Real Relationships Real Revenue - Audio Edition | Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Your Career

What if the real key to your business growth isn’t another marketing tactic—but building the right community around you? In this episode, I sit down with Gina Bianchini, CEO of Mighty Networks, to uncover the true difference between networking (which often feels transactional) and community (which sparks transformation). We explore why being the hub of a community can exponentially grow your influence, create opportunities, and bring lasting value to everyone involved. Gina walks us through the exact framework for building a community that’s vibrant, self-sustaining, and deeply rewarding, whether it’s in-person or online. From identifying your audience’s biggest transitions, to creating a clear “big purpose,” to structuring monthly themes, weekly rhythms, and daily engagement prompts—this conversation is packed with practical, actionable advice that will change the way you think about relationships in business forever. Topics We Cover in This Episode: 9:22 — How being the organizer instantly elevates your professional value 15:21 — Why people in transition are the most motivated members of any community 20:58 — The “best year ever” formula for defining your community’s purpose 24:24 — Three structural elements that keep your community active without burning you out 29:24 — The one question format that sparks instant engagement 37:11 — How software can act as your “co-host” and make connections happen 43:12 — Why now is the time to create a branded community experience If you’ve ever wished for deeper, more meaningful business relationships—or wondered how to turn your network into a powerful, value-generating asset—this episode is your blueprint. Press play and discover how to build a thriving community where everyone wins, and your leadership naturally shines. Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check out Mighty Networks

What if the key to your biggest breakthroughs isn’t some giant leap—but a series of small, curious steps? In this episode, I sit down with Anne-Laure Le Cunff—neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and author of Tiny Experiments to explore how we can apply an experimental mindset to business development, relationship building, and even leadership. We dive into how tiny, purposeful actions can produce big, surprising results, and why perfectionism is often what keeps high-achievers stuck. Whether you're in sales, consulting, or leading a team, this conversation will help you shift your approach to growth—and make it infinitely more adaptable, creative, and human. We unpack Anne-Laure’s PACT framework (Purposeful, Actionable, Continuous, Trackable), talk about linear vs. looped thinking, and explore how high performers can actually start smaller to move further, faster. If you're ready to test, tweak, and grow smarter—not harder—this one’s for you. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why tiny experiments beat big, rigid plans (and how to run them) How to turn ambiguity and uncertainty into an advantage The PACT framework that makes “starting small” ridiculously actionable What metacognition is—and why elite performers swear by it How “working in public” accelerates learning and client trust The surprising link between psychological safety and team creativity Why outcome goals can trap you—and what to do instead The difference between chasing legacy and practicing generativity If this episode inspired you, grab a copy of Tiny Experiments and consider running your own experiment: what’s one tiny, meaningful action you can try this week? Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Grab a Copy of the Tiny Experiments Book Subscribe to Anne-Laure’s newsletter

Are you too busy to journal—or just not doing it the right way? In this episode, I sit down with the extraordinary Jo Franco—Netflix host, polyglot, entrepreneur, and journaling pioneer—to unpack the true power of journaling as a transformational tool for self-awareness, leadership, and productivity. If you’ve ever thought journaling was a fluffy “dear diary” ritual, think again. Jo brings science, soul, and strategy to the table, showing how even five minutes with the right prompt can unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum in your life and work. We dive into her personal journey—from being handed a journal as a kid to now leading global journaling workshops that change lives. Along the way, we explore how journaling helps you excavate your goals, align with your values, and become the person you actually want to be—not just the one society tells you to be. Whether you’re a seasoned high-achiever or brand new to the concept of journaling, this episode will give you the prompts, structure, and real-world inspiration to make this practice a game changer. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why journaling isn’t about documenting your day—but designing your life The surprisingly simple weekly routine that changed everything for me Jo’s go-to energy audit framework (and how to use it in under 5 minutes) How journaling helps uncover the real reason behind your goals The science-backed prompts that increase happiness, productivity, and memory Why rereading your journal entries is just as important as writing them How to use journaling to become a more impactful leader and partner The journaling method that builds instant depth in your team or relationship Ready to start writing your future self into existence? Head to JoClub.World to check out Jo’s free journaling 101 workshop and grab your starter kit. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some clarity and confidence. Resources Mentioned: Get Jo’s Journaling Starter Kit and Free Workshop Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Are you letting fear or friction hold you back from the conversations that matter most? In this episode, I sit down with Kwame Christian— host of the #1 negotiation podcast Negotiate Anything and creator of LinkedIn’s only official negotiation certificate—to explore how we can all get better at negotiation by doing it with more heart. Kwame breaks down his signature “Compassionate Curiosity” framework, a three-step method that helps you navigate any conversation—whether in business or life—with empathy, emotional intelligence, and strategic clarity. If you’ve ever struggled with “what to say when it’s hard to say it,” this episode is a must-listen. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The unexpected reason most negotiation training fails (and how to fix it) The one mental model that works for almost every tough conversation How to uncover someone’s real priorities—before offering solutions Why your tone matters more than your tactics A simple way to defuse tension in seconds How to know when it’s time to walk away (without burning a bridge) Be sure to follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn and check out his podcast Negotiate Anything for even more real-world tools. And if you want to start showing up differently in high-stakes conversations, start with compassion, curiosity, and this episode as your guide. Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Listen to the Negotiate Anything Podcast Connect with Kwame

