Something Extra

In this episode, we explore how a passion for helping others was shaped by an unconventional childhood. Gary Baker, President and CEO of Undivided Wealth Management, shares candid stories about growing up with young parents in a chaotic environment, and how the unwavering love he received became the foundation for his resilience and people-centric leadership style. Together, Lisa and Gary reflect on the power of embracing adversity, the importance of community, and the life-changing impact of servant leadership. Tune in for inspiring insights on turning life’s challenges into your greatest strengths and discovering the “something extra” within us all.

Guest Links:

• Gary’s LinkedIn
• Undivided Wealth Management

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

Lorraine Heywood, CEO and founder of Augustine Talent Group, explores how faith, leadership, and community come together to create lasting impact. Lorraine shares her journey from growing up in a dynamic, achievement-driven family to launching a successful career in recruiting-and how her love for people and her faith have shaped every step. Discover how Lorraine’s involvement with The Rooted Sisters and her bold move to launch the Houston chapter are empowering women to bring light into their workplaces and communities. With heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, this episode is a celebration of sisterhood, service, and the “something extra” that makes leaders truly shine.Guest Links:

• Lorraine’s LinkedIn
• Augustine Talent Group

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

In this heartfelt episode, Lisa sits down with Dr. Kendall Brune and Dr. Ryan Rogers to explore the transformative journeys of veterans and leaders. Dr. Rogers shares his deeply personal story of military service, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and how mentorship from Dr. Brune helped him find purpose beyond the battlefield. Together, they discuss the importance of community, the impact of unresolved trauma, and how a bias toward action and supportive relationships can change lives. Tune in for inspiring lessons on leadership, resilience, and the "something extra" that defines us all.Guest Links:

• ARISE Veteran Foundation
• Dr. Rogers’ LinkedIn
• Dr. Brune’s LinkedIn
• Dr. Kendall Brune

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

Dr. Rachel Glik, licensed professional counselor and author of A Soulful Marriage explores how the skills for building lasting, loving relationships, starting with self-love and responsibility, can be learned and practiced by anyone, not just couples. Dr. Glik shares her personal journey from sensitive child to renowned marriage counselor, emphasizing that strong relationships with ourselves and others are foundational to effective leadership and a fulfilling life. Whether you’re single, married, or simply seeking to deepen your connections, this episode offers practical wisdom and hope for anyone ready to grow.Guest Links:

• Dr. Glik’s LinkedIn
• Dr. Rachel Glik
• A Soulful Marriage: Healing Your Relationship With Responsibility, Growth, Priority, and Purpose

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

In this heartfelt episode of the Something Extra podcast, Matt and Maria Granados, founders of the Take Part Foundation, explore how faith and intentionality shape their lives and leadership. From their unique beginnings at Eagle U—a program dedicated to equipping young people with real-world success skills—to their entrepreneurial journeys and service-driven careers, Matt and Maria share how listening to their calling has led to unexpected opportunities and deeper impact. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical leadership lessons, and a reminder that the “something extra” in all of us can make a difference when we lead with purpose and heart.Guest Links:

• Matt’s LinkedIn
• Maria’s LinkedIn
• Life Pulse
• Best People: Best Place Podcast
• Let Your Fight Shine Podcast
• Take Part Foundation
• Wine, Women and Shoes 2025
• “Motivate the Unmotivated: A proven system for sustainable motivation”
• “The Intentional Week: See Your Week Differently. Live Your Life Intentionally”

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

Daniela Linero, Chief Customer Officer at Ontop, explores her inspiring journey from Santa Marta, Colombia, to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur and leader. She recounts pivotal moments, such as moving to Barcelona for an exchange program and founding her first company, Licify, at just 21 years old in the male-dominated construction industry. In this episode, Daniela reflects on lessons in leadership, courage, and stepping out of her comfort zone. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and adaptability in overcoming challenges and achieving success.Guest Links:

• Daniela’s LinkedIn
• Ontop

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

In this week’s episode, Jeff Brittain, Managing Director at FedEx Institute of Technology, University of Memphis, and seasoned global IT leader, shares his journey into leadership, his career path from engineering to IT leadership, and the life lessons he's gained along the way. He emphasizes the importance of communication, adaptability, and maintaining positivity in leadership roles, while reflecting on his own evolution as a leader with a "professional casual" style. The conversation also touches on Jeff's passion for fitness and problem-solving, showcasing how these interests contribute to his holistic approach to life and work. This inspiring episode highlights the "something extra" that defines impactful leaders across industries.Guest Links:

• Jeff’s LinkedIn
• FedEx.Memphis.Edu

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

In this episode, Lisa sits down with Dave Peacock, CEO of Advantage Solutions, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, faith, and intentionality. Dave shares his journey from humble beginnings to leading major organizations like Anheuser-Busch and Schnucks, emphasizing how pivotal life moments shaped his leadership style. Together, they explore the importance of building meaningful connections, fostering a strong organizational culture, and living with purpose in every decision. Tune in for valuable lessons on how to lead with heart and make an impact in your community and beyond!Guest Links:

• Dave’s LinkedIn
• Advantage Solutions

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

What happens when you leave a successful 20-year career as a managing partner at a national CPA firm with no clear plan? Vonna Laue, author of "Glad I Didn't Know: Lessons Learned Through Life's Challenges And Unexpected Blessings" shares her remarkable journey from small-town South Dakota to partner at a national CPA firm to board chair at World Vision USA. Tune in as she reflects on lessons of trust, leadership, and obedience, offering wisdom on navigating transitions, building trust in organizations, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.  Whether you're a leader, mentor, or someone facing uncertainty, this conversation will leave you encouraged to trust the process and embrace life’s unexpected blessings. Guest Links:

• Vonna’s LinkedIn
• Glad I Didn't Know: Lessons Learned Through Life's Challenges and Unexpected Blessings 

Credits: Host: Lisa NicholsExecutive Producer: Jenny HealMarketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe SzynkowskiPodcast Engineer: Portside Media

This week, we honor Danny Ludeman, who recently passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. A visionary leader, Danny made everyone feel seen and valued. Though not a St. Louis native, he embraced the city with unmatched passion. His episode was #18 of the Something Extra podcast, which aired in February of 2019. More than 300 episodes later, his message still resonates. Greg and Lisa Nichols, along with their daughter Ally, share a deep connection with Danny, remembering his quiet acts of kindness. After retiring from Wells Fargo, Danny attended seminary to equip himself to help others, then led Concordance Academy to new heights. His legacy lives on. We invite you to revisit this powerful conversation.

Guest Links:

• Concordance Academy
• Daniel James Ludeman, Sr. Obituary

Credits: 
Host: Lisa Nichols
Executive Producer: Jenny Heal
Marketing Support: Landon Burke and Joe Szynkowski
Podcast Engineer: Portside Media