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About the Guest:
Kenneth Lo is a two-time world championship track cyclist turned AI strategist and entrepreneur. As the co-founder of Zen Business AI, he helps organizations leverage artificial intelligence to scale operations and optimize growth.
However, Kenneth’s most profound journey in recent years has been a deeply personal one - facing an unexpected cancer diagnosis and redefining resilience in the face of uncertainty.
About the Episode
In this deeply moving episode, Kenneth Lo shares his raw and powerful journey of receiving a shocking cancer diagnosis, the emotional turmoil that followed, and how he found strength through vulnerability, community, and AI.
Steve Mellor dives deep into how Kenneth adapted to the unexpected, leaned on his tribe, and leveraged AI tools to navigate his treatment and recovery. This episode is not just about overcoming adversity but about redefining success and finding purpose through life's toughest challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Links & Resources:
Connect with Kenneth Lo on Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/kennethlo
Learn more about Zen Business AI - https://zenbiz.co
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Glenn Leifheit is a technology leader at Microsoft, a podcast host, and a dedicated mentor. With over 20 years in the tech industry, Glenn has embraced personal and professional growth while helping others navigate their own journeys. He hosts From Stuck to Growth and co-hosts Mentorship Live on LinkedIn, a space dedicated to supporting job seekers.
About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady, host Steve Mellor sits down with Glenn Leifheit to discuss the power of growth, mentorship, and navigating change. Glenn shares his unique insights on how mentorship is more than just guidance - it's a two-way street that fosters mutual learning. He also talks about his experience in the fast-paced world of Microsoft, the importance of prioritization, and how humor and introspection can transform the way we approach challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Links & Resources:
🚀 If this episode inspired you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend who needs to hear it. 🎧
✅ Subscribe to GrowthReady for more inspiring conversations.
⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us reach more listeners.
📲 Follow us on social media for more insights and behind-the-scenes content!
Send us Fan Mail
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Stay connected and keep growing with Steve:
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Frankie Russo is an entrepreneur, speaker, and author who specializes in business growth, innovation, and leadership. He has built and scaled multiple successful companies, including one that grew 60x in three years and was eventually acquired by a Fortune 500 company.
Frankie is also deeply involved in helping individuals overcome addiction and personal stagnation. His book Breaking WHY: Hacking and Rebuilding Strategic Emotions for Authentic Success explores the intersection of purpose, passion, and business strategy.
He is the host of The School of Weird podcast, where he dives into the power of embracing your uniqueness.
About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady, Frankie Russo breaks down what it truly means to be "growth ready", and it's not what most people think. He shares insights on how failure, rather than success, is the real foundation of growth and why stagnation is a greater threat than failure itself.
Frankie discusses the "stagnation spiral," the importance of identifying problems honestly, and why embracing your "weird" is the key to unlocking limitless growth.
Throughout the conversation, Frankie and the host explore how businesses and individuals can break free from outdated models, reframe their approach to success, and consistently evolve. They also discuss the balance between personal and professional growth, and how self-honesty and emotional awareness play a crucial role in long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
📢 Resources:
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
🎙️ About the Guest:
Larry Jackson is a medical device sales expert with a background in professional fighting, including boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA. Coming from a tough upbringing, Larry has navigated personal and professional challenges with resilience, leading to a career in disruptive technology sales. His journey from fighting to sales is a testament to growth, adaptability, and the power of perseverance.
🔥 About the Episode:
In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Larry shares his journey from a challenging childhood to professional fighting and ultimately thriving in medical device sales. He discusses what it truly means to be "growth ready," touching on three key themes:
Larry’s transparency about his struggles, victories, and the lessons he's learned along the way makes this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating their own path to personal and professional growth.
🎯 Key Takeaways:
Links and Resources:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from their past, step into their true potential, and redefine success on their own terms. 🎧✨
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
ED Dudley is a passionate advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, with over 20 years of experience in financial services.
He co-founded Shining Light In Darkness, a nonprofit supporting underserved survivors, and has served as Interim Board Chair of United Against Slavery, advancing research to address anti-trafficking challenges globally.
As Board President of SwingPals, ED helps improve the lives of underprivileged children in Durham, NC. Guided by empathy and community, he merges financial expertise with social advocacy to empower and uplift those in need. "It's not what I do for a living, but what I do for the living," he says.
About the Episode:
Ed shares his transformative journey from chasing corporate success to finding true fulfillment through service. He unpacks the power of mindset, the importance of building a legacy, and how small acts of kindness can lead to meaningful impact.
Through personal experiences and deep reflections, Ed challenges listeners to rethink success—not as a measure of what we accumulate, but of how we serve others.
This episode is packed with wisdom on personal growth, resilience, and the power of giving back.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Growth happens in inches, not leaps—focus on small, consistent progress.
✔ True success is measured in service, not just material wealth.
✔ Every person has the ability to create a lasting impact through their actions.
✔ Talking about difficult topics (like domestic violence) is essential for change.
✔ Serving others is a key to fulfillment and personal growth.
📢 Resources & Links:
🚀 If this episode inspired you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend who needs to hear it. 🎧
✅ Subscribe to GrowthReady for more inspiring conversations.
⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us reach more listeners.
📲 Follow us on social media for more insights and behind-the-scenes content!
Send us Fan Mail
Support the show
Connect with Steve Mellor
Stay connected and keep growing with Steve:
Connect with GrowthReady
Join the community and keep your growth journey going:
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Hardy Smith is a seasoned consultant, speaker, and author specializing in nonprofit governance and board engagement. With a background in NASCAR, he brings a unique perspective on strategy, anticipation, and leadership. Hardy is the author of Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, a book dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations overcome common board challenges and foster effective leadership.
Discover more about Hardy on his website: www.hardysmith.com
About the Episode:
In this episode of The Growth Ready Podcast, Hardy Smith shares his journey from the fast-paced world of NASCAR to the nonprofit sector. He discusses the critical concept of being "growth ready," emphasizing preparation, anticipation, and adaptability. Hardy draws parallels between NASCAR’s demand for quick decision-making and the nonprofit world’s need for strategic foresight. He explores the challenges nonprofits face, particularly financial constraints and board engagement, and offers practical advice on fostering intentional growth. Additionally, Hardy delves into his book, Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, shedding light on how organizations can shift their mindset and create lasting change.
Key Takeaways:
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Omar Halabieh is a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience spanning telecom, energy, and payments. He currently serves as Director of Technology at Amazon Payment Services, overseeing payment experiences across the Middle East and Africa. Beyond his professional role, Omar is passionate about leadership development, mentoring others, and fostering sustainable growth in their careers and lives.
Connect with Omar thru his website at www.omarhalabieh.com
About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady Podcast, host Steve Mellor is joined by Omar Halabieh for a deep dive into what it means to be truly "growth ready." Omar shares his unique leadership philosophy centered around continuous learning, courageous conversations, and a long-term, sustainable approach to growth. He opens up about pivotal moments in his career where courage changed the trajectory of his path and offers practical advice for leaders looking to grow while supporting their teams.
Key Takeaways:
The Four Pillars of Being "Growth Ready":
The Power of Courageous Conversations:
Creating an Environment for Growth:
Serving Others While Growing Yourself:
Sustaining Growth:
Redefining Success and the Right Path:
This episode is a must-listen for leaders and professionals at any stage of their journey who want to grow sustainably, embrace courage, and build meaningful careers.
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Scott Ramey is the secret weapon for forward-thinking executives ready to elevate their communication and leadership skills. With over 20 years of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies to billions in new business, Scott’s innovative SPEAK Framework transforms leaders by helping them communicate with clarity, inspire action, and drive results. Through his one-on-one coaching and keynote talks, Scott empowers leaders to unlock their full potential and foster lasting impact.
