IDEAS+LEADERS

In episode 286 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Thanos Diacakis, Software Delivery Coach, Fractional CTO, and business growth expert. With more than 25 years in software development, Thanos has worked with startups and global tech companies like Uber, where he led the integration of the JUMP Bikes acquisition, scaling the platform to 45,000 vehicles and over 2 million monthly trips. We explore why so many organizations struggle to scale despite strong teams, and how misalignment between business leaders and engineering creates hidden bottlenecks, technical debt, and burnout. Thanos shares how leaders can communicate more clearly with tech teams to increase speed, quality, and outcomes. In this episode, we discuss: How to align business goals with engineering reality Why “doing Agile” often fails to deliver results The hidden cost of technical debt and quick fixes How leaders can spot and fix real bottlenecks in delivery Tune in for a grounded, practical conversation on scaling technology teams without chaos. You can connect with Thanos here: Thanos Diacakis' infrequently updated page Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 285 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Katy McFee, executive coach and founder of Insights to Action. After 18 years in biotech and tech, driving nine-figure revenue while repeatedly being passed over, Katy cracked the code, landed a VP role, and was soon recruited as an EVP. Today, she helps high-performing women do the same without burning out or waiting for permission that never comes. We talk about why so many brilliant women stay stuck at Director level, why the issue is rarely skills and almost always perception, and how small, strategic shifts can completely change how leadership sees you. In this episode, we discuss: Why high performers get overlooked despite strong results How perception shapes promotion decisions more than competence What it means to move from invisible to influentia How to advance even when DEI support is missing When it’s time to leave the room and find one that fits Tune in for a bold, honest conversation about visibility, power, and stepping into leadership on your own terms. You can connect with Katy here Get Promoted To Executive Leadership - Insights to Action Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 284 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Stefan Feuerstein, founder of ABC Delegation, author of A-B-C Delegation: The Manager’s Guide to Effective Delegation, and one of Oprah’s SuperSoul 100 leaders. With experience leading humanitarian operations and managing teams of thousands, Stefan brings a rare, real-world perspective on leadership under pressure. We explore why leaders burn out not because they work too hard, but because they become bottlenecks, confusing delegation with task dumping. Stefan shares how his A-B-C Delegation framework helps leaders know when to stay involved, when to be informed, and when to step aside so teams can truly step up. In this episode, we discuss: Why delegation is not optional, but central to leadership How poor delegation creates burnout and stalls organizations How to systematize decision-making without micromanaging What it really means to empower teams and scale impact Tune in for a practical, eye-opening conversation on delegation as a force multiplier in modern leadership. You can connect with Stefan here A-B-C Delegation: Effective Delegation Tools and Strategies for Successful Management Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Anthony Cudjo, Founder of Human Optimization 3.0 (H3O), performance expert, and widely known as the “Teacher of Teachers.” With more than 37 years of experience in business consulting, executive coaching, NLP, and professional athletics, Anthony has helped thousands of leaders and individuals unlock their full physical, mental, and emotional potential. We explore what it truly means to optimize the human experience, from mastering anxiety and dissolving limiting beliefs to tapping into the deeper intelligence encoded in our DNA. Anthony breaks down the H3O framework, the three power centers that shape every decision we make, and the daily practices that help people step into a more powerful, purposeful version of themselves. In this episode, we discuss: What it means to “crack the code” of human optimization How to harmonize spirit, mind, and body for lasting transformation Why reconnecting with your Divine Intelligence changes everything How leaders can activate their potential and elevate others 🎧 Tune in for an energizing, transformative conversation about personal mastery, human potential, and the mechanics of becoming your most powerful self. You can connect with Anthony here: Website: https://urh3o.com Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Sid Jashnani, founder of Rekruuto, Certified EOS Implementer®, and holdco entrepreneur. Sid scaled his first company from $4M to $35M after transforming the way he communicated, delegated, and aligned his team. Today, he helps founders and leadership teams create clarity, accountability, and empowered cultures using the Entrepreneurial Operating System®. We dive into why communication breaks down inside growing organizations, what leaders misunderstand about