Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way

Ever encountered a situation where you felt out of place because of systemic biases? Join Alex for a profound conversation with CB Bowman-Ottomanelli, a master executive coach, who shares her eye-opening experiences with corporate racism. Raised in a diverse and inclusive environment, CB was blindsided by the harsh reality of racial discrimination when she stepped into the corporate world. Through powerful narratives and personal stories, she shares how she navigated these challenges with courage, resilience, and grace.

Discover how effective communication and the wisdom to choose battles can transform experiences of confrontation into opportunities for growth. By reflecting on her journey of opening a company and seeking advice from trusted voices, CB illustrates the importance of empathy in addressing discrimination. CB and Alex unravel the complexities of corporate diversity, examining real-world examples like the varied reactions to George Floyd's death and the significance of racially charged symbols. These stories reveal the courage required for constructive conversations about race and inclusion.

As the duo explores the nuanced evolution of corporate racism, CB's insights highlight the critical difference between genuine courage and performative diversity efforts. From navigating workplace promotions to fostering true allyship, CB and Alex emphasize the need for continuous learning and empathy. Dive into the intricacies of systemic biases, the manipulation of numbers, and the importance of having a diverse personal board of directors. Gain actionable strategies from CB's experiences and her book, "Courage to Leap and Lead," to build a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment.

CB on LinkedIn
Courage Consulting
Courage to Leap and Lead Podcast
Courage to Leap and Lead on Amazon

Is there a secret to discovering our passion? Listen to Alex's conversation with Ernesto Mandowsky, the brain behind the Million Dollar Machine, who shares his incredible journey from the world of hospitality technology to entrepreneurship. Discover how Ernesto’s book, “NewBee,” helped him discover his true passion and better appreciate the experiences along the way. His unique perspective focusing on genuine aspirations over job titles is a must-hear for anyone seeking clarity in their professional life.

Ernesto opens up about the significant role of mentorship and reflection in achieving success. Through a heartfelt story about a mentor he met in college, Ernesto explains how dedication and commitment can attract the right kind of support. During the conversation, Ernesto and Alex discuss the importance of having a clear vision for your life and how to balance leadership with being a supportive team player. Ernesto offers advice on balancing work and personal fulfillment with practical, actionable steps for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

Learn from Ernesto’s experiences writing a book and the pivotal moment when he chose between a stable career and an entrepreneurial path. His insights on financial discipline, goal-setting, and an enterprising mindset provide invaluable tips for both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners.

Ernesto on LinkedIn
Million Dollar Machine
NewBee on Amazon

Join us on this episode of Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way, for a conversation with leadership coach and best-selling author, Rick Torrison. Rick's journey to break free from his limiting beliefs and embrace his authentic self will inspire you to question the "normal" in your own life.

Rick and Alex dig into the cultural and generational influences that shape mental health and perceptions of our own behaviors. From the "stiff upper lip" mentality to the more open conversations sparked by the pandemic, they discuss how these factors can create workplace conflict and hinder personal growth. This episode encourages you to reflect on whether the norms in your life truly benefit you, or if you're accepting beliefs about yourself that actually hold you back.

Is it easier to act yourself into a new way of thinking? Or think yourself into a new way of acting? During the conversation, Rick and Alex explore the relationship between belief structures and behavior change. They discuss the importance of aligning beliefs with actions while sharing practical insights and anecdotes to recognize self-destructive patterns and achieving lasting change. Rick reinforces the importance of redefining past experiences and having a clear vision to bridge the gap between your current reality and your desired destination.

This episode is packed with actionable tips for overcoming limiting beliefs, fostering a culture of authenticity, and achieving both personal and organizational growth. Don't miss this impactful discussion on ways to reshape your views of yourself and the world around you.

Rick on LinkedIn
Rick on Instagram
Buy Rick's Book: Born Limitless

Do you ever feel like you have to do it all on your own?

Entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist Markus Kaulius joins Alex in an inspiring discussion to shatter the myth of solo success and share how he learned to lean on others in this episode of Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way.

Even if we know the 'lone wolf' mentality doesn't work, we don't always know where to turn to for guidance. Markus and Alex explore the cultural, generational, and personal influences that shape the relationship between confidence, ego, and willingness to ask for help. Markus recounts his own struggles early in life trying to find the voices that spoke to him. Do mentors have to be in your field or industry? Can you only learn from those who are less successful than you? Do you even have to know someone to consider them a mentor? Markus answers a resounding no to all of the above. He and Alex talk about the importance of staying teachable and being open to new insights while also having the strength to tune out a message, or a messenger, that isn't right for you.

