Lead to Succeed

Do you ever feel like you’re busy all the time but not making real progress? What if the key to achieving more isn’t doing more, but simplifying how we work?
In this episode, Lisa Bodell unpacks the importance of cutting through the clutter to focus on what truly drives value, helping us trade busyness for meaningful impact.

Lisa, founder of FutureThink, is a globally recognized expert on simplifying work and driving innovation. She is the author of Why Simple Wins and Kill the Company, both bestsellers that emphasize replacing unnecessary complexity with simplicity to allow people to focus on impactful work. Her insights have influenced top organizations, including Google, SAP, Citigroup, and the U.S. Department of National Intelligence. A frequent Forbes contributor, Lisa’s expertise has also been featured in Fast Company, Wired, The New York Times, and Harvard Business Review. She has taught innovation at American University and Fordham University, and her TED Talk on simplification resonates with thousands each year. Through FutureThink, one of the world’s largest sources for innovation tools, Lisa’s work empowers teams to improve productivity, engagement, and well-being by shifting focus to what matters most.

[02:21] More about Lisa’s journey.

[04:57] Lisa’s approach to uncover true value and reframe the idea of staying busy.

[07:45] What Lisa means by “simplification” and why is it so critical.

[09:30] Specific questions Lisa advises leaders to assess if their work and processes drive progress.

[11:40] Lisa’s advice for people feeling stuck in environments where they can’t challenge unnecessary work.

[15:44] The link between "simplification" and "morale" and Lisa’s advice for leaders to boost workplace morale.

[19:10] How a new leader can uncover true morale, understand genuine feelings, and start driving progress.

[22:41] What leaders should be aware of to achieve simplification.

[25:52] Lisa’s biggest mistake and how she grew from it.

[27:04] Rapid-fire questions.

[30:39] Lisa’s final life lesson.

“People will work really hard if they’re doing meaningful work.”

“Think about what you can stop doing versus what you can start.”

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What does it mean to truly understand our priorities in life? In a world filled with distractions and demands, how do we uncover what genuinely matters to us? In this episode, our guest Matt Shenker shares his insights on the journey of self-discovery and the importance of aligning our lives with our core values. 

As a licensed professional counselor, meditation teacher, and behavior scientist since 2016, Matt has trained thousands of therapists, educators, and managers on how to harness the greatest learnings from behavior science from the last century. Matt is the creator of Empowered Well-being Theory—a transdisciplinary biopsychosocial spiritual model for understanding human well-being. As a framework, that work serves as a foundation for the work Matt does as Chief Solutions Architect, COO, & Cofounder at MatterMore. At MatterMore, they’re working to empower the future of work—what they call Work 4.0.

[02:11] More about Matt’s journey.

[06:22] Matt’s perspective on legacy and his tips for leaders to build effective and intentional systems.

[12:14] What Steward of Purpose truly looks like.

[16:14] Top behavioral science insights to transform companies and leaders in the 21st century for a meaningful workplace impact.

[17:52] Matt’s key ingredients for developing trust.

[21:01] Matt’s perspective on effective communication in business.

[26:34] How Matt guides people to find balance and focus so they can nourish all aspects of themselves and avoid the feeling of emptiness.

[30:20] Matt’s biggest mistake that positioned him for future success.

[33:03] Rapid-fire questions.

[36:00] Matt’s final life lesson.

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Have you ever felt overwhelmed by conflict, unsure of how to navigate the tension without sacrificing your values or relationships? What if conflict didn’t have to be a barrier, but instead, an opportunity for growth and connection?

In this episode, we dive deep into these important questions with our guest, Jose Ucar, as he shares strategies for turning conflict into a powerful tool for transformation and success.

Jose is an international communication and influence expert with over a decade of experience working with businesses such as Procter & Gamble and SEAT-CUPRA. His actionable strategies for business leaders expose hidden barriers to effective communication, bridge cultural gaps, ignite positive influence and amplify global impact. Jose is the author of bestseller book ‘Global Influence,’ a TEDx speaker and host, a professional speaker, a leadership and communication trainer, a speaking coach, and founder of Jose Ucar Ltd. His writing has been featured on Yahoo Finance and Yahoo News, Disrupt Magazine, LA Weekly and The Influencer Age.

[03:37] How Jose got to where he is today.

[06:44] Jose's definition of impact and influence, along with real-life examples of what these look like when a leader effectively embodies them both for themselves and their team.

[09:47] The type of conflict that Jose is encouraging, the purpose behind it, and how it can be guided toward a positive resolution.

[13:16] Jose’s hidden cultural barriers in global business communication and the insights on how leaders can effectively navigate and manage these challenges.

[16:36] Jose’s favorite techniques for leaders to improve their communication and influence.

[20:40] The story behind Jose’s book and why it's a must-read for anyone looking to pick up a copy.