What if your success didn’t just depend on what you do—but on how you work with people? In this episode, I sit down with Michael Bungay Stanier, author of How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, to uncover how the quality of our working relationships is the true game-changer in business. Whether you’re trying to repair a tricky client dynamic or elevate a good one into something exceptional, this conversation is packed with mindset shifts, practical frameworks, and one incredibly simple but powerful tool: the Keystone Conversation. We dive deep into how to create a Best Possible Relationship (BPR)—and why safe, vital, and repairable relationships are the secret sauce for long-term client retention, team morale, and professional fulfillment. Michael shares the five questions you can ask to build stronger foundations with clients (and colleagues), plus how to model bravery, curiosity, and generosity in ways that truly set you apart. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring more intentionality and impact into the way you collaborate, this is the episode to hit play on. Topics We Cover in This Episode: How one simple mindset shift can change the way you lead every client call Why safety is essential—but not enough—for meaningful collaboration The three hidden traits that define every Best Possible Relationship How to become “easy to work with” in a way that builds unshakable trust What a Keystone Conversation is—and why it’s your secret client-retention weapon Five powerful questions that unlock better communication and mutual respect What to do when a relationship goes sideways—and how to repair it with confidence Why modeling curiosity (instead of advice-giving) is a powerful differentiator If this conversation sparked something in you, now’s the time to take action. Think of one relationship that could use a reset—or a boost—and try just one of the questions Michael shared today. You’ll be amazed at what opens up. And if you want the full roadmap, grab a copy of How to Work with (Almost) Anyone and visit bestpossiblerelationship.com for bonus resources, free downloads, and a video example of the Keystone Conversation in action. Let’s start working better—one conversation at a time. Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! How to Work with Almost Anyone Best Possible Relationship Toolkit

Have you ever wondered why asking for what you want can feel so awkward—and why people say yes more often than we think? In this episode, I dive deep with Dr. Vanessa Bohns, an organizational behavior expert from Cornell University and the author of You Have More Influence Than You Think. Together, we unpack why influence is so much more than persuasion—and why it’s less about manipulation and more about authentic, everyday impact. We explore the psychological biases that make us underestimate our influence, the surprising power of simply asking face-to-face, and the crucial difference between perspective-taking and perspective-getting. Whether you’re a leader, a business developer, or simply looking to grow your positive influence, this conversation is packed with insights on building trust, making confident asks, and empowering others while avoiding the “ick” factor. Topics We Cover in This Episode: 3:05 — Why putting “positive” in front of influence might matter more than you think 6:45 — The 100-year legacy of How to Win Friends and Influence People and why it’s still relevant today 10:15 — Why “just ask” works and how face-to-face requests get 34x more yeses than emails 19:00 — How small, spontaneous asks can build authentic connections and why overthinking can kill momentum 25:20 — The hidden power of stating what you want and why it’s essential in building relationships 29:00 — The difference between perspective-taking and perspective-getting 38:00 — Why direct asks often outperform polished presentations and how to practice this skill 44:00 — How seeing, feeling, and experiencing influence can make you a more confident and effective leader If you loved this conversation with Vanessa Bohns, share the episode with a friend or colleague who could use a confidence boost—and don’t forget to subscribe for more actionable insights on mastering the art of positive influence! Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Connect with Vanessa Get a copy of Vanessa’s book, You Have More Influence Than You Think

