Unlock the secrets of effective change management and sales strategies in our latest episode with visionary Patrick Seaton. What if understanding the human brain could be the key to closing your next deal? Patrick, with his groundbreaking work combining neuroscience with sales, answers this question and more, sharing insights from his acclaimed book, "A Crocodile Brain Can Make or Break Your Sale." His innovative approach has inspired tools like "Ask Alex," a unique AI-driven platform that transforms how sellers navigate the buyer's journey, ensuring effective and empathetic communication.

Patrick also challenges traditional change management methods, offering a fresh perspective from his second book, "The Change OS." Dive into the structured approach he champions for facilitating change, emphasizing the crucial role of preparation and workforce engagement. Hear firsthand accounts from users like Earl and Donna, who have revolutionized their communication strategies using Ask Alex. This tool stands out by not just mirroring back user input but actively engaging with the receiver's perspective, providing constructive feedback that enhances the effectiveness of messages across various contexts.

Explore the practicalities and innovations of Ask Alex, an AI agent platform now integrated with Claude and soon with GPT. Whether you're an insurance agent perfecting your pitch or an entrepreneur refining your communication skills, discover how a 10-day free trial can open new pathways to success. Moreover, we highlight the dynamic partnership between Patrick and Alex in AI development, showcasing how their collaboration has not only sparked technological advancements but has also aligned with their shared vision of teaching and problem-solving. Join us as we acknowledge the power of innovation and the impact of thoughtful collaboration on business and personal growth.

Can discipline truly transform the way we tackle procrastination? Explore this intriguing question with us as we welcome Eric Twiggs, a distinguished coach for executives and entrepreneurs, who shares his remarkable journey from military high school to successful coaching. Eric's story is a testament to the power of curiosity and time management in achieving greatness. He reveals actionable insights into cultivating discipline, highlighting the use of accountability partners and self-awareness as key strategies to overcome procrastination and align our actions with our goals.

We delve into the complex dance between fear and excitement in risk-taking. Fear isn’t just an obstacle; it’s a signpost pointing towards growth. By persistently questioning our motives, we uncover deeper motivations, turning vague ambitions into clear, actionable plans. Learn how fear and nerves can be reframed as positive indicators of significance, guiding us toward excellence. The SCARF model also comes into play, shedding light on how status, certainty, autonomy, relatedness, and fairness influence our resistance to change and tendency to procrastinate.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss empowerment through acknowledgment and open dialogue. Eric and I reflect on our personal journeys, emphasizing the crucial role of mentors like Dr. Willie Jolly, whose guidance has been pivotal. We explore how sharing fears and vulnerabilities can lead to personal growth and leadership clarity. Visual practices are underscored as powerful learning tools, enriching our discussions. As we close this engaging episode, we encourage you to embrace gratitude and continue this journey with us by exploring additional resources and subscribing for more insightful conversations.

(00:02) Exploring Leadership and Psychedelics

This chapter explores the fascinating journey of leadership and the ripple effect it can have on the world. Joining me is Laura, a leadership coach based in Alberta, Canada, who shares her path from the nonprofit sector to becoming a catalyst for leaders aiming to create positive change. We discuss the power of strong self-leadership and how it extends to influence families, organizations, and communities. As we enter the demanding fourth quarter, Laura introduces an intriguing approach to maintaining mental health and building resilience through the use of psychedelics. These substances, historically researched for their benefits, are gaining renewed interest for their potential to address PTSD, depression, and anxiety effectively. Laura explains how integrating psychedelics into leadership development can help leaders sustain their well-being and amplify their impact.

(17:35) Transformation Through Psychedelic Journey Healing

This chapter explores the transformative power of psylocybin experiences, both in group settings and through intimate one-on-one guided sessions. We examine how these journeys, enhanced by music and sensory isolation, allow individuals to access and communicate with their subconscious, leading to profound insights and healing. Psylocybin helps address both significant traumas like PTSD and more subtle life experiences that may have fostered negative mindsets. The narrative emphasizes the importance of post-experience integration, where insights gained are woven into daily life with the help of coaching. Sharing a personal breakthrough, she recounts how a journey helped me uncover and resolve a long-held issue related to my father, leading to a newfound sense of empowerment and the ability to pursue previously unseen possibilities.

