Lets Have This Conversation

Lets Have This Conversation

By Kevin McShanNewsDaily News
Download on the App Store

Lets Have This Conversation episodes

  • Hollywood, Sci Fi, and the Future of Space — A Conversation with Dan Deevy

    What does it mean to build truly inclusive futures—both here

    on Earth and beyond the stars?

    In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of

    representation, storytelling, and leadership with Dan Deevy, a producer, host,
    journalist, and nonprofit founder who has spent more than 25 years advocating
    for inclusion across Hollywood, science fiction, and the space industry.

    The conversation is grounded in timely and sobering

    realities: over three‑quarters of LGBTQ+ adults say they would view a company
    less favorably if it abandoned its DEI commitments; 16% of LGBT workers report
    experiencing workplace discrimination or harassment; and barely more than half
    of gay actors feel safe being open about their sexuality with their agents.
    According to research from the SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild
    – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.)

    At the same time, a strong majority of Americans (69% to

    72%) believe continued leadership in space exploration is essential—raising
    an important question: Who gets to be included as we shape humanity’s
    future among the stars?

    Dan shares how fandom, science fiction, and community‑driven

    storytelling can be powerful tools for cultural change. As the founder of
    GAAAYS IN SPAAACE and the creator of the Galactic Diversity & Inclusion
    Convention, Dan works to ensure underrepresented voices are not only seen but
    celebrated—in speculative worlds and real‑world industries alike. His advocacy
    has reached global audiences, including a recent address to the United Nations
    General Assembly on the importance of universal equality as humanity expands
    into space.

    This episode is a hopeful, challenging, and inspiring

    discussion about safety, visibility, and belonging—and how inclusive leadership
    today can help build stronger, more welcoming communities for everyone
    tomorrow.

    For more information: https://www.dandeevy.com/

    Follow: @gaaaysinspaaace

    Discover More: https://www.gaaaysinspaaace.org/#di-con-2024

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr 31 min
  • When You Lose Your Curiosity, You Lose the Ability to Be Objective with: Chip Scholz

    Approximately 39% to

    55% of American professionals, including executives and specialists, regard
    their occupation as central to their personal identity. (Gallup)

    CEO

    and C-Suite Demand for Support: Research conducted in 2026
    revealed that 85% of CEOs expressed
    the need for enhanced personal and professional support during periods of
    organizational change. (McKinsey & Company)

    Widespread

    Need for Assistance: Although only 13% of leaders’ overall
    report preparedness for managing change, additional studies show many seek
    specialized resources, such as executive coaching and tailored transition
    strategies, to effectively navigate these challenges. (Forbes)

    Chip Scholz is an internationally recognized executive

    coach, author, and leadership strategist. His methodical approach and profound
    insights are anchored by five core principles: context, clarity, conditioning,
    choice, and character. For nearly three decades, Chip has collaborated with
    leaders and organizations facing transition, uncertainty, and growth. Earlier
    experiences in sales, management, and public affairs provided him with
    firsthand understanding of how identity often becomes intertwined with roles,
    titles, and recognition. A layoff later in his career prompted a significant
    transition, leading him to establish his own coaching practice and shift focus
    towards usefulness rather than status.

    Chip’s writing emphasizes the progression of leadership and

    personal development. His published works explore phases of self-leadership,
    the practical application of learned principles, and ultimately, the process of
    relinquishing control and redefining identity. Across his books—*Small
    Decisions, Big Shifts*, *Every Dog Has Its Day*, and *Handoffs*—he consistently
    highlights that transformative moments typically occur quietly and
    incrementally, requiring thoughtful responses.

    Contrary to popular belief, significant life changes seldom

    happen in dramatic events; they emerge through gradual shifts in perception,
    behavior, and willingness to adapt. Chip addresses how subtle decisions and
    turning points contribute to evolving identity. His work examines the journey
    from action to understanding, understanding to lived experience, and
    eventually, letting go of outdated patterns.

