GrowthReady Podcast

About the Guest:
Dallin is an author, entrepreneur, and award-winning shepherd. From small towns in Wyoming to one of the largest cities in China, he has inspired audiences to embrace perspectives beyond their own. Recognized as an expert in Authority Magazine, Dallin helps organizations and leaders challenge assumptions and communicate effectively.

Dallin’s leadership journey began at the age of 20 when he launched his first business—a digital marketing agency. The agency quickly grew, and by the time he sold it to a larger media group a few years later, it was serving clients internationally. He later founded a sustainable dog chew brand, which is now widely distributed across the United States. Over the years, Dallin has consulted for top realtors, banks, Chambers of Commerce, and numerous other industries, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and impactful leader.

About the Episode:
Dallin Cooper explores what it means to be 'GrowthReady,' emphasizing the pursuit of progress and the drive to move forward in life. He reflects on how personal experiences and the influence of his entrepreneurial parents shaped this mindset. The discussion uncovers common challenges to growth, such as fear, survival mode, and the impact of assumptive behavior, which often block true progress. Dallin shares his innovative approach to helping individuals and organizations overcome these obstacles, ultimately achieving meaningful personal and professional growth.

Dallin also opens up about his journey of juggling side hustles, confronting the challenges of commitment, and prioritizing fulfillment over financial gain. He recounts pivotal moments that led him to reevaluate his path, including selling a dog chew business and taking a leap into speaking. Dallin emphasizes the importance of committing fully to one’s goals, seeking guidance from trusted mentors, and finding balance between personal satisfaction and financial stability. His story is an inspiring testament to choosing dreams over comfort and making the hard decisions that lead to success.

Learn more about Dallin at www.dallincooper.com.

Key Takeaways

• Growth is a continuous journey, rooted in personal experiences and influences.
• Fear and survival mode can limit opportunities for progress.
• Assumptive behavior prevents recognition of the need for change.
• Encouraging self-discovery fosters deeper, lasting personal growth.
• True growth requires discomfort and a willingness to challenge biases.
• Commitment is the defining factor between wanting and achieving.
• Success often involves balancing personal fulfillment and financial stability.

Dallin’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that aligning actions with dreams—and fully committing to them—can transform both career and life.

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About the Guest:
Rich Salon is a seasoned HR expert, Career Transition Coach, author, and speaker with 25 years in corporate leadership roles at companies like The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Circuit City. Known as “Rich-the-HR-Guy,” he specializes in fostering career fulfillment, employee engagement, and trust within organizations. Rich’s dedication earned him CNN's "Hero of the Economy" award for his work at Circuit City and the nickname "chief engagement officer."

As a coach, Rich has authored *Career Trust* and *Unleashing Your Career*, guiding individuals toward purpose and fulfillment. Beyond his career, he actively contributes to his community, holding leadership roles in Rotary International and working to fulfill wishes for adults with terminal illnesses. Passionate about career growth and community impact, Rich is dedicated to helping others find purpose and success in their professional lives.

Learn more about Rich thru his website at www.ownershipconnection.com

About the Episode:
Rich Salon dives into what it means to be "GrowthReady" and the ongoing path of personal and professional development. He highlights the power of servant leadership, simplifying complexity, and leading with presence. Reflecting on pivotal moments like the Circuit City bankruptcy, Rich shares insights on guiding others through crisis, finding career fulfillment, and transitioning from employee engagement to deeper purpose. 

Now a career and business ownership coach, he discusses the importance of mindset shifts, identifying passions, and the impact of volunteer work. Rich’s journey offers inspiring lessons on growth, leadership, and making a difference.


Takeaways:

• Each of us needs to be growth ready.
• Helping leaders become better leaders is crucial.
• Simplicity can have a profound impact on understanding.
• Face-to-face interactions are vital for effective leadership.
• Success without fulfillment is failure.
• Engagement is important, but fulfillment is the ultimate goal.
• Leaders must prioritize the needs of their team members.
• Building relationships requires deliberate effort.
• Hope can be created even in dire situations.
• Identifying passions and talents is crucial for career success.
• Shifting from 'I should' to 'I will' is a powerful mindset change.
• Volunteerism can enhance personal and professional growth.
• Helping others find their true gifts is a personal mission.

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About the Guest:

Robert X. Fogarty is a speaker, advocate, and social entrepreneur, best known as the founder and CEO of Dear World, an organization dedicated to storytelling through powerful images and personal narratives. Since starting as an art project in New Orleans in 2010, Dear World has evolved into a global movement celebrating the impact of personal stories.

Robert has introduced the Brain Tattoo™ Storytelling Method to major organizations like Fidelity, UBS, and Duke Men’s Basketball, and has worked with diverse communities worldwide, from survivors of the Orlando Pulse tragedy to Syrian refugees. His work has been featured in CNN, The Today Show, and The New York Times.

