In this episode of Success is an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue welcomes James Roberson, founder and president of FredXteriors and the 516 Project, a Christian-based construction and disaster relief ministry serving communities across the United States. With more than 25 years of experience in construction, entrepreneurship, disaster relief, and executive leadership, James has built a career centered on service, craftsmanship, and helping others rebuild their lives. Through the 516 Project, he has led thousands of volunteers in home repairs and responding to floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes, while FredXteriors continues to serve homeowners with a mission of giving back through initiatives like the Roofing Revival Program.

James shares his journey from growing up in a family business to leading organizations driven by purpose and faith. He opens up about overcoming self-doubt, balancing heart with business decisions, navigating difficult leadership moments, and embracing career pivots. Together, Janel and James explore the importance of finishing what you start, knowing yourself as a leader, and building a legacy through integrity, resilience, and service.

Timestamps

Introduction to James Roberson (00:00:50) The host introduces guest James Roberson, founder of FredXteriors and the 516 Project, and a Leadership Fredericksburg graduate.

The Pinnacle of Success: 516 Project (00:02:11) James identifies the 516 Project, a nonprofit construction ministry, as the accomplishment he is most proud of.

The Spark That Started 516 Project (00:03:15) James shares how a simple suggestion in a Sunday school class unexpectedly snowballed into the creation of the nonprofit.

God's Plan and Early Support (00:05:25) James describes the "God-ordained" moments of early support, including free legal help and a perfectly timed donation for filing fees.

What 516 Project is Today (00:07:27) An overview of the nonprofit's current work, including home repairs, handicap accessibility, a feeding ministry, and disaster response.

The Inner Voice of Doubt (00:12:18) James discusses his internal struggle with self-doubt and feeling unprepared, despite appearing confident on the outside.

The Burden of Leadership in Nonprofits (00:15:27) James talks about the weight of responsibility, the difficulty of saying no, and caring for his staff and their families.

Stepping Back and Empowering Others (00:18:33) James reflects on the initial doubts and ultimate success of handing over daily operations to another leader in the organization.

Growing Up in a Family Business (00:20:38) James shares his experience growing up in his parents' music store, which taught him a strong work ethic.

Journey into the Construction Industry (00:22:45) How James fell in love with construction, quickly moved into leadership roles, and started his first handyman company.

The Leap of Faith to Quit His Job (00:26:18) James recounts the moment he realized he was meant to run 516 Project full-time and quit the family business.

Thriving on Chaos (00:28:17) James explains why he is not designed to work for others and thrives on the stress and chaos of entrepreneurship.

A Defining Life Moment (00:32:30) James shares how his grandfather's passing was a pivotal moment that motivated him to make positive changes in his life.

The Hardest Part of Leadership (00:35:37) James discusses the difficulty of firing people and how he learned to handle it with care and support.

Describing His Leadership Style (00:39:01) James describes himself as a "driver" who is laser-focused but has learned to be more self-aware and approachable.

Getting to Know Your Team (00:42:23) James shares his method for understanding his team's motivations, preferences, and how they best receive praise and criticism.

Leadership Book Recommendation (00:44:42) James recommends "EntreLeadership" by Dave Ramsey and advises leaders to read books with viewpoints they don't agree with.

The Power of Honest Feedback (00:50:00) James reflects on two crucial conversations that shaped his business perspective and the success of the 516 Project.

Advice to His 18-Year-Old Self (00:53:39) James would tell his younger self to slow down, enjoy life more, and not rush through things.

It's Okay to Pivot (00:56:14) James discusses overcoming the mindset that a career path is forever and learning that it's okay to make changes.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

James, 'It was very much a plan that I just didn't realize I was a part of.'

James, 'There's constantly that dialogue in my head of, "Yeah, you can't do this. You're not good enough."'

James, 'The biggest thing that does weigh on you as a leader or a founder in a nonprofit is you can't help everyone.'

James, 'Twenty years ago, I was not a good person to work for. But now I feel like I'm a pretty good person to work for because I've learned.'