What happens when an elite financial advisory firm embraces a "give to grow" mindset instead of the traditional hard-sell approach? In this episode, I sit down with Cannon Carr, CEO of CornerCap, to explore exactly that. Cannon takes us behind the scenes of how his expert-led team has used authenticity, generosity, and tailored business development strategies to drive remarkable growth—without ever feeling like they're "selling." We dig into how Cannon transformed his mindset, reshaped his firm's culture, and practically applied the GrowBIG and Give to Grow systems to reach entrepreneurs and small business owners on a meaningful level. From shifting away from “always be closing” to developing a truly integrated marketing strategy that leads with value, Cannon shares actionable insights you can apply today—whether you’re an advisor, consultant, or service-based entrepreneur. This conversation is loaded with real talk, tested tactics, and a refreshing take on sustainable business development. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The powerful mindset shift that helped Cannon grow without “selling” How giving more can lead to deeper relationships—and more revenue The biggest mistakes experts make when trying to grow their business How Cannon and his team created a seamless strategy from marketing to client conversations Ways to scale trust and credibility through content, without feeling salesy A sneak peek into the systems that helped transform an expert firm into a growth engine How to help others grow… and grow yourself in the process One simple tip Cannon says anyone can apply today to start seeing better results Tune in now to learn how a values-first, give-to-grow approach can help you stand out in a crowded market—while building a business you’re proud of. This isn’t theory—it’s a tactical, inside look at what’s working right now from someone who’s lived it.

What really gives a company an edge in a constantly changing world? In this episode, I sit down with the legendary David Teece—the man behind the most cited paper on strategic management and the creator of the “Dynamic Capabilities” framework. But he’s far more than an academic. David has built billion-dollar companies, challenged outdated economic models, and reshaped how we think about competitive advantage. We dive deep into how innovation, adaptability, and capabilities—not just cost efficiency—are the real drivers of enduring success. You’ll hear how David has simultaneously excelled in academia and business, what most economists get wrong about firms, and how his groundbreaking ideas help organizations not only survive disruption but thrive in it. Whether you're leading a startup or steering a global company, this conversation will open your mind to what truly powers sustainable growth. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why most strategy models miss the mark in today's innovation-driven world The hidden ingredient that allows companies to thrive amid uncertainty What “dynamic capabilities” really mean (and how to cultivate them) Why David Teece believes traditional economics failed to explain real business success The surprising link between academic theory and billion-dollar execution How to rethink competitive advantage when everything around you is shifting If today’s conversation sparked new ideas or challenged your thinking, dive deeper into David Teece’s groundbreaking work by grabbing his book Dynamic Capabilities & Strategic Management: Organizing for Innovation and Growth on Amazon. And if you want to continue the discussion or explore collaboration opportunities, you can reach David directly at dteece@thinkbrg.com. Resources Mentioned: Purchase a Copy of Dynamic Capabilities & Strategic Management: https://a.co/d/g8Xo4uA Connect with David at dteece@thinkbrg.com Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

