About Kevin Surace: Kevin Surace is a Silicon Valley innovator, serial entrepreneur, CEO, TV personality, and edutainer featured by major outlets such as Businessweek, Time, Fortune, Forbes, CNN, and FOX News. He has keynoted hundreds of events, including TED, INC5000, and the U.S. Congress, earning titles like INC Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year and CNBC’s Innovator of the Decade. With 93 worldwide patents, he is celebrated for his dynamic, entertaining presentations that educate and energize audiences. His pioneering work spans AI virtual assistants, smartphones, sustainable building technologies, and major energy retrofits like the Empire State Building. He also directs and produces Broadway and streaming projects and delivers popular talks on AI, innovation, and digital transformation customized for any audience. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Kevin Surace discuss: The fusion of creativity and artificial intelligence Technology’s transformation of art, media, and business Democratization of creative production through AI The tension between live experience and digital automation Leadership and communication in an AI-driven world Key Takeaways: AI can now generate professional-quality creative work—such as full songs or films—in a fraction of the traditional time and cost. The entertainment and advertising industries are rapidly shifting toward AI-generated production and personalization. Automation is inevitable across business functions, with resistance often stemming from fear, not lack of capability. Live human connection remains valuable, but convenience and accessibility will continue to drive mass adoption of AI experiences. "The machines always win. You can sabotage, and you'll maybe extend something for a few months, but eventually, management is going to say, you know, this particular task can be done by AI.” — Kevin Surace Connect with Kevin Surace:  Website: https://www.kevinsurace.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kskoolstuff LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ksurace/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/kevinsurace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kevin_surace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.surace/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinsurace/ Book Kevin today to start a conversation about working together: https://www.kevinsurace.com/book-kevin See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Lewis Crompton: Lewis Crompton is the Founder and CEO of STARTrading, a global education company helping professionals create financial freedom through smart, time-efficient trading. After being mentored by Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad team—and later invited to teach for them—Lewis launched STARTrading in 2019 to help others achieve peace of mind and flexibility around money. With more than a decade of trading experience and six years of teaching, he’s guided thousands of students worldwide to build passive income, exit traditional careers, and reclaim time for what matters most. His work and approach to safe, systematic trading have been featured by Bloomberg and other major outlets. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Lewis Crompton discuss: Mindset and emotional relationship with money Financial freedom through trading and education Purpose-driven leadership and family stability Community and support in wealth building Navigating financial markets and crypto volatility Key Takeaways: Recognizing how early beliefs about money shape your sense of worth can help you rebuild a healthier, more empowered financial mindset. Lewis’s “Star Trading Method” shows that with the right skills, financial growth and security can come from consistency rather than constant risk or time investment. True financial freedom begins when money becomes a tool for peace and stability within families rather than a source of stress or conflict. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community of learners and traders can transform isolation into confidence and long-term success. "One of the biggest, if not the biggest, reason why families break down and divorces happen is because of financial stress, financial worry, financial differences.” — Lewis Crompton Connect with Lewis Crompton: Website: https://startradingnow.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@withlewiscrompton LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewiscrompton/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/startradingnow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startrading_community/ & https://www.instagram.com/withlewiscrompton/

About Neelam Harjani: Neelam Harjani, founder of Inspire Wellness, is recognized as a wellbeing expert across Asia and the Middle East, offering an antidote to busy lifestyles through personalized coaching in Lifestyle Medicine. A former investment banker, she now works with multinational corporations to counter the effects of chronic stress. With 20 years of experience, her systematic approach helps individuals build sustainable energy, promote resilience, and enhance emotional regulation through self-awareness and practical calming techniques. Neelam has authored books on burnout, led online programs, hosted wellness workshops, and facilitated retreats focused on leadership development and personal transformation. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Neelam Harjani discuss: Global views on wellness are shaped by culture and economy Emotional and physical impact of chronic stress Materialism and the illusion of scarcity Mindfulness and reconnection with self Financial well-being is tied to resilience and balance Key Takeaways: Chronic stress and burnout are intensified in economically booming cities where ambition and competition replace balance and community. True wellness begins with awareness and acceptance—learning to observe emotions like stress or anger instead of resisting them. Financial pressure, whether real or perceived, often drives people into survival mode, disconnecting them from joy and safety. Cultivating daily moments of stillness and self-connection builds a reservoir of resilience that no external achievement or purchase can match. "When you feel at ease and at peace with yourself, then no matter how bad the traffic is, there's a reservoir to go back to." — Neelam Harjani Connect with Neelam Harjani: Website and Books: http://www.inspire-wellness.com/ & https://neelamharjani.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelam-harjani/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neelamharjani/

