Beyond Performance: How to Show Up Authentically in Your Brand and Life with Lisa McGuire
🔗 Episode Summary:
In this episode, Elaine sits down with Lisa McGuire, an Authenticity Architect and Reinvention Strategist, to explore what it truly means to build a brand — and a life — rooted in identity, not performance. Lisa shares her Four Rs framework for rediscovering your voice, insights on journaling as a tool for transformation, and how Human Design can help you operate in alignment with your true self.
Whether you're building a business, creating content, or navigating a personal reinvention, this conversation will inspire you to trade the script for something real — and powerful.
🔑 What You’ll Learn:
🧠 Key Takeaways:
“Performance is exhausting. Authenticity feels comfortable and real.”
“You don’t have to reveal everything — just enough to build connection.”
“Journaling is not a chore. It’s a doorway.”
👤 Guest Bio:
Lisa McGuire is an Authenticity Architect, Reinvention Strategist, speaker, and podcast host. She helps entrepreneurs and leaders reconnect with who they are and translate that clarity into their personal brand and business. Through her proprietary frameworks and Human Design integration, Lisa helps people show up with clarity, confidence, and resonance.
Connect with Lisa:
📌 Episode Resources:
🎧 Listen + Subscribe:
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An epic journey with Christine Sadry
Summary
Christine Sadry discusses her memoir “Thirteen Years Lost” which chronicles her journey from leaving Poland at age nine to becoming a UN diplomat. She shares her experiences of early trauma, including losing her mother at five and a difficult adoption in America, followed by a thirteen-year separation from her family. The conversation explores her remarkable career at the UN, including working in war zones, learning to drive tanks, and meeting her husband in Mozambique. Throughout the interview, Sadry emphasizes the importance of taking risks, embracing opportunities, and the healing power of sharing one’s story.
Guests
Topics discussed
Key Takeaways
Notable Quotes
Entities Mentioned
Keywords
memoir, diplomacy, immigration, healing, transformation, resilience, international relations, peacekeeping, cultural adaptation, personal growth
Get the book
Experience an extraordinary journey of resilience and transformation through Christine Sadry’s award-winning memoir “Thirteen Years Lost.” From Polish orphan to UN diplomat, her story proves that with courage and determination, you can overcome any obstacle and create an extraordinary life. Let her inspiring journey motivate you to take those crucial risks that could transform your own life.
Ta-Da! Leadership: How Joy, Improv, and Celebration Fuel Better Teams with Joel Zeff
What happens when you bring laughter, improv, and a whole lot of heart into leadership? You get Joel Zeff. In this episode, Joel joins Elaine Acker to talk about the power of “Ta-Da!” moments, how celebration drives confidence, and why fun is not just nice to have—it’s essential to great leadership.
From the improv stage to the keynote spotlight, Joel shares how small wins, positive support, and ownership can transform the way we lead and collaborate. Plus, he pulls back the curtain on his writing process, the real story behind his bestselling book, Make the Right Choice, and why starting is the hardest—and most important—step for any author.
🗣️ What You’ll Learn:
📌 Resources & Mentions:
🔥 Quote of the Episode:
“Everybody has a story. Everybody has something to share that can guide or inspire others.” — Joel Zeff
🙌 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or connect with Elaine on LinkedIn. And don’t forget to celebrate your own Ta-Da moments today—you’ve earned it.
Go For No: Rewriting the Rules of Rejection with Andrea Waltz
Andrea Waltz discusses the 25th anniversary sequel to her bestselling book Go For No and explores how embracing rejection leads to success. She shares insights about the new book’s storyline featuring a 20-year-old protagonist, discusses the evolution of the Go For No philosophy, and offers practical advice about overcoming fear of rejection. The conversation covers publishing insights, storytelling techniques, and how the principles apply beyond sales to areas like education, leadership, and personal growth.
