ThrivingInUncertainty's podcast: Recent Episodes

Meridith Elliott Powell

Thriving in Uncertainty, Common Sense Solutions in Uncommon Times is where you hear the inspiring stories of how everyday business professionals forged unconventional paths to success. Learn new insights from business thought leaders and visionaries who made dramatic gains in self-awareness, discovered breakthrough new strategies or blazed whole new trails that shifted and transformed the ways to succeed in today’s economy. In the ever changing, uncertain, crazy rollercoaster of the world of business, you can thrive in ways you may never have imagined before. Put this crisis behind you and emerge successful.

With Special Guest: Richard Newman, Founder and CEO of Body Talk

Most leaders think a failed change initiative comes down to a bad strategy. Usually, it comes down to bad delivery. In this episode of Ask for Change, I sit down with Richard Newman, founder and CEO of Body Talk and author of the bestseller Lift Your Impact. Richard has trained over 150,000 leaders at companies like Microsoft, Virgin, and 3M. His path started in an unlikely place. He was a painfully shy teenager who spent six months in a Himalayan monastery with monks who spoke no English. That forced silence became the foundation of his career.

Richard's research with UCL psychology professor Adrian Furnham surveyed more than 2,000 people worldwide. The results are hard to argue with. A few specific shifts in posture and presence changed how people voted for a candidate by 59 percent. Nonverbal signals move an audience 42 to 44 percent more than words alone.

We talk about why teams lose trust in a leader before that leader even speaks. We break down the three Cs every leader needs during change: clarity, care, and courage. And we unpack why the habits you call "just who I am" are actually the habits holding your influence back.

If your organization is running into change fatigue, this episode gives you a different lever to pull. Not new words. A new presence.

Connect with Richard:

http://www.richardnewmanspeaks.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardnewmanspeaks/

https://www.instagram.com/richardnewmanspeaks/

With Special Guest: Brian Biro, America's Breakthrough Coach and Bestselling Author of The ROI of Kindness

Kindness has an image problem in business. Brian Biro has spent decades proving that image is wrong.

In this episode, Meridith welcomes her longtime mentor Brian Biro, "America's Breakthrough Coach," to make the case that kindness is not a soft skill leaders can afford to skip. It is the foundation of trust, performance, and results. Brian traces his passion for kindness back to his own mentor, legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, and shows why the companies that top every industry, from Southwest Airlines to Starbucks to Kaiser Permanente, all share kindness as a core value.

Brian introduces his ESPN framework for building people: deliver thanks with real Effort and energy, use the power of Surprise, be fully Present, and choose Now over "as soon as." He and Meridith also tackle the question every leader eventually faces: how do you stay kind while still holding people accountable? Through stories, including Coach Wooden confronting a star player over a broken team rule, and Meridith's own story of delivering hard feedback to a talented young executive, they show that real kindness means telling someone the truth because you believe in what they can become, not withholding it to protect their feelings, or yours.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why the Pygmalion effect means what you focus on in your people is what you create in them
The ESPN framework for building trust: Effort and energy, Surprise, Presence, and Now
Why kindness and accountability are not opposites, and how to deliver a hard message with genuine care
The difference between being liked and being respected, and why leaders who chase the first lose both
Brian's closing truth: "The love we fail to share is the only pain we live with"

If you lead people through uncertainty and want a culture that performs and holds together, this conversation gives you the blueprint.

Connect with Brian Biro: brianbiro.com | Book: The ROI of Kindness

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbiro/

With Special Guest: Anne Bonney, Change Management Authority, International Keynote Speaker, and Author of Get Over It! and Get Them Over It!

Most people spend their whole career running from discomfort. Anne Bonney built hers by running straight at it.

In this episode, Meridith sits down with change management authority Anne Bonney, who traces her path from a childhood spent moving across four continents to training seals and sea lions at the Boston Aquarium to a corner office job in New York City that looked perfect on paper and left her unable to get out of bed. Anne shares the moment she realized having the title, the salary, and the city she loved was not the same as having a life she wanted, and the leap she took into her parents' basement in Michigan to rebuild from scratch as a change speaker and author.

Anne and Meridith dig into what actually moves people through uncertainty: shifting from an external locus of control to an internal one, focusing energy only on what you can act on, and letting go of the anger you feel toward everyone else. They also unpack what leaders get wrong about difficult conversations, including the shift from calling people out to calling them in, and why teams trust a leader who is consistently direct far more than one who is inconsistently nice.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why "what can I control right now" is the single most useful question in a season of change
The difference between an internal and external locus of control, and why it determines your resilience
How one manager's simple question, "what are you worried about, what are you mad about, what are you losing," turned a scary company-wide change into a team that trusted him
Why being liked and being respected are not the same goal, and choosing wrong costs you both
The teapot metaphor for feelings, and why bottling them up always ends the same way

If you are navigating your own basement moment, or leading a team through one, Anne's closing advice says it best: don't do it alone.

Connect with Anne Bonney: yourchangespeaker.com | Books: Get Over It! and Get Them Over It!

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/annebonney

Facebook or Instagram: @SpeakerAnneBonney

Using Humor to Find the Success in Uncertainty

With Special Guest: Joel Zeff, Work Culture Expert, Keynote Speaker & Author

Uncertainty is serious business. But the leaders who navigate it best may have one thing in common: they never stopped having fun.

In this episode, Meridith sits down with Joel Zeff — work culture expert, improv performer, and author of Make the Right Choice — to make the case that laughter is not a soft skill. It is a competitive advantage hiding in plain sight.

Joel has spent 25-plus years turning corporate audiences into improv performers and proving that the same instincts that make a great improv scene — listening, adapting, supporting your team, saying yes — are exactly the instincts that make a great leader.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why improv is not just entertainment — it is one of the most powerful leadership development tools available
How fun drives engagement, passion, and performance in ways that money simply cannot replicate
The one question every leader should be asking their team — and almost never does
Why the ability to embrace change is a choice, and how to start making that choice consistently
How creating psychological safety for mistakes unlocks creativity, risk-taking, and results

Whether your team is burned out, playing it safe, or just going through the motions, this episode is the permission slip to lead differently — and the roadmap to make it stick.

Special offer from Joel: Mention Ask for Change when you connect with him and receive a free chapter from his new book on change.

Connect with Joel Zeff: joelzeff.com | LinkedIn: Joel Zeff

The Power of Abundance

With Special Guest: Dr. Mitchell Levy, Global Credibility Expert & Executive Coach

When uncertainty hits, most leaders default to scarcity. They protect, they contract, they play defense. What if the leaders who win are the ones who choose something different?

In this episode, Meridith sits down with Dr. Mitchell Levy — global credibility expert, executive coach, and member of the Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches — to explore what executive abundance actually means, why it matters in a world of constant disruption, and how the right framework changes everything.

Dr. Mitchell spent years researching credibility, clarity, and leadership before arriving at a concept that cuts to the root of why so many executives struggle to translate vision into results. His book, Executive Abundance, is the product of a PhD dissertation that proved academically what he had seen in practice for decades.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why 98% of executives lack clarity — and why that single gap undermines everything else
The Executive Abundance Engine: the four interdependent components every leader needs in order
Why the quarterly-numbers-only framework is costing companies their people, their customers, and their future
How abundance thinking reframes the five stakeholder groups every leader is responsible to
Why frameworks are not just strategy tools — they are the bridge between vision and execution

In times of uncertainty, the leaders who hold onto scarcity thinking fall behind. The ones who build a new framework move forward. This episode shows you how.

Connect with Dr. Mitchell Levy: mitchelllevy.com

Being Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With

With Special Guest: David Avrin, Customer Experience Expert & Bestselling Author

Your product is good. Your team is good. Your pricing is competitive. So why are customers still leaving?

In this episode, Meridith sits down with internationally in-demand keynote speaker and customer experience strategist David Avrin to tackle the question most businesses never think to ask: how hard is it to actually do business with you?

David has spent decades helping organizations across the globe rethink how they serve customers, build loyalty, and grow in a marketplace where quality alone is no longer a differentiator. His latest book, Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With, is the manifesto every business owner and executive needs right now.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why ease of doing business has overtaken price as the primary driver of customer decisions
The difference between necessary friction and the unnecessary friction that is quietly costing you customers
Why chatbots, contact forms, and rigid policies are driving your best clients straight to your competitors
How uncertainty in the marketplace amplifies customer frustration — and what you can do about it
The one question every leader should ask: what is it like to be your own customer?

If you have worked hard to earn your customers' trust, do not lose them over something you can fix. This episode will show you exactly where to start.

Connect with David Avrin: davidavrin.com | LinkedIn: David Avrin

With Special Guest: Brandon Hance, Serial Entrepreneur, Investor, and High-Performance Coach

What separates leaders who perform at the highest level under pressure from those who crack when it counts? According to serial entrepreneur and high-performance coach Brandon Hance, it's not talent. It's not even strategy. It's identity - and most leaders have never taken the time to define theirs. In this intellectually rich and practically grounded episode of Ask for Change, Meridith sits down with Brandon to explore the inner work that high performers across sports, business, and entrepreneurship consistently credit for their competitive edge. Brandon draws on his experience playing under legendary USC coach Pete Carroll - and winning back-to-back national championships - to break down the four mindset shifts that separate performers who rise under pressure from those who collapse: moving from fear to love, from projection to presence, from self-centeredness to selflessness, and from drift to deliberate identity. He and Meridith connect these frameworks directly to the business challenges leaders are facing right now - how to build cultures of transparency and alignment, why speed and shared vision are inseparable, and why the next frontier of human performance will be unlocked through inner work, not harder work. Brandon reframes resilience in a way that will stay with you: it's not about how high you can go, it's about your rate of return to center. Raise the floor, not just the ceiling. If you lead a team, run a company, or are simply trying to perform at your best in one of the most uncertain markets in recent memory, this episode delivers the strategies and the mindset to do exactly that.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonhance/

X: @brandonhance_

With Special Guest: Mark Hunter, "The Sales Hunter" and Author of Integrity Selling

In a marketplace flooded with noise, shortcuts, and quarterly pressure, integrity has become one of the rarest competitive advantages in sales. And according to Mark Hunter, that's exactly why it's the most powerful one. In this candid and compelling episode of Ask for Change, Meridith sits down with her Sales Logic co-host and one of the most respected voices in professional selling, Mark Hunter, to talk about his newest book Integrity Selling and why he believes now is precisely the right moment to make integrity the foundation of every sales conversation. Mark and Meridith go deep on what integrity actually looks like in practice - from referring a customer to a competitor when you're not the right fit, to showing your homework in a complex sale, to calling out the quarter-end games that quietly destroy trust and long-term revenue. Mark shares a defining personal story about closing a deal he knew was wrong, and the painful consequences that followed years later, a reminder that in sales, you're not closing deals, you're opening relationships. They also tackle the harder question: what do you do when the pressure to hit a number comes from the top and your own integrity is at stake? Mark's answer is uncomfortable and honest. This episode is essential listening for sales leaders, business development professionals, and any executive who wants to build a culture where trust is the strategy, not an afterthought.

