In this episode of "Becoming Bridge Builders," host Keith Haney sits down with Sara Blackmer, a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran turned tech executive. Sara shares her journey from the military to the boardroom, offering insights into servant leadership, innovation, and the importance of empowering teams. Discover how Sara's experiences in the Air Force have shaped her approach to leadership in the tech industry, and learn about her vision for the future of technology and cybersecurity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores the intersection of discipline, strategy, and meaningful impact.

The central theme of today's discussion revolves around the concept articulated in Alan Gregerman's latest publication, "The Wisdom of Ignorance," which posits that embracing ignorance, or what he terms "enlightened ignorance," may serve as a pivotal asset in our rapidly evolving world. This perspective challenges the prevailing notion that expertise is the sole path to innovation, suggesting instead that the absence of preconceived answers can lead to remarkable breakthroughs. Throughout our dialogue, Alan elucidates a six-part framework emphasizing traits such as purpose, curiosity, humility, respect, future focus, and a degree of paranoia, all of which are instrumental in unlocking the latent potential within individuals and organizations. His insights are bolstered by compelling anecdotes and a clear call for leaders to foster environments where curiosity and experimentation are not merely encouraged but celebrated. We invite you to engage with Alan's thought-provoking ideas and reflect on how they might inform your own approach to leadership and innovation.

In this episode, we delve into the transformative ideas presented by Alan Gregerman, whose latest work, 'The Wisdom of Ignorance,' challenges the conventional reverence for expertise. Alan argues that in an era characterized by rapid change, the ability to embrace uncertainty and ask the right questions is paramount. He delineates six essential traits—purpose, humility, curiosity, respect, future focus, and a touch of paranoia—that are instrumental in driving innovation. Each trait is explored in depth, illustrating how they interconnect to foster a culture of creativity and resilience within organizations. The episode is rich in practical insights, drawing on Alan's extensive experience in consulting with various industries, ultimately inspiring listeners to rethink their approach to leadership and innovation.

Takeaways:

• The concept of enlightened ignorance suggests that not knowing can lead to greater innovation.
• Alan Gregerman emphasizes the importance of curiosity in unlocking creative potential and ideas.
• Purpose-driven leadership fosters a sense of belonging and motivation within organizations.
• Organizations often fail to innovate because they rely solely on conventional industry practices.

Links referenced in this episode:

• alangregerman.com

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the profound significance of mentorship and the intricate dynamics of succession planning in leadership. We engage in a thoughtful dialogue with our esteemed guest, Mark, who elucidates the invaluable advice imparted to him by his father: "If you ask, you might get; if you do not ask, you will not get." This principle serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for proactive engagement in seeking opportunities and cultivating relationships. Mark further shares his journey into the realm of process consulting, emphasizing the importance of understanding the delicate interplay between continuity and succession within organizations. The episode culminates in a reflection on the legacy one leaves, underscoring the imperative to foster meaningful connections and invest in the growth of future leaders.

A salient feature of this episode is the in-depth examination of the multifaceted nature of mentorship and the indelible mark it leaves on personal and professional trajectories. The dialogue commences with a thought-provoking inquiry regarding the most impactful advice received by the guests. This question serves as a catalyst for a broader discourse on the essence of seizing opportunities and the inherent risks associated with asking for what one desires. The speaker articulates a profound principle inherited from a paternal figure: action is a precursor to opportunity, whereas inaction breeds missed chances. This maxim sets the tone for a rich exploration of the significance of mentorship, particularly in leadership roles, and the vital relationships that foster growth and development.

As the conversation unfolds, personal anecdotes illuminate the transformative influence of mentorship on one’s career trajectory. A poignant narrative recounts the experiences of the speaker with a mentor who consistently emphasized the potential for greatness within him, thereby illustrating the profound impact that encouragement and belief can have on a young person's self-perception and ambition. This narrative underscores the notion that success is not solely an individual endeavor; rather, it is often a product of communal support and the nurturing of relationships that inspire individuals to reach their fullest potential. The discussion invites listeners to reflect on their roles as mentors and the legacies they aspire to cultivate, thereby reinforcing the idea that investing in others is a vital aspect of leadership.

The latter segments of the episode transition into a discussion about the evolving nature of consulting and leadership, particularly the emergence of process consulting as a distinct and impactful practice. The speaker delineates the core competencies that define effective consulting, which encompass deep listening, collaborative assistance, and a commitment to learning. This exploration not only demystifies the consulting profession but also highlights the relational dynamics that are essential for fostering effective leadership. Ultimately, the discourse serves as a call to action for listeners to consider how they can contribute to the growth and development of others, thereby enriching their own journeys and the journeys of those they mentor.

