Welcome to The Rocky Garza Show! Today, I’m joined by Vince Kelly, Vice President of Operations at Turns and a long-time friend. Vince has a unique career path that’s positioned him next to influential leaders and founders, giving him unparalleled insights into leadership, culture, and organizational dynamics. In this episode, we explore what defines culture, the importance of curiosity, and how to bridge vision and execution for meaningful results.

Vince Kelly's Career Journey

Vince’s journey has always been centered around leadership and execution. Starting with internships and growing into a VP role, he has consistently found himself bridging the gap between visionary leaders and operational teams. His ability to ask impactful questions and create resonance has shaped his success and the success of those around him.

Culture, Execution, and Results

Vince challenges the notion of culture as an isolated concept, emphasizing instead that “culture is what you tolerate.” Culture, execution, and results are interconnected. Accountability, transparency, and preparedness are values that permeate both work and interpersonal dynamics, creating a culture where everyone thrives. True culture is defined not by perks or policies but by everyday actions and standards.

Leadership Insights and Challenges

Leadership, according to Vince, is about influence, not hierarchy. By being curious and asking questions that explore possibilities rather than point blame, leaders can align their teams around a shared vision. This approach not only builds trust but also creates a psychologically safe environment where teams feel empowered to contribute.

Bridging Vision and Execution

One of Vince’s standout skills is acting as a bridge between visionary leaders and operational teams. He believes that curiosity is the key to aligning big-picture ideas with actionable steps. Whether in a small business or a large organization, clarity and communication are essential to connect people to their purpose.

Key Takeaways

• Culture is What You Tolerate: True culture isn’t about perks—it’s about the behaviours you allow and the standards you uphold.
• Curiosity Bridges Gaps: Asking thoughtful questions can align vision with execution.
• Accountability and Transparency: These values are crucial for creating a thriving culture.
• Leadership is Influence: Regardless of your title, your actions define the culture around you.

Key Quotes

• "Culture is what you tolerate."
• "Curiosity drives alignment and possibility."
• "You’re always creating culture, intentionally or not."

Resources Mentioned

• Follow Vince on LinkedIn for insights on leadership and culture: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vince-kelly-151600a2/ 
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockygarza 
• Join my upcoming free LIVE workshop: https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Key Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:09 Vince Kelly's Career Journey

03:18 Leadership Insights and Challenges

05:20 Bridging Vision and Execution

08:17 Navigating Organizational Dynamics

17:40 Culture, Execution, and Results

25:35 Final Thoughts and Farewell

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2025. As we step into this new year, the popular phrase "New Year, New You" is everywhere. But today, I want to challenge that idea. You don’t need to reinvent yourself or become someone completely new. Instead, let’s focus on rediscovering and refining who you already are. You’re not broken, and you don’t need fixing—what you need is clarity.

Challenging the 'New Year, New You' Mentality

The idea of a "new you" often assumes that who you are now isn’t enough. This mindset can lead to burnout as you chase external expectations. Growth is important, but it should come from a place of rediscovery, not reinvention. This year, let’s refine and build on what’s already great about you.

The EPS Matrix: A Tool for Self-Reflection

At the start of every quarter, I use the EPS Matrix, a reflection tool designed to assess how you see yourself in relation to your life, others, and the actions you take. It’s not about becoming someone new—it’s about refining and continuing the journey toward alignment and confidence.

Reflecting on Your Successes

Take a moment to think about three things you crushed last year. Why were these successes meaningful? What attributes about yourself made them possible? By understanding and embracing these wins, you can build on them moving forward. Growth starts with recognizing what already works and aligning your actions with who you are.

The Importance of Clarity

Clarity is the key to being understood. Often, when we feel misunderstood, it’s not because others lack the ability to understand us—it’s because we fail to communicate effectively. When we gain clarity, we can describe who we are in a way that others can grasp. This leads to belonging, confidence, and greater results.