About W. David Prescott and Michael Ashley: W. David Prescott is a veteran geologist and environmental consultant with over 30 years of experience in groundwater protection, remediation, and regulatory compliance. Licensed in Texas and Wyoming, he holds advanced degrees in Environmental Science and Business and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Agricultural Science. A champion of market-driven sustainability, he serves on community and state boards shaping policies that balance environmental health with economic growth. Michael Ashley is a former Disney story consultant, Chapman University screenwriting professor, and author of 20+ books, including four bestsellers. He coauthored Own the A.I. Revolution, which was launched at the UN’s AI for Good Summit and recognized as a top business book of 2019. A columnist for Forbes and Entrepreneur, his work has been widely featured, and he is a sought-after keynote speaker on AI, storytelling, and innovation. In this episode, Dean, W. David, and Michael discuss: The evolution of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) from shareholder to stakeholder capitalism Penalties and financial consequences for companies not meeting ESG standards Global competition in energy and AI between the U.S., China, and India Risks of programmable money and digital currencies on personal and business freedom The framing of today’s global tensions as a “spiritual war” between control and freedom Key Takeaways: ESG shifted from a voluntary “carrot” to a mandatory “stick,” with companies losing access to capital or suffering stock devaluation if they fail to comply. U.S. energy companies saw Wall Street investment in energy drop from 16–18% to just 3% by 2000 due to ESG pressures, while China and India rapidly expanded hydrocarbon and nuclear production. The U.S. is falling behind in AI and energy infrastructure, as China currently has 28 nuclear plants under construction while the U.S. has none. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) could one day enforce ESG compliance by shutting off funds for companies or individuals exceeding government-imposed environmental thresholds. "Imagine us playing chess against China, and China having an IQ of 10,000 while we’re sitting there with an IQ of 100.” — W. David Prescott "America is not an evil country. In fact, America is the best country the world has ever seen, and we want to export these ideas of freedom that are different from China.” — Michael Ashley Connect with W. David and Michael:  Website: https://creativedestruction.gr-site.com/ Book: Creative Destruction: https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Destruction-Mandates-Destroying-Capitalism/dp/B0D64WSNP9 W. David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/w-david-prescott-p-g-b1600714/ Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelashleywriter/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Brad Farris: Brad Farris is a trusted leadership advisor for businesses looking to break the $1M barrier and scale to $3M–$5M. He brings 20+ years of experience helping business owners sharpen focus, increase profitability, and build stronger teams. Brad brings decades of experience coaching founders through the common challenges that stall growth, especially when the bottleneck is the leader themselves. His bold but empathetic approach helps founders shift from over-functioning doers to strategic leaders. Brad has offered listeners to explore their awareness around being present through this free and easy assessment: https://anchoradvisors.com/self-leadership-assessment/ In this episode, Dean Newlund and Brad Farris discuss: The importance of presence in leadership and productivity The concept of urgency addiction and its impact on decision-making Email and meeting management as reflections of leadership habits True listening as a foundation for trust and collaboration Self-leadership, reflection, and cultivating flow for creativity Key Takeaways: By slowing down and providing thoughtful, complete responses, email exchanges become shorter and more effective, reducing inbox overwhelm and freeing up time for higher-value work. The constant pursuit of speed and urgency can create an addictive cycle that feels rewarding in the moment but ultimately drains creativity, damages collaboration, and weakens relationships. Leaders who intentionally restructure their calendars to include fewer or more spacious meetings create the mental space necessary for presence, deeper reflection, and sustained problem-solving. Practicing intentional, focused listening helps people feel valued and understood, which not only reduces conflict but also builds trust and empowers teams to act independently and effectively. "The present moment is the place where we can act… It’s actually kind of a productivity superpower.” — Brad Farris Connect with Brad Farris:  Website: https://www.anchoradvisors.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradfarris/ Business Growth Phase Assessment: https://anchoradvisors.com/accelerate-your-business-growth/

