Stop looking at your P&L statement to find the source of your company’s struggles—look in the mirror. We often say that our personal lives affect our business, like a gentle breeze. But on this week’s episode of A New Direction, I am challenging that soft definition. As a Behavioral Strategist, I’m showing you why your personal problems actually INFECT your business like a virus. Whether it’s financial fear, lack of sleep, or hidden insecurity, if the leader is sick, the business is dying. You might just be “Patient Zero.”

We are going to dive deep into the science of “Cortisol Contagion” and why your stress is literally infecting your employees’ blood chemistry. Are you the leader who wakes up at 2:00 AM to fire off emails? You might think you’re being productive, but you are actually spreading the “Adrenaline Virus” and creating a culture of false urgency that kills performance. If your people aren’t selling, or your turnover is high, it’s not the economy—it’s an infection, and I’m going to show you how to diagnose it.

This isn’t just theory; we are doing the work. I’m going to walk you through the “Sent Folder Autopsy”—a practical homework assignment you can do the moment the show ends to see exactly where you are leaking stress into your team that is creating an infection. We are going to move past the symptoms of “bad sales” and “no time” to treat the root cause: the behavior of the leader. You cannot heal the business until you heal yourself.

Join me, Coach Jay Izso, for this solo “Family Meeting” edition of A New Direction.  Bring your notepad and your honesty—we are scrubbing up and performing surgery on the behaviors holding you back, and killing the infection. If you can’t make the live stream, be sure to subscribe and download the episode on your favorite podcast platform. Let’s take your business, and your life, in a New Direction.

When you’re ready to take a new direction in life, few decisions are as significant as where you choose to call home. That’s why I am so proud to be sponsored by Linda Craft Team, REALTORS. For over 40 years, they have remained at the absolute top of the real estate game, helping people navigate the complex currents of the housing market with confidence and ease. Whether you are looking to upsize, downsize, or buy your very first home, you need a guide who understands that this isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s a personal transition into your future.

Linda Craft and her team are famous for their “Legendary Service,” a commitment to treating every client like family and ensuring no detail is overlooked. They take the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on the excitement of your next chapter rather than the stress of the process. Why settle for average when you can work with the experts who support the mission of this show? Take the first step toward your new home right now by visiting www.lindacraft.com.

As a business leader or founder, you often carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. You have the vision, the drive, and the strategy, yet sometimes it feels like you are hitting an invisible ceiling. The truth is, the biggest barrier to your company’s growth isn’t usually the market or the economy—it is human behavior. As a Behavioral Strategist, I help you decode the psychological patterns that are silently sabotaging your culture, your execution, and your personal leadership. I don’t just tell you what to change; I help you understand why those behaviors exist so you can finally break through the noise and lead with absolute clarity and confidence.

Your potential is limitless, but only if you are willing to look at the human element of your business through a new lens. Stop letting behavioral blind spots dictate your future and start making decisions that align your people with your purpose. If you are ready to stop spinning your wheels and start moving in a new, more profitable direction, let’s have a conversation that will change the way you lead forever. Visit me today at www.jayizso.com or reach out directly to start your transformation at [email protected].

The post 3 Ways You Are INFECTING Your Business appeared first on Jay Izso.

Have you ever wondered why you are fiercely loyal to certain brands while ignoring others that offer the exact same thing? It’s not about the price, and it’s rarely about the features. It is about brain physiology and how it interacts with our decisions when it comes to brands. Today, we are diving deep into the science of emotion with Kevin Perlmutter, the pioneering strategist and author of the groundbreaking new book, Brand Desire.

Kevin is here to reveal that the secret to business growth isn’t “selling”—it’s “solving.” We are going to explore his “Limbic Sparks” approach, a method rooted in behavioral science that helps you stop chasing customers and start magnetically attracting them. Whether you are leading a Fortune 500 company or building a personal brand, you will learn how to tap into the instinctive, emotional part of the brain that drives our decision-making.

In this episode of A New Direction, we are moving beyond the old-school 20th century branding like “Unique Selling Proposition.” Kevin will walk us through his proven “Focus, Connect, Evolve” framework, showing us how to align your business with what people actually care about. We will discuss why traditional marketing language is dead and how you can earn loyalty by making your customers feel seen, heard, and understood.

Join us live on A New Direction as we uncover the blind spots in your current strategy. If you are ready to stop shouting into the void and start building a brand that people don’t just buy from—but truly desire—this is a conversation you cannot afford to miss.

Kevin Perlmutter’s book, “Brand Desire: Spark Customer Interest Using Emotional Insights” is the absolute essential book for today’s brand leaders.  This is a book that is founded solidly on research both from the brand researchers and his own research working with different companies.

For most of us we are still stuck in the 20th century branding ideas of persuasion. We are talking about all the great things about ourselves and what WE THINK we do for the future customer, but here’s the problem…how do your customers feel about your brand.  Because at the end of the day it is all about how they feel about you.

This is an important, because as we know we, as humans, do not make logical purchasing decisions, not matter how big or how small.  It also does not matter if you are B2C or B2B, every human makes a decision based on emotions triggered by the limbic system and then justifies it with logic. And Kevin Perlmutter’s book, “Brand Desire” helps solve the problem.