About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady, Steve Mellor sits down with his friend and inspiring entrepreneur, Scott Ramey, to discuss the importance of stepping into your authentic self, navigating fear, and overcoming success reluctance. Scott shares his transformative journey from a corporate leader to an independent entrepreneur, detailing the challenges of unmasking his true identity and creating meaningful connections through vulnerability and communication. This conversation is packed with insights on leadership, personal growth, and the power of resilience.
Key Takeaways:
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Jen Gomez is a trailblazer in empowering female entrepreneurs to break free from self-doubt and unleash their full potential. With nearly a decade of experience coaching women on how to elevate their personal and professional brands, work holistically, and scale their businesses, Jen has become a trusted mentor for those ready to dream bigger and make a lasting impact.
Jen's work is both strategic and deeply personal, reflecting her belief that the world is waiting for women to step into their power and lead with intention. With a Master's in Business from Louisiana State University, a forthcoming book titled Live by Design: Taking You from Leader to Legend, and a decade of experience coaching top-tier female entrepreneurs, Jen continues to inspire women to elevate their lives and businesses. Her style is transformational yet approachable—encouraging women to dream big, lead boldly, and design a life of purpose and fulfillment.
About the Episode:
In this episode of the Growth Ready podcast, Jennifer emphasizes that true growth requires deep reflection and understanding of the past to build a solid foundation for future success. She discusses her unique approach to helping clients overcome internal barriers and achieve their goals through the lens of joy and resilience.
Jennifer opens up about her personal journey of networking, overcoming challenges, and using joy as a transformative strategy. Together, she and Steve explore the concept of "joy anchors," a practical tool to overcome challenges and maintain momentum in life and business. They also dive into topics like authenticity, fear-based decision-making, and the importance of resilience and creativity in entrepreneurship.
Looking ahead, Jennifer shares her exciting future plans, including writing a book and hosting retreats, aimed at fostering joy and leadership development.
Key Takeaways:
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will challenge your perspective on growth and teach you how to lead with joy and purpose.
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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
About the Guest:
Ken Schmidt, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson, is a renowned business strategist and speaker who helped transform the brand into a global icon. Known for his bold and entertaining style, Ken specializes in competition, brand positioning, and customer loyalty. His book, Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, shares his unique insights on standing out and thriving in business. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Ken blends his passions for riding and storytelling to inspire leaders worldwide.
Learn more about Ken through his website at www.kenspeaks.com
About the Episode:
In this episode of Growth Ready, Ken Schmidt, shares his invaluable insights on competitiveness and success. Drawing from his extensive experience, Ken emphasizes the significance of viewing the world through a competitive lens—not just in business, but in life.
He explores the critical role of reputation, human connection, and emotional engagement in driving business success. Ken introduces three essential questions that businesses and individuals must ask to refine their goals, enhance their strategies, and boost competitiveness.
The conversation delves into actionable advice on:
Ken also highlights the importance of passion, consistency, and genuine interest in others as cornerstones for personal and professional growth. With practical tips and thought-provoking perspectives, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone seeking to elevate their competitive edge.
Key Takeaways
Send us Fan Mail
Support the show
Connect with Steve Mellor
Stay connected and keep growing with Steve:
Connect with GrowthReady
Join the community and keep your growth journey going:
----
This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...
From the publisher's feed
What does it mean to be ready to pursue growth?
Should we pursue growth when we don't feel ready?
And how do we achieve optimal growth by readying ourselves for everything that…
Hosted by Steve Mellor, a seasoned high-performance executive coach and former US Olympic swim coach, each episode explores the pivotal moments that define true growth and the work that went into getting ready for it.
Through candid conversation and detailed personal accounts, guests share their unique experiences of overcoming challenges, embracing transformation, and what it takes to get ready for every step of their growth journey.