What if the secret to peak performance wasn’t grinding harder, but simply feeling better? In this episode of Real Relationships, Real Revenue, I sit down with the brilliant Ali Abdaal—doctor, YouTuber, author, and now productivity philosopher—to unpack the science and strategy behind Feel Good Productivity. We explore the idea that happiness isn’t a reward for success, but the engine that drives it. Ali breaks down how boosting energy, reducing stress, and infusing joy into your daily work can radically enhance both performance and satisfaction. If you’ve ever felt burned out, stuck, or like your business development efforts are a chore, this conversation might just flip everything you thought you knew about productivity. We also dive into the real-world applications of Ali’s ideas—from overcoming introversion in high-stakes networking to staying consistent with outreach when results seem far away. With his signature blend of science and story, Ali walks us through practical ways to make selling, leading, and even showing up to client events feel fun. This isn’t just a motivational chat—it’s a masterclass in rethinking how you work, sell, and grow. If you’re building a business, deepening client relationships, or just trying to stay sane while doing it all—tune in. You’re going to want to hear this. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The one question that can transform any task from draining to energizing Why feeling good before you get results might be your ultimate advantage A mindset shift that turns sales into service—and kills the sleazy feeling How Nobel Prize-winning physics and magic tricks both relate to business growth The 3 core "energizers" that power up your workday (and how to use them) The simple trick Ali used to stay consistent on YouTube Why pretending to be an actor might just be your new networking superpower If this episode lit a spark, imagine what could change if you started applying even one of these ideas today. Take a second to reflect—what’s one thing you could make more fun this week? And if you loved this conversation, don’t forget to share it with a colleague, grab a copy of Feel Good Productivity, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. We’re just getting started. Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check Out Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You: https://a.co/d/38WJQtT Follow Ali’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@aliabdaal Take a Look at Ali’s Website: https://aliabdaal.com/ Sign Up for Ali’s Newsletter: https://aliabdaal.com/newsletter/

What does it really take to stand out and succeed in a competitive market? In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies and mindset shifts that can elevate your brand and business. Our guest, Topaz Adizes, shares firsthand experiences, practical advice, and thought-provoking insights that challenge the status quo. From overcoming obstacles to leveraging hidden opportunities, this conversation is packed with golden nuggets you won’t want to miss. We discuss the power of storytelling in business, the importance of adapting to change, and how to build lasting connections with your audience. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or someone looking for that next level of growth, this episode will inspire you to take action. Get ready for an eye-opening discussion that might just change the way you think about success. Topics We Cover in This Episode: A mindset shift that can drastically change your results The secret to building brand loyalty that most people overlook How to turn setbacks into stepping stones for growth A hidden opportunity in your industry that you might be missing The role of storytelling in creating an unforgettable brand Why adaptability is your greatest asset in business How to make your audience feel truly connected to your message Want to learn more from Topaz and stay connected? Check out his work at topazadizes.com. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and let us know your biggest takeaway! Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Connect with Topaz

Have you ever let fear of failure, uncertainty, or judgment hold you back from going after what you truly want? In this episode, we dive into the principles of Wild Courage with author Jenny Wood. We break down three of the nine bold traits she explores in her book—how to be positively manipulative, obsessed, and shameless—to achieve extraordinary success in business and life. Jenny shares how a bold moment on a New York subway shaped her fearless approach, how she landed her dream job at Google, and the powerful strategies she now uses as an entrepreneur to build relationships, close deals, and grow her business. Get ready for a conversation packed with insights on influence, persistence, and self-advocacy. Whether you're looking to grow your business, advance your career, or simply take bigger, bolder steps in life, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to be fearless. Tune in now—this is your chance to learn how to apply Wild Courage to your own journey! Topics We Cover in This Episode: The surprising way fear of judgment holds us back—and how to push through it How to be “manipulative” in the best way possible (yes, really!) Why being obsessed isn’t a bad thing—it’s the key to success The strategy that got Jenny hired at Google (hint: she didn’t just apply online) How to use the "pencil sharpener" tactic to win people over and close deals The simple shift in your emails that makes people say “yes” faster Why your biggest missed opportunity might be not being shameless The unexpected power of asking the right question in a networking call If you’re ready to step up and take action, connect with Jenny and dive deeper into Wild Courage. Visit itsjennywood.com for free resources, follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram, and grab a copy of Wild Courage at wildcouragebook.com. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and tag us on social media—we’d love to hear how you're embracing Wild Courage! Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Email Jenny at: jenny@itsjennywood.com Buy Wild Courage at: https://a.co/d/5M4vFNy Download the resources Jenny mentioned at: itsjennywood.com/mo