www.TheSalesHunter.com

With Special Guest: Dr. Mary Kelly, Co-Author of Leadership is Tough (with Peter Stark)

Leadership looks easy when the market is good. It's when conditions get hard that you find out who's actually running a great organization - and who's just been riding a favorable tide. In this high-energy episode of Ask for Change, Meridith welcomes back one of the show's most popular guests, Dr. Mary Kelly, to dig into her new book Leadership is Tough, co-authored with business strategist Peter Stark. Mary pulls no punches on what actually separates great leaders from average ones in a change-fatigued, uncertain world: the disciplines they practice daily, the decisions they make before the decision gets made for them, and the accountability they hold even when it's uncomfortable. She and Meridith unpack the real cost of letting uncertainty dictate business decisions, why the best people leave organizations where accountability is selectively enforced, and how leaders who fail to constantly reinforce vision watch their teams revert to old behaviors under pressure. Mary's chapter on holding the line without breaking trust is worth the price of admission alone - it maps out all four layers of accountability and the specific ways organizations erode from the inside out when leaders look the other way. Her closing advice is direct and actionable: action trumps uncertainty. You don't have to have all the answers. You just need to pick a direction and move. If you're a leader who's been waiting for conditions to stabilize before you make your next move, this episode is your wake-up call.

youtube.com/@MaryKellySpeaker

linkedin.com/in/drmarykelly/

x.com/marykellyspeaks

With Special Guest: Steve Bonar, EVP, Conklin Company

Most leaders coast once they earn the title. The ones who build lasting teams — and lasting results — never do.

In this episode, Meridith sits down with Steve Bonar, Executive Vice President of the Conklin Company, to talk about what it actually takes to lead, sell, and grow when the pace of change is relentless and uncertainty is the only constant.

Steve has spent 25 years developing entrepreneurs and leading large sales organizations inside one of the most relationship-driven industries in business. His perspective is practical, proven, and direct.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why "systems permit ordinary people to achieve extraordinary results" — and what that means for how you build your team
The mindset shift that separates leaders who fold under pressure from those who drive performance through it
Why obstacles are not blocking your road to success. They are the road.
How to keep your people motivated and focused when uncertainty keeps escalating
The rearview mirror principle — and why most leaders are looking in the wrong direction

If you are leading a team, building a business, or trying to find your footing in a marketplace that will not hold still, this episode delivers the strategies you need to stop managing uncertainty and start leveraging it.

Connect with Steve Bonar: conklin.com

With Special Guest: Jeannie Walters, Founder of Experience Investigators

Your competitors are not just disrupting your market. They are stealing your customers, one bad experience at a time.

In this episode, Meridith sits down with customer experience pioneer Jeannie Walters to break down why most organizations treat CX like fairy dust — and why that is costing them revenue they cannot see leaving.

Jeannie is the founder of Experience Investigators, creator of the Customer Experience Investigation Framework, and author of the new book Experience Is Everything. She has spent two decades helping organizations turn good intentions into measurable business results.

What you will take away from this conversation:

Why customer experience is not a department — it is a discipline that lives across every function of your organization
The three-part framework (mindset, strategy, discipline) that separates companies who talk about CX from the ones who profit from it
Why your C-suite dashboards are hiding the real cost of poor customer experience
How uncertainty in the marketplace is actually your window to build deeper customer loyalty — if you move first

If you lead a team, own a business, or sit in the C-suite, this episode will change how you see every customer interaction — and what it is actually worth.

Connect with Jeannie Walters: experienceinvestigators.com | LinkedIn: Jeannie Walters Experience Is Everything — available now at experienceiseverythingbook.com

With Special Guest: Jim Alling, Former President of Starbucks U.S. and COO of T-Mobile

What does it actually look like to lead through uncertainty at the highest levels of corporate America - and never lose yourself in the process? In this rare and candid episode of Ask for Change, Meridith sits down with Jim Alling, a C-suite veteran whose career spans Nestle, Starbucks, T-Mobile, and Tom's Shoes, for a masterclass in values-driven leadership. Jim shares the defining decisions that shaped his career - including walking away from a senior role at Starbucks because his son's health came first, and later leaving the coveted international president role because he was gone 35 weeks a year and losing his joy in the process.

But this episode isn't just personal - it's a playbook. Jim breaks down the servant leadership philosophy he learned from legendary Starbucks executive Howard Behar, including why the org chart should be flipped upside down, why your front-line employees are your most valuable intelligence source, and why trust always grows a business faster than protection. His advice for facing uncertainty is disarmingly direct: your attitude is the most determinant factor in your outcome. Leaders who are navigating pressure from shareholders, managing rapid change, and trying to hold onto their best people will find this conversation both grounding and actionable.

With Special Guest: Michael Neece, President of Our Future Is Kind and Co-Founder of the Human Summit

In a marketplace driven by quarterly results, relentless urgency, and constant disruption, kindness rarely makes the shortlist of competitive strategies. But what if it should?

In this episode of Ask for Change, Meridith sits down with international bestselling author and kindness researcher Michael Neece to challenge the assumption that soft skills are secondary skills. Michael makes a compelling, data-backed case that kindness is not niceness - it's the foundation of psychological safety, the driver of team performance, and a measurable bottom-line differentiator.

They unpack Google's Project Aristotle research on high-performing teams, dig into the real cost of unkind workplace cultures (hint: your best people leave first), and discuss why ego management and focus management are essential components of genuine kindness. Meridith and Michael also address one of the hardest questions leaders face right now: how do you stay kind when uncertainty is fueling fear, anger, and unkindness all around you? The answer will challenge how you think about your daily choices as a leader. If you've been looking for a competitive edge you haven't tried yet, this episode will make you rethink everything.

Connect with Michael Neese:

Linkedin Primary

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yournextkeynotespeaker/

Linkedin Our Future is Kind

https://www.linkedin.com/company/our-future-is-kind

FB

https://www.facebook.com/meteormike/

IG

https://www.instagram.com/michaelgneece/

Youtube

www.youtube.com/@YourNextKeynoteSpeaker

With Special Guest: Ken Hartley, Certified Speaking Professional and Author of Calling the Presidents

History doesn't repeat itself - but it does offer a playbook. In this episode of Ask for Change, Meridith welcomes speaker and author Ken Hartley, whose new book Calling the Presidents goes where most business books don't: straight into the leadership crucibles of every U.S. president to extract timeless lessons on navigating uncertainty, change, and crisis.

What made Washington lay down power when no one in history had done it before? What can Harry Truman's first days in office - inheriting a world war he knew nothing about - teach today's executives about leading blind? And what separated the presidents history remembers from the ones who became trivia questions?

Ken's answer is both simple and unsparing: the leaders who endure are the ones who serve the needs of their people at the moment that matters most, own their mistakes without flinching, and embrace change instead of retreating from it. This episode is a compelling reminder that uncertainty is not a new problem - and that the strategies to turn it into advantage are already written. Meridith and Ken close with a challenge every leader needs to hear: everything you've ever wanted as a leader is waiting on the other side of the fear and uncertainty you've been avoiding.

Ken Hartley:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-hartley/

https://www.facebook.com/kenhartley777

https://www.youtube.com/@kenhartleyspeaks

www.kenhartley.com

With Special Guest: Justin Jones-Fosu, Speaker, Author, and Founder of the Work Meaningful Foundation

Most leaders are chasing meaningful work. Justin Jones-Fosu argues they've got it backwards - meaningful work isn't something you find, it's something you create. In this deeply personal and strategically powerful episode of Ask for Change, Meridith sits down with speaker, author, and accidental foundation-starter Justin Jones-Fosu to explore what it actually takes to thrive - not just survive - in a world of relentless uncertainty and change. Justin's journey is anything but linear: from nearly getting fired while working in HR, to forgiving an absent father, to building schools in Ghana, he's a living case study in the power of choice, ownership, and intentional meaning-making. He introduces listeners to the research-backed framework of Job Crafting and his own "Choose, Commit, Cultivate" model - practical tools senior leaders can use to stop letting uncertainty happen to them and start creating outcomes with intention. This episode hits differently for leaders who feel the weight of what's happening in the world right now and are searching for a way to move forward with clarity and purpose. If you're tired of chasing and ready to start creating, this conversation is your next step.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/iworkmeaningful/ (Justin Jones-Fosu)

With Special Guest: Elke Rubach

Episode Description Uncertainty has a way of paralyzing financial decisions, and doing nothing is often the most expensive choice. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell is joined by wealth strategist Elke Rubach to discuss how individuals and families can regain control of their financial future, even in volatile times.

Elke shares why clarity, ownership, and planning matter more than ever, and why wealth management is about far more than investments. From cash flow and risk protection to legacy planning and financial literacy, this conversation breaks down how to move from fear to confidence.

If uncertainty around money is keeping you awake at night, this episode delivers a grounded and empowering roadmap forward.

https://www.elkerubach.com/

With Special Guest: Dr. Mary Kelly

Technology is advancing faster than most organizations are prepared for, and it is creating a dangerous and often invisible risk. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell sits down with economist and leadership expert Dr. Mary Kelly to uncover the growing information and knowledge gap inside today's workforce.

As companies rush to cut costs and adopt AI, they are unintentionally losing critical experience, institutional knowledge, and leadership continuity. Dr. Kelly explains why this is not a recession problem but a succession problem, and why short-term thinking is putting long-term sustainability at risk.

This conversation delivers practical insight on how leaders can protect their organizations, retain top talent, and intentionally close the knowledge gap before it becomes a competitive liability.

https://productiveleaders.com/

Special Guest: Anna Liotta

Episode Description Stress is no longer occasional. It is constant. And if leaders are honest, many are running on empty while trying to inspire confidence in everyone else. In this powerful episode, Meridith Elliott Powell sits down with Hall of Fame speaker and generational expert Anna Liotta to unpack what is really happening inside our bodies when uncertainty accelerates.

Anna introduces the concept of the vagus nerve and explains why nervous system regulation may be the most overlooked leadership skill in today's marketplace. When change is moving at record speed, when expectations are rising across generations, and when leaders feel pressure from every direction, the ability to calm your internal response becomes a strategic advantage.

This conversation is practical and eye-opening. From micro resets you can use in the middle of a meeting to understanding the difference between being triggered and living in a triggered state, Anna provides tools that immediately reduce reactivity and increase clarity.

If you are feeling tired, wired, burned out, or simply stretched too thin, this episode will remind you that leadership begins with regulating yourself. When you create calm, you create capacity. And when you build capacity, you build competitive advantage.

https://annaliotta.com/

With Special Guest: Colleen Stanley

Episode Description In a marketplace defined by disruption and disengagement, mentorship is no longer optional. It is a strategic advantage. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell welcomes emotional intelligence expert and bestselling author Colleen Stanley to explore why mentorship is one of the most underutilized leadership tools today.

