Angela Stephens sits down with author, speaker, and Wiseman Group partner Shawn Vanderhoven to explore what it really takes to lead brilliant work in an overwhelming, hyper-connected world. Shawn shares his personal morning ritual for creating focus, and the core ideas behind the Wiseman Group's leadership philosophy inspired by Liz Wiseman's book Multipliers. He explains why so many people feel like "butter spread over too much bread," and how great leaders combat that by creating space for focus, not adding more noise. Shawn reveals key insights from his six-year research project and upcoming book "Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World," including the difference between a bias for impact and a bias for action, how to avoid "chasing shiny objects" in growing businesses, and why exposing hidden workloads and keeping growth on the agenda are essential leadership practices.

Angela is joined by Professor Ilan Kelman, Professor of Disasters and Health at University College London and author of Disaster by Choice, to explore how disasters and health intersect in our everyday lives. Drawing on examples from the COVID-19 pandemic to earthquakes, floods, and wildfires, Ilan explains why "prevention is better than cure," what individuals can realistically do to prepare (like assembling a "go bag" and planning for sheltering in place) and how inequality and lack of resources make true preparedness impossible for many. To learn more about Ilan, visit his website.

Angela talks with Dani Dotterosa, a Benefit Auctioneer and gala fundraising consultant, about how to turn stressful nonprofit and school events into high-ROI fundraisers. Dani explains why you should treat your gala like the Super Bowl, how to separate "offense" (fundraising strategy) from "defense" (event logistics), and why ambiguity kills volunteer engagement and donations. She shares practical tips for getting better auction items, motivating busy parents and volunteers, setting budgets for first-time events, and building a "pure profit iceberg" with sponsors, matches, and paddle raisers. Dani also gives a peek into her unique background in iridology and how she creatively donates iris-reading parties to boost gala revenue. Learn more at her website AuctionsByDani.com! Subscribe to the RE-Focus Podcast to hear more podcasts on how Executives Focus & RE-Focus when they face diversity www.refocuswithangela.com/subscribe

Angela sits down with Robyn Anderson, CEO of Jam AI, to demystify AI for small business owners and professionals with busy brains. Robyn explains what AI and large language models like ChatGPT and Gemini actually are, how to use Custom GPTs as "virtual employees" for sales and marketing, and why generative engine optimization (GEO) is the new SEO. She shares practical tools (including website builders, branding helpers, and voice-to-text productivity apps), plus her own ADHD-friendly routines for staying focused, managing time, and avoiding AI rabbit holes. If you've been curious about using AI to grow your business—but feel overwhelmed—this conversation will show you where to start and how to make AI work for you.

In this episode of RE-Focus, Angela is joined by Chelsea Suitos, Head of Partnerships & Business Development at Spree AI and a former competitive athlete. Chelsea shares how the skills she gained in sports—discipline, resilience, and collaboration—continue to shape her approach to leadership in the business world. She also dives into the unique benefits of TEMU for small business owners and how it compares to other online marketplaces.

In this episode, Angela is joined by Karen Goldman, Managing Director of the Established Business Program and Services at the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC). Karen shares her expert insights on what it takes to be an exceptional manager—starting with the hiring process. She emphasizes how thoughtful delegation, especially providing context to your team, can make all the difference in outcomes and morale. Plus, we explore whether joining the WBDC could be the right move for your business growth and support network.