    Through narratives about work, family, and unforeseen

    disruptions, Chip illustrates that clarity is achieved progressively, one
    decision at a time. His leadership philosophy is centered around the concept of
    believing you either lead a transformation or manage a demise.

    For additional information:  https://scholzandassociates.com/

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    56 min
  • Joe Dillon: People Know How to Argue They Don’t Know How to Negotiate

    Mediation: High

    Success Rates

    Mediation demonstrates remarkable effectiveness, with

    studies indicating that approximately 75% to 90% of cases achieve a
    settlement. Typically, 60%–80% of cases are resolved on the day of mediation,
    while an additional 10%–20% settle soon after. This high rate of success
    extends to both commercial and family disputes, particularly those overseen by
    the Civil Mediation Council.

    Joe Dillon offers a distinctive blend of expertise and

    experience. As a divorce mediator, he draws upon his background as a financial
    expert educated at Harvard and MIT, complemented by his personal experience as
    a child of divorce. This combination gives him valuable insight into the
    factors that lead to family breakdowns, as well as the strategies that help
    maintain strong relationships. Joe’s approach to mediation prioritizes more
    than just asset division; it focuses on creating agreements that safeguard
    emotional wellbeing and provide financial clarity for all parties involved.

    Joe’s path to becoming a respected authority in divorce

    mediation is rooted in both his personal life and his academic achievements.
    His expertise is further demonstrated through the success of Equitable
    Mediation Services, which consistently achieves resolution rates well above
    industry averages. Joe has been a leader in online mediation since 2011 and is
    recognized by prominent platforms such as Newsweek and Forbes for his
    contributions to the field.

    In addition to his practical experience, Joe has made

    significant contributions as a trainer for the New Jersey Association of
    Professional Mediators (NJAPM) and Northwestern University's 40-hour divorce
    mediation courses. He has also served as a judge in international mediation
    tournaments and was chosen as the commencement speaker for California State
    University, San Marcos, Class of 2025.

    Joe Dillon’s commitment extends beyond helping couples

    navigate separation. He is passionate about equipping individuals with
    practical strategies to avoid the common pitfalls that lead to divorce. His
    knowledge offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to strengthen their
    relationship or manage challenging transitions.

    For more information: https://www.equitablemediation.com/

     

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr 4 min
  • Helping Leaders Gain Clarity & Direction in Their Decision-Making with Kurt Bush

    Widespread Distress: 59% of leaders admit to

    facing a "decision dilemma" (not knowing what to decide) more than
    once a day. (Robert Half.)Underappreciated: A 2024 survey cited
    by Harvard Business Review found that over half of
    employees feel only "somewhat valued" (46.4%) or "not valued at
    all" (10.7%). 

     

    According to Simon's university institute of inclusive

    leadership, The Consistency Gap: Despite the high self-reporting, less than 25%
    of leaders show authenticity consistently, and only 1 in 5 (20%) are considered
    consistently authentic by observers. What does this tell us about workplace
    culture in America today?

     

    Do you often feel exhausted, overworked, and still

    overlooked for recognition or promotion? Or constantly juggling your
    responsibilities while hiding fears, insecurities, or self-doubt? These
    challenges aren’t just frustrating; they’re costing you confidence, influence,
    and career growth. Each day spent feeling invisible or unsupported chips away
    at your motivation, leaving your potential untapped and opportunities slipping
    away.

    Kurt Bush is a certified Internal Family Systems

    Practitioner, trauma-informed coach, and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching
    Group. With a background spanning corporate leadership, pastoral ministry, and
    coaching, Kurt helps leaders break free from self-doubt, embrace authenticity,
    and lead with confidence. Having overcome his own struggles with imposter
    syndrome, Kurt is passionate about guiding others through transformational
    growth and into authentic leadership. Through Brimstone’s unique E + R = T approach
    (Encounter + Reflection = Transformation), Kurt equips individuals and teams to
    move from exhaustion and frustration to clarity and wholeness. He is also the
    co-host of The Brimstone Coaching Podcast, where he and his coaching partner
    explore leadership, personal growth, and breaking through barriers. 

