Speaking and Communicating Podcast

How can leaders attract great talent and maximize on the talent they already have?

Meet Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer!

Dr. Cynthia is a Human Capital Potentialist who works at the intersection of organizational strategy and soul purpose. She is a globally recognized human capital strategist, USA Today bestselling author, and board-certified executive coach with more than 30 years of experience transforming how organizations invest in their people.

As the founder and CEO of Bentzen Performance Partners, co-founder of The Zeal of the Heel, and creator of the 7 Minute Pivot, she partners with executives and leadership teams across public, private, nonprofit, and multi-industry sectors to align talent strategy with business growth.

On this episode, Dr. Cynthia explains her research findings on the ROI when investing in talent.

Listen as Dr. Cynthia shares:
- how to align talent strategy with business growth
- what leads to cultural transformations
- transforming people into a company’s biggest competitive advantage
- business outcomes vs human-centered leadership
- how CEOs can unlock untapped value
- the returns on intentional investments in talent
- how to navigate career restlessness or stagnation
- the leadership dilemma of empathy vs accountability

...and so much more!

Connect with Dr. Cynthia:
Website: https://www.bentzenperformancepartners.com

Additional Resources:
"Now, Near, Next" by Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer on Amazon
"Human Capital Investment Strategy" by Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-leaders-can-attract-and-retain-the-best-talent-w/id1614151066?i=1000741811750
Spotify:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/48x9GnXrIGOfcZ8PdbbDvw?si=PXyiyAsMRJiL6j9VeysiCQ
YouTube: https://youtu.be/w9WFLhFzJd8

How does extended screen time impact our eye health in the long run?

Meet Dr. Roger Wu!

Dr. Wu is an Optometrist on a mission to protect and preserve our most precious sense: vision. 

As the world around us becomes increasingly digital—whether it’s scrolling through social media, powering through work on a computer, or binge-watching our favorite shows - Dr. Wu noticed that more and more patients are complaining of dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches, all linked to prolonged screen exposure.

On this episode, Dr. Wu shares his scientific research and what we can do to curb this damage to our eyesight. His solution has already proven to have desired results for his current patients.

Listen as Dr. Wu shares:
- the effects of darkness on our eyes
- why move the screen further away
- neck and shoulder pain associated with screen time
- the impact on the retina due to longer focus on screens
- how Omega-3 fatty acids keep our eyes healthy
- daily strategies to protect your vision
- how to combat eye problems caused by digital screens
- supporting your eye health daily

...and so much more!

Connect with Dr. Wu:
Website: https://theeyedrink.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-roger-wu-321a3710/

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-protect-your-eyes-from-screens-w-dr-roger-wu/id1614151066?i=1000741340619
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pDP1ZtbgG2FTzTg34idMI?si=my9TxEHOTu-xrrxT7GZ47Q
YouTube: https://youtu.be/_pFpb3ntjGU

Is it possible to overcome insurmountable challenges?

Meet Dante Wright, Esq.

Dante is an experienced Attorney, Criminal Defense & Personal Injury Lawyer.

He is the co-founder of The Phoenix Trial Firm, where he is recognized as one of Hampton Roads’ most relentless trial attorneys. He has built his reputation by representing clients in high-stakes criminal, traffic, and personal injury matters, blending courtroom skill with a relentless drive to win.

Dante did not grow up with a silver spoon in his mouth - quite the contrary! On this episode, he shares his powerful story of how he overcame, those who immensely influenced him and how we can all be mentors to the young generation.

Listen as Dante shares:
- how a judge saved his life
- why his mission is to fight for others
- recognising potential in others
- is the Justice System just?
- how to rise from life's most difficult challenges
- reclaiming your future when all seems hopeless
- using your imagination when physical evidence is not inspiring
- how we all can mentor the next generation

...and so much more!

Connect with Dante:
Website: https://poindexterwright.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dante-wright-b1161612b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dantewrightesq/?hl=en

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-overcome-challenges-and-find-success-w-dante-wright/id1614151066?i=1000740670593
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4dDpkhLrHKhUa8FMT923Yk?si=bcne4B0xSF6dpd4aeSekNg
YouTube: https://youtu.be/9xYiYYPV6Qo

How do we raise the next generation of leaders?

Meet Olaolu Ogunyemi!

Olaolu is an Award-winning children's book Author and Leadership Mentor.

He aims to inspire the next generation of leaders through his work with children and communities.

On this episode, he highlights his approach to engaging children through storytelling, and the importance of community involvement in child-rearing.

Listen as Olaolu shares:
- cultural differences in family support systems
- impact of social media on children
- building strong familial and community connections
- why read to children, the earlier the better
- how serving the community helps children's sense of self-worth
- what community members can do to help raise children
- how everyone can be a mentor to children
- village vs individualistic parenting styles

...and so much more!

Connect with Olaolu:
Website: https://www.parent-child-connect.com

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-build-future-leaders-parenting-advice-w-olaolu/id1614151066?i=1000740185879
Spotify:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/1uVLLk8SqHUOrZ09CIbi7e?si=uDgf13WuTWqd-ABSZZtFxQ
YouTube: https://youtu.be/taOaVwbzThA

What has research proven regarding meditation?

Meet Brittany Hopkins Switlick!

Brittany is an Author, Speaker, seasoned Yoga educator and Personal Development Coach. She is the founder of Lotus School of Yoga (formerly Container Collective Yoga), where she has led hundreds of students and aspiring teachers in transformative classes, workshops, trainings and retreats that go far beyond the physical practice of yoga.

Through thousands of hours of teaching students to navigate the dance between ego and higher self, she empowers them to live with purpose and authenticity. Brittany helps people break free from default patterns to live and lead with purpose.

Listen as Brittany shares:
- how meditation alters brain chemistry
- deepening practice, self-awareness, and impact
- recognize ego-driven reactivity
- shift into conscious, empowered action
- lead with clarity, authenticity, and compassion
- reconnect with who they truly are
- gratitude and its impact on your brain
- lead from your Higher Self
- re-language judgement and how you see others

...and so much more!

Connect with Brittany,
Website: https://www.brittanyhopkins.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtYalwiEsVzY3sC1pWSMxQ

Additional Resources:
"Dancing With Our Selves" by Brittany Hopkins Switlick

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-meditation-changes-the-brain-w-brittany-hopkins/id1614151066?i=1000739800559
Spotify:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/3C2zx1ZXXeejBWqvSr2pBc?si=x3sSyVa_RBaYN8OuAOHDxA
YouTube: https://youtu.be/KB1_KOhFVdE

What are leaders getting wrong?

What misconceptions do we have about leadership?

Meet Julia Rock!

Julia is a Keynote Speaker, Executive Coach, Burnout & Leadership Strategist. Her mission is to uncomplicated leadership in the workplace.

Julia knows that leadership isn’t complicated, but it is hard. And when leaders get it wrong, companies pay the price—lost talent, low engagement, and millions wasted in turnover and productivity drain.

She knows this firsthand, with nearly 20 years not only coaching other professionals and executives, but also building her own leadership career between the finance and energy sectors.

Listen as Julia shares:
- why leadership is hard
- how leaders create burnout
- lack of communication and team morale
- championing your career progression
- why leaders struggle to delegate
- empowering your team vs task giving
- band-aids disguised as solutions in the organization

...and so much more!

Connect with Julia:
Website: https://www.thejuliarock.com/

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-leaders-need-to-stop-doing-w-julia-rock/id1614151066?i=1000739279184
Spotify:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/0s0bPF2tsJ5vv0I2hr8m52?si=ke5UK3eVSvKAJgmz0tkMnA
YouTube: https://youtu.be/WmR_BIJhhKE?si=zLhoDgAyR1K8bTUQ

What makes a job ethical? Who truly holds power in the workplace? And why does it matter now more than ever?

Meet Dr. Travis Schatchner!

Dr. Travis Schachtner's views on leadership and employment ethics are shaped by decades of hard work and personal experience. Growing up on a family farm in rural Wisconsin, he learned that all work has a basic value that should be respected.

In his book, Employment Ethics: Redefining the Employer-Employee Relationship, Dr. Schatchner forms the foundation for a fresh perspective on modern work. 

For too long, ethical responsibility has been unfairly placed on workers, while employers-driven by profit and protected by power-often avoid accountability. This book challenges that imbalance by redefining employment as a transactional relationship, not a personal favor or moral crusade.

Currently, he teaches Electromechanical Systems at Saint Paul College. When asked why he chooses to teach that instead of leadership or management he explains, “We have enough managers and wannabe leaders in the world; we need more people who can actually fix things.” 

Listen as Travis shares:

• The four core pillars of work ethic-and how they're often exploited
• Why employers are not inherently leaders-and shouldn't be treated as such
• The hidden cost of toxic and imbalanced workplace dynamics
• What employer ethics are-their history and why they matter
• Practical tools for evaluating your current employment relationship

...and so much more!

Connect with Dr. Schatchner:
Website: https://www.ftsleaders.com

Additional Resources:
"Employment Ethics" by Dr. Travis Schatchner on Amazon

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-future-of-leadership-employment-ethics-w/id1614151066?i=1000738706400
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/74Qd4EQu9DhlzgptpAR3x7?si=8uGbSb4kSgCNm2bWxOdkvQ
https://open.spotify.com/episode/74Qd4EQu9DhlzgptpAR3x7
YouTube: https://youtu.be/cb_6_miXxKQ

Why is there such an emphasis on empathy?

Does it truly benefit leaders, teams and organisations?

Meet Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller!

Dr. Melissa is an Author of international bestseller The Empathic Leader, TEDx Speaker and Trained Relationship Builder. She helps leaders maximize personal & business potential through the effective leverage of EQ and empathy.

By educating leaders about the power of empathy, Dr. Melissa hopes to create a ripple effect that results in a fairer, happier, healthier world for all.

Listen as Dr. Melissa shares:
- how empathy impacts organizational performance, and workplace dynamics
- addressing toxic work situations
- cognitive empathy as a valuable skill for leaders
- the results when leaders display empathy
- how organizational culture is influenced by leaders' actions
- being resistant to change and its repercussions
- why empathy is a distinct skill rather than part of soft skills
- how AI, despite its capabilities, lacks empathy and soft skills
- why true empathy cannot coexist with judgment

...and so much more!

Connect with Dr. Melissa:
Website: https://eqviaempathy.com

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-is-empathy-important-w-dr-melissa-robinson-winemiller/id1614151066?i=1000738104540
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0yU4uMoALSbK4AA4iuAnor?si=u-omqz4DSxe97M-ih3PtJA
YouTube: https://youtu.be/5xCiR0XrAVA

Are you focused on behaviour rather than communication and collaboration?

Meet Katherine Sellery!

Katherine is the CEO and Founder of Conscious Parenting Revolution who helps individuals minimize misunderstandings and melt-downs in order to communicate with more collaboration, cooperation, and consideration.

A creator of the Guidance Approach to Parenting, a program that applies conflict resolution skills to communicating more effectively with children, Katherine has positively influenced relationships for generations and brought about healing and reconciliation in families that were suffering from disconnection. 

For over 20 years, she has taught and coached thousands of parents, educators, social workers, and medical professionals in half a dozen countries through her popular workshops, coaching programs, TEDx talks, 250 page comprehensive training manual, and Ebook. 

Listen as Katherine shares:
- why behaviour modification does not work
- how to truly show concern for your child
- communication strategies to create trust with your children
- how to become an effective parents
- why manipulation tactics are short-lived
- Resentment Flow and the repercussions thereof
- why compliance is not the key to effective parenting
- how to transform your parenting style
- the pitfalls associated with power and control

...and so much more!

Connect with Katherine:
Website: https://www.katherinesellery.com

Additional Resources:
"7 Strategies to Keeping Your Relationship With Your Kids From Hitting The Boiling Point" by Katherine Sellery on Amazon

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-raise-emotionally-intelligent-children-a/id1614151066?i=1000737476556
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/563FSIux7sX8yJY6nQgbPd?si=Ddlt_vpyTHCq8Gq6LUFR4Q
YouTube: https://youtu.be/P_M8U9emc0k

Do you struggle to set healthy boundaries at home and at work?

How burnt out are you from a lack of boundaries?

Meet Dana Skaggs!

With Dana, boundaries aren’t barriers—they’re the secret to thriving teams and lasting results.

Dana is the "Queen of Boundaries", Keynote Speaker, Podcaster and Psychotherapist. She helps people become empowered by what they can control, experience freedom from what they cannot, and expertly navigate the divide.

After 17 years in private practice, Dana possesses a well-rounded understanding of the intricate and insidious nature of dysfunctional boundaries.

Listen as Dana shares:
- personal experiences have further shaped my expertise
- how to create space for what truly matters
- practical strategies on how to set healthy boundaries
- finding a new sense of safety and inner strength
- breaking free from the constraints of others' dysfunction
- how to prioritize your own well-being
- being in control of your own mental boardroom
- how to have clarity on what you have control over

...and so much more!

On her "Phoenix and Flame Podcast," Dana explores the theme of "From Ash to Flight on the Wings of Boundaries." Additionally, she offers online boundaries courses, tailored for those seeking education and training in boundary issues when traditional therapy may not be feasible.

Connect with Dana:
Website: www.danaskaggs.com

Additional Resources:
"The Phoenix and Flame Podcast" hosted by Dana Skaggs

Listen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-set-boundaries-stop-people-pleasing-w-dana-skaggs/id1614151066?i=1000737049339
Spotify:   https://open.spotify.com/episode/16xZ8EKMGdyXqJeSWfl8PI?si=P03CV34-SL-s2Ic2IiBVWQ
YouTube: https://youtu.be/JPsJKc4KfYM