[23:05] The most common mistake people make in public speaking, along with a key tip that can instantly boost confidence and help them stay focused.

[24:55] Jose’s perspective on the distinction between authenticity and integrity, along with examples of leaders who embrace a more authentic life and lead from a place of authenticity.

[27:01] Jose’s biggest mistake and how it prepared him for success.

[28:02] Rapid-fire questions.

[30:25] Jose’s final life lesson.

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In a world that often encourages us to “fake it until we make it,” what’s the real value of leading with authenticity? How can loving what we do transform not only our work but also those we lead? In this episode, we explore the importance of embracing who we truly are in leadership with our guest, Rabbi Daniel Lapin. 

Daniel Lapin, known widely as America’s Rabbi, is a noted rabbinic scholar, best-selling author and TV host. He is president of the American Alliance of Jews and Christians, author of America’s Real War, Thou Shall Prosper and other best-sellers. A frequent guest on Fox News, WallBuilders Radio, and Glenn Beck TV, he hosts his own popular radio and podcast programs with audiences world-wide. Pairing his inheritance as a descendant of a multi-generational rabbinical family with his background in science and business, he teaches ancient Jewish wisdom in an unparalleled manner.

[02:25] More about Rabbie Daniel’s journey.

[11:45] Why building a sense of community and interconnectivity is crucial for leaders, and Rabbi Daniel’s expert tips for them to develop in this area. 

[20:03] The link between elevating work through proceeds to support family and charity.

[28:13] Core principles from Jewish Wisdom that Rabbi Daniel finds most relevant to modern business and leadership.

[31:21] Common financial mistakes people make and Rabbi Daniel's advice on how to fix them.

[37:09] Rabbi Daniel’s biggest mistake that set him up for greater success.

[41:49] Rapid-fire questions.

[46:18] Rabbi Daniel’s final life lesson.

“When we don’t work for the money, we’re looking for opportunities to serve other people.”

“Teach yourself to love people.”

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Effective leadership demands a return to our human roots. How can leaders embrace a human-first approach to foster meaningful connections, drive organizational goals, and inspire their teams? In this episode, our guest Richard Atherton explores how leading with humanity can unlock breakthrough potential and transform our approach to leadership within organizations.

Richard is a Partner at FirstHuman, a business coaching firm that helps CEOs, leaders, and top executives achieve leadership breakthroughs and organizational goals with a human-first approach. Its clients include Adidas, Volkswagen, Heineken, PwC, UNICEF and the Olympics.

Richard has nearly 10 years of expertise in leadership development and has helped numerous clients achieve significant personal and professional breakthroughs. His own background of overcoming multiple addictions and personal traumas has been crucial in shaping his passion for humanizing the leadership culture within organizations. He was notably involved in helping leaders at the logistics company CEVA close a $400M profitability gap. He is also the host of the Being Human podcast that provides insights on leadership and well-being and reaches 11.9K subscribers.

[02:13] More about Richard’s journey.

[11:55] How Richard integrates therapy into his coaching services when necessary.

[13:54] The main reasons people turn to Richard for support, and how he communicates the value of coaching to those unfamiliar with its importance.

[18:13] What Richard means when he says he helps top executives achieve leadership breakthroughs and organizational goals through a human-first approach.

[20:42] Richard’s guidance for a leader on how to start the journey of self-introspection.

[25:16] Richard's perspective on organizational culture and his recommendations for leaders seeking to enhance it within their businesses.

[32:10] Rapid-fire questions.

[36:43] Richard’s final life lesson.

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What makes a business truly thrive? Is it the strategy, the products, or the people behind it? In today’s episode, we dive deep into the essential role that people and culture play in shaping the success of any organization. Our guest, Meny Hoffman, shares his insights on why building a strong company culture is not just a leadership buzzword but a crucial foundation for long-term business growth.

[01:59] Meny’s story.

[08:06] Understanding the definition and difference between marketing and branding—and why these services matter.

[14:05] Key considerations Meny recommends to help people focus on their branding direction.

[17:45] The biggest mistakes leaders make in branding and marketing from a strategic leadership perspective.

[25:22] How Meny empowers his people to be more conscientious—and why some leaders hesitate to do the same.

[31:44] Meny’s advice for gaining clarity and making informed decisions on what to focus on.

[35:14] Meny’s biggest mistake that set him up for future success.

[37:57] Rapid-fire questions.

[40:53] Meny’s final life lesson.

“Change your habits one step at a time.”

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In moments of struggle and uncertainty, seeking help can be a pivotal step toward healing and growth. But why is it often so challenging to reach out for support, and how can embracing assistance transform our lives? In this episode, our guest Dennis Franczak explores the profound importance of seeking help when we need it most.

[02:44] More about Dennis’ journey.

