Mission First People Always's podcast

What if your morning cup of coffee could help transform someone's life? In this unforgettable episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Jenny Barber—survivor, leader, and co-founder of Talitha Coffee—for a conversation that will change the way you think about business, leadership, and human dignity.

Jenny's personal journey from surviving child exploitation to founding a thriving, purpose-driven company is nothing short of extraordinary. With over 140 employees and 9 coffee shops, Talitha Coffee is more than a business—it's a movement of healing, hope, and tangible restoration for survivors of trafficking.

In this episode, Jenny opens up about the meaning behind the name "Talitha," how her personal pain fuels her mission, and how she's built a people-first company that integrates business with deep compassion and purpose. Whether you're a business leader, social advocate, or someone looking to live with more intention—this episode will inspire you to lead with courage and heart.

This episode is a reminder that one person's story—when paired with vision and bold leadership—can change countless lives. Hit play now to hear Jenny's powerful journey and discover how your leadership can be a vehicle for healing, justice, and lasting impact.

• Jenny's story of overcoming child exploitation and stepping into leadership
• The biblical and emotional meaning behind the name "Talitha"
• How Talitha Coffee grew from a vision to a multi-location mission
• What the Talitha Care Network provides for survivors (job training, housing, healthcare & more)
• How personal mission shapes leadership style and decision-making
• Practical ways to support the anti-trafficking movement through your everyday choices

Links for This Episode:

• https://talitha.com/mikepatterson
• https://www.instagram.com/talithacoffeeroasters
• https://www.instagram.com/jennybarber22

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 – Introduction: From survival to social impact
• 01:48 – Meet Jenny Barber: Advocate, leader, and founder
• 03:10 – Jenny's personal story of overcoming exploitation
• 07:25 – Why she launched Talitha Coffee
• 10:44 – The meaning behind the name "Talitha"
• 13:02 – How the Talitha Care Network supports survivors
• 16:35 – From vision to 9 thriving coffee shops
• 20:15 – Challenges of growing a people-first business
• 23:20 – Leadership lessons from lived experience
• 26:00 – Trauma-informed culture in the workplace
• 29:12 – The power of purpose-driven teams
• 32:44 – How listeners can support Talitha's mission
• 35:00 – Final thoughts: Leading with courage, empathy, and hope

Have you ever noticed that stress, anxiety, and burnout feel more common than joy these days? What if you could embrace simple habits that make your days lighter, more meaningful, and yes — even more joyful? In this heartfelt and practical conversation, Dr. Mike Patterson talks with Ricardo Viso, a global entrepreneur who's survived cancer, loss, and hardship and emerged with one clear mission: to help people infuse joy into everyday life — at work and at home.

In this episode, Ricardo Viso — speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of the Joyful Living Lounge — shares his story of resilience and reinvention. Despite losing his mother at a young age, battling cancer, and overcoming some of life's toughest challenges, Viso has learned that choosing joy is one of the most powerful decisions you can make.

He walks us through why joy is different from happiness and why focusing on daily joyful habits can radically shift your outlook. Ricardo also introduces his RIC method — Recognize, Identify, Consciously shift — a simple, powerful tool to make joy a part of your everyday experience.

Together, they explore:

• Why most adults wait for hardship to appreciate the present
• The role of leadership in creating joyful workplaces
• How small habits like choosing a favorite song as your morning alarm can change your day
• Why practicing joy is a skill — one you can grow like a muscle

Whether you lead a team or simply want to bring more light into your own life, this episode is filled with practical strategies and encouragement.

✅ Joy is a Choice: Focus on small, meaningful habits — like listening to uplifting music or laughing with a friend — to infuse your day with joy. ✅ Shift Stress Mindfully: Recognize stress, pause, and consciously reframe your thoughts to focus on what brings you joy. ✅ Workplace Impact: Encouraging joy at work improves team morale, productivity, and retention. ✅ The RIC Method: Recognize what you want to change, Identify what brings you joy, and Consciously practice it. ✅ Embrace Fun: Adults deserve permission to smile, laugh, and play — even at work!

