In this episode of The Jody Maberry Show, I broke my own rules and recorded using only my iPhone.

When I was with Jeff Noel this summer in Glacier National Park, Jeff wanted to record short podcast episodes using only the iPhone. I was hesitant at first, but we recorded the first episode sitting next to Grennell Glacier, and despite some initial technical difficulties, we produced a quality recording.

As Jeff and I reflected on our travel in the wilderness, I realized recording episodes on the iPhone could allow us to record anywhere, anytime.

Jeff Noel and I have been exploring ways to work from anywhere, and here is what we have learned:

You can work from anywhere if you're willing to break the rules and think outside the box.

You can work from anywhere if you're willing to take some risks. This may mean recording a podcast on your phone in an unusual location, as Jeff Noel did, or it may mean something else entirely. The important thing is to be open to new ideas and to experiment with different ways of doing things. With creativity, you can find ways to work from anywhere – even if it means breaking some of your rules. So go ahead, explore different ways of working, and see what works best for you. You may be surprised at how much you can accomplish by thinking outside the box.

Sometimes it's worth it to do something, even if you don't get anything tangible out of it.

This could mean doing something for the experience or the learning opportunity, and it could also mean doing something simply because it's fun or because it's a good memory. Whatever the reason, sometimes it's worth it to do something, even if there's no immediate payoff.

One example of this is traveling. It can be expensive and time-consuming, but it's also a great way to see new places and learn about different cultures. Another example is taking on a new hobby. It might not be something you're immediately good at, but learning something new and challenging can be rewarding. So next time you're considering whether or not to do something, ask yourself if it's worth it for the experience or the learning opportunity. You might be surprised at how often the answer is yes.

It's important to be open to change and strive for excellence constantly. Do not be afraid to do something that you are not comfortable with. You should not be scared to experiment and try new things; this is the only way to truly learn and grow.

It's also important to be open to change and to constantly strive for excellence. This means that you should be willing to learn new things and experiment, and you should also be willing to work hard and push yourself to be the best you can be.

“You motivate the masses, but you inspire the individual.”

Notable Moments

00:17 – Reflecting on his time as VP of Disney’s Animal Kingdom

01:32 – The unique magic and conservation work at Animal Kingdom

06:20 – Why culture and personal connection matter in leadership

08:48 – Leading people as whole individuals, not job titles

13:16 – The difference between managing 5,000 people vs. inspiring individuals

15:34 – What people say about you is the truth—whether it’s true or not

17:07 – An  unforgettable impression from Bob Iger

20:11 – “There will always be a story about you—make sure it’s the one you want told”

22:33 – Changing your environment with a simple “hello”

24:28 – Manifesting your own reality through energy and belief

In this conversation with Djuan Rivers, former Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we explore what true leadership looks like up close. During a visit to Animal Kingdom, I watched Djuan connect with cast members like old friends, not as their boss. You could tell they looked to him as someone who genuinely saw them. Djuan explains how leaders create culture through visibility, care, and everyday moments. Throughout our conversation he shares a powerful Bob Iger story, explains why perception becomes truth, and reminds us that your reputation is built whether you’re present or not. Djuan’s belief? You manifest your own reality.

Read my blog for more on how individual connection is the secret to lasting inspiration.

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Many people are familiar with podcasts. It doesn’t matter what industry you are in, you can benefit from podcasting in one way or another. Cassie Tucker joins me as we unpack three strategies for leveraging podcasts to reach your goals.

The first strategy is the one most think of when they consider podcasts. The long-term podcasts. Ideally, in this scenario, you post weekly and maintain the podcast an indefinite period. There are many benefits to this strategy. It allows you to build a network and connect in ways professionally that might otherwise be outside of your grasp. You can even foster a relationship before you even meet people. On a professional level, it allows you to build your email list and establish yourself as an authority on a topic or in a specific space. It can even help create additional content and boost your SEO when used strategically.

The second way you can use a podcast is a short-term podcast. These podcasts are for a limited time and have a specific focus. It is the perfect tool for authors or speakers. You determine how many episodes you will host and build the arc of your podcast on that foundation. Hosting a short-term podcast provides extra exposure for you and extra opportunities for engagement with your audience.

Lastly, one way anyone can utilize podcasts is to be a guest on existing podcasts. This is a great strategy for getting exposure to already existing audiences. It is an easy way to build your email list by providing opt-ins or a call to action that provides them with a resource. It also acts as an unofficial endorsement by the host, bolstering credibility. It also allows you to repurpose and customize your story or content for different audiences. Podcast Guest Magic is a course on how to successfully be a guest on podcasts.