(23:50) Personal Transformation and Integration With Psychedelics

This chapter explores the integration of psychedelic medicine into personal and professional development. We discuss how these experiences can be likened to peeling away layers of an onion, revealing insights and opportunities for growth. Integration is highly individualized, involving various practices like health improvements, yoga, or addressing personal relationships. Additionally, the conversation highlights the potential of psychedelics to rewire the brain, fostering creativity and breakthroughs, particularly for entrepreneurs and business leaders. We touch on the concept of using psychedelics in mastermind groups, where leaders support each other in an open, creative environment. The conversation concludes with reflections on the transformative power of these experiences in both personal and professional contexts.

(38:02) Impacts of Thoughtful Relationships

This chapter highlights the inspiring relationship between Laura and her husband, John, emphasizing his role as a supportive thought partner and active listener in both their professional and personal lives. We explore how John's ability to create clarity from chaos and challenge Laura's thinking has contributed to her success, including her achievements in dance. The conversation also touches on the relevance of authenticity, creativity, and alignment in their partnership. Additionally, Laura shares insights into her work with psychedelics, which aids others in personal and professional growth. For those interested in learning more, Laura provides resources through her website and LinkedIn. Join us as we celebrate John's impactful presence and the importance of nurturing relationships that foster growth and alignment.

What happens when you blend the precision of engineering with the fluidity of economics and leadership? This episode introduces you to Morag Barrett, who shares her extraordinary love of puzzles to the complexities of economics and organizational development. Together, we explore how networking and building genuine connections have shaped her leadership journey. Amidst the serious discussions, we share a lighthearted chat about our mutual love for coffee and tea, pondering the significance of a perfectly fitting mug. Morag’s insights remind us that leadership is a zig-zagged journey filled with varied experiences, not a straight path.

Discover the transformative power of connection in leadership. Reflecting on her early banking career, Morag realized the true challenge was in the realm of interpersonal dynamics rather than mere technical prowess. This realization spurred the creation of Sky Team, a company focused on fostering cultures of connection in workplaces often marred by stress and burnout, particularly among middle managers. We offer practical advice for middle managers to navigate their roles more effectively, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with personal values to reduce friction and enhance job satisfaction.

Explore the emotional waves that ripple through teams and how leaders can harness this energy for success. From recognizing the contagious nature of emotions to creating environments that allow genuine expression, we delve into the concept of "collective effervescence." The SPIRIT of Acknowledgement framework was used to recognize Morag's colleagues at Skye Team. We discuss the dangers of false positivity and the importance of timely recognition, touching on how practices like "ripples and joys" can reinforce connection and engagement. Join us to uncover how these insights can inspire and invigorate your leadership journey.

https://www.skyeteam.cloud/youmewe

Renowned thought leader in emotionally intelligent leadership, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller joins me for an illuminating discussion on the transformative power of empathy in leadership. From her early days as a professional French horn player to becoming an expert in empathy-driven leadership, Dr. Melissa shares her journey of overcoming personal and systemic challenges. Our conversation reveals how so-called soft skills, often undervalued, are essential for achieving tangible results in leadership and how our shared background in playing the French horn adds a personal touch to our insights.

We explore the significant role of empathy and emotional intelligence in driving business success, particularly within industries like automotive engineering and manufacturing. The distinction between managing and leading becomes clear as we discuss the importance of treating organizations as dynamic, living entities rather than static machines. By weaving empathy into leadership practices, businesses can unlock innovation and productivity, dispelling the misconception that empathy is a weakness. Supported by a 2021 Ernst Young study, we share how cognitive empathy can be a logical yet powerful tool to foster understanding and growth.

The conversation also touches on the crucial aspects of building trust and clarity in leadership roles through self-reflection, self-awareness, and self-empathy. Highlighting a success story from middle management, we explore how fostering a human-centered approach can transform team dynamics and reduce burnout. Emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding organizational culture, we caution against making premature changes when stepping into new roles. Dr. Melissa's experiences have not only shaped her career but also influenced my own path, as I delve into empathy-driven leadership in my latest book and upcoming speaking engagements.