Takeaways:

• The best advice shared in the podcast underscores the importance of asking questions, as articulated by speaker B, who reflects on the wisdom imparted by his father regarding the opportunities that arise from inquiry.
• Mentorship emerges as a pivotal theme, with speaker B emphasizing the vital role mentors play in shaping one's leadership journey and the significance of providing guidance to others in return.
• A pressing issue discussed pertains to the integration of continuity and succession planning within organizations, highlighting the necessity for a cohesive approach to ensure long-term success.
• Speaker B's narrative illustrates the transition of leadership within a company, showcasing the importance of thoughtful and deliberate succession planning to foster ongoing growth and stability.
• The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of consulting, where emerging trends, such as the influence of artificial intelligence, are reshaping the nature and expectations of consulting relationships.
• Finally, the podcast encourages listeners to consider their own legacy and the lasting impact of their leadership on future generations, emphasizing the importance of nurturing relationships and fostering growth in others.

Links referenced in this episode:

• marklvincent.com
• amazon.com
• barnesandnoble.com

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the concept of "blind blaming," as elucidated by our distinguished guest, Kevin D. St Clergy. Kevin, a breakthrough specialist and the acclaimed author of "Beyond Blind Blaming," challenges listeners to confront the often unseen obstacles that inhibit personal and professional growth. Through his innovative RCD method—Reflect, Connect, Decide—he elucidates how individuals can transcend self-imposed limitations and blame. This episode delves into the psychological frameworks that perpetuate blame and the necessity of external perspectives in fostering genuine transformation. Ultimately, Kevin's insights serve as a clarion call for those entrenched in cycles of blame to embrace clarity and decisiveness as pathways to profound change.

In this episode, we dive deep with Kevin D. St. Clergy, a breakthrough specialist and bestselling author of "Beyond Blind Blaming." Known for his direct and disruptive approach, Kevin shares his journey from a successful entrepreneur to a coach who helps leaders uncover the real problems behind their challenges. Discover Kevin's signature RCD method and blame loop framework, which blend behavioral psychology and personal transformation to spark rapid breakthroughs in mindset, health, relationships, and business. Join us as Kevin reveals how to move beyond blind blaming and make impactful decisions that transform lives.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of reflecting on underlying issues one cannot visibly identify.
• Kevin D. St Clergy's RCD method is a structured approach to overcoming blind blaming effectively.
• Understanding that how one does anything reflects on all other aspects of life is crucial for personal growth.
• The significance of connecting with external perspectives is essential for breaking free from limiting beliefs.

Links referenced in this episode:

• blindblaming.com
• kevindstclerky.com
• ted.com

Our discussion today centers on the remarkable journey of Tommy Kilpatrick, a man who has navigated diverse and transformative experiences throughout his life. Currently residing in the Philippines, he dedicates his efforts to educating farmers on sustainable practices, including constructing bamboo dome structures and cultivating food vertically. Tommy's multifaceted background encompasses a double major in abnormal psychology and accounting, along with roles as an author, teacher, entrepreneur, and spiritual seeker. After a significant life change, he embraced a vow of poverty, which led him to live on farms and walk in faith. Throughout our conversation, Tommy shares profound insights on financial awareness and challenges the conventional notions surrounding debt, inviting us to reconsider our understanding of ownership and financial responsibility.

Takeaways:

• Tommy Kilpatrick, a retired American, now resides in the Philippines and teaches farmers to create sustainable structures using bamboo.
• He has a diverse educational background with degrees in abnormal psychology and accounting, which have influenced his multifaceted career.
• After a significant life change, Tommy embraced a vow of poverty and embarked on a transformative journey towards self-reliance and community empowerment.
• Tommy's mission today focuses on educating individuals about health, healing, and the importance of questioning conventional financial systems.
• He advocates for a critical approach to perceived debts, suggesting that many individuals are victims of systemic fraud by financial institutions.
• The conversation emphasizes the necessity of being skeptical about established norms and encourages listeners to actively seek knowledge and truth in their financial dealings.

Today, we engage with John Odberg, an exemplary figure in leadership, innovation, and impact. As the co-founder of Pricinia Health, John has dedicated his career to transforming the management of type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that significantly affects millions globally. This episode delves into John's extensive journey through entrepreneurship and healthcare innovation, emphasizing how his strategic insights and operational excellence facilitate thriving amidst complexity. We explore the profound implications of his work, which not only aids organizations in navigating change but also empowers individuals grappling with chronic diseases. Through our conversation, we uncover the essential relationship skills and mindset necessary for effective leadership and the pivotal role of patient engagement in achieving health successes.

The dialogue commences with an introduction to John Odberg, a notable leader in healthcare innovation and entrepreneurship. With a career marked by diverse roles—including founder, CEO, and professor—John embodies a wealth of experience that spans various industries. His insights into leadership and strategic management are particularly valuable as he navigates the complexities of organizational growth and conflict resolution. A significant aspect of the conversation centers around Pricinia Health, which he co-founded alongside Dr. Dustin Williams. This organization is dedicated to transforming the management of type 2 diabetes, a chronic disease that has long posed challenges for patients and healthcare providers alike.

John's narrative unfolds as he reflects on his journey through leadership, highlighting a pivotal transition from a transactional approach to one that prioritizes relational dynamics. He discusses the importance of understanding personal connections and emotional intelligence in fostering an environment conducive to peak performance. This introspective analysis reveals the transformative nature of leadership, as John emphasizes the necessity of accountability, trustworthiness, and vulnerability within professional relationships. The conversation also delves into common blind spots in leadership, particularly in first-line management, showcasing the need for a more nuanced understanding of team dynamics and individual motivations.

The episode transitions into an exploration of Pricinia Health's systematic approach to diabetes management, known as the START protocol. John shares compelling success stories from pilot studies, illustrating how personalized care and patient engagement can lead to remarkable health improvements. By focusing on small, incremental changes, the protocol demonstrates that effective chronic disease management is both attainable and sustainable. This conversation not only highlights John's visionary leadership but also serves as an important call to action for a reimagining of healthcare practices. It advocates for a shift toward an empathetic, patient-centered model that prioritizes collaboration and innovation in addressing chronic diseases.

Takeaways:

• The episode features John Odberg, a multifaceted leader known for his innovative approaches to healthcare and chronic disease management.
• John emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions in life, particularly regarding relationships and personal values.
• The discussion reveals how John's career in healthcare led to the founding of Pricinia Health, focusing on transforming type 2 diabetes management.
• Listeners learn about the START protocol, which emphasizes systematic therapeutic alignment and personalized care for patients with chronic diseases.
• John notes the significance of training healthcare providers to meet patients where they are, enhancing their engagement in treatment.
• The episode underscores the goal of affecting a billion lives positively through improved health outcomes and innovative healthcare solutions.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Pricinia Health
• USC

Dr. Debi Silber, a pioneering authority on betrayal and recovery, joins us to share her transformative insights derived from groundbreaking research. As the founder and CEO of the Post Betrayal Transformation (PBT) Institute, she has dedicated her career to understanding the nuances of betrayal and the subsequent healing processes. Dr. Silber's work has unveiled that betrayal constitutes a distinct type of trauma, necessitating a tailored approach to recovery that involves navigating through five predictable stages. Throughout our discourse, she emphasizes the paramount importance of intentional healing, asserting that time alone is insufficient for recovery. Together, we explore the profound implications of her findings and the strategies individuals can use to reclaim their health, relationships, and overall well-being after experiencing betrayal.

Dr. Silber articulates that traditional beliefs, such as the notion that 'time heals all wounds', are fundamentally flawed when it comes to betrayal. Through her extensive research, she highlights alarming statistics from her Post Betrayal Syndrome quiz, revealing that many individuals continue to grapple with the repercussions of betrayal long after the event has passed. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of intentional healing, as merely waiting for time to pass will not suffice. Listeners are encouraged to recognize that healing from betrayal is a deliberate process requiring active engagement and self-reflection, ensuring that individuals do not unwittingly carry the burden of unhealed trauma into future relationships and experiences.

Takeaways:

• Dr. Debi Silber is a pioneer in the field of betrayal recovery and transformation, having founded the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute.
• Through her extensive research, she discovered that betrayal constitutes a distinct type of trauma, fundamentally different from other forms of trauma.
• The process of healing from betrayal can be mapped out in five predictable stages, which individuals must navigate to achieve true transformation.
• Time does not inherently heal all wounds; intentional and deliberate efforts are necessary for recovery from betrayal.
• Dr. Silber's work emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of betrayal on one's self-worth and relationships, necessitating a comprehensive approach to healing.
• The Post-Betrayal Transformation Institute offers a structured program that certifies practitioners to aid individuals dealing with the effects of betrayal, promoting healing and recovery.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thepbtinstitute.com

The principal focus of today's discourse is on the transformative power of mindfulness in leadership, as articulated by our esteemed guest, Singh. With over two decades of experience in enhancing organizational performance and nurturing high-functioning teams, Singh delineates how mindfulness serves as a pivotal tool for leaders navigating the complexities of a high-pressure environment. Through his innovative frameworks, the Ascendancy Action System and the Mindful Leadership Mastery Compass, he elucidates the significance of cultivating presence, clarity, and compassion in leadership practices. Singh's insights are not merely theoretical; they are grounded in practical applications that empower leaders to transcend challenges and unlock their fullest potential. As we engage in this profound conversation, we invite you to reflect on your own leadership journey and consider the pivotal role of mindfulness in fostering resilience and effective communication.

The dialogue with Singh unveils a compelling narrative about the evolution of leadership in the modern era, where the pressures of rapid change and complexity demand a new approach. Singh, a seasoned leader with a wealth of experience, articulates how mindfulness has become a cornerstone of effective leadership. He discusses the detrimental effects of operating on autopilot and the necessity for leaders to cultivate presence in their interactions. This episode delves into Singh's practical methodologies, including the Ascendancy Action System and the Mindful Leadership Mastery Compass, which provide structured approaches for leaders to enhance their effectiveness through mindfulness. Singh emphasizes the importance of intentionality and presence in achieving organizational goals, urging leaders to engage deeply with their teams and foster a culture of mindfulness. The conversation is rich with personal anecdotes and insights, illustrating how mindfulness can not only transform individual leaders but also create a ripple effect throughout organizations. Through Singh's perspective, listeners are encouraged to reconsider their approach to leadership, recognizing that true effectiveness lies in being fully present and engaged.

Links referenced in this episode:

• singleadership.com

In a vibrant and engaging discussion, we dive into the heart of gratitude with Valencia Dantzler. Known for her transformative Fly High Framework, Valencia outlines how she helps high-performing individuals shift their mindset from overwhelm to empowerment. She shares practical insights backed by neuroscience, illustrating how gratitude can serve as a powerful antidote to stress and mental exhaustion. As she recounts her personal journey of recovery from despair, listeners are invited to reflect on their own lives and the importance of resilience. Valencia's infectious energy shines through as she encourages us to adopt a daily gratitude practice, reinforcing the idea that small, consistent actions can lead to monumental shifts in perspective. Our conversation not only highlights the science behind gratitude but also emphasizes the necessity of community and connection, making it clear that we're all in this journey together. Valencia's wisdom and humor make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate a more positive and productive mindset.

The salient point of today's discourse revolves around the extraordinary journey of John Brink, a paragon of resilience who transformed his humble beginnings into a remarkable legacy in Canada. Born amidst the harrowing backdrop of Nazi-occupied Holland during the Second World War, Brink's early experiences of survival and liberation by Canadian soldiers instilled in him an unwavering aspiration to seek a better life in the land of his heroes—Canada. Arriving in Prince George with merely $25.47 to his name and devoid of English proficiency or connections, he embarked on a formidable entrepreneurial journey, culminating in the establishment of John Brink Forest Products Limited, which became a leading force in North America’s lumber industry. Beyond his business acumen, Brink's profound impact extends to philanthropy, mentorship, and advocacy for education and workforce development, significantly enriching the community. In this episode, we delve into his inspiring narrative, exploring themes of grit, gratitude, and the transformative power of purpose.

The narrative unfolds the compelling life journey of John Brink, whose remarkable resilience and unwavering determination illustrate the essence of the human spirit. Born amidst the harrowing backdrop of Nazi-occupied Holland during the Second World War, Brink's formative years were marred by the struggles of survival, characterized by foraging for food and grappling with the trauma of war. At the tender age of five, he made a profound decision to one day reside in Canada, a country that represented hope and heroism in his young mind. The episode poignantly captures the transformative moment when Canadian soldiers liberated his village, an experience that indelibly shaped his aspirations and dreams. Fast-forwarding to 1965, Brink arrived in Canada with merely $25.47, devoid of English proficiency and connections, embarking on a journey that would see him evolve into a Canadian business icon. He founded John Brink Forest Products Limited, pioneering innovative practices in lumber manufacturing and ultimately becoming the largest producer of finger-jointed studs in North America. Yet, Brink's contributions extend far beyond the realm of business; he is a philanthropist, mentor, and staunch advocate for workforce development and education. His impactful legacy includes significant donations to trade training programs and support for aspiring athletes, underscoring his commitment to fostering growth in others. Through his story, Brink exemplifies the power of perseverance, gratitude, and purpose, resonating deeply with listeners and inspiring them to overcome their own challenges.

Takeaways:

• John Brink's journey from war-torn Holland to becoming a Canadian business icon exemplifies resilience and determination.
• At the age of five, John Brink made a pivotal decision to pursue his dream of living in Canada, inspired by the Canadian soldiers who liberated his village.
• Despite arriving in Canada with limited resources, John Brink built a successful lumber company and became a leader in the industry.
• John Brink's commitment to philanthropy and mentorship has significantly impacted workforce development and education in his community.
• His experiences during World War II have profoundly shaped his perspectives on life, business, and the importance of community.
• John emphasizes the value of attitude, passion, and work ethic as foundational elements for achieving success in entrepreneurship.