The Strat Show

The Strat Show

By Lee Payton and Sean LyonsBusinessEntrepreneurship
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The Strat Show episodes

  • #014 - How Hyper-Growth Almost Ruined Us & Cultivating Employee Loyalty

    The messiness of failing and what it taught us: how to deal with clients without losing your sanity, why chasing hyper-growth can be a death wish, and how pricing and handling your team can make or break you.

    It’s all about the human side of business—how feedback matters, why constant improvement isn’t optional, and the real deal behind treating employees like actual people, not just cogs in the machine.


    Takeaways

    -Out of 10 ideas, maybe two actually worked.

    -Trial and error is essential for learning.

    -Some failures can be painful and hard to accept.

    -Hyper growth can lead to neglecting existing clients.

    -Pricing should reflect the value provided.

    -Employees are people first, not just workers.

    -Feedback is crucial for improvement.

    -Don't assume clients will always be understanding.

    -Treating employees with respect fosters loyalty.

    -Continuous improvement is necessary, even if things are working.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Failure Stories

    02:10 Learning from Past Failures

    04:46 Navigating Client Relationships

    07:25 The Dangers of Hyper Growth

    10:26 The Importance of Pricing and Value

    13:33 Managing Employee Expectations

    16:10 The Human Element in Business

    18:56 Feedback and Improvement

    21:35 Conclusion and Future Insights


    32 min
  • #013 - From Mexico’s Beaches to Cambodia’s Nightclubs with Kris Skinner

    Kris Skinner joins us to break down what it’s really like living in Mexico—dealing with hurricanes, navigating residency, and surviving COVID-19. Kris also talks about his leap from England to SE Asia to Mexico while building a career as a social media and marketing account manager.


    Takeaways

    -Living in Mexico offers a unique blend of cultures.

    -Social media marketing has evolved significantly over the years.

    -Adapting to new cultures can be challenging but rewarding.

    -COVID-19 changed the landscape of travel and living abroad.

    -Community support is vital for expats in foreign countries.

    -Legal residency in Mexico can be straightforward with the right guidance.

    -Cultural differences can lead to humorous and challenging experiences.

    -Traveling opens up opportunities for personal growth and new experiences.

    -Finding a balance between work and leisure is essential for a fulfilling life.


    38 min
  • #012 - Holistic Healing, Hypnotherapy, & Escaping Corporate Burnout with Bri Alexandra

    On today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of holistic wellness with our guest, Bri Alexandra. She’s a certified clinical hypnotherapist, Reiki master, and all-around energy healer.

    We’ll talk about how she balances corporate life with her passion for healing, her journey into intuitive work, and what it really takes to break through mental barriers.


    Connect with Bri: https://beacons.ai/millennialifepaths


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Human design offers insights into personal strengths and weaknesses.

    -Skepticism can coexist with a desire to believe in spiritual practices.

    -Investing in quality equipment is important, but starting small is key.

    -Taking immediate action is crucial for personal growth.

    -Building rapport and trust is essential in hypnotherapy.

    -Hypnotherapy can aid in holistic health and wellness.

    -Imagination plays a vital role in manifestation and personal goals.

    -Everyone has intuitive abilities that can be developed.

    -The journey of self-discovery is often sparked by life events.


    Chapters

    03:29 Introduction to Bri Alexandra and Her Diverse Background

    07:22 Exploring Human Design and Its Significance

    11:01 Skepticism and Belief in Spiritual Practices

    12:21 Investing in Quality Equipment vs. Starting Small

    16:09 The Importance of Taking Action Immediately

    17:08 Welcoming Brie Alexandra to the Conversation

    19:06 Understanding Clinical Hypnotherapy and Its Applications

    23:05 The Role of Hypnotherapy in Holistic Health

    26:48 Building Rapport and Trust in Hypnotherapy

    30:40 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Spiritual Growth

    34:38 Bri's Path to Hypnotherapy and Spiritual Work

    40:27 The Intersection of Spirituality and Corporate Life

    44:19 Imagination, Manifestation, and Childlike Energy

    48:04 The Power of Hypnosis in Everyday Life


    53 min
  • #011 - Finding Your “Why” in Business & Life

    Today, we discuss the importance of understanding one's 'why' in business and life. For sustainable success, individuals must connect their passions with their work, particularly in fields like web design and e-commerce. We also talk about the significance of authenticity, the emotional connection with clients, and practical techniques like the 'Five Whys' to uncover deeper motivations.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -You have to find your why for sustainable success.

    -Clients want to know how you can help them achieve their dreams.

    -Authenticity in your passion resonates with clients.

    -E-commerce success relies on genuine passion for products.

    -Understanding the client's goals is crucial for effective marketing.

    -The Five Whys technique helps uncover deeper motivations.

    -Quality of life is a significant factor in career choices.