About Dr. Laura Gallaher: Dr. Laura Gallaher is a professional speaker and organizational psychologist who inspires driven self-starters to transform their relationship with themselves and accomplish more than ever. She combines insights on radical self-acceptance with humor to create a unique connection with her audience. Despite being a national best-selling author, Dr. Laura stands out from the typical "academic" personality of her PhD peers. Her notable achievements include being hired by NASA to reshape organizational culture after the Columbia accident, leading significant changes in performance management at Disney, and inspiring Yahoo’s global teams to pursue transformation from within. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Dr. Laura Gallaher discuss: NASA’s organizational culture and its role in major space disasters The importance of psychological safety in high-stakes environments The conflict between intuition and evidence-based decision-making Leadership blind spots, self-awareness, and radical self-acceptance Building trust, collaboration, and vulnerability within teams Key Takeaways: NASA’s culture contributed to the Columbia tragedy by discouraging engineers from voicing concerns without hard data. Congress required NASA to undergo a culture change initiative before allowing shuttle flights to resume, embedding organizational development permanently at Kennedy Space Center. Dr. Laura’s personal 360-degree feedback revealed blind spots, such as unintentional “bullying intellectually,” which led her to embrace radical self-acceptance. Tools like collaboration contracts and vulnerability exercises helped leaders manage defensiveness, foster trust, and improve team dynamics. "When you have higher self acceptance, it creates a path for others to do the same… because when you have high self acceptance, you can be vulnerable… but vulnerability is courageous, and courage is contagious.” — Dr. Laura Gallaher Connect with Dr. Laura Gallaher:  Website: https://drlauragallaher.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-gallaher-phd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauragallaher/ Discover Your Self-Acceptance Score: https://selfacceptancequiz.com/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Michael Wenderoth: Frustrated that you’re not getting ahead at work, or having the impact you seek? The real reason holding you back will surprise you, says Michael Wenderoth, executive coach. His provocative insights, featured in Harvard Business Review, challenge conventional wisdom by confronting an uncomfortable truth: that embracing office politics and influence is essential to advancing your career. The award-winning author of Get Promoted, Michael has helped thousands of professionals re-examine their assumptions about power, politics, and authenticity to accelerate their careers, become more effective at work, and break glass ceilings, many of their own creation. Michael is on a mission to help people get ahead, without having to sell their souls in the process. Prior to becoming an executive coach, Michael served 20 years in senior roles, bringing breakthroughs to market in China, the US, and Europe. He holds an MBA from Stanford Business School and was trained as an executive coach at Columbia University. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Michael Wenderoth discuss: Networking and influence in leadership The role of authenticity and vulnerability Situational and adaptive leadership The intersection of AI and future leadership Career advancement and organizational politics Key Takeaways: Many capable leaders are overlooked because they avoid networking and political skills, which are crucial for advancement. Influence and power are neutral tools that can be used ethically, yet many “good people” resist using them due to negative associations. Overemphasizing authenticity and vulnerability without strategic awareness can leave leaders exposed and even derailed. AI has the potential to both reduce bias and amplify existing organizational problems, making hybrid human-AI leadership a necessity. "Power and influence are like fire. Fire is nothing more than a force, and you can use it to burn the whole place down, but you could also use it to feed the entire village and illuminate the entire city.” — Michael Wenderoth Connect with Michael Wenderoth:  Website: https://changwenderoth.com Book: Get Promoted: https://changwenderoth.com/book/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelchangwenderoth/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/mcwenderoth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mwenderoth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wenderoth.michael/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Greg Giuliano: Dr. Greg Giuliano is an advisor and executive coach to senior leaders and teams all over the world. He is the founder of GA | Ultra Leadership, designing leadership and team development strategies that drive organizational transformation. His mission is to help leaders and teams grow their capacity to enable positive disruption for organizations, teams, and individuals. Greg is the author of three #1 Amazon Bestsellers—Coaching for (a) Change, The Next Normal, and Ultra Leadership—as well as The Hero’s Journey. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Greg Giuliano discuss: The future of leadership in a digital and AI-driven world Building meaningful workplace relationships and trust Engagement and intentional connection as drivers of performance The role of play, creativity, and psychological safety in teams Leadership as service, coaching, and collective growth Key Takeaways: Technology can enhance productivity, but true leadership still requires emotional intelligence, clear communication, and authentic human interaction. A practical framework for leadership is the “ABCs”: Align people around mission and roles, Build bench strength through ongoing development, and Coordinate action to keep progress moving. Teams that neglect engagement suffer higher turnover and burnout, while those that intentionally invest in connection and trust see stronger ROI and sustainable results. Leaders who encourage playfulness, fellowship, and intentional culture-building create environments where innovation thrives and people genuinely want to belong. "The future is still human, that it requires human beings connecting in order to get things done together.” — Greg Giuliano Connect with Greg Giuliano:  Website: https://www.ultraleadership.com/ Coaching for (a) Change: https://www.amazon.com/Coaching-Change-Engage-Empower-Activate/dp/B0DMTQFTFF Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Greg-Giuliano/author/B00K0Q5UY0 Be a GR8 Coach Program: https://www.ultraleadership.com/be-a-gr8-coach-program YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ultraleadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggiuliano/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Michael and Jennifer Petracci: Dr. Michael Petracci, DC, and Jennifer Petracci, co-owners of Foundations Chiropractic, turned their daughter’s neurological challenges into a mission of neurologically focused chiropractic care. A 2013 University of Western States graduate, Dr. Mike specializes in pediatric and prenatal care with multiple certifications, including Pediatric and Family Chiropractic and Activator Methods. As a PX Certified Pro Doc, he uses INSiGHT Scanning to help kids with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Sensory Processing Disorder. Jennifer, formerly an artist, became COO after their daughter’s “perfect storm” inspired her to champion this approach. She leads operations and education, helping families discover its impact. Together, they serve their community with neurologically focused care, creating a foundation for health and wellness that starts with the nervous system. In this episode, Dean Newlund, Michael, and Jennifer Petracci discuss: Starting and running a family business inspired by personal experience  Educating and building trust with families about neurologically focused chiropractic care  Overcoming skepticism and the challenge of parental commitment  Balancing emotional investment with the need to let go when families aren’t ready  Staying motivated and resilient by focusing on positive outcomes and “expecting miracles” Key Takeaways: Families seeking neurologically focused chiropractic care must commit to structured care plans with frequent visits, because only repetition and consistency allow the nervous system to rewire and regulate effectively. Educating families about chiropractic’s neurological benefits demands patience and clear communication, since many initially dismiss it as unnecessary or “snake oil” until they personally see results in their children. Practitioners need to balance their desire to help every child with the reality that some parents will not commit, which means learning to let go without guilt while focusing on those ready to embrace the process. Viewing each child’s transformation as a potential miracle keeps both parents and practitioners motivated, reframing frustration into gratitude and fueling the perseverance needed to sustain long-term impact. "One of the most important parts of taking care of somebody, from a neurologic perspective, is care planning, and making sure that the care plan is right… It takes repetition in neurology.” — Michael Petracci "A lot of what I see helps this to work is a trust in the other person.” — Jennifer Petracci Connect with Michael and Jennifer Petracci:  Website: http://www.foundationschiropracticllc.com/ Email: foundationswellness@yahoo.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/DrMikePetracci-FoundationsChiropracticllc Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/foundations.chiropractic.llc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foundationschiropracticllc/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Nathan Whittacre: CEO of Stimulus Technologies, Nathan Whittacre, is a visionary leader who has spent his three-decade career at the forefront of technological innovation and entrepreneurship. He is a trusted advisor, mentor, and thought leader in the technology field, and the author of The CEO’s Digital Survival Guide: A Practical Handbook to Navigating the Future. Stimulus Technologies is focused on providing the best technology to businesses, including IT services, Internet, and VoIP. Nathan’s passion lies in helping people better their lives through technology, cybersecurity, and intentional culture. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Nathan Whittacre discuss: The evolving role of AI in business and society Balancing human connection with technological efficiency Leadership strategies in the age of digital transformation The impact of AI adoption on workforce roles and subject matter expertise Ethical and practical considerations of AI in sensitive industries like healthcare Key Takeaways: While large enterprises like credit card companies have used AI for over a decade in areas such as fraud detection, most small and mid-sized businesses are still on the lower ramp of adoption, only beginning to see incremental ROI as vendors embed AI into everyday systems to ease mundane tasks. Nathan’s company experimented with replacing its outsourced after-hours call center with an AI agent, and although some customers were initially skeptical, the AI delivered faster and more accurate support than humans, ultimately providing a better overall customer experience. Leaders must resist the temptation to outsource or automate the very elements that make their company unique, instead focusing on strategically using AI to streamline non-core processes like ticket entry or document reviews while ensuring core functions remain human-driven. In healthcare and other sensitive industries, the future of AI adoption will rely heavily on HIPAA-compliant or private, specialized models designed for specific diagnostic