Halfway through the year is a critical time to check in on those goals we set with so much hope in January. On this episode of No More Mondays, Angie Callen welcomes Julie Ellis—entrepreneur, leadership coach, and author of Big Gorgeous Goals—to share her philosophy on setting ambitious goals that inspire, challenge, and ultimately fulfill us.

Julie helps us understand the difference between conventional goals like SMART goals or to-do lists and what she calls 'big gorgeous goals'—those audacious, inspiring goals that push us beyond our comfort zones and invite creativity and persistence over time. They explore why so many people get stuck, how fear of failure, judgment, and even success can sabotage our progress, and the essential role of delegation, systems, and accountability partners in reaching these goals.

In this episode, we explore:
- The distinction between typical goal-setting and big gorgeous goals
- Why creating space and disconnecting from constant busyness is critical for vision
- The fears that hold us back and how to face them
- How to build systems, processes, and teams that support ambitious goals
- The importance of accountability and community in sustainable success
- Reflecting on success and fulfillment as evolving concepts
- Midyear recalibration: how to assess and adjust your goals realistically
- Practical questions to get unstuck and move forward
- The power of analog reflection in a digital age

This conversation connects with the themes of modern work, values-driven leadership, and human potential. Julie's story of building a successful business, going through a major transition, and redefining her own goals brings authenticity and hope for anyone needing a fresh perspective.

Julie Ellis is an entrepreneur, leadership coach, speaker, and author of Big Gorgeous Goals. She has built and exited a multi-million-dollar business and now dedicates her work to helping others set and achieve inspiring goals by acknowledging fears and building intentional supports.

Find Julie and her book at julieellis.ca and on LinkedIn.

Remember: Humans still matter, and your big, gorgeous goals can transform not just your work, but your life.

We're more "connected" than ever and more disconnected than ever — from each other and from ourselves. In this Midweek Momentum, Angie unpacks why real connection starts on the inside, what it actually means to show up with presence and authority, and why stillness might be the most underrated leadership skill there is.

Showing up authentically isn't just a feel-good motto; it's a strategic advantage in today's fast-paced, AI-driven world. In this episode, I sit down with Michael Fineman—a speaker, communication expert, and self-proclaimed dot connector—to explore what it really means to have presence and authority rooted in authenticity and identity.

We get beyond surface-level confidence and talk about the internal work that shapes how others experience us in meaningful ways. From navigating imposter syndrome to resisting the urge to fake connection with AI-generated content, this conversation reminds us that humans still matter in the age of technology.

In this episode, we explore:
- The difference between merely sharing information and truly connecting
- How authenticity fuels authority and confidence
- Why identity is the foundation for leadership presence
- The risks of relying on AI without deep understanding
- How imposter syndrome blocks genuine connection
- Practical ways to take off the mask and serve others
- The importance of stillness and self-reflection for steady leadership
- The concept of Authoritative Drift and how to stay aligned with your true purpose
- How servant leadership changes the game
- Creating real impact through meaningful relationships

Real leadership today means leading with your whole self, grounded in values, and connected to your inner identity. Michael's work guides us to rediscover that source of steady authority that can't be duplicated by machines or polished scripts.

Michael Fineman is a seasoned communication expert and author of books including "The Man with the Wooden Mouth" and "Connect the Dots." He helps leaders and entrepreneurs build authentic presence and communicate with genuine impact. You can learn more about his work and upcoming programs at mikef360.com.

At No More Mondays, we believe humans still matter. This episode shows why bringing your full, authentic self is the best leadership strategy there is.