The Dr. AZ Podcast provides insights, models, tools, strategies, and tactics to inspire, equip and empower you to succeed in what you do. Follow him also on social media by going to www.assegid.com You can also get his books, and check other programs by checking www.successpws.com
Welcome to the premiere of The Greatness Hour!
What if greatness isn't reserved for the exceptionally talented, the wealthy, the famous, or the fortunate? What if it's something every one of us was created to discover, develop, and express?
If that's true, why do so many people hesitate to even talk about greatness? Why do many struggle to believe they have greatness within them? And even when they sense they were created for something more, why do so few pursue it?
In this foundational episode, we'll challenge some of the world's biggest misconceptions about greatness, purpose, success, and significance. I'll share stories from my own journey, along with examples from history and everyday life, to explore why so many people settle for less than their potential and what it truly means to live a life of purpose, impact, and legacy.
This conversation also lays the foundation for everything we'll explore in future episodes by introducing the definition of greatness that will guide this show and the journey we'll take together.
Whether you're a professional, entrepreneur, leader, student, or someone searching for greater meaning and direction, I hope this conversation challenges your thinking, expands your perspective, and inspires you to pursue the unique contribution only you can make.
Join me for the very first episode of The Greatness Hour as we begin a journey of discovering, developing, and deploying the greatness within.
Ignite Your Purpose. Unchain Your Greatness.
Invite a friend, and let's begin this journey together.
Two books mentioned in the episode:
The Highest Level of Greatness, which shared the three common attributes of the great ones from diverse cultures and generations: https://theatozinstitute.com/the-highest-level-of-greatness
Unchain YourGreatness, which shared the common roadmap the great ones followed to unchain their highest self: https://theatozinstitute.com/unchain-your-greatness
Did you know that your audience often decides within seconds whether they'll continue listening?
Years ago, speakers had several minutes to earn attention. Today, whether you're speaking in person or online, the first 30–60 seconds can determine whether people lean in—or tune out. And no matter how good your content is, a weak ending can diminish an otherwise great presentation.
In this live session, based on my book Speaking for Impact, I'll share practical strategies to help you master the two parts of every speech that carry the greatest influence: the opening and the closing.
You'll learn:
Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, trainer, educator, sales professional, or aspiring speaker, this session will help you become a more compelling communicator and leave every audience wanting more.
This session is based on principles from my book, Speaking for Impact, where I share practical frameworks for delivering messages that inform, influence, and inspire.
To learn more about the book Speaking for Impact and check out the outline, sample chapter, a free audit, and explanation about our coaching and Workshops on presentation skills: https://theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact
Many founders hope their businesses will scale someday—but hope is not a scaling strategy.
In this live session, based on insights from my recent book, Scale to Last, we'll explore the many vehicles organizations can use to grow beyond the founder. While most entrepreneurs think of hiring more people or selling more products, there are far more strategic options available.
We'll discuss how to think intentionally about scaling and examine a range of approaches that can help your business expand its impact, capacity, and long-term value.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, founder, business owner, executive, or someone working with founders, this session will challenge you to think differently about growth and build a business designed to scale—not just survive.
Join the conversation live!
To learn more about the book and complementary audit mentioned in the video: https://theatozinstitute.com/scale-to-last
Many organizations invest significant time and resources in strategic planning, yet still struggle to execute, adapt, and sustain a competitive advantage. The problem often isn't a lack of effort—it's a few critical mistakes made long before execution begins.
In this LIVE session, I'll share three common but often overlooked strategic planning mistakes that can undermine alignment, ownership, and long-term success. Whether you're a CEO, executive, business owner, nonprofit leader, or manager, you'll walk away with practical insights to strengthen your organization's strategic thinking and execution.
If strategy is one of your competitive advantages, you won't want to miss this conversation.
Gaining strategic Edge is so important, I wrote a book Strategic Edge. Check out the book: https://theatozinstitute.com/strategic-edge
Most leadership experts agree on one foundational principle: before you can effectively lead others, you must first learn to lead yourself.
But self-leadership begins with self-awareness—understanding who you are, what makes you unique, what you stand for, and recognizing both your strengths, limitations, and your blind spots.
In this LIVE session, I'll share the practical methods I use to become more self-aware, along with three pieces of honest (and not-so-flattering) feedback I've received over the years, how I discovered them, and what I did with that feedback. Whether you're an executive, manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, I hope these lessons help you grow as a leader from the inside out.
To learn more about the assessment-based programs that we have that could increase the self-awareness of your people, check this web page: https://theatozinstitute.com/the-leadership-assessment-and-development-center
Have you ever wondered why some presentations, pitches, and conversations are instantly memorable while others are quickly forgotten?
In this LIVE session, we'll explore why stories are one of the most powerful communication tools available to leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and speakers. We'll also distinguish true stories from their close relatives—such as narration, reporting, and anecdotes—and uncover why they don't all have the same impact.
Finally, we'll dive into one specific type of story that can dramatically strengthen your presentations, writing, sales conversations, and leadership communication.
If you want your message to be remembered—not just heard—this session is for you.
Two books mentioned in this live session:
Speaking for impact. To learn more about the book and get it from Amazon: https://theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact
Scale to Last. To learn more about the book and get it from Amazon: https://theatozinstitute.com/scale-to-last
We all learn from experience. But some lessons are so expensive that it's far better to learn from someone else's mistakes.
In today's LIVE session, I'll share three true financial stories I heard from people whose decisions cost them significant money, time, and missed opportunities. While their situations were different, each one teaches a practical lesson that can help you avoid making the same mistake.
Whether you're just starting your financial journey or have been managing your finances for years, these stories may help you make wiser decisions and ask better questions before it's too late.
Join the conversation, invite a friend or family member, and share your own experiences during the LIVE.
To learn more about the financial services we offer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10HqMnVkPLbdJDTKvV8Sntp8Ejx1TEuju/view?usp=drive_link
For any questions or to take advantage of the Complimentary Financial Needs Analysis or Financial Wellness Workshop, please reach out via AssegidH@Gmail.com
Every speaker, trainer, leader, and entrepreneur who stands before an audience will eventually face an unexpected moment.
A participant may challenge you publicly. Someone may say or do something that catches you completely off guard. Or a situation may unfold that tests not only your presentation skills—but your credibility.
These moments happen. During more than 20 years of facilitating workshops and speaking engagements, I've encountered hundreds of them. The difference isn't whether they happen; it's how you respond.
In this LIVE session, I'll share three real classroom experiences that could have gone very differently. I'll explain what happened, what was going through my mind, why I chose the responses I did, and the practical lessons you can apply the next time you're under pressure.
These stories also connect to principles from my book, Speaking for Impact, where I discuss how to recover from stumbles, unexpected situations, and awkward moments without losing your audience.
Whether you're a speaker, trainer, facilitator, executive, entrepreneur, educator, or anyone who regularly leads meetings, you'll leave with practical strategies for protecting—and even strengthening—your credibility when the unexpected happens.
As mentioned in the video, to learn more about how to speak with confidence, presence, and handle some setbacks, awkward moments professionally and calmly, check out the book Speaking for Impact: https://theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact
Every organization has a culture. The question is whether it was intentionally built or accidentally formed.
In this LIVE session, I'll share three real examples of what organizations that take culture seriously actually do to nurture, protect, and strengthen it over time. We'll discuss practical lessons that leaders, entrepreneurs, HR professionals, and managers can apply regardless of the size of their organization.
Many of these insights are drawn from my book Culture That Works, where I explore remarkable organizational cultures—including stories from the U.S. Navy, The Ritz-Carlton, Ethiopian Airlines, and Haile Hotels & Resorts—and the principles behind their long-term success.
Whether you're building a startup, leading a team, or transforming an established organization, this session will give you practical ideas for creating a culture people want to be part of.
Join the conversation and share what has worked in your organization.
Here is the link to learn more about the book mentioned in the video: https://theatozinstitute.com/culture-that-works
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future trend—it's reshaping how organizations lead, make decisions, develop talent, and compete. The greatest challenge isn't learning AI tools; it's preparing leaders, teams, culture, and organizations to thrive in this new reality.
In this session, we'll explore why becoming AI-ready is now a strategic leadership priority, what organizations and their boards/shareholders should be thinking about today, and how leadership development must evolve to keep pace with rapid technological change.
Whether you lead a business, government agency, nonprofit, or team, this conversation will help you understand why AI readiness has become essential for long-term success.
To learn more about how we may help you build A-Ready leaders, teams, culture, and organization, check our AI Leadership Center: https://theatozinstitute.com/ai-leadership-center
Organizations invest millions of dollars every year in leadership assessments—but many professionals know very little about what these tools measure, when to use them, or how they support coaching and leadership development.
In this live session, I'll introduce five of the most widely used assessments in leadership and organizational development—Leadership 360 Feedback, Emotional Intelligence (EQ), MBTI, DiSC, and the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI). We'll discuss what each assessment measures, where it is most useful, and how we use them in coaching, workshops, and leadership development cohort programs to help individuals, teams, and organizations grow.
Whether you're a professional, leader, HR professional, coach, manager, or business owner, this session will help you better understand how assessment-informed development can improve leadership effectiveness and workplace performance.
Here is the web page to check out our assessment based programs: https://theatozinstitute.com/the-leadership-assessment-and-development-center
If you missed my LIVE session earlier, where I shared the three competencies I wish I had developed much earlier in my career, here's the replay.
Looking back, I realized that despite earning advanced degrees and numerous professional certifications, I had overlooked three practical competencies that made it much harder to turn knowledge into opportunities and impact.
If you're a professional, leader, entrepreneur, coach, consultant, or student, I hope this conversation helps you develop these competencies much earlier than I did.
Please share this with others, especially students and young professionals. These competencies take years to develop and master, so the earlier they begin, the greater the advantage they'll have throughout their careers.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) has become one of the most talked-about leadership and workplace skills of the past three decades since mid 90's - yet it remains widely misunderstood.
In this session, we'll briefly explore the origins and evolution of emotional intelligence, why it has become essential for professionals, leaders, and teams, and examine four common misconceptions that often prevent people from developing and applying EQ effectively.
Whether you lead others or simply want to improve your relationships and performance, this conversation will help you better understand the role emotional intelligence plays in success at work and in life.
Many people build careers, businesses, relationships, organization, and routines without ever consciously and clearly defining the values guiding their decisions and direction. Over time, this can create confusion, internal conflict, misalignment, and unnecessary compromise.
In this live session, we will explore what values are, why they matter, the benefits of living a values-driven lifestyle, the hidden costs of ignoring values, and practical ways to identify personal values, create shared values, and strengthen values alignment within teams and organizations.
Many professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs spend years building careers, businesses, and income - yet overlook financial concepts that can have a significant long-term impact. In this session, I share four practical lessons I learned later than I wish I had, along with insights that could help you make more informed decisions, avoid common mistakes, and create a stronger financial future.
How understanding communication styles can help you build trust, reduce misunderstandings, and connect more effectively.
Why do some conversations flow effortlessly while others feel frustrating or unproductive? One reason is that people communicate differently. In this short session, we'll explore how communication preferences influence the way people listen, process information, make decisions, and build relationships. We'll also discuss how tools like DiSC can help increase self-awareness and provide practical examples of adapting your communication style to better connect with others in both professional and personal settings.
As a Business Broker in South Florida, I've seen many well-intentioned business buyers and sellers enter the transaction process with assumptions that can lead to confusion, delays, missed opportunities, or unrealistic expectations.
In this live session, I'll share three common misunderstandings I've observed and discuss why having the right perspective can help buyers and sellers navigate the process more effectively and make better-informed decisions.
Many professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders understand the importance of feedback, yet struggle to deliver it in a way that truly drives change and growth. This session explores three types of feedback, real-life stories, and simple, practical steps you can use to provide feedback that is clear, constructive, and impactful—helping individuals and teams improve performance, strengthen relationships, and achieve meaningful results.
Many professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders communicate with good intentions, yet often overlook how differences in communication styles can affect understanding, trust, and collaboration. This session explores the importance of adapting your communication approach, introduces the DiSC framework for understanding communication preferences, and shares practical examples that can help you connect more effectively with others, reduce misunderstandings, strengthen relationships, and improve personal and professional interactions.
Many professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders work hard to build careers, businesses, relationships, and success - but what happens when life disrupts what they have built? In this session, through two real-life stories and practical reflection, we explore the power of purpose as a stabilizing force that helps people navigate setbacks, maintain resilience, and move forward with meaning, clarity, and hope.
What separates people who drift through life from those who build intentionally toward a meaningful future? In this session, through personal insight, practical reflection, and actionable guidance, we explore the power of vision as a force that creates clarity, sharpens decision-making, strengthens resilience through uncertainty, and helps individuals pursue a life aligned with purpose, direction, and long-term impact.
Many startups attempt to scale without having executive-level thinking embedded in their core team. This session explains the three leadership stages—emerging, middle, and senior—and the mindset, focus, and capabilities required to move from execution to direction, enabling sustainable growth and strategic impact.
Many leaders and organizations recognize the value of high performers, yet often misunderstand what truly drives them, what helps them excel, and why some eventually disengage or leave. This session explores the traits, expectations, and motivations that often distinguish top contributors, along with practical leadership insights to help you attract, engage, and retain exceptional talent while building stronger, higher-performing teams.
Many middle leaders struggle to lead effectively because they continue managing as individual contributors or team supervisors. This session explains the three core competencies—portfolio management, performance leadership, and upward influence—and the mindset, focus, and capabilities required to lead across teams, align with executives, enabling coordinated execution and organizational impact.
Many people believe their circumstances, background, setbacks, or disadvantages have permanently defined their future. This session challenges that belief through powerful stories, practical insights, and actionable strategies to help you reframe your mindset, rewrite limiting patterns, and take intentional steps toward a more empowered and purpose-driven future.
In my book, The Highest Level of Greatness, I shared three common traits of the great ones from diverse cultures and generations.
I picked one of the traits, knowing who they were and pursuing their purpose, and created this clip to share two real stories and how the two main characters responded to loss, and the lessons we should learn to lead a purposeful lifestyle.
Check it out and let me know your thoughts.
Visit this page: https://theatozinstitute.com/the-highest-level-of-greatness to read a sample chapter and even order the book from Amazon.
You can also download a free Starter kit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VOvoORNgRmAI2gLxSeLk9UJz0vya_oqr/view
Feedback is not rare. However, those feedback that are given fail because they are given in a way that doesn't lead to improvement, clarity, and action.
In this live session, I’ll break down a practical approach to feedback that goes beyond theory and focuses on real-world impact.
We’ll cover:
Three types of feedback every leader, entrepreneur, and professional must understand
Two real stories of feedback I received — what worked, what didn’t, and what I did with it
Simple, actionable steps you can use immediately to deliver feedback that is clear, constructive, and effective
Whether you lead a team, manage clients, run a business, or collaborate with peers, this session will help you turn feedback into a tool for performance and growth — not tension.
Listen and reflect on your approach, and start giving feedback that actually delivers.
If you would like to explore other similar short video sessions on communication, strategy, scaling, culture, and leadership check this website: https://theatozinstitute.com/free-educational-clips-for-leaders-founders-and-professionals
Stepping into a middle leadership role changes everything. You’re no longer managing one team or project—you’re leading a portfolio, aligning multiple leaders, and navigating expectations from both sides (upper management, and supervisors reporting to you).
In this short session, I break down three essential competencies middle leaders must master to succeed leading from the middle:
Portfolio Management – How to lead multiple teams and projects through a unified roadmap instead of managing them one by one
Performance Leadership – How to set clear goals, track meaningful metrics, and coach leaders to deliver results
Influencing Upward – How to align with executives, build trust, and secure the support your portfolio teams and projects need to win
If you're leading from the middle—or preparing to step into that role—this session will give you practical perspective you can apply immediately.
If you would like to explore other similar short video sessions on communication, strategy, scaling, culture, and leadership check this website: https://theatozinstitute.com/free-educational-clips-for-leaders-founders-and-professionals
Most startups don’t fail because of a lack of ideas, funding, or effort—they fail because they lack executive mentality and capabilities within their core team.
In this live session, I break down the three stages of leadership development—Emerging, Middle, and Senior (Executive)—and the psychology, focus, and competencies required at each level.
You’ll learn how to:
Identify where you and your team currently operate
Understand the mindset and responsibilities required to scale
Attract and position the right leadership talent at the right level
Bridge the gap if executive capability is missing
If you’re a founder, leader, or building a team to scale, this session will help you think—and lead—at a higher level.
If you would like to explore other similar short video sessions on communication, strategy, scaling, culture, and leadership check this website: https://theatozinstitute.com/free-educational-clips-for-leaders-founders-and-professionals
In many organizations, first-time supervisors, team leaders, and project managers are promoted for their performance—but rarely prepared for leadership. They’re expected to figure it out on their own, often learning through costly mistakes.
In this short live session, shared three essential shifts that aspiring and newly promoted supervisors, team leaders, and project managers must make to succeed from the start.
These insights are drawn from years of training professionals across the country and are based on my book Overcoming 1st Timer Syndrome.
Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or preparing for one, this session will help you transition with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
As promised in the video, here is a link to read a sample chapter from the book, order the book from Amazon, sign Up for the Masterclass, enroll for the Online Course, request Coaching and Consulting: https://theatozinstitute.com/overcoming-1st-timer-syndrome
If you would like to explore other similar short video sessions on communication, strategy, scaling, culture, and leadership check this website: https://theatozinstitute.com/free-educational-clips-for-leaders-founders-and-professionals
In this short educational session, I broke down three common misunderstandings that prevent teams and organizations from fully leveraging their corporate culture.
Many leaders talk about culture—but few truly understand how it works, how it shapes behavior, and how it can be intentionally designed to drive performance.
In this session, you’ll recognize the three common myths:
Whether you lead a team, run an organization, or aspire to build something meaningful, this session will challenge how you think about culture—and help you use it more strategically.
As promised in the video, I am sharing some resources. My recent book entitled “Culture That Works” covered these three and many other insights, strategies, approaches, and methods. Below are resources based on the book:
Sample Chapter of my book Culture That Works: https://theatozinstitute.com/Culture-That-Works-sample
Apply for a FREE audit: https://theatozinstitute.com/request-a-complimentary-audit
Order the book from Amazon: https://a.co/d/07Sn0KAP
Request Coaching or consulting for your team or organization: https://theatozinstitute.com/designing-a-high-performance-culture
Many strategic plans end up collecting dust on a shelf. And even the few that make it into action often fail to give teams and organizations a true strategic edge.
In this short live session, I broke down three of the most common challenges that prevent strategy from translating into real results—and share practical insights on how to overcome them.
Whether you are a leader, a manager, a business owner, or a professional involved in planning and execution, this session will help you think more clearly about how to move from intention to impact.
No theory. No fluff. Just practical perspective you can apply immediately.
As promised in the video:
I broke down three of the most common reasons small business founders struggle to scale - and share a practical perspective on how to think about them differently.
Scaling is not just about growth. It’s about structure, clarity, and disciplined execution.
Whether you are:
This session will give you insights you can apply immediately.
No theory. No fluff. Just practical thinking you can use to move forward.
As promised in the clip, here are some resources:
1. A sample chapter from the book "Scale to Last": https://theatozinstitute.com/scale-to-last-sample
2. FREE Starter Kit: https://funnels.theatozinstitute.com/scale-to-last-starter-kit
3. Request a FREE Audit: https://theatozinstitute.com/request-a-complimentary-audit
4. Request Coaching and Consulting: https://theatozinstitute.com/form-launch-and-scale-your-company
#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Scaling #Leadership #BusinessGrowth
This is a live session on 3 simple moves you can take to improve your presentation skills fast.
As promised in the clip, I am sharing some resources. My recent book entitled “Speaking for Impact” covered these three and many other insights, strategies, approaches, and methods. Below are resources based on the book:
Sample Chapter of my book Speaking for Impact: https://theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact-sample
FREE Starter kit to download: https://funnels.theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact-starter-kit
Apply for a FREE audit: https://theatozinstitute.com/request-a-complimentary-audit
Order the book from Amazon: https://a.co/d/0315mAC8
Request Coaching for you or a Webinar/workshop for your team: https://theatozinstitute.com/speaking-for-impact-program
Moves To Take Your Presentation Skills to The Next Level
The Hidden Risk of Staying Small in Today’s Economy
At the Leadership Summit on February 20, 2026, Dr. AZ Habtewold delivered a powerful message drawn from his book Scale to Last.
Many professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs misunderstand scaling. It is not about going big. It is about building structural capacity for sustainable impact, resilience, and long-term value.
In this short but practical session, Dr. AZ addresses:
What scaling really means
Why scaling matters even if you do not want to grow big
The hidden risks of founder dependency
How lack of scalability destroys valuation
Three practical vehicles to begin scaling immediately
If you are serious about building something that lasts, this message is for you.
👉 Key takeaway: Even if you are not ready to scale today, you must prepare your foundation now.
📚 Learn More
Book: Scale to Last: https://theatozinstitute.com/scale-to...
Scale to Last Venture Lab: https://theatozinstitute.com/scale-to...
Please visit our website to get more information: https://theatozinstitute.com/
In today’s hyper-competitive job market, technical skills may get your resume noticed—but soft skills determine who gets hired, promoted, and trusted with leadership.
Multiple studies consistently show that up to 85 percent of long-term career success is driven by soft skills, while only 15 percent comes from technical or hard skills. In fact, research also reveals a sobering reality: 46 percent of first hires are terminated within their first 18 months, and 89 percent of those terminations are due to poor attitude, communication, and interpersonal skills, not technical incompetence.
In an era where automation, AI, and rapid change are redefining roles, the ability to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, manage emotions, and influence others has become a non-negotiable advantage—especially for tech professionals who want to stand out, move into leadership, and sustain long-term impact.
In this conversation, I engaged with Yadi, an organizational psychology practitioner and the host of The Hardcore Soft Skills Podcast, to unpack why soft skills are no longer “nice to have,” but mission-critical for anyone building a serious career in tech and beyond.