support—such as radiology scans—since public large language models are not sufficient to meet strict security and compliance needs. "I like referring to your ChatGPTs, or Grok, or some of these language models that we’re using, are just really smart interns, very excited and smart interns.” — Nathan Whittacre Connect with Nathan Whittacre:  Website: https://www.stimulustech.com/ Book: The CEO’s Digital Survival Guide: A Practical Handbook to Navigating the Future: https://www.amazon.com/CEOs-Digital-Survival-Guide-Navigating/dp/1642256307 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanwhittacre/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/stimulus-technologies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nwhittacre See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Eric Recker: Dr. Eric Recker is a dentist, husband, father, keynote speaker, Elite Success Coach, author, pilot, mountain climber, and recovering triathlete. In the second half of life, he’s dedicated to helping others close the gap to their best selves and master the art of living in the moment—what he calls #WINtheNOW. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Eric Recker discuss: Why clarity of purpose must come before achievement Using small daily actions to build lasting resilience Embracing challenges as opportunities for personal growth Staying present and practicing gratitude in everyday life Applying the mountain-climbing metaphor to life’s mental and emotional obstacles Key Takeaways: Achievements feel richer and more sustainable when pursued with a clearly defined and deeply personal “why” rather than chasing goals for the sake of appearance, status, or external validation. Keeping a daily log of both small wins and the lessons learned from setbacks can train the brain to focus on the positive, build gratitude, and create a more balanced and resilient mindset over time. Incorporating simple “micro-resilience” practices—like a two-minute power pose, short mindful walks, or intentional deep breathing—can quickly shift energy and mindset, helping you recover focus throughout the day. Exploring new interests through small, low-risk experiments instead of waiting for the “perfect” passion to reveal itself allows you to discover what truly excites you and prevents years of feeling stuck in uncertainty. "If you don’t know why you’re climbing the mountain, you’re not going to find the answer at the top.” — Eric Recker Connect with Eric Recker:  Website: https://ericrecker.com Book: The False Sense of Urgency and How to #WINtheNOW: https://ericrecker.com/book-info/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-recker-583849278/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.recker.1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docrecker/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Andrea Liebross: Andrea is the go-to expert for high-achieving women entrepreneurs. She helps bold, ambitious women shift from thinking small and feeling overwhelmed to gaining the clarity, confidence, and freedom they crave—in both business and life. As a strategic business coach and life balance architect, Andrea believes the secret sauce to achieving big results comes down to two critical ingredients: solid systems and a powerful, expansive mindset. Andrea is an accomplished speaker, the author of the bestselling She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and Into the Extraordinary, and the host of the She Thinks Big Podcast. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Andrea Liebross discuss: Evolving expectations of modern CEOs and their mindset shifts Emotional alignment and the role of joy in leadership effectiveness Transitioning from operational execution to strategic vision Embracing uncertainty as a necessary element of growth The influence of clarity, belief, and intentionality in decision-making Key Takeaways: Andrea Liebross presents the TRUST framework as a mindset tool for big thinkers, encouraging leaders to explore their thought options, identify the real problem, embrace uncertainty, secure the right support, and move from passive learning to taking massive action. Many small business CEOs experience burnout from juggling every role, making it critical to shift into true leadership through intentional delegation and alignment with both business goals and personal values. Long-term leadership success comes from saying unapologetic yeses to opportunities that foster growth and firm noes to distractions, helping leaders conserve their time, energy, and clarity of purpose. When faced with chaos or transition, leaders gain power by creating clarity—separating facts from internal narratives—so they can make grounded decisions driven by belief rather than fear. "Joy comes from believing that you're capable and deserving of the success, not just hustling for it.” — Andrea Liebross Connect with Andrea Liebross: Website: https://andrealiebross.com/ Book: She Thinks Big: https://www.andrealiebross.com/books Show: She Thinks Big Podcast: https://www.andrealiebross.com/podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-liebross/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrealiebrosscoaching/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea.liebross.coaching/