Ricardo Viso reminds us that joy isn't something we wait for — it's something we practice every single day. With practical advice like his RIC method and his encouragement to embrace fun at any age, this conversation will inspire you to look at your habits, mindset, and work culture in a whole new light.

🎧 Hit play to discover these powerful insights, and then take action — choose one joyful habit to practice today. Ready for more encouragement? Join Viso's Joyful Living Lounge on Facebook and connect with a community that celebrates joy every day! (Links below!)

Links for This Episode:

• Website: https://www.experienceviso.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ricardoviso
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ricardo.viso
• Instagram: experience_viso

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 – Welcome & introduction to the episode
• 03:00 – Ricardo Viso's powerful story of resilience
• 08:00 – Happiness vs. Joy: What's the real difference?
• 12:00 – The RIC method explained 17:00 – Stress and the small habits that shift your mindset
• 23:00 – Joy at work: Why leaders need to encourage happiness on their teams
• 29:00 – How hardship shapes our appreciation for joy
• 35:00 – Personal habits that help you embrace joy every morning
• 39:00 – Final practical tip & wrap-up

Let's face it—"follow-up" doesn't always have the best reputation. It can feel pushy, annoying, or just like one more thing on your to-do list. But what if follow-up wasn't about pestering people… and instead became one of the most powerful tools you have to show care, build trust, and lead with integrity?

In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with renowned sales expert Doug C. Brown to reframe everything you think you know about follow-up. Doug shares why this essential practice is about more than just closing a deal—it's about strengthening relationships, delivering value, and showing others that they matter.

Doug C. Brown, CEO of CEO Sales Strategies, brings over 40 years of sales leadership to the table. He's worked with brands like Tony Robbins, CBS, and Procter & Gamble, built 35 businesses, and helped generate over $900 million in sales. But at the heart of his success is a simple principle: effective, personalized follow-up builds relationships—and relationships drive results.

In this conversation, Doug explains why follow-up should be part of every leader's toolkit. Whether you're managing a team, building a business, or simply aiming to serve others better, consistent and thoughtful follow-up creates connection, increases retention, and unlocks new opportunities.

You'll hear real-world stories about how follow-up has led to massive referrals, strengthened loyalty, and even closed six-figure deals. Doug also shares how poor follow-up costs companies thousands (if not millions) and reveals how you can avoid those losses with just a few intentional habits.

• Follow-Up = Leadership: It's not about pestering—it's about showing respect, accountability, and care.
• ABR: Always Be Building Relationships: Forget the old ABCs of sales—lasting relationships are what lead to lasting results.
• Why People Don't Buy Immediately: Emotional, logistical, and trust-related factors often delay purchases—follow-up bridges the gap. Multimodal Matters: Effective follow-up isn't just about phone calls—it's texts, emails, handwritten notes, and more.
• Three-a-Day Rule: Want to change your business? Follow up with just three people a day. That's 1,000+ meaningful connections a year.

Whether you're a business leader, a coach, or a team builder—this episode will challenge you to rethink how you engage the people around you. If you want to build stronger relationships, increase trust, and lead with more integrity, it starts with simple, consistent follow-up.

Hit play now to learn how to put Doug's "3-a-day" method into practice and start seeing results in your business and your life.

Links for This Episode:

Social Links

• Website (CEO Sales Strategies): https://ceosalesstrategies.com
• Vibitno: https://vibitno.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dougcbrown123
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougbrown123
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dougcbrown_
• Upcoming Masterclass: http://ceosalesstrategies.com/stoptheleak

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 – Introduction and redefining sales for leaders
• 03:00 – Doug's origin story: learning sales at age 5
• 07:00 – Why sales is leverage—and a noble profession
• 09:00 – Reframing follow-up as a leadership and relationship tool
• 12:00 – How follow-up is like calling after a great date
• 14:00 – Personal story: surgeon follow-up vs. hospital silence
• 16:00 – The impact of consistent contact on referrals
• 19:00 – Forget "Always Be Closing"—try "Always Be Building Relationships"
• 21:00 – Emotional and psychological barriers to buying
• 24:00 – Unethical vs. ethical selling: trust and transparency
• 29:00 – The hidden cost of poor follow-up and missed sales
• 32:00 – Real-life example: the realtor who earned the business
• 36:00 – Why multi-modal follow-up (text, email, snail mail) works
• 40:00 – Doug's challenge: follow up with 3 people a day
• 44:00 – Final thoughts and how to put relational follow-up into practice

What if leadership was less about the boardroom and more about the octagon? In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson welcomes Clifford Starks—former UFC fighter turned performance coach—for a knockout conversation on mastering mindset, resilience, and leadership under pressure. From climbing into the cage to helping business leaders find their flow, Clifford shares hard-won wisdom that will challenge and inspire you.

Clifford Starks knows what it means to face fear head-on—literally. With a 14-5 professional fighting record and a relentless drive for excellence, Clifford has transitioned from mixed martial arts to leadership coaching with one mission: to help others unlock their fullest potential.

In this conversation, Clifford walks us through his incredible journey from collegiate wrestler to UFC fighter and now to trusted business consultant. He introduces the Fighter's Formula—a 6-step framework for leadership and performance—and explains how aligning the mind, heart, and skill is the true key to flow and fulfillment.

Cliff dives deep into mental toughness, sharing how he reframed fear, transformed losses (including a high-profile knockout on live TV), and now teaches others to do the same in boardrooms and businesses. Leaders will walk away from this episode with practical tools for building confidence, asking better questions, recovering from setbacks, and creating lasting impact—not just success.

• Reframe Fear: Anxiety and excitement feel the same in the body—how you interpret them makes all the difference.
• The Fighter's Formula: Align your mind, heart, and skills for sustainable success and flow.
• Ask Better Questions: "What do you really want?" and "What happens if I don't take action?" spark transformation.
• ABCs of Leadership: Agreements, Boundaries, and Communication build trust and improve performance.
• Resilience Redefined: Even after devastating setbacks, leaders can return stronger, wiser, and more impactful.

Ready to lead like a fighter—with clarity, confidence, and resilience? Don't miss this powerful conversation with Clifford Starks. Whether you're facing business setbacks or simply want to unlock your full potential, this episode is packed with mindset shifts and practical tools to help you perform at your best.

Hit play now to hear how a former UFC fighter turned leadership coach is helping high-performers win in business and life—and how you can too. 🥊🔥

Links for This Episode:

• Newsletter -https://fearlessfighterx.com/warriorsreport
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clifford-starks
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/clifford.starks.3
• Fearless Fighter Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/VgfzsSdxnUEHwLdq/?mibextid=A7sQZp

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 – Welcome and Dr. Mike's first professional athlete guest
• 03:00 – Clifford's journey into the UFC: From grief to greatness
• 06:00 – Practice, fundamentals, and perfect reps in sport and life
• 08:00 – The excitement vs. anxiety mindset shift
• 10:00 – Fighting as a stage to teach love and intentionality
• 11:30 – Clifford's ABCs: Agreements, Boundaries, and Communication
• 14:00 – The power of asking: "What do you really want?"
• 19:00 – The Fighter's Formula: Mind, Heart, and Skill
• 23:00 – Bouncing back after a knockout loss on live TV
• 27:00 – Rewriting the narrative and dealing with internal stories
• 30:00 – "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face"
• 33:00 – Who Clifford serves: High-performers building a legacy
• 35:00 – Why love and listening go hand in hand in leadership
• 38:00 – Final challenge: What happens if you don't take action?

We've all heard Peter Drucker's famous quote, "Culture eats strategy for breakfast." But what does it really take to build a workplace culture that drives both people and performance? In this episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with culture expert Andrea Wanerstrand to uncover the key elements of creating a thriving, human-centric workplace.

Dr. Mike welcomes Andrea Wanerstrand, Founder & CEO of A3 CultureLab, a leadership speaker, coach, and consultant who helps organizations—from startups to Fortune 500 companies—design extraordinary workplace cultures. With a background in global performance management at companies like Microsoft and T-Mobile, Andrea shares insights on fostering a workplace where people feel valued, autonomous, and accountable.

Andrea breaks down what it means to have a human-centric workplace, emphasizing the importance of how work gets done, how leaders make others feel, and how trust is built. She explains that culture isn't just about perks or policies—it's about how people interact, communicate, and show up every day.