Guests
• Andrea Waltz - Co-author of the bestselling book ‘Go For No’ and its sequel. Along with her husband Richard Fenton, she’s known for transforming how people think about rejection and failure in business and life.
Topics discussed
• The philosophy behind ‘Go For No’
• Writing and publishing Go For No: The Sequel
• Overcoming fear of rejection
• Storytelling in business books
• Self-publishing insights
• Building resilience in young professionals
• Reframing failure and success
• The power of asking and persistence
Key Takeaways
• Success often requires embracing and actively seeking rejection
• Only the customer should end the sale, not the salesperson
• Stop giving yourself a ‘no’ before others have the chance
• Perfectionism often prevents people from taking action
• Focus on the process rather than just the outcome
• Creating ‘no awareness’ helps achieve bigger goals
Notable Quotes
• “Stop talking yourself out of opportunities. Stop saying no to yourself.” — Andrea Waltz
• “It’s one thing to get that no… But you don’t want your head hitting the pillow thinking, I wonder what would have happened if I had just gone up and asked.” — Andrea Waltz
• “The secret is when you see other people getting ahead… somewhere along the way, they made a choice to just play differently.” — Andrea Waltz
Links
• Go for No! The Sequel (book)
• Sell Well Conference in Houston
Keywords
rejection, sales, resilience, mindset, persistence, storytelling, publishing, failure, success, courage
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
Your Hidden Advantage: Breaking the Broken Cookie Effect with Patty Block
Business advisor Patty Block discusses how women business owners often undervalue their services and sacrifice their own interests, a pattern she calls the “broken cookie effect.” She explains strategies for value-based pricing, building business value, and preparing for potential exits. Patty emphasizes the importance of standardizing pricing models and operations while maintaining business stability. She shares insights from her book Your Hidden Advantage and her experience helping women position their businesses for successful exits.
Guests
Patty Block - Business advisor, author of ‘Your Hidden Advantage,’ and creator of the Broken Cookie Effect. She helps women business owners optimize pricing, positioning, and exit planning, drawing from nearly 20 years of experience working with professional service companies.
Topics discussed
• The Broken Cookie Effect and women’s tendency to self-sacrifice in business
• Value-driven pricing strategies
• Building business value for potential exits
• Common myths about growing a business
• Balancing secrecy and stability during exit planning
• The importance of standardization in business operations
• Women’s unique challenges in business exits
• The three acts of women’s professional lives
Key Takeaways
• Value-based pricing should replace hourly rates to better reflect the true worth of services
• Standardizing pricing models makes discussions less personal and more strategic
• Business valuations early in the exit process can be costly and ineffective
• Building a sellable business requires intentional planning and structure
• Women often need to overcome generational conditioning about business ownership
• Exit planning typically requires about five years of preparation
• Maintaining business stability while planning an exit is crucial
Notable Quotes
• “Putting yourself last doesn’t serve anyone.” — Patty Block
• “It’s not about how much time you’re spending on something. It’s about the value that you’re bringing to the client.” — Patty Block
• “We are shocked because if it’s a fair offer, the amount of money is a validation.” — Patty Block
• “Women don’t retire. We always go on to our next thing.” — Patty Block
Quick Links
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
Making Work Fun Again with Jake Brown: ADHD, Bad Bosses, and the Power of Doodling
Author, coach, and self-proclaimed workplace fun-bringer Jake Brown joins Elaine for a refreshingly honest and wildly insightful conversation. From surviving toxic bosses to teaching thousands how to doodle their way into hyperfocus, Jake shares practical tools and laugh-out-loud stories for thriving at work—especially if you think a little differently. Whether you lead a team or lead yourself, this episode will leave you energized, empowered, and maybe a little more doodle-happy.