No matter your vision or commitment level, there is a way you can utilize podcasts to propel your endeavors to new heights. 

Resources:

Will Talks Biz Podcast

Podcast Magic

Podcast Guest Magic

The Secret Society of Success by Tim Schurrer

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Quotes: 

“When you have to show up every week, with something to say you start to understand what you believe in and who you are” JM

Tanner Brock is back for our traditional follow-up episode, and he has three questions locked and loaded.

First, what is the most afraid you have been in the wilderness? I can tell you it isn’t meeting a bear, and it isn’t getting lost. The answer might surprise you.

Second, if you started a new podcast, what would the new podcast be about, and what would the name be? I have a topic top of mind, but the name might be more difficult to answer.

Third, you were one of the attendees at the Changing Discourse Mastermind in Kansas City. What was your big takeaway from the event? It is a tie between an exercise we did and one specific speaker.

Because we made good time, I went ahead and gave Tanner a bonus question and snuck on a surprise guest to further explore the idea of leaning into your strengths and what to do with your weaknesses.

Resources:

E-mail Tanner: [email protected] to receive the two page sheet on how to gain mentors and receive a 15 minute call.

Changingdiscourse.comTwitter

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Tanner Brock has returned to discuss his newest resource, a five-step system to gaining true mentors in your life. 

Tanner is many things, namely the founder and CEO of Changing Discourse and host of the Changing Discourse Podcast. After six years of seeking out and learning from some of the best mentors, Tanner shares how to find the right mentors with us today. 

Once you identify someone you want to mentor you, there are five things to do.

1. Don’t seek the relationship. Most people don’t have the time to invest fully in someone. Approach them with that in mind.
2. Ask for work. Ask what you need to learn to do. You don’t even need to talk. Send an email and ask what you need to do practically to accomplish what you want to learn.
3. Disappear. Get off their radar. They don’t have to worry or think about you, but you are working behind the scenes.
4. Do the work. Once you have their insight, go and do what they told you to do. Don’t question it. If it resonates, go and do it. If they are the right mentor for you, what they suggest will work and impact your life when you apply it.
5. Return and report. After you do the work and you have accomplished something, circle back and share it with them. Let them know what you were able to do because of what they shared with you.

Mentors teach you something, and then you can take it and teach others.

Resources:

E-mail Tanner: [email protected] to receive the two page sheet on how to gain mentors and receive a 15 minute call.

Changingdiscourse.comTwitter

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Quotes:

“There is always someone out there who has done more or seen more or experienced more than we have” TB

“It is powerful to be a student.” JM

"Don't do what everyone else is doing. You don't have to copy someone else. And if something else did work, yeah, it worked for them. But that doesn't mean you have to follow their exact recipe."

When it comes to sales, following a cookie-cutter approach often leads to frustration and missed opportunities. I learned this firsthand while selling my car on Facebook Marketplace. A lot of the success depends on authenticity, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of what buyers value.

Effective sales descriptions, setting the right price, and embracing transparency can transform your sales results. It can be as simple as choosing the right words and repeating key details. Understand that price sets the tone for a buyer’s perception. Doing good work, even if unnoticed by most, still makes a difference.

His experience reinforces that differentiation is key—you don’t need to copy someone else’s success to create your own. By being transparent and focusing on adding value, you not only build trust but also set yourself apart in a crowded marketplace.

If you're ready to improve your sales effectiveness and engage customers more meaningfully, start by applying these lessons. Be clear, be authentic, and don’t be afraid to create your own path.

• The words you use matter.
• People don't see what is right in front of them so you have to say it several times.
• Price sets the tone. People don't value a low price.
• You can help someone and still win. Lower price, he wins and I win.
• There are some people who appreciate good writing. Most won't notice. Do good work anyway.
• Don't do what everyone else is doing.
• Don't try to hide anything.

Notable Moments

00:00:42 - Introduction and Selling the Car

00:07:59 - Importance of Words and Storytelling

00:11:56 - Pricing and Value Perception

00:13:53 - The Power of Helping Others Win

00:16:35 - Attention to Detail and Addressing Potential Issues

00:18:51 - Differentiation and Standing Out

00:21:52 - Transparency and Anticipating Potential Problems

00:28:15 - The Unique Appeal of Jaguar

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Cassie Tucker started working with me one year ago. Initially, Cassie provided support for the work I was doing. Over time, her role expanded, and now she provides operational support and marketing strategy for my business and our clients. We've worked together on product launches and events. 

