Leap Academy with Ilana Golan

One day, while watching her baby somersault, Katrina Spade thought about how quickly time flies. Then it hit her like a ton of bricks that she would be in her 70s by the time he turned 40. This reflection sparked an interest in the funeral industry, ultimately leading her to design a new death experience. Despite facing legal hurdles and industry challenges, she founded the world’s first human composting company. In this episode, Katrina shares how she turned a simple grad school project into a groundbreaking business. She also highlights the key lessons she learned, from challenging norms to embracing big ideas.

Katrina Spade is the founder and CEO of Recompose, the world’s first human composting company. Combining her background in architecture with a deep respect for nature, she created an eco-friendly alternative to traditional funerals.

In this episode, Ilana and Katrina will discuss:

- How a grad school project sparked a revolutionary idea

- Balancing big ideas with practical execution

- Translating design skills into business 

- Telling your story to test your ideas

- Why ‘perfect’ is the enemy of ‘good’

- How she quit her job and funded her dream

- Attracting investors who believe in your vision

- Building a reputation with intention and strategy

- Breaking legal barriers to disrupt death care

- And other topics…

Katrina Spade is the founder and CEO of Recompose, the world’s first human composting company, which offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials and cremation. With a background in architecture and sustainable design, she created a groundbreaking method to transform human bodies into soil. In 2019, she successfully advocated for the legalization of human composting in Washington, and by 2020, Recompose had opened its first facility. Katrina has been featured in major outlets like NPR, Fast Company, and The New York Times. She is also a recipient of prestigious fellowships from Echoing Green and Ashoka.

Connect with Katrina:

Katrina’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-spade-37047439/ 

Katrina’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinaspade/ 

Resources Mentioned:

Recompose: https://recompose.life/ 

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-Beyond/dp/1594634726 

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Russ Ruffino spent his 30th birthday sobbing into his bourbon because he felt like a failure. He had spent the last decade bartending while clinging to his dream of becoming a movie star. So, how did he go from bartender to CEO of a $100 million business? He took his first step by applying his acting skills to writing persuasive sales copy. In this episode, Russ shares his incredible journey, offering lessons on leveraging unique skills, taking bold risks, and building a values-driven team to build a thriving business.

Russ Ruffino is the founder and CEO of Clients on Demand, a company that has generated over $100 million in revenue. He helps entrepreneurs, coaches, and consultants attract their ideal clients at the right price, anytime they want.

In this episode, Ilana and Russ will discuss:

- Translating his acting skills into compelling sales copy

- Taking the plunge into entrepreneurship

- Going from zero to $250K 

- Scaling from small offers to a $100M empire

- The problem with scaling too quickly

- Why marrying the right person is a superpower

- Building a solid team by focusing on mission

- Why your company needs a "no jerks" policy

- Accepting that obstacles will come

- His rule of thumb for firing people

- Why entrepreneurs need acting classes 

- Celebrating wins and enjoying the journey

- And other topics…

Russ Ruffino is the founder and CEO of Clients on Demand, a high-ticket sales company that has generated over $100 million in revenue by helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses. After struggling as an actor and bartender for a decade, Russ discovered online marketing. He took the plunge into entrepreneurship and today, he helps coaches, consultants, and service providers attract the right clients, at the right price, anytime they want. 

Connect with Russ:

Russ’s Website: https://russruffino.com/ 

Russ’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russruffino/ 

Resources Mentioned:

The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357 

The Ultimate Sales Letter: Attract New Customers. Boost your Sales. by Dan S Kennedy: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Sales-Letter-Attract-Customers/dp/1440511411 

How to Get Rich: One of the World's Greatest Entrepreneurs Shares His Secrets by Felix Dennis: https://www.amazon.com/How-Get-Rich-Greatest-Entrepreneurs/dp/1591842719 

Chris Voss excelled as a lead FBI international kidnapping negotiator. At the start of his career, he thought it was all about being tough and direct. But over time, he discovered the secret to cracking negotiations—tactical empathy. Today, he teaches business leaders how to read emotions, build trust, and avoid leaving money on the table. In this episode, Chris explains why empathy is a world-changing skill and shares tactics for getting what you want in business and life.