    -You can turn adjacent interests into lucrative careers.

    -It's important to connect emotionally with clients.

    -Finding your why can simplify decision-making in life.


    Chapters

    00:00 Finding Your Why in Business

    03:02 The Importance of Passion and Authenticity

    05:52 E-commerce and the Role of Passion

    09:08 The Five Whys Technique

    11:56 Quality of Life and Remote Work


    13 min
  • #010 - 10 Days in New York City: What to Do, What to Avoid, & How to Get Around Safely

    Sean takes us through his first-time experience visiting New York City, where the city’s iconic landmarks and chaotic subway system offer both nostalgia and challenges. He breaks down the highs and lows of navigating NYC, shares tips on avoiding tourist traps, and highlights some must-hit food spots. He also talks safety, bucket list planning, and why staying outside Manhattan might be the travel hack you didn’t know you needed.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Navigating New York requires planning due to its size and complexity.

    -Food options in New York can vary greatly in quality and price.

    -Safety in New York is generally good, with some exceptions in the subway.

    -Bucket list experiences should be carefully considered before visiting.

    -Planning ahead for popular attractions is crucial to avoid disappointment.

    -Staying outside of Manhattan can be a strategic choice for travelers.

    -The experience of New York is enhanced by positive energy and attitude.

    -Future travel plans include discussions about other trips and experiences.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    02:19 Sean's First Experience in New York City

    05:36 Navigating New York: Transportation and Planning

    09:53 Experiencing the City: Food and Culture

    13:29 Observations of Safety and Crime in NYC

    16:54 Bucket List Experiences and Missed Opportunities

    22:22 Reflections on the Trip and Future Plans


    28 min
  • #009 - Lee’s 12-day Silent Vipassana Retreat: The Good, The Bad, & The Weird

    Lee shares his experience at a Vipassana silent meditation retreat, where tech is off-limits, conversations are nonexistent, and the only thing you’re left with is yourself. We get into fasting, the unexpected community dynamics, and how 10 days of silence can lead to serious personal growth. This episode is all about what happens when you disconnect to reconnect—with yourself and with the world around you.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Vipassana is a form of meditation focused on awareness and body scanning.

    -The retreat experience includes a strict schedule and noble silence.

    -Participants often struggle with the absence of technology and social interaction.

    -Food during the retreat is vegetarian and low in protein, which can be challenging.

    -Community dynamics can lead to hygiene issues and illness among participants.

    -The retreat encourages deep self-reflection and clarity of thought.

    -Disconnecting from technology can reveal compulsive behaviors.

    -Personal breakthroughs can occur during extended periods of silence and meditation.

    -The experience highlights the importance of real human connection.

    -Retreats can be a valuable way to reset and gain perspective on life.

    40 min
  • #008 - Sean’s Breathwork Retreat, Googling Your Way to Success, & the Mental Traps of Perfectionism

    In today's episode, we get into some technical mishaps, the pros and cons of electric cars, and whether they're really saving the planet. Then, we talk about personal growth at a breathwork retreat in Denver, the mental traps of perfectionism, and why waiting for things to be perfect is a waste of time.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Technical difficulties can feel trivial compared to real problems.

    -Electric cars present both convenience and inconvenience.

    -The environmental impact of electric cars is complex and often overlooked.

    -Denver has experienced significant growth, impacting its culture and lifestyle.

    -Immersive retreats can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.

    -Breath work can facilitate emotional release and healing.

    -Different breathing techniques can yield varied emotional and physical responses.

    -Perfectionism can hinder creativity and progress in business.

    -Taking action is more important than waiting for perfection.

    -Building skills and confidence can start with the resources you already have.


    Chapters

    00:00 Intro

    02:31 Electric Cars: Convenience vs. Inconvenience

    05:41 The Reality of Electric Cars and Environmental Impact

    08:18 Experiencing Denver: Growth and Personal Reflections

    11:00 Retreat Experience: Immersion and Personal Growth

    13:54 Breath Work: A Deep Dive into Emotional Release

    16:52 The Power of Breath Work: Personal Experiences

    19:41 Perfectionism in Creativity and Business

    22:16 The Importance of Taking Action Over Perfection

    25:12 Building Skills and Confidence in Creative Pursuits

    #stratshow

    37 min
  • #007 - Sean’s Kambo Cleanse & Taking Scheduled 'Blowout' Trips for Perspective

    We cover Sean’s combo cleanse and an Uber fiasco in Medellín, then get into why taking time for yourself and detoxing from bad habits matters. We finish up with a no-BS talk about why you need those occasional ‘blowout’ trips to remind yourself why you ditched certain habits.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Traveling can lead to unique experiences and opportunities for personal growth.

    -Holistic medicine and alternative treatments can offer benefits for physical and mental well-being.

    -Double-checking details and maintaining clear communication are important when traveling in unfamiliar places.

    -Having a phone for communication is crucial, especially when traveling with children. Travel experiences can vary greatly depending on the location and personal preferences.

    -Taking time for oneself and having personal space is important for mental and emotional well-being.

    -Detoxing from toxic habits and thoughts is necessary for personal growth and development.

    -Occasional 'blowout' trips can serve as a reminder of the reasons for leaving certain habits behind.


    Chapters

    00:00 Adventures in Travel and Personal Growth

    02:47 Exploring Holistic Medicine and Alternative Treatments

    08:50 The Importance of Clear Communication While Traveling

    17:46 Lessons Learned from a Travel Mishap

    23:06 Contrasting Travel Experiences

    26:14 The Need for Detoxing from Toxic Habits

    32:32 The Benefits of 'Blowout' Trips

    44 min
  • #006 - Medellin, Colombia: The Pros, The Cons, & Things You Won’t See in Brochures

    In this episode, we get into Sean’s extended stay in Medellín, Colombia—covering everything from safety and cost of living to the real scene behind its nightlife. Sean breaks down the perks of affordable housing, reliable internet, and why the city’s infrastructure blows away the stereotypes.


    We get into the expat scene, coworking spaces like Selina, and how the Conscious Co-Working community is making waves. Plus, the unfiltered truth about its nightlife and the sex work industry.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Medellin, Colombia is a safe and clean city with well-maintained infrastructure.

    -The expat community in Medellin is spread out, but efforts are being made to create a centralized community through events and networking.

    -The Conscious Co-Working community aims to provide a space for collaboration, networking, and personal growth.

    -Transportation options in Medellin include Uber, taxis, and public transport, and they are affordable and easily accessible.

    -Living in Medellin is relatively inexpensive, with low costs for transportation, dining, and accommodation. Medellin, Colombia offers affordable housing and a comfortable climate

    -The city has modern infrastructure and a streamlined payment system

    -The Selina co-working space provides a convenient and affordable workspace

    -The internet is reliable and phone plans are cheap

    -There is a lack of community for digital nomads

    -Colombians are not very verbal

    -There is a surplus of apartments due to restrictions on buying property by foreigners

    -The area of Pueblado has a vibrant nightlife scene and a prominent sex work industry


    Chapters

    00:00 Setting up in Medellin

    02:28 Safety, Cleanliness, and Infrastructure

    07:04 Transportation in Medellin

    11:33 Conscious Co-Working Community

    17:28 The Expat Community in Medellin

    22:05 Affordable Living in Medellin

    23:48 Surplus of Apartments and Vibrant Nightlife in Pueblado

    29:28 Restrictions on Residency and Immigration

    32:17 Customs and Immigration Process

    34:47 Using Wise Card and Currency Exchange

    37:34 Sex Work Industry in Medellin

    41:16 Language Differences and Communication

    44:40 Internet and Phone Services


    47 min
  • Remote Work Flexibility vs Burnout, Finding Purpose in Work, & The Impact of Drugs and Alcohol

    Today, we discuss everything from battling food poisoning to finding purpose in our work. We share our personal takes on balancing work and life, avoiding burnout, and why staying mentally and physically in check matters. We hit on how remote work can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how you play it, and how money alone won’t buy happiness. We also get real about being fiscally smart, the risks of overworking, traveling safely, and how drugs and alcohol affect us and society.


    Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow


    Takeaways

    -Food poisoning can happen at any time, even if you've been in a place for a long time.

    -Having a purpose and finding fulfillment in work is important for overall well-being.

    -Work-life balance is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain mental and physical health.

    -Remote work offers flexibility and the opportunity to create a better quality of life.

    -Money is not the sole determinant of happiness, and it's important to prioritize experiences and relationships over material possessions. Being fiscally responsible is important for managing money and avoiding financial stress.

    -Having a flexible work schedule allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to take breaks and relax throughout the day.

    -Overworking and not taking time off can lead to burnout and unhealthy behaviors.

    -Traveling to different countries can be safe as long as precautions are taken and common sense is used.

    -Drugs and alcohol can have detrimental effects on individuals and society, and better support and treatment options are needed.


    Chapters

    00:00 Food Poisoning

    01:36 Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Work

    05:23 The Benefits of Remote Work

    08:55 Money and Quality of Life

    24:57 Work-Life Balance with a Flexible Schedule

    25:27 The Dangers of Overworking and Burning Out

    29:02 The Benefits of a Job with Time Off

    30:07 Travel Safety and Enjoying Different Countries

    31:09 Exploring Colombia and Its Climate

    32:06 Comparing Safety in Different Countries

    33:00 Homelessness and Poverty in Different Countries

    37:08 The Impact of Drugs and Alcohol on Individuals and Society

    40 min

About The Strat Show

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Business & Life Strategies for High-ish Performers