In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by John Rood, founder and CEO of Proceptual, a company helping organizations implement responsible AI governance and workforce training.
We dive into what AI upskilling really means and explore how companies can empower their teams to use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. John shares practical strategies for integrating AI tools into the workplace, how to measure the success of these initiatives, and what leaders need to know to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape.
What AI upskilling looks like in practice
How to align AI adoption with company goals
Common challenges and how to overcome them
The future of AI governance and human–AI collaboration
If you’re a business leader, HR professional, or entrepreneur curious about bringing AI into your organization without the chaos - this episode is for you.
You can connect with John here Compliance Solutions for AI Regulations - Proceptual
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In episode 267 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Alex M.H. Smith - bestselling author of No Bullsht Strategy*, founder of Basic Arts, and trusted advisor to leaders who want to make strategy simple, bold, and powerful enough to inspire real action.
Alex has worked with billion-dollar brands like Porsche and fast-moving startups worldwide, helping them escape me-too competition and uncover the only value their business can deliver. His no-fluff approach to strategy has built him a global audience on LinkedIn and YouTube, where he challenges leaders to think differently about what strategy truly means.
In this dynamic conversation, we explore:
Why most companies don’t actually have a strategy - and how to fix it
The “Only, not Best” rule for escaping competition
How to turn theory into bold, practical business moves
Why chasing competitors or customers leads to mediocrity
If you’re a business owner or leader ready to simplify your strategy, stand out from the crowd, and drive decisive action across your organization - this episode is packed with clarity and inspiration.
You can connect with Alex here Home - Basic Arts
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 266 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Jason Meads, founder of Subsee - an innovative company harnessing artificial intelligence to protect and restore our oceans. Combining deep tech with marine science, Jason and his team use AI-powered monitoring, data analytics, and predictive modeling to help scientists and organizations better understand and preserve marine ecosystems.
In this powerful conversation, we explore:
How AI can transform the way we monitor and protect our oceans
The biggest environmental challenges our planet faces today — and how technology can help
Jason’s personal journey from inspiration to founding Subsee
The ethical side of using AI for environmental protection
What leaders and organizations can do to support sustainable marine innovation
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about technology, sustainability, and leadership with purpose. Jason shares a hopeful vision for the future of our planet - one where innovation and compassion go hand in hand, even in the depths of the ocean.
Tune in to discover how artificial intelligence can become one of our greatest allies in protecting Earth’s most vital ecosystem.
You can connect with Jason here SUBSEE - Ocean Intelligence
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In the episode 265 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast I’m joined by Dr. Agnieszka Piotrowska - Founder and CEO, PhD in Psychoanalysis, award-winning filmmaker, academic, life coach, and entrepreneur.
Her work is absolutely fascinating - she explores the intersections of AI, ethics, and desire, helping people manifest more conscious and inspired lives. Dr. Piotrowska is also the author of “AI Intimacy in Psychoanalysis” - a groundbreaking book about how technology and artificial intelligence are reshaping our understanding of intimacy, relationships, and the human psyche.
In this conversation, we talk about:
how her creative and academic journey shaped her view on human connection,
what “AI intimacy” really means and how it differs from human intimacy,
what psychoanalysis can teach us about our relationship with technology,
and how we can stay emotionally grounded in the age of AI.
This episode will make you think deeply about what it means to be human and how to stay connected, conscious, and curious as the world of AI evolves.
You can connect with Agnieszka here:
https://www.scholarsmentor.com/
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In the episode 264 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I sit down with Mark Young - entrepreneur, educator, author, philanthropist, and CEO of Ryze Agency, a Fort Lauderdale-based marketing firm that helps brands grow through strategic storytelling and data-driven marketing.
Mark has built a career on action, adaptability, and generosity. From launching businesses and mentoring leaders to traveling the world in search of meaning, his journey proves that success comes not from waiting for the perfect plan but from taking bold steps forward. Today, he’s bringing that same philosophy to health innovation and leadership - helping people live longer, healthier, and more purposeful lives.
