In this episode, we sit down with Matt Beekman, Executive Director of Alpha Omega Group (AOG) and current President of the AFCEA San Diego Chapter (Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association). Matt draws on his rich leadership experience in the nonprofit / association world to share how many of the core dynamics of leadership and motivation are the same across sectors — whether you’re leading a mission-driven chapter or a business operation — while also exploring how nonprofit ...

In this episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Erin, a holistic wellness and attachment guide with a PhD in mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and relational leadership. Dr. Erin brings a unique perspective on leadership, drawing from her research on mindfulness practices with kindergartners and her expertise in attachment theory. Together, we explore how early patterns of emotional survival influence the way leaders show up today, and why nervous system reg...

In this episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Fredrik Brannlund, founder of Finally Together, a unique social accountability platform that helps people build positive habits through community support without shame, pressure, or external rewards. Fredrik shares his fascinating journey from running a multimillion-dollar remote SEO company across 12 time zones to developing a simple yet powerful app inspired by his curiosity about motivation, behavior, and well-bei...

In this episode, we’re joined by Ken Garber, owner and CEO of Del Rey Systems & Technology, for an engaging conversation about leadership across domains—from military service to private industry. Ken shares his journey from the U.S. Navy to the business world, eventually acquiring Del Rey and growing it into a company known for its people-first culture and mission-focused values. We dive into what it means to lead with purpose, how to build trust within teams, and the practical realities...

In this episode, we talk with Jack Turner, former Navy pilot and now CEO & Founder of XSite, a defense contracting company. Jack shares powerful lessons from his time in the cockpit and how those experiences shape his people-first leadership style today. We dive into topics like building culture, leading with purpose, and what it takes to lead effectively in both military and business environments. ©2025 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

In this episode, we sit down with Tim Snyder, VP of Program Management at G2 Ops. Tim shares insights from his journey through the U.S. Navy, his experience in defense contracting, and his approach to effective leadership in high-stakes environments. From leading complex programs to building strong teams, Tim offers wisdom and perspective every leader can learn from. We wrap it up with a few laughs and some solid jokes—don’t miss it! ©2023 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

In this thought-provoking episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we delve into the complex dynamics of trust in the context of elections. With a special focus on the psychological factors that drive voter behavior and loyalty, we explore how trust is built and challenged during political campaigns. We discuss the phenomena observed in the current presidential election, such as the enduring support for high-profile figures despite numerous controversies. Join us as we unpack the me...

In this continuation of our discussion on trust, Episode 27 of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast delves deeper into trust within hybrid work environments and the challenges of managing remote teams. Join us as we explore how trust operates not just through direct oversight but through the outcomes and productivity of remote work.In This Episode:Hybrid Work and Trust: How do managers ensure productivity and commitment when they can't see their employees in action? We discuss the shift fro...

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast. In Episode 26, we delve into the multifaceted concept of trust, a cornerstone of effective leadership and healthy relationships. Join Drea and Aaron as they explore the nuances of trust, from personal vulnerabilities to organizational dynamics.In This Episode:-Understanding Trust: Discover the critical role of trust in personal and professional settings, and how it impacts interactions and decisions.-The Tru...

In this episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Oscar Mintz, Executive Vice President of Ignite Digital Services. Oscar shares his journey from a small company with 10 employees to scaling a thriving business of over 300 employees, while discussing the leadership challenges, growth opportunities, and the importance of company culture. Tune in to hear his insights on scaling businesses, the balance between customer and company culture, and how leadership must evolve...

Join us in this engaging episode as we delve into the world of visualization with Rick Baumgartner, an Emmy-nominated creative producer, and Dennis Leung, an experienced engineer and leader. Learn about their journey of transforming complex concepts into captivating visual stories that not only inform but also inspire. Rick shares his diverse experiences in Hollywood, including his work on special effects for the TV series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," the movie "Idiocracy," and a visually...

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Namit Jindal, the innovative founder of Deliverability Ninja. Namit shares his expert knowledge on the art of cold emailing and the processes that drive successful sales strategies. Discover how Deliverability Ninja has harnessed both internal and outsourced talent to scale operations and significantly impact companies' outreach efforts.Throughout the discussion, Namit dives into the keys to crafting effective cold messages that cap...

In this episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Melissa Fugitt, Vice President of People Operations at BAMF Health. Melissa shares her insights into the innovative work culture at BAMF Health, highlighting their flexible work schedules and comprehensive leave policies that prioritize employee autonomy and flexibility.Join us as Melissa discusses how these policies are integrated into BAMF Health’s broader company culture, fostering an environment that supports and ...

In this episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we sit down with James Roe, a seasoned professional whose diverse career spans the Navy, defense contracting, and executive roles in commercial companies. James shares his journey through various fields, emphasizing the importance of openness and a proactive approach to learning as key drivers of his professional success and growth.James discusses how his willingness to embrace new challenges and continuously acquire new skills has no...

Join us on the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast as we explore the transformative world of improv in the workplace with Jaime Rich and Randy Wight, founders of Spontaneous Mind. In our enlightening conversation, we delve into how their innovative approach to improv helps organizations build trust, foster teamwork, and develop essential skills among team members.Jaime and Randy explain the core principles of their methods and the upcoming release of their book, The Power of Yes And... Communi...

In this insightful mini podcast, Drea speaks with Jeff Bouwman, CEO and Co-founder of the AiMS Institute, at EPIC HR 2024. Jeff discusses the Appreciative Inquiry approach and its transformative application in leadership and organizational management. Discover how this methodology helps leaders naturally bring out the best in their teams for better results.©2023 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

Join Jimmy as he talks with marketing and events consultant Autumn Morgan in this engaging mini podcast from the EPIC HR 2024 conference. They dive into the interconnected worlds of marketing, leadership, and human resources, exploring how these fields converge to create impactful HR events. Listen to Autumn's expert insights on what makes a conference not only function but flourish.©2023 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

Tune in as Jimmy interviews Ashley Jensen, an enterprise sales executive at Noom Inc and a seasoned marathon runner, in our series from EPIC HR 2024. Ashley shares her lifelong passion for running, including her experiences from early competitions to conquering the Boston Marathon. This discussion delves into the performance psychology that has fueled her athletic and professional successes.©2023 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

Drea interviews Shawnna Hovorka, owner of Earnest HR Consulting, in another enlightening segment from EPIC HR 2024. Shawnna talks about her experiences as a fractional HR consultant and the crucial role effective HR practices play in the development and scalability of small organizations. Learn how her tailored HR solutions address unique challenges faced by growing companies.©2023 Intrinsic First, LLC. All Rights Reserved

In this intriguing episode of the Intrinsic First Leadership Podcast, we dive into the intense world of Helldivers 2 with our special guest, Brian Keller. As a game that challenges players to survive and thrive in a hostile environment, Helldivers 2 offers more than just action—it's a masterclass in teamwork and leadership under pressure.Join us as we break down the gameplay mechanics and dissect how Helldivers 2 is ingeniously designed to foster interdependence among players. With missions t...