About Ben Katt: Ben Katt is a transformation coach, meditation teacher, and storyteller. He is the author of THE WAY HOME: Discovering the Hero’s Journey to Wholeness at Midlife. Ben is a former ordained minister and leader at the On Being Project, and he currently provides end-of-life care as a volunteer hospice chaplain and teaches meditation in prisons as the founder of the WITHIN Project. He lives in Milwaukee, WI, with his wife and three children. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ben Katt discuss: The hero’s journey as a framework for transformation Spiritual practices for everyday life Burnout and inner alignment The power of listening to inner whispers Societal disruption as a collective call to change Key Takeaways: Ben Katt's moment of clarity came during a routine jog when he suddenly realized his high-performing life had become unsustainable, prompting a deeper spiritual reckoning that revealed he was losing connection with his own heart. The hero’s journey, adapted from Joseph Campbell’s monomyth, offers a universal but highly personal structure for individuals to navigate uncertainty, confront their shadows, and emerge with renewed purpose and clarity. Simple, accessible practices like inward-focused journaling, meditation, gratitude, and even subtracting distractions are powerful tools for fostering self-awareness, healing burnout, and reconnecting with authentic desire. Those who face material hardship often live closer to life’s raw truths and may possess deeper spiritual insight and joy, challenging the assumption that inner work is a luxury reserved for the privileged. "Joy is happiness that's not contingent on something else. It's that stable sense of contentedness that you carry through, no matter what adversity you're facing.” — Ben Katt Connect with Ben Katt:  Website: https://www.benjaminkatt.com/ Book: The Way Home: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Home-Discovering-Journey-Wholeness/dp/1250910447 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akabenkatt/ Substack: https://benkatt.substack.com/

About Kelly McDonald: Kelly McDonald is an acclaimed speaker who specializes in consumer trends and changing demographics. She is the president of McDonald Marketing and has authored four bestselling books on the customer experience, leadership, and marketing -- all from the standpoint of working with people "not like you". Her book, How to Work With and Lead People Not Like You has been on two bestseller lists. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Kelly McDonald discuss: Working with people different from ourselves Trust and psychological safety in teams The evolution of DEI language The role of communication in collaboration Human connection in a post-COVID workplace Key Takeaways: Vulnerability-based trust, which must be deliberately earned and reciprocated, is essential for teams to navigate differences effectively and unlock higher performance through deeper collaboration. Using clear, direct, and jargon-free language builds credibility and psychological safety within teams, enabling faster decision-making and stronger alignment across diverse perspectives. Although working with people who are different from us is inherently more challenging, those efforts consistently yield statistically better business outcomes, creativity, and engagement. As terms like DEI become politically charged, forward-thinking organizations are embracing timeless, inclusive language like “belonging” and “community” to maintain commitment while reducing friction. "Trust and vulnerability absolutely have to be earned, and they have to be cultivated, and they have to be reciprocated.” — Kelly McDonald Connect with Kelly McDonald: Website: https://www.mcdonaldmarketing.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellycmcdonald/ Book: How to Work With and Lead People Not Like You: https://www.amazon.com/How-Work-Lead-People-Like/dp/1119369959 X (Twitter): https://x.com/kellycmcdonald Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellycmcdonald Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly.mcdonald_speaker/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Chip Conley: Chip Conley is a renowned entrepreneur, best-selling author, and dynamic speaker celebrated for his innovative approach to leadership and hospitality. He founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, transforming a single boutique hotel into the second-largest boutique hotel brand in the United States. In 2013, he joined Airbnb as Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy, mentoring its Millennial founders and guiding the company to become the world’s most valuable hospitality brand. Inspired by his midlife journey and experiences, Chip co-founded the Modern Elder Academy (MEA) in 2018, the world’s first midlife wisdom school. Located in Baja California, MEA helps individuals navigate midlife transitions and cultivate a renewed sense of purpose. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Chip Conley discuss: Happiness, Wisdom, and Emotional Growth in the Second Half of Life The role of emotional intelligence in aging and leadership Cultivating awe and wisdom Redefining aging and the midlife experience Social infrastructure and community building Key Takeaways: The "U-curve of happiness" shows that after hitting a low point around age 47-50, people often experience increasing happiness due to emotional intelligence and growing contentment. Midlife can be seen as a chrysalis for personal transformation, offering opportunities to repurpose one’s life rather than succumbing to societal narratives of crisis. Viewing friendship as a practice, with intentional deep conversations and emotional openness, strengthens connections and provides resilience during challenges. Reframing aging involves shifting from a negative perception of decline to a positive focus on growth, allowing midlife to become a transformative period for cultivating wisdom, discovering purpose, and fostering meaningful connections. "Our painful life lessons are the raw material for our future wisdom.” — Chip Conley Connect with Chip Conley:  Website: https://chipconley.com/ & https://www.meawisdom.com/ Email: chip@chipconley.com Book: https://chipconley.com/my-books/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipconleysf/

About Greg Shove: Greg is the CEO of Section and a 6x founder and CEO of tech-powered companies that rode 3 previous tech waves—Internet, Cloud, and Mobile—with $250M in exits. He’s also a founder at Machine and Partners, an AI consultancy helping companies identify and prototype AI products, and Personal Math, a newsletter for professionals in their 30s and beyond. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Greg Shove discuss: AI’s ability to expose organizational dysfunction and enhance well-run systems How leaders must adapt their mindset to effectively integrate AI tools The growing influence of AI on coaching, learning, and professional development Shifting definitions of human experience in an increasingly AI-mediated world The ethical and strategic implications of AI usage in business environments Key Takeaways: Before implementing AI, leaders must audit internal workflows to ensure structured processes. Otherwise, AI will simply magnify existing chaos and inefficiency. Developing AI fluency through consistent, hands-on interaction builds confidence, especially for non-technical users, and lays the groundwork for meaningful integration into daily work. AI-driven role-playing and adaptive conversation tools are already replacing traditional, static training methods in soft skill development, especially in coaching and feedback scenarios. Creating shared AI “projects” loaded with company knowledge enables collaborative problem-solving, faster onboarding, and continuous organizational learning. "AI is going to be a truth serum for organizations, because... you're going to find out how broken your processes are.” — Greg Shove Connect with Greg Shove:  Website: https://www.sectionschool.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sectionschool & https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregshove/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Philippe Johnson: Philippe Johnson is a retired United States Air Force officer and advocate for principled and ethical leadership in public service. The son of a language teacher and career United States Army officer, he was raised in the United States, France, and Germany. During his 24 years on active duty, Lieutenant Colonel Johnson served as a fixed- and rotary-wing pilot, intelligence officer, and diplomat (military attaché), and was honored with the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, and the Air Medal with one oak leaf cluster. He also served on the staffs of two Air Force major commands as his final two assignments. Philippe received a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Florida and earned his master’s degree in public policy from the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Philippe Johnson discuss: Defining ethical leadership across diverse perspectives Navigating unprincipled loyalty in power dynamics Rebuilding trust in a post-COVID, virtual workplace Combating disinformation and the collapse of shared facts Aligning values and ethics within polarized environments Key Takeaways: Ethical leadership must be embedded in leadership training from the start of one’s career, or organizations risk producing senior leaders who cause significant harm. Self-interest and personality disorders (e.g., narcissism) are major contributors to non-compliance with ethical standards, both in military and corporate settings. Philippe’s book uses recent political leadership as a case study to highlight the consequences of unethical, incompetent, and self-serving leadership behaviors. The normalization of disinformation undermines democracy, as without agreed-upon facts, there’s no foundation for holding power accountable. "If you're lacking that ethical foundation from the very beginning… you're going to end up with senior leaders who, unfortunately, are not setting the example.” — Philippe Johnson Connect with Philippe Johnson:  Website: http://www.philippejohnson.com/ Book: What Hangs in the Balance: The Case for Principled, Ethical, Competent, and Courageously Selfless Leadership: https://www.amazon.com/What-Hangs-Balance-Principled-Courageously/dp/1637633491 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/formulaphil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philippe.johnson.52 See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Hugh Massie: Hugh Massie is the Executive Chairman and Founder of DNA Behavior International – the Behavior and Money Insights Company. As a Titan 100 CEO and renowned Behavioral Solutions Architect, he approaches every opportunity with the proven perspective that “behavior makes money.” Through his analytical approach and AI-driven technologies, Hugh helps growth-minded leaders build “category king” people-centric businesses that enhance decision-making, culture, and performance. His purpose is to empower people to align their natural, hard-wired talents and financial behaviors to create an Exponential Future with reduced stress. Hugh’s moonshot is to scale DNA Behavior’s AI-powered BeSci Tech Platform to inform over 1 billion people annually by 2030, increasing life, financial, and business longevity by 30+ years. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Hugh Massie discuss: Predictive insights from human behavior in leadership and business strategy Self-awareness and hardwired traits as drivers of leadership effectiveness Governance dynamics in enabling or constraining powerful executives Organizational resilience in the face of AI disruption and rapid innovation Behavioral economics as a tool for sustainable financial performance Key Takeaways: Behavior serves as a powerful leading indicator of future financial and cultural performance, allowing organizations to anticipate outcomes before they materialize in traditional reports. Digitally scanning leadership behavior using publicly available data enables predictive profiling at scale, offering strategic insights into executive decision-making styles without requiring formal assessments. Sustained business success is often linked to a balanced presence of six core behavioral traits, including results-driven, innovation-focused, fiscal control, financial prudence, and relationship engagement. When leadership strengths such as vision, influence, or risk-taking are left unchecked—particularly in environments with weak governance—they can backfire and lead to long-term brand erosion and internal dysfunction. "Your strengths, overplayed, can be a struggle and, if not attended to, become a weakness.” — Hugh Massie Connect with Hugh Massie:  Website: https://dnabehavior.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dnabehavior LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughmassie/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/HughMassie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hugh.massie/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hughmassie/