Kevin Perlmutter, helps us understand the 3 Steps to creating a brand that resonates with customers and makes them come back for more…Focus, Connect, Evolve.  That is doing the right research asking the right questions, then creating a message that emotionally is in sync with the organization and the customer, and then how you are seen how you are heard, and does the message really something the customer cares about.

Amazing book, one that will change you as a brand leader whether you are on a one person show, or a corporation looking to increase profitability.

Click here to get your copy of Brand Desire!

Linda Craft Team, Realtors for more than 40 years they have been helping people make a life transition.  Wait! What? Think about it, every place you have ever lived has been a transition in your life.  And since 1985 they have been helping people reduce the stress and making that transition easier for thousands of people.

Unaffiliated and independently owned and operated they can recommend the best real estate professional to help you sell your home or buy your next home anywhere in the world.

That is because they are not attached to a national company, they are attached to what is in your best interest.

So before you buy or sell start with the “Legends” at Linda Craft Team.  Just click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

Here is the truth: You tune into A New Direction because you want to grow. But consuming content and executing strategy are two different things. If you are leading a company between $5M and $50M and you feel like you are hitting a ceiling, the problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s likely a “human” bottleneck.

I am Coach Jay, a Behavioral Strategist who specializes in fixing the friction that kills profit. I don’t just look at your P&L; I look at the psychology of the people driving it. I recently helped a stalled mid-market firm save $3 Million and secure new capital—not by firing people, but by realigning their behavior.

Stop guessing. Let’s find the millions trapped in your org chart. Reach out for a discreet conversation: 919-369-2121 or visit TheCoachJay.com.

The post 3 Ways to Spark Unstoppable Brand Desire appeared first on Jay Izso.

 It happens to the best of us. The calendar is set, the mic is hot, and then the notification pops up—a last-minute cancellation. This week on A New Direction, I faced a choice: scramble to replay an old hit or walk the walk. I chose the latter. This unexpected gap in the schedule wasn’t a setback; it was a perfect metaphor for what we discuss on this show every week. It was a clear sign to talk about the one skill that separates the successful from the stagnant: The Art of the Pivot. If I had to adjust my direction on the fly, it seemed like the perfect time to teach you how to do the same.

How do you know when it’s time to change course? We often wait for a catastrophe to force our hand, but the real signs are much subtler. In this episode, I break down the red flags you might be ignoring, specifically the “Sunday Night Dread”—that physical rejection of your current reality—and the “Competence Trap,” where being good at your job actually becomes the cage that keeps you from being great. We also have a hard conversation about why your jealousy of others is actually a roadmap disguised as envy. Recognizing these signals is the first step out of the drift and into the driver’s seat, and start your pivot

Identifying the problem is easy; navigating the transition to pivot is where most people quit. I call this the “Messy Middle”—that terrifying space between letting go of the old trapeze bar and catching the new one. In this solo session, I share the specific tool kit you need to survive the gap, including shifting your mindset from “How do I do this?” to “Who can help me?” and conducting “15-Minute Experiments” to test the waters without drowning. You don’t need to burn the ships to make a change; you just need a better strategy to handle the uncertainty.

Finally, we move from information to execution. I am not interested in you just listening; I want you moving. I’m issuing a “24-Hour Challenge” to every listener with three specific options to get you started on your pivot. Whether it’s sending a “scary email” to a mentor or making a micro-commitment, I’m asking you to take one concrete step today. A “New Direction” isn’t a destination you wish for; it’s a decision you make. Tune in to hear the full breakdown, and let’s turn this unexpected solo show into your pivot.

Please thank the sponsors of A New Direction

Linda Craft Team, Realtors   Linda built her business in 1985 one relationship at a time, and her team and her continue to do the same things she did 40 years later.

They have provided thousands of people the ability to help people sell or buy their next home with personalized legendary customer service.

They have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of the home industry.  They also understand you and what you want and need from your next home purchase or sale.

What is more they can help you regardless of where you live.  Ready to buy or sell your next home or your first…click on over to to www.LindaCraft.com

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Here is the truth: You tune into A New Direction because you want to grow. But consuming content and executing strategy are two different things. If you are leading a company between $5M and $50M and you feel like you are hitting a ceiling, the problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s likely a “human” bottleneck.

I am Coach Jay, a Behavioral Strategist who specializes in fixing the friction that kills profit. I don’t just look at your P&L; I look at the psychology of the people driving it. I recently helped a stalled mid-market firm save $3 Million and secure new capital—not by firing people, but by realigning their behavior.

Stop guessing. Let’s find the millions trapped in your org chart. Reach out for a discreet conversation: 919-369-2121 or visit TheCoachJay.com.

The post 3 Ways to Discover The Art of The Pivot appeared first on Jay Izso.

In the high-stakes game of business, we are often obsessed with the scoreboard—profit margins, market share, and rankings. But the greatest mentor of all time, Coach John Wooden, taught us that true success isn’t merely about winning; it is about the peace of mind attained only through self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do the best of which you are capable. Too many leaders today are burning out chasing the “win” while losing the heart of their team. It is time to redefine what it means to lead.

This week on A New Direction, I am sitting down with the man recognized as “America’s Breakthrough Coach,” Brian Biro. We are discussing his book, Beyond Success, and the profound lessons he learned directly from his mentor, John Wooden. Brian doesn’t just theorize about culture; he shows you how to build it. We are going to explore how to apply Wooden’s timeless principles to the modern workplace, shifting your team from a group of employees to a collective of high-performers who genuinely care about the mission and each other.