Chris Voss is a former FBI hostage negotiator with over two decades of experience in high-stakes crisis negotiations. He's the CEO of Black Swan Group and author of Never Split the Difference. 

In this episode, Ilana and Chris will discuss:

- How Chris became an FBI hostage negotiator

- Why empathy is the secret weapon in business and life

- Turning a “no” into a powerful negotiation tool

- Why decision-making is emotional

- The surprising power of vulnerability in negotiations

- “It's not what you say, it's how you say it”

- Why a positive frame of mind makes you 31% smarter

- How to get your boss to pay you more

- And other topics…

Chris Voss is a former FBI lead international kidnapping negotiator and expert in high-stakes negotiations. He is also the CEO of Black Swan Group and author of Never Split the Difference. With over 24 years of experience at the FBI, Chris negotiated some of the most challenging hostage situations. He represented the U.S. at G8-sponsored international conferences on kidnapping. Chris has received prestigious awards, including the Attorney General’s Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement. He has also taught negotiation in top MBA programs at USC, Georgetown, and Harvard, as well as lecturing globally. 

Connect with Chris:

Chris’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophervoss/  

Chris’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/fbinegotiator

Resources Mentioned:

Chris’s Book, Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-Negotiating-Depended/dp/0062407805 

Chris’s Documentary, Tactical Empathy: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21383310/ 

Chris’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7jHqdlFFDBhC1QIFqi54w  

Negotiation Mastery Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/negotiation-mastery-6998634991547006976/ 

Shawn Achor’s TED Talk, “The Happy Secret to Better Work”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLJsdqxnZb0 

The Talent Code: Greatness Isn't Born. It's Grown. Here's How. by Daniel Coyle: https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Code-Greatness-Born-Grown/dp/055380684X 

In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham and Dean Merrill: https://www.amazon.com/Presence-My-Enemies-Gracia-Burnham/dp/0842381392 

Before building a global snack empire, Anne Beiler’s dream was to have her own family like the loving one she grew up in. Like a fairytale, she met the man of her dreams. But years later, she found herself stuck in a place of darkness after tragically losing her daughter and enduring years of abuse. Through this pain, however, Anne found a new purpose. With no money, no formal education, and no business plan, she started the iconic pretzel brand, Auntie Anne’s. In this episode, Anne shares powerful lessons on resilience, leadership, and embracing life’s obstacles.

Anne Beiler is the founder of Auntie Anne's, the world's largest pretzel franchise, with over 2,000 locations in more than 25 countries. She now dedicates her time to speaking and writing, teaching others how to overcome tough times, be strong leaders, and find purpose in life, even through pain.

In this episode, Ilana and Anne will discuss:

- How Anne’s background shaped her work ethic and values

- Scaling her pretzel stand into a global brand

- Balancing personal pain with building a business

- Staying grounded under pressure

- Why your people are your greatest asset

- Lessons Anne learned while growing her franchise

- How vulnerability became her strength

- Anne’s advice for thriving through tough times

- Building a lasting legacy through business

- The power of purpose in achieving success

- Why authentic leadership matters 

- And other topics…

Anne Beiler is a self-made entrepreneur and the founder of Auntie Anne’s, the globally recognized pretzel franchise. Raised in an Amish-Mennonite family, Anne faced devastating personal challenges, like losing her daughter and enduring years of abuse. She started her business to support her husband’s vision of providing free family counseling. Despite having no business plan or formal education, she scaled Auntie Anne’s into a multimillion-dollar business. Her franchise now spans over 25 countries with over 2,000 locations. Today, Anne speaks globally on overcoming adversity, leadership, and the role of faith in business. 

Connect with Anne:

Anne’s Website: https://auntieannebeiler.com/ 

Anne’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auntieannebeiler/  

Early in his career, Scot was told that he wasn’t “tough enough” for the media industry. He didn’t fit the traditional image of a hard-nosed executive. But instead of changing who he was, Scot embraced his own authentic style of leadership, ultimately proving that enthusiasm and a focus on collaboration are just as powerful for success. He went on to lead groundbreaking marketing campaigns for major networks like CNN and HLN. In this episode, Scot shares his leadership lessons from building a successful career by staying true to himself.