Learn more about Robert by visiting his website https://dearworld.com/

About the Episode:
In this episode of the GrowthReady podcast, host Steve Mellor interviews Robert X. Fogarty, founder of Dear World. They delve into what it means to be “growth ready,” exploring Fogarty's transformative journey from a Hurricane Katrina volunteer to an entrepreneur, the impact of New Orleans on his life, and the power of storytelling in personal and professional growth.

The conversation highlights the role of chaos, team dynamics, and self-awareness in leadership, as well as the value of authentic storytelling in building connections and supporting leaders in crafting their own narratives.

Takeaways:

• Being growth ready means being curious and aware of your surroundings.
• Thriving in chaos can lead to personal and professional growth.
• Feeling needed is a powerful motivator for engagement and service.
• Storytelling is essential for connecting with others and conveying emotions.
• Opportunities often arise from unexpected places and experiences.
• Team dynamics are vital for success in any venture.
• Understanding the stakes involved can guide decision-making.
• Internal motivation drives excellence and personal fulfillment. Everyone has a version of excellence they aspire to.
• The temptation of excellence can be both powerful and dangerous.
• Self-awareness is crucial in leadership and personal growth.
• The story we tell ourselves shapes our well-being and relationships.
• Lies we tell ourselves can have serious consequences.
• Therapy can serve as a maintenance tool for personal growth.
• Creating a personal narrative is essential for authentic leadership.
• Collaboration can enhance the growth journey.
• Leaders need to engage in difficult conversations about their stories.
• Community support is vital for transformation.

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About the Guest:
Dr. Sonia L. Daniels is a highly skilled and experienced professional with a passion for empowering organizations to achieve sustainable growth. Through her consulting firm, S. Daniels Consulting, she leverages her expertise to support a wide range of clients, including nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government agencies. Her strong educational background in Public Policy and Public Administration-Nonprofit Management, as well as her experience in senior-level operations roles, has equipped her to effectively lead impact-focused capacity building projects.

Dr. Daniels embodies the ideal balance of professional expertise and personal passions, making her an invaluable resource for organizations looking to drive sustainable growth and create lasting positive change.

When she’s not working, Sonia indulges in solo international travel, gardening, exploring the arts and painting, reading to children at local schools, and spending time with family and friends.

You can learn more about Sonia thru her website www.sdanielsconsulting.com
Linkedin:S. Daniels Consulting
Instagram: sdanielsconsulting

About the Episode:
n this GrowthReady episode, Steve Mellor talks with Sonia Daniels about authenticity, personal growth, and viewing life in seasons to set goals and face challenges. Sonia shares her journey as a first-generation business owner, the value of change management, and the introspection needed to understand her worth. She emphasizes removing negative language, embracing discomfort, and practicing self-belief through meditation and affirmations. Her insights inspire listeners to see the unknown as a field of opportunities and to confidently pursue their goals.

Takeaways:

• Being growth ready means showing up authentically.
• Life can be viewed in seasons for easier navigation.
• Change management is fundamentally about people.
• Autonomy in career choices leads to personal fulfillment.
• Introspection is crucial for understanding one's worth.
• Daily practices can reinforce self-belief and worthiness.
• Meditation and affirmations can change mindset.
• Flexibility in work is essential for adult responsibilities.
• Understanding motives is key before starting a business.
• Success is built on believing in oneself and one's capabilities. Taking the word can't out of my vocabulary has transformed my life.
• Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth.
• Hiring a life coach helped me design my ideal life.
• Trusting myself is crucial for making decisions.
• Running a successful business is challenging but rewarding.
• No one is coming to save me; I must take ownership.
• Being open to change allows for new possibilities.
• Time will pass regardless of whether we take action or not.
• I focus on the lessons learned from adversity.
• The unknown can be a world of possibilities. 

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About Katie:

Katie Anderson is a leadership consultant, speaker, and author of the bestselling book "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn." Her work focuses on helping leaders build high-performing, learning-driven cultures. A Fulbright Scholar and Stanford graduate, Katie has inspired leaders worldwide to foster innovation and excellence.

Learn more about Katie thru her website at www.kbjanderson.com

About the Episode:
In this episode, Katie Anderson discusses the concept of being 'GrowthReady,' emphasizing the importance of a learning mindset. She shares insights from her diverse experiences, including her work with organizations to foster effective learning and continuous improvement.

Katie and Steve explore the significance of reflection in personal and professional growth. They discuss how intentional pauses and micro reflections can enhance learning and performance.

They emphasizes the need for leaders to carve out time for reflection amidst their busy schedules and the importance of framing experiences as experiments to foster a learning mindset. They also touch on the balance between high performance and learning, advocating for a more flexible approach to achieving goals.