This conversation is vital for every leader, entrepreneur, and coach who wants to build a legacy that lasts. We will dive into how to foster a spirit of “industriousness and enthusiasm” in your organization and how to break through the fear that stifles innovation. Brian is going to share the secrets of how to lead with love and discipline simultaneously, creating an environment where success is the natural by-product of character. This is about taking your business from transactional to transformational.

This is your opportunity to learn the blueprint for greatness from a man who learned from the master himself. Bring your notebook and your team—this is the kind of wisdom that changes trajectories. If you cannot join the livestream, make sure to subscribe and download the podcast later. Don’t settle for being a boss; tune in and learn how to become a leader who goes beyond success.

Brian Biro‘s book, “Beyond Success: – The 15 Secrets to Effective Leadership and Life Based on Legendary Coach John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success” is a timeless and outstanding read!  The stories and practical applications are just as relevant today as they were when John Wooden coached his last year in the mid-seventies.

In today’s world we are so focused on the results we are employing strategies at the sacrifice of human fundamentals that either burn our people out or burn us out.  Let’s be honest all business is about people. Not just the people we sell to, but the people who do the selling, who handle the paperwork, who mop the floor.  All of business is people, and if we are not handling our people well.  We have already lost.

The fact is all success is going to start with the number one person we need to develop first. And that is us.  Sadly, in today’s world we are so concerned with our reputation and what other’s think we are less focused on developing our character.  But it is from our character that will drive our enthusiasm, beliefs, and vision.  Without fully developed character or vision is nothing more than words on the wall.  Empty and meaningless.

Beyond Success is truly a refreshing read, that gets grounded into the basics of who we are, getting the most out of the people around us, and building the right blocks so that what naturally flows is competitive greatness.

Get your copy of “Beyond Success” by clicking here.

Please thank the sponsors of A New Direction

Linda Craft Team, Realtors   Linda built her business in 1985 one relationship at a time, and her team and her continue to do the same things she did 40 years later.

They have provided thousands of people the ability to help people sell or buy their next home with personalized legendary customer service.

They have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of the home industry.  They also understand you and what you want and need from your next home purchase or sale.

What is more they can help you regardless of where you live.  Ready to buy or sell your next home or your first…click on over to to www.LindaCraft.com

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Here is the truth: You tune into A New Direction because you want to grow. But consuming content and executing strategy are two different things. If you are leading a company between $5M and $50M and you feel like you are hitting a ceiling, the problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s likely a “human” bottleneck.

I am Coach Jay, a Behavioral Strategist who specializes in fixing the friction that kills profit. I don’t just look at your P&L; I look at the psychology of the people driving it. I recently helped a stalled mid-market firm save $3 Million and secure new capital—not by firing people, but by realigning their behavior.

Stop guessing. Let’s find the millions trapped in your org chart. Reach out for a discreet conversation: 919-369-2121 or visit TheCoachJay.com.

The post Beyond Success: The John Wooden Way to Leadership appeared first on Jay Izso.

Have you ever presented a perfectly logical argument, only to have it completely ignored? Most of us believe that if we just explain the facts clearly enough, people will change their minds. But the reality is that decision-making is rarely purely rational; it is deeply rooted in psychology, emotion, and trust. This week on A New Direction with Coach Jay, we are shattering the myth that persuasion is just about having the “gift of gab” and revealing the actual science behind why people say “yes.”

I am thrilled to be joined live by negotiation expert Andres Lares, author of The 4-Step Process to Influence People and Decisions. As the Managing Partner at the Shapiro Negotiations Institute, Andres has spent his career dissecting the mechanics of influence. He doesn’t just share theories; he provides a practical, tactical blueprint that you can use immediately. Whether you are leading a team, closing a sale, or simply trying to navigate family dynamics, Andres is going to walk us through how to move from being ignored to being indispensable.

In this episode, we are diving deep into the “Persuasion Cycle.” We will explore why credibility is the currency of influence, how to ethically leverage emotion, and why logic only works after you’ve established a connection. Andres will break down his proven 4-step framework, teaching you how to prepare for high-stakes conversations and how to structure your communication so that your ideas aren’t just heard—they are accepted and acted upon. This is about ethical influence that builds long-term relationships, not manipulation.

Don’t leave your success up to chance—join us! If you want to stop guessing and start influencing, you cannot afford to miss this conversation.  Let’s take A New Direction together!

Andres Lares book, “Persuade: The 4-Step Process to Influence People and Decisions” is an outstanding read for anyone in sales or negotiations.  This book is backed by their own research, as well as research of others.  It is timeless and practical. Is it a sales tool kit? Yes!  And so much more!

In Persuade, Andres and his colleagues from their research outline the 4 Step process to increasing your sales, closing, and influencing others.  This book is not just about business, it applies to everyone who is ever been in negotiations…that may even include your children, spouse, or significant other.

The 4 Step Process builds on each in the form of a pyramid.  So, the base level is “Build Credibility”.  Wait!  Before you assume credibility there is more to it than what you may be thinking.  If you said the word, “trust” as part of that equation you would be correct.  But Andres Lares et al. break it down on how to develop trust.  And it’s not just with words; it is also non-verbal as well.

The next stage that comes next is “Engage Emotion”. Fact is, we don’t make our decisions with logic.  That has been demonstrated time and time again.  If you want to really get to the meat of getting people to make a decision you need to understand their emotions, but you also need to understand yours as well.  This is where Persuade really differentiates itself from other “sales how to” books.  The research is quite robust.

The third level is demonstrating logic, and the top level is “Facilitate Action” or the close.  I believe this to be one of the best books I have read.  Personally, I have used this on my sales teams and found it to be so beneficial to build confidence and increase their ability to close more.

Get Your Copy of Persuade by Clicking Here

Please thank the sponsors of A New Direction

Linda Craft Team, Realtors   Linda built her business in 1985 one relationship at a time, and her team and her continue to do the same things she did 40 years later.

They have provided thousands of people the ability to help people sell or buy their next home with personalized legendary customer service.

They have the experience, knowledge, and understanding of the home industry.  They also understand you and what you want and need from your next home purchase or sale.

What is more they can help you regardless of where you live.  Ready to buy or sell your next home or your first…click on over to to www.LindaCraft.com

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Here is the truth: You tune into A New Direction because you want to grow. But consuming content and executing strategy are two different things. If you are leading a company between $5M and $50M and you feel like you are hitting a ceiling, the problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s likely a “human” bottleneck.

I am Coach Jay, a Behavioral Strategist who specializes in fixing the friction that kills profit. I don’t just look at your P&L; I look at the psychology of the people driving it. I recently helped a stalled mid-market firm save $3 Million and secure new capital—not by firing people, but by realigning their behavior.

Stop guessing. Let’s find the millions trapped in your org chart. Reach out for a discreet conversation: 919-369-2121 or visit TheCoachJay.com.

The post 4 Steps to Sell More and Influence Decisions appeared first on Jay Izso.

This week on A New Direction with Coach Jay, we’re diving back into a powerful idea that has only grown more relevant: Peernovation. Leo Bottary returns with the newly revised 2nd Edition of Peernovation: Leverage Peer Wisdom to Create Team Excellence and trust me… this update is not just a cosmetic refresh. It is a transformational rethinking of how people, teams, and leaders rise together. In a world where complexity increases and isolation becomes easier; Leo makes a bold case: the future belongs to the teams who intentionally harness the wisdom of their peers. This is not “team building”—this is unlocking human potential through connection.

We’ll explore why the most successful groups don’t happen by accident—they happen by design. Peernovation challenges leaders to rethink the way they select, develop, and inspire teams. It shows why the who always comes before the what, and why the right peers can elevate performance faster than any strategy, incentive program, or motivational campaign. Leo breaks down the research behind high-performing groups and reveals the hidden habits that allow teams to become more innovative, more accountable, and more resilient. If you’ve ever wondered why some teams consistently outperform—even when they shouldn’t—this episode will give you the blueprint.

We’re also going to dig into the shift from individual excellence to collective greatness—something many leaders say they want but rarely know how to cultivate. Peernovation demonstrates that peer influence is the most powerful driver of behavior and performance inside any group. When you understand how peer dynamics shape standards, culture, and outcomes, you stop “managing people” and start unleashing them. This is where the magic happens. This is where belonging fuels bravery, and where teams start to multiply their potential instead of adding to it.

Join us to discover how peer-powered teams are built, how they sustain excellence, and how you can create them in your organization, your business, or your life. Whether you’re a business owner, a leader under pressure, or someone who wants to elevate the people around you, this conversation with Leo Bottary will challenge you, inspire you, and give you tools you can use immediately. Peernovation isn’t just a concept… it’s a movement. And tomorrow, we’re going to show you how to become part of it.

Leo Bottary‘s book, “Peernovation: Leverage Peer Wisdom to Create Team Excellence (2nd Edition) is insightful and gives the most fundamental and necessary components to building organizational and business groups and teams that are not only effective but will lead your business to greater growth and profitability.

We all know it’s true, we can be far more creative in a group that we can be on our own.  We know that we make better decisions in groups then we can on our own. We also know that growth doesn’t happen in a silo it happens in groups and teams.  So how do we build these groups and teams so that we can be as successful as possible.  This is where “Peernovation” comes to the rescue.

Peernovation is the combination of two words.  Peers, such as your colleagues and people like you, and Innovation, the creative process that helps us grow and achieve more.  We put them together to create Peernovation.  But it is not for the faint of heart.  To have successful peernovation there are some hard choices we have to make.  Such as insuring that there is absolute psychological safety, that there are value and behavior alignment, etc.

The 2nd edition is a great read.  It flows well.  The new ideas added to the book are fantastic and insightful.  After reading it I also found myself trying to figure how I take my own existing teams and reestablish ground rules and better communication so that I have better Peernovation.

Click here to get your copy of Peernovation

Please thank our sponsors for joining us here on A New Direction

Linda Craft Team, Realtors has been a partner with A New Direction since the very beginning.

They are the relationship real estate professionals, and for more than 40 years they have built a reputation in the world wide real estate community as the real estate people with “Legendary Customer Service”.