Throughout the conversation, Andrea offers practical advice for leaders, including how to balance empathy with authority, create autonomous teams, and encourage a culture of accountability without fear. She also shares details about her upcoming coaching program, Mindset Maven, designed to help high-achievers develop mental and physical resilience.

• Culture is about the "how," not just the "what"—how work is done, how people feel, and how trust is built.
• Human-centric leadership requires balancing empathy with authority to foster both people and performance.
• Autonomous teams thrive on accountability—leaders must set expectations, provide trust, and encourage transparency.
• Accountability isn't a bad word—it's about taking ownership, getting credit for success, and learning from setbacks.
• Your energy affects your leadership—Andrea recommends an energy audit to identify when you're at your best and schedule key conversations accordingly.

Andrea Wanerstrand's insights remind us that leadership is about creating environments where people can thrive. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned executive, understanding and shaping culture is key to long-term success. Hit play to hear the full episode and learn how to build a workplace culture that supports both people and performance!

Links for This Episode:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawanerstrand
• Company Website: http://a3culturelab.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreawanerstrand

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 02:00 - Why Culture is the Driving Force Behind Organizational Success
• 04:02 - Defining Workplace Culture: The "How" Behind Every Organization
• 06:00 - Why Leaders Struggle to Build Healthy Cultures
• 08:06 - The Role of Emotional Awareness in Leadership
• 10:34 - The Shift from Individual Contributor to Leadership: What Changes?
• 12:48 - How to Build an Autonomous Team and Why It Matters
• 15:17 - Balancing Empathy and Authority as a Leader
• 18:00 - Overcoming Barriers to Authenticity at Work
• 21:09 - Why Accountability is Not a Negative Word (And How to Use It Effectively)
• 24:36 - The Importance of Psychological Safety in Workplace Culture
• 26:00 - What It Means to Have a Human-Centric Workplace
• 28:25 - Introducing Mindset Maven: Andrea's New Leadership Coaching Program
• 30:14 - Andrea's One Key Piece of Advice for Leaders
• 32:00 - Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Andrea

Ever dreamed of writing a book but felt overwhelmed by the process? In this episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Danielle Hutchinson, Chief Creative Officer at Authors on a Mission, to uncover the secrets to writing a book that not only connects with readers but also elevates your brand, grows your business, and creates multiple income streams.

Dr. Mike welcomes Danielle Hutchinson, a master storyteller and ghostwriter of over 150 books, who shares her expertise on crafting compelling narratives. From her experiences as an English teacher to her current role at Authors on a Mission, Danielle has helped countless clients bring their stories to life. She breaks down the book-writing process into actionable steps that even the busiest professionals can follow.

Danielle tackles some of the most common challenges for aspiring authors, including overcoming writer's block, writing a book in just 90 days, and finding the time to write—even without prior writing skills. She also discusses the incredible business opportunities that can come from publishing a book, such as creating additional income streams, securing speaking engagements, and building authority in your field.

With a wealth of experience and a unique perspective as a digital nomad, Danielle emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or someone with a message to share, this episode will inspire you to finally put pen to paper and bring your story to life.

• Write a Book People Want to Read: Understand your audience and deliver value through a well-structured narrative.
• Overcome Writer's Block: Danielle shares simple tips to keep the creative juices flowing, even on tough days.
• Write in 90 Days: Break the process into manageable chunks and use proven strategies to stay on track.
• Monetize Your Book: Learn how to leverage your book to create multiple income streams, including courses, workshops, and consulting.
• Grow Your Brand and Business: A book can position you as an authority, attract new clients, and open doors to new opportunities.
• Secure Paid Speaking Gigs: Danielle explains how authors can use their books as a powerful tool to land speaking engagements.

Danielle Hutchinson proves that writing a book isn't just a dream—it's a practical and achievable goal that can transform your life and career. Whether you're aiming to grow your business, establish authority, or simply share your story, her advice provides the roadmap you need to succeed.

Call to Action: Hit play to hear the full episode and discover how to turn your story into a book that creates impact, income, and influence!

