Speak In Flow

In a B2B environment, people often overlook the human side. But at the end of the day, we're all human beings running a business. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, Robin Daniels, the "Ryan Reynolds of B2B" and CMO behind 2.5 IPOs, reveals how to be emotional, authentic, and fun while telling a story that motivates your team to work like a well-oiled machine.

Join Robin and Melinda to learn that fundamental human needs, to connect, to understand, and to feel inspired, lie behind every IPO, every board meeting, and every sales pitch.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The 3 Levels of Impact

Robin's signature framework

• Tactical (linear results)

• Strategic (team-powered leaps)

• Epic (exponential outcomes)

"If an idea doesn't make you ask 'Is this stupid?' it's probably not groundbreaking enough."

Why Leaders Must Overcommunicate

"In the absence of information, people invent their own stories." 

Robin shares hard-won lessons from IPO journeys about cutting through uncertainty, even when the news isn't perfect.

The Marathon Mindset

How training for 26.2 miles taught Robin to rehearse until messaging lives "in your bones", and why he makes his teams practice in mirrors before big moments.

Authenticity + Humor = Brand Magic

From his “Ryan Reynolds of B2B” persona to his acting class days, Robin shows that mixing fun with function makes communication memorable.

“People don't just want to connect with the brand, but also with the people behind the brand.”

Connect with Robin Daniels

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robingdaniels/ 

About the Guest: 

Robin Daniels is the Chief Business Zensai, a 3x CMO with over 20 years of marketing and growth leadership at Salesforce, LinkedIn, WeWork, and Matterport. A veteran of 2.5 IPOs and hyper-growth scaling, he specializes in building teams that marry operational excellence with human-centric storytelling.

Fun-facts:

• 🇩🇰 Global Roots: From Denmark to 50+ countries, Robin brings cross-cultural flair to boardrooms and marathon courses alike (he’s run 10+).
• 🎓 Proud Dad: Currently navigating college move-in days between keynote speeches and mirror rehearsals of Jerry Maguire monologues.

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Media and technology strategist Evo Heyning (CEO of Reality Craft, VP of XR Guild) sits down with Melinda Lee in this episode of the Speak in Flow Podcast to explore how AI is reshaping communication, creativity, and disaster resilience, while revealing why slowing down might be the key to wielding these tools effectively. From rebuilding homes after wildfires to crafting ethical AI policies, Evo shares how to lead with intention in a noisy digital world.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Double-Edged Sword of AI Tools

Evo dives into the paradox of generative AI. While it can accelerate workflows, like turning smartphone scans into permit-ready architectural plans for disaster zones, it also demands fierce discernment.

"Can I trust the company behind this tool?" 

Evo urges us to ask ourselves this question before entering our data into an AI tool.

The Art of "Promptcraft"

 "If the output looks cool but isn’t what you imagined, you’re being led by the tool, not leading it." 

Evo shares how her teams blend AI with human intuition, warning against losing your vision in the process.

Less Input, More Insight

AI’s verbosity is a trap. "Large language models give you tons of information, very little meaning," Evo laughs. The fix? "Step back, and ask: Does this add insight, or just noise?"

The Ultimate Question for Creators

Evo leaves us with a challenge.

 "Generative tools invite us to give language to our vision. But first, ask: What world do I actually want to create? If you’re stuck in dystopian headlines, you’ll just recreate noise."

Connect with Evo Heyning

Website: https://evo.ist/ 

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evonne/ 

YouTube: @RealitycraftArt 

Instagram: @amoration

About the Guest: 

Evo Heyning is a pioneering media technologist and futurist at the forefront of AI and XR innovation. Blending generative tools and immersive experiences, Evo shapes ethical and creative futures. As the founder of Realitycraft and the VP of the XR Guild, Evo has led groundbreaking projects, championing technology that amplifies human potential rather than replacing it.

Fun-facts:

• 🌐 Virtual Diplomat: Served as the first avatar ambassador between diplomatic offices in virtual worlds (2009).
• 🎥 AI Trailblazer: Taught YouTube to integrate AI tools back in 2014 and produced the Affordable Care Act’s launch campaign.
• 🎨 Multidisciplinary Creator: When not sculpting digital worlds, Evo bakes gluten-free treats and hunts antiques for storytelling inspiration.