     

    For more information: https://www.brimstonecoachinggroup.com/

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr 2 min
  • How Do We Get Calm? We Breathe with: Pennie Wilson

    Daily Usage:  Most

    people try to regulate their emotions on a daily basis by adjusting their
    emotional expressions, which include facial expressions, tone of voice, and
    body posture. 

     

    High Frequency of Application:  Emotion regulation is frequently observed

    during both high points (43% of the time) and low points (73% of the time)
    throughout daily life. 

     

    Stress and Emotional Impact:  According to a survey by the American

    Psychological Association, 84% of U.S. adults have experienced at least one
    emotion linked to prolonged stress, such as anger, sadness, or anxiety. 

     

    Most high-capacity, high-functioning adults do not need more

    motivation; they need the ability to remain calm under pressure.

     Pennie Wilson, a

    Mental Fitness Trainer and creator of the Kokoro Calm Repatterning Method™,
    empowers parents, teachers, and leaders to train their minds to stay calm under
    stress so they can respond with clarity rather than react impulsively.

    Her approach is grounded in personal experience. After years

    of appearing to function well on the outside while feeling overwhelmed
    internally, Pennie realized that true change comes not from acquiring more
    tools, but from training the nervous system to remain calm. Today, she teaches
    simple, practical skills that foster steady self-trust and aligned leadership
    in everyday life. 

     

    For more information, visit: https://kokorocreators.com/

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    53 min
  • Kelly McGinnis Emphasizing Confident Leadership, Work Life Balance, & Clarity Amid Corporate Noise

    While 69% of American employees consider work-life balance

    "very important," only approximately 53–54% of chairpersons and CEOs
    report the same, often emphasizing "harmony" or
    "integration" rather than traditional work-life balance, according to
    Fortune Magazine.

    Prioritizing Balance:

    Job

    Selection: Work-life balance is a core consideration for 73% of
    employees when evaluating new job opportunities. (Global Banking and Finance
    Review)

    As

    CFO and President at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Kelly McGinnis exemplifies a
    hands-on approach to leadership that aligns with contemporary workplace
    priorities. Under her direction, innovative global digital initiatives
    generated over $1 billion in new revenue through bold subscription models,
    driving impressive annual growth of 15% by blending strategic acumen with
    emotional intelligence.

    Kelly has established a reputation for cultivating

    organizational cultures centered on trust, ownership, and mentorship—key
    drivers for creativity and performance. She actively challenges outdated
    paradigms of success by promoting confident leadership, work-life balance, and
    clear communication within corporate environments. Her perspectives on
    strategic decision-making and empowering emerging leaders, including
    millennials and Gen Z, are widely recognized.

    With extensive experience leading organizations to

    outperform market benchmarks, Kelly draws on disciplined growth strategies and
    people-centric cultures. Having worked across both Fortune 50 companies and
    agile startups, she understands how to build scalable, sustainable businesses.
    Her consistent focus involves assembling high-performing teams, creating
    frictionless systems, and aligning talent, partnerships, and commercial
    objectives with impactful outcomes. This approach has enabled organizations under
    her leadership to achieve more than 10% profitable growth annually, far
    surpassing standard industry rates.

    Kelly’s efforts extend beyond margin improvement; she

    emphasizes the importance of reshaping a company's financial and operational
    foundations, clarifying decision-making processes, instilling accountability,
    and enabling cross-functional teams to translate strategy into effective
    execution—factors essential for lasting performance. In an environment
    characterized by uncertainty and short-term thinking, she advocates for
    leadership grounded in clarity and intentionality. Her five-rule leadership
    model fosters cultures where excellence is a collective standard.

    Recognized

    for converting potential into tangible enterprise value, Kelly believes that
    with the right mindset and system, any team can deliver exceptional results,
    and organizations of all sizes can realize their full potential.

    For more information: https://leadwithkelly.substack.com/

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    49 min
  • Broadcast Your Brand & Businesses' Stories with Congruence, Courage, & Clarity on Podcast Interviews

    According to LinkedIn, approximately 33% of

    business owners consider podcasts a high priority for brand growth, with 31%
    launching a show within their company's first year. While only about 27% of B2B
    marketers currently use podcasts, 78% of businesses using them report that podcasts
    meet or exceed their ROI expectations, often acting as a key engagement tool too.