We dive into:
The power of radical generosity in leadership and business.
The biggest mistakes brands make when connecting with real people.
Mark’s personal philosophy on action, momentum, and leading with purpose.
If you’re ready to rethink how you live, lead, and serve - this episode will inspire you to take action, embrace generosity, and create impact.
👉 Listen now and discover how radical generosity and innovation can transform leadership and life.
Connect with Mark here Ryze Agency - Home
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 263 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Ausra Bijaminiene, CEO Advisor, Self-Leadership Mentor, and founder of the Boutique Institute of Leadership.
With over 25 years of international HR leadership experience at global organizations like AstraZeneca, Nordea, and Danske Bank, Ausra now helps CEOs, successors, and top executives navigate transitions, dilemmas, and midlife shifts with clarity and purpose. Recognized as a Top 100 Global Women Mentor, she blends strategic insight with a deeply human approach to guiding leaders through change.
In this deep and inspiring conversation, we explore:
✅ Why self-leadership is the foundation of sustainable leadership
✅ How leaders can reconnect with themselves to avoid burnout and lead with integrity
✅ The role of vulnerability in building strong, trusted relationships
✅ What CEOs and family business leaders need most to balance growth with legacy
✅ How self-leadership can scale from guiding teams to shaping industries and movements
✨ If you’re navigating leadership challenges or want to build resilience and clarity in your own journey, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and powerful stories.
Connect with Ausra here https://boutiqueleadership.com/
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
🎙️ In episode 262 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Jennifer Kaplan, founder and CEO of Evolve Public Relations and Marketing, one of Arizona’s premier PR agencies.
With over 15 years of experience helping businesses and leaders craft authentic stories, build trust, and navigate the fast-changing media landscape, Jennifer has become a recognized leader in PR and entrepreneurship. She has been named one of The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business and honored with multiple awards for her impact on communication and leadership.
In this inspiring conversation, we explore:
✅ What leadership truly means — starting with self-leadership
✅ How to lead others by prioritizing people first
✅ The biggest lessons Jennifer has learned as a leader in the PR industry
✨ If you want to strengthen your leadership and communication, while learning how to authentically connect with your audience, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Connect with Jennifer here Evolve PR: Award-Winning PR & Marketing in Arizona
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In the episode 261 of the IDEAS+LEADERS podcast, I sit down with Matthew Stafford, Managing Partner at Build Grow Scale and a veteran entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience building businesses across industries. From brick-and-mortar stores to SaaS and DTC brands, Matthew has seen it all - and helped hundreds of eCommerce companies cross the $1M and even $10M revenue milestones.
We dive deep into:
The biggest leadership lessons from 3 decades of entrepreneurship
The most common conversion killers in eCommerce today
How to increase sales without increasing ad spend
Using buyer psychology and data-driven insights to boost performance
Why conversion doesn’t stop at the sale - and how to turn buyers into loyal fans
If you’re leading a startup or scaling a global brand, this conversation is packed with strategies you can apply right away to grow smarter, not just bigger.
🎧 Tune in now and get an insider’s perspective on the future of eCommerce optimization.
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 260 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Kelly Price, founder of ThriveHR and a powerhouse in strategic HR, leadership, and workplace culture.
With a career that began at Marriott and grew into executive HR leadership and entrepreneurship, Kelly brings a rare blend of people-first wisdom and sharp business acumen. Today, she helps small businesses build solid people foundations that support long-term success.
In this episode, we explore:
✅ Why HR is not just a support function - but a strategic driver of business results
✅ What confident HR leadership really looks like
✅ How leaders can build thriving workplace cultures through intentional development
✅ Why leadership development is essential, not optional, for sustainable growth
✅ What small businesses can teach big companies about authentic leadership
✨ If you’re building a business, leading a team, or shaping company culture - this episode will challenge and inspire you.
Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: Kelly Price, SHRM-SCP | LinkedIn
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 259 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Ruth Milligan - executive speech coach, TEDx pioneer, and founder of Articulation Inc., a top executive communication firm.
Ruth is the force behind TEDxColumbus, the longest-running TEDx event in the world, and has coached over 1,000 speakers across science, business, and the arts. Her insights have helped leaders from Fortune 10 companies and major research institutions turn complex ideas into compelling, actionable stories.
In this powerful conversation, we explore:
Common speaker mistakes that undermine credibility
How to communicate complex ideas with clarity and emotion
What shaded habits are — and how they sabotage your communication
Ruth’s top tools for becoming a more confident speaker
🎤 Ruth also gives us a sneak peek into her book The Motivated Speaker, where she unpacks the real behaviors that hold leaders back in high-stakes moments.
If you're ready to uplevel your communication and truly lead with your voice, this episode is a must-listen.
Follow Ruth on LinkedIn (1) Ruth Milligan | LinkedIn
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
🎙️ In episode 258 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Lisa L. Levy, Founder and CEO of Lcubed Consulting and author of the #1 bestselling book Future Proofing Cubed.
Lisa is the go-to expert for visionary founders who want to escape the chaos of daily operations without their businesses collapsing. Using her Adaptive Transformation™ Framework, she helps $1M–$15M companies build self-reliant leadership teams, increase profits, and create businesses that run (and thrive) without them.
In this episode, we uncover:
The steps to building a truly self-reliant team
How to align people, processes, and technology for rapid growth
What it takes to scale a business without losing your sanity
Why freedom should be the ultimate goal of leadership - and how to achieve it
🔥 If you’re ready to stop working in your business and start leading it with clarity and calm, this conversation is for you.
Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: Lisa L. Levy
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 257 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Dave Behar, branding visionary, serial entrepreneur, and Chief Executive Athlete at ION Network and Behar Brands.
Dave has shaped thousands of media, tech, sports, and lifestyle brands and is a two-time Amazon bestselling author. With a passion for legacy-building, he's also a trusted advisor at San Diego State University and a strategic voice in branding, intellectual property, and leadership.
In this episode, we dive into:
The power of language in building iconic brands
How to craft a personal brand that is both authentic and strategic
What it means to be a “Chief Executive Athlete” in business
💡 If you’re a thought leader, entrepreneur, or changemaker ready to elevate your brand and impact, this episode is for you.
Connect with Dave on LinkedIn Dave Behar | LinkedIn
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 256 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Johaina El Boujaji, HR and Employer Branding expert, international recruiter, and passionate advocate for DE&I.Originally from France and Morocco, Johaina built her career in the UK and now leads recruitment and inclusion initiatives across Europe at American Express Global Business Travel. She’s also a university lecturer and a voice for young professionals navigating international careers.
Tune in as we explore:
The journey of building a career as an expat woman leader
How to thrive authentically in multicultural, high-performance environments
Keys to inclusive leadership and building diverse teams
Advice for young professionals starting international careers
What leaders should focus on today to create meaningful impact
Follow Johaina on LinkedIn Johaïna Elb (Assoc CIPD) | LinkedIn
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 255 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast I am speaking with Martine Cohen, transformative coach, speaker, and author of No More Layers: Discover Your Inner Power and Reclaim True Freedom from the Inside Out.
After a life-changing car accident, Martine found a new path blending intellect and intuition to help high achievers overcome fear, limiting beliefs, and old patterns, and live with authenticity and joy.
Tune in as we explore:
What it means to peel back our “layers” and why it’s key to personal freedom
How to recognize and shift mindset patterns shaped by fear
The difference between decision and choice and why it matters
Tools to break the “Fear Loop” and redefine success on your terms
Learn more at martinecohen.com
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 254 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Whitney Elkins-Hutten, personal finance expert, wealth strategist, and author helping people build and protect their wealth with confidence.Whitney shares practical advice drawn from years of experience in real estate, syndications, and financial education, guiding listeners at every stage of their wealth journey.
Tune in as we explore:
Why “budgeting is dead” and what to do instead
The main pillars of wealth creation
Simple steps to move from saving to smart investing
How the wealthiest structure their finances
Actionable tips to overcome overwhelm and start investing today
Learn more at passiveinvesting.com
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 253 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast I am speaking with Gaëlle Deschamps, leadership expert, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and founder of G Force. Gaëlle brings over 20 years of corporate leadership at L’Oréal, SABMiller, and Coca-Cola, where she trained thousands of leaders globally. Now, she’s on a mission to empower the next generation of female leaders through her signature programs and youth initiatives.
Tune in as we explore:
The essential skills young leaders need for the future
The difference between coaching executives and Gen Z leaders
How to engage young minds who learn faster and think differently
What parents and educators should stop and start doing to raise confident leaders
Gaëlle’s work is reshaping leadership at every level - from boardrooms to classrooms. You can connect with her here: gforceco.co.uk
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 252 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Piers Fallowfield-Cooper - executive coach, former CEO and Chairman, and author of Are You Still The Future?
Piers has led businesses across continents and industries, mentoring over 130 senior leaders, and challenging the conventional wisdom of what it means to lead in today’s world.
Tune in as we explore:
How to turn challenges like dyslexia into leadership strengths
What the future of leadership looks like in an AI-driven world
How to build authentic executive presence
Why success doesn’t always bring fulfillment and how to find meaning
Whether you’re a rising leader or an experienced exec, this episode is full of powerful insights on staying relevant and leading with impact.
Learn more at Piers Fallowfield-Cooper | CEO Mentor - Welcome
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
What does it take to lead, scale, and sustain a thriving business - and grow as a person while doing it? In the episode 251 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we’re joined by Mark Musselman, a seasoned CEO turned executive coach who now guides top leaders through transformative breakthroughs at MX5 Consulting.
With over 30 years of leadership experience and a proven assess-align-accelerate methodology, Mark shares:
His biggest leadership lessons from the CEO seat
How self-awareness fuels real transformation
Strategies for overcoming blind spots and getting unstuck
What it takes to align people, systems, and purpose—especially during uncertainty
Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or aspiring leader, this episode offers actionable insights for leading with clarity, resilience, and impact.
🔗 Connect with Mark at mx5consulting.com
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In episode 250 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Kevin Surace - a Silicon Valley trailblazer, AI visionary, and dynamic speaker who holds 93 patents and has reshaped industries from construction to tech. From pioneering the first AI virtual assistant to leading energy retrofits on the Empire State Building, Kevin brings a rare blend of technical genius and creative flair.
Tune in as we explore:
Where AI is already transforming our lives and work
What industries are ripe for disruption
How leaders can build an “innovation DNA” in any company
Whether you're a founder, leader, or curious mind, this episode is packed with insights on embracing change and leading into the future with vision and creativity.
Learn more at kevinsurace.com
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.
In the episode 249 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Everett O’Keefe, a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and international #1 bestselling author and the founder of Ignite Press. With more than 200 bestselling book launches behind him, Everett is a leading voice in hybrid publishing - helping entrepreneurs and professionals turn their ideas into influence through authorship.
We dive into why publishing a book is still one of the most powerful tools for business growth and thought leadership. Everett shares how the right book can enhance your credibility, open doors to speaking engagements, attract ideal clients, and become a long-term business asset. We also go behind the scenes of what it really takes to launch a successful book - and how hybrid publishing offers an author-friendly alternative to traditional routes.
From choosing a strategic topic to building community and visibility around your book, this conversation is packed with practical insights for any leader ready to write their next chapter - literally.
Highlights include:
Why books still matter in the digital age
How to pick a topic aligned with your brand
The truth about hybrid publishing vs. self-publishing
How authorship builds community and influence
First steps for business leaders ready to become published authors
Learn more about Everett’s work at ignitepress.us and connect with him through The AuthorMind and Book Publishers Network.
Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.