EQviaEmpathy

What if you could transform personal adversity into a thriving leadership-focused organization? Join us as Alan Lazaros from Next Level University shares his compelling story of overcoming challenges to build a successful online business. Guided by Jim Collins' "Good to Great," Alan reveals his strategic approach to leadership development, including his innovative Flywheel concept and five-layer business model. Discover how social media engagement, valuable content creation, and targeted coaching contribute to scaling his business, while learning valuable lessons from past mistakes of overextending resources.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, how do you identify and protect your "golden glass ball," or top priority? Alan uses the metaphor of juggling to emphasize the art of balancing priorities and highlights the significance of the Directly Responsible Individual (DRI) for ensuring business efficiency. From setting meeting buffers to employing scheduling tools, Alan shares time management strategies that enhance both personal and professional life. With a nod to the importance of persistence and consistency in creative endeavors, Alan's insights on prioritizing tasks offer a roadmap for sustaining long-term engagement in a world where many initiatives fail to last.

The journey of personal development is often marked by impactful relationships, and Alan's testament to Emilia's influence is no exception. Through the SPIRIT framework, Alan recognizes her role in unveiling his blind spots and nurturing his leadership potential. Her expertise in the "inner game" has not only supported his growth but also bolstered the success of Next Level University. Alan's heartfelt acknowledgment of Emilia's support underscores the transformative power of meaningful relationships in personal and professional success, inspiring listeners to nurture their own impactful connections.

https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/

Join us on a revealing journey with Donovan Pyle, a celebrated whistleblower in the healthcare industry and the visionary CEO of Health Compass Consulting. Donovan unfolds his impactful story, starting from his experiences on the carrier side of the business, where he saw firsthand the frustrations executives and employees faced with healthcare benefits. His brave attempts to introduce innovative strategies based on successful models like Rosen Hotels met significant resistance, exposing the profound influence insurers held over brokers. This eye-opening experience led Donovan to forge his own path, establishing Health Compass Consulting to deliver unbiased advice that truly aligns with employers' interests.

We'll unpack the complexities of healthcare payment systems and discuss why the financial burden often falls on businesses rather than insurers. Donovan sheds light on the intricate web of insurer partnerships that can lead companies to overspend, all while highlighting the strategic importance of developing a solid framework before making significant changes. With insights from figures like Mark Cuban, we explore how larger companies can benefit by bringing benefits expertise in-house, maximizing returns on healthcare investments. This episode navigates the evolving brokerage landscape, emphasizing the shift to fiduciary models that prioritize advisory services and better customer service.

Beyond business, Donovan shares personal reflections on the values and mentorship that have shaped his leadership style. From the entrepreneurial spirit of his Uncle Vince to the importance of embracing transparency and integrity, Donovan's journey is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and values. This episode is a must-listen for mid-sized businesses seeking to optimize their healthcare strategies and for anyone inspired by the fusion of personal growth and professional success. Join us for a conversation steeped in gratitude, risk-taking, and the endless possibilities that arise when visionary leadership meets innovative thinking.

Donovan Pyle

Dr. Anna Kallschmidt, a trailblazer in industrial organizational psychology, sheds light on the unwritten rules of work in our latest episode. She's renowned for her pioneering research into how social class and neurodivergence impact workplace dynamics. Dr. Kallschmidt's insights reveal the often invisible barriers individuals from low-income and neurodivergent backgrounds face and how these barriers can persist despite upward mobility. Her upcoming book aims to address these critical issues, providing strategies for fostering healthy and sustainable work cultures.

We navigate the complexities of unspoken communication in the business world, particularly at the intersection of neurodivergence and class. Dr. Kallschmidt explains how literal interpretations of communication can cause misunderstandings in corporate settings. She offers valuable strategies to improve collaboration among teams, emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse communication styles. The conversation expands to cover cultural dynamics in the workplace, the impact of individual versus collective mindsets, and how a balanced perspective can prevent the pitfalls of overly competitive environments.

Mentorship takes center stage as we explore the SPIRIT framework—Specific, Personal, Impactful, Relevant, Inclusive, and Timely—as a tool for personal and professional growth. Through inspiring stories, we witness the transformative power of being seen and heard, amplified by effective mentorship. Highlighting the pivotal role of Dr. DeSantis in shaping a mentee's career, we examine how true leadership prioritizes personal development over administrative tasks. The episode wraps up with a reflection on AI's role in changing workplace dynamics, underscoring the enduring value of human connection and guidance in the evolving professional landscape.

Dr. Kallschmidt