Links for This Episode:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-hutchinson-159798259
• Instagram: @‌WeLikeBooks
• Blog: https://authorsonmission.com/blog/
• Podcasts:https://open.spotify.com/show/12U5nbvPkcgC83VK9j4lPM?si=6ddaaa0c8a034436
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@authorsonmission

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 02:10 - Meet Danielle Hutchinson: Chief Creative Officer at Authors on a Mission
• 05:30 - Why Writing a Book Can Transform Your Career
• 08:45 - How to Write a Book People Actually Want to Read
• 12:20 - Overcoming Writer's Block: Simple Strategies for Aspiring Authors
• 16:00 - The 90-Day Plan to Write Your Book
• 19:45 - Writing a Book Without Time or Writing Skills
• 24:10 - How to Monetize Your Book: Creating Multiple Income Streams
• 28:35 - Using Your Book to Grow Your Brand and Business
• 33:00 - Landing Paid Speaking Engagements With Your Book
• 36:50 - Danielle's Final Advice for Aspiring Authors

What do leadership and ballet have in common? More than you might think! In this inspiring episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson speaks with Ahli Moore about the surprising connections between ballet and leadership, uncovering how the discipline, practice, and passion behind the art of dance can guide leaders to be more effective and impactful.

Dr. Mike welcomes Ahli Moore, founder of X-Factor Solutions, a consulting firm dedicated to leadership development and organizational transformation. Drawing on his unique perspective as a business leader and his connection to the ballet world through his wife, a professional choreographer and former ballerina, Ahli shares how foundational principles of ballet mirror essential leadership practices.

Ahli discusses the importance of passion and purpose in leadership, drawing parallels with the early dedication of ballet dancers. He highlights how practice, preparation, and consistency are vital for both dancers and leaders, emphasizing that great performances—on stage or in the boardroom—are the result of relentless preparation.

Ahli also introduces the concept of core positions in ballet, which serve as a foundation for all movements, and relates this to defining and mastering core leadership skills. He explores how adaptability and the ability to pivot in challenging situations can make leaders more resilient and effective.

Finally, Ahli dives into the importance of receiving feedback, or "post-performance notes," as an ongoing practice for growth and excellence. Leaders, like dancers, must embrace continuous improvement to stay at the top of their game.

• Passion and Purpose: Leaders, like dancers, need to continuously assess their passion for their work and ensure their purpose aligns with their goals.
• Practice and Preparation: Excellence doesn't happen overnight—it's the result of consistent effort and refinement.
• Core Positions: Identify and master the foundational skills that everything else builds upon.
• The Power of Pivoting: Adaptability is key, but always stay anchored to your core values.
• Feedback for Growth: Welcome constructive criticism as a tool for improvement, and incorporate it into your daily practices.

Ahli Moore's insights remind us that great leadership is an art form, requiring passion, discipline, and continuous improvement. Whether you're leading a team or striving for personal excellence, these lessons from the ballet world can guide you to greater success.

Hit play to hear the full episode and discover how the art of ballet can transform your approach to leadership!

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 02:00 - Ahli Moore's Background and Journey in Leadership Consulting
• 07:00 - How Ballet and Leadership Are Connected
• 10:24 - The Importance of Passion and Purpose in Leadership
• 15:00 - How Leaders Can Rekindle Their Passion and Align with Their Purpose
• 20:12 - The Role of Practice and Preparation in Both Dance and Leadership
• 24:34 - Understanding Core Positions: Foundational Skills for Success
• 30:03 - The Art of Pivoting: Staying Flexible While Remaining Anchored
• 35:10 - The Value of Performance Consistency in Leadership
• 38:27 - Embracing Post-Performance Notes: Feedback as a Tool for Growth
• 41:00 - Keep Practicing and Growing: The Lifelong Journey of Leadership
• 43:30 - Ahli's One Piece of Advice for Leaders: Focus on What Excites You

How can technical experts harness their unique strengths to become impactful leaders? Join Dr. Mike Patterson and Dr. Angelique Adams as they explore the transition from technical mastery to effective leadership and discuss actionable tools for success.

In this episode, Dr. Mike Patterson welcomes Dr. Angelique Adams, an accomplished engineer-turned-leadership coach, to discuss the journey of transforming technical experts into high-impact leaders. Drawing on 25+ years of experience, Dr. Adams shares her personal story of transitioning from a lab technician to a corporate executive overseeing global teams.