About David Hirschfeld: David Hirschfeld is a 35-year veteran of the software startup world whose journey began as a physics student at UCLA. He spent his early career at Computer Associates and Texas Instruments, then led software projects at Intel and Motorola. He launched his first successful startup software company, which grew to 800 customers in 22 countries, and sold it in 2000. David founded Tekyz Inc. in 2007 and spent 17 years working with over 70 startups, leading to his breakthrough insight into what makes software companies succeed or fail and inspiring the Launch 1st Method. This systematic approach reduces risks, costs, and time while minimizing investor dependence. When he's not transforming startups, David is a golfer, a woodworker, and a proud father of four successful sons who taught him his most valuable lesson: success follows patterns, but they're not always the ones you expect. In this episode, Dean Newlund and David Hirschfeld explore: Speed and implications of AI innovation Workflow automation and process redesign Modern approaches to product innovation and validation The future impact of autonomous vehicles User empowerment through advanced AI tools Key Takeaways: Automating outdated workflows without reevaluating their relevance can lead to inefficiency—some processes should be reinvented, not just automated. Instead of building products based on assumptions, companies should test the market through pre-sales to validate real demand before development. AI tools like ChatGPT's voice and vision modes can now provide real-time visual navigation, product identification, and contextual support in everyday situations. The rise of autonomous vehicles like Waymo may render parking structures and personal car ownership obsolete within five years, fundamentally shifting urban infrastructure needs. "You have to channel your inner five-year-old when you're thinking about what's possible.” — David Hirschfeld Connect with David Hirschfeld:  Website: https://www.tekyz.com & https://launch1st.tekyz.com Email: david@tekyz.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/ X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/tekyzinc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tekyzinc See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

About Michael Barbarita: Michael Barbarita has owned and operated retail, manufacturing, and service companies for over 30 years. One of the retail companies he operated, called “Ski Town USA,” grew from $2.5 million to $8.0 million in less than 5 years. One of the products he manufactured was “Cookies To Scoop Frozen Cookie Dough,” which was featured on the QVC Home Shopping Network and was selected as one of the top 20 products in the State of Massachusetts in 1997. He has sat on the Board of Directors of 5 different companies and was a Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer for a large specialty retailer, as well as for all of his previously owned companies. Michael has been involved in the structuring of leveraged buyouts, has experience in owning both commercial and residential investment real estate, exporting and doing business on a global scale, and is an award-winning public speaker and Published Co-author with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Michael Barbarita discuss: Strategic business and financial leadership Marketing psychology and customer engagement Small business growth strategies Sales conversion frameworks Cash flow and profitability planning Key Takeaways: The Conversion Formula—Captivate, Fascinate, Educate, Offer—provides a repeatable framework for connecting with prospects emotionally and logically, dramatically improving sales effectiveness when followed in the correct order. Implementing a risk reversal strategy like the “Ski Guarantee” not only eliminated customer hesitation but led to a 25% increase in sales with less than 0.2% product returns, proving that customer trust can be more profitable than tight control. Email drip campaigns that align with the buyer’s journey and apply the conversion formula to industry-specific pain points can significantly shorten the time it takes for prospects to move from awareness to purchase. A truly strategic CFO brings more than financial oversight—they integrate differentiated, actionable strategies that competitors overlook, bridging the gap between financial clarity and business innovation. "95% of business strategies used today are identical to the competition, and quite frankly, by virtue of that, they don't work.” — Michael Barbarita Connect with Michael Barbarita:  Website: https://www.nextstepcfo.net/ Show: Powerful Business Strategies: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/powerful-business-strategies/id1757160951 | https://www.powerfulbusinessstrategies.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbarbarita/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw Website: https://www.mfileadership.com/ The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/ X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/ Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.com Phone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel Alvarez Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.