Cassie joins us for this episode of The Jody Maberry Show to discuss what she has learned during her one year working for Maberica, INC. Cassie talks about how living out your dream is possible in ways you might not expect, the importance of processes, leadership lessons she's learned from clients, how to have intention behind every piece of marketing, and how to become an excellent podcast host. 

We also discuss some of our upcoming projects, including the book release for Lee Cockerell's Career Magic and the launch of my suite of podcasting courses. 

Cassie has become the co-host of the Will Talks Biz podcast. We share the story behind that show and how Cassie became the co-host. 

Resources:

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Quotes:

“Keep an open mind for unexpected and alternate ways you can achieve your dream.” Cassie Tucker

“It’s okay to take a rest. Work can wait. Your body and your family cannot.

Notable Moments

00:47 – First vacation with serious unplugging

03:11 – Excitement about returning to work vs. missing out

04:18 – Will taking a break create a 9-month ripple effect?

06:22 – Approaching this trip as if it were the “last time”

07:57 –Rest strategies: planning, automation, and communication

09:27 – Redefining unplugging for entrepreneurs: daily, weekly, or modified breaks

10:47 – How rest unlocked creative thinking and vision realignment

13:09 – The surprising clarity from only working on what matters

14:32 – Rest reveals which projects excite you—and which ones don’t

18:44 – Personalizing client service through awareness and anticipation

Rest isn’t a reward. It’s a critical part of the work. I’ve recently done something I’ve rarely done before: take a whole month away from work. Usually when I’m in Florida, I work half-days and try to squeeze in fun. This time, I did it differently. I have to admit, it’s changed how I think about rest.

Cassie and I talk about what it means to intentionally unplug and how to prepare for time off. I used to worry that rest meant you were slacking. Now I understand it’s about aligning with the life you say you’re building. Stepping away gives you margin for creativity and insight into what really matters in your business.

What really surprised me was how much I questioned whether certain tasks were worth picking back up again. Sometimes we keep doing things just because they’re in motion.

You’ll also hear bonus thoughts on service, personalization, and what my dog’s stay at Dog Townsend taught me about exceeding expectations.

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Mark Rucker is with me again in our traditional follow-up episode where he can ask me any three questions of me that he wants. Mark took a page out of his own book to come up with his three questions and they are great.

First, have you ever participated in a personal talent assessment? I have personally done a couple over the years, and I have had some points of contention with the results at times.

Next, how have you professionally used your helper abilities to help others pursue their dreams? Would you believe what I'm doing right now is directly tied to my helper ability?

Third, pick a leadership lesson you want to emulate or a poor leadership attribute you never want to exhibit? Since I am wired to help, I’ll give you one of each.

Fourth (that’s right, Mark snuck in a bonus question), which national park are you itching to visit? It is a toss-up that spans the continental United States.

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Mark Rucker joins me and shares secrets from his Life and Leadership files. Mark worked with Disney for 32 years, has served as an executive with Great Wolf Lodge, and recently authored the book Coffee with the Mouse: Life and Leadership Wisdom from 32 years at Disney and Beyond.

Early in life, Mark started collecting lessons on leadership into his drop file. Over time, it morphed into life and leadership lessons that he has since shared over coffee and now in a powerful book. Character is important. You will never know if being nice and humble will get in the way of advancement, but you must be true to yourself. Authenticity is key to succeeding in your own life. However, it is not a lack of humility to express a desire to improve to your leaders. That is how you manage your career while maintaining your integrity. 

When you make a leap in leadership and move to manage more, it is necessary to take on an adoption mind sent. An adoption mindset is built on the communication and understanding of caring for your team, leading with compassion, and treating them as individuals. Get to know them. Connect and let them know you really care. 

Whether leading in the office or at home, there are parallels. You, as the leader, provide values, speak the truth, and provide wisdom and direction. As those under your leadership grow, give freedom for them to walk in what they have learned, and the space needed to grow. Don’t worry about being like everyone else; it may have served you well in high school, but now you will benefit from standing out.

Resources:

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Quotes:

“How you treat people and what you say to people and how you say it to them can have a lifelong effect.” MR