Have you ever found yourself in a leadership role—whether guiding a team, driving a client project, or shaping a business—without an official title? In this episode, I sit down with leadership expert and author Kevin Eikenberry to unpack the power of flexible leadership and how it can drive both relationships and revenue. We explore how great leaders don’t just react—they lead with confidence, even in uncertain times. Kevin shares insights from his latest book, Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence, diving into how leadership is a verb, not a title, and how adaptability is the key to long-term success. We cover everything from defining a clear vision to leading through uncertainty and creating buy-in with your team. Kevin’s practical, real-world strategies will help you navigate change, communicate effectively, and inspire action—even when the future feels unpredictable. If you’re ready to step into leadership with confidence, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss! Topics We Cover in This Episode: The surprising truth about leadership (and why it has nothing to do with your job title) The biggest mistake leaders make when setting a vision—and how to avoid it Why uncertainty isn’t your enemy—and how to turn it into an advantage How to adapt when your plans are blown up a week after you make them The “IKEA Effect” and why it’s the secret to getting your team fully bought in The one leadership practice you should be doing every single month (but probably aren’t) Why over-communicating is the key to trust—and how to do it without sounding repetitive A mindset shift that will completely change how you handle challenges in leadership Tune in now to discover how flexible leadership can help you navigate uncertainty, inspire action, and build lasting success. Resources Mentioned: Kevin’s Gift to Listeners Kevin’s new book, Flexible Leadership Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Are your team meetings draining energy rather than fueling success? What if there was a way to make every meeting engaging, productive, and even enjoyable? In this episode, I sit down with executive coach Joe Hudson, whose unique approach to leadership and team dynamics has transformed countless organizations. Joe shares powerful insights on how to build an aligned, high-performing team culture, structure decision-making for maximum impact, and redefine what it means to run an effective meeting. We dive into the core principles that make teams thrive, from fostering authentic relationships to challenging the status quo. Joe unpacks why most meetings fail, how leaders unknowingly sabotage efficiency, and the secret to making meetings a powerful driver of business growth. Whether you’re leading a team internally or managing client relationships, this episode will leave you rethinking how you structure conversations, make decisions, and cultivate a winning culture. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The surprising metric that determines whether a meeting is truly effective Why most companies are unknowingly wasting massive amounts of time—and how to fix it The counterintuitive leadership habit that builds deeper trust and stronger teams How to instantly improve team cohesion using a simple but overlooked principle The secret behind “five-star meetings” and why they drastically improve company performance A powerful (but easy-to-implement) strategy to ensure your meetings drive real results The #1 mistake leaders make when trying to foster alignment—and what to do instead How to use strategic tension to supercharge both internal teams and client relationships Ready to transform the way you lead and make every meeting count? Don’t let another unproductive conversation drain your team’s potential. Tune in now to learn Joe’s game-changing strategies and start implementing them today. If you found this episode valuable, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your team. For more insights and resources, check out Joe’s work at The Art of Accomplishment—because leadership should be both effective and fulfilling. Resources Mentioned: Joe’s website: https://www.artofaccomplishment.com Joe’s podcast: https://www.artofaccomplishment.com/podcast Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Is workplace flexibility the key to retaining top talent? In this episode, I sit down with Manar Morales, CEO of the Diversity & Flexibility Alliance and author of The Flexibility Paradigm, to tackle one of the biggest challenges leaders face today—how to make workplace flexibility work for everyone. As businesses navigate hybrid environments, employee retention struggles, and shifting cultural expectations, Manar shares why flexibility isn’t just a policy—it’s a business imperative. We explore how flexibility drives productivity, engagement, and retention while debunking common myths that hold leaders back from embracing it. Through a five-step framework, we break down what organizations, teams, and individuals can do to implement sustainable, high-impact flexibility strategies. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance business needs with employee well-being, this episode is a must-listen! Topics We Cover in This Episode: The unexpected why behind successful workplace flexibility A common mistake leaders make that drives top talent away How to structure flexibility so that it benefits both employees and businesses The overlooked role of co-creation in designing flexible work models Why some flexibility policies fail—and how to make sure yours doesn’t A thought-provoking question that will reshape how you approach workplace culture How flexibility can be the secret weapon for long-term competitive advantage Workplace flexibility is not just a buzzword—it's a vital strategy for driving business success and retaining top talent. If you’re ready to dive deeper into the topic, be sure to pick up Manar Morales’ book The Flexibility Paradigm here. For more insights on how to create a flexible workplace that benefits both employees and businesses, visit the Diversity and Flexibility Alliance website at dfalliance.com. You can also connect with Manar directly via email at manar@dfalliance or on LinkedIn at Manar Morales. Resources Mentioned: The Flexibility Paradigm: https://www.amazon.com/Flexibility-Paradigm-Productivity-Profitability-Possibility/dp/1647125308 Email Manar: manar@dfalliance Connect with Manar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manar-morales-1800a37/ Diversity and Flexibility Alliance: https://dfalliance.com Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

How do you build real relationships that drive revenue and open doors to new opportunities? In this episode, I sit down with business development powerhouse Jim Ries to break down the art of strategic networking, collaboration, and event-driven growth. Jim isn’t just talking theory—he’s in the trenches, creating partnerships, hosting innovative events, and helping professionals develop a book of business that actually delivers results. We dive into his top three strategies for making connections that matter. Jim also reveals the hidden power of event partnerships and why most networking efforts fall flat. If you’ve ever struggled to get a prospect to return your call or wondered how to stand out in a crowded market, this episode is packed with information you can put into action right away. Topics We Cover in This Episode: A fresh approach to networking that eliminates awkward small talk The secret to creating events people actually want to attend How to turn casual connections into long-term business relationships The #1 mistake professionals make when trying to grow their network A simple strategy to get in front of more high-value prospects Why traditional networking fails—and what to do instead How to leverage partnerships to multiply your reach effortlessly If you enjoyed this conversation and want to connect with Jim, reach out to him via email at jries@offitkurman.com or find him on LinkedIn. And if you found value in this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use these insights! Resources Mentioned: Connect with Jim on LinkedIn Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Think you’re either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you’re closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family. This isn’t your standard “how-to” guide. Alison’s research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate Why humor isn’t about being funny—but about finding the fun Alison’s favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you’ll want to try out immediately. Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check out Alison’s website Alison’s Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves

What does it take to truly excel under pressure, build an unbeatable team, and achieve your goals? In this episode, I sit down with Rich Diviney, retired Navy SEAL officer and author, to uncover the secrets behind human performance and team dynamics. Rich shares his insights on the attributes that determine success, how to identify them in ourselves and others, and what separates good performers from exceptional ones. We dive into the profound difference between skills and attributes, the power of humility, and how to leverage resilience and perseverance in both life and business. Whether you're striving to grow your business, lead a high-performing team, or simply become the best version of yourself, this episode will keep you moving forward. Tune in and find out what it really takes to thrive in uncertain and challenging environments. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The difference between skills and attributes—and why one matters more under pressure The essential attribute for bouncing back after setbacks Why humility is the secret weapon of high-performing teams How to focus only on what you can control and avoid the trap of overthinking The surprising link between your identity and your performance Why perseverance without resilience can lead to burnout The Navy SEAL approach to breaking down overwhelming challenges A quick tool to master compartmentalization and stay focused under stress Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Jonny Miller’s Episode on Nervous System Mastery Henning Streubel’s Episode on Quickly Processing Setbacks Check out Rich’s Company’s Website Special code for 15% off the assessment: REALRELATIONSHIPS15

Have you ever wished your team would come to you with solutions instead of problems? In this episode, I sit down with Dominic Ashley-Timms , co-author of The Answer is a Question, to discuss how a simple shift in how you engage with your team can save you time, build confidence in others, and transform your impact from manager to leader. Dominic shares a groundbreaking method of “operational coaching” that replaces reactive solutions with questions that unlock potential. Drawing on years of research and proven results, Dominic explains how this powerful method can free up 20-50% of your time—so you can focus on what really matters, whether it's growth targets, client relationships, or innovation. We break down Dominic’s “STAR Model,” a proven framework to stop, think, ask, and get results. Plus, Dominic shares some of the most provocative questions you can ask to change context, challenge barriers, and unleash your team’s ability to solve their own problems. If you’re ready to transform how you lead, this episode will give you the tools to engage differently and achieve more—without working harder. Topics We Cover in This Episode: How to save 20-50% of your time as a leader Why solving your team’s problems for them is holding everyone back How the STAR model turns everyday conversations into coaching moments The simple question that boosts commitment and follow-through Why “low-power” questions are your secret leadership blind spot What happens when you challenge your team’s assumptions with a question If you want to dive deeper into Dominic’s transformative approach, check out his book, The Answer is a Question. To take it even further, explore starmanager.global here. Don’t miss this opportunity to reshape how you lead, engage your team, and free up time for what truly matters! Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Have you ever wondered what really makes professional relationships thrive? In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of building meaningful connections with Jason Levin, author of Relationships to Infinity. Together, we unpack why so many people say “Let’s keep in touch” but rarely follow through—and explore actionable ways to break that cycle. Jason shares the secrets of leveraging dormant ties, cultivating authentic networks, and creating consistent habits that make relationships flourish. Curious about how relationships can shape your ceiling of success? Tune in to discover the surprising, often overlooked truths behind nurturing your network and why it's never too late to start. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why “Let’s keep in touch” might be the most misleading phrase in networking—and how to fix it The science behind dormant ties and how they can open unexpected doors A simple, one-sentence strategy to instantly reignite old connections How guilt and discomfort hold you back—and the surprising ways to overcome them The underestimated value of sharing memories in strengthening relationships Why ambiverts might have the ultimate networking superpower The role of gratitude in building lasting connections—and how it benefits you, too A practical approach to networking events that eliminates the “icky” feeling Ready to take your relationship-building skills to the next level? Connect with Jason Levin at ReadySetLaunch.net or reach out directly via email at Jason@ReadySetLaunch.net, and be sure to grab a copy of his book, Relationships to Infinity. Resources Mentioned: Connect with Jason Grab Jason’s book Relationships to Infinity My favorite version of the "The Waiting" by Tom Petty Check out the surgeon general's white paper on loneliness Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

What if improvisation wasn’t just for comedy, but a game-changer for business, relationships, and even personal growth? In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Leonard, the creative force behind Second City's groundbreaking use of improv training in the corporate world. From recruiting comedy legends like Tina Fey and Steve Carell to co-authoring the acclaimed book Yes, And, Kelly shares stories, insights, and research-backed techniques that redefine how we approach collaboration, listening, and adaptability. You'll learn how to build trust, navigate ambiguity, and create powerful ensembles in business and life. Kelly also delves into the science behind improv. Whether you're prepping for a high-stakes pitch, navigating personal challenges, or just looking to sharpen your creative edge, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped. Topics We Cover in This Episode: The “Yes, And” philosophy and how it fosters creativity and collaboration A surprising FBI training exercise to build agility under pressure How to turn disagreement into a productive conversation with one simple phrase Stories of famous improvisers and the magic of ensemble thinking Why listening deeply is the ultimate superpower in high-stakes situations How improv can help heal anxiety and build resilience The unexpected ways improv transforms both individuals and organizations If you enjoyed this conversation with Kelly Leonard, dive deeper into his world! Check out my interview on Kelly’s podcast, Getting to Yes, And. Don’t miss his acclaimed book, Yes, And, a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their collaboration and creativity. Learn more about The Second City here, and tune into Kelly’s podcast here. You can also connect with Kelly directly on LinkedIn or follow his updates on X. Resources Mentioned: Listen to the Give to Grow episode on Kelly’s Podcast: ​​https://www.secondcity.com/network/mo-bunnell-give-to-grow Check out Kelly’s book, Yes, And: https://a.co/d/6f6lDYT The Seconde City: https://www.secondcity.com Subscribe to Kelly’s podcast: https://www.secondcity.com/network/category/getting-to-yes,-and-podcast Connect with Kelly on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-leonard-b8495047/ Connect with Kelly on X: https://www.twitter.com/KLsecondcity Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!