Voice of Influence

In this episode of The Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea Wenburg and Rosanne Moore take a deeper dive into the prior interview with Anna LeBaron, who discussed her experiences escaping a violent polygamist cult. They reflect on cult dynamics and the importance of personal agency, referencing historical and contemporary examples, both religious and secular. They also discuss themes like empathy, respect, and the psychological manipulation that sustains cult-like environments. The conversation emphasizes the moral courage required to break free from coercive control and the critical need for self-examination in personal beliefs. Mentioned in this Episode: 352: Escaping & Healing From a Violent Cult with Anna LeBaron & Ruth Wariner 353: Healing from Religious Abuse with Anna LeBaron Book: The Polygamist’s Daughter by Anna LeBaron Book: The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner Hulu Docuseries “Daughters of the Cult” 00:00 Introduction and Episode Recap 01:23 Revisiting Anna and Ruth's Story 03:18 Introducing Roseanne Moore 03:28 Understanding Cult Dynamics 11:23 Anna's Memoir: The Polygamist Daughter 23:23 Ervil LeBaron: The Mormon Manson 28:43 Acknowledging Manipulative Tendencies 29:55 Character and Charisma 32:10 The Daughters of the Cult Docuseries 36:05 Empathy and Compassion 39:59 Respect and Human Dignity 49:09 Blood Atonement and Fundamentalism 55:03 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Preview Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/354 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews Anna LeBaron, author and speaker, about her courageous journey of escaping the control and secrecy of her father's infamous polygamist cult. Anna shares the intense personal and spiritual challenges she endured, including abandonment, child labor, and sexual grooming. She discusses her memoir, 'The Polygamist's Daughter,' and her participation in the Hulu docuseries 'Daughters of the Cult.' Anna recounts her ongoing healing journey facilitated by therapy and trauma-informed practices. She talks about the importance of confronting one's past, repairing relationships, and the complexities of religious trauma. Anna also reveals her current academic pursuits and her hopes to teach seminary, writing her dissertation on spiritual formation intersected with religious trauma. This episode dives deep into personal growth, resilience, and the transformative power of sharing one's story. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:19 Anna's Background and Early Struggles 01:51 Journey of Healing and Overcoming Trauma 03:17 Writing the Memoir and Family Dynamics 08:03 Therapy and Personal Growth 17:48 Physical and Educational Transitions 19:35 Future Aspirations and Spiritual Formation 31:18 Leaving the Cult and Finding Agency 38:22 Family Relationships and Public Storytelling 45:52 Introduction to the Docu-Series 47:25 Dispelling Myths About Ervel's Children 49:12 Psychological Impact of Cult Life 52:14 Personal Struggles and Mental Health 56:09 Overcoming Agoraphobia 01:06:34 Spiritual Abuse and Healing 01:16:02 Deconstruction and Faith 01:21:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/353 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this special Remix episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, we revisit and remix episodes 7 and 8 with Anna LeBaron and Ruth Warner, two cousins who escaped violent polygamous cults founded by their fathers. The episode delves into their harrowing experiences, the bond they formed upon discovering their connection, and the healing journey that followed. They discuss their impactful memoirs, The Polygamist Daughter and The Sound of Gravel, and reflect on the challenges and triumphs of telling their stories. Highlighting themes of courage, healing, and finding your voice, this episode aims to inspire and empower listeners to overcome their own struggles. 00:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement 00:09 Background of Anna and Ruth's Family 01:11 The Violent History of the Polygamous Cult 02:01 Anna and Ruth's Escape and Reconnection 02:54 The Impact of Their Memoirs 04:57 Revisiting the 2017 Interview 05:35 The 2017 Interview Begins 06:37 Anna and Ruth's Personal Stories 08:20 The Emotional First Meeting 16:35 Healing Through Connection 37:02 Challenges of Sharing Their Stories 45:57 A Desperate Escape 46:47 Crossing the Border 48:26 Life After the Escape 49:05 Family Resistance and Social Media 50:21 Questioning the Past 50:45 Impact of Community and Family Reactions 51:23 Struggles with Self-Worth 52:12 Intuition and Abuse 53:31 Mother's Influence and Writing the Book 54:57 Challenges of Sharing the Story 55:48 Emotional Manipulation and Silence 57:05 Reading the Book to Her Mother 58:43 Conflicting Feelings About Family 01:04:56 Therapy and Healing 01:10:16 Finding Freedom and Voice 01:17:25 Advice for Those Feeling Trapped 01:24:13 The Power of Stories and Books 01:25:25 Mission and Message 01:28:59 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/352 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode Andrea interviews Georgi Enthoven, a distinguished alumna of UC Berkeley and Harvard Business School. Georgi discusses her new book, 'Work That's Worth It: The Ambitious Professional's Guide for a High-Impact, High-Reward Career,' aimed at helping individuals design careers that are fulfilling both personally and globally. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of writing a book, the importance of finding work that aligns with both personal and societal good, and the nuanced understanding of compensation. They also explore the roles of organizational leadership in creating meaningful work environments and discuss strategies to relieve career choice pressures on young adults. Georgie shares insights on the power of experimentation, understanding personal gifts, and the significance of mentorship. The episode concludes with a challenge to listeners to embrace positive conflict as a means to facilitate significant change in the workplace. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:49 The Journey of Writing a Book 02:14 Defining 'Worth It' in Work 04:40 Understanding Compensation Beyond Money 07:06 Finding Meaning and Contribution in Work 09:19 Navigating Career Choices and Education 11:44 The Importance of Experimentation in Early Career 16:01 Aligning Personal and Organizational Missions 27:47 Thinking Big and Making an Impact 30:46 The Role of Mentorship 35:38 Final Thoughts and Farewell Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/351 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Dr. Carla Fowler, an MD, PhD, and elite executive coach. Dr. Fowler shares her journey from the medical field, where she spent nine years earning her MD and PhD, to becoming a leading executive coach. She delves into how her medical training taught her valuable lessons about performance, resilience, and decision-making, which she now uses to help top leaders achieve their goals. The discussion also touches upon the principles of performance science, the importance of mindset and physiological health, and strategies for overcoming resistance both internally and externally. Dr. Fowler's insights provide a unique perspective on how to integrate high-performance practices with a balanced, human-centered approach. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carla Fowler 00:50 Journey from Medicine to Coaching 03:19 Insights on Performance and Decision Making 10:10 Defining Performance Science 13:16 Wellness and High Performance 21:13 Balancing Humanity and Performance 25:31 The Feeling of Missing Something 26:11 The Concept of Agency 26:32 Making a Difference 26:53 Human Desire for Impact 27:55 Setting Objectives and Goals 28:30 Building Skills and Overcoming Challenges 30:13 The Importance of Purpose in Stress 33:46 Empowerment and Shaping the Future 38:11 Overcoming Resistance 41:53 Coaching for High Performance 46:24 Final Thoughts and Advice Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/350 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this special episode, Andrea celebrates the eighth anniversary of the Voice of Influence podcast and announces significant changes for the upcoming year. Andrea explains the shift in focus from message-driven leadership to a broader scope of leadership development and dynamic engagement. The episode reveals a new podcast logo, symbolic branding, and an updated subtitle: 'Action Oriented - Help Shape the Future.' Andrea also introduces a listener engagement form to gather feedback and success stories, emphasizing the importance of human agency amidst evolving AI technologies. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to shaping the future through your voice and actions. Listener Feedback Form - Share how you see people shaping the future - and/or ask a question for Andrea and guests to address on the show! 00:00 Welcome to the Voice of Influence Podcast 00:09 Celebrating Eight Years: A Look Back 00:42 Evolving Focus: From Message-Driven Leadership to General Leadership 02:23 New Look and Feel: Introducing Our Updated Logo 03:13 Dynamic Engagement: The Core Model Explained 05:16 Shaping the Future: The Role of Human Dignity and AI 07:13 New Subtitle: Action-Oriented Help Shape the Future 12:30 Listener Engagement: Your Voice Matters 16:11 Conclusion: Let's Shape the Future Together

Jamie Schwartzman, Chief Creative Strategist and founder of Flux Branding, shares his insights on the intricacies of branding and the importance of change. With over 25 years of experience, Jamie discusses his approach to crafting authentic brand stories, the impact of technology on branding, and the ethical considerations in modern communications. Featured on Gordon Ramsay’s 'Food Stars,' Jamie talks about his experience on the show, as well as personal challenges like the devastating fires in Los Angeles. He delves into Flux Branding's IDEA method (Ignite, Distill, Energize, Activate), collaboration in a virtual workspace, and the significance of brand identity during times of change. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/348 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea discusses the World Economic Forum's 2025 job skills report, outlining the top 10 skills needed for future workplaces. These include cognitive flexibility, data analysis, emotional intelligence, and more. Andrea highlights how their leadership programs focus on nurturing these skills, save for technology, which they encourage embracing. She introduces their new resource, the 'Set Up for Success at Work' mentorship guide, aimed at fostering intentional mentor-mentee relationships. This guide, available on Amazon, is designed to help companies implement cost-effective mentorship programs, encourage continuous learning, and bridge generational gaps in the workplace. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/347 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Kevin Eikenberry, Chief Potential Officer of the Kevin Eikenberry Group. Kevin discusses his 30-year journey in leadership development and his latest book, 'Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence.' They explore how Kevin's role has evolved over the years, the importance of understanding the context in leadership, and strategies for dealing with uncertainty. Kevin explains the concept of flexors, which helps leaders find the best approach amid varying situations, promoting a nuanced perspective on leadership. They also touch upon building confidence and collaboration within teams and the importance of intentional actions. Kevin shares insights into mindset, skill set, and habit set to help leaders adapt and thrive in uncertain times. www.KevinEikenberry.com/gift Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/346 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Andrea Wenburg, founder and CEO of Voice of Influence, provides an overview of what to expect when contacting her organization for assistance through their training programs, coaching, and strategy services. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the problem or opportunity, the costs involved, and the necessity of investing time, effort, and resources into effective solutions. Using a personal anecdote about a persistent plumbing issue resolved by a skilled plumber, Andrea illustrates Voice of Influence's commitment to identifying and addressing the root of clients' problems. Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out for a detailed conversation to determine if Voice of Influence’s services align with their needs. Email Andrea directly: andrea@voiceofinfluence.net. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/345 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Andrea hosts Dr. Karalee Picard, an expert in organizational and leadership dynamics with a background in defense intelligence, on the Voice of Influence podcast. In this episode, Karalee discusses the importance of creating workplace cultures where every voice is heard, a topic she explores in her upcoming book, 'Stand Up. Don't Stand Alone.' They delve into Picard's experiences in the Navy and US Strategic Command, highlighting the necessity of holding each other accountable and fostering open communication. Karalee shares insights from her workshops designed to build culture from the bottom up and the challenges of implementing such initiatives in bureaucratic environments. The conversation also touches on the resistance to change, the role of middle managers, and the importance of adapting organizational cultures to accommodate new team members. Insightlc.org Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/344 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea interviews Dr. Don Egle, Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing, and Communications at Letourneau University and the Founder and CEO of the Kyer Group, a brand and leadership coaching company. With over 25 years of C-suite experience, Dr. Egle discusses the importance of preparation, clarity, and authenticity in crisis communications, and how empathy and slowing down can make a significant difference. Dr. Egle also delves into his dissertation on joyful leadership, explaining how joy, seen as a deep-rooted mindset and choice, impacts leadership and organizational success. Additionally, Dr. Egle emphasizes the intersection of brand and leadership, advocating for a clear and authentic promise. He offers insights on how Letourneau University navigates the evolving landscape of higher education by staying true to its mission and creating distinct value for its students. LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/donegle/ X | @DonEgle Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/343 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Scott Trumpolt, founder of Trumpolt Compensation Design Solutions, shares insights on compensation planning, HR leadership, and rewards strategies in this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast. With over 30 years of expertise and a global perspective, Scott discusses the importance of aligning compensation with organizational success, the need for transparency in pay structures, and how career development is linked to compensation. He also touches on the significance of employee engagement, the evolving role of HR, and the impact of emerging trends like artificial intelligence and minimum wage increases. Listeners will gain valuable advice on how employees can advocate for their compensation and how companies can better utilize HR as a strategic partner. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/342 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Andrea welcomes Mr. Eric Seacrest, former CEO of a newspaper company, to the Voice of Influence podcast. After selling the family newspaper business, Eric transitioned to a rewarding career as the executive director of Mid Nebraska Community Foundation in 2001. Throughout the episode, Eric shares his experiences from leading a family newspaper business for generations to spearheading philanthropic initiatives. He talks about his deep-rooted passion for community, the importance of giving everyone a voice, handling conflicts in community projects, navigating industry changes, and the evolving landscape of media and charitable giving. Eric emphasizes the significance of showing up, making a difference, and the joy derived from contributing positively to society. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of how one man's journey of impact can inspire others to find their voice and contribute to their communities. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/341 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Andrea Wenburg from Voice of Influence discusses the impact of others on your decision-making process. She emphasizes the importance of listening, reflecting, and acknowledging the influence of others' words on your thoughts and actions. Wenburg explores the value of validating others' perspectives, even if you do not ultimately agree with their suggestions, and highlights how this validation can encourage future sharing and diverse viewpoints. She underscores that embracing others' input is a gift that strengthens communication and fosters mutual respect. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/340 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea interviews Mike Picard, the Executive Director and Head Coach for Envy Volleyball Club. Mike shares his journey from being a volleyball parent to establishing a successful non-profit volleyball club. He discusses his coaching philosophy focused on building confidence and strength in young players, the rapid growth of Envy Volleyball Club, and the impact of creating a positive and supportive community for young athletes. Mike also highlights the importance of passion and investment in making a lasting influence. Mike Picard is a Navy veteran, holds an MBA, and is the owner of American Structures Company. He was named USA Volleyball Youth Coach of the Year in 2022. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/339 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, Andrea Wenburg interviews Samantha Pesek, a 2008 Olympic silver medalist and NBC women's gymnastics analyst for the 2024 Olympics. Samantha shares her journey from a young gymnast motivated by her athlete parents and a competitive household to achieving her Olympic dreams. She discusses the intense mental and physical challenges of gymnastics, the importance of confidence, and her transition into sports broadcasting. Samantha also talks about founding Beam Queen Bootcamp to empower young gymnasts and the critical role of parents in nurturing their children's aspirations. This episode explores themes of resilience, mental health, confidence building, and the power of positive self-talk. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/338 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Respect is the foundation of effective leadership, strong organizational culture, and employee well-being. But what does respect truly mean, and how can leaders create an environment where employees feel valued and empowered? In this episode, Andrea interviews Kristie Rogers, Assistant Professor of Management at Marquette University and researcher on respect and identity at work. Kristie shares insights from her groundbreaking research, including her work with Televerde—a company employing incarcerated women in Arizona—to explore how respect impacts performance, retention, and personal growth. Join Andrea and Kristie for a deep dive into the concepts of owed respect (respect granted to all employees) and earned respect (respect based on individual contributions), and discover actionable ways to foster respect in any organization. Key Topics Discussed: Kristie's Path to Researching RespectThe Importance of RespectOwed vs. Earned RespectLessons from TeleverdePractical ApplicationsRespect and Voice Episode Links: Harvard Business Review ArticleDo Your Employees Feel Respected?Learn More About TeleverdeTeleverde WebsiteEpisode Transcriptvoiceofinfluence.net/336 Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/337 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, Andrea shares an inspiring in-person interview with Alice Atemo, the founder of Overcoming Faith Schools in Western Kenya. The episode provides an in-depth look at Alice's story, her humanitarian efforts to rescue and educate vulnerable children, and the challenges and triumphs faced along the way. Andrea and Alice discuss how the school started, its growth over the years, and its current needs, including the push for a medical van and further support for the children. Listeners are encouraged to get involved by visiting tucklets.org to support this noble cause. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/336 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

In this episode, Andrea Wenburg shares how you can find your inner voice in the midst of a busy schedule. She discusses how scattered leaders can create confusion and anxiety within a team, emphasizing the need for leaders to process their thoughts in silence before sharing them. Andrea introduces the VOICE model, which includes Vision, Offer, Initiative, Curiosity, and Empathy, as a framework for intentional and powerful communication. She also provides a practical exercise of asking three questions after meetings to help individuals find their inner voice and communicate with more influence. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/335 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact