Get Unstuck & On Target

"Customers will buy a lesser product from someone they like over a better product from someone they don't." - this cold, hard truth opens up a powerful conversation about trust-based leadership with sales expert Steve Landrum. In this milestone 200th episode, Steve Landrum, Principal of Etowah Sales Solutions and award-winning sales leader, shares timeless principles that transform how leaders build lasting relationships. As an outsourced VP of Sales who has earned the prestigious President's Circle Award in both 2023 and 2024, Steve breaks down why genuine connection matters more than slick sales techniques. Through rich examples from his decades of experience, Steve and host Mike O'Neill explore how authentic leadership creates results that last. This conversation goes beyond typical sales tactics to reveal fundamental truths about human connection in business. Key Insights to Look Out For: • The most powerful way to build trust is by getting others to talk about themselves first - use their name and listen intently • Written recommendations and referrals from satisfied clients create a "second sales force" that works around the clock • Coming in second place isn't failure if you've built genuine relationships - you'll often get another chance when the winner stumbles Whether you're leading teams or driving growth, these proven principles will transform how you approach building trust and influence. Listen now to gain actionable strategies from one of today's most respected sales leaders. Share this episode with other leaders who want to create lasting impact through authentic connection. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/200

"True leaders don't create followers - they create more leaders through empowerment." Here's how Julie Tilenius transformed a 24/7 emergency service company into a powerhouse of empowered decision-makers. As President of TrueSource, Julie Tilenius brings 25 years of leadership experience from MSC Industrial Supply to revolutionize how facility maintenance services are delivered. In this episode, she joins Mike O'Neill to share how empowering frontline teams to make critical decisions has become their competitive advantage in handling emergency situations for major retailers across the country. Mike highlights that in today's fast-paced business environment, leaders must not only empower their teams but also be willing to adjust their own leadership styles to meet the evolving needs of their organizations. This adaptability fosters a culture of resilience and innovation, enabling teams to thrive even in high-pressure situations. Through candid conversation, Julie reveals how her servant leadership style and focus on building trust has created a culture where customer service representatives confidently make split-second decisions to resolve urgent facility issues. She explains how empowerment isn't just a buzzword - it's a strategic approach that drives both speed and quality in their 24/7 emergency response operations. Key Insights to Look Out For: • How giving frontline teams decision-making authority leads to faster emergency response times without sacrificing quality • Why building strong affiliate partnerships and maintaining high accountability standards creates consistent service delivery • The critical role of emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership in motivating teams during high-pressure situations If you're ready to transform your leadership approach and create a more empowered, high-performing team, this episode provides actionable strategies you can implement today. Subscribe to get more insights on building stronger organizations through effective leadership. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/199

From Serial Entrepreneur to Venture Studio Pioneer: How John Ghiorso is Reshaping the Agency Landscape Are you ready to witness the birth of something extraordinary in the agency world? Meet John Ghiorso, a successful entrepreneur who sold his Amazon-focused agency Orca Pacific to Media Monks, only to discover that retirement wasn't his true calling. Now, he's embarking on an ambitious mission to launch five marketing agencies in just two years through his new venture studio. In this enlightening conversation with Mike O'Neill, John shares his unique approach to building multiple agencies simultaneously, drawing from his extensive experience in the digital marketing space. With one agency already operational and another close to launch, John openly discusses his strategy for creating scalable, successful service businesses in the B2B sector. Key Insights to Look Out For: • Why most agencies struggle with growth and profitability, and how systematic operational frameworks can change that • The power of building in public and sharing knowledge, even in a competitive landscape • How consuming high-quality information and making better decisions leads to accelerated business success John's practical wisdom extends beyond theory - he's putting his experience to work in real-time, creating a venture studio that aims to transform how agencies are built and scaled. His approach combines proven operational frameworks with innovative growth strategies, all while maintaining complete bootstrap control. Ready to transform your perspective on building and scaling service businesses? Check out this episode to learn from someone who's not just talking about it but actively doing it. Subscribe to get more insights from successful entrepreneurs who are reshaping their industries. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/198

