Speak In Flow

In this episode, host Melinda Lee welcomes Jenn Pedde, VP of Customer Advocacy at PeoplePath, a seasoned expert in building and managing online communities to discuss why online communities matter now more than ever. 

Jenn and Melinda dive into the evolution of online communities, from the early days of forums and message boards to the rise of massive social networks like LinkedIn and Instagram. They explore how the pendulum is swinging back to smaller, niche communities where people can make deeper, more meaningful connections.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Evolution of Online Communities

Why smaller, niche communities are making a comeback in a world dominated by large social networks. These communities offer a sense of belonging and purpose that’s often missing in larger, more impersonal networks.

Building Strong Corporate Networks

Corporate networks are more than just a way to stay in touch with former employees, they’re a strategic asset. Jenn dives into how companies like Microsoft and Starbucks use these networks to save millions in recruitment and training costs by rehiring former employees.

Fun Strategies for Building Connections

Jenn shares fun, practical strategies for building meaningful connections, including managing a remote co-working community of over 1,500 people. She emphasizes the joy of creating engaging activities, such as virtual happy hours and events, that strengthen relationships and build vibrant communities, proving that networking can be fun.

Golden Leadership Tip: People First, Always

Jenn and Melinda discuss how AI may change the way we connect online, but they agree that it will never replace the power of face-to-face communication.  Jenn's ultimate leadership advice revolves around putting people first. She emphasizes that investing in listening to people is what creates an environment of trust and growth.

Memorable Quotes:

“Leadership is all about investing in people. Listening to them, understanding them, and helping them achieve their goals ultimately helps leadership achieve their goals.” – Jenn Pedde

“The more you can build a team and create a sense of excitement and trust, the more you’ll see the results you’re looking for.” – Jenn Pedde

“AI can change the way we communicate, but it can’t replace the power of deep, meaningful connections.” – Melinda Lee

Connect with Jenn Pedde

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

About the Guest: 

Jenn Pedde is the Vice President of Customer Advocacy at PeoplePath, the global leader in corporate alumni management software. She started her career in entertainment, working with artists like Rihanna, Jay-Z, and Eminem. With over 20 years of experience, Jenn has built and managed online communities for brands like Oprah Winfrey and led the Global Alumni Program at Oliver Wyman. She’s also an adjunct professor at Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications.

Fun-facts:

• Jenn lived in Seoul, South Korea, for three years
• She managed San Diego’s largest remote coworking meetup for over four years
• She’s a part-time ceramicist🏺

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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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.

We did it! Our 100th episode. Can you believe it? When we reach a milestone like this, it is a time of joy but also a time to reflect on what we have learned along the way. For host Melinda, there are many wonderful lessons that these 100 episodes and all of her guests have given her, and today, she would like to share them in the form of three transformative strategies that have shaped her growth as a leader and communicator.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of the Pause

Intentional silence is a game changer in communication. Melinda explains how pausing can transform a fast-paced, nervous delivery into a powerful and engaging message. And the technique to make it happen.

How to Convey Authenticity

Everyone talks about authenticity, and most feel they are already authentic, but how do we really communicate it to our audiences? Melinda emphasizes the pitfalls of guarded communication, where leaders hide behind polished scripts or overconfidence, creating a disconnect with their audience.

Strategic Storytelling

Strategic storytelling is about driving emotion and action through intentional narratives. Melinda highlights the importance of crafting stories that inspire, connect, and motivate others. She shares her personal journey of starting the podcast, including the doubts she faced and the joy of achieving recognition.

Memorable Quotes:

“Authentic communication means speaking with openness, vulnerability, and from your true self.”

“It’s okay to be afraid, to be scared, and to lean on others for support. But continue on your journey and remind yourself of the little things that make it matter.”

“Any time you have an opportunity to communicate, you have an opportunity to connect, inspire, and make a big impact in this world.”

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.