    Adoption Rate: Roughly a quarter (25%) of

    business owners rank podcasting as their top content priority. (Adobe)

     

    Kimberly Spencer is the founder of Crown Yourself® and CEO

    of Communication Queens, certified high performance business coach &
    visibility strategist, international TEDx speaker, and bestselling author of
    the multiple-award-winning book, "Make Every Podcast Want You: How to Be
    So Radically Interesting You'll Barely Keep from Interviewing Yourself"
    named on of the "Top Books to Change Your Life in 2024." From her
    entrepreneurial beginnings at five, selling bags of glitter-water to her
    neighbors, to becoming an award-winning screenwriter, certified Pilates
    instructor, Miss Congeniality, and having a successful exit as president of an
    e-commerce company, Kimberly is proof that it's better to make your own mold
    than to conform to someone else's. With 2X multiple award-nominated top
    podcasts for her businesses, Crown Yourself® and Communication Queen, Kimberly
    is elevating the conversation for visionary leaders to get their voices heard.
    A warrior for human's infinite possibility and an unsinkable optimist, this mom
    of three-to-be, is on a quest to revolutionize mindsets from fear to faith so
    that you stand out, centerstage in your light. Her work has been featured on
    over 250+ podcasts, and on Netflix, ESPN, CNBC, Forbes, and soon, on Daymond
    John's Next Level CEO TV Show.

     

    -

    For More Information: https://www.crownyourself.com/podcast

    Discover More: https://www.crownyourself.com

    Get the Book: https://www.communicationqueens.com/book

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr 21 min
  • Coaching Top Professionals in High-Performance Habits & Aligned Success with Zoe Thompson:

    Mindset and Decision-Making**: A report by TalentLMS and

    Epignosis reveals that 96% of executives believe they embody a growth mindset.
    Furthermore, 89% of senior leaders agree that the success of future businesses
    relies on leaders who adopt this mindset.

     

    My name is Zoë Thompson, and I am a Master Coach and

    leadership coaching specialist with over two decades of experience in
    high-pressure leadership roles. As a former senior police leader, elite
    athlete, and successful business owner, I now focus on executive coaching and
    leadership development for established leaders and business owners looking to
    enhance their impact throughout the UK.

     

    I help my clients achieve 'Aligned Success' by mastering the

    mindset, strategy, and habits necessary to elevate their performance without
    compromising their values, wellbeing, or freedom. I developed the PIIPS
    Framework for Aligned Success, which guides clients through five key pillars:
    Plan, Identity, Intention, Performance, and Structure. This framework helps
    build sustainable and aligned success in all areas of life.

     

    With more than 20 years of experience in the police,

    including senior leadership and business change roles, I have gained deep
    insights into leading under pressure, managing complex challenges, and
    navigating career transitions. I particularly support ambitious professionals,
    especially those transitioning out of public service, who are ready to redefine
    success on their own terms.

     

    Since leaving the public sector in 2017, I have trained as

    an NLP Master Coach and Executive Coach, and I am an Accredited Master Coach
    with the Association for Coaching. My global coaching practice is rooted in
    both lived experiences and professional expertise. As a single parent, former
    international strong woman competitor, and female leader in a male-dominated
    environment, I bring a powerful blend of resilience, authenticity, and
    results-focused coaching to every conversation. I speak from firsthand experience
    and provide practical tools for individuals ready to step confidently into the
    next phase of their lives.

     

    For more information, visit

    [zoethompson.uk](https://www.zoethompson.uk/) 

    LinkedIn: @ZoëThompson

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min
  • Living An Abundant Life Through Social and Human Connection with Carl Grant III

    Research from Barna and C12 Business Forums shows

    that 51% of "Faith-Forward" CEOs consider faith a major motivation in
    leadership. A survey by Houston Christian University found that 74% of
    Christian business leaders rely on spiritual practice for decision-making and
    63% look to scripture for guidance.

