Today I sit down with someone who I honestly never imagined I’d get to interview — Col. Lee Ellis. He’s a hero in every sense of the word and an inspiration to anyone who believes in resilience, honor, and the power of love. Lee is the President of Leading with Honor, a leadership and team development company that coaches senior executives at Fortune 500 companies. He’s also a former fighter pilot, shot down over Vietnam and held as a POW in Hanoi for more than five years. He returned with honor and went on to become a highly decorated Air Force Colonel, an award-winning author, and a nationally respected leadership consultant and speaker. My heartfelt thanks to the Medal of Honor Museum Foundation and Kevin Basik for making this possible.

Today I talk with Ruth Milligan, executive speech coach, TEDx curator extraordinaire, and founder of Articulation Inc. Ruth ran TEDxColumbus for 12 straight years (a Herculean feat that deserves its own standing ovation!) and recently released her new book The Motivated Speaker. Not “motivational,” mind you—motivated. There’s a big difference, and we unpack that in this episode. We start by going behind the scenes of the TEDx world... what most people don’t know about how speakers are selected, what really goes on in organizing these events, and why “your keynote is not your TEDx talk.” Ruth and I also talk about the unethical “TEDx-for-sale” promises floating around, and how aspiring speakers can do it the right way, with integrity, authenticity, and actual impact. (Spoiler: following directions matters.) Then, we dive into her book, where she shares the six threshold concepts every powerful speaker needs to cross, messy, transformative milestones that take you from good to unforgettable. We explore two of them in detail, and they are absolute game-changers.

When life hits you hard, how do you bounce back? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Kijuan Amey—Resilience Coach, motivational speaker, and author of Don’t Focus on Why Me: From Motorcycle Accident to Miracle. From refueling fighter jets midair to surviving a catastrophic motorcycle accident that left him blind, Kijuan’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. As a former U.S. Airman, his stories from the KC-135 refueling bay will blow your mind—and his resilience after unimaginable trauma will move your soul.

What if the key to better leadership isn’t just speaking... but also listening? In today’s episode, I sit down again with Julian Treasure, a man whose name says it all—his insights truly are a treasure. I'll start by saying that I am thrilled to have Julian back on the show. Julian is a global authority on sound and listening, and how both shape leadership, communication, and connection. In this episode, we explore his powerful new book, Sound Affects - spelled with an “A” for a reason, and dive into why the world needs to relearn the lost art of listening. We talk leadership and the dangerous consequences of leaders who can’t, or won’t, hear the truth. Julian shares lessons from his time in sales, publishing, and running The Sound Agency, as well as the life experiences that tuned his ears to the profound power of sound.

In today's episode, I sit down with Jennifer Kaplan, a true PR powerhouse and the founder and CEO of Evolve PR and Marketing—the largest firm of its kind in Arizona. She's got lessons for the World. In this conversation, Jennifer and I dive into the heart of what makes a great leader—beyond just business success. We discuss the power of giving back, how vulnerability shapes authentic leadership, and why showing up for your community can create a lasting impact. We also unpack the difference between PR and marketing, the power of earned media, and what makes a brand message truly resonate. Jennifer doesn’t just run a top-tier agency—she’s got the heart, hustle, and insight that make her a magnetic force in the world of media and messaging. If you’ve ever wondered when to hire a PR firm, how to show up like a pro on camera, or how to make your message stick in a crowded world, this episode is for you. Jennifer shares hard-earned wisdom from decades in the industry, and we get into why preparation beats improvisation—even if you’re great at winging it. (Spoiler: the most authentic pros rehearse more than you think.) And stick around for some stories about leadership missteps from public figures that are cringeworthy and instructive. This is a masterclass in visibility, authenticity, and influence—don’t miss it.

Becky Schmooke — Author, Keynote Speaker, Founder of Becky’s Mindful Kitchen, and Stoic Edge Consulting, which is focused on providing action-based mindfulness and leadership training to organizations and individuals who are ready to do things differently. Is leadership really just for the powerful and polished? Not according to Becky Smooke. In this personal and inspiring conversation, Becky joins me to unpack her philosophy that leadership is a choice, not a job title. From leading summer camps and parenting teenagers to training NFL rookies and recovering from a long-running eating disorder, Becky reveals how the right handle can change everything. (You will like it when you understand! I did!) Together, they explore the power of intentional vulnerability, the myth of authority-based leadership, and how to own your story—especially the messy parts. Becky also walks John through her STOA method, a straightforward yet transformative framework for reflection, goal-setting, and leadership growth.