They understand that a home is made not of bricks, sticks and mortar, but of people and those are memories that are personal and last a lifetime.  You don’t last for 40 years in the real estate business if you don’t provide an amazing client experience and fantastic customer service after a home has sold and closed.  Are you ready to experience the Linda Craft Team difference?  Click on over to www.LindaCraft.com.

and

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Most Consultants Fix the Spreadsheet. I Fix the Human Who Broke It.

If you are running a company of $10M+, you don’t need more strategy. You have plenty of strategy. You don’t need more “motivation.” You have plenty of drive.

So why are you stuck? Why is the profit margin slipping? Why does everything feel like it relies on you?

Here is the uncomfortable truth: The bottleneck isn’t the market. It isn’t the product. It’s the psychology.

And that is exactly why you hire me.

1. I Go Where Others Won’t Most business coaches will look at your P&L and tell you to cut costs. I look at your leadership team and tell you to cut the behavior. Whether you are navigating a high-conflict divorce, suffering from “Founder’s Ego,” or paralyzed by indecision—I don’t shy away from the personal chaos. I build a blast shield around your business so the personal storm doesn’t sink the ship.

2. I Don’t “Guess”—I “Profile” I am a Behavioral Strategist. I don’t operate on gut feeling. I use deep behavioral diagnostics to see exactly why your team is failing.

Example: I recently found a “COO” hiding inside a client’s Marketing Department. We didn’t hire an expensive executive; we just realigned an existing employee based on her psychological profile. Result: 100% execution rate.

3. I Turn “Mindset” into “Millions” “Psychology” sounds soft until you see the math. I recently worked with a Founder who was psychologically attached to a “global footprint”—expensive offices and servers he didn’t need. The “business” advice was ignored. It took a Behavioral Intervention to break that attachment. The result? We saved $3 Million annually and brought investors back to the table.

The Bottom Line: There are no business problems. There are only personal problems that infect your business.

If you want a cheerleader, hire a coach. If you want to unlock the millions trapped behind human friction, hire a Strategist.

Check out my case study on LinkedIn

Hey book lovers!  Would you rather read or listen to a book?  Well, here is your chance to listen to books and a FREE 30-day trial.

Now you can get your FREE 30-day trial and other discounts by using going to www.audibletrial.com/AND

The post 5 Ways Peernovation Drives Better Business Results appeared first on Jay Izso.

When you look around today’s business landscape—with all the books, podcasts, research studies, and hard-won lessons on leadership—you’d think we’d be experiencing a golden age of healthy cultures and high-performing teams. But we’re not. And that’s exactly why this week on A New Direction, I’m bringing on John Palumbo of Bigheads Network to dive deep into The Leadership Disconnect. If you’ve ever wondered why leaders continue to resist the overwhelming evidence of what works, this conversation is going to open your eyes… and maybe make you rethink the way you lead.

John has spent years studying the gap between what leaders say they want and what they actually do. He’s seen firsthand how organizations sabotage their own culture—not intentionally, but because they’re operating from outdated assumptions, fear-based habits, or ego-driven patterns. On Wednesday, we’re going to pull back the curtain on the real reasons leaders struggle to change—even when the data, the stories, and the results are staring them right in the face. And we’re going to talk about how that disconnect silently destroys morale, momentum, and innovation.

But here’s the twist: John and I won’t just be exposing the problem. We’re going after the psychology behind it—the blind spots, the excuses, and the hidden beliefs that keep leaders stuck repeating yesterday’s mistakes. If you’re an entrepreneur, executive, manager, team leader, or someone who’s ever had to influence people in any direction… this will challenge you. It will provoke you. And it just might give you the breakthrough you’ve been needing in your own leadership.

When you understand the leadership disconnect, you can become the leader people want to follow—not the one they resist. Tune in, take notes, and prepare for a shift.

Check out John by clicking here.

Please thank our sponsors for joining us here on A New Direction

Linda Craft Team, Realtors, fully locally owned and operated, and unaffiliated with a national brand for more than 40 years.

They have developed relationships with the world’s best real estate professionals to help people like you have an amazing experience when it comes to selling their home or buying a new one.

So, if you are looking to connect with the best person in your area…why not start with Linda Craft Team, Realtors drive on over to www.LindaCraft.com

and

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Are you ready to break through barriers, build unstoppable resilience, and create the success you’ve always envisioned?

I’m Here to Help You do exactly that. Whether you want to strengthen your mindset, develop unshakable resilience, grow your business, or take control of your life, our coaching programs are built to ignite transformation. Through personalized strategies, actionable insights, and unwavering support, we empower you to step boldly into your next level of success.

Life and business throw challenges our way, but resilience is the key to thriving—not just surviving. As a mindset, resilience, business, and life coach, I help you develop the habits and mental strength that turn obstacles into opportunities. My coaching dives deep into the proven strategies that high achievers use to stay focused, driven, and unshaken, no matter what comes their way. Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning how to rise stronger every time.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to scale, a leader aiming to inspire, or someone simply ready to take back control of your life, my coaching meets you where you are and accelerates your growth. With expert guidance, a results-driven approach, and a focus on real transformation, I help you redefine what’s possible and turn your ambitions into reality. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—together, we’ll create a roadmap that aligns with your goals and fuels your passion.

It’s time to step into your greatness. Are you ready to power up your mindset, resilience, business, and life? Let’s get to work. Visit coachingmavericks.com to learn more and take the first step toward the life you deserve.