0:00 Welcome + Meet Jake Brown
2:03 Why Fun is a Survival Skill
5:20 The Conference Moment That Changed Everything
8:40 Doodling for Dopamine: Why It Works
13:45 Skeptics Welcome: When Weird Works
18:10 How “Coworking Calls” Changed One Company’s Culture
21:40 The Book That Almost Wasn’t
27:10 Storytelling with Heart and Humor
31:35 The W.I.P.E. Framework for Work (and Life)
37:15 When You’re the Bad Boss (To Yourself)
42:00 Real Talk About Trust, Delegation, and Managing Up
47:00 Current Reads + Inspired Recommendations
50:40 How to Work with Jake (or Just Get a Good Laugh)
Resources:
Whether you’re stuck in a toxic job or just trying to make your workday feel a little less overwhelming, Jake reminds us that fun is fuel, stories are strategy, and even the messiest jobs can lead to something meaningful.
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
Turning Years of Experience Into a Valuable Resource with Bruce Rosenthal
Looking to harness the full potential of corporate sponsorships? Join Elaine as she sits down with Bruce Rosenthal, author of 'Mastering Association Corporate Sponsorships.' Discover how Bruce leveraged decades of experience to transform how associations engage with corporate sponsors. They explore the evolving landscape of sponsorships, from year-long engagements to the impact of COVID-19, and the shift from transactional relationships to strategic partnerships. Learn how actionable strategies and deep industry insights from Bruce's new book can help associations drive revenue and deliver member value. Whether you're an association leader or a corporate partner, this conversation reveals how to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in today's competitive environment.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:44 Challenges Facing Associations
03:22 Shift in Corporate Sponsorships
04:07 Impact of COVID on Sponsorships
05:52 Educate to Sell: A New Approach
11:03 Writing the Book: Inspiration and Process
18:51 Case Studies and Real-World Applications
32:12 Final Thoughts and Opportunities
Resources:
Mastering Association Corporate Sponsorships by Bruce Rosenthal
Connect with Bruce on LinkedIn
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
How does a writer turn everyday experiences into bestselling novels? Join us as we chat with Susan Wiggs, the acclaimed author of over 50 novels, including favorites like 'The Apple Orchard' and 'The Lost and Found Bookshop.' Susan shares her insights on the writer's journey, the power of storytelling, and the elements of fiction that nonfiction writers can use to enhance their work. We dive into her inspirations, discuss the creativity sparked by her daily life, and get a sneak peek into her upcoming novel 'Wayward Girls,' which explores the true horrors of Magdalene Laundries. Plus, Susan offers a heartwarming look at the importance of human connections, both in her narratives and in her life. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this conversation is full of valuable advice and inspiration.
00:00 Introduction to Susan Wiggs
01:30 Elements of Fiction for Nonfiction Writers
05:24 The Writing Process and Daily Routine
11:09 Early Writing and Career Evolution
15:01 New Book: Wayward Girls
24:19 Personal Inspirations and Future Projects
27:24 Favorite Bookstores and Hobbies
32:52 Advice for Aspiring Writers
35:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Resources:
Join Susan’s mailing list and stay up-to-date on new releases!