Dr. Adams addresses the myth that technical professionals aren't natural leaders, highlighting how their analytical strengths and problem-solving skills can become powerful assets in leadership roles. She also explores the challenges technical leaders face, such as overcoming imposter syndrome, improving interpersonal skills, and managing work-life expectations.

Key to Dr. Adams' approach is her ability to translate abstract leadership concepts, such as empathy and collaboration, into tangible behaviors that resonate with highly analytical minds. She also explains how tools like leadership assessments and small behavioral experiments can help technical leaders develop their emotional intelligence and build meaningful connections with their teams.

Listeners will also gain insights into the importance of building networks within their organizations, using KPIs to monitor both professional and personal success, and maintaining an "accomplishments inventory" to stay motivated and focused.

• Breaking the Myth: Technical experts bring unique strengths like problem-solving and analytical skills to leadership, disproving the idea they can't thrive in these roles.
• Actionable Leadership Skills: Learn how to translate abstract concepts like empathy and collaboration into practical, easy-to-adopt behaviors.
• Work-Life Harmony: Use KPIs for personal and professional goals to stay balanced and productive.
• Building Confidence: Overcome imposter syndrome by leveraging assessments and feedback to grow as a leader.
• Fostering Connections: Build strong networks and collaborations within your organization to support your growth and impact.

Hit play to hear Dr. Angelique Adams' practical advice for transitioning into leadership, and discover how you can start your journey to becoming a high-impact leader today!

Links for This Episode:

• www.drangeliqueadams.com
• [email protected]
• https://www.amazon.com/Youre-More-Than-Diversity-Women

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 02:00 - Dr. Angelique Adams' Background and Leadership Journey
• 05:12 - Dispelling the Myth: Why Technical Experts Can Be Great Leaders
• 09:45 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Tools and Strategies
• 13:30 - Building Leadership Skills Through Tangible Actions
• 17:15 - Setting Personal KPIs for Work-Life Balance
• 22:10 - How to Build a Strong Network Within Your Organization
• 26:40 - Advice for Aspiring Leaders: The Power of Accomplishments Inventories

How do you turn dreams into reality while leading teams through complex, high-stakes projects? Dr. Mike Patterson hosts a LIVE discussion on linkedin with Bob Weis, former head of Walt Disney Imagineering, and Tricia Cerrone, a leadership expert, to uncover the lessons behind chasing big dreams, fostering creativity, and leading with purpose.

In this special live episode, Dr. Mike Patterson is joined by Bob Weis, author of Dream Chasing, and Tricia Cerrone, who facilitates a rich conversation about leadership, creativity, and collaboration. Bob shares his journey leading massive projects, including his 40 years with Disney Imagineering, where he managed creative teams that built theme parks around the world.

The discussion highlights the importance of storytelling in leadership, a skill Bob mastered while designing immersive experiences that unite people across cultures. He reflects on the development of Shanghai Disneyland as a transformative project, not just for Disney, but for fostering international understanding and cultural collaboration.

Tricia adds her expertise in leadership, emphasizing how building trust and empathy are critical to guiding diverse teams through challenges. Dr. Mike ties the conversation back to actionable lessons for leaders in all fields, emphasizing the balance of mission and people.

Join the next LIVE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson

• Chasing Dreams, Not Just Following Them: Turning dreams into reality requires intentionality, teamwork, and relentless focus.

• The Power of Storytelling in Leadership: Stories unify teams, provide clarity, and keep everyone aligned toward a common purpose.

• Creative Leadership: Building trust, fostering collaboration, and encouraging out-of-the-box thinking are essential for innovation.

• Lessons from Shanghai Disneyland: The project exemplifies leadership through international collaboration, cultural understanding, and respect for workers.

• Empathy and Connection: Effective leadership requires empathy and a commitment to understanding the perspectives of others.

This episode is a masterclass in leadership, innovation, and dream chasing. Bob Weis and Tricia Cerrone share inspiring stories and practical strategies to help leaders think big, lead with purpose, and build stronger, more creative teams.

Hit play to hear the full episode and discover how to take your leadership and dream-chasing skills to the next level

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Episode
• 01:05 - Meet Bob Weis: Leadership Insights from Disney Imagineering
• 03:10 - Introducing Tricia Cerrone: Leadership and Creativity Expert
• 04:50 - Chasing Dreams vs. Following Dreams: What It Takes to Lead Big Projects
• 07:30 - The Power of Storytelling in Leadership
• 10:15 - Building Shanghai Disneyland: Lessons in Collaboration and Culture
• 13:45 - How Leaders Can Foster Creativity and Innovation in Teams
• 17:30 - Empathy and Trust: The Cornerstones of Leadership
• 20:20 - Lessons Learned from International Projects
• 23:45 - How to Balance Mission and People in Leadership
• 27:10 - Advice for Dream Chasers: Insights from Bob and Tricia
• 30:05 - Closing Thoughts: Turning Dreams into Reality

In a competitive and ever-changing business world, is there room for kindness? Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Brittany Martin, founder of Be Kind Works, to discuss how leaders can embrace kindness as a powerful strategy for sustainable success.

Dr. Mike welcomes Brittany Martin, an expert in HR and leadership development, who brings a unique perspective on how kindness and strategic leadership go hand in hand. As the founder of Be Kind Works, Brittany shares her KIND framework, designed to help leaders foster empathy and effectiveness in the workplace. Brittany discusses why kindness isn't about being "soft" but rather about driving meaningful results through respect, understanding, and compassion. She outlines how this approach can disrupt traditional management methods, enhancing team performance, employee satisfaction, and overall business outcomes.

Through real-world examples, Brittany demonstrates how leaders can cultivate a kinder, more effective workplace that not only meets goals but exceeds them by fostering innovation, collaboration, and wellness.

• Courage to Be Kind: Kindness in leadership requires strength, empathy, and commitment to creating positive outcomes.
• KIND Framework: Brittany's framework includes Knowledge, Insight, Navigation, and Drive, providing a roadmap for leading with kindness.
• Disrupting the Status Quo: Brittany's approach challenges traditional, hierarchical management styles with a more inclusive, people-centered strategy.
• Empowering Emerging Leaders: Developing new leaders with kindness can have a ripple effect, promoting growth across the organization.
• Long-Term Success: Kindness-driven leadership creates sustainable growth by building trust, encouraging innovation, and improving morale.

Brittany Martin's KIND framework is a revolutionary approach for leaders who want to balance achieving results with fostering a positive and productive workplace culture. Her insights challenge the norm, proving that disruption and kindness can work hand in hand.

Hit play now to hear the full episode and discover how Brittany's KIND framework can help you lead with empathy, drive results, and transform your team dynamics.

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
• Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
• Buy The Book!: Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:29 - The Role of Kindness in Today's Business Environment
• 01:22 - Guest Introduction: Brittany Martin's Background and Experience
• 03:30 - Exploring Maya Angelou's Quote on Kindness and Courage
• 04:29 - Defining Kindness in a Professional Context
• 06:11 - Can Kindness Drive Business Results?
• 09:23 - Introducing the KIND Framework for Leadership
• 09:55 - Knowledge: Awareness and Acknowledgment in Leadership
• 10:21 - Insight: Reflection and Perspective as Leadership Tools
• 10:43 - Navigation: Setting Boundaries and Focus
• 11:00 - Drive: Personal Motivation and Taking Action
• 11:11 - How the KIND Framework Helps Leaders Through Change
• 13:00 - Practical Application of the KIND Framework in Real Organizations
• 15:58 - Needs Assessments and Customized Leadership Solutions
• 17:40 - Making Kindness a Strategic Part of People-Centric Organizations
• 18:00 - Brittany's Role with Disrupt HR and the Concept of "Disrupting" in HR
• 20:21 - How Disrupt HR's Presentation Style Engages Audiences
• 22:00 - Is Kindness Truly Disruptive in the Workplace?
• 23:20 - Developing Emerging Leaders: Importance and Long-Term Impact
• 26:13 - Brittany's Success Story with Leadership Transformation
• 29:23 - Reflection on Brittany's Leadership Journey and Lasting Influence
• 31:05 - Final Advice: Be Yourself, Considerate, and Compassionate as a Leader