What do pirates, military special ops, and best-selling books have in common? Leadership. This week, I’m joined by someone I love, disagree with sometimes, and deeply respect. Atlas Aultman—former Special Operations Commander, White House military lead, bestselling author of many books, including the Rule of Three, and host of Targeted, a podcast uncovering the secrets of visible success. In this episode, Atlas opens up about the high-stakes lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy—from combat deployments to the TEDx stage. We explore how pirate leadership, trust cycles, and his personal journey of purpose led him to focus exclusively on podcasting. You’ll hear about his kids’ book empire, his military notebooks, and how we drag each other into media bubbles we don't normally inhabit - and why.

In this episode, I reconnect with my friend Dr. Paul Jenkins, positivity psychologist, author, speaker, and host of Live on Purpose Radio. He is a lovable dude, and I think you'll really like what he has to share. We first met at the Performance Academy with Michelle Villalobos, and since then, we’ve had some incredible conversations, including one on his podcast. This time, he joined me to explore one of the most powerful transformations I’ve heard—how a personal financial crisis became the foundation of his mission to spread positivity and purpose. Dr. Paul shares his story of bankruptcy, the lessons it taught him, and how he emerged with a renewed focus on service, choice, and the influence we all have. He unpacks the “Influence Quadrant,” a simple but profound model for shifting your focus and stepping into real leadership. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like you’re not enough, or if you want to lead with greater impact, this one’s for you.

This week’s podcast was a masterclass in grit, growth, and greatness. I sat down with someone who has become a dear friend, a partner and a mentor, Diego Ugalde—retired Navy SEAL, CEO of The Trident Approach, founder of Warrior Side, and author of Leading From The Deep—to explore what real leadership and healing look like when forged in the fire of extreme human experience.

In this episode of Live Like a Leader, John Bates sits down with Steve Waddell, a visionary entrepreneur, innovator, and thought leader. Steve shares his journey from working on nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to launching Nasoni, an innovative faucet company, and ultimately pivoting into the world of software development and AI-driven healthcare solutions. He breaks down the crucial steps in the entrepreneurial journey, the importance of knowing your who before your why, and the power of persistence through setbacks. If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or dreamer, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons you won’t want to miss!

What if the most powerful way to lead isn’t through logic or authority but through love and insightful vulnerability™? In this profound and heartwarming conversation, John Bates sits down with David Cunningham—communication expert, transformation leader, and longtime advocate for creating meaningful change. From his early work in child advocacy to leading transformational programs worldwide, David shares powerful stories and insights on how love, understanding, and communication can drive authentic leadership. John and David dive into: - The transformative lesson David’s mother taught him about patience and presence while caring for his stepfather with dementia—and how it influences John’s own journey with his mom. - A groundbreaking shift in child abuse prevention messaging that turned silence into thousands of calls for help—and how leaders can use the same principles to create connection and success in their organizations. - Why righteousness breeds argument—and how shifting from ‘being right’ to ‘being committed’ creates real change. - The concept of a ‘love footprint’—what are we leaving behind in our interactions? - How leaders can embrace insightful vulnerability™ to build emotional credibility™ and stronger human connections. - David’s new book, Your Love Does Matter: A Journey to New Consciousness and Expanding Your Love Footprint, and his mission to infuse leadership, politics, and society with love through the Love Matters Collaboration and Love Goes to the Capitol initiatives. This episode is packed with wisdom, real-life stories, and actionable insights for any leader looking to make a real impact—not by being the smartest in the room, but by leading with love.