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

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Nada Nasserdeen, two-time TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and CEO of Rise Up For You, went from a $100 in her pocket and two suitcases to building a global leadership development company. In this powerful conversation with Melinda Lee, Nada shares how rock bottom became her foundation, the neuroscience behind self-confidence, and why 95% of leaders think they're self-aware, but only 10% truly are.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The 4 Pillars of the Top 10%

Nada’s research with Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurs revealed the non-negotiable skills for success:

 “If you don’t believe in yourself, your communication collapses.”

• Self-Confidence
• Emotional & Social Intelligence 
• Transformational Leadership 
• Influential Communication 

Why Leaders Fail at Communication

“Influence isn’t about talking, it’s about evoking movement.”

• The fluff trap: “People talk in circles because they’re nervous or unprepared.”
• Nada’s drill: Random Q&A sessions to train precision (record yourself and cut filler words!).

Confidence Is Learned, Not Inherited

Nada couldn’t pronounce R, S, H, or Z until age 17 -practicing in the mirror to break her toddler-like speech.

How singing hid her impediment and led to a career in musical theater (and later, commanding boardrooms).

The Breaking Point That Built An Empire

“Everything you need is already inside you. Rise up for you.”

Nada’s company was born from divorce, debt, and losing both parents within a year. All while showering at a 24-hour gym and working from a hospital.

Connect with Nada Nasserdeen

Website: NadaLena.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadalena/ 

About the Guest: 

Nada Nasserdeen is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author & founder of Rise Up For You, who transformed personal adversity into a global leadership movement. Her neuroscience-backed Rise Power Method has trained 100,000+ leaders across 50 countries - from Fortune 5 boards to at-risk youth.

Fun-facts:

• 💡 Philanthropy with Punch: Teaches soft skills to incarcerated youth, earning her the OC Sheriff’s Award for transforming lives behind bars.
• 📸 Times Square Icon: In 2023, her impact was immortalized with a billboard in NYC.

When life throws you a curveball, like a sudden layoff, it takes more than just a positive mindset to turn it into something greater. It takes courage, vision, and the willingness to bet on yourself.

Tom Gibbons knows this firsthand. After losing his stable corporate job, he didn’t just pivot, he built two thriving companies: Darts Only Golf, a high-end golf networking and charity business, and Access CRE, a commercial real estate consultancy. In this candid conversation with Melinda Lee, Tom reveals how poor leadership nearly derailed his vision and how trusting his team transformed everything.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Hiring Mistake That Almost Sank Him

"I stopped hiring friends and family... People don’t always align with what you’re trying to achieve."

• Early mistake: Hiring friends/family (a common mistake) led to "silent quitting" and missed goals.

• Fix: Tom shifted to hiring for skills + coachability, creating a team that now holds him accountable (even sending follow-up emails to keep him on track).

The "Darts Only" Mindset

How Tom’s "listen-to-the-market" approach turned a side hustle into a national golf community, creating connections through shared experiences.

💡 Strategy: When life throws a curveball, build your own course. Combine what you love with what you're great at.

Leadership = Parenting

"Lead by example. If your team sees you loading equipment at 6 AM, they’ll hustle harder too."

Your team (like your kids) doesn’t do what you say, they do what you do. Showing up in the trenches matters more than any title.

The Trust Equation

"Now my team calls me out when I’m stuck in my own head... They send follow-ups because they want to."

The game-changing shift from micromanaging to collaborating and how it accelerated growth.

Connect with Tom Gibbons

Website:

 www.axiscre.com 

www.dartsonlygolf.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasgibbons/ 

About the Guest: 

Tom Gibbons is an entrepreneur who turned his twin passions, golf and real estate, into two thriving businesses. As founder of Darts Only Golf, he’s redefining networking with high-energy tournaments. By day, he’s CEO of Axis CRE, leveraging his experience in commercial real estate grit to help clients build wealth.

