Turning Vision into Collective Action

Leadership guides activities toward meaningful goals. In communities, leaders act as the "conscious mind," turning scattered efforts into clear projects. Nkumu Katalay applies this both in community work and in his artistic projects — a revolving group shaped by his vision and changing musicians. This flexible structure mirrors New York’s fast pace, teaching him to guide without rigid control. His Lifelong Project Band trains new leaders while sharing Congolese culture. By treating his band as a project, Nkumu fosters both musical and personal growth through shared vision and collaboration.

Leading with Clarity, Adapting with Grace

Nkumu emphasizes treating performances with professionalism — showing up early, coordinating attire, and adjusting to each venue and its audience.

He balances guiding his group while allowing for individual expression. Managing diverse personalities and adjusting to different settings — from Harlem's Shrine to the Apollo Theater — strengthens his leadership. Even during his return to Kinshasa after 28 years, he gathered local musicians to create new music, showing how his leadership transcends borders and continues to connect communities.

About Nkumu Katalay:

Nkumu Katalay is an artist, speaker, multi-instrumentalist, and social activist committed to promoting humanity.

Born in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, he now lives in New York. Nkumu emphasizes the significance of Congolese cultures in modern history and founded the musical group "Life Long Project," which highlights positive narratives of Congolese culture through music and educational initiatives. He also established an Afro-Congolese dance program, offering weekly dance activities throughout New York for all ages in schools, businesses, and cultural centers.

For Nkumu, music is a means to navigate the world and unify his identity's fragments. He is fascinated by musical notes and rhythms, exploring their movements and patterns alongside human cultures. He believes that musical notes are cultural fragments in sound, and their interactions create music, similar to how cultures seek alternative expressions. His musical journey is deeply rooted in the Congolese "Mbonda" or "Ngoma" (drum) and dance traditions.

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In this episode of RISE TO LEAD, I talk with Coach Clarence Ferguson about discipline, mindset, and personal growth. He shares why weighing yourself daily builds awareness, the power of consistency, and how small habits lead to big results. We discuss taking ownership, adapting to challenges, and learning from failure instead of fearing it.

Coach Clarence emphasizes that understanding the deeper "why" behind our actions is essential, whether it's related to habits or goals. He shares how uncovering the root causes, such as trauma or emotional protection, can shift behavior. Discipline is not effortless, and maintaining habits requires setting realistic goals and self-reflection. He advises checking in with others and reassessing goals consistently, while forgiving oneself for falling short. Self-punishment is counterproductive and erodes self-esteem, so focusing on progress is key.

We also discuss the power of questions over affirmations in unlocking new possibilities. Asking questions can help reframe beliefs, making them more aligned with achievable outcomes.

About Clarence Ferguson:

Coach Clarence is a visionary leader who is transforming the lives of men and women over 40, assisting them to live their absolute best lives. He's a true embodiment of what it means to conquer the three fundamental pillars of life: fitness, finance, and mindset.

Clarence Ferguson, the dynamic CEO of "Fit Over 40 with Coach Clarence." Clarence doesn't just lead a tribe; he nurtures a community of individuals who are determined.

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Fit Over 40 withCoach Clarence

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Unlocking the Power of Identity in Leadership

What makes certain leaders stand out effortlessly, drawing people in with their presence? In this episode, Kevin Britz explores the concept of contagious identity—how individuals shape their influence, step into their power, and shift their mindset to take ownership of their roles. He shares how deeply ingrained beliefs can hold people back and how breaking free from past narratives unlocks new possibilities. Leadership, he argues, is about self-awareness and the ability to create an environment where others feel empowered. Tune in to discover how embracing your identity can transform your leadership impact.

Building Unapologetic Confidence in Leadership

We also discuss how true leadership is rooted in unapologetic confidence. We explore how being intentional with your communication and actions can shape perceptions and build trust. Kevin shares how confidence isn’t about being boastful, but about being grounded in your abilities and values. We dive into how this kind of self-assurance inspires others to follow suit, creating a powerful, authentic leadership presence.

About Kevin Britz:

Kevin Britz, from Gauteng, South Africa, is a dynamic leadership coach, speaker, marketing strategist, and the influential host of The Lunchtime Series, where he engages with global experts to share actionable insights on leadership, team performance, and personal growth. With over 15 years of industry experience, Kevin is renowned for empowering individuals and organizations to reach their highest potential.

As a Prosci Certified Change Manager, NLP Master

Practitioner, and Leadership Management International Associate, Kevin designs and delivers powerful workshops that help teams break through barriers, enhance collaboration, and achieve sustainable success. His expertise spans strategic leadership, human behavior, and innovative marketing, making him a transformative force in professional development.

Kevin is also actively growing Contagious Identity, integrating its principles into his teachings to help leaders and teams unlock their full potential. Recognized as the legendary voice of “Steve” from FNB’s iconic radio ads, he brings an engaging presence and sharp insights to every conversation—redefining career journeys and inspiring thousands worldwide.

www.kevinbritz.com

www.linkedin.com/in/kevinbritz-leadership

www.facebook.com/leadershipbydesignsa/

www.youtube.com/@TheLunchtimeSeries

www.kevinbritz.com/book/

https://linktr.ee/kevinbritz

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The Power of Small Company Experiences

James Deaker from California (originally from New Zealand) reflects on the valuable lessons he learned from his time in small companies, sharing insights on how these environments encourage innovation, flexibility, and problem-solving. James highlights how working without predefined roles allowed him to take on diverse responsibilities and tackle challenges that pushed him out of his comfort zone. He explains how this mindset later shaped his approach in larger corporations and helped him challenge the status quo, even when it wasn’t the easiest route.

Adaptability in Leadership

James highlights the value of adaptability in leadership. He shares how key skills—like a willingness to learn and the ability to engage with diverse teams—remain essential across different environments. James discusses the importance of tailoring management approaches to the unique dynamics of each team and situation. He also delves into his own experiences, emphasizing how effective leadership often comes from a deep understanding of both the people and the context within which you work.

About James Deaker:

James Deaker from California is the host of The Yield Doctor, a podcast and video series that explores the intricacies of pricing and yield management in the digital advertising industry. Originally from New Zealand, James earned his Ph.D. at Stanford University in Engineering-Economic Systems and Operations Research before launching a 20-year career in digital advertising. With leadership roles at Yahoo, Microsoft, Verizon Media, Oath, and Rapt, James has seen the industry evolve from the inside. Now, as the CEO and Founder of Korukea Media, James now helps businesses optimize their advertising strategies and unlock the full potential of their digital assets.

www.korukeamedia.com

www.linkedin.com/in/deaker/

www.youtube.com/@jamesdeaker

https://deaker.podbean.com/

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What does it take to rise above challenges and create a life of impact?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Summer Watson from Washington, DC to discuss overcoming obstacles, finding purpose, and taking bold steps toward success. Summer introduces us to KORE, which stands for how we Kinetically connect, Organically learn from one another, Reshape lives through diverse interaction, and Empower one another to promote change. We explore cross-generational mentorship as well as the mindset shifts and key decisions that shape a fulfilling path.

Embracing Differences and Finding Connection

Summer and I reflect on the impact of feeling different and how shared experiences can lead to meaningful connections. We acknowledge that everyone’s story shapes who they are, but there’s power in embracing those differences and finding common ground with others. Summer shares how, even in moments of isolation or misunderstanding, these formative experiences sparked a deeper understanding of self and others. This insight reinforces the idea that uniqueness should be celebrated because it’s through our individual stories that we truly connect. Summer discusses the power of understanding others' experiences through a phenomenological lens. By listening reflectively and asking clarifying questions, leaders can connect with diverse perspectives. This approach fosters respect and collaboration, allowing leaders to assess needs and desires before creating impactful solutions.

About Summer Watson:

Dr. Summe r Watson, MHS, PhD from Washington, DC, is a High-Performance Coach, Dr. of Psychology, Podcaster, Event Producer, Live Show Host, Author, Mentor, and Military Spouse of over 21-years. Dr. Watson is also the owner of KORE Women, which supports companies to develop thriving cross-generational leadership and mentorship programs fostering healthy and sustainable communities. KORE stands for how we Kinetically connect, Organically learn from one another, Reshape lives through diverse interaction, and Empower one another to promote change, which are values that run through everything Dr. Watson does from running her business, podcasting, to creating community events and community development.

LinkedIn: Summer Watson, MHS, PhD

Instagram: @KOREWomen

TikTok: @KOREWomen

Facebook: @KOREWomen

KORE Women podcast:

www.korewomen.com/podcast/

Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kore-women-podcast/id1401140103

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf5GH2n5JM1HuRBIzWgDPLg

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Setting SMART Goals for Career Success

In this episode, Tabatha Jones from California shares the power of setting SMART goals for career and personal growth. We explore why many professionals neglect to set specific goals for their careers and how establishing a clear vision is the essential foundation. Tabatha illustrates this with inspiring stories of clients who took small but bold actions, achieving promotions and entrepreneurial breakthroughs.

Overcoming Self-Doubt & Building Confidence to Excel in Your Career

Tabatha explains the power of overcoming self-doubt and embracing confidence as a key driver for career success. She highlights how many women’s fears and insecurities can prevent them from stepping into leadership roles, and how confronting these challenges can unlock new opportunities. Through practical strategies, Tabatha encourages listeners to set clear boundaries, make bold decisions, and focus on personal growth, ultimately empowering them to break through barriers and achieve their career goals.

About Tabatha Jones:

Tabatha Jones is the CEO of Empowered Leadership Coaching, a Career Advancement & Leadership Coach, author. With 20+ years of leadership experience, she took the leap from corporate America into coaching at the age of 50 where she now helps ambitious women break through career barriers, build unshakable confidence, and secure promotions faster. Her clients achieve leadership success by developing strategic career plans, elevating their visibility, and positioning themselves as top candidates for advancement. She specializes in working with gen-x women who are done playing small and want to make the next years the best of their career.

www.empowered-leader.com

www.linkedin.com/in/tabatha-jones-4485854

 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/empowered

leadership-coaching-with-tabatha/id1769107570

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Building Trust Through Vision, Collaboration, and Authentic Leadership

Jenny Alday Townsend from Florida shares how a clear vision and goal have driven her company’s success, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. By inspiring students and teachers to take ownership of education and enabling her team to teach with autonomy, Jenny creates a non-judgmental, empowering environment. She emphasizes the importance of mutual reliance, balancing leadership responsibilities while allowing employees to grow independently. Jenny reflects on learning to step back, giving her team space to own their journeys while maintaining strong, trusting relationships.

Applying the "Stroke It" Method to Business Success

Jenny shares how the “Stroke It” method goes beyond validation—it’s about personalized acknowledgment, fostering a workplace where employees feel genuinely appreciated. She starts with an intake form to learn each team member’s preferences, from favorite coffee to love languages. This allows her to tailor gestures of recognition, like surprising a committed team member with their favorite treats and a handwritten note. Jenny also adapts her approach to individual preferences for praise, using tools like DISC analysis to determine if public recognition, a private note, or a casual conversation is most effective.

Beyond gestures, transparency and trust are central to her leadership philosophy. By openly communicating challenges, like financial constraints, Jenny ensures her team understands the bigger picture while maintaining engagement

About Jenny Alday Townsend:

Jenny Alday Townsend is a keynote speaker, podcaster, Amazon Best Selling author, and thriving businesswoman focused on inspiring individuals to achieve balance in their professional lives and marriage.

Having experienced and triumphed over her marital challenges, she penned the book Stroke It. It is a means of supporting others facing similar struggles. Jenny is the proud proprietor of Music Compound, a renowned music academy that has garnered accolades such as Best Woman-Owned Business and Small Business of the Year. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Jenny was honored with the Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2019. Now happily married, Jenny enjoys traveling, savoring delectable cuisine, and cherishing quality time spent with loved ones.

www.jennyaldaytownsend.com

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https://www.youtube.com/@JennyTownsend

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Amazon (Book): https://a.co/d/41Rcm48

www.jennyaldaytownsend.com/podcast

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Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Business

Vince Warnock from Victoria, Australia, opens up about his experience with imposter syndrome, from feeling out of place at a business breakfast to confronting his inner doubts while achieving success. He shares how a pivotal conversation revealed that even high achievers often feel like frauds.

AI's Role in Revolutionizing Writing and Publishing

Vince shares how AI has revolutionized writing and publishing, especially for neurodivergent authors. He highlights how AI has eradicated writer's block, making it easier for authors to articulate their ideas and structure their thoughts. AI also plays a crucial role in generating book descriptions, outshining his team’s efforts and allowing them to focus on other creative tasks (which they also preferred). Additionally, AI has leveled the playing field for authors diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia, providing them with the support they need to write and publish effectively.

Harnessing AI for Business Growth and Innovation

Vince talks about how AI is revolutionizing businesses across industries. For example, it also offers new ways to engage with customers. By embracing AI, businesses can not only improve efficiency but also unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation. The key is to integrate AI thoughtfully and continuously adapt to its evolving capabilities.

About Vince Warnock:

Vince Warnock, based in Australia, is an eleven-times best-selling author, publisher and award-winning Marketing and Visibility coach. He is known for his expertise in neuro-marketing, publishing, and AI and has been presented with numerous awards, including being included in the Fearless50, a program designed by Adobe to recognize the world's top 50 marketers. Vince is also the host of the top 1.5% podcast “Chasing the Insights” and the founder of ATG Publishing and the Sisterhood of AI.

https://chasingtheinsights.com  

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Embracing the Five Pillars of Leadership

In this episode, I speak with Bernie Borges from Florida about his approach to leadership and the vital role of self-awareness in shaping leadership styles. We explore how leaders can better support their teams by focusing on the five key pillars of life: health, fitness, career, relationships, and legacy. Bernie discusses how leaders, who understand and fulfill these pillars for themselves, can lead with empathy, creating an environment that nurtures both personal and team growth. He shares insights from his research on fulfillment versus happiness and emphasizes the importance of providing resources that help employees thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Building Connections through Vulnerability and Holistic Leadership

Leaders can build deeper connections with their teams by openly sharing aspects of their own fulfillment journey. This vulnerability fosters authenticity and relatability, helping close the gap between leader and team. When leaders are bold enough to be human, it strengthens trust, loyalty, and overall team engagement. By focusing on the holistic view of their team members and fostering empathy, leaders can challenge conventional thinking and create an intentional culture that drives sustained engagement and innovation without alienating those who prefer the status quo.

About Bernie Borges:

Bernie Borges is the host of the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast and the Fulfillment Architect at Thrive Media. Borges partners with leaders at organizations to design and implement tailored strategies that foster a more fulfilled and thriving multigenerational workforce. Borges helps leaders cultivate a balanced and meaningful work environment by developing a Fulfillment Centric Leadership™ approach focused on optimizing employees’ five key pillars: Health, Fitness, Career, Relationships, and Legacy. Leveraging his decades of marketing and communications experience, he leads workshops and helps facilitate effective strategies that help business leaders to optimize employee well-being and engagement, leading to increased productivity, higher retention, and career satisfaction.

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www.youtube.com/@midlifefulfilled

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lled-podcast-thriving-beyond-40-without/id1608001601

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Shifting from Victim to Visionary

Kris Whitehead from New Hampshire shares how his love for storytelling and community shaped his purpose. Raised by a generous grandfather, Kris learned the importance of giving and creating harmony within abundance. Through his journey, he transitioned from a scarcity mindset to a place of inner peace, realizing that true success lies in personal integrity and uplifting others. Today, he encourages acts of kindness and seeks to share the gift of peace with everyone he encounters.

The Power of Humility and Intuition in Leadership

Kris reflects on the harmony he observed between his conservative father and liberal stepmother, which taught him the value of openness and understanding differing perspectives. He connects this to leadership, stressing the importance of humility, experience, and fostering other leaders. Additionally, Kris emphasizes the role of intuition in leadership, suggesting that when accessed authentically, it can strengthen one's leadership style and effectiveness in unique ways.

About Kris Whitehead:

Kris Whitehead, Leadership|Business|Mindset Coach, is the founder of Iconic Alliance - a whole life and business coaching program designed to help business owners and entrepreneurs excel in every area of their lives. He believes a holistic approach to coaching that encompasses every aspect of a person’s life is the best way to help his clients build successful and sustainable businesses.

Kris first started in the coaching space in 2010 with his program Think To Succeed. Along with his late business partner Lonnie Robertson, Kris grew Think To Succeed to a world-wide coaching practice in mere months. He has now brought all of that experience and knowledge, along with over 25 years as a business owner in multiple other industries, to the Iconic Alliance program. Kris not only is a Best-Selling author, but also currently owns and operates 3 successful businesses, and has grown 5 over the last 17 years - ranging from 2 renovation and design companies, real estate investing, and several profitable online businesses. He was also the Director of Executive Coaching for an online coaching and development company that he helped build to 8 figures. His goal is to help YOU win… at business, at relationships, and life!

www.linkedin.com/in/kriswhitehead/

www.youtube.com/@kriswhiteheadofficial

www.facebook.com/thekriswhitehead

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Podcast: https://iconicalliance.com/podcast-9103-6507

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