    Carl Grant III is an experienced leader in professional

    services business development, having worked with AM Law 50 firms and a Big
    Four accounting firm. He led Cooley LLP's business development team for 20
    years, contributing to $1.7B in annual revenue growth, and drove a 33% market
    share increase at PricewaterhouseCoopers. Grant also doubled venture funds as
    part of Fairfax County Economic Development Authority and currently serves as
    Chairman and CEO of Cyrulion, Inc. He is a founding board member of the Austin
    Venture Association, an Army veteran, best-selling author, and has degrees from
    Indiana University and Harvard Business School.

    As a Christian business leader and founder of Bridges of

    Faith, Carl helps integrate faith, purpose, and leadership, advising executives
    on building trust and results without sacrificing values. His work includes
    promoting respectful Muslim–Christian dialogue, peacemaking, and living out
    faith with integrity. Married for 31 years with five adult children, he brings
    practical insights on faith both at home and in leadership roles.

    --

    Follow: @carl.grant.iii

    Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/Live-Abundant-Life-Carl-Grant/dp/1637351941#:~:text=%22How%20to%20Live%20the%20Abundant,to%20live%20their%20best%20life.%22&text=%22Thoughtful%2C%20accessible%2C%20and%20compelling

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr 1 min
  • Delivering the Science of High Performance without the hype with Aaron Hines

    Longevity and fitness are increasingly high priorities for

    Americans, with recent data indicating that nearly 84% of U.S.
    consumers consider wellness (including physical health and longevity)
    a top or important priority, according to McKinsey & Company.

     

    Based on a survey by AARP and Forbes, 93% of adults aged 50

    and older in the United States reported that regular exercise would help them
    live longer and healthier lives. Additionally, 81% of U.S. adults are willing
    to spend money to increase their longevity.

    Aaron Hines is a personal trainer and fitness coach who is

    focused on helping adults 45+ and athletes perform at their best — in sport, in
    life, and for life.

     

    Aaron Hines is a multifaceted professional — known locally

    as The Mayor of Fitness — whose mission is to help people move better, feel
    better, and live stronger. A devoted husband to Amanda and proud father to
    Lincoln and Stetson, Aaron blends family, faith, and fitness into everything he
    does. A three-time bestselling author and nationally recognized personal
    trainer, Aaron has become one of the most trusted names in health and
    performance across Middle Tennessee. A former collegiate football player at Lambuth
    University, Aaron’s passion for performance started on the field. He earned his
    degree in Health and Human Performance from the University of Tennessee at
    Martin and went on to complete a Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Florida
    State University.

    Over the past 15 years, he’s added more than a dozen elite

    certifications, including EXOS Sports Performance Specialist, NASM-FNS, and
    NASM-YES. As the Founder of Premier Performance Training in Brentwood, TN,
    Aaron specializes in helping adults over 45 lose weight, move pain-free, and
    rediscover their confidence through science-based, personalized training.

    His team also works with elite athletes — including NFL Hall

    of Famer Bruce Matthews, former Tennessee Titan Michael Archie, and PGA Tour
    professional Brandt Snedeker — to elevate their performance and longevity.

    Aaron’s leadership has earned recognition throughout the

    community, including being named one of Nashville’s Top Personal Trainers
    (2020) and leading a facility honored as Best Gym in 2020, 2021, and 2023.

     His insights have

    been featured in Franklin Lifestyle Magazine, WebMD, Nashville Fit Magazine,
    and top podcasts like The Hit Streak with Nick Hiter. Whether you’re an athlete
    chasing your next level or an adult ready to take control of your health,
    Aaron’s approach is simple — you bring the commitment, and he’ll bring the
    plan.

    For more information: https://premierperformancetrainer.com/

    Instagram: @premierperformancetn

     

     

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min

About Lets Have This Conversation

From the publisher's feed

Multimedia Journalist and Motivational Speaker Kevin McShan brings you a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional YouTube Podcast called: “Let’s Have This Conversation. The intention is to provide a large…