Together, they challenge the outdated belief that mentorship must be formal, time-consuming, or hierarchical. Instead, Colleen reframes mentorship as something that can happen in moments, conversations, and daily interactions.

This episode shows leaders how emotionally intelligent mentorship builds trust, closes skill gaps, strengthens culture, and drives performance, even in the middle of uncertainty.

https://www.salesleadershipdevelopment.com/

With Special Guest: Jake Stahl

Episode Description Influence is not about persuasion tactics. It is about understanding how people actually make decisions. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell is joined by sales neurostrategist Jake Stahl to unpack the psychology behind influence, communication, and behavior change.

Jake explains why most people speak to the wrong version of their audience and how leaders and sales professionals can learn to communicate at the brain level. From nonverbal signals to reframing conversations, this episode offers a deeper look at what it really means to own the room.

If you want to be heard, trusted, and remembered in today's crowded marketplace, this conversation delivers the tools to do exactly that.

https://thejakestahl.com/

With Special Guest: Amy Lessinger

Staying stuck is a decision, even when it does not feel like one. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell sits down with former RE/MAX President Amy Lessinger to discuss what it truly takes to create transformation in your career, leadership, and life.

Amy introduces the concept of the irreversible step, the moment where you stop hedging, stop waiting for certainty, and fully commit to what comes next. Through powerful stories and practical insight, she explains why ownership, truth, and decisive action are the foundation of meaningful change.

This episode is a must-listen for leaders who know something needs to change and are ready to stop circling the decision.

https://www.amylessinger.com/

With Special Guest: Dr. Cindy McGovern

Too many leaders know what they want to say but never give themselves permission to say it. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell is joined by Dr. Cindy McGovern, known as the First Lady of Sales, to explore why so many capable, accomplished professionals struggle to trust their own voice.

Dr. McGovern introduces the idea of internal permission and explains how unseen influences, past conditioning, and internal narratives quietly hold people back. From boardrooms to everyday conversations, this lack of permission creates hesitation, regret, and stalled progress.

This conversation is both practical and deeply human. It offers a clear path for quieting the noise, reclaiming intuition, and taking confident steps forward, even when certainty is nowhere to be found.

If you are ready to stop second-guessing yourself and start leading, selling, and living with clarity, this episode will challenge you to trust what you already know.

https://drcindy.com/

With Special Guest: Brynne Tillman

LinkedIn is no longer optional, but most professionals are still using it the wrong way. In this episode, Meridith Elliott Powell welcomes LinkedIn strategist Brynne Tillman to break down how to build real relationships, credibility, and opportunity on the platform without gimmicks or automation.

Brynne explains why connect and pitch is killing trust, how to leverage your existing network more effectively, and how to turn LinkedIn into a daily business development tool rather than a distraction.

This episode gives leaders and sales professionals a clear, practical approach to standing out and creating value in a crowded digital marketplace.

https://brynnetillman.com/

Welcome to another episode of Thrive, the show that helps you turn today’s uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. This week, host Meredith Elliott Powell sits down with Verl Workman, a serial entrepreneur, renowned real estate coach, and the author of Raving Referrals. Verl brings his incredible personal story of rising from poverty to industry leadership, sharing how resilience, relationships, and a “STUPID goals” mentality transformed his trajectory. Together, they dive deep into the power of building authentic connections, why referrals are the lifeblood of any thriving business, and actionable steps you can take—no matter your industry—to unlock the doors to growth when times feel most uncertain. Get ready to discover why relationships are your greatest currency, how to set game-changing goals, and the one habit you need to build right now to propel yourself through ambiguity and into success.

https://workmansuccess.com/

https://ravingreferrals.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/verlworkman/

Welcome to another episode of Thrive, the podcast that helps you turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. I’m your host, Meredith Elliott Powell, and today we’re diving into the rewarding and sometimes misunderstood world of franchising. Whether you’re exploring business ownership, looking to scale your operations, or just curious about what it takes to make it in the franchise world, you’re in the right place.

Joining me is Mark Siebert, founder of the iFranchise Group and a leading expert in franchising. Mark shares insider insights on why franchising can be a powerful growth strategy, what makes a business ready to franchise, and the key differences between successful franchisors and franchisees. He covers everything from planning for uncertainty to averting common pitfalls, so you can move forward with confidence in any business landscape.

And there’s a special bonus for Thrive listeners: Mark is offering a FREE chapter from his book, “How to Franchise Your Business.” Even better, if you mention this podcast on his website, you could receive a complimentary copy of the entire book to help you on your franchise journey. Just head over to ifranchisegroup.com and drop in the name “Powell” to unlock these resources.

This episode is packed with practical advice, fresh perspectives, and valuable tools for anyone ready to level up in business—so plug in and get ready to thrive!

https://www.ifranchisegroup.com/

Welcome to Thrive, the podcast where we turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. In this episode, host Meridith Elliott Powell sits down with Scott Leese, founder of Leese Consulting, whose incredible story of overcoming severe illness and launching a successful sales career is both inspiring and full of actionable lessons.

Scott opens up about facing life-threatening health challenges in his 20s and how that experience shaped his relentless drive and perspective on life and business. Meriedith and Scott explore how adversity can fuel success, the importance of urgency, and practical strategies for building resilience, especially in today’s unpredictable world.

From surviving “the hardest thing” to becoming a top sales leader and entrepreneur, Scott shares his journey and provides invaluable advice on adapting to change, building a personal brand, and why entrepreneurial thinking matters more than ever. Tune in for wise, motivating insights to help you set the stage for your own success—no matter what life throws your way.

https://scottleeseconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottleese/

Welcome to Thrive! I’m your host, Meredith Elliott Powell, and today we’re taking on a topic that every leader faces but most want to avoid: workplace conflict. I’m thrilled to welcome my guests, Karin Hurt and David Dye, the dynamic duo behind Let’s Grow Leaders and the authors of "Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict."

Karin and David are here to share research-backed insights on why workplace conflict is on the rise, what’s really driving it, and—most importantly—how to handle it with confidence. We’ll talk about their four dimensions for productive collaboration, practical habits for teams, and some of the best phrases you can use to turn conflict into a true advantage.

If you’re looking for real-world solutions to take the stress out of difficult conversations and build a stronger, more innovative team, this episode is for you. Let’s get started!

https://letsgrowleaders.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karin-hurt/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmdye/

Welcome to this episode of Thrive, the podcast where we dive into proven strategies to help you turn uncertainty into your biggest competitive advantage. I’m your host, Meredith Elliott Powell, and today we’re exploring one of the most essential—and often misunderstood—aspects of professional success: networking. But not just any networking. Our guest, Michael Forman, a true expert in building connections, introduces us to the concept of strategic networking.

Together, we’ll unpack why cultivating relationships matters now more than ever, how true connection is much more than just trading business cards or attending Zoom calls, and why even the most introverted among us can master the art of networking with just a little practice—and the right mindset. You’ll hear real-world advice on where to start, how to overcome the fear of rejection, and why Michael believes following up is just as important as making the initial connection.

Whether you’re new to networking, looking to sharpen your skills, or hoping to help your team unlock the power of relationships, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you grow, succeed, and profit. So, get ready to take notes—your next big opportunity may be just one strategic conversation away!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelforman/

https://www.michaelaforman.com/

Hey there, and welcome to another episode of Thrive! Today, we're chatting with Carson Heady, the ultimate Salesman on Fire, who's been shaking things up at big names like Microsoft, AT&T, and Verizon. Join host Meredith Elliott Powell as she dives into Carson's unique strategies that help you turn all this market craziness into a winning play. You'll get the scoop on how personal branding can really set you apart and hear some down-to-earth advice straight from Carson's books, "A Salesman on Fire" and "The Show Must Go On." Whether you're looking to step up your sales game or need a fresh perspective, this episode's packed with everything you need to get inspired and ready to take action. Tune in and let’s get thriving!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsonvheady/

https://carsonvheady.wordpress.com/

Hey there, welcome to another episode of Thrive! Today, Meredith Elliott Powell chats with the amazing Mike Robbins about keeping your head in the game when everything around you feels like a rollercoaster. Mike's got a cool story—from almost making it big in baseball, an injury changed his path, leading him to become a top speaker and coach in leadership. They dig into why connecting with people on a real level and having the right mindset is a game-changer for team success. Plus, they share how to turn all this uncertainty into your secret weapon. If you’re looking to make sense of the chaos and find your groove in today’s crazy world, you won’t want to miss this episode!

https://mike-robbins.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/

Welcome to Thrive, where we turn uncertainty into your competitive edge. I'm your host, Meredith Elliott Powell, and today we're uncovering the essence of human connection with personality strategist Angel Tucker. In an AI-dominated world, Angel emphasizes the importance of understanding and communicating effectively with others. From her start with motivational tapes at Amway to becoming an expert with the DISC model, Angel’s insights highlight how genuine communication can transform relationships and organizational success. Join us as we explore building trust, improving negotiation skills, and fostering a culture of effective dialogue. Get ready to thrive by mastering the art of human connection.

https://usingdisc.com/

https://usingdisc.com/shop/

In this episode of Thrive, host Meredith Elliott Powell engages with visionary entrepreneur Alex Raymond to explore the transformative world of conscious leadership. Alex shares his journey from a traditional corporate career to becoming an entrepreneur, revealing strategies to tackle the internal challenges of running a business. He emphasizes the importance of self-commitment, intentionality, and the shift from external validation to inner growth. Discover how these elements can turn uncertainty into a competitive advantage. Plus, get a sneak peek into the Conscious Entrepreneur Summit happening this May in Boulder, Colorado. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode offers a wealth of insights to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit and thrive from within.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/afraymond/

https://consciousentrepreneur.us/

In this episode of Thrive, Meredith Elliott Powell chats with Dr. Amy Climer, a creativity and innovation whiz, about how to get your teams buzzing with fresh ideas. Amy's not just talking the talk; she's got a PhD in the art of being creative and her new book, "Deliberate Creative: How to Lead for Innovative Results," is packed with tips and tricks. They dive into why being deliberate about creativity is key, how to shake off those misconceptions about innovation, and how you can build a team that's ready to tackle whatever changes come their way. Whether you're a team leader or just looking to tap into your own creative juices, this episode is your go-to guide for turning uncertainty into a playground for new opportunities. So, if you're ready to make creativity a habit and not just a happy accident, this one's for you!

https://climerconsulting.com/book/

https://climerconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyclimer/

Hey everyone, welcome back to another episode of Thrive! This week, Meredith Elliott Powell is bringing on a special guest, media expert Mickey Kennedy, to chat about how to get your business noticed in today’s jam-packed market.

Mickey’s got a unique and fascinating story—he started in creative writing and became a top PR pro. In this episode, he’ll share the secrets behind crafting a standout press release and explain why credibility can seriously boost your business.

He’s also tackling some common myths about media coverage, showing why even the little guys can make waves without spending a fortune. Plus, Mickey’s got some super practical tips on creating an effective PR campaign on a budget.