[08:21] The advice Dennis would give to his younger self focuses on adopting better habits and making changes that promote sustained business success.

[13:36] More about Dennis' approach in helping others uncover their true drivers and core motivators.

[17:02] Which of Denni’s expertise lights him up more: adversity or business strategies?

[25:40] Dennis’ advice for those who don’t feel naturally strategic.

[34:28] Dennis’ biggest mistake and what he learned from it.

[37:45] Rapid-fire questions.

[40:22] Dennis’ final life lesson.

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Have you ever found yourself standing at the edge of a decision, uncertain of what’s on the other side? What does it take to push beyond fear and take that leap, even when the outcome is unclear?

In this episode, we dive into the mindset of a risk-taker with our guest, Terracina Maxwell, who encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown in pursuit of greater rewards.

[01:53] More about Terracina’s journey.

[08:36] Terracina's thoughts on shifting from serving large corporations to small businesses, and her advice on seizing every opportunity.

[16:03] Terracina’s perspective on mindset.

[20:53] Terracina shares insights on how acquisitions impact onboarding and the importance of creating cohesion. 

[26:48] Terracina’s biggest mistake that set her up for future success.

[30:16] Rapid-fire questions

[33:35] Terracina’s final life lesson.

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How can adversity shape our journey to success? When faced with life's toughest challenges, how do we turn pain into power? In this episode, our guest Justin Winstead shares his powerful story of battling cancer and transforming that experience into a driving force for positive change and influence. 

From a challenging rural upbringing, Justin transformed adversity into a springboard for success. After college, he worked in student ministry and church planting before launching into business endeavors, including oil and gas, real estate, and a multi-million-dollar insurance agency. With over 20 years in business and leadership and as a cancer survivor, Justin's journey epitomizes the power of faith, purpose, and vision. Passionate about personal growth with the goal of serving others, he's committed to enriching people through his insights.

As an executive coach, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and the founder of Improver Group, Justin aims to make the world a better place by helping leaders, entrepreneurs, and their teams improve personally and professionally.

Justin has a new book titled "Become an Improver: A Challenge to Escape Average and Unleash Greatness."  The book will be released October 1, available wherever books are sold.

[02:31] How Justin got to where he is today.

[08:38] The key challenges people come to Justin with, and how he guides them from feeling stuck to developing a fresh, empowering mindset.

[12:19] The importance of embracing responsibility in leadership rather than living life in default.

[16:23] How leaders can expand their influence.

[26:07] Justin’s biggest mistake that set him for future success.

[28:55] Rapid-fire questions.

[34:04] Justin’s final life lesson.

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Have you ever found yourself stuck in a situation, held back by fear of the unknown? What does it really take to break free from what's familiar, even if it's uncomfortable, and embrace the possibility of something greater?

In this episode, we explore these transformative questions with our guest, Dr. Shirley Davis, as she challenges us to "stop living in our known hell because there's an unknown heaven."

Shirley is president and CEO of SDS Global Enterprises, a strategic development solutions firm that specializes in human resources strategy; talent management; leadership effectiveness; culture transformation; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Dr. Davis has worked in more than 30 countries on 5 continents and delivers more than 100 speeches a year to a wide range of industries, sectors, and sizes. She continues to consult, coach, and train leaders at all levels, including Corporate CEOs, C-Suite executives, and Board of Directors.

Shirley is the author of several books, including: Living Beyond "What If?": Release the Limits and Realize Your Dreams, Reinvent Yourself: Strategies for Achieving Success in Every Area of Your Life, and the first-ever Diversity, Equity & Inclusion For Dummies, which was published in January 2022 by the global publishing company, John Wiley & Sons. Her latest book, Inclusive Leadership For Dummies, was also published by Wiley and released in May 2024.

[03:04] More about Dr. Shirley’s journey.

[07:40] Dr. Shirley’s advice for people who are dissatisfied with their current situation to embrace the present while actively exploring new opportunities.

[11:13] How Dr. Shirley helps individuals break free from limiting mindsets by creating a vision that inspires action and empowers them to change their path.

[15:33] Dr. Shirley’s insights on why people often neglect self-reflection, and the strategies she offers to encourage deeper, more meaningful reflection.

[19:25] Would Dr. Shirley recommend joining an organization with strong culture but weak leadership, or one with strong leadership but weak culture, assuming all other factors are equal?

[21:20] A belief Dr. Shirley holds firmly, even though few others may agree with her perspective.

[24:22] Dr. Shirley’s biggest aha moments during her speeches.

[28:12] The power of storytelling.

[29:20] Dr. Shirley’s biggest mistake that set her up for future success.

[31:04] Rapid-fire questions.

[33:29] Dr. Shirley’s final life lesson.

“Every place you go, every person you encounter, and everything that you do, leave it better than the way you have found it.”

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