Curious about the future of B2B marketing? One spoiler: Communities remain one of its pillars. In this episode, Melinda Lee sits down with Joshua Zerkel, a seasoned community-led growth leader who has helped grow companies like Asana and Evernote, to explore how companies can shift from traditional marketing to creating meaningful, human-centered communities that drive growth. Joshua shares his proven framework for building communities, the transformative impact they can have on businesses, and why listening is the cornerstone of effective leadership.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of Community-Led Growth

Traditional marketing methods like ads and billboards are no longer enough to drive growth. Communities create authentic, long-term relationships between brands and their customers, offering a space for real people to share their experiences and advocate for products or services.

The GROWTH Model for Building Communities

Joshua introduces his GROWTH model, a step-by-step framework for building successful communities.  This model emphasizes the importance of a thoughtful, iterative approach to community building.

Starting Small, Thinking Big

Joshua advises starting with a manageable community program rather than trying to build everything at once. While it’s important to have a vision for the future, the key is to focus on immediate, actionable steps.

Real-World Impact: The Asana Example

Joshua shares a powerful example from his time at Asana, where he transformed a basic forum into a thriving community ecosystem. By listening to customers and internal stakeholders, he created a program that included online forums, Slack channels, ambassador programs, and events. 

Memorable Quotes:

"Community is a force multiplier for traditional marketing efforts. It adds an authentic voice to the mix." 

“Start small, but plan for the future. Build your community piece by piece, and let it grow organically.”

“Leadership is about listening. If you don’t listen, you’re just having a conversation with yourself.”

Connect with Joshua Zerkel

LinkedIn Profile: http://linkedin.com/in/joshuazerkel 

About the Guest: 

Joshua Zerkel is a seasoned community-led growth and engagement leader with over 20 years of experience building thriving communities for startups and global brands like Asana, Evernote, and HeyGen. Known for creating award-winning community programs, Joshua specializes in fostering genuine connections that drive growth and engagement.

Joshua is the author of Evernote @ Work and Integrate: Evernote and has been featured in major publications like The New York Times, Fast Company, and many others.

Fun-facts:

• Joshua once starred in an infomercial.
• He’s a burger enthusiast and keeps lists of the best burgers in every city he visits.
• He only uses one emoji: 🍔

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.

Do you dread the idea of becoming an "empty nester" when your kids leave home? What if this transition could be a time of joy, self-discovery, and reinvention instead? Join Melinda Lee and Hanna Bankier, founder of BirdyLauncher, as they reframe the concept of empty nesting into a powerful opportunity to launch not just your kids, but yourself into a new chapter of life. Hanna shares her unique framework for navigating this transition with grace, ease, and purpose, offering practical tips and heartfelt wisdom for parents ready to embrace their next adventure.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

Reframing Empty Nesting

Words have power, and Hanna knows this very well, so it is crucial to reframe the transitions in our lives in a positive way. That's why Hanna is redefining "empty nester" as "BirdyLauncher," a time to celebrate both your child's independence and your own freedom.

The SOAR Framework:

• Grief: Acknowledging the sense of loss and honoring the emotional journey.

• Relief: Celebrating the things you won’t miss about hands-on parenting.

• Joy: Rediscovering your identity and creating a fulfilling life beyond parenting.

Evolving Your Parenting Role

How to shift from being a hands-on parent to being a mentor, coach, or sounding board for your emerging adult, and why it's critical to start this transition before your kids leave home.

The Importance of Community

Why you don’t have to go through this transition alone and how finding support can help you navigate the emotional and practical challenges of this phase.

Memorable Quotes:

"How is the nest empty when you're still in it?" 

“The world is your oyster, just like it is for your kids. Don’t shrink; show them how to soar.”

“We need to close one chapter before we can fully open the next. Grief, relief, and joy are all part of the journey.”

Connect with Hanna Bankier

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanna-bankier/ 

Website: www.birdylauncher.com 

About the Guest: 

Hanna Bankier is a former television executive turned coach, speaker, and founder of BirdyLauncher, a platform that helps moms navigate the transition of their children leaving home. With a background in organizational psychology and a certification from the International Coaching Federation, Hanna focuses on empowering moms to rediscover themselves and thrive beyond parenting.

Fun-facts:

• A bilingual Swedish expat who blends punctuality with California chill.
• She loves hiking, dancing, and hosting gatherings.
• Hanna believes the best years of life are still ahead.

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.

Do you have a great idea that just won't take off and you don't know why? Before you change any aspect of your product, ask yourself: Is the problem my idea, or how am I selling it? Join Melinda and Win Cramer, CEO and founder of JLab, as they discuss the critical role of communication in entrepreneurship. Win shares his journey from running all aspects of the business solo to building a high-performing team, the challenges he faced in messaging, and how refining communication transformed JLab’s success.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of a Clear Message

Win shares a pivotal moment when a failed pitch to Target led to refining JLab’s messaging, ultimately securing a major retail partnership.

Scaling Communication in a Growing Company

How Win makes sure everyone on his growing team and across his brand is on the same page, all while adapting to the fast growth of a company that's expanding.

Creating Delightful Customer Experiences

Happy customers are the key to success, but first they need to buy your product. Win explains that when you focus on selling the experience that customers want, that's where the conversions happen.

The Importance of Tailored Communication

Win says it's really important to tailor your messages to your audience, whether you're pitching to investors or connecting with customers. The same product can have a totally different value for different people.

Memorable Quotes:

"We like to make our products easy enough for my mom to use, but cool enough for my daughter to want." 

“Communication is key, whether it's speaking to a buyer, an investor, or your team. Knowing your audience changes everything.”

“Once I learned the language of retail, the doors opened. The same product, the same packaging, just a refined message made all the difference.”

Connect with Win Cramer

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

About the Guest: 

Win Cramer is the CEO of JLab, a top audio and accessories brand that's growing fast. It's also one of the top five headphone brands worldwide. Since he's been at the helm, JLab has become known for making top-notch personal tech products for a great price. His team is passionate about innovation, marketing, and customer experience, and they make sure that every product they create exceeds expectations.

Fun-facts:

• Win enjoys "camping" exclusively at five-star resorts. After all, roughing it should come with room service.
• He believes that success comes from surrounding yourself with smart, dedicated people and lives by the mantra: Always hire up.

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.

AI sparks a lot of controversy, but for those willing to explore its potential, it's a game-changer for communication. In Episode 95 of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee breaks down how artificial intelligence tools like Chatgpt and Jasper can streamline your preparation, enhance your content creation, and improve your delivery to authentically connect with any audience.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

How to Craft Compelling Content

Learn how ChatGPT and Jasper can enhance your content by refining outlines, generating visuals, and even preparing for tough audience questions.

Breaking the AI Barrier

Understand how working with a coach can help you navigate mindset blocks and embrace AI as a powerful ally in your communication toolkit.

Preparation Simplified

Discover how AI tools like SparkToro and ChatGPT save time on research and help uncover crucial audience insights, including emotional triggers that inspire action.

Mastering Delivery

Hone your presentation skills with AI for instant feedback on tone, clarity, and conciseness as you experiment with different types of audiences.

Memorable Quotes:

"AI is here to stay. Why not use it to enhance your ability to connect and inspire?" 

“Emotional triggers transform a good presentation into one that drives action.”

“Never practice on your stakeholders; let AI and a coach help you perfect your delivery first.”

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 Episode 94 of the Speak In Flow podcast with Product Marketing Executive, David Haboud, we take a look at the world of communication in high-tech environments. Melinda and David focused on the importance of creating things that last, and how clear and concise communication… with a little improv, is the necessary delivery to make those ideas a reality. 

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of Iteration

David emphasizes the importance of adopting an iterative approach, inspired by agile methodologies. Learn how to apply these principles to create processes that last.

Communicating in High-Tech Environments

Discover how to use word economics and organization to make technical concepts accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.

Lessons from Improv

 David’s background in improv has influenced his leadership style, helping him embrace failure and foster creativity.

Webinars as a Tool for Innovation

Learn how to use innovative webinars to simplify technical conversations and engage your audience in your projects. 

Memorable Quotes:

"A picture’s worth a thousand words. Let’s create experiences that are interactive and impactful." 

“Failure is not the end; it’s an opportunity to learn and iterate.”

“As a leader, your job is to understand what’s in your team’s way and get it out of the way.”

Connect with David Haboud

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-haboud/ 

About the Guest: 

David Haboud is a Product Marketing Executive who specializes in bridging the gap between software and hardware design through clear, impactful messaging and customer-driven solutions. With a keen focus on webinars, videos, product roadmaps, and global training initiatives, David transforms complex ideas into accessible narratives that resonate across diverse audiences. His expertise lies in fostering collaboration among teams and ensuring that technical innovations are both effective and sustainable.

Fun-facts:

• David hosts and performs improv and stand-up comedy in San Diego, combining technical precision with creative storytelling.
• He’s passionate about creating educational experiences, such as webinars, that empower professionals to adopt sustainable practices.
• A fan of outdoor brainstorming sessions, David often draws inspiration from walking meetings, merging creativity with productivity.

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 episode 93 of the Speak In Flow podcast, Melinda interviews Dr. Barry Sandrew, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist who has transitioned into a successful entrepreneur and AI innovator in Hollywood. Dr. Sandrew shares his remarkable journey from the field of neuroscience to revolutionizing the entertainment industry through his pioneering work in colorizing black-and-white films and advancing visual effects (VFX) technology.

Dr. Sandrew is a masterclass on pivoting one's career and adopting an entrepreneurial mindset. In this episode, he shares his view on the importance of learning from failures and effectively communicating, as well as how the transformative role of AI in both education and business plays a part in topics that are highly relevant to leadership and growth across all industries today.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Power of Failing Forward

Discover why failure is a crucial learning tool in innovation and leadership. Dr. Sandrew emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where mistakes drive progress, quoting John Maxwell: "Fail early, fail often, but always fail forward."

Building a Community Around Your Vision

Great leadership in startups involves rallying a diverse group of people around a shared vision. Dr. Sandrew discusses how he transformed high school students into top executives by fostering a risk-taking, experimental culture.

Communicating the Why

Learn how impactful communication can make or break your startup. Dr. Sandrew shares lessons on shifting from technical jargon to conveying the “why” behind products and ideas, a strategy inspired by The Lean Startup.

AI’s Role in Education and Business

Explore Dr. Sandrew’s latest AI patents aimed at authenticating student learning and transforming education. He highlights how AI is leveling the playing field across industries, including filmmaking and corporate training.

Memorable Quotes:

"The key to leadership in startups is building a critical mass of believers who share your vision and embrace uncertainty" 

“AI is not something to fear; it’s a tool to make our lives and businesses better. Embrace it or risk being left behind.”

“The best teams are built on trust and a shared commitment to something bigger than any individual.”

Connect with Dr. Barry Sandrew

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

About the Guest: 

Dr. Barry Sandrew is a neuroscientist turned internationally recognized serial entrepreneur, digital imaging expert, and VFX pioneer. With over 37 patents and decades of experience, he has worked on some of Hollywood’s biggest productions, including The Aviator, Alice in Wonderland, and Transformers. Dr. Sandrew's groundbreaking work includes inventing digital colorization in 1987 and revolutionizing 2D to 3D film conversion in the 2000s. 

As the Managing Director of the Innovation Hub at Westcliff University, he continues to foster entrepreneurship, helping startups achieve an 80% success rate through his consulting expertise. Currently, he’s focused on applying artificial intelligence to transform education, with his latest patent, The Socratic Metric, poised to change the future of learning.