Before becoming a life transformation coach for elite business owners, Andrew Anderson stood crying alone in his high school bathroom stall, hiding his shoes so no one would know who was inside. This raw vulnerability shared in the podcast sets the tone for a profound discussion between host Mike O'Neill and Andrew Anderson about why external success often fails to bring internal peace. Anderson talks about a concept called "unconscious incompetence" - when successful people don't know what they don't know. Through powerful client stories, he illustrates how childhood programming shapes adult behavior, even in highly accomplished individuals. Mike O'Neill masterfully draws out practical insights about breaking free from limiting beliefs, including: Why throwing money at personal problems doesn't work How childhood decisions create adult patterns The reason high achievers struggle to find fulfillment Why seeking parental approval can haunt successful adults How permission to let go leads to transformation The conversation goes down a wonderful path as Anderson shares how his father, "the greatest salesman in the world," shaped his ability to ask tough questions that others won't dare ask. This episode goes beyond typical success advice to examine why accomplished people often feel stuck despite their achievements. Through real client examples, Anderson demonstrates how addressing root causes rather than symptoms leads to lasting change. For leaders wondering why their external success hasn't brought internal peace, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on finding genuine fulfillment. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/197

The stock market seems complicated until you hear Glen Starr explain it. This former chemical engineer turned financial advisor breaks down investing into simple terms that even a 5th grader could understand. In this candid conversation with executive coach Mike O'Neill, Glen shares why most people focus on the wrong things when investing. His most controversial take? Stock prices only matter twice - when you buy and when you sell. Everything else is noise. Glen's practical wisdom comes from 32 years of helping clients build wealth, sparked by an unexpected career change during an oil industry downturn. His engineering background gives him a unique perspective on financial planning, focusing on facts rather than emotions. Key insights from the episode: Mike guides the conversation masterfully, drawing out Glen's most valuable insights while keeping the discussion grounded in practical advice anyone can use. Their exchange about trust and perspective, using the analogy of a haircut, perfectly captures why having an outside viewpoint is crucial for both investing and leadership. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this episode strips away the complexity of financial planning and focuses on what really matters - owning successful businesses for the long term. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/196

Your best employees don't quit over pay - they quit over managers who fake culture alignment. In this candid conversation, HR veteran Maggie Carrington shares hard-earned insights from 35+ years transforming workplace cultures, including a shocking story of a manager who fooled top leadership while quietly destroying team morale. Mike O'Neill and Maggie dig deep into: Key takeaway: Cultural transformation isn't a quick fix. It requires long-term vision and commitment to continuous improvement, with short-term wins serving as building blocks toward lasting change. Maggie shares her experience working with Dr. W. Edwards Deming in 1987, revealing how his focus on quality management was really about something much deeper - how organizations treat their people. Mike brings his executive coaching perspective, challenging leaders to consider why people truly follow them - obligation or authentic belief in their vision? Whether you're a CEO, HR leader, or manager, this episode provides actionable insights for building a culture where business objectives and employee fulfillment successfully coexist. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/195

Most people quit when the path gets tough. Barry Slaymaker did the opposite. After leaving engineering school, Barry found himself on the back of a pickup truck in Georgia, digging silt fence in 100-degree heat. Instead of viewing it as rock bottom, he saw it as his starting point. In this candid conversation with Mike O'Neill, Barry shares how persistence shaped his journey from construction worker to President and CFO of ATC Development. Key moments include: • Why Barry chose manual labor over sitting in his parents' basement • The pivotal decision to work full-time while pursuing multiple degrees • How failure became his greatest teacher in leadership • The cost of persistence on family life and work-life balance • Why creating your own setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities Mike brings out crucial leadership insights through thoughtful questions about distinguishing productive persistence from stubborn determination. Their discussion reveals how authenticity in leadership - including admitting failures - builds stronger teams. The conversation takes an intimate turn when Barry acknowledges how his drive impacted his role as husband and father, showing that persistence comes with real trade-offs. For leaders struggling with setbacks or questioning their path forward, this episode provides a raw look at how staying in the game - even when you're not the smartest or most talented - can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/194