Key Takeaways

• You’re Not Broken: Growth comes from refining who you are, not replacing yourself.
• Reflection Over Reinvention: Assess your wins and learn from them instead of trying to overhaul your life.
• Clarity is Everything: Understand and articulate who you are to feel more aligned and confident.
• Celebrate Progress: Focus on the small steps that lead to greater alignment, intentionality, and fulfilment.

Key Quotes

• "You don’t need a new you. What you need is clarity."
• "The most powerful version of you already exists."
• "It’s not about reinventing; it’s about rediscovering and refining."
• "Clarity allows us to communicate who we are in a way that’s understandable."

Resources Mentioned

• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockygarza 
• Join my upcoming free LIVE workshop: https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Key Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to 2025: Embrace the New Year

00:26 Challenging the 'New Year, New You' Mentality

02:30 The EPS Matrix: A Tool for Self-Reflection

05:01 Reflecting on Your Successes

06:54 The Importance of Clarity

07:14 A New Year with the Same You

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

The holiday season often brings a sense of urgency to focus on gratitude, but it’s not always easy, is it? Life can feel overwhelming, messy, and far from perfect. Today, I want to explore a different perspective on gratitude. What if it’s not about ignoring the challenges but embracing the tension? Gratitude isn’t one-dimensional—it’s about holding two truths at once: life is hard and beautiful. Let’s dive in together.

The Concept of 'And'

Gratitude is often misunderstood as choosing to only focus on the positive. But real gratitude doesn’t require us to deny the difficulties. Instead, it lives in the tension of the “and.” Life isn’t just one thing or the other—it’s both. You can experience joy and grief, progress and setbacks, beauty and difficulty, all at the same time. Living in the “and” gives us a deeper appreciation for the complexity of life.

Real-Life Applications of Gratitude

In my own life, I see this tension every day. Parenting is exhausting and one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. Marriage is deeply fulfilling and a lot of work. Work can be overwhelming, but it also brings moments of meaning and connection. Gratitude invites us to see these layers, not as contradictions but as a fuller picture of life.

Navigating Holiday Challenges

The holidays can magnify this tension. For some, it’s a season of firsts—a new family member, a fresh start. For others, it’s a season of grief, change, or solitude. Gratitude doesn’t mean glossing over these realities. Instead, it means acknowledging the complexity. It’s okay to feel joy and sadness simultaneously. It’s okay to set boundaries with family while also cherishing moments with them. Gratitude gives us the courage to embrace it all.

Key Takeaways

1. Gratitude Lives in the Tension: Life is both hard and beautiful, and gratitude exists in that complexity.
2. Acknowledge the Fullness of Life: Recognize the messy and the amazing—it’s all part of the journey.
3. Find Gratitude in the Present: Gratitude doesn’t require perfection; it requires presence.
4. Daily Reflection Matters: Take a moment to ask yourself what was challenging and what was wonderful—both deserve acknowledgement.

Key Quotes

• “Gratitude doesn’t cancel out pain; it helps us see the bigger picture.”
• “Life is both hard and beautiful—sometimes in the same moment.”
• “Gratitude thrives when we hold the tension of the ‘and.’”
• “This is messy and beautiful, and I’m grateful for all of it.”

Resources Mentioned

• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockygarza 
• Join my upcoming free LIVE workshop: https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess
• 
  

As we move through this holiday season, I encourage you to let go of the need for perfection and embrace the “and.” Life is messy and beautiful. It’s overwhelming and rewarding. Gratitude doesn’t erase the challenges—it helps us see the fullness of life. This season, take time to reflect on the hard and the beautiful moments and let gratitude grow in the tension of it all. Remember, it’s not about making everything perfect—it’s about being present. Merry Christmas, and I hope you find the gratitude in all of it. Let’s keep going.