About the Guest
Yadi is an organizational psychology practitioner, workplace strategist, and the host of The Hardcore Soft Skills Podcast, where she challenges the myth that soft skills are secondary or optional. She is also the author of Hardcore Soft Skills: A Guide to Work with Humans.
Through research-driven insights and real-world conversations, she helps professionals—especially in technical fields—understand how human behavior, mindset, and communication shape performance, leadership, and career longevity.
Her work bridges psychology and practice, translating complex human dynamics into actionable strategies for individuals and organizations seeking sustainable success.
With special guest: Clare Overmann | CEO, AIEA | Former Senior Director, IIE | Global Education Leader
Clare Overmann has spent her career building bridges across borders—turning higher education into a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth.
From her early days in the private sector in The Netherlands to leading global partnerships at the Institute of International Education, Clare’s journey has been one of purpose and global impact. Today, as CEO of AIEA, she leads a global network of higher education leaders shaping the future of international learning, policy, and partnerships.
Behind the leadership title lies a powerful personal story—what inspired her to dedicate her life to education, how she navigated complex international partnerships, and why she believes universities are key to building more equitable, innovative, and prosperous societies.
This conversation isn’t just about academia—it’s about how education drives economies, transforms communities, and connects the world.
Discussion Highlights
How Clare transitioned from the petrochemical sector in The Netherlands to global education—and the moments that shaped her purpose.
What it takes to build sustainable, mutually beneficial academic collaborations that fuel innovation and opportunity.
How universities contribute to workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and international development.
How higher education cultivates ethical leaders who think beyond borders and act with integrity, empathy, and responsibility.
Her perspective on the future of international higher ed leadership—and the mindsets required to thrive in an uncertain world.
About the Guest
Clare Overmann is CEO of AIEA, the leading association for senior international officers and global education leaders. She previously served as Senior Director at the Institute of International Education (IIE), where she led the Center for International Partnerships, managing collaborations across 15+ countries.
With a B.A. from Georgetown University and an M.A. from NYU Steinhardt, Clare brings deep understanding of policy, partnership, and people to advance higher education as a force for global good. Her work bridges academia, diplomacy, and leadership—empowering universities to shape a more connected and equitable world.
#TheAtoZPodcast #ClareOvermann #AIEA #GlobalEducation #HigherEducation #BeyondBorders #EconomicDevelopment #SocialImpact #EducationForChange #InnovationThroughEducation
I recently joined Your Ethiopian Professionals Network (YEP) for a dynamic conversation on From Diaspora Dreams to U.S. Business Ownership.
Together, we explored topics that matter deeply for aspiring and existing Ethiopian entrepreneurs in the U.S., including:
💡 Why buying a business can sometimes be a smarter move than starting from scratch
💡 Diverse sources of financing to help scale your company
💡 Investor visa options for those looking to invest in the U.S.
💡 The most important leadership competency every entrepreneur needs to succeed
And — we uncovered one of the most neglected but extraordinary financing options that too many overlook.
🔥 It was a dynamic, eye-opening discussion, and I’d love to hear your takeaways.
👉 Check out the clip and share what stood out most to you.
We covered a wide range of powerful themes, from aviation and leadership to legacy, purpose, and impact.
Captain Abiy shared how growing up in a family of pilots — with his father among the pioneers of Ethiopian Airlines — inspired him and his brother to follow the same flight path.
He opened up about his decision to become a John C. Maxwell certified leadership coach, and drew fascinating parallels between a pilot in the cockpit and a leader in the workplace — both responsible for lives, safety, and direction.
We also explored how AvDyne AeroServices is serving major airlines like American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, while hiring and empowering Ethiopian aviation engineers across the U.S.
And beyond aviation, he revealed what fuels his passion for investing in fintech, building people, and raising the next generation of emerging leaders.
#TheAtoZPodcast #CaptainAbiyMakonnen #AvDyneAeroServices #AviationLeadership #JohnCMaxwellLeadership #AfricanExcellence #DiasporaInnovation #PurposeDrivenLeadership #FromCockpitToCSuite #LeadershipLegacy
With special guest: Dr. Girma Ababi | Founder & CEO of Liyana Healthcare plc, Liyana Digital Healthcare Solutions plc, and Liyana-Oxy Medical Gas Manufacturing | Healthcare Investor | Industry Pioneer
He didn’t just practice medicine – he built an ecosystem. Dr. Girma Ababi has been at the forefront of Ethiopia’s healthcare transformation, pioneering the country’s health insurance industry and expanding its health infrastructure. Through hospitals, digital healthcare, and medical gas manufacturing, he’s redefining access, equity, and quality in one of Africa’s fastest-growing markets.
This episode isn’t just about medicine. It’s about visionary leadership, coalition building, and scaling systems that change lives and entire nations.
Discussion Points
1. From Physician to System Builder
How Dr. Ababi’s transition from practicing medicine to building enterprises reveals the mindset leaders need to scale beyond themselves.
Insurance & Financing Models for Growth
The pioneering role of health insurance in Ethiopia – and what it takes to design systems that stabilize organizations while expanding access.
Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Why tele-health and digital platforms are more than technology upgrades – they’re strategic levers for scaling services and creating sustainable impact.
Coalition Building & Influence
How Dr. Ababi leverages associations, partnerships, and policy networks to amplify his impact – and what leaders everywhere can learn about borrowing influence, building alliances, and expanding their reach beyond their own resources.
Legacy, Sustainability & Exit Strategies
What leaders in healthcare – and beyond – can learn about building organizations that endure, attract investment, and leave lasting legacies for future generations.
About the Guest
Dr. Girma Ababi is the Founder & CEO of Liyana Healthcare plc, Liyana Digital Healthcare Solutions plc, and Liyana-Oxy Medical Gas Manufacturing. A physician, healthcare investor, and industry pioneer, he has been instrumental in expanding Ethiopia’s healthcare infrastructure and shaping the country’s health insurance industry.
With over two decades of experience, Dr. Ababi has built hospitals, launched tele-health solutions, and led groundbreaking initiatives in medical gas manufacturing to support clinical operations nationwide. He has also served as Vice President of the National Private Health Facilities Association, led regional healthcare associations, and continues to play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare policy, access, and investment across Africa.
Watch it. Share it with your colleagues. This is a masterclass in healthcare leadership, innovation, and impact you don’t want to miss.
With special guest Nick Friedman | Co-Founder & President of College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving | Bestselling Author | Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur
He didn’t just start a company – he started a movement. Nick Friedman co-founded College H.U.N.K.S. with a beat-up cargo van and a bold idea. Today, it’s a $300 million franchise empire with 250+ locations nationwide – built on culture, purpose, and service.
This episode isn’t just about scaling a business. It’s about leading with values, building people-first organizations, and proving that hustle and heart can change industries – and communities.
Discussion Points
1. From Side Hustle to National Brand
How Nick and his best friend turned a college gig into one of America’s fastest-growing franchise systems.
2. Culture as Currency
Why “Honest, Uniformed, Nice, Knowledgeable Service” became more than a tagline – it’s the DNA of a purpose-driven company.
3. Media Spotlight
Lessons from the spotlight of Shark Tank, Oprah, and Undercover Boss – and how to stay authentic while scaling.
4. Leadership Without Limits
How purpose, joy, and resilience fuel entrepreneurial success that lasts.
About the Guest
Nick Friedman is co-founder and president of College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving, one of the most recognized and awarded franchise brands in America. He’s a bestselling author of Effortless Entrepreneur, Inc. Top 30 Under 30 honoree, Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year winner, and frequent media guest featured on Shark Tank, Oprah, CNN, and Undercover Boss.
With a mission “To Move the World,” Nick leads with culture, purpose, and impact – showing leaders and entrepreneurs everywhere what it takes to scale with heart.
#TheAtoZPodcast #NickFriedman #CollegeHunks #EffortlessEntrepreneur #LeadershipCulture #FranchiseSuccess #PurposeDrivenBusiness #ScalingWithHeart #EntrepreneurshipJourney
Jake Thompson once described himself as a passenger in his own life, overweight, drinking daily, and drifting without purpose. Everything changed the day he picked up a single book that forced him to confront his truth: “My story sucked, and it was up to me to write a better one.”
That wake-up call sparked a transformation that turned into a movement, Compete Every Day, now inspiring leaders and teams across the country.
Beyond the origin story: Jake took the lessons that rebuilt his life and turned them into simple, actionable frameworks that anyone can use. He teaches people how to define personal standards, stack small wins, and keep promises to themselves when motivation fades. He has worked with companies, coaches, and everyday professionals to build habits that reduce excuses, increase accountability, and make progress feel repeatable. This interview focuses on practical steps you can apply right away, whether you lead a team, run a business, or are rebuilding after a setback.
Discussion Points
1. The Wake-Up Call: How one book jolted Jake out of autopilot and set him on a path of daily, intentional change.
Small Bets, Big Shifts: Why committing to 1% improvements every day matters more than grand gestures.
Compete With Yourself, Not the World: The mindset shift that makes growth accessible for everyone, not just athletes and high performers.
From T-Shirts to Global Impact: How Jake built Compete Every Day from selling shirts out of his car into a brand with a life-changing message.
Whether you are chasing new goals, rebuilding from setbacks, or tired of going through the motions, Jake’s story proves that transformation starts the moment you decide to take the wheel.
About the guest
Jake Thompson is the Founder of Compete Every Day, a keynote speaker, and performance coach dedicated to helping leaders and organizations create winning cultures. Drawing from his own transformation and more than a decade of work with professionals, coaches, and companies, Jake delivers practical frameworks on accountability, resilience, and personal leadership that drive measurable results.
With special guest: Thomas Scott | Founder & CEO of Stellar AI Solutions | AI Innovator | Business Systems Builder
He didn’t just predict the future of AI, he built it. When Thomas Scott launched Stellar AI Solutions, he tested AI agents inside his own business, and within days, they landed their first client. That moment confirmed what he already believed: AI agents aren’t just coming, they’re here to transform how companies operate today.
This episode isn’t just about how to use AI Agents in real estate alone. It’s about how AI agents can free time, cut costs, and open doors for growth in any industry.
Discussion Points
1. AI Agents as Business Partners
What they are, how they differ from traditional automation, and why leaders should treat them like team members, not tools.
The First-Client Story
How Stellar AI Solutions secured a client within days using AI agents – and what that means for entrepreneurs everywhere.
Scaling Smarter, Not Larger
Why AI agents allow businesses to grow lean, save money, and multiply output without adding more staff.
The Agentic Future
Emerging trends in AI agents and what’s next for businesses that embrace them now.
Why This Matters to You
• Inspiration for Any Industry: Whether you're in marketing, operations, consulting, healthcare, or education – AI agents can reimagine how you work.
• Proof, not Theory: Thomas’s first-client win isn’t hypothetical – it happened fast and reliably.
• Transformation, Not Replacement: This isn’t about job cuts – it's about amplifying your team’s capacity and creativity with intelligent partners.
• A Look Ahead: Be at the forefront of agentic AI’s adoption – not years behind it.