Scot Safon is a seasoned media executive who led marketing and branding efforts for major networks like CNN, HLN, and The Weather Channel. Known for overseeing award-winning marketing campaigns, he now consults for top brands, helping to shape their marketing strategies.

In this episode, Ilana and Scot will discuss:

- Turning passion into a career advantage

- Embracing your true self in a tough industry

- Scot’s rise to leading CNN’s marketing

- Building a career without industry connections

- Staying resilient when facing setbacks

- The importance of collaborative leadership

- How to empower teams and inspire creativity

- Turning failures into growth opportunities

- How Scot controls panic attacks while speaking publicly

- Balancing creativity with business demands

- Building a career that aligns with your passion

- Finding fulfillment in a competitive industry

- And other topics…

Scot Safon is a seasoned media executive known for his leadership roles at major networks like CNN, HLN, and The Weather Channel. As Chief Marketing Officer of CNN, he oversaw award-winning campaigns for programs like Anderson Cooper 360 and Larry King Live. Under his leadership, CNN's marketing efforts during major events such as the 2008 Presidential Elections and Hurricane Katrina received critical acclaim. Later, as the President of HLN, Scot revamped the network, leading to its growth through shows like Morning Express with Robin Meade. He also served as EVP and CMO of The Weather Channel, where he further honed his expertise in media branding. Today, he consults for major brands, helping companies shape their marketing strategies through his extensive experience in media and branding​.

Connect with Scot:

Scot’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotsafon/

Fascinated with science as a young child, Kira Radinsky was driven to make a meaningful impact on the world through technology. She faced rejection after rejection while building her first startup, but her resilience paid off when eBay acquired the company. Kira didn’t stop there—she developed AI models that successfully predicted cholera outbreaks in Cuba and today, she continues to push the boundaries of AI and healthcare. As inspiring as her journey is, it’s been far from easy. In this episode, Kira shares the lessons she’s learned about resilience, pushing past rejection, and scaling startups.

Kira Radinsky is the CEO and CTO of Diagnostic Robotics, known for her pioneering work in AI and predictive analytics. She gained global recognition for developing models that forecast major events, earning her recognition on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 and MIT Technology Review's 35 Innovators Under 35.

In this episode, Ilana and Kira will discuss:

- How Kira built her first company despite major challenges

- How AI is transforming global healthcare

- The mindset shifts that fuel entrepreneurial success

- Turning failures into career-defining moments

- How to push forward when no one believes in your vision

- Making bold leaps in a male-dominated industry

- Staying committed when the path gets tough

- Lessons from selling a startup to eBay

- The power of persistence in scaling a business

- Finding opportunity in uncertainty

- Leveraging data to predict and prevent crises

- Navigating risk and uncertainty with confidence

- And other topics…

Kira Radinsky is the CEO and CTO of Diagnostic Robotics, an AI-driven healthcare company. Known for her groundbreaking work in data mining and predictive analytics, she gained international recognition for developing predictive models that forecast global events like disease outbreaks and political unrest, including predicting a cholera outbreak in Cuba. Kira began her studies at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology at just 15 years old, later earning her PhD. She co-founded SalesPredict, an AI-driven company that was acquired by eBay in 2016, where she served as Chief Scientist and Director of Data Science. She has been honored in Forbes' 30 Under 30 and has been named one of MIT Technology Review's 35 Innovators Under 35.

Connect with Kira:

Kira’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kira-radinsky/ 

Resources Mentioned:

Diagnostic Robotics Website: https://www.diagnosticrobotics.com

Frustrated by how women’s voices were being ignored in the corporate world, Sally Helgesen started documenting the leadership styles of successful women. Her efforts culminated in the groundbreaking book, The Female Advantage, which changed the course of her career. Despite the uncertainty, Sally left her dream job for the male-dominated space of leadership coaching and speaking. Today, she is recognized as the world’s premier women’s leadership expert. In this episode, Sally shares powerful leadership lessons and offers actionable advice on pushing past fear, dealing with pushback, and staying committed to your mission.

Sally Helgesen is an internationally recognized expert in women’s leadership. She has authored several books, including her latest, Rising Together. Sally has been inducted into the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame and her work has appeared in The New York Times and Fortune, among others.

In this episode, Ilana and Sally will discuss:

- Why you must act before you feel ready

- How women’s leadership styles differ and why they matter

- How Sally’s frustration became a career-changing mission

- Navigating pushback while staying focused

- Discomfort as a catalyst for growth

- The evolving definition of good leadership

- Why success hinges on staying mission-focused 

- Sally’s tips for building a tough skin  

- Following your gut when making big decisions

- Strategies for building credibility in new, uncertain environments

- Why inclusive leadership benefits everyone, not just women

- Pushing past fear to seize golden opportunities

- And other topics…

Sally Helgesen is a speaker, coach, bestselling author, and internationally recognized expert in women’s leadership. She has authored several books, including her latest, Rising Together, and the bestseller, How Women Rise, co-authored with Marshall Goldsmith. She has worked with organizations worldwide, from Microsoft to The World Bank Group, to cultivate inclusive cultures. Sally’s groundbreaking work has appeared in The New York Times, Fortune, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She has also been inducted into the Thinkers50 Hall of Fame, honoring her significant contributions to the field of leadership and management worldwide.

Connect with Sally:

Sally’s Website: https://sallyhelgesen.com/ 

Sally’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallyhelgesen/ 

Resources Mentioned:

The Female Advantage: Women’s Ways of Leadership: https://www.amazon.com/Female-Advantage-Womens-Ways-Leadership/dp/0385419112 

How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back from Your Next Raise, Promotion, or Job: https://www.amazon.com/How-Women-Rise-Breaking-Behaviors/dp/0316440124

Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace: https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Together-Divides-Inclusive-Workplace/dp/0306828308 

The Female Vision: Women's Real Power at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Female-Vision-Womens-Real-Power/dp/1576753824 

The Web of Inclusion: Architecture for Building Great Organizations: https://www.amazon.com/Web-Inclusion-Architecture-Building-Organizations/dp/1587982773 

Brian Tracy went from struggling with a series of menial jobs to achieving remarkable sales success. A relentless self-learner, he transformed his life by mastering the science of sales. Then, he dedicated himself to studying, researching, writing, and speaking in the fields of economics, history, business, philosophy, and psychology. Today, he is a legendary self-development expert and world-renowned bestselling author. In this episode, Brian shares his top principles and strategies for unlocking your full potential in both life and business.

Brian Tracy is the Chairman and CEO of Brian Tracy International. He is a prolific businessman, renowned speaker, and bestselling author of over 80 books, including his latest, The 32 Unbreakable Laws of Money and Success.

In this episode, Ilana and Brian will discuss:

- Brian’s journey to sales mastery

- The skill that transformed Brian’s career

- The power of sticking to goals

- How to crush “excusitis” and start achieving your dreams

- Small daily actions that double your income over time

- The 3x3x3 hiring method for building your dream team 

- Brian’s guaranteed method to 10x your productivity

- How he developed a $3M shopping center from nothing

- The secret to fast-tracking your career

- Why there’s no shortage of money

- And other topics…

Brian Tracy is a speaker, bestselling author, and the Chairman and CEO of Brian Tracy International. He trains and develops individuals and organizations to achieve their personal and business goals faster and easier. Before founding his company, Brian was the Chief Operating Officer of a $265 million development company. He has had successful careers in sales and marketing, investments, real estate development and syndication, importation, distribution, and management consulting. Brian has spoken and delivered seminars to millions of people across the world. He has authored over 80 books, including bestsellers, Eat That Frog and The Success Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires. His latest book, The 32 Unbreakable Laws of Money and Success was released in June 2024.