But listening and learning isn't enough. Success comes from taking action. Markus and Alex discuss strategies to build sustainable habits, focusing on the importance of starting small — with our health, career, or personal relationships.

Tune in to hear a thoughtful examination of the habits that shape our lives, and how nourishing your curiosity can make all the difference on the path to success.

Markus on LinkedIn
Markus on Instagram
Playabiggergame.com
Pre-order Play a Bigger Game: Seven Universal Principles to Experience True Fulfillment and Win at Life

When the reins of control slip from our grasp, it's a startling revelation that can make or break a leader. James Kaikis, a tech entrepreneur, founder, and Chief Solutions Officer sits down with Alex to share his personal evolution from a micromanager to an empowering leader in the latest episode of Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way.

James opens up about critical moments that reshaped his management philosophy, like a frank critique from a company executive and a family vacation that turned into a lesson on trust.  Throughout their conversation, James and Alex shed light on the art of hiring capable individuals and the benefits of leaders stepping back to let their teams shine.

Ever found yourself wondering how to elevate a struggling team member without micromanaging? James and Alex's back and forth reveal an approach that favors empathy and structured support over "old school" supervision. James's experiences are a playbook for those dealing with underperformers as he offers his tried-and-true strategies to transform potential into excellence. His perspective is a testament to the power of a transparent, supportive workplace where every individual feels valued and driven to succeed.

Tune in for a conversation that balances the emotional weight of leadership with the tactical finesse of managing a team. From the nuances of feedback culture to the parallels between business and sports, James's insights span the full spectrum of guidance and mentorship in a fast-paced professional environment. His reflections on entrepreneurship, risk-taking, and the trials of forging one's path are filled with wisdom and heart. It's a conversation that will inspire you to embrace your vulnerabilities as strengths and lead with purpose. Join Alex for an honest exploration into the transformative power of letting go.

James on LinkedIn
GTMshift Website
TestBox Website

Join Alex Culley in an impactful episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way," as he sits down with Dr. David L. Schreiner, President and CEO of Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital in Dixon, Illinois, and author of the bestselling book, “Be the Best Part of their Day – Supercharged Communication with Values-Driven Leadership.” Dr. Schreiner shares a profound lesson he learned the hard way: the power of gratitude in leadership.

Drawing from his extensive experience in healthcare leadership and academia, Dr. Schreiner provides practical advice and inspiring anecdotes listeners can apply to their own leadership journeys. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Schreiner emphasizes the positive impacts of consistently giving positive feedback and appreciation to those we work with. The pair discuss ways to improve communication through listening, how to be a values-driven leader, and the importance of consistent self-reflection.

Tune in to "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way" to hear Dr. David Schreiner share his wisdom and insights on the power of gratitude in leadership. Subscribe now to access this conversation and other episodes that offer practical advice for personal and professional growth!

Dr. David Schreiner on LinkedIn
Dr. David Schreiner's Website
Be The Best Part of Their Day: Supercharging Communication with Values-Driven Leadership on Amazon

In this episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way," host Alex engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Ellen Leggett, an applied psychologist and pioneering trial consultant with over 35 years of experience in the field. Dr. Leggett shares a profound lesson she learned the hard way: not allowing fear to hinder personal and professional growth.
 
Drawing from her rich background in higher education administration, consulting, and entrepreneurship, Dr. Leggett shares keen insights into overcoming fear and challenges. The conversation covers  a range of topics including growth mindset, learning, entrepreneurship, risk, intuition, innovation, and organizational change.

As the founder and President of Leggett Jury Research, a successful trial consulting practice, Dr. Leggett is nationally recognized for her expertise in assisting trial lawyers and witnesses in complex, high-stakes cases. Her work has been featured in national newscasts on ABC, NBC, CBS, and CNN, and she has published numerous articles in prestigious publications on jury psychology and legal strategy.

Listeners will gain valuable takeaways from Dr. Leggett's experiences and expertise as she shares practical advice on embracing growth and navigating challenges. Her career trajectory—from academia to entrepreneurship—serves as a testament to the importance of having resilience and a growth mindset in achieving success.

Tune in to "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way" to hear Dr. Ellen Leggett share her wisdom and insights on overcoming fear in this inspiring episode. Subscribe now to access this conversation and other episodes that offer practical advice for personal and professional development!

Dr. Ellen Leggett on LinkedIn
Leggett Jury Research Website

Join host Alex in an enlightening conversation with Jim Kouzes, a world-renowned author, decorated educator, and influential thought leader in the field of leadership. With a career spanning over 50 years, Jim has amassed a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he shares in this episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way."

