🚀 In episode #225, we welcomed Maria Sundström, Senior People Growth Partner at Mentimeter. Maria Sundström shared her journey from Estonia to Sweden and her experiences in various roles, particularly in HR at Mentimeter. She discussed the importance of organizational values, the role of fun in the workplace, and the significance of effective onboarding. Maria emphasized the need for situational leadership and the continuous effort required to maintain high-performing teams.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 What experiences defined Maria's beliefs as an HR professional and a leader
💡 What makes the culture of Mentimeter a unique blend of peak performance and fun
💡 Practical ideas to make your team thrive at work
💡 How to apply situational leadership to be effective in the workplace
And many more...
Maria Sundström is a People Growth Catalyst with more than a decade of experience shaping cultures and supporting leaders across global tech, consulting, and corporate environments. She has built her career on a simple belief: when people feel safe, seen, and inspired, they can achieve extraordinary things. Today, Maria works at Mentimeter, where she partners with leaders and teams to accelerate performance, strengthen well-being, and foster psychological safety. She has led initiatives in leadership capability building, onboarding design, inclusion, and organizational growth - always with a focus on creating workplaces where people can truly belong and flourish. Her professional journey includes roles at Avanade, Mercer, and Coca-Cola Enterprises, where she supported leaders through transformation, built onboarding programs, and drove global HR initiatives that improved engagement and retention. With experience spanning start-ups to large corporates, she combines strategic HR expertise with curiosity and empathy - enabling people and organizations to grow in sustainable, human-centered ways.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
02:32 Career Journey and Early Experiences
05:45 Cultural Insights from Living Abroad
08:36 Company Culture at Mentimeter
11:50 Values and High-Performance Teams
14:35 Recruitment Process and Cultural Fit
17:38 Onboarding Best Practices
34:28 Exploring Values in Onboarding
41:50 Navigating Organizational Values and Hypocrisy
49:51 Leadership Styles and Situational Adaptability
57:17 The Importance of Mistakes in Leadership
01:06:38 Balancing Fun and Productivity in the Workplace
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
In episode #224, our host Stoyan Yankov welcomed a seasoned podcast guest, Winston Ben Clements. Together, they did a LIVE Q&A session and answered questions on "networking and making meaningful connections".
Some of the key takeaways:
💡 Networking is about building relationships, not just transactions.
💡 Lead with value to create meaningful connections.
💡 Have a clear objective when attending networking events.
💡 Be open to unexpected opportunities that arise during networking.
💡 Weak ties can lead to significant opportunities in the future.
💡 Manage your energy and mindset to maximize networking effectiveness.
💡 Starting conversations can be easier if you arrive early to events.
💡 Be curious and ask questions to engage others in conversation.
💡 Follow up with connections to nurture relationships over time.
💡 Personal branding can attract connections to you.
About our guest:Winston Clements is a Keynote Speaker and Consultant specializing in disability inclusion and unconscious bias. He is passionate about supporting the world’s leading organizations to deliver cultural change that is truly inclusive.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Networking and Connections
02:49 Defining Meaningful Connections
05:53 The Importance of Generating Value in Networking08:45 Setting Objectives for Networking
11:39 Starting Conversations in New Environments
14:33 Choosing the Right People to Connect With
17:27 Mindset and Energy Management in Networking
33:15 Energy Management on the Road
44:34 Networking with Executives and Leaders
54:25 The Power of Weak Ties
01:03:13 Building Meaningful Connections
__________
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #223, we welcomed the amazing Andrew Tarvin, Founder & CEO of Humor That Works.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 How can humor reduce stress and boost productivity at work?
💡Can humor really be learned through practice and science?
💡Why are the stakes for humor in the workplace higher than in comedy clubs?
💡How does affiliative humor create a safer environment in professional settings?
💡In what ways can humor help connect with high-status individuals?
and many more..
About our guest:
Andrew Tarvin is a speaker, author, coach, and trainer who teaches individuals and organizations how to use humor to work more effectively while having fun. He has delivered 100+ talks and workshops for over 10,000 people at companies like Procter & Gamble, GE, General Assembly, and The Ohio State University.
Through his company, Andrew helps people tap into their natural personalities, embrace humor as a tool for leadership, communication, and productivity, and find more joy in the work they do.