Don't miss this episode if you're ready to learn some awesome strategies to help your business shine. Meredith and Mickey are about to drop some serious knowledge! Let’s dive in!

https://www.ereleases.com/plan/

https://www.ereleases.com/

Welcome back to "Thrive!" In this episode, host Meredith Elliott Powell is joined by leadership expert Elizabeth Lotardo, author of the insightful new book "Leading Yourself."

Elizabeth has been at the forefront of online education long before it became mainstream, and she’s dedicated to improving everyone's work experience. In their conversation, Meredith and Elizabeth dive into the importance of taking charge of one’s career to find joy and meaning in the workplace.

They explore the common mistake of waiting for others to lead and how true power lies in leading oneself. Elizabeth also shares practical tips for managing difficult bosses, identifying growth opportunities, and navigating the complexities of today’s fast-paced job market.

Packed with actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for leaders aiming to create a positive work environment and for individuals looking to own their career paths. Tune in and discover how to thrive amid uncertainty.

https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethlotardo/

Hey there, welcome to another episode of "Thrive," where we help you turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage! I'm Meredith Elliott Powell, and today, I'm super pumped to be chatting with my friend and co-author, Dr. Mary Kelly. Mary’s background is seriously impressive—she’s written over 12 books, graduated from the Naval Academy, spent 25 years in the military, and has a doctorate in economics. Yeah, she's a powerhouse.

Today, we're diving into our upcoming book, "You Next: The Step by Step Guide to Putting Yourself in Charge of Your Career," which is set to release in 2025. We’re going to talk about everything from the leadership gaps in today’s business world, to the importance of succession planning, and practical tips on how you can take control of your career journey. This is for anyone—whether you're leading a team, climbing the corporate ladder, or just stepping into the job market post-college.

So sit back, relax, and join us as we break down how to not just survive, but thrive in these uncertain times. Let's dive in!

https://younextnow.com/

https://productiveleaders.com/

Mary@ProductiveLeaders.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarykelly/

Hey there, welcome to "Thrive," the podcast where we share incredible stories of transformation. Today's episode, will leave you amazed.

Meridith's guest, Luke Lunkenheimer, turned his life around in a way that's nothing short of inspiring. After losing a football scholarship due to injury, battling a decade-long opiate addiction, and even serving prison time for a bank robbery, Luke didn't just bounce back—he soared. Now, he's a top-notch sales trainer with his program "Paid 2 Persuade," where he teaches the three Cs: Content, Confidence, and Cadence.

We'll dive into how Luke's three Cs framework offers fresh perspectives on authentic selling and building confidence. He’ll share how mindset and courage helped him turn rock-bottom moments into a launching pad for success. Whether you're in sales or just need a dose of inspiration, this episode is packed with insights on turning adversity into advantage.

So, tune in and get ready for a story of redemption and lessons that can elevate both your personal and professional life!

https://www.youtube.com/@Paid2Persuade

linkedin.com/in/lukelunk

https://www.tiktok.com/@lukelunk

https://www.instagram.com/lukelunk

https://x.com/lukelunk

https://www.facebook.com/luke.lunkenheimer

https://paid2persuade.com/

Welcome to another episode of Thrive! Today, we're hanging out with Christian Jack, also known as the Sales Dojo. Hosted by the always insightful Meredith Elliott Powell, we'll be exploring some super cool stuff about how neuroscience and influence can make you a sales superstar.

Christian has a pretty unique story—he started out as a music teacher and found his way into sales during the crazy times of Covid. He was looking for stability and ended up finding his calling. In this chat, they get into why building genuine connections is more important than ever, especially in this digital age. They also talk about what trends to watch out for in sales and how to master the art of influence.

Whether you're trying to up your sales game or just want to connect better with people, this episode is full of nuggets you won't want to miss. So, kick back, relax, and let's learn how to thrive in this ever-changing world!

www.thesalesdojo.co/thrive

https://www.facebook.com/christian.jack.58152

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-jack-989306295/

Welcome to another episode of Thrive, the podcast where we dive into strategies to turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. I'm your host, Meredith Elliott Powell, and today we have an exciting discussion lined up for you. Our guest is Kay Miller, a sales enthusiast and expert on personal branding. Kay brings a wealth of experience from her diverse background in sales and marketing, having worked in male-dominated industries and even earning the nickname "Muffler Mama." Her new book, "Uncopyable You," takes a deep dive into the concept of creating a unique personal brand—an essential tool for standing out in today’s homogenized marketplace. Join us as Kay shares her journey, the evolution of personal branding, and practical tips for developing a brand that gets people to know, like, trust, and remember you. If you're looking to thrive in the uncertainty of today's world, this episode is for you! Let's get started.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/millerkay/

https://www.beuncopyable.com/

https://www.beuncopyable.com/thrive

https://www.beuncopyable.com/store

In this episode, Meridith sits down with Hilary Feder, founder of the Breakfast Leaders Forum, to explore strategies for becoming mentally fit, powerfully resilient, and competitively strong.

Hilary shares her journey of building a community-focused forum designed to foster meaningful connections and professional growth, while also addressing the critical need for human connection in our high-tech world.

Together, they discuss the importance of preparing your team for rapid change, keeping them motivated, and why people-centric practices are crucial for thriving organizations. Plus, get an insider look at what to expect from their upcoming event on October 31st, where Meridith will present practical tools to help leaders and employees thrive in an ever-changing environment. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and strategies to help your team not just cope with change, but drive it. Tune in now!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillaryfeder/

https://breakfastleaders.regfox.com/thrive-mentally-fit-powerfully-resilient-competitively-strong#

Hey everyone, welcome to Thrive Turning Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage today, we’re diving into the all-important topic of inclusion with our fantastic guest, Denise Hamilton. Denise is a powerhouse Inclusion Strategist with over 25 years of executive leadership experience. She's also an author, speaker, and consultant, making her the perfect person to lead us through this vital conversation.

In this episode, we dive into what it really means to create inclusive workplaces. From the pros and cons of homogeneous groups to the impact of social media and the challenges leaders face, Denise shares insightful, practical advice beyond just discussing inclusion. We’ll cover breaking down barriers, making inclusion a core value, and why businesses need to reflect their diverse customer bases. If you’re ready for real talk and actionable steps to make your workplace more inclusive and dynamic, you’re in the right place. So grab your headphones, and let’s get started!

https://denisehamilton.co/

https://denisehamilton.co/indivisible-book/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamiltondenise/

Hey there, welcome back to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage! Today, we’ve got something truly inspiring for you. Meridith sits down with the incredible Johnny Wimbrey, and they dive into how you can build a millionaire mindset and turn life's curveballs into your biggest opportunities. Johnny's story is nothing short of amazing—from growing up in a women's shelter to now being a multi-millionaire and bestselling author. He gets real about the moment that changed his life forever, the mindset shifts that made all the difference, and how he now helps others do the same. Whether you're running a business, leading a team, or just trying to get through some tough times, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tips that can help you thrive. Don't miss out—hit play, and let's get inspired together!

https://www.johnnywimbrey.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnywimbrey/

https://www.facebook.com/JohnnyWimbrey

https://www.instagram.com/Wimbrey

https://x.com/Wimbrey

https://www.youtube.com/JohnnyWimbrey

Hey everyone, welcome to another episode of "THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage!" Join host Meridith Elliott Powell, with her awesome co-host Andre Norman. Today, we're unpacking Andre’s incredible story of turning some seriously tough times into major wins. Andre’s journey is mind-blowing—from a rough childhood and hanging out with the wrong crowd, to landing a 100-year prison sentence. But he didn't let that define him. With grit, determination, and a lot of help from mentors, Andre turned his life around and even went to Harvard! We're talking about overcoming imposter syndrome, taking that scary first step toward change, and using the support around you to tackle life’s uncertainties. Plus, Andre’s got some killer advice on how prison life taught him skills he now uses to coach CEOs and entrepreneurs. So, join us as we dive into how Andre went from solitary confinement to becoming an influential speaker and mentor, and learn how you can also flip life's challenges into golden opportunities. Don’t miss this inspiring chat! Let’s get into it!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-norman/

https://andrenorman.com/

https://www.facebook.com/andre.boston.71

https://www.instagram.com/andrenorman/

https://www.tiktok.com/@andrenormanshow

Welcome back to "THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage"! Today's episode is going to be a game-changer. Our awesome host, Meridith Elliott Powell, is chatting with motivational speaker and sales expert, Victor Antonio. If you're into sales, personal growth, or just leveling up in life, you definitely don't want to miss this. Victor really opens up about everything from how he tackles tasks he’s not great at—like accounting—by delegating them, to the power of being real with yourself about what you’re good and not-so-good at. We’re talking about learned optimism, the ABC model in sales, and some deep dives into mindset shifts that can make a big difference. He shares some cool personal stories, like dealing with a leaky pipe and smashing through those invisible cages we all put around ourselves. Plus, there's a great discussion on why it's so important to focus on your strengths and how resilience can turn life's hard knocks into stepping stones to success. One thing that really stands out is his take on risk-taking, aiming for success (not perfection), and why we need to take control of our own lives. Meridith and Victor also get into how pain can be a motivator and why it’s crucial to take action instead of waiting for someone else to save you. So grab your headphones and get ready for some seriously motivating insights and practical advice. Let’s dive in with Victor Antonio on THRIVE!

Welcome to another episode of "THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage," with host, Meridith Elliott Powell. Today, Meridith is joined by the remarkable Tommy Mello, an entrepreneur, author, and podcast host, to share his strategies for getting unstuck and achieving excellence. In this episode, Tommy highlights the transformative role of great coaching, drawing parallels between sports and business. He discusses his journey from early financial struggles to building a thriving business, emphasizing the value of seeking advice from successful individuals and the impact of a strong work ethic fostered from childhood. Tommy also reflects on shifting his focus from profit to his team's well-being, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, and shares how wealth is more about making a positive impact than just financial success. Tune in as he talks about his daily routines, the importance of self-discipline, and how balancing personal growth with professional achievements is key to true fulfillment. Stay tuned for insights on Tommy's upcoming " Freedom " event in San Diego, his book "Elevate," and ways to elevate your journey. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to turn uncertainty into their competitive advantage. Let's dive in!

https://homeserviceexpert.com/

https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/freedom-event-2024

Welcome back to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage! Today, Meridith's guest is powerhouse Ian Altman. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the rapidly changing landscape of sales, this episode is for you. Ian shares invaluable insights on modernizing your sales strategy to stay competitive in today's uncertain marketplace. From being fired from his first sales job to building a billion-dollar company, Ian reveals the key shifts that can transform your sales approach. They'll also discuss the pitfalls of over-reliance on automation, the importance of being truly relevant to your clients, and how focusing on solving problems can skyrocket your success. Tune in for actionable strategies and expert advice that will help you thrive and turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. Don't miss it!

https://ianaltman.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianaltman/overlay/contact-info/

https://twitter.com/IanAltman

Welcome to another episode of Thrive: Turning Uncertainty into Competitive Advantage. Today, Meridith Elliott Powell tackles a critical topic for every business navigating today's challenging landscape: market differentiation. As markets shift, inflation rises, and competitors crowd the field, standing out is more crucial than ever. To dive deep into this, we have a special guest, Mark Levy, a renowned differentiation expert who's advised top-tier clients like Simon Sinek and Marshall Goldsmith.