Fun-facts:

• As a pioneering force in Hollywood, he was responsible for colorizing over 250 films and TV episodes, including The Diner and We’re Back: A Dinosaur Story.
• A frequent lecturer on innovation, he created the IGNITE incubator at Westcliff University to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.
• He enjoys mentoring young minds in tech and helping them turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

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 episode 92 of the Speak In Flow podcast, Melinda takes us on a journey to help us manage and understand one of the most common and overwhelming emotions: stress. A much-needed guide after the holidays, when we have to return to work and stress, is at its peak. A topic inspired by Melinda's own vulnerable story of how her father's recent stroke highlighted the importance of understanding and compassionately addressing stress cues. 

Drawing from her background in industrial-organizational psychology, Melinda explores the root causes of stress through the lens of the four energy types: blue, yellow, red, and green. She explains the unique stress triggers for each energy type, offering actionable stress-busting strategies and emphasizing how to create meaningful connections to reduce tension for yourself and those around you.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

How to Recognize Stress Triggers

Learn what types of situations trigger stress based on your energy, whether it's a loss of competence, control, connection, or choice.

Stress-Busting Techniques

Melinda shares practical advice on how to compartmentalize tasks, prioritize what's important, and give thoughtful feedback. All keys to reducing stress.

Psychological Energy Types

Drawing on industrial-organizational psychology and Jungian theory, Melinda explains four types of psychological energy and what triggers them to cause stress.

How to Spot Stress Signals

Tips for identifying stress in yourself and others through behavioral clues like impatience, withdrawal, or over-responsiveness.

Memorable Quotes:

"Stress is what happens when our psychological needs are unmet." 

“Stress is a normal part of stretching ourselves, but when there's too much of it, it can be overwhelming and unproductive.”

“By understanding others' needs and energies, we can better support them and reduce stress for everyone involved.”

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

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In episode 91 of the Speak In Flow podcast, Devin Fong, an experienced leader in data analytics, shares some great insights on how to effectively communicate complex data by using storytelling, particularly in the finance and engineering sectors. In his conversation with Melinda, they explore the art of storytelling with data as a way to avoid usual miscommunication due to technical gaps, build confidence in team members, and create a safe space for people to thrive and contribute. 

Devin joins Melinda in a reflection on the importance of making sure your data points are aligned with your business goals, and how leaders can give their teams the tools they need to take ownership of their roles and decisions.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The ROI of Leadership

Effective leadership is measured not only by business results but also by the trust and confidence it builds within the team, freeing up time for higher-level tasks and fostering ownership.

How to Focus on the Why

Senior leaders care less about the details and more about the implications of the data on business outcomes. Shift from explaining the model to telling the story of how it impacts the organization.

Storytelling with Data

To avoid getting bogged down in technicalities, present data through a clear, confident narrative that connects the numbers to the organization's goals.

Efficiency Through Trust

Creating an environment where employees feel trusted to make decisions based on clear guidelines leads to more efficient operations and reduces micromanagement.

Memorable Quotes:

"The ROI is in the lift it gives the entire organization. When people feel trusted, they take ownership, and it frees up time for others." - Devin Fong

“If the numbers say you're wrong, you're wrong, it's the ultimate validator.” - Devin Fong

“The power of storytelling with your data is essential for elevating the entire organization.” - Melinda Lee

Connect with Devin Fong

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

About the Guest: 

Devin Fong is a strategic finance leader and consultant with over a decade of experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets, scaling operations, and mentoring high-performing teams. Devin fosters psychologically safe environments and promotes work-life balance, transparent communication, and collaboration. Currently pursuing the FPAC certification, Devin is committed to helping organizations achieve sustainable success through alignment with their core values while consulting on FP&A projects.

Fun-facts:

• Strength in mind and body. Devin has competed in two powerlifting competitions and even won silver! 
• Devin is just like the rest of us – he needs his daily cup of coffee to function properly.
• Devin has a whiskey collection of 220 bottles, featuring spirits from around the world.

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.