You can find Andrew here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarvintalks
Website: https://drewtarvin.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:50 The Power of Humor in Professional Life
05:45 Researching Humor's Impact
08:49 The TEDx Experience and Its Influence
11:38 Overcoming the Myth of Being Funny
14:43 Using Humor Appropriately in the Workplace
17:37 Building Connections Through Humor
20:51 Understanding Different Humor Styles
35:58 The Power of Self-Deprecating Humor
38:53 Understanding Aggressive Humor
43:50 Navigating Humor in the Workplace
45:05 Practical Applications of Humor
51:57 Using Humor for Retention and Engagement
01:00:33 Creating a Fun Work Environment
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #222, we welcomed the amazing Aslak de Silva, Author of The Black Belt in Leadership.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 Why is earning a black belt considered just the beginning of mastery?
💡 How does discipline in martial arts translate into discipline in business?
💡 Why is self-awareness essential for effective leadership?
💡 In what ways can pressure be used as a training tool for future challenges?
💡 How can customer experience determine the success or failure of an event?
and many more..
About our guest:
Aslak de Silva is a seasoned CEO, international keynote speaker, and host of The Black Belt in Leadership podcast. He has led companies through bold growth journeys, scaling Nordic Business Forum across Europe and guiding Selfly Store through global expansion and a successful exit.
With a background in martial arts and nearly 100 full-contact fights, Aslak brings the discipline, resilience, and clarity from the mat into the boardroom. He is also the author of The Black Belt in Leadership and a Forbes Business Council member, passionate about shaping the future of leadership and helping others grow.
You can find Aslak here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aslakdesilva/
Website: http://www.theblackbeltinleadership.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Aslak De Silva
02:02 Martial Arts Journey and Career Evolution
05:56 Transitioning from Martial Arts to Business
09:45 The Black Belt Philosophy in Leadership
15:27 Leading Nordic Business Forum
21:11 Creating Exceptional Customer Experiences
27:20 The Balance of Relaxation and Intensity in Leadership
37:07 Mastery Through Consistency
38:45 Learning from Mistakes in Leadership
39:55 The Art of Situational Leadership
42:46 Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership
48:28 The Importance of Strategy and Timing
52:03 Moving with Precision Under Uncertainty
55:13 Pressure as a Training Tool
59:57 Navigating Crisis as a Leader
01:07:56 Self-Awareness in Leadership
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #221, we welcomed the amazing Daniel Krauss, Founder & Chief Organizational Plumber at Flix.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 Why is understanding the addressable market critical for a startup’s success?
💡How can speed in decision-making become a startup’s competitive edge?
💡In what ways does leadership evolve as a company scales?
💡How do company values reflect — or fail to reflect — its actual culture?
💡Why is adaptability one of the most vital traits for entrepreneurs?
and many more..
About our guest:
Daniel Krauss is the co-founder, CIO & CHRO at Flix, one of Europe’s most successful mobility tech companies.
From launching a startup to building a global transportation leader, Daniel has been at the forefront of Flix’s remarkable journey. As both a tech and people leader, investor, and advocate for innovation-driven education, he brings a unique perspective on scaling, sustainability, and leading with purpose.
You can find Daniel here:
LinkedIn: https://de.linkedin.com/in/danielmkrauss
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniel_m_krauss/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
00:53 The Birth of Flix and Initial Challenges
03:50 Early Days and First Bus Ride
06:49 Vision and Growth Ambitions
08:33 Competitive Edge and Speed of Execution
10:34 Entrepreneurial Culture and Decision-Making
19:11 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
22:13 Leadership Style Evolution
28:46 Hiring and Team Dynamics
34:34 Maintaining Structure and Culture
39:18 Core Values and Non-Negotiables
44:04 Productivity and Time Management
46:52 Marketing Strategies and Brand Building
52:34 Hiring Mindset and Company Culture
57:08 Future Vision for Flix
01:04:18 Final
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #220, we welcomed the amazing Martin Wolf, Founder of Visible Leader and Business & Psychology.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 How does emotional contagion influence team performance?
💡 In what ways does micromanagement reflect a leader’s need for security?
💡How can leaders overcome the curse of knowledge to communicate more effectively?
💡What role does self-awareness play in managing emotions as a leader?
💡How can creating safe spaces for dialogue help resolve power struggles in the workplace?
and many more..