Key Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Holiday Gratitude

00:52 The Concept of 'And' in Gratitude

02:19 Gratitude in Life's Tensions

03:02 Real-Life Applications of Gratitude

05:34 Navigating Holiday Challenges

07:26 Final Thoughts on Gratitude

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this episode of The Rocky Garza Show, I sit down with John Wetmore to unpack his philosophy of Do More Now, Get Better Later. Together, we explore how focusing on action, rather than perfection, can unlock transformative growth in both your personal and professional life. Whether you’re stuck in analysis paralysis or just waiting for the “perfect” time to start, this conversation will challenge you to stop overthinking and start moving.

John Wetmore is one of the most driven individuals I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. He’s built an incredible career in the insurance industry by embracing a mindset that prioritizes consistent effort over perfect execution. John is a $200 million insurance agency owner, professional business coach and speaker, best-selling author and host of insurance insiders podcast. From overcoming financial struggles and negativity to becoming a leader who inspires others, John’s journey is proof that change starts with taking action—even when it feels messy.

When I first met John, I was immediately drawn to his authenticity and the way he spoke about his journey. He’s someone who doesn’t shy away from sharing the raw truth about where he’s been and what it took to get where he is today. John grew up broke, had his first child at 16, and faced countless challenges along the way. But what stands out most is his relentless drive to create a better life for himself and his family.

Overcoming Negativity and Embracing Mentorship

John shared how he used to wake up wired for negativity—it was just his default setting. But through honest feedback from mentors and support from his wife, he began to see that he was the problem. More importantly, he realized that because he was the problem, he could also be the solution. That mindset shift, paired with guidance from people who cared about him, helped him start transforming his life.

The Alimony Letter: A Turning Point

One of the most powerful moments John shared was receiving a letter about overdue alimony payments. That letter could have crushed him, but instead, it became a turning point. It made him realize he was letting small frustrations control his life. In that moment, he made the decision to let go of perfectionism and focus on activity. That single decision changed everything.

The Do More Philosophy

John’s philosophy of Do More Now, Get Better Later resonated deeply with me. It’s such a simple idea: start where you are, do the work, and worry about refining the process later. For John, this mindset led to a breakthrough year in which he tripled his effort, stopped overthinking, and finally saw the results he wanted.

Lessons from Baseball: Swing the Bat

John shared a story about his son’s baseball practice that perfectly illustrates his philosophy. The coach told the kids to swing the bat as hard as they could, without worrying about whether they hit the ball. The goal was to build strength, not perfection. That’s exactly what John preaches: focus on the effort, not the outcome. If you’re not swinging, you’re not even in the game.

Key Takeaways

1. Stop Waiting for Perfect: You don’t need all the answers to start. Take the first step, and the clarity will come.
2. Embrace Mistakes: Failure is part of the process. Every mistake teaches you something.
3. Own Your Mindset: Recognize when your thinking is holding you back, and commit to changing it.
4. Take Action Now: Activity leads to momentum. The more you do, the more progress you’ll make.

Key Quotes

• "You can't perfect the activity unless you're willing to begin it."
• "I decided I was done worrying about getting everything perfect—I just went to work."
• "Stop worrying about the results; swing the bat. You’ll never hit the ball if you don’t take the swing."
• "Progress doesn’t happen in your comfort zone—it starts when you take action, no matter how small."

John’s story reminds us that success isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being willing to take the first step, even when it feels messy or uncertain. Whether you’re trying to grow your business, improve your relationships, or simply get unstuck, the key is to do more now. Don’t wait. Don’t overthink. Just swing the bat and trust that you’ll get better along the way.