In this episode, Mark shares his insights on what it means to truly stand out in a competitive marketplace. We'll explore the concept of differentiation, why predictable strategies often fail, and how companies like Red Bull and Apple break the mold to achieve extraordinary success. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or thought leader, you'll gain invaluable strategies to ensure your brand becomes the focal point of conversation, even in the most uncertain times.

Tune in as we discuss how to create your own "foot-tall sandwich," why logic often robs the world of magic, and how to craft stories so compelling that they drive both your marketing and product. Get ready to jolt your market and turn uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage. Stay tuned, and let's thrive!

https://www.levyinnovation.com/

mark@levyinnovation.com

Welcome to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage! Today, we have an inspiring story of resilience, determination, and the power to create your own luck. Joining us is Jamie MoCrazy a former professional slopestyle skier who made history as the first woman to double flip at the X Games. Jamie's life took a dramatic turn following a devastating accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury and temporary paralysis. Tune in as she shares her remarkable journey of recovery, the critical role her family played, and the creation of the MoCrazy Method—a transformative approach to overcoming brain injuries. Together with her mother and sister, Jamie has built a nonprofit dedicated to helping others navigate the complex path to recovery. Whether you're facing personal challenges or seeking strategies to turn uncertainty into opportunity, Jamie's story will leave you inspired and equipped with actionable insights. Don't miss it!

https://www.mocrazystrong.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8F%94-jamie-mocrazy-07b58131/

Welcome back to another episode of THRIVE! Today, we've got an incredible conversation lined up as Meridith Elliott Powell teams up with leadership expert Andrew Bryant to unravel the fascinating world of self-leadership. Join us as we delve into Andrew's diverse cultural experiences, providing a unique lens through which he shares the art of intentionally influencing your mindset, emotions, and actions to achieve personal and professional success. Together, they explore the profound impact of self-leadership on organizational culture, while uncovering the challenges and rewards of leading through uncertain times.

From practical insights to inspiring anecdotes, this episode is chock-full of wisdom for individuals and organizations navigating today's ever-changing landscape. Get ready for an enlightening discussion on how to carve your path to success by fostering a self-leadership culture and leveraging uncertainty into a competitive advantage. Stay tuned for a captivating conversation that's sure to redefine the way you approach leadership and uncertainty!

Here's where to find all the information about Andrew and his latest book.

https://www.selfleadership.com/

Hey there! In this episode of THRIVE, we've got the one and only Gretchen Gordon, the sales guru and author of "The Happy Sales Manager," chatting with our host, Meridith Elliott Powell. They're diving deep into the world of sales management, unpacking the challenges, mindset shifts, and killer strategies you need to thrive in today's crazy marketplace. Gretchen drops some serious truth bombs about the pivotal role of sales managers in driving team success – from inspiring and coaching to holding folks accountable. Plus, she's dishing out some great advice about being open to change and shaking off those old, unhelpful habits and thoughts.

If you're a sales pro, leader, or business owner trying to navigate the ever-evolving business world, this episode is a goldmine of practical tips and insights. So grab your favorite podcast app and buckle up for a game-changing conversation!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchengordonbraveheart/

https://braveheartsales.com/thehappysalesmanager

https://www.gretchengordon.com/

Welcome to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. In this episode, host Meridith Elliott Powell engages in a captivating conversation with Julie Kennedy Oehlert, who is the chief experience and brand officer for ECU Health. Throughout the episode, Julie shares valuable insights about disrupting the healthcare industry and infusing a culture of joy and care to drive impactful results. Julie's approach to disruption focuses on unsiloing the work, empathetic listening, and embracing change with a sense of purpose and hope. Their discussion delves into the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, touching on topics like patient access, proactive care, and the influence of millennials and younger generations in driving change. Julie's wealth of experience and her innovative mindset make this episode a must-listen for leaders looking to bring positive disruption to their industries. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and inspiring perspectives on embracing change and innovation.

Julei Kennedy Oehlert serves as the innovative Chief Experience and Brand Officer at ECU Health, where she spearheads the disruption of traditional healthcare paradigms, focusing fervently on human experience. Her groundbreaking role encapsulates the management of patient satisfaction, employee engagement, and the wellness of the health system's workforce, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic—which has brought workforce wellbeing to the forefront of her priorities. With a rich background in design thinking, Oehlert infuses creativity and strategic vision into the healthcare realm. She oversees and facilitates design labs, applying her expertise to foster an environment that embraces progressive leadership and executive thinking. Her work at ECU Health is central to cultivating an environment where the human experience is not merely an afterthought but the core around which healthcare services revolve.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-kennedyoehlert-b2819830/

https://www.ecuhealth.org/ecu-health-thought-leaders/julie-kennedy-oehlert/

https://www.amazon.com/System-Innovation-Holistic-Approach-Disrupting/dp/179358477X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QENRVJ35H8NX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pGURAkMGCPTZcMRCcTnr9A._ApXNP1HyX5cbS1DHflLnwU_WkliYBLGdw7dkUzqJYg&dib_tag=se&keywords=julie+Kennedy+Oehlert&qid=1710360214&s=books&sprefix=julie+kennedy+oehlert%2Cstripbooks%2C77&sr=1-1

Welcome to the THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage podcast, where Meridith Elliott Powell and Dr. Shirley Davis engage in a dynamic conversation about finding your path to profitability, growth, and success. In this episode, they discuss the impact of technology on leadership and sales, the importance of investing in employee training and mental health support, and the valuable opportunities provided by LinkedIn learning. Tune in as they share insights, personal experiences, and advice on leveraging online learning to stay ahead in today's evolving business landscape. So grab your headphones and get ready to thrive!

Dr. Shirley Davis is a distinguished professional with a dynamic career spanning over three decades, beginning in the banking and financial industry. With 15 years of experience, she rose through the ranks, specializing in advising entrepreneurs on wealth generation. Additionally, Dr. Davis has a rich 30-year history in human resources, where she's touched every facet from recruiting to diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a trailblazer for professional women and entrepreneurs, she's renowned for her ability to navigate and add value during times of disruption, all while championing the immutable significance of talent management and HR in the evolving corporate world.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drshirleydavis/

https://drshirleydavis.com/

https://sds.drshirleydavis.com/

Hey there, in this episode of "THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage," Meridith Elliott Powell chats with Irvine Nugent, partner of Copia Leadership, about the game-changing topic of emotional intelligence in leadership. They dig into the nitty-gritty of self-awareness, understanding emotions, and building connections in the workplace.

Nugent opens up about his personal background, growing up in Northern Ireland during turbulent times, and how it shaped his views on creating more human-centric spaces in organizations. The discussion dives into the significance of emotional intelligence in today's ever-changing business landscape and the role of genuine connection in fostering trust and understanding.

They geek out about the power of curiosity, listening, and empathy in forging meaningful relationships. They also explore how societal changes have impacted our ability to connect with others and why sharing our personal stories is key to forming authentic bonds. Nugent drops some nuggets of wisdom on navigating uncertainty, stressing the importance of focusing on what's in our control and turning it into a competitive advantage. So, if you're ready to gain some epic insights on emotional intelligence, leadership, and the magic of connection, this episode is a must-listen!

Irvine also tells Meridith about his book Leadership Lessons From The Pub: Harnessing The Power of Emotional Intelligence to Build a Fully Engaged Workplace.

https://copialeadership.com/

linkedin.com/in/irvinenugent

irvine@copialeadership.com

irvinenugent.com/free-resources

Hey there, Thrive Tribe! Welcome back to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. I'm your host, Meridith Elliott Powell, and today we have an amazing show lined up for you. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible sales expert and mindset guru, Joe Dalton, for a truly eye-opening conversation. From the get-go, Joe had us hooked with his unique perspective on "getting it wrong to get it right." We dived deep into the nuances of mindset, the evolution of sales, and the real meaning behind finding your purpose and values. It was fascinating to hear Joe's take on how the journey of failure can often lead to extraordinary success. But that's not all! We delved into the nitty-gritty of effective communication in today's digital age and the true power of authenticity in sales. Joe dropped some wisdom bombs about the hustle and grind, and how hard work still remains a key component of success, even in the fast-paced world of technology and AI. As we navigated through the conversation, Joe and I explored the significance of human connection, the impact of anxiety on today's business leaders, and the art of finding balance amidst all the chaos. Plus, we wrapped up the show with some invaluable advice on how to thrive in an uncertain marketplace.

https://joedalton.ie/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-joe-dalton/

Welcome to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. In this episode, our guest Jeff Shore, a sales guru and expert in the real estate industry, will share his insights on how to skyrocket sales in the age of uncertainty. Join your host Meridith Elliott Powell as she delves into Jeff's journey and the psychological approach he takes to selling - by understanding how customers want to buy. Discover how Jeff's passion for studying buyer behavior led him to develop unique strategies for success. As the conversation explores the challenges of an uncertain marketplace and the shifting economy, Jeff reveals the importance of adjusting your sales style based on people's attitudes and feelings. Get ready to learn how confidence can become your competitive advantage and how to position yourself as an influence practitioner. Tune in to unravel the secrets of value perception and discover how to provide exceptional value that leaves your competitors behind. Get ready to thrive as Jeff Shore shares his expertise on turning uncertainty into your greatest competitive advantage.

https://jeffshore.com/

jeff@jeffshore.com

Hey there, podcast fans! Get ready for another exciting episode of Thrive, where we tackle all things uncertainty and turn them into your biggest competitive advantage. And today, I am beyond thrilled because we have a true expert joining us. We've got Dr. Mary Kelly, an economist, PhD, and hall of fame speaker. Together, we're going to dig deep into how you can make this economy work for you. We know that a lot of you are worried about paying the bills, job security, and the overall state of the economy. Well, fear not, because we're here to shed some light on what you should be paying attention to as business owners. With reports of an impending recession and rising inflation rates, it's no wonder there's so much uncertainty. But we're here to break it down for you and give you the inside scoop on what lies ahead. So grab your headphones and get ready to thrive in this economy, no matter what it throws your way. Welcome to the show, Mary!

https://productiveleaders.com/

mary@productiveleaders.com

Hey there, Thrive listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Thrive: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. I'm your host, Meridith Elliott Powell, and I am thrilled to have an extraordinary guest with me today. We've got none other than America's Breakthrough Coach, the incredible Brian Biro, joining us for a deep dive into his brand-new book, Lessons from the Legends. With an impressive track record spanning three wonderful careers, Brian brings a wealth of wisdom and experience to the table. From his early days as a United States swimming coach, where he learned the art of bringing out the best in people, to his corporate career as a vice president in a large transportation company and international training company, and now as an acclaimed speaker and author for over 33 years, Brian's passion for creating breakthroughs is evident in everything he does. With 16 books under his belt, including his latest masterpiece, Lessons from the Legends, Brian is no stranger to sharing his insights and helping others thrive. This book is a culmination of his lifelong admiration for two extraordinary coaches - John Wooden, the legendary college men's basketball coach, and Pat Summitt, the trailblazer in women's college basketball. Both embody the essence of humility, a key quality that Brian believes is essential for great leadership and thriving in uncertainty. In this episode, we'll explore the timeless principles and strategies these coaching legends share, from focusing on character over reputation to controlling the controllables and taking responsibility for our actions. Get ready to learn how embracing humility can unlock the doors to lifelong learning and empower you to turn uncertainty into your competitive advantage. So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and join me as I dive into a conversation with Brian Biro on Lessons from the Legends. It's going to be a game-changer, folks! Let's thrive together!