The secret weapon of high-performing leaders isn't what you think. Gratitude isn't just for Thanksgiving anymore. It's becoming the cornerstone of effective leadership. In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with David George Brooke, known as "That Gratitude Guy," to unpack how a simple shift in mindset can transform your leadership style and your life. Brooke, a former Nordstrom store manager turned gratitude expert, shares his journey from corporate America to becoming a bestselling author and speaker. He reveals how a tragic personal loss became the catalyst for his mission to spread the power of gratitude. Key insights from the conversation: • The science behind gratitude: It's not just feel-good fluff. Brooke cites research showing how practicing gratitude can lead to improved health, reduced anxiety, and increased happiness. • The 5-minute habit that's changing lives: Brooke breaks down his daily gratitude journaling practice and how it's impacted thousands. • Why listening might be your most underrated leadership skill: Mike and David discuss the transformative power of truly hearing your team. • The Golden Rule of management: Brooke shares his no-nonsense approach to leading by example. • How gratitude can pull you out of a downward spiral: Real-life examples of people finding hope through thankfulness. Mike O'Neill brings his executive coaching expertise to the table, asking probing questions that get to the heart of how leaders can implement these practices for tangible results. Whether you're a seasoned CEO or an aspiring team lead, this episode offers practical strategies to create a more positive, productive workplace culture through the power of appreciation. Don't miss Brooke's challenge to listeners at the end - it might just be the nudge you need to start your own gratitude practice today. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/193

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Mark Farmer, a decorated Air Force veteran turned HR leader, to unpack the often-overlooked strengths military veterans bring to civilian leadership roles. Mark reveals the intense leadership training military members receive before taking on management positions - a stark contrast to many civilian organizations. He shares how this rigorous preparation equips veterans with invaluable skills in communication, accountability, and crisis management. But the insights don't stop there. Mike and Mark dive deep into the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, offering practical advice for both veterans and the organizations looking to hire them. Mark emphasizes the importance of finding a strong cultural fit, noting how veterans often seek purpose-driven work environments that align with their values. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Mark drops a bombshell statistic: 69% of people say their manager has a greater impact on their health than their doctor, therapist, or even their spouse. This revelation underscores the critical importance of effective leadership development programs. Drawing from his experience at Grain Craft, Mark outlines a comprehensive approach to leadership training that goes beyond surface-level skills. He stresses the need for ongoing coaching and mentorship, explaining how these practices can dramatically reduce turnover rates and boost employee engagement. Mike contributes his own insights on the distinction between consulting and coaching, highlighting how the right questions can unlock hidden potential in employees. Whether you're a veteran looking to transition to civilian leadership, an HR professional seeking to improve your organization's leadership development program, or a manager aiming to have a more positive impact on your team, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking ideas. Tune in for an episode that might just change the way you think about leadership, veterans, and the power of asking the right questions. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/192

AI doesn't have feelings, but your employees do. As leaders, we must navigate the ethical minefield of AI while nurturing human potential. In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Marlene Kreidler, a seasoned business executive turned academic, to explore the intersection of AI, ethics, and leadership in the modern workplace. Marlene shares her unique perspective on the "AI generation" - those born after 2010 who will enter the workforce with AI fully embedded in their lives. She challenges leaders to think beyond just training employees on AI tools and instead focus on developing critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills. Mike and Marlene discuss: • The importance of maintaining human touch in an increasingly digital world • How to prepare for a workforce where AI is the norm, not the exception • Practical ways to foster ethical thinking in employees of all generations • The value of vulnerability and transparency in leadership Marlene recounts a personal story of using AI to overcome a teaching challenge, highlighting both the power and limitations of the technology. She emphasizes that while AI can provide quick solutions, human judgment and values remain crucial. Mike brings his executive coaching expertise to the conversation, asking pointed questions about how leaders can inspire authentic followership in an AI-driven world. This episode offers a thought-provoking blend of forward-thinking insights and timeless leadership wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, you'll gain valuable perspectives on steering your team through the AI revolution while keeping humanity at the forefront. Don't miss this opportunity to get ahead of the curve and shape the ethical landscape of tomorrow's workplace. Listen now and equip yourself to lead with both technological savvy and human-centered values. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/191

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill talks with Gary Searle about the power of referral marketing in today's business landscape. Gary Searle, founder of Customerse, shares his expertise on building consistent referral sources. He breaks down the five most reliable referral channels: 1. Existing clients 2. Business partnerships 3. Affiliate networks 4. Employee referrals 5. Strategic networking Mike and Gary discuss why traditional marketing tactics are losing effectiveness. As ad costs rise and algorithms change, businesses need new ways to reach customers. Gary argues referral marketing fills this gap. The conversation covers practical tips for asking clients for referrals without feeling awkward. Gary emphasizes timing these requests after a "win" and framing them as helping the client's network. A key insight: Every referral starts with a conversation. Gary stresses the importance of productive dialogue in driving referrals at any scale. Mike adds valuable perspective as an executive coach, noting parallels between referral marketing and building coaching relationships. Both rely on meaningful conversations to create connections. Topics to look out for: • The five most consistent referral sources for businesses • How to ask for referrals without feeling uncomfortable • Why conversations are the key to unlocking more referrals This episode provides a fresh take on an age-old marketing tactic. Gary and Mike make a compelling case for why referral marketing deserves renewed focus in the digital age. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/190

In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit and two-time bestselling author. Damon shares a deeply personal story of how quitting alcohol 8 years ago transformed his leadership style and life. This vulnerable moment sets the tone for an honest discussion about authentic leadership. Mike digs into Damon's journey from high school baseball star to CEO, uncovering valuable insights on: • The importance of transparency in uncertain times • Why courage to fail is crucial for innovation • How to build a culture that embraces risk-taking • A 3-step formula for overcoming imposter syndrome Damon reveals how his athletic background shaped his leadership philosophy, stressing the value of putting your team first and giving them space to try new things. This conversation is packed with practical advice for leaders looking to build trust, foster innovation, and create a learning culture in their organizations. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode offers fresh perspectives on authentic leadership in the modern workplace. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/189

Serial entrepreneur Shafqat Huq reveals why failure is his secret weapon for business success. In this episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill sits down with Shafqat Huq, a serial entrepreneur who's turned multiple ideas into thriving businesses. Huq takes us on his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his high school days selling discounted sweaters to classmates. He shares candid insights about his failures and how they shaped his future successes. "I think it means that I have failed a lot," Huq admits when asked about being a serial entrepreneur. But those failures yielded valuable lessons he applied to later ventures. Mike digs deep into Huq's experiences, uncovering gems of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs: Mike highlights Huq's ability to make complex tech accessible to non-technical business owners, praising his responsiveness and practical approach. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to start or grow a business. Huq's journey proves that with persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from failures, entrepreneurial success is within reach. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will challenge your thinking and motivate you to take action on your business ideas. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/188

From solopreneur to CEO: The rollercoaster of scaling a tech marketing firm. Ian Hameroff, founder and CEO of Fulcrum Group, shares his journey from a one-man show to leading a team of seven in just five years. In this candid conversation with host Mike O'Neill, Ian reveals: • The unexpected challenges of scaling a business • Why feedback is crucial for growth • How to balance fun and frustration as an entrepreneur Ian emphasizes the importance of having a "virtual board of directors" - mentors and advisors who provide guidance and support. He credits this network for helping him navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Mike probes deeper, asking Ian about the non-linear nature of business growth. Ian agrees, sharing how he learned to embrace the "zigs and zags" of the entrepreneurial journey. Key takeaways: 1. Every company is a tech company in today's world 2. Scaling a business isn't linear - be prepared for unexpected turns 3. Find a balance between pushing for growth and maintaining quality 4. Surround yourself with mentors and advisors 5. Embrace both the fun and frustrating aspects of entrepreneurship Whether you're considering starting a business or looking to scale your existing company, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who's been in the trenches. Don't miss Ian's advice on knowing when to push the throttle and when to ease off in your business growth. You'll learn how Ian and his team at Fulcrum Group help B2B tech companies accelerate their growth through strategic marketing and go-to-market strategies. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone interested in the realities of scaling a company in today's fast-paced tech landscape. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/187