What’s holding you back from sharing your story? In this episode, John Bates is joined by Mark Leruste, keynote speaker, CEO of Storycast, and author of Glow in the Dark. Together, they explore the profound impact of storytelling in leadership, connection, and personal transformation. Mark shares insights into overcoming proximity bias, leveraging your origin story, and moving from shame to service to inspire and influence others. John and Mark also dive into the importance of crafting authentic stories with intention, the value of vulnerability, and the ripple effect of sharing your journey. Whether you're a seasoned leader, an aspiring speaker, or simply someone with a story to tell, this conversation will inspire you to step into your power.

What happens when you combine vulnerability, authenticity, and leadership? Magic. In our heartfelt and powerful conversation, I welcome Mike Robbins, a sought-after author, global speaker, and expert on leadership, teamwork, and communication. Mike shares his journey from a professional baseball career cut short by injury to becoming a leading voice on authenticity and connection in the workplace. We acknowledge Landmark Education, where we met and talked about some of the most important things in leadership. Get ready to dive into Mike’s “Authenticity Equation” (honesty minus self-righteousness plus vulnerability) and learn how to build trust, navigate challenging conversations, and foster collaboration on your team. Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or someone striving for deeper human connections, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt advice. Love the episode? Don’t forget to: ✔️ Subscribe to Live Like a Leader ⭐ Leave a 5-star review – it helps us reach more leaders like you! 🔗 Share this episode with a colleague or friend who needs to hear it.

In this episode, I sit down with a friend I met in a luxury hot tub on the top of a tall hotel in Dubai recently. We were there as patrons of the Bates Foundation, run by our mutual friend, Sebastian Bates. Dan Sherrard-Smith is the founder and CEO of MyMotherTree.com, the world’s first money carbon calculator. In our conversation, Dan shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey, from building a business that landed the best deal ever on Dragon’s Den to creating a tool that transforms how individuals and businesses address the climate crisis. In this conversation, we hear about how having a baby changed his entire outlook and how being a Father got him focused. We also explore the power of personal branding, the keys to leveraging LinkedIn for meaningful connections, the critical role of paying attention to the money in driving sustainability, and a lot more. He is just a lighthouse of good will and I think you'll love him as much as I do. PLEASE: If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a fellow leader or entrepreneur who would benefit from these insights. Don’t forget to subscribe to Live Like a Leader, leave a 5-star review, and help us spread the word!

In this straight-talking episode, I talk with a friend of mine, Baz Porter. He is a transformational executive consultant and the go-to catalyst for top-tier CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders looking to reach the next level. Baz works with real go-getters, and I like his brash directness and no-nonsense approach. In our conversation, Baz shares his strategies for pushing boundaries, exceeding expectations, and achieving unparalleled success, and he shares some Insightful Vulnerability™ I think you'll find inspiring. We discuss: - The mindset shifts required to break through personal and professional barriers. - How to embrace brutal truths and turn them into powerful growth opportunities. - Real-world advice on unlocking leadership potential and creating lasting impact. - You will get actionable insights and inspiration to elevate your game from our conversation. Ready to exceed your expectations? Press play now! 🎧

In this episode, investigative journalist Mark Albert dives deep into the pressing issue of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age. He and host John Bates explore how social media algorithms contribute to the spread of false narratives and why discerning news consumption is essential for a healthy democracy. Mark emphasizes the importance of supporting trustworthy journalism, shares eye-opening statistics about online disinformation, and highlights how foreign and domestic actors manipulate public opinion. Key Takeaways: - The Information Crisis: With more access to information than ever, we are also bombarded with misleading content. - Journalism's Role: Professional journalism plays a critical role in offering well-rounded, reliable news. - The Emotional Manipulation of Disinformation: Watch out for news that evokes strong emotions—this could be a sign of manipulation. - Polarization and Political Violence: Mark discusses the alarming rise in political violence and the dangerous division in society. - The Global Influence on US Elections: How foreign powers, including Russia, China, and Iran, aim to destabilize US democracy by spreading disinformation. Quote of the Episode: "If all you're consuming is ice cream, you're missing the nutritious information your mind needs." This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to better understand the complexities of our media landscape and how to be a more informed, responsible news consumer and citizen. Listen Now!