About the Guest
Thomas Scott is the Founder & CEO of Stellar AI Solutions, a company helping real estate businesses – and beyond – leverage AI agents to run leaner, smarter, and more profitably. His work shows that AI isn’t a distant promise; it’s a present-day advantage.
By building intelligent systems that automate tasks, optimize funnels, and amplify results, Thomas is proving that AI agents are the new competitive edge for entrepreneurs, executives, and organizations across industries.
Invite a friend. Don’t miss this one.
With special guest: Jeremy Beland | Off-Market Real Estate Expert | 450+ Deals Closed | REI Freedom Coach
He didn’t just flip properties – he flipped his life. Jeremy Beland traded his comfort zone for a coaching program, downsized his living space, and bet it all on himself. Fast forward, he’s not just closed 450+ off-market deals and generated $10 million in gross profits – he’s become the voice inspiring others to redefine their own pathways to freedom.
This episode is not just about real estate deals. It’s about the deals we make with ourselves to chase freedom, build resilience, and create a life that pays dividends far beyond money.
Discussion Points
How military values like discipline, adaptability, and persistence shaped Jeremy’s path from service to entrepreneurship.
Bringing energy, authenticity, and actionable insights to audiences nationwide.
Lessons from scaling NH Home Buyers, Coastal Florida Home Buyers, and REI Freedom into seven-figure ventures.
Why leading with empathy and human connection creates lasting success.
About the Guest
Jeremy Beland is a real estate investor, coach, speaker, husband, and devoted father of five. After serving in the Air Force, he entered the real estate world at 40 – selling his home, moving into a modest apartment, and investing in a coaching program to start his wholesaling journey. Since then, he’s completed more than 450 off-market acquisitions across wholesaling, flipping, and rentals – generating over $10 million in gross profits.
Today, Jeremy leads multiple seven-figure ventures – NH Home Buyers, Coastal Florida Home Buyers, and REI Freedom Coaching – and travels the country inspiring others with his no-nonsense blend of strategic insight and emotional authenticity. His mission is simple: help people rewrite their stories with discipline, purpose, and freedom at the core.
The Power of the Shark Mindset with Hall of Fame Speaker & Former NBA Athlete, Walter Bond
From NBA locker rooms to the global stage, Walter Bond shares the raw truth about peak performance, personal greatness, and what it takes to win in life and leadership.
What separates high achievers from everyone else?It’s not talent. It’s not luck.
It’s mindset, preparation, and belief.
In this empowering conversation, I sit down with Walter Bond, former NBA player turned Hall of Fame speaker and Next Level Coach, who has impacted millions through his electrifying keynotes and performance frameworks. We dive deep into his journey, his turning points, and the “Shark Mindset” that transforms ordinary people into extraordinary performers.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
If you prefer to watch the full interview: https://youtube.com/live/ek6jJXiT-rw
About Walter Bond:
Walter Bond is a globally recognized performance coach and motivational speaker inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame. As a former NBA athlete, Walter took the same discipline and resilience he used on the court to ignite audiences in the boardroom. Today, he helps teams and leaders unlock their "next level" through his keynotes, books, and signature Shark Mindset philosophy.
🎥 Watch his sizzle reel
📂 Explore his marketing kit
#NoOneCanStopYouButYou #MindsetOverEverything #PeakPerformance #SharkMindset #LeadershipGrowth #HighPerformanceHabits #NextLevelLeadership #MotivationToAction #MindsetMatters #WinningMindset
In a world full of noise and uncertainty, self-confidence isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a necessity.
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Jeff Shimer, Vice President at Dale Carnegie Tampa, a leading authority in leadership and communication training. With decades of experience helping professionals unlock their potential, Jeff brings a wealth of insight on what it really takes to build lasting confidence from the inside out.
For me, this episode is personal. I still remember reading How to Win Friends and Influence People as a timid young man in Ethiopia, before ever stepping foot in the U.S. in 2005. That book changed my life. It gave me the courage to speak, lead, and eventually build the confidence to serve others through leadership and communication.
Even Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, one of the most successful investors of all time, once lacked self-confidence. He credits his Dale Carnegie public speaking training as the greatest investment he ever made, calling communication skills a 50- to 60-year return that can either limit or elevate your career.
Whether you're an emerging leader, a seasoned executive, or someone who wants to show up with conviction and courage, this episode will leave you with strategies you can apply immediately.
Key Discussion Topics:
What self-confidence really means, and how to build it daily through mindset, behavior, and reflection.
Why confidence must evolve with every level-up in your leadership and life, and how to keep your self-belief ahead of your success.
How to stay composed and courageous when facing tough conversations, high-stakes negotiations, or interpersonal tension.
Practical tips from Dale Carnegie’s legendary method to help you show up powerfully in presentations, meetings, and on the stage.
If you prefer to watch the interview: https://youtube.com/live/7ChE09eYlTA
About the Guest
Jeff Shimer is Vice President at Dale Carnegie Tampa, a globally renowned training company that has empowered millions of professionals in over 90 countries. Jeff is a master facilitator, leadership coach, and communication expert who has helped countless individuals transform how they lead, speak, and connect – with themselves and others.
With a background in business development and a passion for personal growth, Jeff combines classic Dale Carnegie principles with modern-day application. He helps professionals boost their confidence, communicate with clarity, and lead with impact.
Why influencing others isn’t a "sales tactic"—it’s the core skill for fulfilling your mission, hitting targets, and leading change.
We unpack how to wield influence with integrity, including:
Why Listen?
If you’re an entrepreneur pitching investors, a leader rallying your team, or an expert advising clients—this episode rewires how you approach influence. You’ll gain actionable tools to:
She didn’t just climb the ladder — she built it.
In this powerful episode of The A to Z Podcast, I sit down with Britney Mroczkowski, CCIM — a trailblazer in commercial real estate who turned grit into growth, and blueprints into bold leadership.
From closing $350M+ in deals to launching her own construction firm, Britney shares how she’s built a career, a company, and a movement — one bold decision at a time.
We unpack:
Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, leader, or someone ready to rise, this episode will inspire you to build boldly in your own life.
🎧 Tune in now and take the next step toward your own blueprint for greatness.
#TheAtoZPodcast #HardHatsAndHighStakes #BuildItBrit #BrokerToBuilder #WomenInCRE #BoldLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #LegacyLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #HighPerformers #eXpCommercial #RealEstateLeadership #BusinessBuilders
In this powerful episode of The A to Z Podcast, Dr. AZ Habtewold sits down with global executive coach and keynote speaker Eddie Turner to answer a pressing question of our time: Can leadership remain relevant in the age of AI?
From the rise of digital influencers to the threat of AI replacing coaches, consultants, and even speakers. This conversation explores how to lead with clarity, courage, and humanity in an era of rapid disruption.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Whether you're a coach, executive, or aspiring leader, this is your blueprint to stay relevant, impactful, and human in a world run by algorithms.
🧠 Don’t just watch—apply.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the conversation on the future of leadership.
What Makes Great Teams Thrive — Even in the Age of AI
Why do some teams thrive under pressure while others collapse- even with the best talent?
In this must-watch episode, Dr. David Burkus breaks down the real science behind building high-performing teams in today’s rapidly evolving workplace.
What separates high-performing teams from those that just get by?
In this powerful interview, I sit down with Dr. David Burkus, bestselling author, world-renowned leadership expert, and one of the top business thinkers of our time, to explore the evidence-based strategies that drive truly exceptional teams.
Together, we dive into:
✅ The key behaviors that set great teams apart
✅ How to build a feedback culture that inspires growth
✅ How to resolve conflict without breaking relationships
✅ Whether AI is replacing or reshaping teamwork
✅ Real-world lessons from organizations like NASA, Adobe, and PepsiCo
This is a conversation every leader, manager, entrepreneur, and high performer needs to hear.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more leadership insights from The A to Z Podcast.
In this very short highlight from our full one-hour conversation, Sylvia and I explored the fine line between emotional discipline and emotional suppression.
🧠 What does real emotional intelligence look like in practice?
💥 Can expressing emotion actually build trust and influence?
Listen this ~4 min clip here 🎥
📺 And catch the full conversation here: https://youtube.com/live/a2RUwoRp88Q
💡 If you lead people, coach others, or care about growing your impact — this clip is for you.
#EmotionalFitness #EmotionalIntelligence #EQ #ExpressEmotions #NoMuteEmotions #SylviaBaffour #DrAZHabtewold #SoftSkillsMatter #TheAtoZPodcast
🌟 What’s the #1 factor that separates high-performing teams from the rest?
It’s not talent, strategy, or resources — it’s Psychological Safety.
🔍 Research shows teams with high psychological safety:
✅ Perform 27% better
✅ Engage 76% more
Yet many leaders think their environment is safe — without realizing their people don’t feel safe enough to speak up, innovate, or stay.
In my latest episode of Walk and Talk with Dr. AZ, I share:
1️⃣ What psychological safety really means
2️⃣ The hidden costs of ignoring it (like losing top talent)
3️⃣ 2 real world stories
4️⃣ 3 practical steps to build a culture where people thrive
🎥 Ready to lead a team that’s engaged, innovative, and loyal? Listen the full clip below👇
Your turn:
Have you ever worked on a team where you didn’t feel safe speaking up? Or a team where psychological safety helped you thrive?
Share your story or thoughts below — I’d love to hear how psychological safety (or lack of it) has impacted your work experience!
👇 Drop a comment and let’s start the conversation.
#Leadership #TeamPerformance #PsychologicalSafety #WorkCulture #WalkAndTalkWithDrAZ
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Sylvia Baffour—renowned Executive Coach, globally recognized speaker, and creator of the Dare to Care™ framework. Sylvia doesn’t just teach emotional intelligence—she lives it, having helped leaders from the World Bank to Lockheed Martin build clarity, empathy, and influence into everything they do.
Together, we explore how emotional intelligence isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a daily discipline that can transform your leadership, relationships, and results. From shaping culture to managing resistance, Sylvia shares actionable strategies that will help you lead with greater intention and leave a lasting emotional legacy.
In commercial real estate and business brokerage, it’s easy to think numbers are everything… But in my experience, the most successful professionals are those who master the human side of the business.
Here are the 3 game-changing soft skills you need to succeed:
1️⃣ Emotional Fitness – Stay composed, connect deeply, and build trust
2️⃣ Turning Conflicts into Opportunities – Navigate disagreements without damaging relationships
3️⃣ 360° Communication – From cold calls to boardrooms, you must present with clarity and impact
📽️ I break these down with real stories and lessons in my latest clip. Listen to it and let me know your thoughts.
Want help developing these skills? Our coaching, workshops, and trainings are designed to elevate your influence and success.
AI is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. In this episode, Dr. AZ shares a practical and inspiring guide to integrating with AI in three vital dimensions:
🎯 Whether you’re a professional, manager, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you reflect on your AI readiness and equip you to build a human-centric future.
📩 Share your thoughts: Which part are you mastering—input, output, or culture?
#AI #Leadership #Communication #Culture #Soft Skills #Business Innovation #Emotional Intelligence #Future of Work #Integration
🎯 Stop Talking. Start Listening: The Skill Every Leader Needs 👂💡
🛑 Communication isn’t just about talking—it’s a two-way street. But how often do we actually slow down and listen?