Connect with Brian:

Brian’s Website: https://www.briantracy.com/ 

Brian’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brian-tracy-international/ 

Resources Mentioned:

Brian’s Books:

The 32 Unbreakable Laws of Money and Success: Transform Your Life and Unlock Your Unlimited Potential: https://www.amazon.com/Unbreakable-Laws-Money-Success-Transform/dp/1523007001 

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time: https://www.amazon.com/Eat-That-Frog-Great-Procrastinating/dp/162656941X 

The 21 Success Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires: How to Achieve Financial Independence Faster and Easier than You Ever Thought Possible: https://www.amazon.com/Success-Secrets-Self-Made-Millionaires-Independence/dp/0369307534 

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331 

Kelly Roach built a seven-figure side hustle before leaving her corporate role. How did she do it despite an intense workload and failed product launches? Strategic planning, smart time management, and an unyielding drive fueled by a childhood embarrassment on the free lunch line. In this episode, Kelly shares her inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of patience, persistence, and the willingness to take imperfect action.

Kelly Roach is a business coach, CEO, podcast host, and bestselling author. Before launching her multimillion-dollar business, she worked at a Fortune 500 company, rising to become its youngest VP. 

In this episode, Ilana and Kelly will discuss:

- The defining moment that fueled her ambition

- Juggling multiple jobs in college

- Her transition from NFL cheerleader to corporate leader

- Why entrepreneurs must embrace imperfect action

- The importance of mental toughness  

- Her transition from corporate to entrepreneurship

- Staying motivated through failures

- The importance of investing in coaching

- Effective time management for side hustlers 

- Financial strategies for entrepreneurs

- And other topics…

Kelly Roach is a business coach, CEO, podcast host, and bestselling author of Conviction Marketing and The Live Launch Method. She rose from an entry-level sales position at a Fortune 500 company to become its youngest VP. While working full-time, she started her multimillion-dollar company, Kelly Roach Coaching. Kelly is also the creator of the Live Launch Method, a simple launch strategy that leverages timeless business principles to help entrepreneurs consistently generate six-figure results. She is regularly sought after as a coaching expert by several news outlets.

Connect with Kelly:

Kelly’s Website: https://kellyroachcoaching.com/ 

Kelly’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kellyroachinternational/ 

Resources Mentioned:

Kelly’s Podcast, The Kelly Roach Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kelly-roach-show/id  

Even when met with skepticism, Geoff Smart pushed forward with his vision to transform hiring through powerful data-driven methods. He created the WHO Method through his leadership consulting firm, emphasizing drive and cultural fit over skills. This approach not only brought success to his clients but also propelled his firm to global success. In this episode, Geoff reveals the key strategies behind the WHO Method, including how to prioritize drive over skills and ensure cultural alignment in hiring.

Dr. Geoff Smart is the Chairman and Founder of ghSMART, a top leadership consulting firm serving Fortune 500 CEOs, boards, and entrepreneurs. He is a New York Times bestselling author and renowned expert on hiring and leadership, dedicated to helping leaders achieve extraordinary results through smart team building.

In this episode, Ilana and Geoff will discuss:

- Cracking the code to hiring superstar talent

- Why drive outshines talent in every scenario

- How to build a culture that accelerates growth

- Interview techniques that reveal true potential

- Success predictors most leaders overlook

- Leadership secrets that cultivate a winning culture

- How consistency can skyrocket your career

- Emotional intelligence as a leadership superpower

- Setting boundaries that fuel success

- The WHO method for flawless hiring

- And other topics…

Dr. Geoff Smart is the Chairman and Founder of ghSMART, a leadership consulting firm serving Fortune 500 CEOs, boards, billionaire entrepreneurs, and heads of state worldwide. A sought-after expert in hiring and leadership, he co-authored the New York Times bestselling books Who, Leadocracy, and Power Score. Under his leadership, ghSMART has earned recognition as a top consulting firm, known for its client impact and employee satisfaction. 

Connect with Geoff:

Geoff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgeoffsmart/ 

Resources Mentioned:

SMARTtools for Leaders: https://geoffsmart.com/smarttools/ 

ghSMART: www.ghsmart.com

Geoff’s Books: 

Who: https://www.amazon.com/Who-Geoff-Smart/dp/0345504194 

Power Score: Your Formula for Leadership Success: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Score-Formula-Leadership-Success/dp/0345547357  

Leadocracy: Hiring More Great Leaders (Like You) into Government: https://www.amazon.com/Leadocracy-Hiring-Great-Leaders-Government/dp/1608322882