Quick Take | Tips to Help Executives and Leaders Grow

How do you know if you actually have influence—or if people are just following orders? Influence isn’t just about authority or making decisions; it’s about trust, relationships, and how others engage with you. But too often, leaders assume they have influence without looking for real evidence.

In this episode, we explore what true influence looks like and how to measure it. Susie shares a personal story of winning over a skeptical audience, while James reflects on how leaders can build credibility beyond their titles. We also discuss the importance of listening, vulnerability, and creating an environment where people want to engage—not just comply. 

If you’re a leader wondering whether your influence is real, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you show up.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Why authority isn’t the same as influence—and how to tell the difference.
• The role of vulnerability in building authentic connections.
• How to assess whether people respect you or just follow orders.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

AI is changing the hiring process, from screening resumes to influencing how interviews are conducted—but what does that really mean for job seekers? Is AI helping candidates land jobs, or is it just another system to outsmart?

In this episode, we dig into how AI is being used in hiring, whether candidates should rely on AI-generated resumes, and why soft skills still play a crucial role. We also debate the ethics and effectiveness of AI in interviews—does it make the process fairer or strip away authenticity? If you're wondering how to navigate job hunting in the AI age, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The role AI plays in screening resumes and conducting interviews.
• How job seekers are using AI to optimize applications—and whether they should.
• Why soft skills and human connection still matter in hiring.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

We all know that feedback is essential for growth—but why is it so tricky to get right? Whether you're giving it or receiving it, emotions, biases, and communication breakdowns can turn a simple critique into a full-blown misunderstanding.

In this episode, Susie shares a recent experience where feedback didn’t land as intended and how it spiraled into something much bigger. We dive into the challenges leaders face when delivering tough feedback, why timing and emotional state matter, and how to make sure your message is actually heard. If you've ever struggled with feedback—on either side of the conversation—this one's for you.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Why feedback often gets distorted as it moves through different channels.
• The importance of timing and emotional awareness when delivering feedback.
• How leaders can ensure feedback is constructive rather than reactionary.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Book: Thanks for the Feedback by Douglas Stone & Sheila Heen

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

What does it take to stay at the top of your game as a leader—year after year? In this episode, we sit down with Alex Porter, CEO of Location3, a digital ad agency specializing in franchise marketing. With 25 years in the industry, Alex shares how he stays innovative, the leadership lessons he’s learned along the way, and why self-awareness is key to long-term success.

We dive into the importance of balancing optimism with realism, why great leaders surround themselves with different perspectives, and how structured systems like EOS can help companies scale. But as much as leadership is about strategy, it’s also about mindset—something Alex has studied for years. Tune in for a candid conversation about learning from mistakes, trusting your team, and maybe even rethinking how you breathe.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The balance between optimism and realism in leadership.
• Why surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives makes you a stronger leader.
• How structured systems like EOS can help companies grow and stay accountable.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System): www.eosworldwide.com
• Acumax Personality Testing: www.acumaxindex.com
• Breath by James Nestor: www.mrjamesnestor.com/breath-book

Connect with Alex:
www.linkedin.com/in/alexporter
www.location3.com

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

Innovation is something every company says they want, but what does it actually look like in practice? Leaders push for creativity and fresh thinking, but often get stuck in the same routines that make true innovation difficult. Is it about changing team structures? Shifting individual mindsets? Creating the right cultural conditions? And if we know these things, why is it still so hard?

In this episode, we dive into the messy reality of innovation—why it’s easier said than done, how organizations struggle to break out of their usual patterns, and what might actually help teams think differently. Do we land on a perfect answer? Tune in to find out. 

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Why “innovation” is a buzzword that’s often misunderstood.
• The challenges of breaking free from routine thinking in teams and organizations.
• Thought-provoking strategies for encouraging creativity—without forcing it.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

Is it time to return to the office, or have we mastered remote work? In this episode, we take a fresh look at the return-to-office debate and why more companies are pushing for in-person work again. We discuss the hidden benefits of being together, the realities of hybrid work, and whether full-time remote setups are sustainable long-term. If you’re rethinking how and where you work, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1. Why companies are re-evaluating remote work and pushing for in-person collaboration.
2. The benefits of working together in person that we may have overlooked.
3. How leaders can balance business needs with employee flexibility and engagement.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

The first 90 days of a new role are full of energy, excitement, and big plans—but what happens when the honeymoon phase ends? In this episode, we explore why many leaders struggle after the initial momentum fades and how to avoid common pitfalls like burnout, boredom, and overwhelm. We’ll share strategies to maintain your impact, adjust your approach, and build a sustainable leadership style that lasts well beyond day 90.

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1. Why leaders often struggle after the first 90 days and how to avoid common mistakes.
2. The importance of maintaining perspective and creating separation between work and personal identity.
3. How to stay engaged, adaptable, and effective when the initial excitement wears off.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

Not all team dynamics are loud and obvious—some of the most important signals are the quietest. In this episode, we dive into the subtle, unspoken cues that shape collaboration, trust, and engagement within a team. Learn how to recognize shifts in team chemistry, navigate remote team challenges, and ask the right questions to uncover hidden issues. If you want to lead with awareness and intention, this conversation is a must.

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1. How to observe and interpret unspoken team dynamics in meetings.
2. Strategies for maintaining team cohesion and trust in remote work environments.
3. Questions leaders can ask to uncover hidden issues and improve team communication.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

Can you believe it? We’ve hit 100 episodes! In this milestone episode, we take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come, the lessons we’ve learned, and the unexpected joys of podcasting. Join us as we share insights from our journey, the moments that stood out, and what’s next for the show. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the Quick Take community, this celebration is for you!

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1. What we’ve learned about podcasting and leadership over 100 episodes.
2. The impact of consistency and showing up every week, no matter what.
3. Our plans for the future and how we’re evolving the show to stay fresh and engaging.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/

How do great leaders find their authentic voice? In this episode, we break down what it means to develop a leadership style that feels genuine and effective. From building a leadership portfolio to adapting your approach for different situations, we share actionable tips to help you grow as a leader. Whether you're refining your style or starting from scratch, this conversation will inspire you to lead with purpose and confidence.

In this episode, we discuss the following:
1. The importance of creating a leadership portfolio to track growth and achievements.
2. Why flexibility in leadership style is critical and how to build it.
3. Mapping your current leadership style and using it to define future goals.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/