In this episode of Live Like a Leader, John Bates talks with Minal Mehta, a leadership coach who blends her experience at top tech companies like Google, LinkedIn, and Amazon with a deep understanding of mindfulness and psychology. Minal shares her journey of transitioning from a high-powered corporate career to becoming a coach, helping leaders align their careers with their true selves while maintaining their ambition and drive. The episode explores key lessons from Minal’s career, including insights from working closely with leaders like Jeff Bezos and Reid Hoffman, and how clarity in communication is crucial for effective leadership. Minal also shares her personal wake-up calls, the power of meditation, and practical strategies for leaders to achieve success without sacrificing their well-being. Key Topics Covered: 🔊How meditation and self-reflection can improve leadership 🔊The importance of clarity and communication in driving success 🔊Practical tips for balancing ambition with joy and ease 🔊Why leaders need to prioritize self-alignment to create sustainable impact This episode is a must-listen for leaders looking to elevate both their professional and personal lives.

With me today is a guy I first met at South by Southwest when he was working for Rackspace, and I loved his unbridled enthusiasm for startups and entrepreneurs like me, as well as his deep knowledge and love of technology. He's the earliest adopter I've ever met and he's got a lot of experience with communication and technology. Lately, he's gone deep into AI. We talk about all of that and more. I think you'll enjoy his stories of the good old days of technology when we were both a lot younger and dumber. And, he has a lot to share about the wave of AI that is washing over the world at an ever-increasing speed. He's got a ringside seat and is actually deep in the mix, so his perspective is very valuable. I hope you enjoy our conversation! In this episode of *Live Like a Leader*, we dive deep into the tech world with industry legend Robert Scoble. From building Apple 2 motherboards in his kitchen as a young boy with his mom to mapping the ever-evolving AI landscape, Scoble brings decades of insight and first-hand experiences that you won’t hear anywhere else. Robert Scoble's perspective as a seasoned tech veteran offers a compelling look at the fast-paced world of artificial intelligence and the seismic shifts it’s creating across industries. Don't miss this conversation packed with innovation, insights, and practical takeaways for leaders navigating the digital future. Join us as we explore: - **Corporate Creativity at Microsoft** – Discover the unusual "punishments" Scoble faced for breaking the rules and how they shaped his communication skills. - **Tech Trailblazing** – Hear about his pioneering use of live-streaming interviews (from a Nokia phone, no less!) and his strategy for building vast networks of tech companies and news sources on X (formerly Twitter). - **AI's Boom and Bust** – Compare the rise and fall of the .com era with today’s AI explosion, where startups are multiplying and funding is skyrocketing. - **Unlocking AI’s Potential** – Get Scoble’s practical tips on making the most of AI tools like ChatGPT, including how to master prompt engineering and navigate AI’s context limitations. - **AI in Action** – From healthcare to retail to entertainment, learn how AI technologies—like augmented reality and digital twins—are revolutionizing industries.

Melissa D. White is an International Speaker, Coach, and Advocate. She is the founder of the Activation Hour and Righting Our Wrongs. I met her for the first time in the Virgin Islands as we were both preparing to speak to 750,000 people in India. She's someone for whom I have great respect, and we have a great conversation. We talk about how DEI has become polarizing and political and she shares some profound insight from her years of working in DEI. We discuss the importance of self-inclusion, leaving room to channel and hear your people, employees, stakeholders, and community, why diverse teams are more successful, building bridges, not barriers, the hidden conversation about spiritual wellness, and much more. Melissa is a gem and I think you'll love her like I do. Watch her TEDxBuckhead talk Can I Bring My Faith To Work? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wr6rAglGZSo) Find more at Melissadwhite.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/melissadwhite.

In this episode, I have a wonderful, down-home chat with Jim Britt, and I think you're going to love it! Jim is a 15-time bestselling author with 12 International bestsellers. He is among the world's top 15 most influential speakers and one of the top 20 success coaches. He has spoken at over 5K events in 31 countries, and I think you'll see why so many people want to listen to him in this conversation. We talked about the time he and his wife and child lost their house to foreclosure and had their car and furniture repossessed. It taught him the power of never giving up. We discussed what makes good leaders, the power of integrity, and the power of letting go. He shares some great stories that you'll get a lot from hearing. You can find him at JimBritt.com and get your first two sessions of his program, the Power of Letting Go, for free at poweroflettinggo.com.