Hey book lovers!  Would you rather read or listen to a book?  Well, here is your chance to listen to books and a FREE 30-day trial.

I use Audible and I love it!  I believe you will too.

Now you can get your FREE 30-day trial and other discounts by using going to www.audibletrial.com/AND

The post 4 Ways Leaders Get Disconnected from Change appeared first on Jay Izso.

What if I told you there’s a better way to succeed than chasing goals you never hit? This week on A New Direction, I’m sitting down with Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best-Selling Author Lee Benson, and we’re diving into his powerful book Your Most Important Number. Lee’s going to show us why traditional goal setting often falls flat—and how focusing on one transformational number can simplify your strategy, elevate your performance, and change the way you lead and live. If you’ve ever felt stuck or overloaded, this conversation will bring the clarity and direction you’ve been searching for.

Lee’s developed the MIND Methodology—Most Important Number + Drivers—a framework that’s helping organizations around the world cut the clutter and dial in on what really matters. We’ll dig into how you can find your most important number, align your people around it, and track progress in a way that builds confidence and momentum. It’s practical. It’s proven. And you’ll be able to use it the second the show ends.

But you know me—I’m always about the human side. And that’s what makes Lee’s approach so powerful. This isn’t just about data or performance metrics. It’s about people, purpose, unity, and ownership. When you focus on the right number, you create a culture where everyone knows what winning looks like—and how to move the needle together. That’s when progress becomes a habit instead of a hope.

This episode will show you The 1 Number That Changes Everything. Because once you know your most important number, you stop chasing random goals… and start achieving what truly matters.

Lee Benson’s book, “Your Most Important Number” is a brilliantly, logical, practical guide to helping any business of any size and any leader no matter the level achieve more as entire company and individually.

So often we read or hear people talk about goal setting.  “We have to set goals!” They will shout.  And experts from all different parts of the business world will say “set goals” if you want to achieve more success.

Well, that sounds good in theory, but the fact is this, no matter how SMART you make them it’s not working! Your company is not getting all that much better if it all because you do them, and here is the fact:  Setting goals are not motivating anyone!

There has got to be another way!  And there is! Lee Benson’s MIND (Most Important Number and Drivers).  Wow!  Talk about eye opening.  When leadership comes to the conclusion of what their MIN (Most Important Number) is, and then each area of the business determine what their MIN is that is connected to the overall MIN, and then each person knows what they need to deliver in terms of behavior to add value to the MIN.  Bam!  It’s a huge win!

The book is complete with an appendix that will start walking you through the how to…get the book…read it, absorb it, put it into practice, it has worked for so many businesses which he gives examples of it will work for your business too.

By the way, he even offers freebies to get yourself started.  Just go to www.etw.com/tools  it’s all right there.

And get your copy of Your Most Important Number by clicking here!

Please reach out and thank the financial sponsors of A New Direction:

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

And…

Linda Craft Team, REALTORS, for  more than 40 years they have been known as the “Legends of Customer Service”. They don’t say it…their clients do.  Why? It’s a culture that developed for more than 40 years that focuses on the client experience first.

It’s not about selling or buying a home, Linda recognized that it was a place where dreams were realized and memories would be made…and that makes more than a transaction, and that is why Linda created a client first culture where before, during and after your experience you have a partner that will help you for the rest of your life.

They have helped people from all over the world find the right professional to sell or buy their home.

And if you are located in the greater Raleigh Research Triangle Park (RTP) area stop in and get a FREE bottle of water and learn how they can help you.

Are you ready to break through barriers, build unstoppable resilience, and create the success you’ve always envisioned?

I’m Here to Help You do exactly that. Whether you want to strengthen your mindset, develop unshakable resilience, grow your business, or take control of your life, our coaching programs are built to ignite transformation. Through personalized strategies, actionable insights, and unwavering support, we empower you to step boldly into your next level of success.

Life and business throw challenges our way, but resilience is the key to thriving—not just surviving. As a mindset, resilience, business, and life coach, I help you develop the habits and mental strength that turn obstacles into opportunities. My coaching dives deep into the proven strategies that high achievers use to stay focused, driven, and unshaken, no matter what comes their way. Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning how to rise stronger every time.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to scale, a leader aiming to inspire, or someone simply ready to take back control of your life, my coaching meets you where you are and accelerates your growth. With expert guidance, a results-driven approach, and a focus on real transformation, I help you redefine what’s possible and turn your ambitions into reality. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—together, we’ll create a roadmap that aligns with your goals and fuels your passion.

It’s time to step into your greatness. Are you ready to power up your mindset, resilience, business, and life? Let’s get to work. Visit coachingmavericks.com to learn more and take the first step toward the life you deserve.

Hey book lovers!  Would you rather read or listen to a book?  Well, here is your chance to listen to books and a FREE 30-day trial.

I use Audible and I love it!  I believe you will too.

Now you can get your FREE 30-day trial and other discounts by using going to www.audibletrial.com/AND

The post The 1 Number That Changes Everything appeared first on Jay Izso.

Get ready to shift your communication game—live on Wednesday, November 19th at 3 pm Eastern, on A New Direction, I’ll be sitting down with the remarkable Molly Tschang, co-author (with Marshall Goldsmith) of the groundbreaking new book Say It Skillfully: Speak Up. Make Your Words Matter. Win Together.. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck, unsure how to speak up, or wanting to be heard rather than overlooked—this episode is for you. Molly brings a rich background—from leading major integrations at Cisco and U.S. Filter, to founding her own firm and podcast—so she knows firsthand what it takes to turn communication from risk to strength.

In the podcast we’ll dive deep into the Me-You-We framework from the book—a simple yet powerful model that helps anyone craft meaningful conversations grounded in intention, empathy, and shared reality. The book calls communication “the ultimate currency” and points out how many high-performing teams still struggle because people don’t speak up—or don’t know how to.

We’ll hear how Molly encourages professionals at every level to move beyond fear (of being wrong, of not fitting in, of offending) and step into voice in a way that honors both self and others. It’s the kind of mindset reset that fits right into the micro-dose improvement and reflection style I live for here at “A New Direction.”

We’ll also explore real-world stories from the book: how leaders used these skills in mergers, tough feedback conversations, multicultural teams, and even in personal life. These are not just “communication tips,” they are tools for building culture, trust, and influence. From Molly’s perspective: “Your communication is how others fundamentally experience you.”

If you’re coaching athletes, running a team, or simply want to lead with more authenticity and impact—this conversation will give you actionable communication pathways, not just ideas.

Whether you’re prepping to speak in a meeting, navigating a career pivot, or simply wanting to be heard more clearly at home or work—this is your communication playbook moment. You are going to enjoy Molly’s insights to our community and help you level up your voice and your impact.

Molly Tschang and Marshall Goldsmiths’s book, “Say It Skillfully” is a book takes something we so over complicate and makes it easy for all of us to implement. Whether you are an employee who does feel like you have a voice.  Or a leader who has unintentionally squelched the voices, this book is for you!

As a coach, I work with high performers, business owners, executives, athletes—you name it. And the common denominator among all of them isn’t intelligence, strategy, or even talent. It’s communication. The internal dialogue. The external courage. The ability to speak truth with clarity AND humanity. This book tackles that exact intersection with exceptional honesty and practicality. It doesn’t preach. It doesn’t guilt. It guides.

What I love most is that Molly doesn’t teach communication as a “technique.” She teaches the “me-you-we” frame work, and it as a mindset—one grounded in self-awareness, curiosity, and genuine connection. She shows you how to start by knowing yourself first. Then moves you to getting to know others. And finally, how we know ourselves as a team or group where everyone has a voice.

This isn’t just a book you read. It is going to require self-reflection ad intention.  And as I applied these tools in my own life and coaching sessions, in business conversations, I have seen change in myself and others.

If you’re a leader, if you’re a teammate, if you’re in a relationship of any kind, or if you simply want to be a better human being, Say It Skillfully belongs on your “must read” list. It’s wise. It’s relevant. It’s transformational.  Then don’t just let it sit there. Read it. Practice it. And put it into action.

A powerful, practical, human book. Molly and Marshall—thank you. This one is a difference-maker.  Get your copy by clicking here.

Please thank our sponsors for making A New Direction Possible:

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

and

Linda Craft  Team, REALTORS they can help you sell your home or buy your next home.  For more than 40 years they have been known for their “Legendary Customer Service”.  They have helped people all over the world sell their home or find their next home.  And they return and bring their friends.

And even if you live in another area, they are connected to the best real estate professionals that they can recommend, and to help you with your residential real estate needs.  Join the Linda Craft Team tribe and click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

There comes a moment in every business, every career, and every life where the wheels start spinning and you realize you’re working twice as hard for half the progress. I’ve spent my entire coaching life inside those moments. Not avoiding them—transforming them. Whether it’s an overwhelmed executive, a plateaued business owner, or a high-performance sales professional stuck in their own blind spots, my superpower has always been the same: I step into the chaos, find the thread of truth, and help you pull it until everything shifts. That’s why people call me The Turnaround Coach.

Turnarounds rarely happen because people lack talent. They happen because people lack clarity—clarity of purpose, clarity of discipline, clarity of next steps. When you work with me, we break through the noise and get brutally clear about what’s really holding you back. And once we name it, everything changes. You start seeing new opportunities. You start making decisions with confidence instead of fear. You start building discipline instead of chasing motivation. The turnaround begins the moment you stop trying to fix the symptom and start addressing the source.

But here’s the truth: a turnaround isn’t an event. It’s a process. It’s a series of intentional micro-shifts that compound into major transformation. I don’t just help you get “unstuck.” I help you build systems, habits, and mindsets that keep you from ever going back. My clients don’t just experience breakthroughs—they build resilience, clarity, and momentum that carry them into their next level of greatness.

If your business, your leadership, or your life is asking for a shift… if you’re tired of white-knuckling your way through the same patterns… if you’re ready for your turnaround—reach out. I coach Mavericks because Mavericks are the ones willing to change. Email me directly at [email protected] or click on “Coaching Mavericks – Unlock Your Potential with Jay Izso” and let’s start your turnaround today.

The post 3 Communication Shifts to Make an Impact appeared first on Jay Izso.