Key Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Meeting at 8 Percent

01:33 My First Impressions of John and His Background

02:34 John’s Journey to Overcome Negativity

04:52 How Mentorship Helped John Grow

13:00 John’s Career in Insurance and Early Challenges

16:54 The Alimony Letter That Changed Everything

18:15 Embracing Action Over Perfection

20:09 The Power of Doing More Now

21:49 Why Perfectionism Keeps You Stuck

24:07 Taking the First Step: Lessons from Baseball

27:18 Final Reflections and Key Lessons

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this deeply reflective episode, I explore the identity crisis of success—why winning, titles, and achievements alone often leave us feeling empty. Sharing personal stories and coaching insights, I unpack the lies we believe about success and self-worth. Together, we’ll discover how to realign decisions with our core values, embrace who we are at our truest selves, and redefine success to be about becoming rather than just achieving.

Key TakeawaysThe Lies of Success

Your worth is tied to your results: False.

If I slow down, I’ll fall behind: False.

People only value me for what I produce: False.

The Role of Identity Mapping

Success often brings an identity crisis when we tie our worth solely to accomplishments.

Identity mapping helps us define who we are at our core and build a life aligned with those truths.

Success Isn’t Transactional

True value isn’t based on transactions or metrics but on connection and purpose.

Key Purpose Indicators (KPIs)

Beyond key performance indicators, we must define our personal Key Purpose Indicators—the metrics that reflect what truly matters to us.

Practical Steps to Align with Core Values

Reflect daily on decisions: Are they aligned with who you want to be?

Ask: What do I think about most?

Break down your thoughts to uncover core truths.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

The Empty Pursuit of Approval: Early in life, I believed achieving more would make me like myself more. But winning without alignment leaves us empty.

Coaching and Leadership Lessons

A coaching client found clarity through identity mapping, moving from feeling lost to embracing their unique self, both personally and professionally.

Small Steps for Big Change

Realign one decision each week with your true self.

Key Quotes

• “Winning isn’t enough if you’re losing yourself along the way.”
• “Your worth isn’t transactional—it’s inherent.”
• “True success is not about what you achieve; it’s about who you’re becoming all along the way.”
• “Ask yourself: Does this decision align with who I want to be or just with what I think others expect of me?”
• 
  

Resources Mentioned

• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockygarza/ 
• Join my upcoming free live online event: https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess 

Final Thoughts

Success is a journey of becoming, not a destination. Align your actions and decisions with your values and who you want to be, rather than chasing what you think will earn approval. Your worth is not in your achievements but in your authenticity.

Key Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction: The Emptiness of Winning

00:37 Personal Journey: Chasing Approval Through Achievement

01:26 The Lies About Success and Self-Worth

02:57 Feelings and Their Impact on Our Actions

03:30 Finding Peace and Purpose Beyond Achievements

06:56 The Concept of Identity Mapping

10:00 Practical Steps to Align Decisions with Core Values

10:40 Conclusion: True Success and Personal Growth

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this enlightening episode, I sit down with Amy Somerville, CEO of Success Enterprises, to explore the intersections of personal growth, professional development, and leadership. We discuss the role of fear, the power of leading with love, and the importance of creating meaningful impact in both work and family life. Amy’s vulnerability and insights make this conversation deeply inspiring and actionable for leaders striving to balance success with purpose.

Guest Introduction

Amy Somerville is the Chief Executive Officer of SUCCESS Enterprises, a multi-platform media company that includes the iconic SUCCESS Magazine, SUCCESS Coaching, and SUCCESS.com.

Amy is a mission-driven leader with demonstrated success in developing highly effective teams, delivering dynamic learning strategies, and building engaged communities. Prior to joining SUCCESS, she was Vice President of Professional Development and Industry Engagement at Buffini & Company and the Founder of Moment of Clarity, LLC. In her previous role as an executive with RE/MAX, LLC, she led Professional Development, Technology Engagement, Multi-Media Production, and Education.

Amy is recognized as a go-to, high-energy speaker, panelist, and facilitator having shared the stage with people like Jay Leno, Wayne Brady, Brian Buffini, and many industry leaders while delivering value to audiences exceeding 7,000.

She is a master of client engagement who responds to challenges with confidence, determination, and focus. She is also a passionate community-builder, gathering like-minded, successful entrepreneurs and businesspeople to share best practices for success.