Lessons from the Legends releases November 14th, 2023.

https://www.brianbiro.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbiro/

Welcome to another episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage! In today's episode, we have a special guest, sales legend Julie Thomas, who will be discussing her upcoming book that focuses on the power of value-based selling. Join Meridith Elliott Powell and her guest Julie Thomas as they delve into the strategies and steps needed to connect with clients, build strong relationships, and grow your business. Julie shares her journey from being an accidental entrepreneur to acquiring a successful sales methodology company. They also explore how the sales landscape has shifted over the years, with buyers now accessing abundant information online. But despite this, Julie emphasizes that how you sell is just as important as what you sell. So, if you're looking to navigate the complexities of today's marketplace and make a lasting impact with your sales approach, this episode is a must-listen. Let's dive in and discover the keys to thriving in sales in this ever-changing business landscape. Tune in now to THRIVE!

https://www.valueselling.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieathomas/

Hey there, podcast fans! It's your host, Meridith Elliott Powell, back with another exciting episode of Thrive: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. Today, we have a very special guest joining us, the founder of The Exit Factor, Jessica Fialkovich. Get ready to dive deep into the world of scaling and growth as we discuss how to build a business that allows you to live life on your own terms.

But before we jump into the conversation, let me give you a sneak peek into Jessica's incredible journey. Raised in a family that didn't believe in owning a business, Jessica defied the odds and followed her passion for entrepreneurship. After facing the challenges of the 2008 recession, she realized that taking control of her own future was the key to protecting it. Alongside her husband, Jessica founded a luxury wine retailer, successfully scaling the business over three years. However, through this experience, she learned some valuable lessons about leaving money on the table and not protecting the brand's legacy during the transition.

Taking these lessons to heart, Jessica entered the world of mergers and acquisitions, assisting small to mid-sized business owners in preparing for and selling their companies.

During our conversation, we explore the importance of always being prepared to sell your business, even if it's not your immediate plan. Burnout and personal circumstances can often lead to unexpected decisions, and being in a position to sell can offer peace of mind and financial security. Jessica shares her insights on the role of emotional intelligence and the need to constantly assess your business's sellability in order to optimize its value.

But that's not all! We also dive into the founding of Jessica's latest venture, The Exit Factor. This innovative company provides a systematic process for positioning businesses to be sold at any time for maximum value. Through comprehensive evaluations, financial optimization, documenting processes, and implementing growth plans, Jessica and her team empower entrepreneurs to not only prepare their businesses for sale but transform them into thriving enterprises.

So, if you're ready to learn the secrets of scaling, preparing for exit, and navigating the ever-changing business landscape, you won't want to miss this episode of Thrive: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage. Tune in and get ready to thrive!

https://exitfactor.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicafialkovich/

https://www.instagram.com/jessicafialkovich/?hl=en

Welcome to a brand new episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage!

In this episode, we'll be diving deep into why speed is crucial for businesses in today's rapidly changing landscape. Jay Baer has always been at the forefront of innovation, constantly staying one step ahead and providing cutting-edge strategies for growth and improving customer experiences.

We'll learn about Jay's journey, from politics to digital marketing to founding his own companies, and how his passion for customer experience developed. Jay will enlighten us on his extensive research and how he conducted comprehensive studies to validate his findings.

He discovered that in our time-conscious society, customers now value speed as much as they value price. We'll explore the significance of speed and responsiveness in business and why it's essential to prioritize your customers' time. Don't miss out on Jay's insights!

And speaking of time, Jay has pulled off something remarkable with his latest book, "The Time to Win." He understands that people don't always have hours to spare, so he condensed his wisdom into a concise read that can be finished in under an hour. It's a testament to his commitment to respecting his readers' time and aligning his practices with his message.

"The Rise of Information: We tolerate disrespect of our time way less than we used to."— Jay Baer

Join us in this enlightening conversation with Jay Baer as we uncover the power of speed as a competitive advantage. Get ready to thrive in this fast-paced world! Let's dive in!

https://www.jaybaer.com/

https://www.jaybaer.com/books

Welcome back to "Thrive: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage," the podcast where we explore strategies and steps to help you thrive in the face of uncertainty and turn challenges into opportunities.

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Sheryl Green, a mental health speaker and author, joining us to discuss resilience and the importance of setting healthy boundaries.

Sheryl shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her new book, "You Had Me at No: How Setting Healthy Boundaries Helps to Banish Burnout, Repair Relationships, and Save Your Sanity."

We dive into the reasons why many of us struggle with boundaries, the impact it has on our wellbeing, and how to recognize the need for change. So grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to navigate setbacks, overcome challenges, and bounce back stronger than ever. Let's dive into this insightful conversation with Sheryl Green.

https://www.sherylgreenspeaks.com/

https://www.livingunleashednow.com/

On this episode of THRIVE: Turning Uncertainty To Competitive Advantage, host(s) and guest Andrew Sykes discuss the power of trust in the sales process. Andrew Sykes gives advice on treating promises to oneself as seriously as promises to others, and explains how closing a deal is the natural outcome of a well-run sales process. They also discuss the issues with the current perception of salespeople, and how technology has eroded trust rather than building it. The conversation includes how to design a first impression that conveys a commitment to serving the customer over their own needs, and the importance of helping customers make smart decisions that lead to progress in their business, life, or career. Andrew Sykes also touches on the challenges salespeople face from company actions that erode trust, and how apologizing can be counterproductive. Finally, they highlight the importance of listening and building trust in any situation, and how it can lead to being more successful in sales and life. Tune in to this episode to learn more!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsykes1/

https://www.andrewsykes.com/

https://habitsatwork.com/

Today Meridith is talking with Joey Havens, CPA and partner at HORNE Accounting Firm. Meridith and Joey discuss his new book Leading With Significance, which will be available for pre-order on Amazon on May 4th.

Joey tells Meridith about his philosophy of building a business with a people-first culture and why this is so important in today's marketplace.

They talk about the work culture and why people are participating in the "Great Resignation," while company leaders rate their company culture as high and where the disconnect comes from.

They also discuss the importance of leading with values and Joey's top two tips for leaders.

https://joeyhavens.com/

https://horne.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeyhavens/

https://twitter.com/JoeyHavensCPA

Joey@joeyhavens.com

joey.havens@horne.com

Today Meridith talks with Lauren Bailey about thriving in a virtual sales world.

They discuss virtual sales and why sellers struggle with it.

Meridith and Lauren talk about sales training, not keeping up with technology, and why people are not getting the proper training on how to run an online meeting and demo.

Lauren tells Meridith about the importance of sharing your personality and individuality to offset the automation of virtual selling. They also reflect on your energy level and how that impacts virtual selling and hear about Lauren's class called Demos That Don't Suck.

Lauren tells Meridith her thoughts on where sales will be in 10 years and how marketing could surpass sales.

Lauren also gives her best piece of advice.

https://factor8.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/insidesalesadvisor/

Today, Meridith talks with the 1st Lady of Sales, Dr. Cindy McGovern.

Meridith and Dr. Cindy discuss the subject of Dr. Cindy's best-selling book on brand.

They cover why your personal brand is crucial and why you already have one, whether you consciously created it or not.

Dr. Cindy tells Meridith why you should develop your brand, align it with your core values, and live it every day unapologetically.

They talk about why the world loves Dolly Parton and use her as an example of someone who has created the perfect brand for herself, which is so effective.

Dr. Cindy describes the great rebrand and why she thinks it is happening now.

She also tells Meridith why it is essential to have a brand plan, just as you would create a business plan.

Listen to Dr. Cindy's best advice for branding yourself and your business.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcindy/

https://www.sellyourselfbook.com/

https://drcindy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/1stladyofsales/

Today, Meridith talks with the No BS Sales guru Walker McKay.

Walker has trained over 200 sales teams and Coached businesses in nearly 100 industries. As a result, companies see a minimum 5x return on their investment working with Walker. He has also worked with sales teams from one to several hundred people and is the founder and principal of the No BS Sales School and Podcast.

They discuss asking prospective clients the right questions and digging deeper than the data to determine if they would be a good fit.

Walker tells Meridith how his No BS training came to be, and they talk about the difference between really successful salespeople and those who aren't.

Meridith and Walker discuss the components of effective sales training and the importance of a phone call.

Find out what sales professionals must do today to position themselves as experts, and hear Walke's number one tip.

https://www.walkermckay.com/home

Today, Meridith talks with sales guru Carson Heady.

They discuss how he accidentally got into sales. They also talk about why sales has a reputation for being such a challenging profession., the importance of investing time in training people, and having good processes in place.

Meridith and Carson also discuss burnout, having ruthless discipline around your schedule, and how Carson constructs his list of non-negotiables daily.

Carson tells Meridith his thoughts on the importance of building relationships, supporting others, and the power of networking to build those relationships.

They also discuss the pressure of sales, and Carson tells Meridith the two things you need to be concrete about when looking for your next job.

Finally, hear about Carson's new book Salesman on Fire, and where you can get a copy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsonvheady/

https://carsonvheady.wordpress.com/

Today, Meridith talks with Lori Richardson of Score More Sales. Lori founded Score More Sales in 2002 to help companies grow revenues through strategic sales efforts, using lessons learned from 20 years in B2B sales and leadership roles.

Lori tells Meridith how her grandmother, who ran multiple clothing apparel stores, inspired her and how she ultimately got into sales.

They discuss what prompted Lori to start researching why there weren't more women in sales and what working in a male-dominated industry is like.

They go into the differences in selling between men and women and learning how to find your way as a woman in a male-dominated profession.

Lori talks about her group Women Sales Pros. She tells Meridith how the members help each other and how the group encourages business owners to change their hiring processes.

They also discuss the work to get more women to speak on the main stage at business conferences.

Lor tells Meridith about her new book, She Sells, and why she wrote it as a guide for more managers to hire more women.

