feel-good fluff. Brooke cites research showing how practicing gratitude can lead to improved health, reduced anxiety, and increased happiness.

• The 5-minute habit that's changing lives: Brooke breaks down his daily gratitude journaling practice and how it's impacted thousands.

• Why listening might be your most underrated leadership skill: Mike and David discuss the transformative power of truly hearing your team.

• The Golden Rule of management: Brooke shares his no-nonsense approach to leading by example.

• How gratitude can pull you out of a downward spiral: Real-life examples of people finding hope through thankfulness.

Mike O'Neill brings his executive coaching expertise to the table, asking probing questions that get to the heart of how leaders can implement these practices for tangible results.

Whether you're a seasoned CEO or an aspiring team lead, this episode offers practical strategies to create a more positive, productive workplace culture through the power of appreciation.

Don't miss Brooke's challenge to listeners at the end - it might just be the nudge you need to start your own gratitude practice today.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/193

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Mark Farmer, a decorated Air Force veteran turned HR leader, to unpack the often-overlooked strengths military veterans bring to civilian leadership roles.

Mark reveals the intense leadership training military members receive before taking on management positions - a stark contrast to many civilian organizations. He shares how this rigorous preparation equips veterans with invaluable skills in communication, accountability, and crisis management.

But the insights don't stop there.

Mike and Mark dive deep into the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, offering practical advice for both veterans and the organizations looking to hire them. Mark emphasizes the importance of finding a strong cultural fit, noting how veterans often seek purpose-driven work environments that align with their values.

The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Mark drops a bombshell statistic: 69% of people say their manager has a greater impact on their health than their doctor, therapist, or even their spouse. This revelation underscores the critical importance of effective leadership development programs.

Drawing from his experience at Grain Craft, Mark outlines a comprehensive approach to leadership training that goes beyond surface-level skills. He stresses the need for ongoing coaching and mentorship, explaining how these practices can dramatically reduce turnover rates and boost employee engagement.

Mike contributes his own insights on the distinction between consulting and coaching, highlighting how the right questions can unlock hidden potential in employees. 

Whether you're a veteran looking to transition to civilian leadership, an HR professional seeking to improve your organization's leadership development program, or a manager aiming to have a more positive impact on your team, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking ideas.

Tune in for an episode that might just change the way you think about leadership, veterans, and the power of asking the right questions.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/192

AI doesn't have feelings, but your employees do. As leaders, we must navigate the ethical minefield of AI while nurturing human potential.

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Marlene Kreidler, a seasoned business executive turned academic, to explore the intersection of AI, ethics, and leadership in the modern workplace.

Marlene shares her unique perspective on the "AI generation" - those born after 2010 who will enter the workforce with AI fully embedded in their lives. She challenges leaders to think beyond just training employees on AI tools and instead focus on developing critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills.

Mike and Marlene discuss:

• The importance of maintaining human touch in an increasingly digital world

• How to prepare for a workforce where AI is the norm, not the exception 

• Practical ways to foster ethical thinking in employees of all generations 

• The value of vulnerability and transparency in leadership

Marlene recounts a personal story of using AI to overcome a teaching challenge, highlighting both the power and limitations of the technology. She emphasizes that while AI can provide quick solutions, human judgment and values remain crucial.

Mike brings his executive coaching expertise to the conversation, asking pointed questions about how leaders can inspire authentic followership in an AI-driven world. 

This episode offers a thought-provoking blend of forward-thinking insights and timeless leadership wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, you'll gain valuable perspectives on steering your team through the AI revolution while keeping humanity at the forefront.

Don't miss this opportunity to get ahead of the curve and shape the ethical landscape of tomorrow's workplace. Listen now and equip yourself to lead with both technological savvy and human-centered values.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/191

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill talks with Gary Searle about the power of referral marketing in today's business landscape.

Gary Searle, founder of Customerse, shares his expertise on building consistent referral sources. He breaks down the five most reliable referral channels:

1. Existing clients

2. Business partnerships 

3. Affiliate networks

4. Employee referrals

5. Strategic networking

Mike and Gary discuss why traditional marketing tactics are losing effectiveness. As ad costs rise and algorithms change, businesses need new ways to reach customers. Gary argues referral marketing fills this gap.

The conversation covers practical tips for asking clients for referrals without feeling awkward. Gary emphasizes timing these requests after a "win" and framing them as helping the client's network.

A key insight: Every referral starts with a conversation. Gary stresses the importance of productive dialogue in driving referrals at any scale.

Mike adds valuable perspective as an executive coach, noting parallels between referral marketing and building coaching relationships. Both rely on meaningful conversations to create connections.

Topics to look out for:

• The five most consistent referral sources for businesses

• How to ask for referrals without feeling uncomfortable 

• Why conversations are the key to unlocking more referrals

This episode provides a fresh take on an age-old marketing tactic. Gary and Mike make a compelling case for why referral marketing deserves renewed focus in the digital age.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/190

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit and two-time bestselling author.

Damon shares a deeply personal story of how quitting alcohol 8 years ago transformed his leadership style and life. This vulnerable moment sets the tone for an honest discussion about authentic leadership.

Mike digs into Damon's journey from high school baseball star to CEO, uncovering valuable insights on:

• The importance of transparency in uncertain times

• Why courage to fail is crucial for innovation

• How to build a culture that embraces risk-taking

• A 3-step formula for overcoming imposter syndrome

Damon reveals how his athletic background shaped his leadership philosophy, stressing the value of putting your team first and giving them space to try new things.

This conversation is packed with practical advice for leaders looking to build trust, foster innovation, and create a learning culture in their organizations.

Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode offers fresh perspectives on authentic leadership in the modern workplace.

Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/189

Serial entrepreneur Shafqat Huq reveals why failure is his secret weapon for business success.

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Shafqat Huq, a serial entrepreneur who's turned multiple ideas into thriving businesses.

Huq takes us on his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his high school days selling discounted sweaters to classmates. He shares candid insights about his failures and how they shaped his future successes.

"I think it means that I have failed a lot," Huq admits when asked about being a serial entrepreneur. But those failures yielded valuable lessons he applied to later ventures.

Mike digs deep into Huq's experiences, uncovering gems of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs:

• Start now, even if it's scrappy. Huq's first app began with a simple Google form.
• Forget perfection. As Reid Hoffman says, "If you're not embarrassed by your first product launch, you've launched too late."
• Delegate repeatable tasks. Anything that doesn't require your unique skills can be outsourced.
• Be willing to pivot. When faced with unresponsive overseas developers, Huq flew to Bangladesh to find a new team.
• Focus on practical solutions. Huq's superpower? Translating tech jargon into real-world applications for clients.

Mike highlights Huq's ability to make complex tech accessible to non-technical business owners, praising his responsiveness and practical approach.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to start or grow a business. Huq's journey proves that with persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from failures, entrepreneurial success is within reach.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will challenge your thinking and motivate you to take action on your business ideas.

Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.unstuck.show/188