Fun-facts:

• 🍳 From Chef to CEO: Trained as a professional chef before trading knives for spreadsheets.
• 🚒 Firefighter Hustle: Served as a volunteer firefighter (because saving lives wasn’t stressful enough).
• ⛳ Golf’s Secret Weapon: Named his company after golfers’ slang for “bullseye”, because he aims for big impact, not just birdies.

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Joshua Kitching, owner of Bay Area Piping and Equipment, went from leading military squads and construction crews to questioning his own voice as an entrepreneur. In this raw conversation with Melinda Lee, Josh shares how stress and self-doubt nearly derailed his communication, the Zoom call that became a wake-up call, and the mindset shifts that transformed his leadership. 

Learn how slowing down can accelerate your business growth.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Crisis Point

How a disastrous virtual presentation exposed Josh’s self-doubt and became the catalyst for change.

The Power of a Pause

“Take a breath- even if it’s just in the mirror.”

Joshua Kitching’s journey reveals a counterintuitive truth: slowing down often speeds up success. When stress hijacked his ability to communicate, he discovered that a simple pause could reset his mindset.

The “Good Enough” Mindset

“Remind yourself: You are good enough.”

Entrepreneurs often tie their worth to outcomes, leading to paralyzing doubt. Josh opens up about his realization: “Am I really the guy to do this?” a question many leaders whisper but rarely admit.

The Follow-up Shift

“The universe responds to intentionality.”- Melinda Lee

Early on, Josh assumed silence meant rejection. But by reframing follow-ups as opportunities to nurture relationships, regardless of immediate payoff, he unlocked unexpected opportunities.

Connect with Joshua Kitching

Website: www.sfbape.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kitching-06119999/ 

About the Guest: 

Joshua Kitching is the tradesman-turned-CEO, proving that grit and humility build empires. With nearly two decades in mechanical construction, he tackled San Francisco’s skyline (Salesforce Tower, Chase Center) and the battlefield, transitioning from the U.S. Army Military Police to leading teams of 250+ in the trenches of HVAC and prefab. Now, as CEO of Bay Area Pipe & Equipment, he’s rewriting the playbook on craftsmanship.

Fun-facts:

• 🐄 4H Roots: Spent 9 years in 4H raising animals and honing leadership skills through youth conferences (proof that showmanship translates to boardrooms!).
• 🌎 Global Soldier: Deployed to 7 countries during 8 years of Army service, developing adaptability that serves him daily in construction.

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

This world can be a hard place to live in, and staying true to yourself in the face of adversity is one of the greatest tests we face. In this raw and resonant episode, Melinda Lee sits down with Masada Ellis -poet, founder of Not Apologetic Studios, and advocate for radical authenticity- to explore how embracing your truth transforms leadership, art, and everyday life. From surviving military prison to teaching chess to kids, Masada shares hard-won wisdom on turning pain into purpose.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The "Not Apologetic" Mindset (Spoiler: It’s Not What You Think)

“We don’t need a leader of the people. We need a leader with the people, for the people.”

Masada unpacks the profound difference between being unapologetically selfish and authentically self-honest, flipping the script on ego-driven leadership.

How to spot (and survive) toxic leadership

“A lot of leaders want the team to lose so they can win individually.”

Masada’s raw military prison story (after trusting the wrong superior post-9/11) becomes a masterclass in discernment. Exposing why frenemies sabotage success.

Parenting as the ultimate leadership training ground

“Kids haven’t been tainted yet. They’ll tell you your breath stinks… and still ask you to play.”

From his viral "group hug" ritual (30 seconds to reset family tensions) to teaching his sons to disarm bullies with compassion, Masada's approach blends ancestral wisdom with the resilience of anime heroes.

Why inclusion is the only path forward

How DNA testing revealed his global roots, a 'fun fact' that helped him sum up his purpose and why 'inclusion, not exclusion' drives his work. 

Connect with Masada Ellis

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masada-ellis-7172a89b/ 

About the Guest: 

Masada Ellis is the secret weapon behind fearless leadership, proving kindness and strength aren’t opposites. With a Master’s in Business Administration and a heart for service, he’s spent years scaling impact instead of ego, from advocating for Head Start programs on Capitol Hill to teaching chess as a tool for respect in San Diego schools.

Fun-facts:

• 🎤 Signed artist & TV songwriter: Penned tracks for Storage Wars while mentoring local musicians.
• ✈️ Adrenaline junkie: Sky dives and rides motorcycles, but says "parenting twins is the real thrill."
• 🏆 Award-winning kindness: He is still proudest of his high school honor for "respect toward all people."

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this powerful episode, Melinda Lee sits down with Tana Jackson, VP of Operations at Upright Labs, to unpack the unspoken challenges women face in corporate leadership. From battling micromanagement and workplace politics to fostering authentic communication under pressure, Tana shares raw insights from her journey and how she’s paving a better way for the next generation of women leaders.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

What "Work Smarter, Not Harder" Really Means

“My passion is problem-solving in chaos—tying loose ends together to create clarity. When you see the success at the end, that’s the ‘wow’ moment.”

• Tana cuts through noise to focus on high-impact priorities (even in back-to-back meetings).

• Her rule for meetings: “No agenda? Don’t invite me.”

The Ugly Truth About Women Not Supporting Women

Tana’s candid take on workplace dynamics:

“I’ve had female leaders rip apart my ideas or take credit for them. It’s detrimental when women don’t lift each other up, especially when we’re asking men to support us.”

• Why toxic managers often know they’re toxic (but ignore it).

• How to recognize when it’s time to walk away from misaligned values.

How to Communicate Like a Leader

“You can’t bulldoze in like a bull in a china cabinet. Explain the why, bring people along, and pass the ‘sniff test’.”

• Early in her career, Tana was told, “Stop asking why, it’s just how we do it.” Now, she insists on transparency.

• How to balance autonomy and guidance.

Effective Communication for Stakeholder Buy-in

Tana’s strategy includes being clear, concise, and understanding your audience to reduce resistance and facilitate stakeholder buy-in.

• Cut the noise: Focus on priorities that align with business goals.

• Align teams with vision: Make it tangible so everyone moves together.

• Support autonomy.

Connect with Tana Jackson

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanajackson2 

About the Guest: 

Tana is the secret weapon behind scaling companies without losing sanity (or sleep). With 18+ years of experience, she’s mastered the art of aligning teams, optimizing GTM strategies, and driving revenue through data. A recognized leader in RevOps and innovation, Tana believes clarity beats control and that the best teams run on trust (not spreadsheets).

Fun-facts:

• 🎨 Secret double life as an artist (20+ years and counting!)
• 🌿 Plant lady goals – her home is basically a garden
• 🐕 Proud dog mom x2 and human mom x2

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What does it take to shift from transactional sales to transformative customer success? In this episode, Melinda Lee chats with Andrea Bumstead, VP of Customer Success, about her journey from marketing and sales to leading long-term customer relationships. Andrea reveals why she chose customer success over sales, and how this helped companies scale from 15M to 50M.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of Long-Term Relationships

Andrea's pivot from sales (transactional) to customer success (relational):

Key difference: Sales is a one-time thing; customer success keeps them coming back.

The 40-Year-Old Epiphany

"At 40, I stopped apologizing for who I wasn’t and started leading with who I am." How authenticity unlocked her confidence.

Scaling Companies

Andrea’s non-negotiable strategy for client retention: "Treat every customer like a 10-year partner, not a one-time transaction."

The Best Investment

Learn why she hired her own executive coach - and how spending $5,000 on self-development led to a $50,000+ salary increase! A clue? Difference in communication style.

Connect with Andrea Bumstead

LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/andreabumstead 

About the Guest: 

Andrea Bumstead is a transformational leader who thrives in the chaos of scaling, turning Customer Success into a growth engine for SaaS companies. With a track record of scaling organizations across FinTech, EdTech, and beyond, she’s a builder at heart, obsessed with momentum (her 70% Rule > perfection) and empowering teams through trust.

Fun-facts:

• 🐄 Grew up on a 100-cattle dairy farm in Ontario.
• 👨👧👦 Mom of 3 (2, 5, and 8) who took all three kids to Asia for a month last year.
• 💘 Met her husband at her first job out of university. 