Finally, Lori gives Meridith tips from the book and tells her what she thinks are the biggest mistakes companies are making right now.

https://www.scoremoresales.com/

https://womensalespros.com/shesells/

https://womensalespros.com/

Today Meridith is joined by sales expert Matthew Pollard. Matthew is the author of The Introverts Edge and his new book The Introverts Edge to Networking.

Matthew started his sales journey by searching YouTube for sales system videos to improve his selling technique. Through watching as many videos as he could, he found a system that made sense to him, implemented it, and his sales career took off.

Meridith and Matthew discuss the best sales technique, whether introvert or extrovert, which is finding ONE sales system that works for you and implementing it. Matthew believes that people who apply a methodical system are the most successful. Find out why he thinks introverts also make the best salespeople.

They go into the importance of consistency, the importance of doing the research before you jump on a sales call, and how storytelling builds rapport and can work quickly to clinch the sale.

Matthew tells Meridith why networking and storytelling are critical. A story designed to entertain, engage, and share emotion creates rapport easily and makes the customer see themselves in your story and you as the logical choice to work with them.

Finally, Matthew answers some listener questions.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewpollardspeaker/

https://matthewpollard.com/start-here

https://matthewpollard.com/theintrovertsedge/networking

https://matthewpollard.com/theintrovertsedge/book

Today Meridith talks with The Sales Evangelist Donald C. Kelly. As The Chief Sales Evangelist for The Sales Evangelist, Donald oversees business development strategies for small to mid-size organizations. He conducts workshops, and keynote presentations, designs sales processes, offers sales team training, and coaches sales, individuals, and executives. In addition, Donald is the host of The Sales Evangelist podcast, which is heard in over 155 countries.

Meridith and Donald talk about how he grew up in Jamaica and thought he was being a businessman, not selling. He tells Meridith the inspiration for his podcast name, how he became known as The Sales Evangelist, and why he loves spreading his message so enthusiastically.

They discuss the misconception people have about sales and how to get past that notion to let people know you have a solution to a problem they have. You are also there to educate and give people enough knowledge to buy from you.

Donald tells Meridith he thinks if you have a valuable solution to a problem, it is your moral obligation to offer assistance and educate people about it.

Meridith and Donald go into showing your enthusiasm for your product or service, and getting them to experience your product is the best way to reach your audience.

They also discuss the importance of talking to your clients and getting testimonials about why they love your product or service. They will tell you everything you need to be able to sell your product more efficiently.

Finally, hear Donald's analogy on the Boy Scouts' tin foil dinner and see how that translates to the business world.

https://thesalesevangelist.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldckelly/

https://www.instagram.com/donaldckelly/

Today Meridith talks with the founder of A1 Garage Doors, Tommy Mello.

Meridith and Tommy talk about how he went from $50,000 in debt to building a $100 + million company.

They discuss his struggles and how he discovered the key to business success: following KPIs, SOPs, and checklists and having a great team.

They dive into really understanding your numbers, what you should track and what you focus on.

They get into what Tommy looks for when he hires employees and how he retains them. It's NOT just about the money. Hear how he loves to invest in his employees.

Tommy also talks about why he thinks the CFO is the most important person in the company.

They also discuss the four KPIs that can run any business and the three ways to make money.

Tommy tells Meridith about his new book Elevate: Build a Business Where Everybody Wins and when and where you can get a copy.

Finally, Meridith and Tommy dig into why 2023 could be the year of the biggest opportunity, even in this economy.

https://homeserviceexpert.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/

https://book.elevateandwin.com/order1665131650563

This week Meridith talks with Dee C. Marshall about talent, diversity, and engagement.

Dee is the CEO at Diverse & Engaged, where she speaks three languages, leadership development, workplace culture, and diversity. Her corporate clients retain her when they have a challenge, attracting engaging or retaining diverse workplace culture. Dee is also the co-host of the Brown Table Talk Podcast and serves on several committees.

Meridith and Dee talk about ESG, Environmental and Social Governance, and how that relates to being a responsible leader and what that has to do with talent in the workplace. They also discuss how Dee helps leaders solve problems by attracting diverse talent to an organization.

They delve into the changing demographic of the workplace now, why it is critical to focus on diverse talent now more than ever, and what spurred the tipping point of the diversity shift.

Dee tells Meridith why inclusive leadership is so important and how she works with clients to understand cultural competence, lead people through a cultural lens, and understand diverse dimensions in the workplace.

They discuss how to be a leader who supports cultural diversity while living in a location with little diversity.

Finally, Dee gives two pieces of advice to business owners struggling with turning uncertainty into competitive advantage.

https://www.diverseandengaged.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deecmarshall/

Today Meridith welcomes workforce thought leader Cara Silletto to talk about talent engagement, acquisition, and employee retention.

Cara is an expert at figuring out why people are leaving and, more importantly, how to keep them longer. She is focused on bridging generational gaps and reducing turnover. She talks about everything from proper onboarding and that new hire experience to bridging generational gaps, making managers more effective in their roles. Cara also includes compensation in the conversation and talks about the general culture.

Cara and Meridith discuss the importance of proper onboarding in the workplace and how to attract, recruit and keep employees. They also talk about creating an environment where people want to work. They dive into the outdated mindset of some employers when it comes to hiring as opposed to the larger demographic of people who want a workplace where they can be valued and heard. Meridith and Cara cover the Great Resignation and why Cara thinks this has been in the works for years leading up to Covid.

They also discuss the fallacy that nobody wants to work and the many factors that contribute to the abundance of jobs available, including the near-zero legal workforce immigration in 2020 and 2021 and how this impacts the labor-focused positions across the country. They talk about employee retention and the importance of a proper recruiting function, including better onboarding, new hire experience, a cross-training plan, career development, and having great managers. Finally, Cara tells Meridith what she thinks are the most prominent mistakes organizations make regarding talent.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carasilletto/

https://www.magnetculture.com/

Joining Meridith today is Bill Treasurer, owner, and founder of Giant Leap Consulting for over 20 years. Giant Leap Consulting is a courage-building company that helps people in organizations drive out fear to get superior performance and be more courageous in their interactions with one another. Before that, Bill worked with Accenture, one of the world's largest management and technology consulting companies. He was their first full-time internal executive coach and was coaching leaders who outranked him and had more leadership experience.

Meridith and Bill discuss leadership challenges in a post-Covid, hybrid work environment. They also talk about the most critical aspect of being a leader.

Bill tells Meridith about his new book "Leadership Two Words at a Time" and how narrowing down problems into two words to resolve an issue can be beneficial and make taking action inevitable. They cover the importance of the book's three sections: Leading Yourself, Leading People, and Leading the Work. Hear which one Bill thinks is the most crucial to be a great leader.

Bill talks about the inspiration from one of his earlier books, Leaders Open Doors, and the brilliance in its simplicity. Finally, bill shares his best advice for setting your 2023 goals with Meridith.

https://www.giantleapconsulting.com/

btreasurer@giantleap.consulting.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/courage/

Meridith's guest today is communications specialist Stacey Hanke. Stacey is the author of the book; Influence Redefined…Be the Leader You Were Meant to Be, Monday to Monday® and founder of Stacey Hanke Inc. She has trained and presented to thousands to rid business leaders of bad body language habits and to choose words wisely in the financial industry, healthcare industry, government, and everyone in between. Her client list includes FedEx, McDonald's, Google, Kraft Heinz, Nationwide, Boeing, Discover, and Oracle. In addition to her client list, she has been the Emcee for Tedx.

Stacey tells Meridith what communicating with influence is and why it is so important, not only in the business world but in life. Communication is the core of everything we do. They discuss why it is critical to record yourself to find out how you come across verbally and non-verbally and why you need to understand your communication style's impact through your listeners' eyes and ears.

You'll want to hear Stacey's three steps to communicating with influence. They also cover the importance of responsiveness. Finally, Stacey tells Meridith why she strongly believes in continued personal and professional development.

https://staceyhankeinc.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyhanke/

https://twitter.com/StaceyHankeInc

https://www.facebook.com/StaceyHankeInc?ref=hl

https://www.youtube.com/staceyhanke

Influence Redefined...Be the Leader You Were Meant To Be, Monday to Monday; https://staceyhankeinc.com/book/

Ranked by Global Gurus in the TOP 30 SALES TRAINERS, Joe Pici is a strategist for top sales professionals and a coach specializing in results-driven sales training through Rapport Mastery™. Since 1992 he has functioned as a catalyst for sales teams and individuals, helping them sharpen their skills for creating appointments and closing sales through his live phone call workshops. Rapport Mastery™ sales training, a methodology exclusive to Pici & Pici Inc., is a powerful skill builder which is straightforward to apply.

 COO and co-founder of Pici & Pici Inc., Joe is also co-author and intellectual resource behind the books ***Sell Naked on the Phone*** and ***Sell Naked*** ***in Person***. In addition, Joe has expanded his knowledge and coaching expertise into a comprehensive, turnkey system for success in sales.

Today, Meridith talks with consultative, outbound sales expert Joe Pici. Joe and his wife, Dawn, specialize in helping people generate leads and master live, outbound telephone calls to book quality appointments.

Meridith and Joe discuss the biggest challenges in sales right now. Joe tells Meridith why he thinks having a sales process is the most critical aspect of sales. A good process will work in any economy.

They cover the most essential parts of the sales process, from how many ways to generate prospect leads to follow-up, proposals, and closing the sale.

Joe talks about the importance of the sales leader's role in training a good salesperson.

Find out what sales mean to Joe and why it's not about closing the deal. They also discuss the difference between consultative and transactional sales and why sales get a bad rap.

Hear about Joe's love of outbound, live calls, and the art of scripting.

Text the word "salesedge" to 55678 for a link to Joe's free 20-minute masterclass webinar, "The 9 Essentials of Sales Success."

Call 407-947-2590 for a complimentary cup of Joe

https://www.piciandpici.com/

https://www.sellmorevirtually.com/

Hilary Blair is an energized speaker and trainer that capitalizes on her professional voice-over and stage training techniques to re-frame executive presence and leadership communication. She facilitates and leads programs internationally for corporate teams and leadership to elevate presence, communication, and authentic connection. Clients include AWS, Starbucks, ACLU, and MD Anderson. Hilary is a TedX speaker, a cofounder of ARTiculate: Real&Clear, and holds an MFA in acting from the National Theatre Conservatory and a BA from Yale University.

In this episode of Thrive, Meridith and Hilary discuss how Hilary was approached to work with business people while acting. They also talk about the importance of being self-aware as opposed to self-consciousness, being present, the art of good listening, and how to stay focused while listening. It's all about breathing.

Hilary tells Meridith how she discovered the difference between being a coach and leading a team and why it matters.

https://articulaterc.com

https://articulaterc.thinkific.com/courses/lead-with-your-voice-2020

linkedin.com/in/hbarticulate

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_TvFiNTIcqmfhIjBbg2EyQ

Larry Long Jr is the Founder and CEO of LLJR Enterprises, focusing on sales motivation, inspiration, training & coaching. He is the host of the 'Midweek Midday Motivational Minute' and the Author of 'JOLT!'.