Are you tired of hearing the same old hype about AI? Get ready for a fresh perspective that cuts through the noise and delivers practical, value-driven insights. In this thought-provoking episode, Mike O'Neill sits down with Dr. Robert Joseph, a tech whiz with impressive credentials from MIT and Carnegie Mellon. But don't worry, he's not your typical academic – Joseph has a gift for breaking down complex topics in a way that even non-techies can understand. Together, they explore the true potential of AI, not as a shiny new toy, but as a tool for driving real business value. Joseph shares eye-opening examples of how companies have misused AI, chasing buzzwords instead of focusing on their core goals. But it's not all cautionary tales. You'll also learn how to harness AI's power strategically, using it as a "thought partner" to generate fresh ideas and perspectives you might never have considered. With his refreshingly grounded approach, Joseph challenges leaders to shift their mindset. Instead of getting swept up in the AI hype, he urges them to start with their desired outcomes and work backward, leveraging AI only when it serves those specific goals. Along the way, Mike and Joseph dive into the importance of continuous learning, even (or especially) for successful entrepreneurs. Joseph shares a candid personal story about recognizing his own knowledge gaps and proactively seeking outside expertise – a humbling reminder that we can all benefit from new perspectives. Key points to look out for: • Powerful examples of companies misusing AI by chasing buzzwords instead of business value • Insights on how to strategically harness AI as a "thought partner" to generate fresh ideas • Robert Joseph's candid personal story about recognizing knowledge gaps and seeking outside expertise Whether you're an AI skeptic or an enthusiast, this episode offers a much-needed reality check. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged and emerge with a clearer vision of how to wield AI's potential responsibly and effectively. Don't miss this rare opportunity to gain insights from a true tech polymath who's as passionate about driving value as he is about cutting-edge innovation. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/186

Are you a leader struggling to connect with your team? Maybe you're great with numbers but lack the "soft skills" to truly inspire. In this candid chat, leadership coach Mike O'Neill sits down with Angel Beets, CEO of recruiting powerhouse Gilman Partners. Despite leading a firm that places top execs, Angel's not your typical headhunter. Her secret? Understanding that today's leaders must be masters of communication and emotional intelligence. Gone are the days of leaders barking orders from an office. Angel shares why the most in-demand execs aren't just financial whizzes, but pros at building trust, collaborating, and rolling up their sleeves. Her firm's unique approach to vetting candidates goes beyond resumes to find the humans with true leadership presence. But that's just the start. Angel also lifts the curtain on GP Elevate, her firm's innovative leadership program. Over several months, high-potential managers learn to tackle strategy, talent development, and more - skills often missing from traditional MBAs. The goal? Creating well-rounded leaders prepared to steer organizations with vision and emotional intelligence. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or heading your own company, you'll learn the people skills that motivate teams to follow your vision - not just your title. Prepare to be inspired by Angel's insights on: Throughout, host Mike masterfully guides the conversation, challenging Angel to dig deeper on her innovative approaches. His coaching perspective adds a powerful layer, helping extract maximum value for listeners. Whether you manage a team of 5 or 500, the path to true leadership starts here. Stop telling people what to do and learn to inspire them. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/185

Have you ever felt like you're speaking a different language from your clients? In this candid conversation, Mike O'Neill sits down with Nancy Zare. Despite her impressive credentials (PhD from Boston College, 7 published books), Nancy's approach to sales is refreshingly down-to-earth. Gone are the scripts and high-pressure tactics. Instead, Nancy teaches a counterintuitive method based on deep listening and adapting your communication style to match your prospect's personality type. With decades of research behind her AlikeAbility System, Nancy has cracked the code to making instant connections - turning 50% of prospects into clients. Imagine having that kind of success rate! As a former professor, Nancy's journey from the classroom to the boardroom is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how evolving her business to meet clients' needs led to her becoming a "Sales Whisperer." Mike's insightful questioning skills draw out Nancy's best insights, including: Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or simply want to improve your communication skills, this episode is an invaluable lesson in authentic influence. Join the dynamic duo of Nancy and Mike as they demystify the art of human connection - and learn to turn more prospects into loyal clients and raving fans. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/184