Amy earned a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Technical Communications at Colorado State University, did MBA coursework at the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Business, and completed an Executive Development Program at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She has served on several curriculum and education advisory boards and is a passionate contributor to The Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Amy and her college sweetheart, Lance, are proud parents of two tween daughters and regularly celebrate their “executive management leadership skills.” Amy loves spending time with family and friends and finds pure joy in cooking, hosting, and playing outdoors.

Amy lives her life intentionally and is driven daily by the acronym L.I.V.E.: LEAD, INSPIRE, VALUE, EMPATHIZE.

Key TakeawaysThe Role of Fear in Leadership

Fear often drives defensive actions, leading to a reactionary mindset. By confronting fear and choosing love instead, we can foster proactive, intentional leadership.

Love as a Leadership Practice

Leading with love involves gratitude, acknowledgment, and celebration. It shifts focus from self-protection to creating connection and driving growth.

Vulnerability is Strength

Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s the foundation of growth. By admitting what we don’t know and embracing transparency, we create trust and authenticity.

Balancing Personal and Professional Life

Life and work are interconnected. Recognizing the tensions and reflecting on priorities can help us navigate seasons of growth in both realms.

Legacy: What You Leave In, Not For

True impact lies in what you instill in others—not just what you leave behind.

Key Quotes

• “Fear or love—you get to choose. Your choice shapes your actions and the impact you have on others.”
• “Stop trying to separate life and work; they exist together. Lead with purpose in both.”
• “Legacy isn’t what you leave for people—it’s what you leave in them.”
• “When you lead with vulnerability, you allow others to trust, connect, and grow with you.”
• 
  

Overcoming Fear

Amy shares how fear once limited her confidence, particularly with public speaking. By confronting those fears and choosing growth, she transformed her challenges into strengths.

Love Over Fear in Action

Amy provides a recent example of preparing for a high-stakes board meeting. Shifting her mindset from fear-driven defensiveness to love-driven gratitude changed the tone and outcome of her presentation.

The Value of Reflection

Regular self-assessment helps leaders identify areas of growth, recalibrate priorities, and align intentions with impact.

Parenting Lessons in Leadership

Amy reflects on how parenting has taught her valuable lessons about patience, presence, and the importance of instilling confidence in others—lessons she carries into her leadership.

Final Thoughts

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about asking the right questions. By focusing on what we’re leaving in others rather than what we’re leaving for them, we can create a meaningful legacy. Balancing life and work isn’t about achieving perfect harmony but rather navigating the tension with intention and love.

Resources Mentioned

• Amy’s Website: https://www.success.com/amy 
• Follow Amy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somerville_amym 
• Follow Amy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymsomerville 
• Follow Amy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.coonssomerville 
• Join my upcoming free live online event: https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess 

Key Time Stamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
• 01:44 Discussing the Role of Fear
• 03:15 Choosing Love Over Fear
• 04:26 Public Speaking Challenges
• 05:57 Practical Applications of Love in Leadership
• 10:23 The Importance of Vulnerability
• 15:22 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
• 21:46 Reflecting on Impact and Intent
• 23:49 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this episode, I dive into the art of rebuilding from burnout, focusing on how leaders can craft sustainable models for their personal lives and businesses. Through a compelling conversation with Zillow’s Chief People Officer and insights drawn from years of working with leaders and organizations, I offer a roadmap for achieving scalability without sacrificing sustainability.

Key Takeaways
Sustainability Is Not Stagnation

Building sustainable practices isn’t about settling; it’s about creating the capacity to grow without burnout.

The Scalability Equation

Repeatability is a prerequisite for scalability. If your methods aren’t sustainable or repeatable, they won’t scale effectively.

The Mirror vs. the Window

Stop looking outward at others for benchmarks. Instead, reflect inward to align your leadership and life with what truly matters to you.

Personal Sustainability

Your leadership, work habits, and personal life must be sustainable. From your work hours to self-care routines, the goal is long-term consistency.

Key Quotes

• “If your life is not sustainable and your business is not sustainable, your leadership style is not going to be sustainable either.”
• “Stop spending so much time looking out the window at what others are doing and spend more time in the mirror reflecting on what’s true for you.”
• “Nothing you do is scalable until it’s repeatable, and that starts with sustainability.”
• “If you don’t pause to assess where you are, you’ll end up chasing goals that were never meant for you.”

Insights from the Episode
Zillow’s Leadership Example

Zillow, a multi-billion-dollar company, demonstrates the power of modeling sustainable practices from the top. Its leadership prioritizes work-life balance, showing that scalability doesn’t have to come at the cost of burnout.

Reflecting on Leadership

Using tools like the influence appraisal and EPS matrix, I discuss how leaders can assess their leadership costs and evaluate whether their methods are sustainable for long-term success.

Holding the Tension Between Growth and Sustainability

Drawing from Zillow’s strategy, I emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between the drive for growth and the need for stability.

Final Thoughts

Rebuilding from burnout requires courage and intentionality. It’s about stepping back, reflecting on what’s sustainable, and realigning your practices to serve your long-term goals. Leadership isn’t just about success metrics—it’s about building a life and business that deeply reflect your values and purpose.

Resources Mentioned

• rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess: Learn more about upcoming events and resources to help you craft a deeply meaningful life and impactful career.
• Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockygarza 

Key Time Stamps

• 00:00 Introduction: Sustainability vs. Stagnation
• 00:42 Welcome to the Rocky Garza Show
• 01:24 Rebuilding from Burnout
• 02:03 Zillow's Cloud-Based HQ: A Case Study
• 05:11 Crafting a Sustainable Leadership Model
• 07:45 Personal Sustainability and Leadership
• 11:11 Reflect and Assess Your Leadership
• 11:55 Conclusion: Pursue Purposeful Goals

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this episode, I’m joined by guest Deanna Privette, a life insurance agent and financial coach who shares the unexpected insights she gained from pursuing a $100,000 target premium in a single month. Deanna and I dive deep into the lessons she learned along the way, including the importance of balancing ambition with personal values and why she ultimately realized that hitting a high revenue goal wasn’t aligned with her true purpose. We explore how to set goals that honor the life you actually want while staying true to the people and values that matter most.

Key Quotes

• "Started out chasing a dream life. Turns out I was already living it."
• "Are you trying to build something you don’t want at the cost of what you already love?"

Meet Deanna Privette

Deanna is a dedicated life insurance agent/financial coach who specializes in tax-free retirement strategies through cash value life insurance. With a holistic approach, Deanna always puts clients first, focusing on their immediate needs and long-term security. As a lifelong partner in their financial journey, Deanna is committed to providing personalized solutions that ensure financial stability both now and in the future. In addition to helping clients, she has a passion for teaching other agents how to provide the same level of expertise and care, empowering them to build long-term relationships with their clients.

Deanna's Challenge: A $100,000 Goal

When Deanna set out to write $100,000 in target premium for August, it was no small feat—her best month previously had been around $50,000. She took on this ambitious challenge to create momentum, build new systems, and inspire other agents with what was possible.

The Journey: Overcoming Obstacles and Realizations

In the beginning, everything seemed to be going well, but as the month progressed, Deanna started to feel the strain. She quickly realized that the pursuit of this goal was taking her away from the things she truly valued—time with family, thorough client connections, and quality over quantity. By pushing herself to such a high target, she risked losing some of what made her life meaningful in the first place.

Lessons Learned

Journaling and self-reflection helped Deanna see that she was already living a dream life. While financial success is important, she discovered it’s not worth sacrificing personal values or relationships. This journey taught her to evaluate goals and achievements through a lens of what truly matters.

Balancing Goals and Personal Values

As Deanna pursued this ambitious goal, she found that her true joy came from building meaningful connections and spending quality time with loved ones—not just hitting numbers. She came to appreciate that sometimes we chase big goals without fully realizing that we may already have what we’re looking for.

Advice for Aspiring Achievers

For those who feel they need big financial milestones to gain credibility or attract followers, Deanna recommends going for it—but with intention. Take on a challenging goal to see if it aligns with what you truly want. Whether or not you reach it, the journey will provide clarity and direction for what genuinely fulfills you.

The Importance of Family and Friends

At the end of the day, Deanna highlights that family and close relationships are her true measure of success. The experience reminded her to stay grounded and recognize the value of the life she has, even while striving for growth.

Final Thoughts

Deanna’s journey is a powerful reminder that success isn’t only about revenue—it’s about building a life that feels authentic and aligned with your values. I encourage listeners to reflect on their own goals and ask themselves if they’re building something they genuinely want or just chasing numbers.

Resources Mentioned

• Book Your Complimentary Call with Deanna here
• Follow Deanna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deanna.privette 
• Follow Deanna on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deanna.privette 
• Follow Deanna on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deanna.c.privette/
• My Website: Rocky Garza
• Register for My Upcoming Virtual Event: rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Key Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to the Rocky Garza Show

00:20 Meet Deanna: Life Insurance Agent and Financial Coach

02:25 Deanna's Challenge: Writing $100,000 in Target Premium

04:10 The Journey: Overcoming Obstacles and Realizations

06:53 Reflecting on Success and Lessons Learned

08:27 The Importance of Repeatable Systems in Business

10:02 Balancing Goals and Personal Values

14:34 The True Cost of Achieving Financial Goals

15:09 Realizing the True Goal

16:38 The Impact of Public Goals

17:39 Reflecting on Personal Values

18:36 Balancing Ambition and Contentment

22:32 Advice for Aspiring Achievers

27:30 The Importance of Family and Friends

29:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this episode, I explore the power of vulnerability as a critical tool for personal growth and effective leadership. Often misunderstood as mere disclosure, true vulnerability is about creating genuine opportunities for connection and growth. I discuss how leaders can leverage vulnerability to build trust within their teams, scale their businesses, and unlock their fullest potential. Vulnerability isn’t about weakness; it’s about strength, openness, and the courage to be seen.

Key Quotes

• "Are you viewing vulnerability as simply the exposure of your weakness, or are you seeing it as your greatest opportunity for growth?"
• "Vulnerability is creating the opportunity to see and be seen by others."
• "True leadership is not just about telling; it’s about creating experiences of connection."

Defining Vulnerability in Leadership

Many leaders mistake vulnerability for disclosure, equating openness with weakness. I introduce a working definition of vulnerability: creating the opportunity to see and be seen by others. This perspective shifts vulnerability from being about simply “sharing” to building intentional connections that foster trust and growth within a team or organization.

Creating Opportunities for Vulnerability

Leaders often face challenges when it comes to fostering vulnerability. Telling someone to be vulnerable rarely works; instead, leaders need to create experiences where team members feel safe to open up. I emphasize that vulnerability requires both proximity and an invitation—making space for others to see and be seen.

Scaling Your Business with Vulnerability

Many CEOs and founders face a common challenge: wanting to scale their business while keeping control. But true scalability requires repeatability, and that demands trust and vulnerability. Leaders must acknowledge where they excel and where they need help. By allowing others to step into roles, leaders can create a repeatable system, enabling their business to grow sustainably.

Real-Life Example: The Insurance Business

I share a success story from a client in the insurance industry who transformed her approach to leadership by embracing vulnerability. Through our work together, she was able to see her team members for who they are, allow them to step up, and recognize her own strengths and limitations. As a result, her business saw increased revenue in just nine weeks—a powerful testament to the vulnerability advantage.

Self-Reflection and Vulnerability

I encourage you to ask yourself whether you’re leading with true vulnerability or simply disclosing information without depth. Are you creating genuine connections, or are you just sharing content? This reflection is crucial for leaders who wish to inspire loyalty and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Vulnerability isn’t about exposing your weaknesses; it’s about using your strengths to foster connection and growth. By embracing the vulnerability advantage, you’re not only building stronger teams but also unlocking your own potential as a leader. Ask yourself today: Are you ready to see vulnerability as your greatest opportunity for growth?

Resources Mentioned

• My Website: Rocky Garza
• Join my Upcoming Virtual Event: rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Key Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction to Vulnerability

00:36 Welcome to the Rocky Garza Show

01:24 The Vulnerability Advantage

02:52 Defining Vulnerability

04:05 Creating Opportunities for Vulnerability

05:07 Vulnerability in Leadership

07:12 Scaling Your Business with Vulnerability

08:55 Real-Life Example: The Insurance Business

10:30 Self-Reflection and Vulnerability

15:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations

In this episode, I dive into some of the most meaningful questions from our Tell Me About That card deck—a set of 50 questions designed to spark curiosity and foster deeper connections. Today, I answer a few of these questions myself, reflecting on the people who raised me, my natural instincts in challenging situations, and the personal gifts I value most. This episode offers a unique opportunity to get to know me on a more personal level, while also inspiring you to consider your own answers to these powerful questions.

Key Quotes

• "I owe an immense amount of gratitude to the collective of people who raised me."
• "One of my greatest gifts is the ability to create a space where others feel comfortable being vulnerable, even in high-stakes environments."
• "The path to connection is not in perfection but in the willingness to share and listen."

The People Who Raised Me

In the first question, I reflect on the many people who contributed to raising me—my mom, grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors, and family friends. Their willingness to invite me into their lives taught me values that have shaped who I am today. I share memories and gratitude for their love and resilience, each one playing a unique role in my life.

Introducing 'Tell Me About That'

I introduce the Tell Me About That deck, a card game designed to encourage meaningful conversations. With 50 thoughtfully crafted questions, this tool is perfect for family gatherings, team-building activities, or simply connecting more deeply with those around you. I use it to answer questions about myself and offer a glimpse into my story.

Fight, Flight, or Freeze?

One question I answer is about my default reaction in high-pressure situations. My natural instinct, I’ve discovered, is to "fight." Whether it’s jumping into action in an emergency or standing up for others, this response has been a consistent part of who I am. I reflect on how this instinct impacts my personal and professional life.

What I Think About Most

Another question prompts me to consider what occupies my thoughts most of the time. For me, it’s about being fully present. I work hard to stay focused on the moment at hand, something I see as essential for building authentic connections and living intentionally.

Exploring Personal Gifts and Vulnerability

Lastly, I explore one of my core gifts: creating an environment where people feel safe to be vulnerable. I’ve seen this gift in action during high-stakes meetings, workshops, and even podcast interviews. It’s a skill I cherish, as it allows others to put their guard down, share openly, and connect on a deeper level.

Future Plans and 'Tell Me About That'

As we move forward, I’ll continue using Tell Me About That questions to learn more about my guests and bring more personal insights into the show. If you’re interested, you can grab a deck at tellmeaboutthat.com and explore these questions with your own friends, family, or team.

Resources Mentioned

• Tell Me About That Card Deck: https://rockygarza.com/store/p/tell-me-about-that
• My Website: Rocky Garza
• Register for my Upcoming Virtual Event: rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Key Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction: The People Who Raised Me

00:58 Welcome to the Rocky Garza Show

01:40 Introducing Tell Me About That

03:07 Answering Tell Me About That Questions

08:56 Exploring Personal Gifts and Vulnerability

11:06 Conclusion and Future Plans

To join Rocky for his next free virtual event, go to https://rockygarza.com/beyondsuccess

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/trgs/donations