About our guest:
Martin is a strategist, author, and global management advisor on workplace dynamics — operating at the intersection of leadership, psychology, and performance.
Over the past two decades, he has supported organizations such as Nike, BMW, Dynatrace, Danone, Samsung, and T-Mobile, navigating complex transformations both in-house and as an external consultant.
His work spans scale-ups, public institutions, and innovation ecosystems across Europe.He has led transformation initiatives impacting 40 country markets, acting as Strategy and Program Director.
His focus has been centered on Innovation, Leadership and Cultural Dynamics that drive organizational performance.
You can find Martin here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/visiblele...
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0F6V9WDV6?r...
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:06 Introduction to the Book
02:22 Understanding Workplace Dynamics
05:36 The Writing Process and Structure
06:08 Recurring Patterns in Workplace Dynamics
10:26 Exploring Micromanagement
27:08 The Curse of Knowledge and Communication
34:09 Understanding Emotional Communication
43:44 The Impact of Emotional Contagion
52:16 AI and Power Dynamics in Organizations
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKv...
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
🚀 In episode #219, we welcomed the amazing Hardeep Dhanjal, Inspirational Speaker & Mindset Trainer.Listen to this episode and learn:💡 What makes Hardeep's journey from music to motivational speaking so inspiring?💡 How does overcoming adversity contribute to personal growth?💡 Why is authenticity so important in motivational speaking?💡 How can daily disciplines lead to long-term success?💡 Why is the journey toward a goal often more meaningful than the goal itself?and many more..About our guest:Keynote Speaker Hardeep Dhanjal is celebrated for his remarkable ability to inspire and transform organizations through his powerful keynotes. His extraordinary journey, from overcoming challenges as an immigrant child to achieving international music stardom and then facing profound personal setbacks, embodies a compelling narrative of resilience and triumph. Hardeep’s story of rising from adversity, navigating a tumultuous music industry, and reinventing himself as a leading motivational speaker highlights his deep understanding of personal and professional growth.You can find Hardeep here:Website: https://hardeepdhanjal.com/LinkedIn: https://dk.linkedin.com/in/hardeepdhanjalChapters:00:00 Introduction and Hardeep's Background02:14 The Journey to Music and Motivation09:13 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose10:41 Transitioning to Speaking and Inspiring Others17:02 The Growth of a Speaker19:43 Authenticity in Speaking26:05 Building Self-Trust and Confidence29:25 Building Trust Through Self-Commitment30:51 Setting Realistic Goals and Stretching Comfort Zones34:23 The Importance of the Journey Over the Destination36:06 Core Values and Personal Growth38:44 The Drive Behind Speaking and Helping Others42:18 Forgiveness and Understanding Family Dynamics48:34 The Role of Personal Development in Life51:32 Supporting Ambitions and Learning from Failure54:03 The Necessity of Personal Development59:50 Future Aspirations and GoalsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #218, we welcomed the amazing Sepideh Dundon, Channel Sales Leader at monday.com.Listen to this episode and learn:💡 Is channel sales an extension of the sales team?💡 How does self-awareness influence the evolution of one’s leadership style over time?💡 What sets coaching apart from therapy or traditional mentoring?💡 What role does psychological safety play in fostering a culture of openness and learning?💡 How does investing in coaching contribute to sustainable personal and organizational growth?About our guest:Sepideh is a dynamic sales leader and accredited coach with a strong track record of leading high-performing, geographically diverse teams across EMEA and LATAM. She brings a builder’s mindset and creative approach to developing and executing go-to-market strategies.Her deep knowledge of EMEA and LATAM markets, combined with a robust professional network, gives her a nuanced understanding of the cultural and business dynamics across both regions.You can find Sepideh here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepidehdundonChapters:00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk02:11 Understanding Channel Sales Leadership03:57 A Week in the Life of a Channel Sales Leader05:58 Career Evolution and Leadership Style09:54 The Transition to Coaching12:08 Insights from Coaching Training16:02 Demystifying Coaching19:57 Finding the Right Coach23:45 The Importance of Company Culture30:07 Driving Cultural Change from Within32:57 Building a Strong Company Culture48:01 Coaching Techniques and Leadership Styles01:01:39 Navigating Complexity in Leadership01:05:00 Connecting with Sepideh: Future EndeavorsEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433bApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
Painting, Designing, Singing, Dancing, Fashion, Spiritual exploration… 🤯𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚’𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭? 🎸🚀
In episode #217, we welcomed the amazing Chloe Trujillo.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 Chloe's incredible journey of making a name in the industry
💡 Why discipline is the backbone of creative success
💡 How to master time management as an artist
💡 How to find a balance between structure and creativity
💡 How Chloe managed to follow her passion while raising 2 children
About our guest:
Chloe Trujillo is one of Los Angeles’s most acclaimed and inspiring voices. Born into a family of artists, she carved her own path influenced by heavy music, mathematics, and other esoteric practices.Chloe started creating complex, layered, deeply saturated metaphorical compositions by allowing symbols, elements, melodies, words, and colors to flow through her, tapping into pure creativity.