Imagine a former actress who dared to dream beyond the stage, only to find her true calling in helping others conquer their inner critic and achieve unstoppable confidence. Meet Nikki Gangemi, a certified master NLP practitioner, hypnotherapist, and founder of Mindful Matters. In this captivating episode, Nikki shares her transformative journey from pursuing acting to teaching and ultimately becoming a life coach. Prepare to be inspired as Nikki reveals the pivotal moments that pushed her to bloom where she was planted, leading her to create the groundbreaking CALM Method – a simple yet powerful tool for getting the results you want. Join host Mike O'Neill as he dives deep into Nikki's insightful strategies, uncovering practical techniques to reframe limiting beliefs, manage emotions, and forge a new path towards the life you've always envisioned. Whether you're an entrepreneur, perfectionist, or someone who struggles with people-pleasing, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how to silence the inner voice that robs you of time and energy, and embrace a mindset of unwavering self-belief. Nikki's authentic storytelling and real-world examples will leave you feeling empowered, motivated, and equipped with the tools to overcome any obstacle standing in your way. Key points to look out for: • Nikki's life-changing transition from actress to mindset coach and how she found her true calling • The CALM Method - a powerful tool to overcome self-doubt, manage emotions, and reframe limiting beliefs • Practical strategies and real-world examples to cultivate unshakable confidence and achieve your biggest goals Tune in and get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards a life of clarity, confidence, and achieving your wildest dreams. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/183

Mike O'Neill sits down with Alp Kirmizioglu, the mastermind behind RangeWater Real Estate's in-house construction revolution. In this episode, Alp reveals how he transformed a 16-year-old real estate developer into a vertically integrated powerhouse. It's a tale of corporate evolution that rivals Amazon's leap into logistics. Alp shares the challenges of turning a major cost center into a profit engine, all while navigating the treacherous waters of internal politics. He explains: "Construction is your biggest risk when you're a developer. If you cannot execute in construction, obviously your investment is at risk. Meaningfully." But it's not just about numbers. Mike digs deep into the human side of this transformation, uncovering how Alp: - Aligned his vision with RangeWater's existing culture - Tackled the inherent conflict between revenue and cost centers - Built a team that could thrive in this new, hybrid environment Alp's insights on cultural integration are particularly striking: "We really had a very good understanding out of the gate as to what was really important. When we were going to get on this new venture." Mike's probing questions reveal the delicate balance between innovation and tradition in a long-established company. He pushes Alp to share concrete examples of creative problem-solving, leading to a fascinating discussion on the nuts and bolts of corporate transformation. This episode dissects this idea of intrapreneurship, offering invaluable lessons for anyone looking to drive change from within an existing organization. Whether you're a budding corporate innovator or a seasoned executive, you'll find actionable insights to fuel your next big move. Don't miss this deep dive into the art and science of building new businesses within established companies. It's a rare glimpse into the mind of a true intrapreneur, guided by Mike O'Neill's expert questioning. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/182

Max Schneider was a shell of his former self. Anxiety attacks, shingles in his 20s, and a decade of non-stop work had taken their toll. That's when he decided to take a radical step - a month-long surfing and yoga trip to Costa Rica with his wife. In this eye-opening episode of Get Unstuck & On Target, host Mike O'Neill dives deep with Max into his journey from corporate burnout to discovering mindfulness and movement. Max shares how that transformative month in Costa Rica inspired him to launch Sand & Salt Escapes, a mindfulness retreat company helping high-achieving professionals rediscover themselves. Mike and Max explore: • The dangers of constantly "pushing through" without proper rest • Why even a week-long retreat can dramatically shift your perspective • How entrepreneurs often struggle more with unplugging than corporate employees • The unique challenges faced by neurodivergent founders and leaders Max explains his innovative "pond analogy" for understanding the impact of constant stimulation on our minds. He reveals how slowing down allows us to see beneath the surface of our thoughts and discover hidden insights. Mike probes into the practicalities of taking extended time off, addressing the common excuse of "I don't have time." Their conversation highlights the critical importance of intentional rest for sustained high performance. Whether you're a burned-out professional, an overwhelmed entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking more balance, this episode offers invaluable insights on the power of mindfulness and the courage to prioritize your well-being. Tune in to discover how slowing down might be the key to unlocking your full potential. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.unstuck.show/181