💼 As leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers, we’re trained to speak: to pitch, persuade, and lead.
But the real power? It’s in the listening. 👂❤️
✨ In this clip, I break down: 1️⃣ Why intentional listening can be a game-changer
2️⃣ The 3️⃣ levels of listening—and how to know which one to use
3️⃣ Real stories, including the wake-up moment I realized I wasn’t the great listener I thought I was 😬
🚨 Have you ever been told, “You’re not really listening”?
🤔 Not sure how to fully tune in during high-stakes conversations?
👉 Hit play to uncover the simple shifts that will transform how you connect, lead, and communicate.
🎥 Let's upgrade from just hearing… to truly listening.
Tired of filler words? Ever catch yourself saying uhhh mid-sentence and think, “Why do I do that?” You’re not alone. Filler words like um, uh, and like can weaken your message and reduce your impact. In this short video, learn why we use them, the downsides they bring, and actionable tips to reduce or eliminate them for more polished, powerful communication.
🚀 Unlock Your Potential in Commercial Real Estate & Business Investments! 🚀
Are you looking to buy, sell, or invest in commercial properties or businesses—now or in the future? Let us help you achieve your goals faster while saving you tons of time, energy, and resources.
📽️ Listen this clip to discover:
✅ How we provide all inclusive (A to Z services), and what sets us apart from other brokers.
✅ A unique opportunity and competitive advantage available only to U.S. residents, which you can leverage to become the next investor.
✅ The story of someone who missed out on the above opportunity, costing him and the people who gave him hundreds of thousands of dollars to invest and produce high return for their money.
💡 Why listen?
Learn how we can be your ally to meet your CRE and Business Brokerage goals with minimal vessel and without wasting your scarce time, energy, and resources. Plus, learn how our expert team and vetted strategic partners (CPAs, attorneys, loan brokers, and more) create seamless wins for our clients.
🔗 Ready to take action?
👉 Listen the short clip now.
👉 Comment “INTERESTED” below, or DM me to start a conversation.
Let’s turn your goals into reality—together.
🚨 Attention Business Owners: The Exit Strategies You Can’t Afford to Ignore
Did you know 41% of U.S. small businesses are owned by baby boomers—and many are unprepared for what comes next? Whether you’re part of the 13.6 million boomer-owned companies or not, exit planning is non-negotiable. Life’s curveballs—health crises, partnerships gone sour, or unforeseen events—don’t wait for your timeline.
🔥 3 Pillars of a Smart Exit Strategy:
1️⃣ Succession Planning | Avoid instability with a clear roadmap for leadership.
2️⃣ Financial Prep & Valuation | Don’t guess your business’s worth—know it (and maximize it!).
3️⃣ Tax & Legal Strategy | Protect your profits with expert guidance.
⏳ The Harsh Truth: Waiting until the last minute could mean selling for pennies on the dollar. The best time to plan your exit? Yesterday. The next best? NOW.
💡 Even if you’re not exiting soon, preparation = power. Build value, reduce risk, and sleep soundly knowing you’re ready for whatever comes next.
📖 Don’t gamble with your legacy. Tap the link below to learn how to secure your business’s future—before life decides for you. 👇
https://drazhabtewold.com/three-top-considerations-for-baby-boomer-business-owners-to-exit-successfully/
P.S. The #1 mistake owners make? Thinking “it won’t happen to me.” Spoiler: Life doesn’t care about your timeline. 🔗 Listen now—or regret later.
In this clip, I shared 3 lessons professionals, leaders, & entrepreneurs may consider from the recent podcast launch of California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, who invited, in his first episode, someone from the opposition, Charlie Kirk, Executive Director of Turning Points USA.
I'd not have been surprised if that conversation happened on a third-party platform. I'd not have been astonished if Gavin Newsom is not a sitting governor of California, a state with the largest GDP.
I'd not have been amazed if the governor had invited another governor of a Democratic Party-run state or even an independent one. No! He crossed over and welcomed Charlie, who is known as one of the top debaters in the conservative circle.
I was elated when I witnessed these two gentlemen coming together to have a candid conversation on a platform by one of them because tolerance is one of my most important values. I honor it. I believe in it.
Besides, even if I'm an independent, after losing the 2024 election badly, I hoped the Democratic Party would regroup to recover as soon as possible. And I took this bold move by Gavin, one of its top faces and 2028 hopeful, as a first step toward REINVENTING itself. I firmly believe that when we've strong opposition, it's excellent for the GREATER GOOD. And also for a healthy DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY.
That said, here are the 3 lessons:
1. Creating and nurturing a culture that encourages disagreement. I shared my own upbringing in such a culture and referenced two exemplary companies that have DEBATE as a core value: Bridgewater Associates & Valuetainment
Putting in place the necessary conditions to reinvent oneself effectively. Showed how there must be a GRAND STRATEGY behind why a sitting Governor launched a personal podcast as one of the strategy’s INITIATIVES. Compared the strategies of Walmart and Apple to simplify what strategy is & isn’t. You won’t believe how many interexchange STRATEGY with mere intention, vision, goal… No wonder why many strategic plans EAT DUST…
Adopting the principle of mastery. Explained why many, unlike Charlie, who mastered debate, either don’t believe they can or, even if they do, they drop the ball before they become world-class in what they do.
Postscript: In the clip, I predicted that Gavin may experience, at least in the short term, some setbacks and backlashes for launching such a bold INITIATIVE. I was wrong! At least for now, his popularity increased after inviting conservatives to his podcast. We’ll see what will happen in the future…
Check it out and let me know which one you liked the most...
Which one is hard to strive for, SURVIVAL or THRIVING? Which one should we opt for?
In yesterday's "Talk on the Beach with AZ, I answered this question using an interesting (confrontational) conversation I had last year in VA with a passionate person.
I was schooled by this person when I opened my mouth and talked BIG GAME. I also shared one technique we share with our participants and coachees on how to speak your truth to power diplomatically. That is what I did in this conversation when the person smashed my idea...
Please let me know your feedback on these casual 'Talk on the Beach with AZ' talks. What kind of topics would you like me to address next?
Check it out and let me know your thoughts. Who do you support? Tell me in the chat your vote...
To watch this talk, click here: https://youtu.be/VAwfyw1QAmQ
Leaders who don’t get along with their superiors are ineffective. They can’t get things done and are liabilities to the people they lead. Effective leaders are RESOURCEFUL and go beyond their backyard to attract resources, support, and form alliances that advance the mission of their teams, organizations, and countries.
Regardless of the attached risks, I coach and train emerging and middle leaders to be proactive and go the extra mile to influence their superiors. Some push back and complain that this doesn’t feel authentic. Others protest saying they don’t want to suck up to the boss.
My answer is always simple: This isn’t about you. If you want to serve the greater good and the people who depend on you, you MUST MANAGE UP and bring resources, opportunities, support, approvals, and other needs of your team, organization, or community.
I always strive to draw some leadership lessons from significant events, one of which happened a few weeks ago at the White House where the Presidents of the US and Ukraine had a televised debate. Using this episode, I came up with 5 DON’Ts if you desire to influence your superior or, for that matter, anyone who has more leverage.
A couple of quick disclaimers:
I’m not a political analyst. I’m a leadership expert who uses such major events to share leadership lessons.
I didn’t take sides. I refrained from making any political statements in favor of anyone.
Discussing the lessons on “What not to do if you’re the boss” is beyond the scope of this clip. I didn’t talk about what Trump and Vance, who had more leverage, should have done to make the engagement successful.
I refused to lecture you. For each lesson, I shared my personal and other relevant stories and examples, some of which you may find interesting. For instance, under the “Don’t violate the protocol” lesson, I shared how Winston Churchill, who visited the White House during World War II, dressed up. I also mentioned the dress code that Billionaires follow when they are invited to high places. Under “Don’t misalign with your boss”, I explained, for comparison purposes, how Zelensky, Starmer, Macron, and Putin fared when it comes to influencing Trump.
Listen to this clip to recognize the 5 WHAT NOT TO DO from the episode, and customize and apply those that resonate with you to take your influencing upward competency to the next level.
There are new developments after I recorded the clip, such as lifting the Military Aid and Intelligence Exchange. If you're interested in reading the postscript, go to the bottom of this blog: https://drazhabtewold.com/5-what-not-to-do-if-you-desire-to-influence-your-boss/
By the way, there is talk about Zelensky REVISITING the White House. I’ll watch whether it’ll be a rerun or an improvement. In the former case, things will worsen. In the latter case, I will watch which of the five Don’t Zelensky will honor to turn around the struggling bilateral relationship.
There is no debate among high performers and successful people concerning the importance of growth. It looks like they grow HOLISTICALLY in 3 common development areas.
Of course, they may not grow uniformly in all three growth areas at a given time. They may not also have the same development plan...
Each may adopt different development strategies, approaches, and plans unique to their specific personal preferences and growth goals.
I've seen many courses that neglect one or more of these development areas, failing to help attendees grow holistically.
For both my personal development plan and when we design our programs at The A to Z Institute, we're always mindful during the design phase to ensure that our programs consider these three growth areas.
Here is a clip where I shared the three common growth areas for growing holistically while taking a walk next to a water body...
Check it out when you get a chance, and let me know your thoughts.
Which areas have you been growing?
Which area is most important to you at this stage of your life, career, and business?
Which growth area is challenging for you and your team to develop?
What kind of growth initiatives are you currently engaged in in these three areas?
How can we help?
If you prefer to watch the clip: https://youtu.be/A4EPEA64Yjg
I am taking walk in South Tampa, a beautiful place to take walk- On one side blue ocean water, on the other beautiful homes, and on the horizon, beautiful skyscrapers.
In this short clip, I shared the place while narrating the main points of my recent blog where I shared the importance of investing in ourselves based on a conversation I had with one of my coavhees who is working on his public speaking skills.
If you follow the news, the recent gestures of Elon Musk have drawn fierce criticism from many around the world.
In this audio, I shared my perspective as an African immigrant and Cultural Sensitivity Expert.
Watch it and let me know your take...
Don't forget to check our blogs, videos, and other updates. Follow us also on social media. Go to www.TheAtoZInstitute.com to connect...
If you live in the US, I bet you have heard the name Tony Robbins. I also bet the first thing that came to your mind was a motivational speaker.
In this less than 10-minute clip, I argued why you should change that image of Tony.
Watch it and let me know who Tony means in your life and what you have learned from his life and books.
Here is the link to watch the clip: https://youtu.be/buJRKZMt9Yk
This clip explains one of our 5 services- Programs.
To learn more about our other services, check our website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
To download our catalog: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LS6BhVD3vSaUhCGS3hXmNUu7Jsvtki4L/view
Reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com with any questions or schedule a one-on-one consultative session...
This clip explains one of our 5 services- Speeches.
To learn more about our other services, check our website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
To download our catalog: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LS6BhVD3vSaUhCGS3hXmNUu7Jsvtki4L/view
Reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com with any questions or schedule a one-on-one consultative session...
This clip explains one of our 5 services- Consulting.
To learn more about our other services, check our website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
To download our catalog: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LS6BhVD3vSaUhCGS3hXmNUu7Jsvtki4L/view
Reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com with any questions or schedule a one-on-one consultative session...
Behind every high performer, there are coaches. Show me a highly successful professional, entrepreneur, or leader in any field and I’ll show you a smart and wise person who has coaches that guide him or her behind the scenes. Study all high performers. They have coaches that help them in one or more of the following ways:
Gain clarity,
Think critically and strategically,
Challenge their perspectives,
Get organized and create structure,
Communicate effectively,
Decide quickly,
Expand and scale systematically,
Make quality decisions, and take bold actions, and more.
You and your leadership shouldn’t take the journey you’re on alone. You need coaches to join you on this voyage...
Here is the link if you prefer to watch the entire video: https://youtu.be/l5-txUzMt1g
This clip is taken from a recent audio we shared about how culture is god.
For both individual and collective success, we should know the power culture has over us. We don’t have control over what we don’t know well. We can’t change what we don’t fully understand. One of the self-awareness we all should have personally and collectively is the power of culture and how it molded our personalities and shaped our mentality. Instinctively, all of us would like to improve our lives and transform our teams, organizations, and communities. Sadly, we can’t translate this good intention into reality without fully understanding the power culture holds over us individually and collectively. Understanding and, most importantly, leveraging the power of both societal and corporate cultures is the only way to enjoy the transformation we all desire.
To demonstrate the power of culture, I used an analogy. In this ~ two-minute video clip, I used an interesting analogy from my days as a Veterinary Medicine student. When we were cooking things in the lab :-)
To watch the short clip: https://youtu.be/hqFRe4ftQw8
To watch the entire video, check this out: https://youtu.be/V_3kDngQInM
To listen to the entire audio, check this out: https://www.buzzsprout.com/796475/episodes/16070468#WhyCulture #CorporateCulture #CulturalReform #NavySEALs #Toyota #GeneralElectric #EthiopianAirlines #Japan #SouthKorea #Singapore #China #EconomicMiracles
We all are products of our native cultures. Our personalities are molded, and our mentalities are shaped by our respective cultures. Whether we’re aware of it or not, whether we would like to admit it or not, we’re blind loyal to our cultures. Unfortunately, very few societies, organizations, and teams recognized the power of culture and leveraged the power of culture for their own advantage. In this video clip, I argued why culture is the god of humanity. I also shared which societies and organizations have leveraged this power to experience economic miracles. Check it out and let me know what you think.
If you prefer to watch: https://youtu.be/V_3kDngQInM
This clip explains the workshops that we provide.
To learn more about our other services www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com for any questions or to schedule a one-on-one free consultation session.
This clip highlights the services of The A to Z Institute.
Here is our Catalog: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LS6BhVD3vSaUhCGS3hXmNUu7Jsvtki4L/view
Go to our website to learn more: www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this short clip, using the headbutting between Mark Cuban (who supports Kamala Harris) and David Sachs (who roots for Donal Trump) in their recent conversation on the All-In Podcast, I shared the power of creating a corporate culture that incentivizes and encourages open dialogue and disagreement. I also cited the culture of Bridgewater, a Network-based multibillion-dollar hedge fund founded by Ray Dalio, as a good example. Many Ivy League universities studied this corporate culture (called Radical Transparency) and how it contributed to creativity and innovation.
If you prefer to read, click this link to read the text: https://drazhabtewold.com/the-power-of-corporate-culture-that-encourages-disagreement-and-open-dialogue/
If you would like to watch the video version, click here: https://youtu.be/UvPs2hSwIdE
By the way, don’t hesitate to reach out if you would like us to help you create and sustain a vibrant culture that encourages and incentivizes transparency. We can help you create a pro-feedback culture where your people, throughout the hierarchy, exchange feedback to improve productivity and collaboration.
To learn more about how we can support you and reach out for a one-on-one conversation, please reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
Go to our website to learn more about our services: www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Subscribe to our channel so that you won't miss when we upload the next video.
In this short clip in a car, Dr. AZ shared three things he wished he had known long ago.
To learn more about The A to Z Institute, LLC, check our website at www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this clip, Dr. AZ discussed the most important considerations for becoming a successful negotiator.
If you would like to chat how we may empower your admin staff, professionals, and leaders to negotiate and achieve win-win deals, reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
To learn more about the organizational, leadership, and personal development coaching, consulting, workshops, and programs, check our website at www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this short clip, Dr. AZ shared 3 vehicles leaders may use to make decisions: Emotions, Logic, and Intuition.
To learn more about what we do to empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders, check out our website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Reach out for any questions and/or if you would like our team to design and deliver a workshop or a webinar that enables your leaders to solve problems creatively and make quality decisions promptly: info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this short clip, Dr. AZ encourages why we should stop leaving our stuffs on the proverbial negotiation table.
To learn more about what we do to empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders, check out our website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Reach out for any questions and/or if you would like our team to design and deliver a workshop or webinar on how to negotiate like a pro: info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this short clip, Dr. AZ talked about Why Companies are Willing to Pay Millions for Effective Decision Making CEOs.
To learn more, check out this blog:
To learn more about what we do to empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders, check out website www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
Reach out for any questions: info@TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about why startups struggle to raise capital from investors and shared three important requirements startups need to meet, and more.
DEI is a bone of contention. Some support, advocate, and promote it, while others remain skeptical. I strongly believe that if DEI programs are designed and delivered properly, they bring tremendous results for all inhabitants of the culture and the greater good. Our DEI programs are designed based on adult learning principles and create a safe atmosphere for participants to reflect, share, ask, and engage in constructive dialogues. We know that one DEI session can't result in an equitable and inclusive culture, but it helps, at least, to start the conversation.
In this clip, Dr. AZ Habtewold explains why only a few organizations and teams have achieved inclusion. He shared one of the challenges of creating an inclusive and equitable culture: Micro-Aggressions. AZ then offered one of the strategies to combat micro-inequities: receiving and providing feedback.
If you would like us to help your team or organization create an inclusive and equitable culture and enjoy the full-scale benefits that come with it, reach out via info@TheAtoZInstitute.com if you're in Florida or info@SuccessPathways.net if you're in the DMV area.
Check also our website to learn about other programs we provide:
1. www.SuccessPathways.net
2. www.TheAtoZInstitute.com
In this short video clip (~4 min), I talked about why we should have 360-degree influence. I focused on the most important and challenging of all, Influencing Upwards. Watch it and let me know your thoughts and experience on this. If you find it helpful, please share it with those who may benefit from it.
Have you asked why you aren't at the next level? Did you question if in case there are certain things you missed to elevate yourself to the next stage? If so, here is a clip where I shared my evolution throughout the years and what steps I took to keep advancing. After listening to it, please share your experience. What are you doing to step up your game and fly high to pursue your passion and attain your goals? Hope to hear from you soon...
To learn more about how we may help you and your team grow and go to the next level, check out our website: www.SuccessPathways.net
If you would like to have our 1-pager handy: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OGCM9_TXwaOOV2NiXEenqC7pMrv6v_qc/view?pli=1
If you would like to work with us and benefit from referring our services to potential clients: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pUTFi80cY4paWEdBBoDxCdVyJedjNBqg/view
Reach out to our team at info@SuccessPathways.net to learn how and where we may help you in your journey to the next level.
The overwhelming majority of business and commercial property owners may not know the market value of their business or property. Very few do know. You should join these few elite groups of people.
We are here to help you just do that. In this short clip, I talked about why many owners neglect the truth about life- things could go wrong when we least expect them. I also shared the 3 common criteria most buyers use before they make buying decisions and how myself and my senior partners at eXp Commercial could help you know the market value of your business or property, and more.
For any questions, reach out via assegid.habtewold@expcommercial.com
To learn more about our business brokerage and commercial real estate services, check these two 1_pagers:
a) Business Brokerage 1-pager: b) Business Brokerage: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P-iISFt2TfqGq5aonh1WYtlJyRVhIqhV/view?pli=1
b) Commercial Property 1-pager: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18MUx1V9bbTJDBsDxSm3y367b_MuzDsg6/view
To learn more about our Business Brokerage and Commercial Real Estate services, our Senior Partners, and our Strategic Partners, go to www.AZHabtewoldInvestments.com
Schedule a FREE one-on-one Zoom consultation: https://calendly.com/azhabtewold/30mi...
In this clip, Dr. AZ explains why 60% of new managers fail and how Success Pathways is committed to empowering new supervisors and managers to make a smooth transition and excel at their new leadership roles from the get-go.
To learn more about the 1-day workshop mentioned in the clip: https://www.successpws.com/Excelling-...
To get the eBook of Overcoming 1st Timer eBook for just 1 USD: https://offer.successpws.com/first-ti...
To find some resources designed and packaged for new team leaders, project managers, and supervisors such as Manual, Master Class, and Online Course: https://www.successpws.com/overcoming...
To reach out to our team: info@successpathways.net
Dr. AZ was interviewed by The African Passport Show from South Africa. Some of the discussion points were: 1. What are your vision and objectives at Success Pathways? 2. What advice would you give to most African leaders? 3. How can we permanently resolve ongoing conflicts in most African countries such as Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, etc 4. How can Africa benefit from her citizens living in the diaspora? 5. How can we build the Africa We Want by 2063? 6. What kind of Africa would you like to leave for the next generation?
Once you listen, let me know the most important lesson you got, what went well and what didn't go well, and if there are points that you share or don't share with me.
If you prefer to give your feedback offline, that too works with me. Let me know what you think went well and what can be improved when I'll have another interview with Godfrey or another host in the future? Thanks in advance!
If you want to check out the organizations he mentioned in the interview, here you go: a) Success Pathways, LLC www.successpws.com, and b) PRO Leadership Global, Inc. www.proleadership.org
If you're interested Dr. AZ to speak at your event or facilitate a workshop for your leaders on the theme, check this page where you'll find the synopsis, learning objectives, and more: https://www.successpws.com/feedback
Here is also a link to register and attend a free webinar where you will get free downloads and some irresistible offers in the end: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/7/xqw4oup?fbclid=IwAR2pVSjSfWiKoM6Y1jSAbnGYVy5GfI_2zPFaJ_QLJ7aVj_cbOwtkpo-7y3M If you're interested Dr. AZ to speak at one of your future events, here is the onesheet that provide details such as some potential themes, their synopsis, learning objectives, testimonials, and more: https://www.successpws.com/overcoming-1st-timer-syndrome-onesheet
If you would like to learn more about our other products and services, check our website at www.successpws.com
Reach out if you have any questions @ info@successpws.com
In this clip, Dr. Assegid (AZ) Habtewold invites you to join him and other national and local speakers on Feb 25th as they discuss how to lead in times of change. To learn more and register, check out this Facebook Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/2298616180280388/
In this clip Dr. AZ Habtewold shares three tips to reform your onboarding process to equip your new supervisors, managers, and executives, whether you promoted them from within or hired them from outside, to overcome first-timer syndrome. These are: a) Give more info to these new leaders than you give to new team members, b) Arrange a workshop to help them make a quick transition and excel at their new positions, and c) Enroll them into a long-term leadership development program.
These tips are taken from the recently published Amazon's #1 Bestseller book entitled "Overcoming 1st Timer Syndrome". You can find the book from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-1st-Timer-Syndrome-first-time-ebook/dp/B09C8X4GCM/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Here is also a link to register and attend a free webinar where you will get free downloads and some irresistible offers in the end: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/7/xqw4oup?fbclid=IwAR2pVSjSfWiKoM6Y1jSAbnGYVy5GfI_2zPFaJ_QLJ7aVj_cbOwtkpo-7y3M
If you're interested Dr. AZ to speak at one of your future events, here is the onesheet that provide details such as some potential themes, their synopsis, learning objectives, testimonials, and more: https://www.successpws.com/overcoming-1st-timer-syndrome-onesheet
Dr. Dave Miles interviewed Dr. AZ Habtewold in his podcast 'Conversations on Leadership with Dr. Dave' that runs on KLDR online radio. In this very dynamic discussion, they talked about Dr. AZ's new book, some fundamental and deep leadership concepts. Some of the discussion points were what is leadership means to you, who are good leaders, what makes leaders effective, the importance of character, how to create a conducive culture that allows creativity and innovation, the importance of leading in the midst of conflicts and disagreements, the leadership challenges you faced, biggest mistakes today's leaders are making, how can leaders improve their competencies and more. Listen to it when you get a chance and give us your feedback. Please share it with others who may benefit from it. To learn more about Dr. AZ, check out his personal website www.assegid.com and his company www.successpws.com
Dr. AZ Habtewold talked about how we can help you create a unique culture for a competitive edge. For more, reach out via email: info@successpws.com Check also our website at www.successpws.com
This audio clip promotes the upcoming book 'Overcoming 1st Timer Syndrome', which is now #1 New Releases on Amazon. To learn more about the book such as its synopsis, endorsements, preface, who will benefit from the book, outline, and so on, check out this page: https://www.successpws.com/overcoming-1st-timer-syndrome-synopsis To take advantage and secure the .99 USD promotional price till the publication date on August 26, go to Amazon and place your order: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09C8X4GCM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_8QQRPNJ1XAEY66Y8Q7V0 #1sttimersyndrome #TeamLeader #projectmanager #emergingleader #Supervisor
Dr. AZ interviewed Dr. Trina Lynch Jackson in his show Pick Yourself Up, which airs on MMCTV Channel 16. In this video clip, AZ shared the 3 takeaways he took from the interview he had with Trina. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9xixwyljgDU Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ interviewed Chandra Gary in his show Pick Yourself Up, which airs on MMCTV Channel 16. In this episode, AZ shared the 3 takeaways he took from the interview he had with Chandra. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Fp1tfbOfmdU Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ interviewed Mashaal Ahmed, former President of ATD DC Metro chapter. In this audio clip, AZ shared the 3 takeaways he took from the interview. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_TrEUeIiPmY Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ was interviewed by Helen on ebs. Her show is one of the most-watched shows in Ethiopia and in the diaspora among the Ethiopian communities around the world. We encourage you to watch her past, present, and future episodes if you understand Amharic. In this audio clip, AZ shared the 3 takeaways he took from the interview he had with Helen. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z23sXi5LnQUFollow Apologies for those who don't understand Amharic. It was conducted in Amharic. Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ interviewed Council Member Will Jawando. In this video clip, AZ shared the 3 takeaways he took from the interview. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GVl9gXUpuYo Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ had the opportunity to interview Dr. Wondwossen Gebreyes, a Professor and Executive Director of Global One Health Initiative, who have an extraordinary immigrant story of transformation from underdog to topdog- from parking attendant to global health advisor to nations In this video clip, AZ shared the 3 lessons he learned from the interview. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpZlN... Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ had the opportunity to interview the legendary speaker and author of the classic book "Setbacks are Setups for Comebacks", Dr. Willie Jolley on his show Pick Yourself Up, which runs on MMCTV. In this video clip, AZ shared the 3 top takeaways for him from the interview. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUSRl... Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
Dr. AZ had the opportunity to interview Rocky Kandola who made an amazing transformation from underdog to topdog- from prison to Beverly Hills Los Angeles, California. In this video clip, AZ shared the 3 takeaways for him from the interview. You can watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPkR4... Follow Dr. AZ on social media in order not to miss future interviews, and also read his empowering regular posts. Go to www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the left top corner. You can also share with him your feedback and suggestions via email: assegid@successpws.com
In this episode, Dr. AZ offered the four elements of topdog psychology. The underdogs turned topdogs were fearless, the didn't get scared of the giants in their field. They didn't put their heroes and heroines on a pedestal. They honored and sought their advice, and mentoring but they believed that they too were special and can become great in their own unique ways. They tapped into a higher power. They didn't depend on their physical and intellectual capacity, and resources and networks within their backyards alone. They also were players. Even if they knew that the system was rigged against them, the playing field wasn't labeled, the game and its rules weren't fair, they rolled their sleeves up and played with the belief that if they work harder and go the extra mile they could win and also influence the system and create a labeled field if not for them for future generations of underdogs. Watch the clip, share your thoughts. Which elements do you already have? On which ones should you be working on? Who among the topdogs you admire possess this psychology? Share this episode with those who may benefit from it. Subscribe, if you've not yet to this podcast. Follow Dr. AZ on social media as he shares multiple posts on a daily basis. Go to www.assegid.com to sign up for his eNewsLetter for free, and follow him on social media. #TopDogPsychology #UnderDogToTopDog #DrAZ #DavidAndGoliath #SteveJobs #MartinLutherKingJr #MahtmaGandhi #BarackObama #KobeBryant #MichaelJordan #RichardMontanez
In Episode 16 (The 4 Stages of Greatness), Dr. AZ Habtewold shared the 4 major stages the great ones from diverse cultures and generations path through to unchain their greatness. By taking from his book 'Unchain Your Greatness', he explained the 4Es: Explore your greatness, Enact on your discoveries, Endure till the end, and Emancipate your greatness to the fullest,.
Dr. AZ shared some insights, examples, and stories to empower you to follow the framework the great ones before you used to manifest their unique greatness.
Make sure to subscribe to this podcast so that you won't miss future episodes.
Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts inspirational and informative messages and tips on a daily basis. Go to www.successpws.com to learn more about his books including the one he used in this episode.
Dr. AZ recapped the main discussion point of Episode 14 (What is & isn't Greatness), which focused on demystifying misunderstandings around the concept of greatness and redefined true greatness. In that episode, he also pointed out that while the world has been rattled by the COVID19 pandemic and mourning the loss of lives and destruction of careers and businesses, we were greeted with the nonsense brutal murder of an unarmed already cuffed man in daylight by a brutal law enforcement official. Dr. AZ noted that this unfortunate incident on the soil of America- a country that supposed to be a symbol of freedom and justice around the world, brought diverse people worldwide to demand justice, equality, institutional reforms, and policy changes. Nonetheless, Dr. AZ emphasized in the last episode that such changes take years and sometimes even decades that while all of us playing our part in institutional reforms and policy changes collectively without losing sight to work on ourselves to earn respect, for which we have absolute control. By the way, that is why he decided to produce a series of episodes to empower underdogs to transform their lives into great during their lifetime, to become topdogs in the field of their choice. In Episode 15 (Destroying Victim Mentality), he used contemporary great ones such as Obama, Oprah, and Les Brown to show how these underdogs overcame and finally became topdogs in their respective industries regardless of the existence of victimizing people and systems because they had destroyed victim mentality. He also shared his recent victim mentality and how he finally destroyed it when he increased his awareness, changed his thoughts, and took actions. He also shared how victim mentality is formed, and the approaches one can use to destroy victim mentality. In this episode, Dr. AZ also invited his viewers to attend a free webinar entitled "Leading Emotions in Times of Crisis". Follow this link to register and attend the webinar and enjoy the irresistible exclusive offers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCfhR--19_w&t=3s The offers include getting Dr. AZ's eBook for only 2.99 USD, the online course for 1st timer Team Leads, Project Managers, Supervisors, and Business Owners for only 29 USD, and a chance to be one of a very few coachees. Make sure to subscribe to this channel so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to learn more about our products and services.
Dr. AZ began this episode by recognizing the two major crises we are facing right now: a global pandemic caused by COVID19 and a national crisis following the brutal murder of George Floyd. He emphasized that all of us should play our part in institutional reforms and policy changes collectively. Nonetheless, he also stressed that such changes take time. Thus, in the meantime, Dr. AZ encouraged each one of us to work on ourselves for which we have control without waiting for anyone. We can begin working on ourselves right away without waiting days, weeks, months, years, and until institutions and policies to change. We can begin earning respect individually while demanding fairness and equality collectively. We can start today to transform ourselves from underdogs to great; from underdogs to top dogs in the area of our passion. However, he acknowledged that there are many misunderstandings and myths that prevent many from believing that they are greatness material. In this episode, he answered the questions of what is and isn't greatness. He clarified some misunderstandings that have kept many from claiming their birthright of greatness. By giving some examples, he showed some of the faulty beliefs that have kept people from embracing the concept of greatness. He also defined what true greatness means. In this episode, he also invited his viewers to attend a free webinar entitled "Leading Emotions in Times of Crisis". Follow this link to register and attend the webinar and enjoy the irresistible exclusive offers: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/2/w8q70t4 The offers include getting Dr. AZ's eBook for only 2.99 USD, the online course for 1st timer Team Leads, Project Managers, Supervisors, and Business Owners for only 29 USD, and a chance to be one of a very few coachees. Make sure to subscribe to this channel so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to learn more about our products and services.
In this Episode, Dr. AZ talked about the importance of going beyond surviving the COVID19 era. This is time to position yourself to outlast and thrive in the aftermath of this crisis. He gave three important decisions you have to make to position yourself to thrive in the aftermath: To conduct reform, grow, and innovate. He gave the example of Kodak vs. Fuji Films, and Ethiopian Airlines to show you what it takes to go beyond surviving to outlast and thrive in the aftermath to remain relevant in the new normal. Make sure to subscribe to this podcast so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to check out his recent online course for team leads, project managers, supervisors, and business owners.
In this episode, Dr. AZ summarized Episode 10 & 11 and chatted about dilemmas leaders face during times of crisis. This episode is an extension of Episode 11. If you haven't yet listened to that episode, go back and listen to it in order to get the full context. He said that crisis breeds chaos. Things become unpredictable. This demands leaders who lead in the midst of contradictions very well. Leaders who are willing to bust their own boundaries. Leaders who come out of their comfort zone. Leaders who challenge their own style, preference, system, and those who have the willingness to change their approaches, reform their institutions, and continue to adapt to the unpredictable situations they face during times of distress. In this episode, Dr. AZ shared some of the dilemmas leaders may face. He also suggested how to deal dilemma during times of crisis. Make sure to subscribe to this podcast so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to check out his recent online course for team leads, project managers, supervisors, and business owners.
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about the kind of leadership we need during times of crisis. He said that crisis makes or breaks one's leadership. Pointing to leaders from history, he showed how the leadership of the great ones came to life during times of crisis. He also emphasized that we need strong leadership at all time even during peacetime. However, we need it more than ever during times of crisis. Sharing the stories of some leaders who were tested by a crisis, he pointed out that this crisis can be used as a steppingstone than viewed as a stumbling block. Dr. AZ also offered the 7 most important leadership qualities necessary when we face crises. To learn more about these 7 attributes of leadership during times of crisis, listen to this podcast. Make sure to subscribe to this channel so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow Dr. AZ on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to check out his recent online course for team leads, project managers, supervisors, and business owners.
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about how this pandemic is a crisis. He defined a crisis, its most common features, and how we all, especially underdogs, should view crisis. By giving very practical personal and corporate examples, the story of David vs. Goliath, Dr. AZ explained how we should view the current crisis, how we should see it as an opportunity to challenge ourselves, step up, and meet the demands of the hour. Make sure to subscribe to this channel so that you won't miss future episodes. Go to www.assegid.com to follow him on social media as he posts multiple times each day inspirational and informative messages and tips. Go to www.successpws.com to check out his recent online course for team leads, project managers, supervisors, and business owners.
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about the need to demonstrate leadership at the personal and corporate levels to demonstrate resilience and outlast this pandemic. He shared a portion of an audio clip from his upcoming online course entitled 'Deliver Results'. To learn more about the online course, and enroll within the first 72 hours of its launch to benefit from a huge discount and bonuses, click here: https://www.successpws.com/first-timer
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about the importance of owning your new place to overcome first-timer syndrome. In the previous episode, he talked about how to know one's place. In this episode, he took it to the next level and showed how to tap into the knowing to be in charge from the get-go. He emphasized the significance of 'owning your place' in order to succeed in your current or future first-timer leadership position as a team lead, project manager, supervisor or business owner. Knowledge is power. It sets you free. It causes you to develop confidence and in turn to look and act in charge of your new leadership position. But, only knowledge that is applied that delivers. Don't forget to subscribe so that you will be notified when a new episode is uploaded. Like, comment, and also share this podcast with those who may benefit from it. Subscribe also to the email list to join an upcoming 7-days challenge to overcome the first-timer syndrome where Dr. AZ will send you free video clips and worksheets. To join this challenge go to www.assegid.com and sign up for the email list.
In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about the significance of knowing your new place to overcome first-timer syndrome. To learn more about why we experience this syndrome, check out episode 6. In this episode, he talked about the need to 'know your place' in order to succeed in your current or future first-timer leadership position as a team lead, project manager, supervisor or business owner. Knowledge is power. It sets you free. It causes you to develop confidence and in turn to look and act in charge of your new leadership position. Don't forget to subscribe so that you will be notified when a new episode is uploaded. Like, comment, and also share this podcast with those who may benefit from it. Subscribe also to the email list to join an upcoming 7-days challenge to overcome the first-timer syndrome where Dr. AZ will send you free video clips and worksheets. To join this challenge go to www.assegid.com and sign up for the email list.
In this episode, Dr. AZ emphasized the importance of always challenging our beliefs, philosophies, and principles to make sure that they are up to date and working in our favor since they dictate how we think, talk, behave and act. To learn more about the most important principles underdogs need to understand and practice to transform themselves into greats, check out the previous 5 episodes. In Episode 6, Dr. AZ talked about why the transition to a new first timer leadership role is tough and why that happens. In the upcoming few episodes, he will give more insights, tools, and approaches that will empower you to succeed in your current or future first-timer leadership position as a team lead, project manager, supervisor or business owner. Don't forget to subscribe so that you will be notified when a new episode is uploaded. Like, comment, and also share this podcast with those who may benefit from it. Subscribe also to the email list to join an upcoming 7-days challenge to overcome the first-timer syndrome where Dr. AZ will send you free video clips and worksheets. To join this challenge go to www.assegid.com and sign up for the email list.
This episode concludes the previous four episodes. If you haven't listened to them, make sure to check them out before listening to this episode. This episode presents the top 3 success principles that empower underdogs to transform themselves into greats during their lifetime. Dr. AZ shared the principles and his own personal story from more than 2 decades ago when he was preparing to become the student leader of the largest students' union in his country. The next few episodes will focus on equipping first-timer leaders- team leads, supervisors, managers, and business owners. It equips underdog first-timers to have the right mindset, competencies, and personality to make a successful transition into their new leadership role and remain successful. In order not to miss the upcoming episodes, subscribe to this podcast. Like, leave your comment, and share it with others if you find it helpful. You should also follow Dr. AZ on social media by going to his website www.assegid.com and you will find the social media icons on the top left side.
There must be a connection between what you believe, speak, and act. If you have been wondering why what you believe and talk about doesn't match the actual results, this is time to ask whether you are taking action. The difference between those who are advancing and those who are staying in one place in life, career, and business is the former's commitment to take both seemingly little, and sometimes massive actions. In this episode, Dr. AZ shares the significance of becoming a person of deeds, especially for underdogs. He shared some analogies, examples, and stories including his own. He also gave three things you should do to make sure you become a person of deeds. Your deeds must match with what you believe and talk. To achieve the results that you deserve to, begin taking some bold actions, and many seemingly small actions to transform yourself from underdog to great. To make sure that you won't miss future episodes by getting notifications as soon as new episodes are uploaded, subscribe to this podcast, follow and engage with Dr. AZ on social media by going to his website www.assegid.com
Words have power, especially the ones that we believe in. In this episode, Dr. AZ shares some insights and ways on how to talk right in order to shape our destiny than destroy or sabotage it. Using some scientific experiments and stories including his own, he equips you in this episode to talk right, and therefore position yourself in your rightful place. To make sure that you won't miss future episodes, get notifications as soon as new episode becomes available, subscribe to this podcast, follow and engage with Dr. AZ on social media by going to his website www.assegid.com
Have you been struggling to stand out? Have you wondered why some people and companies are so competitive and always on top? Are you wondering how you may excel in what you do? If you said yes to one of these questions, this episode is for you. In this episode, Dr. AZ talked about the importance of serving based on your uniqueness, your competitive advantage. He emphasized that as an underdog, you cannot afford to be like everybody else. You must differentiate yourself from the crowd. When you do that you remain relevant wherever you go and wherever you serve. He encourages you, if you have not yet, to pick your unique lane. It is not crowded and allows you to excel. As far as you are serving the world, your clients, customers based on your unique path, you flourish and tap into your unlimited potential. In this episode, he pointed out how successful people and companies carved their own unique brand to remain competitive even in bad times. He also shared 3 potential areas where you could find your uniqueness. He also shared his own experience of how he has been attempting to serve based on his uniqueness. If you haven't yet, subscribe to this podcast, share it with the people that you care about, continue to engage with Dr. AZ on social media as he further shares daily inspirational posts on this the same theme. Go to www.assegid.com to follow him on social media. Stay tuned for the next episode.
Underdogs have a messed up past and maybe present. Otherwise, they won’t qualify as underdogs. Unfortunately, many underdogs preoccupy themselves on what they don’t have and what is missing in the now. Few underdogs focus on their potential, who they can become, and where they are heading. Such underdogs, when they interact with themselves in their mind and with other people, they base the conversation on not the realities but their potential.
Huge difference! If you allow the small self-critic voice in you or wrong people who don't genuinely love and care about you, they may want to interact with you based on who you were & what you have done- mainly your mistakes and missteps. Refuse to participate!
Regardless of where you were and what you have done both good and bad, this is a clean new chance you got this year. Because of your limitless potential, you aren't bound to your past. You can rewrite your past, shape today and the future if you believe in the greatness seed that dwells in you. In the New Year, be alert and superconscious as you interact with yourself and others. It should be based on who you CAN BECOME and where you are heading, not based on the ‘beating’ you took the previous day, week, month, year, or decade.
However, I understand that it isn't easy to look at yourself on the other side of the mirror every day knowing that you were 'beaten' badly or 'knocked out' the previous day and/or had many misfortunes, missteps, and disappointments last month or year, and you are now up for another fight where you aren't sure of the outcome yet. Likewise, it is frustrating if you look at the guy on the other side of the mirror who doesn't have yet the head start he/she needs to enter into that business, profession, or competition.
But, the underdogs who believe in themselves and the potential they carry, they acknowledge the uphill battle they face and recognize the scars they retained in the past. However, they will tell you also that they're happy that they are still standing and alive after that bad beating, knockout, and disappointments.
What makes them special? They stand in front of the mirror every day leaping and licking their wounds but refuse to complain, let alone quit. They look at a bruised underdog on the other side of the mirror but at the same time, they don’t see a beaten-down person who is finished but someone who will win in the end. They stand there thankful because they have another fighting chance, another day to rewrite their past defeats and shape their today and future. It is a choice, and we all should choose like these underdogs.
Refuse to settle for less than your true potential, which awaits you to unchain it! Your future is glorious! And, it can begin this year, no need to wait years to manifest your greatness. Start releasing your potential one-day at a time.
Those underdogs who vowed to tap into their potential always have a better future. They don't cut short themselves by presenting themselves, negotiating, and dealing based on their past. Your best days are still ahead. You have untapped potential. Don't give up too soon, lower the bar, fold your tent, and act like you are tired or retired. New Year, New & better You!!!
Listen to this episode where I shared some insightful analogies and simple but powerful steps you can take to remain focused on your potential. As a typical underdog, I also shared my own stories about how I dealt with the small self-critic voice within, disappointments, belittling, and so on. Listen to it and share your thoughts, subscribe not to miss future episodes, share it with those who may benefit from it, especially those who are experiencing temporal defeats and disappointments. Remain connected on social media by going to www.assegid.com
We all have some approaches that we have been using to get prepared for the New Year. Many of us strategize, plan, prioritize what we’re going to do in the New Year. In this video clip, I’m sharing with you one New Year strategic approach successful people use: Assigning a theme for the New Year. I adopted this approach for years and have seen some amazing results and I would like you to try it.
Remember, we are underdogs. Unlike others, we don’t have the luxury to do things on the go without pre-planning. We have limited finance, few connections, and so on. We have to prioritize where we would like to spend our limited resources. We need to be extraordinarily strategic.
I know some of you hate to sit down and spend a lot of time to strategize and plan. This is not your preference nor fun. However, I warn you that, as an underdog, you cannot excel and attain your unique greatness without developing this habit. Start it small scale, read, attend seminars, get coaching, but by all means, develop this soft skill.
In this video clip, however, my focus wasn’t on how to strategize, prioritize, and plan. I wrote about these themes on my books and also I do facilitate workshops on time and energy management and strategic planning, maybe I’ll record a video on this in the future. For today, I am focusing on how to recognize one area that makes or breaks your success next year, and how to zoom in and give it your priority and attention, which in turn brings extraordinary results.
I first saw successful people using it. Some pronounced the theme of their next year while others did it quietly. In both cases, I watched them giving that theme prime attention, their messages, products, and services were aligned alongside the theme.
Then, I decided to use this strategic approach in my own life. I shared in the podcast what my theme was 7 or 6 years ago, and also my next year’s theme.
Listen to this podcast in its entirety. If you find it helpful share with the people you know who may benefit from this single approach that can bring a magnificent turnaround in their life, profession, business, and more.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast in order not to miss upcoming episodes. Connect with me on social media by going to my website www.assegid.com
Happy New Year!