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Every interaction, from conversations with friends to managing conflicts at work, is a form of negotiation and mediation. But how do we handle these conversations when emotions are running high? In this episode, Melinda Lee sits down with Jonathan Cayton, an experienced mediator, to unpack practical strategies for de-escalating tension, fostering understanding, and leading with empathy, even in the most charged moments.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

De-Escalation Over Combat

When conversations heat up, resist matching energy. Instead, aim to simplify, stay calm, and listen actively.

“That’s Right” vs. “You’re Right”

The goal is not to "win" but to make the other person feel heard. Notice the subtle difference between these phrases; one builds bridges, and the other shuts doors.

Meditation Is Everywhere

From coffee shops to boardrooms, we’re constantly negotiating and mediating. Recognizing these moments helps us navigate them intentionally.

Lead from the Front

Jonathan’s top leadership advice is to "lead from the front." Leaders should be visibly involved and ready to participate actively alongside their team. This hands-on approach builds confidence, courage, and respect among team members.

Memorable Quotes:

“The most powerful question in any conversation is why.” 

“Lead from the front. If you want trust, show up where the work happens.” 

“‘That’s right’ means they feel heard. ‘You’re right’ means they’re done talking.” 

Connect with Jonathan Cayton

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-cayton-47847091/ 

Official website: https://hoaombuds.com/ 

About the Guest: 

Jonathan Cayton is a seasoned mediator, litigator, and former prosecutor with extensive experience resolving high-stakes disputes in a variety of legal areas. His career spans the representation of individuals, businesses, and public entities, both in and out of the courtroom.

Today, he combines practical wisdom with academic insight as an adjunct professor at Chapman University's Dale E. Fowler School of Law, where he coaches students in trial advocacy, appellate advocacy, and mediation competitions.

Fun-facts:

• A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Jon served as an infantry rifleman in Suicide Charley, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines before law school.
• Jonathan loves fishing, shooting sporting clays, and tinkering in his garage.

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

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Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

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Changing your career from one thing to another is no easy task, but it's far from impossible. In fact, you can often take all the knowledge and skills from your past and use them to fuel your next chapter. Don't believe it? Just ask today's guest, Dr. Axel Meierhoefer. A former Air Force officer turned leadership expert, Axel has successfully navigated multiple career transitions, from leading 800 people in the military to founding companies and coaching executives.

In this episode, Axel and Melinda dive into the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from management to strategic leadership. They explore how to shed old habits, embrace new mindsets, and lead with authenticity in an ever-changing world.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Shift from Management to Strategic Leadership

Moving from a management role to a leadership position requires a fundamental shift in mindset. While managers focus on executing directives, leaders must anticipate external changes, develop long-term strategies, and inspire their teams to align around a shared vision. 

Cultural Sensitivity in a Globalized World

In today’s interconnected world, leaders must understand and respect cultural differences. Axel shares examples of how cultural misunderstandings can derail projects and stresses the importance of building trust through culturally sensitive communication.

Authenticity and Emotional Intelligence

Authenticity is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Axel warns against "faking it" and encourages leaders to be genuine, humble, and self-aware. 

The Importance of Asking Questions

Axel encourages you to ask significantly more questions than you provide answers, aiming for an 80:20 ratio. This approach not only encourages team input but also helps leaders make more informed decisions.

Memorable Quotes:

“The higher you go in leadership, the more you need to ask questions and listen. It’s not about having all the answers.” 

“Celebrate the small wins—it recharges the battery for the next goal.” 

“Leadership is all about investing in people.” 

Connect with Axel Meierhoefer

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameierhoefer/ 

Official website: www.idealwealthgrower.com 

About the Guest: 

Dr. Axel Meierhoefer is a German-born former Air Force officer, real estate investor, and leadership expert. After a career in the military and software industry, he turned to real estate during the 2009 recession, building a global portfolio using strategies like 1031 exchanges. Axel founded IdealWealthGrower™ to teach others how to secure their financial future and hosts the Ideal Investor Show, sharing practical investing insights.

Fun-facts:

• Axel loves gardening and nurturing growth.
• He's a former Air Force officer with a knack for leadership.
• Fluent in German “Hallo, Schönen Tag!” 👋

About Melinda:

Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.

She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.

Website: https://speakinflow.com/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflow

Instagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflow

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerall

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcast review.

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.