In today’s competitive marketplace, it’s not the best ideas that win—it’s the best stories. This week on A New Direction, I sit down with strategist and author Gavin McMahon to discuss his powerful new book, Story Business: Why Stories Rule the World and How They Can Reinvent Your Business. Gavin reveals why every leader, CEO, and sales professional must learn the language of storytelling if they want to inspire, influence, and ignite action.

We’ll explore the 6 essential genres of business storytelling—Value, Product, Brand, Sales, Leadership, and Culture—and how each one can transform the way you communicate and connect. Whether you’re pitching an idea, leading a team, or building a brand, mastering these six stories can elevate your message from informative to unforgettable.

Gavin will share practical insights on turning complexity into clarity, data into drama, and strategy into stories that stick. You’ll learn why simplicity is a competitive edge, how to make your message “retellable,” and what separates a leader who speaks from one who truly connects. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how storytelling drives alignment, motivation, and measurable results—because when people believe the story, they believe in the mission.

Join Gavin McMahon and me, Coach Jay on A New Direction. Discover how these six stories can help you inspire your team, elevate your influence, and lead your business in a whole new direction.

Gavin McMahon’s book, Story Business: Why Stories Rule the World and How They Can Reinvent Your Business” is a mind bender of a book.  Hold on to your brains folks, because this book is going to challenge the way you think about every presentation, every intereaction, and every piece of marketing you do in your business.

The fact is…the stories matter!  Here is the big fact: Our brains are wired for stories.  Just think about it for a second.  What is your favorite movie?  Got it?  Why is it your favorite?  There is something about the story, right?  Well what if we apply the same principles to every avenue of your business?  And that is exactly what Gavin McMahon does in “Story Business“.  He pulls the elements of great storytelling and makes it applicable to you regardless of size of business or budget.

Many powerful things in the book, but the first one that stands out is the Motive Triangle:  Hope, Fear, and Reason.  The fact is we don’t make our decisions rationally.  Here is the key: Emotions create action. Reason creates rationalization.  If you want people to move you have to connect to emotion…and when you can oppose hope and fear…you have a recipe for success!

Secondly, The Six Genres of Storytelling are extremely powerful: Value Storytelling, Brand Storytelling, Product Story Telling, Sales Storytelling, Leader Storytelling, and Culture Storytelling opens up our minds to worlds and possibilities that I certainly had not thought of before until I read the book.

I think Story Business is a must read for everyone.  Check it out by clicking: Story Business

Please reach out and thank the financial sponsors of A New Direction:

If you’re an author or narrator looking to produce high-quality audiobooks with ease, Zoundy is the ultimate tool you need. Designed specifically for audiobook creation, Zoundy delivers crystal-clear sound, seamless editing capabilities, and professional-grade production tools—all in one intuitive platform. Whether you’re recording your own book or refining your narration, Zoundy ensures every word is heard with perfection.

And here’s the best part: As a listener of A New Direction, you get an exclusive deal! Head over to zoundy.com/jay and use the code JAY25 at checkout to unlock special savings on your audiobook production. Don’t settle for anything less than studio-quality sound—power up your audiobook journey today with Zoundy!

Linda Craft Team, REALTORS®, for more than 40 years they have created relationships that last a life time.

That is why when it comes to real estate they are known as the “legends of customer service”.

They know that your home is personal.  It’s part of a life transition and it is part of your legacy of life.

And over the years they have been perfecting their service and skills to help reduce the stress out of buying and selling your home as well as helping thousands of others.

The Linda Craft Team would love to get to know you so that they can help you sell your home in the way it should be sold, and help you buy the home to start your next chapter of life.  Click on over to www.LindaCraft.com

You’ve built a solid career. You’ve hit the numbers, earned the title, and checked every box that was supposed to mean success. But lately, something feels… off. You’re performing, but not progressing. Winning, but not fulfilled. That voice in the back of your mind keeps saying, “There’s another level.” It’s not dissatisfaction — it’s awareness. The best leaders I know don’t settle; they evolve. And the moment you start asking, “What’s next?”—that’s where real growth begins.

The truth? High achievers hit ceilings not because they lack skill or drive, but because mindset quietly becomes the limiter. We get trapped by our own patterns, logic, and success stories. It’s easy to mistake momentum for mastery. But the world is shifting faster than your old playbook can handle, and staying where you are—mentally or professionally—is the most dangerous risk you’ll ever take. The uncomfortable question isn’t “Can you do more?” It’s “Will you?”

That’s where I come in. At Coaching Mavericks, I work with leaders and sales pros who have already proven they can perform—but are ready to think, lead, and live on a different level. Together, we uncover blind spots, reframe obstacles, and build the clarity, confidence, and consistency that separate the good from the extraordinary. You won’t get motivational fluff. You’ll get straight talk, real psychology, and results that move the needle.

If you’ve achieved what others admire but still feel there’s more inside you—there is. Don’t let comfort become your ceiling. Reach out to me directly at [email protected] or visit CoachingMavericks.com. The next level of your leadership, your performance, and your life is waiting. Let’s get to work.

Hey book lovers!  Would you rather read or listen to a book?  Well, here is your chance to listen to books and a FREE 30-day trial.

I use Audible and I love it!  I believe you will too.

Now you can get your FREE 30-day trial and other discounts by using going to www.audibletrial.com/AND

The post 6 Stories Every Leader Must Master to Win in Business appeared first on Jay Izso.