Takeaways

• Every experience is an opportunity for learning.
• Learning is most effective through practice and doing.
• Intention is about aligning actions with purpose.
• Reflection is crucial for personal growth.
• Unexpected challenges can lead to significant growth.
• We must create conditions for others to succeed.
• Intention and goals are interconnected but distinct.
• The only true failure is not learning from mistakes.
• We have control over our intentions, not external goals. 
• Micro reflections can be integrated into daily routines.
• Intentional pauses help in proactive engagement during interactions.
• Building a habit of reflection strengthens learning.
• Having reflection partners can enhance the process.
• Creating space for reflection prevents burnout.
• Framing experiences as experiments fosters a learning mindset.
• Curiosity and inquiry are key to effective learning.
• High performers need to balance performance with learning opportunities.
• Not every moment needs to be high stakes for growth.

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About Patrick
Patrick Hardy is an internationally-recognized disaster preparedness expert dedicated to empowering people with practical strategies for navigating both major emergencies and everyday disruptions. As a keynote speaker and the author of "Design Any Disaster," Patrick shares invaluable insights and secrets of effective disaster planning, equipping individuals and organizations to build resilience in the face of uncertainty. He inspires others to turn potential crises into opportunities for growth and preparedness.

About the Episode
In this episode of GrowthReady, Patrick Hardy shares his insights on personal growth, disaster management, and the importance of self-identity. He emphasizes the need for a strong sense of self before pursuing growth and discusses his journey into disaster management, sparked by Hurricane Katrina. 

Patrick highlights the significance of intellectual curiosity, cultural adaptation, and leadership in emergencies, while also addressing the concepts of disruption and control in crisis management. He also discusses the importance of transforming disruptive events into opportunities for growth and empowerment. He emphasizes that disasters only become disasters when we allow them to, and that taking command, communicating effectively, and executing tasks can turn disruptions into advantages. Hardy shares insights on the necessity of self-reliance and independence, urging individuals and organizations to empower their teams and take responsibility for their own growth. He also highlights the significance of high performance through empowerment and leadership, illustrating how a shift in mindset can lead to success in the face of adversity.

Learn more about Patrick and his company thru his website at www.disasterpatrick.com

Takeaways

• Before you can grow, you need a strong sense of self.
• Stopping to reflect on who you are is crucial for growth.
• Intellectual curiosity drives personal and professional growth.
• Cultural adaptation is essential in new environments.
• Leadership is key in managing emergencies effectively.
• You have control over the outcomes in crises.
• Investing in yourself is more important than immediate financial gain.
• Disruption in life can lead to significant growth opportunities.
• Everyone faces their own version of a hurricane in life. You never have to experience a disaster for the rest of your life.
• A category 5 hurricane is not a disaster until we let it become one.
• Taking command of a disruption can make you stronger afterwards.
• If I do nothing, no one else will either.
• Treat external help like ice cream: nice, but not necessary.
• Empowerment is key to high performance in any organization.
• Disruptions can be turned into opportunities for growth.
• Independence and self-reliance are crucial during crises.
• High performance teams are built on empowerment and trust.
• Preparation is essential; if you prepare for a disaster, you will never experience one. 

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About Mark
Mark Scherer’s journey into spirituality began in his youth, driven by a desire to win arguments with his parents. This led him to explore the Bible and its connections to real life.

With over 30 years of study in Consciousness, Language, Spiritual Law, and Quantum Physics, Mark nurtured a passion for personal transformation. Now, he leads a team dedicated to empowering individuals through the Quantum Leap Technique™ (QLT), inspiring others to unlock their potential and embrace their transformative journeys.

About the Episode
In this conversation, Mark Scherer explores the idea of being growth ready and attracting luck. He highlights the need for a strong foundation to prepare for opportunities and shares his work as the founder of Encompass Life, a coaching and leadership development company that helps business owners break through barriers.

Mark introduces the shift from a 'how' mindset to a 'wow' mindset for quick idea implementation. He emphasizes finding peace and fulfillment to manifest desired outcomes and discusses the power of asking better questions. The conversation also covers the impact of language on our thoughts and the importance of letting go of negative self-talk. Finally, Mark underscores that personal growth is a journey, with fulfillment arising from the process itself.

Learn more about Mark and his company thru his website at www.encompasslife.com

Takeaways

• Building a strong foundation and infrastructure is crucial to being growth ready and attracting luck.
• Shifting from a 'how' mindset to a 'wow' mindset allows for quick and easy implementation of ideas.
• Finding peace and fulfillment is essential for attracting luck and manifesting desired outcomes.
• Asking the right questions and developing intuition can lead to breakthrough results and effective action. Asking better questions can lead to beneficial insights and positive change.
• Language and words have a profound impact on our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
• Letting go of negative self-talk and embracing a growth mindset is essential for personal development.
• Being coachable and open to feedback is crucial for growth and success.
• Personal growth is a journey, and fulfillment comes from embracing the unfolding process.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
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About Richard:
Richard is the CEO of Costa Rica’s Call Center, which he founded in 2008 after moving from Philadelphia. With over 20 years of experience, he has trained more than 10,000 bilingual telemarketers in advanced strategies and employee motivation. Richard holds a degree in Communication and Spanish from the University of Arizona and integrates his love for pinball machines into his company culture. He was inducted into the 2023 Abington High School Hall of Fame and annually supports students pursuing world languages.

