On this episode of the It Matters podcast we are ending with a blast. I bring you a mix all into one episode. I want to highlight all my guests who made this years podcasts special. These conversations brought inspiration, wisdom, and life changing truths. Allow these reflections to help you spring forward into the New Year with confidence!

In this mash up episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez highlights some of the most impactful solo episodes of 2025! In this mix of episodes Walter explores the mindset required for effective leadership and personal growth. He discusses the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, challenging negative self-talk, and prioritizing rest to avoid burnout. He emphasizes the power of small, consistent habits and the need for self-awareness and presence. Walter encourages listeners to reflect on their routines, adopt healthy habits, and strive for alignment between values and actions. The mix of conversation highlights that sustainable leadership begins with self-care, intentional choices, and a commitment to ongoing personal development. Check this episode out to not only end your year well, but to start your New Year winning!

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter encourages listeners to reflect on where they’re investing their best energy, time, and focus as the year ends. Emphasizing that busyness doesn’t equal meaningful productivity, he urges a personal audit of priorities and challenges listeners to realign their efforts with what truly matters. Practical steps are offered to help redirect energy from draining distractions to core values and important relationships, inspiring intentional living and purposeful change before the new year begins.

In this episode of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Drawing from his own experiences as a father of two children with a rare liver disease, Walter emphasizes how authentic storytelling fosters empathy, connection, and hope. He encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and share both their struggles and victories, reminding them that every story has the potential to inspire and help others. The episode motivates listeners to lead with authenticity, break down barriers, and recognize the profound impact their stories can have on themselves and their communities.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores intentional leadership and the importance of "living in tension." The episode highlights how effective leaders honor their values, embrace discomfort, and navigate tensions like discipline versus desire, boundaries versus people-pleasing, and focus versus distraction. Listeners are encouraged to set clear intentions, lean into discomfort, and reflect on their growth. The episode offers practical advice for developing a purposeful mindset, elevating leadership skills, and using tension as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

In episode 100 of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez reflects on his journey to this milestone and shares key lessons about leadership and personal well-being. He emphasizes that leading well starts with living well—being healthy in mind and body, living authentically in alignment with one’s values, and embracing humanity through relationships and self-compassion. Walter encourages listeners to assess their own well-being and make intentional changes, highlighting that flourishing as a leader begins with caring for oneself. The episode is a thoughtful pause to inspire growth and intentional leadership.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez discusses the crucial habit of writing things down. Explaining the concept he refers to as 'Ink It', Walter highlights the neurological benefits of putting pen to paper, such as activating the reticular activating system (RAS), improving memory, and bridging the left and right hemispheres of the brain. He provides examples from successful leaders and companies to underscore the transformative power of writing. Walter encourages listeners to make writing a part of their daily routines, emphasizing how it can bring clarity, focus, and reduce anxiety. Ultimately, he aims to inspire leaders to harness this simple yet powerful practice to enhance their effectiveness and lead with intention.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores how to achieve lasting personal and leadership transformation from live events like workshops and retreats. He introduces the "CRACK" acronym—Commit, Reflect, Act, Change, Keep Going—as a practical framework to help listeners turn event inspiration into real, sustainable change. Walter emphasizes that true transformation happens when you bring lessons home, apply them consistently, and persist through challenges, ultimately inspiring growth in yourself and those around you.

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the metaphor "leaders take the stairs" to highlight the importance of discipline, hard work, and humility in leadership. He emphasizes that true leaders avoid shortcuts, lead by example, support their teams, and foster a positive environment. The episode encourages leaders to be present, listen, rest, and continuously grow, inspiring transformation in themselves and others. The overall message is to lead with intention, humility, and vision, creating lasting impact and a culture where everyone thrives.