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
How do you find and capture the unseen beauty of the wild? Wyman Meinzer, the official state photographer of Texas, shares his remarkable journey from a degree in wildlife management to publishing iconic images in prestigious magazines like National Geographic and Smithsonian. Discover the biggest obstacles he faced, how the rise of digital photography transformed his career, and why his powerful imagery continues to resonate. Join us as we delve into his inspiring stories, the essence of Texas’ rolling plains, and the poetic storytelling behind his captivating photographs.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:43 Wyman Meinzer's Early Career and Challenges
03:08 Life in the Rolling Plains
04:31 Transition to Real Estate Photography
08:10 Collaborations and Writing Journey
11:58 Advice for Aspiring Photographers and Writers
17:52 Memorable Moments and Reflections
23:23 Love for History and Final Thoughts
Resources:
https://www.instagram.com/wymanmeinzer/
https://www.facebook.com/wymanmeinzer/
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
What happens when you or your company is going through a crisis? How do you communicate with customers and your team? Join us as we sit down with Kristi Piehl, the founder and CEO of Media Minefield. Kristi shares her journey from Emmy award-winning TV news reporter to successful entrepreneur. Learn key insights about managing crisis situations, the importance of proactive planning, and the role of authenticity in communication. Kristi also shares personal anecdotes, including her own son's battle with cancer and how it shaped her social media presence. Don't miss Kristi's expert advice on leveraging thought leadership and building a personal brand that resonates with your audience.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:23 Crisis Communication Strategies
04:27 Common Mistakes in Crisis Management
07:30 From Journalism to PR: Kristi's Journey
11:01 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Lessons
16:52 Leadership and People-First Philosophy
21:41 Thought Leadership and Social Media
28:47 Personal Story: Impact of Social Media
33:06 Upcoming Book and Final Thoughts
Resources:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristipiehl/
https://www.media-minefield.com/
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to Writing & Influence Newsletter. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
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Are you struggling to navigate a business transition or feeling stuck with your current branding? Meet Sarah Sears, the visionary founder of S Design, who's been pivotal in shaping the look and feel of iconic sites in Oklahoma City and the state's branding. Learn how Sarah combines design, strategy, and mentorship to help businesses manage growth and change. From launching Oklahoma's AIGA chapter to working on complex branding projects, Sarah's insights into the power of consistent brand perception, the importance of understanding your audience, and the nuances of color selection will inspire you. Discover her journey, her exciting involvement with the upcoming LA Olympics, and her holistic approach to branding that aligns business strategy with visual identity. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a large organization, Sarah's grounded yet creative methods will provide you with actionable takeaways to elevate your brand.
00:00 Introduction to Sarah Sears
00:29 Sarah's Impact on Oklahoma City
02:27 Sarah's Role in the LA Olympics
04:18 Branding Strategies for Businesses in Transition
06:24 Case Studies and Real-World Examples
13:44 The Emotional Side of Branding
16:50 Color Theory and Practical Branding Tips
23:43 When to Consider a Rebrand
28:13 The Importance of Internal Brand Alignment
32:14 Sarah's Personal Interests and Closing Remarks
Resources:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahsears/
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to subscribe to the Cover-to-Cover Influence email series. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
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What if the biggest obstacle to your success is your own fear? On this episode I’m joined by Scott Ballard, a leadership coach, entrepreneur, and author who turned his childhood struggles with dyslexia into a career of empowering others. From coaching CEOs and NFL players to making strides in personal growth, Scott shares the transformative power of encouragement and how he helps individuals confront and conquer their fears. Discover how Scott's own journey led him to write the book 'The Biggest Disability is a Bad Attitude' and how he's inspired countless others to break through their limits. Learn practical steps to shift from fear to courage and the importance of embracing joy in the journey. If you're ready to unlock new opportunities and reach your full potential, this conversation is a game changer.
00:00 Introduction to Scott Ballard
01:14 Scott's Journey and Discovering His Superpower
02:36 Overcoming Fear and Building Courage
03:51 Personal Breakthroughs and Coaching Experiences
08:02 Scott's Business Transformation
12:21 Writing and Publishing a Book with Dyslexia
28:12 The Power of Joy and Gratitude
35:42 Final Thoughts and Parting Words
Resources:
https://www.confidencecoach.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ballard-a3250422/
The challenge for many businesses in today’s market is not just being seen but being remembered. Sparx360 Publishing turns business leaders into thought leaders with a proven process for writing and publishing that helps elevate their brand. We'll help you turn your ideas into words, and words into engaging content, including books, cookbooks, blogs, sales pages, and more. Finding the right words that effortlessly connect with customers can be easy!
Invite your friends and colleagues to subscribe to the Cover-to-Cover Influence email series. It's a bi-monthly series that includes valuable tips for elevating your brand with content, and free resources that will help you make more sales and increase revenues.
And Connect with Elaine on LinkedIn!
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