Jim shares two key lessons he learned the hard way: the importance of seizing every teachable moment and the power of storytelling to craft compelling presentations. Drawing from his experiences public speaking in front of audiences large and small, Jim offers practical advice on how to effectively communicate ideas through storytelling and engaging presentation techniques. Throughout the conversation, Jim emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and owning mistakes to build trust. He shares captivating stories of his own experiences and those of leaders he has observed that show what the best speakers to do make an impact on the audience. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the art of storytelling, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and the importance of active listening for effective communication. Jim's vast experience and engaging style make this episode a must-listen for current and aspiring leaders alike.

Tune in to "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way" to hear Jim Kouzes share his wisdom and insights on leadership, teaching, and the power of storytelling in this inspiring episode. Subscribe now to access this conversation and other episodes that offer practical advice for personal and professional growth!

Jim Kouzes on LinkedIn

Jim Kouzes' books on Amazon

Pixar in a Box: The Art of Storytelling

During this episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way," host Alex sits down with the dynamic Dan Braker, President and Founder of Breakthrough Research, a Los Angeles-based market research firm. Dan brings over 25 years of experience in market research and consumer insights to the conversation, sharing his invaluable take on the indispensable role of a strong team and organizational culture to build a successful business. Dan's impressive career has solidified him as an innovative problem solver and trusted collaborator, specializing in crafting compelling, data-driven stories about consumer motivation and intention. As the founder and driving force behind Breakthrough Research, he has worked with international clientele, Fortune 500 companies, and household brands, helping them create meaningful change in their communication to customers and achieve their business objectives.

In this engaging discussion, Dan and Alex delve into the intricacies of creating and sustaining a robust organizational culture. They explore the challenges and strategies involved in maintaining a strong culture, particularly in the evolving landscape of remote work. Dan shares his wealth of experience and provides practical advice for entrepreneurs, touching on risk-taking, empowering employees, and finding the delicate balance between delegation and control. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of fostering a positive and cohesive team dynamic, drawing from Dan's expertise in both market research and academic research in learning and behavioral psychology.

Tune in to this episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way" for an enlightening conversation on the critical elements of team building, organizational culture, and the strategic nuances of business success. Subscribe now to gain access to this valuable discussion and other episodes that offer practical wisdom for entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts alike!

Dan Braker on LinkedIn
Breakthrough Research on LinkedIn
Breakthrough Research Website

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way"! Join your host Alex Culley in a thought-provoking conversation with two exceptional guests—internationally acclaimed author and leadership pioneer, Ken Blanchard, and trust expert Randy Conley, who share insights from their lives and their new co-authored book, "Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook: A 52-Week Game Plan for Becoming a Trusted Servant Leader"

Ken Blanchard, the founder and Chief Spiritual Officer of Blanchard, is recognized globally as one of the most influential thinkers in modern leadership. With a legacy that includes "The One Minute Manager" and more than 60 other books which have been translated into over 42 languages, Ken is a bestselling author and an Amazon Hall of Famer. His contributions to management and leadership have earned him prestigious awards, including the National Speakers Association's Council of Peers Award of Excellence and the HRD Hall of Fame by Training magazine. Randy Conley, the Vice President and Trust Practice Leader at Blanchard, co-author of "Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook," is a recognized authority in the fields of trust and leadership. Randy's work extends to organizations worldwide, helping them build and restore trust in the workplace. An award-winning blogger and highly sought after speaker, Randy's expertise is recognized by Trust Across America, Inc.com, and the American Management Association.

In this episode, Ken and Randy share personal experiences with feedback, touch on overcoming challenges and responding to insights that are tough to hear. Ken reflects on feedback from his early career about his writing skills, while Randy recounts a moment when he lost his cool in response to feedback from his team, detailing how he rebuilt trust with authenticity and humility. The trio explores essential topics like ego, self-advocacy vs. self-promotion, hero worship, and effective strategies for giving and receiving feedback. The conversation is a treasure trove of wisdom, offering practical insights that listeners can apply to their own leadership journeys.

Don't miss this episode of "Learning the Hard Way the Easy Way," where Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley share their invaluable experiences and expertise on leadership, feedback, and the path to personal and professional growth. Subscribe now and join us for a conversation that will inspire and empower!

Ken Blanchard on LinkedIn
Randy Conley on LinkedIn
Blanchard website
Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook: A 52-Week Game Plan for Becoming a Trusted Servant Leader on Amazon