📸 Just check her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloetrujillo/
Her work garners international acclaim in locales such as Paris, London, Berlin, NYC, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, receiving notice in Forbes Magazine, Vogue Italia, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and the New York Times. Chloe was a recipient of the 2022 Juice Merit Award for “Exceptional Creativity”, she was also nominated for Best Female Vocal Performance at the Josie Music Awards. Chloe’s art can currently be seen in Paris at the “Musée de la Philharmonie” and in Los Angeles at “Compound Contemporary”.
She is represented by the “Tracy Park” gallery in Malibu. Chloé currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Robert Trujillo, Metallica’s legendary bassist, and their two children.
Chapters:
00:00 Awkward Warm-Ups and Vocal Exercises
02:57 A Week in the Life of Chloe Trujillo
05:57 Time Management and Productivity Strategies
08:52 Balancing Creativity and Structure
12:02 The Role of Discipline in Artistic Pursuits
14:59 Navigating the Artistic Journey
18:00 Overcoming Creative Blocks
21:03 The Influence of Upbringing on Creativity
23:56 Choosing the Path of an Artist
26:52 The Struggles of an Emerging Artist
29:47 The Inner and Outer Struggles of Creativity
37:33 Peeling Off the Layers of Fear
39:06 The Journey of Spirituality and Healing
42:44 Creative Flow and Spiritual Practices
45:30 Balancing Family Life and Artistic Pursuits
52:49 Navigating Motherhood and Personal Identity
56:52 The Art of Performance Under Pressure
01:11:15 The Power of Giving Through Art
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
🚀 In episode #216, we welcomed Fonz Morris, Former Design Lead at Netflix, Entrepreneur, and Professional Speaker.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡 How Netflix grew to $3B+ in Revenue and a massive user base
💡 What makes the culture of Netflix a winning one
💡 The skillset you need to acquire to thrive in the upcoming AI era
💡 How to grow a multidisciplinary career by betting on your strengths
and a lot more...
About our guest:
Fonz Morris is an entrepreneur and self-taught designer, born in Brooklyn and now based in San Jose. He has worked in tech and design on both coasts of the United States, in Philadelphia, New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C., and California. Since 2020, Fonz Morris has been the Lead Product Designer at Netflix. Prior to joining Netflix, he led a design team at Coursera. Currently, Fonz is a professional speaker, travelling the world and inspiring crowds at the world's largest business events.
Chapters:
00:00 Early Riser and Family Life
02:47 Travel Adventures and Global Engagement
03:15 From Brooklyn to Netflix: A Journey of Creativity
07:41 Inside Netflix: Role and Responsibilities
10:02 User Experience at Netflix: A Commitment to Excellence
11:44 Culture of Innovation and Team Dynamics
13:19 The Impact of High-Performing Teams
14:52 The Intersection of Design and Business
15:37 Navigating Challenges in the Creative Industry
16:10 Strategic Moves: Password Sharing and Ads Tier
18:29 User Acquisition Strategies Post-2022
22:02 Learning from Competitors and Other Industries
23:36 Creative Problem-Solving Process
29:24 The Evolving Role of Designers in the Age of AI
35:02 The Power of Positivity and Mindset
37:02 The Human Element in Technology
39:25 Social Media and Self-Perception
42:21 The Power of Human Connection
46:12 Rethinking Success and Scale
49:21 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity
58:32 Building a Brand with Purpose
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #215, we welcomed Patrick Mork, Former CMO of Google Play and author of "Step back and LEAP"Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKv...Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Listen to this episode and learn:💡 Why struggle is your path to growth and success💡 How Patrick picked himself up after major setbacks💡 Gratitude practices that can enhance happiness and fulfillment.and many more...About our guest:
Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection01:59 The Journey of Writing a Book07:01 Overcoming Childhood Challenges14:12 Shifting Mindsets Towards Difficulties19:09 Experiences with Job Loss25:08 Finding Purpose in Life30:46 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth40:54 The Power of Gratitude42:17 Overcoming Fear and Comparison44:53 The Importance of Asking for Help46:50 The Dangers of Individualism50:51 Building Resilience Through Connection54:32 The Five Pillars of ResilienceEnjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #214, we welcomed Anna Nord, Senior People Experience Business Partner at Volvo Cars.
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡What drives HR’s shift from administrative support to a strategic business partner?
💡Why is purpose becoming more critical than perks in today’s workplace?
💡How do authenticity and vulnerability redefine effective leadership?
💡How can leaders prioritize well-being to enhance team productivity?
and many more...
About our guests:
Anna is a global HR expert with 17+ years of experience in human resources across diverse industries such as FMCG, Tech, Telecom, and Automotive, combining business acumen with tech-savvy thinking.
She has extensive experience working with Group Leadership Teams and leaders in Engineering, Product, and UX, leading initiatives in organizational development, change management, DE&I, and leadership growth.
You can find Anna here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annanord-hr/?originalSubdomain=se
Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Tech Glitches and Setting the Stage
02:52 The Evolution of HR in a Changing Workplace
05:59 Anna’s Journey into HR and Leadership
09:04 Rethinking the Perception of HR
12:13 Exploring the Future of Work
17:46 Key Leadership Traits for Today’s World
23:48 Building Authentic Leaders and Managers
30:09 Innovative Practices in Modern HR
36:12 Balancing Leadership: Inside and Out
42:03 Leading Through Resistance
48:13 Shifting Organizational Mindsets
52:47 Traits of Peak Performers
01:05:30 HR’s Role in Change Management
01:10:33 Cultivating Resilience and Self-Leadership
01:17:39 Embracing Change with Bounded Optimism
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #213, we welcomed Bob Molle, Olympic Medalist and Leadership Coach.
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡What does it mean to truly get comfortable being uncomfortable?
💡In what ways does resilience shape the path to success, especially in high-pressure environments?
💡Why is stepping into discomfort often essential for personal growth?
💡What impact do the people around us have on our mindset and motivation?
and many more...
About our guests:
Bob Molle, an Olympic medalist, two-time Grey Cup champion, and leadership coach, knows firsthand that resilience isn’t just a trait—it’s a skill that can be built, strengthened, and applied to every challenge.
Through his keynotes, workshops, and coaching, Bob helps leaders, sales teams, and organizations push past limits, adapt to change, and perform under pressure.
His book, Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable (GCBU), embodies this mindset. It’s the foundation of everything he teaches—guiding individuals and teams to turn discomfort into growth, adaptability, and peak performance.
You can find Bob here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobmolle/
Website:https://bobmolle.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Uncomfortable Growth
01:20 Overcoming Adversity Through the Olympic Journey
06:15 The Role of Preparation in Facing Challenges
10:03 Living Life Without Regret
11:48 Storytelling and Authenticity in Public Speaking
14:40 The Philosophy of Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
18:40 Eastern vs. Western Views on Growth
21:31 Personal Growth Through Discomfort
23:34 Applying Sports Lessons to Business
26:39 Building High-Performing Teams
29:41 Developing a Winning Mindset
33:22 Exploring the Reality of Positivity
34:44 Embracing Challenges with Persistence
37:03 Performing Under Pressure and Jet Lag
39:40 The Impact of Positive Thinking
40:10 Discipline and Consistency as Keys to Success
43:37 Relationship Building in Business
51:04 Managing Corporate Friction
57:45 Balancing Health and Relationships
01:01:55 Pursuing Simplicity and Future Aspirations
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #212, we welcomed Zoltan Vardy, B2B Sales Advisor, Author & Speaker.
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡What makes sales more about problem-solving than just selling?
💡Why do early-stage founders struggle with commercializing their products?
💡How does a strong value proposition enhance communication and sales?
💡What role do expertise and honesty play in building trust in sales?
and many more...
About our guests:
Zoltan has closed $2 billion in B2B sales over his 30-year global career as a C-suite executive, entrepreneur, and investor. Also, he led a $150 million revenue business across 30 countries as Senior Vice President of Global Sales at NBC Universal International.
You can find Zoltan here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoltanvardy/?originalSubdomain=uk
Website: https://zoltanvardy.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Reconnecting and Introduction
03:12 Zoltan's Career Journey
05:57 Corporate to Entrepreneurship Transition
09:12 Challenges for Early-Stage Founders
11:55 Shifting Mindsets in Sales
15:01 Crafting a Strong Value Proposition
17:58 Customer Feedback and Iteration
20:59 Effective Outreach Strategies
23:55 Navigating the Sales Process
26:48 Identifying the Right Customers
30:02 Building a Sustainable Business
37:24 Cold Calling: A Controversial Approach
44:43 Establishing Trust in Sales
49:33 Leveraging LinkedIn for Sales Success
01:01:13 Mastering Time Management in Sales
01:08:32 Cultivating a Sales-Oriented Company Culture
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #211, we welcomed Peter Hopwood, Pitch, Speaker & Storytelling Coach.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡How storytelling is essential for effective communication.
💡What makes the journey of a speaker one of constant learning and adaptation?
💡How public speaking anxiety can be managed through understanding and preparation.
💡What makes networking crucial for both speakers and event organizers?
and many more...
About our guests:
Peter is a Pitch, Speaker & Storytelling Coach who helps executives, speakers, founders, and global teams define, craft, and deliver compelling stories. He empowers them to connect effectively, take control of their narrative, and create a lasting impact.
As a global LIVE events MC, Peter shapes high-profile stage experiences, having hosted over 500 international events. He brings events to life, ensuring they align seamlessly with the organizer’s objectives.
You can find Peter here:
LinkedIn: https://hr.linkedin.com/in/peterhopwoodpublicspeaking
Website: https://www.peter-hopwood.com/
Chapters:
00:00 The Origin Story of a Dynamic Duo
02:59 The Art of Storytelling and Engagement
05:57 From Theater to Public Speaking
09:07 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship
11:58 Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking
14:46 The Importance of Preparation
18:01 Understanding Audience Connection
21:10 The Role of Confidence in Speaking
23:59 Crafting Memorable Experiences
27:05 The Preparation Process for Keynotes
29:53 Navigating Public Speaking Anxiety
33:06 Finding Your Unique Speaking Style
41:25 Preparing for the Stage
44:18 The Role of Humor in Speaking
49:59 Understanding the Audience
53:36 The Importance of Networking
01:00:13 The Power of Storytelling
01:10:52 The Business of Speaking
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #210 we welcomed Theo Smith, founder of Neurodiversity at Work.Listen to this episode and learn:💡What neurological variations are encompassed by neurodiversity?💡How awareness of neurodiverse traits can lead to transformative changes.💡The environment's role in how neurodiverse individuals function.💡How important is context switchingand many more...About our guests:Theo is the co-founder of Neurodiversity World, a company that helps clients create inclusive and thriving neuro-inclusive work environments. With over 15 years of experience in recruitment, talent, and diversity, he is passionate about driving innovation, performance, and productivity through neurodiversity.He is also an award-winning author of Neurodiversity at Work, a LinkedIn Top Voice, and a podcast host of Neurodiversity with Theo Smith, where he shares lived experiences and expertise on neurodiversity.You can find Theo here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theosmithuk/Website: https://neurodiversityatwork.co.uk/Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!__________Website:https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #209 we welcomed Melissa Rosenthal, co-founder of Outlever.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡How Melissa has transitioned from executive roles to co-founding her own company, Outlever.
💡How to maintain transparency while shielding teams from excessive pressure
💡How can executives manage immense pressure to perform efficiently and adapt to rapid changes, especially with AI integration?
💡Does gaining experience and trusting oneself help in building confidence for decision-making?
and many more...
About our guests:
Melissa is a media and tech executive building a platform to counter the frustrations she has faced throughout her career.
Previously, she was the CCO of ClickUp, CMO of Insight Timer, CRO of Cheddar, and VP, Creative at BuzzFeed. She has been featured in Forbes' 30 Under 30, Business Insider’s 30 Most Creative People Under 30, and Digiday's "Changemakers.
You can find Melissa here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissarosenthal5/
Website: https://melissajrosenthal.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Melisssa's background
03:11 Transitioning to Foundership
06:06 Challenges for Executives in 2025
09:05 Leadership Style and Team Management
12:06 The Pressure of Executive Roles
14:57 Super Bowl Ad Experience
20:58 Maintaining Focus Under Pressure
23:46 Building Confidence and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
31:51 Finding Balance in Startup Life
35:25 Mindful Productivity and Focus
43:02 Evolving Leadership Styles
47:22 Building a Growing Company
54:08 The Interplay of Product and Marketing
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #208 we welcomed Rob Krecak, Co-founder and CFO of Popular Agent.
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡How the 10-time founder Rob Krecak built a healthy relationship with technology
💡What can you do to overcome the addition to your phone
💡How can you take control and boost your productivity
💡Practical tips to build up the right habits and free up tons of time and mental space
and many more...
About our guests:
Rob Krecak, by title, is a fractional CFO and business owner, but he is also an advisor, mentor, consultant, coach, thrill-seeker, self-professed nerd, question-asker, voracious reader, competitor, keynote speaker, and business builder.
He possesses a rare combination of in-depth finance and entrepreneurial acumen, which helps clients identify and fix pressing business challenges inhibiting success.
For five years, he worked on Wall Street as a sell-side equity analyst, where he acquired detailed knowledge of understanding a business through thoughtful questions and analysis. He also earned the CFA Charterholder designation, furthering his financial skills. After Wall Street, he became a nine-time entrepreneur with companies that won multiple customer service and operations awards.
He is the co-founder and CFO of Popular Agent, where he specializes in transforming website traffic into revenue through full-service implementation of AI sales agents.
In his spare time, he likes to work out and better himself through reading, traveling, and spending time with his wife, Niki, and son, Kayden.
You can find Rob here:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robkrecak
Website: https://www.humansfirst.us/about
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #207 we welcomed Peter Sandberg, Founding Partner and Managing Director of Nordic Secondary Fund (N2F).
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast on your favorite platform 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8yMGVmMmZmYy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡How to become a master in meeting and befriending people
💡How to create a personal CRM system and organize all contacts in there
💡How to network effectively during a conference or a business event
💡What makes a difference in creating and keeping high-profile relationships
and many more...
About our guest:
Peter is the Founding Partner and Managing Director of Nordic Secondary Fund (N2F), founded in 2018, being the first and only fund in the Nordics to exclusively invest in secondaries only.
N2F has raised 2 funds in the past 5 years, in total €140M, having done +40 secondary deals, and 5 exits in the belt.
Prior to N2F, Peter had +35 years of experience in Investment Banking and Asset Management, including founding 2 asset management companies, both with impressive exits. Also, he made 35 pre-seed and seed investments as a Business Angel in 2016-2018, where an additional 8 exits have been done.
You can find Peter here:
LinkedIn: https://dk.linkedin.com/in/petersandbergn2f
Website: https://www.n2f.vc/
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
🚀 In episode #206 we welcomed Thomas Pisar, Former Director at A1 Telekom.
Subscribe to Productivity Mastery Podcast on your favorite platform 👇
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DHrGKvqCduaXrEHrHazAR?si=92e8b757ef55433b
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/productivity-mastery/id1514614289
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8yMGVmMmZmYy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==
Listen to this episode and learn:
💡Examples and learnings from 18+ years at A1 Telekom
💡What leads to a successful corporate transformation
💡What are the biggest challenges for an organization to commit to transformation
💡How to create innovation-driven culture, and remove fear mindset
and many more...
About our guests:
Thomas Pisar is a keynote speaker, consultant, physicist, and has many years of experience as a manager in the telecommunications technology industry.
As a CIO, he has led hundreds of employees, managed small strategic areas with significant leverage, and successfully implemented large, innovative transformations.
He is passionate about sharing the insights gained from the constructive combination of physics and management with others.
You can find Thomas here:
LinkedIn: https://at.linkedin.com/in/dr-thomas-pisar-54108019
Website: https://thomas-pisar.com/
Enjoy listening and #KeepPERFORMing!
__________
Website:
https://stoyanyankov.com/podcast/