About the Episode:
In this episode of the Growth Ready podcast, Richard Blank shares his inspiring journey from a Spanish major to the CEO of Costa Rica's Call Center. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for growth, overcoming fear, and the value of self-respect. Richard discusses his experiences in building a business, navigating challenges, and the significance of mentorship. He also highlights the joy of pursuing personal passions, such as his love for pinball machines, and how they contribute to a fulfilling life. The conversation concludes with insights on maintaining composure in chaos and the journey of growth and fulfillment.

Learn more about Richard and his company thru Linkedin at @costaricascallcenter

Takeaways:

• Being growth ready means being fully prepared.
• Fear can be a motivator if managed correctly.
• Self-respect is crucial for personal growth.
• Opportunities often come disguised as challenges.
• Building a business requires patience and perseverance.
• Passion fuels success in business endeavors.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in personal development.
• Maintaining composure during chaos is essential.
• Self-awareness helps in making informed decisions.
• Fulfillment comes from pursuing what you love.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
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About Robbie:
Robbie is the President and CEO of Sigma Engineers & Constructors, a destination workplace for both employees and clients in engineering, construction, field services, inspection, and leadership solutions. While his education and career tell the story of an engineer, a large part of Robbie’s growth journey has come from playing in creative and innovative spaces as he embraces his pedigree for business and entrepreneurship. Whether through real estate ventures, investing in other entrepreneurs and their businesses, or making his own wine Robbie’s career and life story speaks to a very clear theme; a desire to grow and embrace what it means to ready yourself for what comes with it.

About the Episode:
In this episode of the GrowthReady podcast, host Steve Mellor engages in a deep conversation with Robbie. They explore the concept of being 'Growth Ready,' emphasizing the importance of preparation, emotional intelligence, and curiosity in personal and professional growth. Robbie shares his journey from a victim mindset to one of empowerment, highlighting the significance of relationships and self-care in leadership. The discussion also touches on the joy found in leadership roles, the process of winemaking, and the lessons learned from failure. Ultimately, the episode underscores the necessity of continuous growth and the pursuit of joy in all aspects of life.

Learn more about Robbie and his company - Sigma Engineering and Construction at www.sigmaec.com

Takeaways:

• Being GrowthReady means preparing for opportunities.
• Preparation is key to success and happiness.
• Shifting from a victim mindset to empowerment is crucial.
• Emotional intelligence helps in managing relationships.
• Curiosity drives personal and professional growth.
• Finding joy in leadership enhances performance.
• Winemaking reflects the blend of art and science.
• Failure is a stepping stone to learning and growth.
• Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
• Continuous growth is necessary for fulfillment.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Jason Silver, a multi-time founder and author, shares his perspective on being growth ready and embracing uncertainty. Author of "Your Grass is Greener: Use What You Have. Get What You Want. At Work and In Life." He emphasizes the importance of being open-minded and ready to receive growth from unexpected sources. Jason's career trajectory has been non-linear, with a focus on rapid, extensive failure and learning from it. He advises taking small, low-cost steps to test ideas and find out if you're wrong rather than solely focusing on being right. Jason also shares a personal story of losing his sister, which led to a reevaluation of his life and work. In this conversation, Jason Silver discusses the importance of unlearning and reevaluating priorities in order to live a more fulfilling life. He shares his personal experience of realizing that he was overinvested in work and underinvested in the present moment with his family. Jason emphasizes the need to be intentional about how we invest our time and challenges the conventional belief that we have to sacrifice personal life for professional success. He also introduces the concept of the brief back as a powerful tool for effective communication and highlights the value of small changes and low-hanging fruit in achieving personal and professional growth.

Connect with Jason Silver on Linkedin at @silverjay.

Takeaways

• Being GrowthReady means being open-minded and ready to receive growth from unexpected sources.
• Embrace uncertainty and be willing to take small, low-cost steps to test ideas and find out if you're wrong.
• Failure is a valuable learning experience and can lead to personal and professional growth.
• Personal experiences can have a profound impact on our approach to work and life. Unlearning is an important process in personal and professional growth.
• It is crucial to reevaluate priorities and invest time intentionally.
• The brief back is a powerful tool for effective communication and avoiding miscommunications.
• Small changes and low-hanging fruit can have a significant impact on personal and professional growth.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor