Looking to develop mental toughness for leaders ?

This episode is an athlete's guide to the mindset shifts that fuel elite performance in the boardroom.

We sit down with Tanya Friedlander, a former professional athlete turned executive coach, to break down her framework for success.

Learn how to master your energy (not just your time), define goals with intention, and bounce back from burnout.

Tanya also gets real about why deliberate practice beats raw talent, and the simple nutrition and sleep habits that high performers often get wrong.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to High-Performance Coaching
01:34 – The Journey from Athlete to Executive Coach
02:43 – Defining Goals for High-Performing Teams
04:40 – Challenges Faced by Executive Leaders
06:58 – Building Resilience in High-Pressure Environments
09:21 – The Mental Game of Leadership
10:59 – Deliberate Practice and Mastery
12:55 – Energy Management vs. Time Management
14:52 – Recognizing Burnout and Its Signs
17:01 – The Role of Nutrition and Sleep in Performance
19:04 – Setting Boundaries for Focus and Productivity
21:16 – Achieving Goals Effortlessly
23:55 – Overcoming Analysis Paralysis
25:32 – Integrating Personal and Professional Goals
27:45 – The Importance of Reflection and Contribution
30:32 – Taking Action and Learning from Mistakes

Guest

Tanya Friedlander
High-Performance Coach | Former Champion Athlete | Founder of Strategic Coaching Group

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
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What's the real secret to effective leadership development? It's understanding how to balance friendship and accountability at the top.

In this episode of Executive Connect, host Melissa Aarskaug talks with executive coach Jeff Holmes about cracking the code on leadership clarity and making decisions that actually stick.

Jeff unpacks the idea of "friendship leadership" why empathy doesn't mean weakness and shares how leaders can develop the psychological capital (think: hope, confidence, and resilience) to thrive in any environment.

If you've ever felt like you're juggling too many leadership hats, this episode is your reset button.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Executive Coaching and Leadership Challenges
03:03 – Friendship Leadership vs. Accountability in Leadership
05:48 – Navigating Change: Understanding Change Styles
09:04 – The Importance of Psychological Capital
12:01 – Developing Hope, Confidence, Resilience, and Optimism
14:53 – The Role of Coaching in Leadership Development
39:01 – Final Thoughts on Leadership and Coaching

Guest:

Jeff Holmes
Executive Coach | Leadership Consultant | Founder, Holmes Executive Coaching

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect



Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
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Feeling stuck and wondering how to reinvent your career ?

This episode is your guide to turning corporate burnout into a bold new chapter.

We sit down with bestselling author and coach Cynthia Bentzen Mercer to talk about what it really takes for women to step into leadership with clarity and purpose.

Cynthia shares her journey from feeling restless in her career to building a new path.

Learn the importance of mentorship, how to build your network, and why flexibility is a powerful retention strategy.

If you're navigating a plateau or plotting your next move, this conversation is packed with insight.


Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Career Restlessness
03:12 – Transforming Restlessness into Opportunity
06:04 – Overcoming Stagnation and Setting Goals
09:04 – The Importance of Mentorship and Allyship
11:50 – Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
15:09 – Challenges of Building a Network
18:01 – Strategies for Retaining Female Talent
19:51 – Creating a Flexible Work Environment
22:59 – Balancing Work and Family Life
26:09 – Final Thoughts and Advice

Guest:

Cynthia Bentzen Mercer
Executive Coach | Bestselling Author | Former Corporate Leader Turned Entrepreneur

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Looking for a digital transformation strategy that actually works?

This episode is a CTO's 7-step blueprint to making change stick in modern organizations.

We sit down with global CTO Talila Millman, creator of the Triumph Framework, to break down how to lead a successful transformation.

Talila shares her hard-won experience navigating complex SaaS environments, mergers, and innovation cycles.

Learn how to overcome the people-challenges of change, from imposter syndrome to leadership breakthroughs, and what it takes to scale a team through a company-wide shift.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Talila Millman
01:21 – Trends in SaaS and Digital Transformation
04:05 – Challenges in Digital Transformation
04:46 – The Triumph Framework Explained
09:39 – Success Stories Using the Triumph Framework
17:02 – Next-Gen Technologies Impacting Business
21:24 – Managing Mergers and Acquisitions
27:19 – Integrating Teams Post-Merger
30:25 – Opportunities for Women in Tech
34:40 – Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
36:15 – Final Thoughts on Collaboration

Guest:

Talila Millman
Chief Technology Officer | Transformation Leader | Creator of the Triumph Framework

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
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Glass ceilings get all the attention, but the "sticky floor syndrome" might be what’s really holding women back from rising in the workplace.

In this episode, we sit down with Erica Anderson Rooney to break down the hidden obstacles women face and how to finally get "unstuck".

Erica shares powerful insights on self-worth, navigating workplace dynamics, and balancing motherhood at the executive level.

If you’re ready to challenge your limits and rebuild your workplace culture from the ground up, this conversation is for you.


Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Erica Anderson Rooney
01:05 – Understanding Glass Ceilings and Sticky Floors
04:37 – Identifying Sticky Floors in the Workplace
06:34 – Taking Action to Get Unstuck
11:49 – The Mindset of Successful Executives
16:34 – The Importance of Empathy in Leadership
20:57 – Shifting Workplace Culture Post-Pandemic
23:22 – Rebuilding Toxic Workplace Cultures
30:40 – Balancing Motherhood and Executive Roles
38:29 – Advice for Overwhelmed Executive Women

Guest:

Erica Anderson Rooney
Chief People Officer | Executive Coach | Host of From Now to Next

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Wondering how to build an innovation culture that drives real change from the inside out?

This episode is a leader's guide to inspiring resilience and creativity in uncertain times.

We sit down with Fortune 100 innovator and author Elizabeth Bieniek to unpack her philosophy.

Learn about the "human side of tech," Elizabeth's signature concept of "good peopling," and how to find joy in the leadership journey.

Whether you're leading a startup or scaling a legacy brand, this conversation will leave you thinking differently.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Elizabeth Bieniek
02:44 – The Book: Cake on Tuesday
07:43 – Philosophy of Good Peopling
10:59 – Leading Through Uncertainty
13:33 – Emerging Technology and Human Connection
17:51 – Demystifying Innovation
20:53 – Finding Joy in the Journey

Guest:

Elizabeth Bieniek
Innovation Consultant | Author of Cake on Tuesday | Former Fortune 100 Executive

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Looking to build mental toughness for women in high-stakes environments ?

This episode is your guide to leading fearlessly.

We sit down with mental toughness coach Sheryl Kline to unpack how clarity, confidence, and influence can shape you as a leader.

Learn why mental toughness isn't just for athletes and get tactical advice on everything from career pivots to balancing personal growth with professional ambition.

This conversation is designed to help women rise, lead, and thrive.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Fearless Female Leadership
02:52 – The Philosophy of Fearless Females
06:03 – Clarity and Confidence in Leadership
09:01 – Influence and the Leadership Pipeline
11:53 – Mental Toughness: A Skill to Cultivate
15:09 – Zoned In vs. Fearless Female Leadership
18:01 – Strategic-Based Empathy in Leadership
21:01 – Balancing Personal and Professional Life
23:52 – Personal Stories and Leadership Philosophy
27:00 – Navigating Career Transitions
29:49 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Women Leaders

Guest:

Sheryl Kline
Mental Toughness Coach | Author | Women’s Leadership Expert

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Overwhelmed by tax season and wondering how to deal with the IRS ?

This episode is a CEO's guide to navigating tax challenges in a post-COVID world.

We sit down with Morgan Q. Anderson, CEO of Golden Lion Tax Solutions, to demystify the ever-changing tax landscape.

Learn what it really takes to handle IRS negotiations, manage tax debt, and stay on top of compliance.

Morgan also explains why financial literacy is more crucial than ever and how you can avoid costly mistakes by working with the right experts.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Tax Solutions and Challenges
03:07 – Navigating Post-COVID Tax Landscape
06:14 – Strategies for Tax Negotiation
08:58 – Financial Literacy and Tax Management
11:52 – The Role of Tax Professionals
15:04 – Education and Resources for Tax Knowledge
18:11 – Technology's Impact on Tax Practices
21:01 – Finding the Right Tax Advisor
23:46 – Closing Thoughts on Tax Solutions

Guest:

Morgan Q. Anderson, EA
CEO | Enrolled Agent | Tax Strategist at Golden Lion Tax Solutions

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug
Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Wondering how to build a personal brand that stands out in today's fast-paced digital world?

This episode is a leader's guide to upgrading your digital presence without losing your authenticity.

We sit down with Holly Medwig, CEO of Monarch Social Media, to get her practical strategies.

Learn how to show up consistently online, why YouTube is a secret weapon for thought leadership, and how to strike the right balance between short and long-form content.

This conversation is packed with the tools you need to build a standout brand.

Timestamps:

00:00 – The Importance of Social Media in Branding
02:32 – YouTube as a Personal Branding Tool
04:28 – Short Form vs Long Form Content
07:03 – Creating Authentic Connections on Social Media
10:37 – Leveraging Analytics for Personal Branding
12:08 – Email Marketing and Community Building
16:04 – The Role of AI in Social Media Management
21:38 – Future Trends in Social Media Branding
24:56 – Choosing the Right Social Media Platforms

Guest:

Holly Medwig
CEO | Social Media Strategist | Personal Branding Expert at Monarch Social Media

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug

Looking for a framework for leading under pressure ? This episode is an Army Colonel's guide to what it really takes to navigate complexity and make bold, high-stakes decisions.

We sit down with Damon Wells, a seasoned Army Colonel with 28 years of leadership experience.

From combat zones to corporate boardrooms, Damon shares how to face uncertainty head-on and build high-trust teams.

Learn his signature "P4 Leadership Model" a practical roadmap for leading with purpose, precision, presence, and persistence.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome
00:26 – Damon’s Background
01:45 – Facing Uncertainty
06:12 – P4 Leadership Model
11:11 – Building Trust
19:43 – Quick Decisions
27:36 – Leadership in Life
36:40 – Resilience Tips
45:47 – Final Takeaways

Guest

Damon Wells
Army Colonel | Leadership Strategist | Resilience Expert

Host:

Melissa Aarskaug

Executive Connect: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Connect With Us:

Podcast Website: https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveConnect

Social LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissa_aarskaug
X: https://x.com/melissaaarskaug