As a former college athlete (Go Terps! He played baseball for the University of Maryland), Larry is highly passionate about coaching and helping professionals take their game to the 'next level.' Additionally, as an experienced sales leader with a demonstrated history of success in SaaS sales, Larry brings a unique perspective to the table and understands many of the challenges that sales professionals and leaders face.

Today Meridith and Larry discuss how Larry started his sales career cold calling and why he thinks everyone should add it to their connection repertoire. They also talk about how Larry leverages one-on-one messages with LinkedIn mobile to send video messages and why that works to connect with people.

Larry tells Meridith about his book, Jolt, and how his parents inspired him.

They also consider how sales get a bad rap and what the word "no" really means to them.

Larry shares his best advice to believe in yourself.

JOLT! - https://www.amazon.com/Jolt-Intentionality-Rediscover-Believe-Greatness/dp/B09YP6C8YM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1UYJXTNQIHLXO&keywords=larry+long+jr&qid=1663203008&s=books&sprefix=larry+long+jr%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/longjr7/

https://twitter.com/larrylongjr

https://www.facebook.com/longjr/

https://www.youtube.com/c/LarryLongJr/featured

None

This week Meridith talks with leadership expert Dave Sanderson.

Dave Sanderson is an Inspirational TEDx Speaker, Author, and Philanthropist who channeled his life-changing experience on US Airways Flight 1549, the Miracle on the Hudson, into a mission to provide insight and strategies on the essential facets of faith, conviction, and leadership; attributes that he credits with saving his life. He has shared the lessons from that experience to over 1700 audiences worldwide and the strategies he learned and implemented to show how you can not only grow from a traumatic life event but, in one hundred days, achieve your most sought-after goals and outcomes.

Dave and Meridith discuss Dave's experience as a passenger of US Airways Flight 1549, the Miracle on the Hudson, and how the leadership skills used in the aftermath of that flight are the same leadership skills used for sales.

They also talk about building relationships with clients and learning to listen to and focus on their urgent needs. Then, look ahead to potential problems and find solutions to become their hero.

Meridith and Dave address the supply chain issue and how Covid exposed the problem of how broken many business supply chains are.

Dave gives his best advice on how doing this one thing changed his mindset.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hiredavesanderson/

https://davesandersonspeaks.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Turmoil-Triumph-Dave-Sanderson-ebook/dp/B0B46S7RBL/ref=sr_1_3?crid=117CJXF3VPQ9J&keywords=dave+sanderson&qid=1657047509&sprefix=dave+sanderson%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-3

In today's episode, Meridith talks with relationship, communications, and connections expert Rachel DeAlto.

Rachel DeAlto is a relationship expert, media personality, keynote speaker, and the author of "relatable: How to Connect with Anyone Anywhere (Even if It Scares You)" (Simon & Schuster's Simon Element, September 2021). Rachel maintains a law degree and a Master's in psychology and is on a mission to connect people to their most powerful resource—each other.

Meridith and Rachel talk about how Rachel began as a litigation attorney while creating her own company in the dating industry. This company creation led to TV and speaking engagement and pushed Rachel into the spotlight she always wanted.

Rachel reveals her views on the power of relationships and connection and the difference between the two.

Meridith and Rachel discuss what that difference is and why it is so important, especially for young people, to cultivate in-person relationships, shaving virtual connections, and how to build those relationships properly.

https://www.amazon.com/relatable-Connect-Anyone-Anywhere-Scares/dp/1982171081/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1658171786&sr=8-1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheldealto

https://twitter.com/RachelDeAlto

http://www.facebook.com/racheldealto

https://www.racheldealto.com/

relatable: How to Connect with Anyone, Anywhere (Even If It Scares You)

Today Meridith is joined by Anthony Iannarino to discuss the art of sales. Anthony tells Meridith how he started his career in sales at age 15, without even knowing he was selling.

They talk about the importance of having conversations rather than pushing a product.

Anthony reveals why consultative selling is so important. But, first, you must be able to tell your clients why they have their problem and how they can fix it, putting you in the position of the client's trusted advisor.

Meridith and Anthony also go into the current state of inflation, why Anthony doesn't think a recession will happen, and why he thinks there are opportunities in a challenging economy.

They discuss Anthony's new book, Elite Sales, and the upcoming Outbound Sales Conference.

Contact Anthony at https://www.thesalesblog.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/iannarino/

Episode Summary:

Today we talk with Stu Heinecke about his inspiration for his weeds strategy model and the element of the "weed mindset" you need to cultivate the unfair advantages in our businesses.

Everybody knows what it means to grow like a weed. It turns out, they have a foolproof model that anyone can use in their own business.

Today’s Guest: Stu Heinecke

Stu Heinecke is a bestselling business author, marketer, and Wall Street Journal cartoonist. His first book, How to Get a Meeting with Anyone, introduced the concept of Contact Marketing and was named one of the top 64 sales books of all time. His latest release, How to Grow Your Business Like a Weed, lays out a complete model for explosive business growth based on the strategies, attributes, and tools weeds use to grow, expand, dominate and defend their turf. He is a twice-nominated hall of fame marketer, Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center author-in-residence, and was named the “Father of Contact Marketing” by the American Marketing Association. He lives on a beautiful island in Puget Sound, Washington.

stuheinecke@gmail.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuheinecke/

https://www.facebook.com/stu.heinecke.1

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClbbSY6wWjNiu5buNurz5TQ

Episode Summary:

We are talking with Joe Dalton, a leader in mindset, systems, and processes. Joe discusses the importance of the perspective of self-worth and the six elements every business person needs to go through to make their business great.

Today’s Guest: Joe Dalton

Joe Dalton is a World-Class Business Consultant Mentor, Radio Show Host, an award-winning Dublin South FM Radio radio show, Professional Inspirational Speaker, and a TEDx Speaker.

Joe has vast knowledge and experience in customer acquisition; He has worked worldwide across many different industries, including software and tech, automotive, retail, human genomics, fitness & & wellbeing, media, creative, and consulting.

joe@jdc.ie

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-dalton-ireland-uk-usa/

https://www.facebook.com/BreakthroughBrands/

https://www.youtube.com/c/JoeDalton

Episode Summary:

Today Meridith talks with Linda Swindling about the power of negotiation, what negotiation really means and why the power is in asking. Then, listen for Linda's special offer at the show's end to receive bonus tips and free resources.

Today’s Guest: Linda Swindling

Have you ever wanted to ask for something and stopped yourself?

Guess what? You’re not alone.

Our next speaker is an author of 20 books and is considered the go-to expert for negotiating everything from big deals to work drama. A TEDx Speaker, she’s been named Top 30 Global Gurus in Negotiation for the past three years. I’ve known her for years through her leadership with the National Speakers Association and because we speak to some of the same clients. We are also friends.

I’ve asked her to talk to us about how you thrive through negotiating for what you really want. Please help me welcome the mother of two, a Certified Speaking Professional and a "recovering" attorney … Linda Swindling.

http://www.linkedin.com/in/lindaswindling

https://twitter.com/LindaSwindling

https://www.facebook.com/JourneyOnLindaSwindling

https://www.youtube.com/user/LindaSwindling

https://www.lindaswindling.com/

Meridith talks with Tiffani Bova, global growth and innovation evangelist for Salesforce. They discuss the importance of using technology to stand out from the competition, how the last two years have changed from face-to-face and digital interactions, and the new challenges sellers face. Due to this shift, the need to get comfortable using technology as soon as possible.

Tiffani Bova is the global growth evangelist at Salesforce and the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book GROWTH IQ: Get Smarter About the Choices that Will Make or Break Your Business. Bova has been named to the latest Thinkers50’s list of the world’s top management thinkers and is a welcomed guest on Bloomberg, BNN, Cheddar, MSNBC, and Yahoo Finance, among others. She also contributes her thinking to publications including Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Diginomica, Quora, Thrive, Rotman School of Management and Duke Dialogue Review. She is a change maker whose thought-provoking and forward-thinking insights have made her a frequent guest on various industry-leading podcasts and live broadcasts.

Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanibova/

https://twitter.com/Tiffani_Bova

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLfZMGT55bpY4vGDXW95sZQ

Growth IQ

www.tiffanibova.com

Topic - The Power of the Upsell – What it is, Why it Matters and How to Do it.

Question: Hank from Biloxi Mississippi - "It has been two years since our sales team has been out face to face with customers, and we have more than dropped the ball on doing our cross sells and upsells - the last two years has been about keeping our head above water. Now we need to get back with it - what is the best way to get my sales team conditioned to upsell and cross sell again?"

Book:
Impact Players: How to Take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply Your Impact by Liz Wiseman

Lightening Round: Top 10 Ways Upselling Strategies

Impact Players: How to Take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply Your Impact

Title: Opening New Markets

Question: Luigi – Milan Italy – These last two years have been tough, we sell into a few markets that continue to be challenged and we are not sure are going to recover from COVID. I need to diversify our revenue streams, and open up some new markets. What are the best ways to choose which markets to sell into, and what is the best way to structure my sales team to sell into these industries.

Books:

Trusted Leader by David Horsager
The Trust Edge by David Horsager

Lightening Round: Top ways to build a prospect list in a new market

The Trust Edge: How Top Leaders Gain Faster Results, Deeper Relationships, and a Stronger Bottom Line

Trusted Leader: 8 Pillars That Drive Results

Thrive! Sell Without Selling Out

Ande Lyons

Nate

Join business growth strategist Meridith Elliott Powell as she talks with economist and leadership expert, Dr. Mary Kelly, CEO of Productive Leaders about what it takes to position your business for success.

Join Meridith Elliott Powell as she talks with Bill Cates, the Referral Coach about how to turn uncertainty into competitive advantage.

Meridith Elliott Powell, business growth expert joins Mario Martinez, "born and raised sales guy" and founder of Vengresso to talk about selling remotely in today's environment. Mario shares what he has witnessed when COVID hit and what he sees is happening now between the buyer and seller.

Meridith Elliott Powell, business growth expert joins "workplace calibration specialist" Laura Williams in a conversation on what is happening among leaders in today's workplace. Laura Williams shares her insights on how leaders are dealing with loss of communication and having learn how to communicate effectively.

Meridith Elliott Powell, business growth expert meets with guest Brynne Tillman, leading LinkedIn trainer discuss the how to leverage networking socially . . . virtually. There are challenges but Brynne Tillman shares tips on how to overcome them.

Meridith Elliott Powell, business growth expert gets together with leading sales expert on emotional intelligence, Colleen Stanely. They discuss the role emotional intelligence plays in the virtual world.

Meridith Elliott Powell, business growth expert gets together with Allison Shapira, founder of Global Public Speaking and author of Speak with Impact. Allison is former opera singer turned entrepreneur, author, speaker and educator. Since COVID, everyone has had to pivot, including Allison. She shares how she teaches others to communicate - on both personal and professional level in the virtual world.