James, 'You need somebody in your corner who will be bluntly honest with you, even if it hurts a little bit.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With James: Learn more at www.516project.org and www.FredXteriors.com Social: @the516project | @jamesbuildshope | @FredXteriors Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Website: www.jdonohueleadership.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Purpose grows when you keep saying yes to the work that matters—even when you don't feel ready."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success is an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue welcomes Lori Perez, broker-owner of Lori Perez Real Estate and a trusted advocate who is passionate about helping people navigate life's biggest transitions. After reinventing herself more than once, Lori has built a business rooted in relationships, resilience, and serving others. She shares her remarkable journey from stay-at-home mom and daycare cleaner to a top real estate professional with nine certifications. Lori also opens up about navigating life after her husband's incarceration, learning to lead herself, and embracing the concept of "permission to pivot." Together, they explore how Patrick Lencioni's Six Types of Working Genius helped Lori understand her strengths, and why integrity, faith, and self-acceptance are at the heart of her leadership philosophy.

Timestamps

Introducing Lori Perez (00:00:53) Host Janel Donohue welcomes guest Lori Perez, a broker-owner in real estate, highlighting her professional achievements and community involvement.

Lori's Professional and Personal Journey (00:02:44) Lori shares her background, transitioning from a stay-at-home mom and cleaning daycares to becoming a highly certified real estate broker.

Permission to Pivot (00:04:34) The discussion turns to making life changes, learning to make decisions, and giving oneself permission to pivot after major life challenges.

Overcoming Feeling Stuck (00:07:41) Lori explains how she moved from cleaning childcare centers to real estate by focusing on what she could control.

Finding Your Calling in Real Estate (00:10:06) Lori discusses finding her passion in real estate and the joy she gets from helping clients find their dream homes.

Pivoting Again: Leaving a Franchise (00:11:51) Lori talks about the difficult decision to sell her real estate franchise and the fear of being perceived as a failure.

Redefining "Following Through" (00:16:15) Lori explains how she redefined following through by making a financially sound decision to leave the franchise and find joy again.

The Six Types of Working Genius (00:18:14) The host introduces the "Six Types of Working Genius" model and how it helps identify work that brings joy and energy.

Applying Working Genius to Business Decisions (00:20:22) Lori reveals her working geniuses are "Wonder" and "Enablement," which helped her realize why the franchise model was draining her.

Finding Joy Within the Pain (00:25:07) Lori describes how she found joy and pride in navigating the difficult process of closing her office and fulfilling her lease.

The Power of Choice (00:36:04) The conversation covers the importance of making conscious choices daily, from personal habits to career decisions, to avoid feeling stuck.

What is a Leader? (00:38:53) Lori shares that she doesn't see herself as a leader, viewing it as a positional title rather than inspirational influence.

Lori's Life Mantra (00:42:46) Lori shares her personal mantra, "Yes, I can," and the importance of having accountability and encouragement partners for support.

Advice to Her Younger Self (00:45:38) Lori would tell her younger self to believe in herself and understand that she is enough for her current journey.

Learning to Trust Professionals (00:49:47) Lori shares a lesson from her husband about trusting the professionals you hire and accepting the outcome of their work.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:51:41) The host thanks Lori for sharing her story of overcoming challenges, pivoting with courage, and showing the reality beneath success.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

Lori, 'I had no idea who I was. When I went into real estate, I had to learn to sell me, and I was the person I knew the least about and liked the least.'

Lori, 'I remember a moment in time where I was truly prostrate on the floor, my face on the floor bawling, and it was like God picking me up by the back of the shirt and saying, "What can you control about this situation right now?"'

Lori, 'It was between the question of "Who's everybody?" and "You're not good at this, and that's okay." It allowed me to give myself the freedom to say it's time to pivot.'

Lori, 'I am not enough right now to be the person I'm intended to be five years down the road, but I am enough to be the person I am intended to be right now.'

Lori, 'You have to learn to like you, to love you, and to be your own best friend. If nobody else in the world came alongside you, would you be okay with your company?'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Lori:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLoriPerez

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theloriperez/

Website: www.loriperezrealestate.com

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Website: www.jdonohueleadership.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"The courage to pivot begins the moment you give yourself permission to choose what aligns with who you're becoming."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success as an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue explores the Six Types of Working Genius—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity. She explains how each person has two geniuses, two competencies, and two frustrations that shape their work experience. Janel highlights how understanding this model helps teams collaborate more effectively, reduce conflict, and boost productivity. She also introduces the concept of "altitude" in meetings, emphasizing the importance of staying aligned with the current phase of work to maintain team flow and efficiency.

Timestamps

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:53) Addressing common team frustrations and introducing the Six Types of Working Genius model as a solution for businesses.

Why Working Genius is Beneficial (00:02:10) Explaining how the model maximizes joy, increases productivity, builds effective teams, improves meetings, hiring, and boosts morale.

Recap of the WIDGET Model (00:02:51) A quick review of the six types (Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, Tenacity) and the 2-2-2 distribution.

Team Benefits of Working Genius (00:03:56) Discussing how the model helps staff projects, creates a common language, reduces guilt, and improves productivity and morale.

Creating Productive Meetings (00:05:18) How understanding geniuses can improve various meeting types, from brainstorming sessions to tactical stand-ups, making them more effective.

The Altitude of Genius (00:06:25) Explaining the concept of different "altitudes" for each genius type, from Wonder at 30,000 feet to Tenacity at ground level.

Consequences of Team Gaps (00:10:26) Detailing the problems teams face when they lack one of the six genius types, such as inability to innovate.

Five Signs of Success (00:12:23) Listing the indicators that a team is successfully using the model, including integrating the vocabulary and tapping into geniuses.

Invitation to Collaborate (00:14:25) A call to action for listeners to work with the host to implement the Working Genius model in their teams.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'Leadership isn't a title or a degree; it's ownership of who you are and how you show up.'

'When we know our geniuses and frustrations, we understand ourselves and why some work gives us joy and other work gives us a lot of frustration.'

"It's not things that you're really good at or you're very smart about; it's work that gives you joy and energy."

'What I love most about this, and what helped me and my teams the most, is it creates common language for the team.'

'I've worked with wonderful teams, and every single one was able to use the six types of working genius to find success.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Website: www.jdonohueleadership.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"The work that energizes you isn't just what you're good at—it's often where your genius lives."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success is an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue welcomes a speaker who introduces the Platinum Rule as a powerful leadership tool. Moving beyond the Golden Rule's "treat others as you'd like to be treated," the Platinum Rule urges leaders to treat people the way they want to be treated. Through personal stories and practical examples, the speaker highlights active listening and personalization as key strategies, including team preference exercises and onboarding forms. The episode challenges listeners to reflect on their leadership style and adopt a more empathetic, individualized approach to communication and relationships.

Timestamps

Podcast Introduction (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's theme: exploring the unseen hard work and perseverance that lie beneath the surface of success.

Introducing the Platinum Rule (00:00:53) The speaker introduces the Platinum Rule as a key leadership tool, contrasting it with the more commonly known Golden Rule.

The Golden Rule in Practice (00:01:09) The speaker explains the Golden Rule—treat others as you want to be treated—and gives examples of its potential shortcomings.

Defining the Platinum Rule (00:02:18) The Platinum Rule is defined as treating others the way they want to be treated, emphasizing empathy and adaptability over assumptions.

Platinum Preference Pairs (00:03:22) A fun exercise is presented with contrasting workplace preferences to highlight how differently people like to work and communicate.

The Benefits of the Platinum Rule (00:04:28) The speaker explains how using the Platinum Rule saves time, reduces emotional disruptions, and improves efficiency in personal and professional life.

Key Aspects: Active Listening & Personalization (00:05:41) The two core components of the Platinum Rule are introduced: active listening to observe preferences and personalizing your approach accordingly.

A Personal Example of the Platinum Rule (00:06:58) The speaker shares a personal story about adapting their communication style to a colleague who needed time to process information.

Practicing Personalization (00:09:00) This section details how to tailor your approach to fit each person's unique needs, using a "When working with me" form.

"My Favorite Things" Exercise (00:11:08) A fun team exercise is shared to learn about personal preferences for recognition, snacks, and gifts to build stronger relationships.

Further Learning and Recap (00:12:06) The speaker recommends a book on the topic and recaps the core concepts of the Platinum Rule and its benefits.

Your Leadership Challenge (00:13:07) Listeners are challenged to reflect on their own leadership style and start incorporating the Platinum Rule in their daily interactions.

Podcast Outro (00:14:27) The host concludes the episode, encouraging listeners to share the podcast and keep persevering through the unseen challenges of success.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'Leadership isn't a title; it's ownership of who you are and how you show up.'

The problem isn't that people are difficult; we just often assume everyone prefers what we prefer.'

'The Platinum Rule challenges us to stop asking, "What would I want?" and to start asking, "What would they want?"'

'Tailoring to other people makes them feel seen and heard.'

'If you're doing the hard, unseen, uncomfortable work, keep going; it counts more than you think.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Website: jdonohueleadership.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Great leadership begins when you stop asking, 'What would I want?' and start asking, 'What do they need?'"

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode, host Janel Donohue explores vulnerability as a cornerstone of courageous leadership. Through a personal story about an employee named Georgie, who secretly struggled financially while hiding it behind a confident exterior, Janel illustrates how leaders often misread behaviors by making assumptions instead of asking questions. Drawing on Brené Brown's Dare to Lead, she introduces the concept of "rumbling" — having honest, curiosity-driven conversations — and shares practical language tools to transform difficult interactions into moments of genuine connection and understanding.

Timestamps

Introduction to Success as an Iceberg (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's theme: exploring the hidden struggles and perseverance behind visible success and what true leadership means.

The Story of Georgie (00:00:53) The host shares a story about an employee named Georgie who wanted leadership opportunities but surprisingly declined a perfect one.

Initial Misinterpretation and Regret (00:02:19) The host describes her shock and disappointment at Georgie's refusal, admitting she made negative assumptions about Georgie's commitment and drive.

The Courage to Lead with Vulnerability (00:03:20) The episode's theme is introduced: leading with vulnerability, addressing fears and feelings, and managing behaviors in leadership effectively.

Vulnerability as a Leadership Skill (00:04:48) The host challenges the traditional view of leadership, arguing that the strongest leaders are those who embrace and use vulnerability.

The Man in the Arena Quote (00:06:05) The host shares Theodore Roosevelt's famous quote to illustrate that true leadership involves taking risks and being in the arena.

Looking Below the Waterline (00:07:32) Leaders must look beyond visible behaviors to understand the underlying fears, feelings, and stories that drive their team members.

The Rest of the Story (00:08:46) The host reveals the real reason Georgie declined the opportunity: she was struggling financially and couldn't afford the gas money.

Avoiding Tough Conversations (00:11:31) Leaders often avoid difficult conversations, leading them to create and act on incorrect stories they've made up in their heads.

What is a Rumble? (00:12:57) The concept of a "rumble" from Brené Brown is introduced: a conversation defined by curiosity, generosity, and staying engaged.

The Six Myths of Vulnerability (00:14:12) The host debunks common myths about vulnerability, such as it being a weakness or something that can be avoided.

Introduction to Rumble Language (00:15:49) Practical communication tools and phrases from Brené Brown are shared to help transform difficult conversations from accusations to curious inquiries.

"The Story I'm Making Up Is..." (00:17:27) The host highlights her favorite rumble phrase, explaining how it helps check assumptions before they become damaging, incorrect beliefs.

Choosing Courage Over Comfort (00:21:09) The host explains that meaningful growth and leadership require choosing courage, which often involves stepping into uncomfortable but necessary situations.

Three Questions for Reflection (00:22:31) The host poses three questions for listeners to reflect on: Where are you choosing comfort over courage? What conversation are you avoiding? What is the story you're making up?

Conclusion and Call to Action (00:23:54) The host encourages listeners to rumble, lead with courage, and remember that success is built on moments of vulnerability.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'Leadership isn't a title; it's ownership of who you are and how you show up.'

'It's learning to stand in the room and say, "I belong here," even when doubt is sitting quietly behind your confidence.'

'The strongest leaders aren't those who avoid vulnerability; they're the ones who know how to use it and lean into it.'

'We judge others by their actions and we judge ourselves by our intentions.'

'Comfort and courage rarely coexist.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Website: jdonohueleadership.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Leadership begins the moment you get curious enough to replace assumptions with courageous conversations."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success as an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue welcomes Barbara Gustavson, speaker, facilitator, brain health educator, and founder of Discover Next Step Consulting. Barbara is passionate about helping community leaders, caregivers, and professionals navigate stress, burnout, and nervous system dysregulation with practical, science-backed tools. Drawing from psychology and neuroscience, she translates complex brain health concepts into relatable strategies that help people think more clearly, manage their energy, and lead with greater resilience. Barbara also oversees Dr. Daniel Amen's brain health certification programs, supporting clinicians, educators, and organizations in building healthier habits for wellness and leadership.

Barbara shares how success often masks hidden struggles beneath the surface, including burnout, negative thought patterns, and emotional exhaustion. Through practical frameworks like REGROUP and the HALT method, she offers tools for managing stress, resetting the nervous system, and building productive peace. She also opens up about overcoming learning disabilities and low self-esteem, reminding listeners that effective leadership isn't about pushing harder, but learning how to work with your brain during life's most demanding seasons. Together, Janel and Barbara explore the hidden work beneath every success story and the importance of self-care, resilience, and embracing imperfection along the way.

Timestamps

Podcast Introduction (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's theme: exploring the unseen hard work and perseverance that lies beneath the surface of success.

Welcoming the First Guest (00:00:53) Host Janel Donohue welcomes her first guest, Barb Gustavson, expressing her admiration for Barb as a friend and mentor.

The Iceberg of Success (00:01:33) Janel shares how she admired Barb from afar, seeing only the "tip of the iceberg" before getting to know her.

Introducing Barb Gustavson (00:02:57) Janel formally introduces Barb Gustavson, highlighting her work as a speaker, facilitator, brain health educator, and consultant.

Appearing Successful While Struggling Internally (00:03:40) Barb discusses moments of looking fine on the outside while internally experiencing stress, panic, and nervous system dysregulation.

Recognizing and Managing Overwhelm (00:05:51) Barb explains how she learned to recognize her patterns of shutting down and developed tools to regulate her nervous system.

The Power of Daily Practice (00:08:02) Barb shares her daily mindfulness practices, like deep breathing and taking "brain breaks," to build resilience against stress.

Listen to the Whisper, Not the Two-by-Four (00:09:23) Barb explains the importance of recognizing what gives and drains energy to avoid reaching a point of total burnout.

Early Signs of Burnout for Leaders (00:12:24) Barb identifies over-committing as a key early sign of burnout and reframes self-care as essential for effective leadership.

The Origin of Self-Retreats (00:15:20) Barb shares how her caregiving journey led her to start taking monthly self-retreats to reset and recharge her brain.

The HALT Method for Overwhelm (00:20:39) Barb introduces the HALT method (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) as a tool to identify and address immediate needs.

Advocating for Your Own Needs (00:23:17) The importance of using your words to advocate for your own needs, as no one else will do it for you.

How Chronic Responsibility Changes the Brain (00:25:38) Barb explains how chronic stress can physically change the brain, showing up as trauma and impacting executive function.

What High-Functioning People Avoid Hearing (00:27:04) High-capacity people often miss early signs of burnout, like cynicism or constant depletion, and need to create more margin.

The REGROUP Framework (00:32:12) Barb outlines her REGROUP framework: Resilience, Energy, Guard your margin, Regulate your nervous system, Operate from alignment, Update thinking, Prioritize brain health.

Tackling Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTS) (00:36:32) Barb explains how to question and reframe automatic negative thoughts (ANTS) using a four-question process to retrain the brain.

Naming Your Brain (00:42:02) Barb suggests naming your brain to create distance from negative thoughts and have a more objective internal conversation.

The Journey Beneath the Bio (00:43:49) Barb shares that her unseen journey involved overcoming learning disabilities and mining for her own strengths and self-worth.

Advice for Those Barely Hanging On (00:47:49) Barb's advice is that there's nothing wrong with you; it might be your nervous system, which you can change.

Accept It, Change It, or Move On (00:48:34) Barb's moment is learning to move forward on decisions even when not 100% sure, accepting "good enough" over perfection.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'Listen to the whisper, don't wait for the two-by-four.'

'I need to pour into my own cup first. I can give to myself too, and if I don't, I'm actually not as effective.'

'We can advocate for others easily, but to advocate for our needs, no one else is going to advocate for us.'

'I felt kind of clumsy in my growth. That was the hardest for me, was to allow myself to find my own process and be okay with being messy.'

'I think for me, allowing myself to move forward even if I don't have all the answers.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

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

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

FOLLOW BARB:

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

https://amzn.to/4rAbBGi

"Burnout doesn't happen overnight—it starts when we ignore the quiet signals telling us we need care too."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success as an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue explores the theme of belonging and self-doubt in leadership. She vulnerably shares how, despite her accomplishments, she often whispered "I don't belong here" in professional settings. Through a series of meaningful coincidences at a networking event called Be the Bean, Janel receives powerful affirmations that she does belong. Drawing on Harvard's Counterclockwise Experiment, she highlights how mindset shapes reality, encouraging listeners to replace negative self-talk with affirmations like "I belong here" — because owning your place is at the heart of true leadership.

Timestamps

Introduction to "Success as an Iceberg" (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's theme: exploring the unseen struggles and perseverance behind success and the importance of belonging.

The Habit of Comparison (00:00:54) Janel discusses the natural human tendency to compare ourselves to others, often focusing on their external accomplishments versus our internal feelings.

Sharing Personal Vulnerabilities (00:02:26) Janel vulnerably shares her own deep-seated feeling of not belonging in certain rooms, despite her outward success and accomplishments.

The "Be the Bean" Networking Event (00:03:27) Janel recounts attending a networking event and explains the "Be the Bean" metaphor, which is about positively changing your environment.

Key Principles of "Be the Bean" (00:05:50) A breakdown of the core ideas from the networking group: transform your environment, create positive change, and build community.

First "I Belong Here" Moment (00:07:06) During a networking exercise, a partner shares how seeing Janel made her feel she belonged, confirming Janel's prayer about the episode.

Second "I Belong Here" Moment (00:08:08) A second networking partner affirms "you belong here" after Janel shares her need for a website builder, providing another sign.

The Illusion of Success (00:10:24) Leaders who only show their wins can make others feel inadequate, whereas sharing vulnerabilities is more inspiring and relatable.

Overcoming Self-Doubt in Leadership Roles (00:11:38) Janel reflects on past leadership roles where she initially felt she didn't belong but eventually realized her value and contributions.

The Discomfort of a New Venture (00:15:26) After leaving a long-term job to start her own company, Janel describes the return of self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

A Student's Transformation (00:16:40) Janel shares the pride of seeing a student who once felt out of place confidently own the stage during a presentation.

The Third "I Belong Here" Confirmation (00:17:51) A mentor confirms Janel's place on stage at an event, providing the third sign that she should create this episode.

You Belong Because You Are You (00:18:59) An encouragement to listeners that they belong because of their unique gifts, experiences, and strengths, not by comparing to others.

The Power of Your Thoughts (00:20:17) Janel explains that your mind and body believe what you tell them, whether the thoughts are negative or positive.

The Counterclockwise Experiment (00:21:20) A 1979 Harvard study is cited, showing how changing men's environment and mindset physically reversed some signs of aging.

Using Positive Affirmations (00:25:36) Janel commits to using positive affirmations to reprogram her brain and combat negative self-talk about her new business venture.

Conclusion and Final Encouragement (00:27:56) The host closes by encouraging listeners to share the episode, keep doing the hard work, and believe they belong.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'I have whispered to myself, "I don't belong here," and I immediately start comparing myself to others in the room.'

'I quickly turned my thinking around to, "I do belong here."'

'I have had to learn that I belong here because of what I bring to the table, and it is okay if it is different.'

'You belong here because you are the only one who can be you.'

'Believe that you belong here, wherever your here is.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeldonohue/

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Belonging begins the moment you stop comparing yourself and start owning who you are."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of Success Is an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue explores Patrick Lencioni's "Six Types of Working Genius" model. Using the acronym WIDGET, she breaks down six work styles—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—explaining how each person has two natural "geniuses," two "competencies," and two "frustrations." Janel shares her own geniuses (Galvanizing and Discernment) and highlights how understanding this model can boost team dynamics, productivity, and personal fulfillment. As a certified facilitator, she encourages listeners to discover their own working genius and apply these insights in their professional lives.

Timestamps

Introduction to the Six Types of Working Genius (00:01:16) The host introduces the concept of the "Six Types of Working Genius," a model created by Patrick Lencioni.

Why Working Genius is a Valuable Tool (00:04:32) The host explains how this model differs from others and how it improves joy, productivity, morale, and team effectiveness.

The WIDGET Acronym Explained (00:07:43) Each of the six types of working genius—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—is defined and explained.

Geniuses, Competencies, and Frustrations (00:12:23) The host explains that everyone has two geniuses, two competencies, and two frustrations among the six types of work.

The Host's Personal Working Genius Profile (00:14:26) Janel Donohue shares her own geniuses (Galvanizing, Discernment), competencies (Enablement, Tenacity), and frustrations (Wonder, Invention) as an example.

How to Apply the Working Genius Model (00:22:28) The host encourages listeners to reflect on their own geniuses and frustrations and how they interact with their team members.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'When I started this model, I was not maximizing my joy and fulfillment, but I didn't know why.'

'You can be really good at one of your working frustrations, and that's dangerous because everybody thinks because you're good at it, you love to do it.'

'When I did this assessment, it was such an "aha" moment for me because my frustrations are in wonder and in invention.'

'When I see the light bulbs go off, it is so rewarding. When I see teams working together, when I get the response where people say, "This has changed the way our team works," I love it.'

'What I want you to walk away with today is you are a genius, and I hope that I can be a part of you figuring out what your geniuses are.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeldonohue/

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Your greatest strengths aren't just what you're good at—they're the work that gives you energy and fulfillment."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In the debut episode of Success as an Iceberg, host Janel Donohue introduces her podcast's core theme: true success lies beneath the surface, built on hard work, failures, and perseverance rarely seen by others. She shares a powerful kindergarten memory of overcoming bullying, which taught her a lifelong mantra—you can't control what happens, but you can control your response. Janel reflects on her own leadership journey, including self-doubt in her consulting work, and encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability. The episode sets the tone for honest conversations with leaders about the hidden struggles behind their achievements.

Timestamps

Welcome to "Success as an Iceberg" (00:00:03) The host introduces the podcast's core concept: success is more than what's visible on the surface.

The Human Tendency to Compare (00:00:55) The speaker discusses why we naturally compare ourselves to others, focusing on external achievements while ignoring our internal feelings.

The Iceberg Analogy of Success (00:02:32) Success is like an iceberg; what's seen above the water is small compared to the hard work hidden beneath.

A Personal Moment of Doubt (00:03:43) The host shares a recent story of feeling defeated after a difficult client conversation, questioning her own new career path.

The Passion for Leadership (00:04:56) Despite challenges, the speaker's passion for leadership concepts and helping other leaders improve lives drives her forward.

A First Lesson in Leadership (00:07:08) The host recounts a childhood story of being bullied in kindergarten for her appearance due to a birth defect.

A Mother's Leadership Mantra (00:09:22) Her mother's advice to "accept it, change it, or move on" becomes a foundational leadership lesson.

Confronting the Bully (00:11:19) Following her mother's advice, she confronts the bully with kindness, changing the dynamic and ending the teasing.

Speaking at Leadership Fredericksburg (00:13:43) The host shares her experience being invited to speak at a leadership program and feeling insecure among more experienced speakers.

Sharing the Iceberg Concept (00:16:58) She explains how she used the iceberg visual in her presentations to teach about the unseen work behind success.

The Goal of the Podcast (00:20:33) The host outlines her hope to create a community where guests and listeners can share their "under the waterline" stories.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

"Leadership isn't a title or a degree; it's ownership of who you are and how you show up."

"It's learning to stand in the room and say, 'I belong here,' even when doubt is sitting quietly behind your confidence."

"When we fail, those are the times—if we get back up—that we make the biggest difference."

"I did learn a life mantra that I use every day now: you don't have control over what happens to you, but you do have control over how you respond."

"If we can all be a little vulnerable and share about those things that we persevered through, maybe other leaders would be a little braver."

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeldonohue/

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Success isn't built by what people see—it's shaped by everything you overcame beneath the surface."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this teaser episode, leadership facilitator, speaker, and storyteller Janel Donohue introduces her new podcast, Success Is an Iceberg, premiering May 22nd. Janel shares the powerful idea behind the show: what people see as "success" is only the tip of the iceberg. Beneath every achievement are the failures, doubts, difficult conversations, and defining moments that truly shape a leader. Through honest conversations and real stories, this podcast invites listeners to explore the unseen side of success and discover what it really takes to lead with authenticity and purpose.

Timestamps

The Illusion of Success (00:00:00)

We often see success as effortless, overlooking the hidden struggles and challenges that lie beneath the surface of achievement.

Introducing the "Success is an Iceberg" Concept (00:00:15)

Success is like an iceberg; the visible part is small compared to the unseen failures, insecurities, and hard decisions below.

Podcast Launch Announcement (00:00:34)

Janel Donohue announces her new podcast, "Successes in Iceberg," launching on May 22nd to explore leadership and personal growth.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

'I'm Janel Donohue, leadership facilitator, speaker, and storyteller.'

'On May 22nd, I'm launching the Successes in Iceberg podcast.'

RESOURCES:

Connect With Me: Janel Donohue

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janel.s.donohue/

LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeldonohue/

FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Success Is An Iceberg on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

"Success isn't built by what people see—it's shaped by everything you overcame beneath the surface."

Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com

Contact us for expert podcast production and support.