In this episode of the Project 1202 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohnman sits down with Dusty Mysen to explore an extraordinary journey of resilience, leadership, and hope in the face of one of life's greatest adversities: cancer. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at 47, Dusty shares how he transformed a dire prognosis into a battle for life and leadership. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of faith, perseverance, and community support in overcoming insurmountable challenges. It’s more than a story of survival—it’s a guide for leading with courage and purpose through even the darkest times.

One of the episode's most moving moments captures Dusty’s transformative realization about the power of hope through the compassion of a hospital nurse. This interaction illustrates the unexpected sources of strength that can spark a change in mindset:

Dusty Mysen: “The overnight nurse came in... she asked if I was a Christian and offered to pray over me. She laid her hand on my abdomen and prayed for about half an hour, repeating ‘by His stripes, you will be healed.’ She believed it, even when I couldn’t. That was my first glimmer of hope, and it changed everything.”Rich Lohnman: “That courage and belief—on both of your parts—is what leadership is. It’s stepping up even when everything seems hopeless.”

Dusty Mysen’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership extends beyond boardrooms and sports fields—it’s a personal journey of overcoming fear, connecting with others, and inspiring hope. His battle with pancreatic cancer, chronicled in his book Cancer Warrior, serves as a beacon of resilience and motivation for those grappling with their own challenges. Dusty’s journey exemplifies how embracing faith, fostering a strong support network, and leading with courage can turn adversity into a transformative opportunity for growth and leadership.

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In this episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohman welcomes financial advisor and bestselling author Melissa Myers back for an eye-opening discussion on achieving financial health. Building on themes from her book Going Rogue, Melissa offers unconventional strategies for mastering finances by focusing on personal values, self-awareness, and mindful decision-making. The conversation delves into why conventional wisdom may not work for everyone and explores how to take control of your financial journey in a way that aligns with your true priorities.

Summary of Main Topics Discussed:

Poignant Exchange:The power of Melissa’s approach comes through in her emphasis on aligning finances with personal values. This exchange illustrates the shift from standard advice to deeply personal engagement:

Rich: “When somebody says, ‘Okay, I want to start, I'm going to write a budget,’ what would you say to them?”Melissa: “I would say, ‘May I ask you a question?’ I like to gain permission and have that common ground to ask curious, thought-provoking questions. In the book, the first three chapters don’t even talk about money; they’re about reflecting on what’s important in your life.”

This approach challenges the traditional methods of diving into numbers first and instead connects finances to purpose, making financial transformation meaningful and actionable.

Conclusion:Financial freedom isn't just about building wealth—it's about achieving a lifestyle that aligns with your values and goals. Melissa Myers' Going Rogue approach empowers individuals to take charge of their financial health by rethinking conventional strategies and creating a personalized roadmap to success. By focusing on lifestyle analysis, thoughtful spending, and self-awareness, listeners can move beyond stress and into a space where financial decisions reflect their true priorities. If you’re ready to transform your financial life with a supportive and tailored approach, now’s the time to explore these rogue strategies and build a path that truly works for you.

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Podcast production and voice-overs by Connecticut Voice-Over Artist Erik Smelser.

In this episode of the Leadership Lab, hosts Steffani Gerard and Rich Lohman delve into the mindset and habits that separate the average from the above-average, emphasizing the critical role of daily rituals, intentional decision-making, and the importance of continuous growth. If you’ve been feeling stuck or struggling with underperformance—either personally or within your team—this episode provides practical insights into how small but deliberate shifts in mindset and habits can lead to big results. Steffani and Rich share actionable advice, valuable reflections, and powerful tools to help leaders rise above mediocrity and inspire excellence in themselves and others.

Episode Summary:Steffani and Rich explore the concept of the "above-average" individual, breaking down the daily rituals and mindset shifts that lead to lasting success. They discuss how habits, such as reading a "success image" each morning, can set the tone for a day filled with purpose and productivity. Rich emphasizes that success is not about grand gestures but the accumulation of consistent, small actions that align with a clear vision of one’s goals. The discussion touches on the value of saying "no" to distractions in order to maintain focus on long-term objectives. For leaders managing underperformance in their teams, the hosts highlight the importance of looking inward, modeling the behaviors they wish to see, and guiding team members to uncover their deeper motivations.

Key Topics Discussed:

Notable Exchange:This exchange captures the essence of moving beyond mediocrity through intentional choices and habits:

Rich Lohman: "Effort is a decision. Mindset is a decision. Excellence is a decision. Consistency is a decision. There are no shortcuts to success."

Steffani Gerard: "It's the drive towards consistent excellence. If you wake up every day...with the habits and the rituals laid out...you're going to strive towards consistent excellence in everything you do, which does force people to have to focus and say no to things."

Conclusion:In a world where mediocrity often feels like the norm, this episode of the Leadership Lab provides a roadmap for those ready to break free and strive for something greater. Steffani and Rich remind us that success is not an accident but a deliberate choice, made day by day through disciplined actions, self-reflection, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Whether you're a leader looking to elevate your team's performance or an individual seeking personal development, the insights shared in this conversation are a powerful guide. Tune in, take notes, and begin your journey from average to above-average today.

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In this inspiring episode of the Project 1202 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohman sits down with Ian Bowen, a motivational speaker, marathoner, and podcast host of the Positive Persistence Podcast. Ian shares his story of overcoming immense physical and emotional challenges, including a period when he was 75% paralyzed, and how he turned these hardships into powerful lessons in leadership and resilience. Through practical frameworks like his RINSE method and a mindset focused on self-leadership, Ian provides listeners with tangible strategies for overcoming obstacles in their own lives. This conversation will motivate anyone facing personal or professional struggles, offering a roadmap to unlock their true potential.

The episode begins with Ian recounting his recovery journey, from the disbelief of being told he might never regain full mobility to training for and completing multiple marathons. Ian reflects on his desire to always improve—whether that meant shaving time off his marathon or building mental fortitude in the face of daily challenges. Rich and Ian explore the concept of self-leadership, emphasizing that personal growth often requires facing adversity head-on and shifting one’s mindset to focus on the possibilities rather than limitations.

A major highlight of the discussion is Ian's RINSE framework—a five-step process that Ian used to guide his recovery and continues to use in his life. RINSE stands for Remember, Imagine, Notice, Shift, and Expect, and each step plays a critical role in building resilience. Ian discusses how remembering past successes, imagining oneself beyond current challenges, noticing small wins, shifting mindsets, and expecting difficulty can all contribute to developing a resilient spirit.

Throughout the episode, Ian and Rich emphasize that life's setbacks, whether minor or major, all require the same qualities of perseverance and mental strength. The episode encourages listeners to tap into their own "metaphysical backpack," the tools they’ve gained through past challenges, to face current obstacles.

One particularly moving moment in the conversation captures the essence of Ian’s approach to overcoming adversity. Rich asks Ian what message he would give to someone facing hardship. Ian responds by challenging listeners to recognize their own strength:

Ian Bowen: "I think that people need to realize that they are more capable and more powerful than they imagined. And if they take the time to look back on their life and what got them to where they are currently, they will see that they have been able to overcome some amazing obstacles... It didn't look like this. It was a different version of this, but I've been able to succeed in the face of adversity before. And I can do it again."

In a world where leadership is often tested by unexpected challenges, Ian Bowen's story is a testament to the power of self-leadership and resilience. His conversation with Rich Lohman is a reminder that no matter the scale of the challenge—whether it's running a marathon or recovering from a life-altering health crisis—the mindset and methods we adopt play a pivotal role in our ability to overcome. For leaders striving to push past their own limits, Ian’s RINSE framework offers a structured yet personal approach to building mental toughness and inspiring others. As Ian says, “It's all about pushing yourself to find out what the next best version of yourself is going to be.”
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Podcast production and voice-over are provided by voice-over artist and audiobook narrator Erik Smelser.

Rich Lohman sits down with Josh Johnston, founder of agency consulting firm Hydra, to explore the nuances of leadership in today’s challenging landscape. From navigating the uncertainties of a post-pandemic world to understanding the importance of asking the right questions, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to succeed in business and life. Josh shares his journey of moving to Nashville, starting a business, and ultimately, achieving a multi-seven-figure exit. 

Together, Rich and Josh unpack the power of curiosity, the value of calculated risk-taking, and how an emphasis on leadership can be the key to unlocking both personal and professional growth. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone looking to level up their leadership skills.

The discussion kicks off with Josh reflecting on the difficulties of building a business during some of the most uncertain times in recent history, including the pandemic and the political turmoil that followed. He emphasizes that while risks are a natural part of any big decision, the key lies in evaluating those risks and seeing the potential upside.

Rich then shifts the conversation toward the changing dynamics of the workforce, highlighting the complexities of recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent in today's environment. Josh speaks to the importance of balancing risk with opportunity, encouraging listeners to embrace their own entrepreneurial journeys with a mindset of growth and curiosity.

A central theme of the episode is the significance of leadership development. Josh shares why he believes that growth as a leader is essential for achieving both financial success and making a meaningful impact. He offers practical advice on the importance of asking “why” questions, emphasizing that understanding the motivations behind decisions is crucial for effective leadership and sales.

In addition, the two dive into the role of education—both traditional and non-traditional—in shaping successful leaders. While Josh values learning, he contends that success doesn’t necessarily require a college degree, especially in entrepreneurial pursuits.

One of the episode’s most insightful moments comes when Rich asks Josh why someone should invest in personal growth and leadership. Instead of providing a typical motivational answer, Josh reframes the question to get to the root of motivation:Josh Johnston: "Well, my question would be, 'What are you trying to do with it? Because maybe you shouldn't, to be honest.' So I'd figure out, 'Hey, what are you trying to do with it first?'”

This response showcases Josh’s nuanced perspective on leadership—focusing not just on action, but on understanding the underlying purpose behind it. This emphasis on reflection and deeper questioning is a central theme in his consulting approach and sets this episode apart as a valuable guide for listeners seeking more thoughtful approaches to leadership challenges.

In this episode, Rich Lohman and Josh Johnston offer listeners a wealth of actionable insights into what it takes to succeed as a leader in today’s world. From embracing risk with a calculated mindset to the importance of continuous learning and asking deeper questions, the conversation is a call to action for anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact. As Josh points out, success is often about “being ultimately curious” and focusing on the “why” behind decisions. Rich adds to this by emphasizing that life’s journey is about growth, pushing past fear, and helping others along the way. If you're ready to take your leadership skills to the next level, this episode is a must-listen.

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Podcast production and voice-overs are provided by voice-over artist and audiobook narrator Erik Smelser.

In this powerful episode of Leadership Lab, Rich Lohman is joined by Brigitte LaPointe-Dunham, the CEO of Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, for a deep dive into leadership, mentorship, and the strength that comes from embracing your personal story. Together, they explore how living between two worlds—culturally and professionally—has shaped Brigitte’s leadership style and her influence within her tribe. The conversation focuses on the importance of humility, storytelling, and how every experience, good or bad, can be a stepping stone to becoming a great leader. This episode offers valuable insights for those seeking to lead authentically while staying grounded in their values.

Summary:

The episode opens with Rich Lohman discussing the profound impact of mentorship on leadership. He highlights Brigitte's humility, noting how her journey, influenced by her mentor, continues to shape her leadership approach. Brigitte shares her experience of growing up on a Native American reservation, navigating the challenges of integrating that identity into the wider world, and how she eventually embraced her background with pride.

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the idea that one's life story is directly tied to their leadership journey. Brigitte reflects on how her mentor encouraged her to tell her story, pushing her beyond her comfort zone and helping her realize that her background is a source of strength, not a weakness.

Additionally, Brigitte shares her initiative to create a marketing communications office within her tribe, demonstrating how storytelling can have a ripple effect. She underscores the importance of showcasing the tribe's identity, not only internally but to the world, and how that communication strategy has strengthened their community and partnerships.

Rich and Brigitte also discuss the tribal value of humility, explaining how it intertwines with leadership. Brigitte emphasizes that while staying humble is key, it’s equally important to step up and share your story to inspire others and lead future generations.

One of the most poignant exchanges in the episode occurs when Brigitte talks about the cultural value of humility within her tribe and how it initially made her reluctant to share her story. Rich prompts her to reflect on this dynamic:

Brigitte: "I really didn't like people to know that I was Native American growing up... but [my mentor] really pushed me like, hey, tell your story. It's so interesting. You will be the most interesting person in the room when you are with people."

This moment captures the essence of the episode—the struggle many leaders face in balancing humility with self-empowerment, and how telling one’s story can have a transformative impact, both personally and on the communities they lead.

Conclusion:

This episode of Project 12:02 offers listeners a compelling reminder that leadership is not just about skills or titles—it's about authenticity, humility, and the power of storytelling. Brigitte’s journey from feeling reluctant about her identity to becoming a proud and effective leader is both inspirational and instructive. Whether you're just starting your leadership journey or you're an experienced leader facing new challenges, the lessons from this conversation will resonate. The emphasis on mentorship, the importance of embracing one's background, and the reminder that leadership is a daily process, make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to lead with impact.

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Be sure to share this episode with anyone looking to deepen their leadership skills and expand their influence!

Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab! In today’s conversation, Rich Lohman sits down with Barrett Henson to delve into the profound impact of leadership and personal development. Barrett, a fitness industry veteran and transformational leader, shares his insights on the true currency of leadership and how nurturing potential in others can lead to unparalleled fulfillment and success. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, this episode offers practical wisdom on how to cultivate meaningful growth within yourself and your team.

In this episode, Barrett Henson and Rich Lohman explore the essence of effective leadership and the transformative power of personal development. Barrett emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with individuals who are committed to your growth, not just as supporters but as active contributors to your success. He describes his approach to leadership, which involves nurturing and challenging those around him to reach their full potential.

Barrett explains how his focus has shifted from just fitness to a broader view of personal development. He finds immense satisfaction in witnessing the growth of his team members, such as his integrator George and client-turned-coach Kathryn Robuck. Barrett's approach to leadership is rooted in the belief that the true reward comes from developing others and watching them achieve their goals. He highlights the concept of “Dunbar’s Law” and how empowering a small circle of individuals can create a ripple effect of positive change.

Key actionable advice from this episode includes:

A notable moment from the episode is when Barrett discusses his philosophy on leadership:

"The future you is the best freaking project you're ever going to work on."

This quote encapsulates Barrett’s belief in the transformative power of investing in personal growth. It signifies the importance of viewing leadership as a continuous journey of self-improvement and self-discovery, rather than a destination.

Barrett Henson’s conversation with Rich Lohman is a compelling reminder that effective leadership goes beyond personal success—it’s about fostering growth in others and finding purpose in their achievements. As you reflect on this episode, consider how you can apply these insights to your own leadership journey. Embrace the challenges, build a supportive network, and focus on nurturing the potential within your team.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your leadership skills. Share this episode with someone who could benefit from these insights, and join the conversation on how to turn potential into purpose.

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Thank you for tuning in to the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab. We hope you found today’s episode both inspiring and actionable. See you next time for more insights into the world of leadership and personal development!

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Podcast editing, production, and voice-overs provided by voice-over artist and audiobook narrator, Erik Smelser

In this compelling episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab, Rich Lohman sits down with leadership expert and Project 12:02 collaborator, Dave Rudin. Dave is a John Maxwell certified leadership speaker, coach and trainer and the owner of Advanced Leadership. In today’s episode, Rich and Dave explore the transformative journey from feeling overwhelmed by leadership concepts to mastering practical and impactful strategies. As Dave recounts his evolution from absorbing every leadership book and story to developing a clear framework and becoming a coach, listeners are provided with actionable insights to streamline their leadership development. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt lost in the sea of leadership advice and is seeking a structured path to growth.

Summary of Main Topics Discussed:

A particularly powerful moment occurs when Dave discusses the realization that despite all his knowledge and experience, he still feels there is so much more to learn. Rich highlights this by noting, “The more I learn, the more I realize, I don’t know. The more I need to learn, but it’s been a fun journey.” This exchange captures the essence of continuous growth and the importance of humility in leadership.

Conclusion: This episode of Project 12:02 Leadership Lab provides invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of leadership development. Dave Rudin’s journey from feeling overwhelmed to creating a structured framework offers a clear path for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills. The discussion on consistency, discipline, and the vital role of coaching presents actionable strategies that can lead to meaningful personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this chance to gain clarity and direction in your leadership journey—listen to this episode and take the next step towards mastering your leadership potential.

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Engage with the episode, reflect on the insights shared, and take action towards a more organized and impactful leadership journey.

In this insightful episode of we dive deep into the complexities of leadership in a rapidly evolving workplace environment. As Baby Boomers retire and Millennials and Gen Z take on more significant roles, leaders and organizations face unprecedented challenges. This episode explores the importance of understanding these generational dynamics and provides practical strategies to bridge the gap between different age groups. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an emerging one, this conversation offers valuable insights on how to adapt your leadership style to foster growth, connection, and success across all generations.

Summary of Topics Discussed:

Poignant Exchange:
In a particularly powerful moment, one of the guests reflects on their personal journey of self-discovery and the realization of how past failures have shaped their leadership style:

Rich Lohman: “When I was 35, I realized I was tired of making the same mistakes. I had to slow down and ask myself, ‘Who or what will this negatively impact tomorrow?’ That question has been a safeguard for me ever since.”

This exchange is poignant because it highlights the importance of self-reflection and intentionality in leadership—qualities that are essential for navigating the challenges of a multigenerational workforce.

Conclusion:
As the workplace continues to evolve, so must our approach to leadership. This episode offers a wealth of insights into how leaders can adapt to the generational shift occurring in organizations today. By understanding the unique needs and expectations of different age groups, embracing flexibility, and fostering open communication, leaders can create a more cohesive and productive work environment. Whether you’re dealing with the challenges of leading a multigenerational team or simply looking to refine your leadership skills, this episode provides actionable advice and inspiring stories to guide you on your journey.

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In this inspiring episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohman engages in a captivating conversation with Melissa Myers and Holleigh Swanson. Melissa is a #1 bestselling author and successful entrepreneur in the financial services industry, while Holleigh has transitioned from a factory worker to a bestselling author and valued member of Melissa's team. Together, they share their personal journeys of growth, highlighting the transformative power of continuous learning, self-awareness, and embracing leadership at every level.

Summary of Main Topics:

Poignant Exchange:

Rich, Melissa, and Holleigh discuss the significance of continuous learning and taking action on acquired knowledge. This exchange captures the essence of their growth mindset:

Rich Lohman: "...you're going to go back through it and you're going to take out the nuggets and you're going to go teach it, you're going to go apply it..."

Melissa Myers: "You teach it. You learn it."

This exchange highlights the transformative power of not just consuming information but actively applying it and sharing it with others. It underscores the importance of continuous learning and development as a cornerstone of effective leadership.

Conclusion:

This episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab offers a refreshing and inspiring perspective on leadership. Melissa Myers and Holleigh Swanson demonstrate that leadership is not about reaching a destination but about embarking on a continuous journey of growth, self-discovery, and empowering others. Their stories remind us that leadership can be found in any role, and that with the right mindset and commitment to personal development, anyone can become an influential and impactful leader.

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Editing and production of this episode by voice-over artist and audiobook narrator, Erik Smelser.