delegation, and how simple rhythms can shift a team from chaos to ownership. Sid also shares the key lessons he learned while transitioning from a directive leader to an empowering one. In this episode, we discuss: Why leaders struggle to communicate expectations clearly How to move from “do as I say” to true team ownership The Delegation Ladder and how to use it Communication rhythms that build alignment and reduce firefighting Lessons from scaling a business from $4M to $35M How structure and empathy work together in great leadership 🎧 Tune in for a practical, grounded conversation about clarity, leadership growth, and building teams that actually take ownership. You can connect with Sid here: Sid Jashnani - London Based Certified EOS® Implementer | HoldCo Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Dain Dunston, acclaimed author of Being Essential and one of the most respected leadership advisors working today. For more than four decades, Dain has coached Fortune 100 executives, visionary founders, and CEOs on how to lead with presence, clarity, and radical self-awareness. We dive into what it truly means to shift from performing leadership to essential leadership - the kind rooted in connection, authenticity, and deep inner awareness. Dain shares his insights on sensing “what wants to happen,” leading with love instead of control, and finding grace under pressure in the most challenging moments of leadership. In this episode, we discuss: Why so many leaders unknowingly operate from performance instead of presence How to sense “what wants to happen” and why it changes decision-making How the best leaders stay grounded in moments of crisis Two simple questions that can transform your leadership instantly 🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful, grounded conversation about self-awareness, courage, and the kind of leadership the world needs today. You can connect with Dain here: Dain Dunston Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Katrena Friel, internationally recognized business mentor, award-winning author, and TEDx speaker. For more than 25 years, Katrena has helped entrepreneurs and leaders step into their Field of Excellence — positioning themselves with clarity, expanding their income streams, and building sustainable business ecosystems. We talk about what it truly means to become the expert in your industry, why so many entrepreneurs undervalue their brilliance, and how to create a business that not only grows but supports the way you want to live. In this conversation, we explore: Why expertise is not something you earn - it’s something you claim The most overlooked income streams in modern entrepreneurship How to build a business ecosystem that works even when you don’t The mindset blocks that stop leaders from stepping into visibility What it takes to turn ideas into income with confidence and speed 🎧 If you’re ready to elevate your influence, grow your revenue strategically, and stand out in your field with purpose and clarity, this episode will inspire you to think bigger about what’s possible. You can connect with Katrena here: www.becomingtheexpert.com.au Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Behdad “Bee” Jamshidi, founder of CJAM – The Marketing Connector. After vetting more than 1,068 marketing agencies over the past seven years, Bee discovered that 89% of them fail to deliver meaningful results. Today, he helps business owners avoid costly mistakes by matching them with vetted, trustworthy agencies that actually move the needle. We explore why hiring a marketing agency feels so overwhelming, why so many partnerships fail, and what leaders can do differently to protect their time, money, and momentum. Bee shares red flags to watch for, the essential questions every founder should ask before signing a contract, and how to build healthier, more effective agency relationships. In this episode, we discuss: Why 89% of agencies fall short and what the great ones do differently The biggest red flags business owners should notice immediately How to choose the RIGHT agency for your stage of growth The mindset shift founders need to build strong agency partnerships 🎧 Tune in for a practical and eye-opening conversation on hiring smarter, leading better, and building marketing systems that actually work. You can connect with Behdad here: https://cjammarketing.com Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Jennifer Powell, visionary CEO of JP Inc. and one of the earliest pioneers of the creator economy. Jennifer has spent more than two decades transforming influencers into globally recognized brands, leading groundbreaking licensing deals and product launches for icons like Chiara Ferragni, Rumi Neely, Sincerely Jules, and Danielle Bernstein.We dive into how creators can move beyond short-term partnerships and build long-term, scalable businesses through licensing their intellectual property. In this episode, we explore: How to turn influence and audience trust into real, scalable businesses What separates creators who become brands from those who stay stuck in brand deals Practical ways to diversify income beyond the algorithm The mindset shift every creator needs to succeed 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring and practical conversation about entrepreneurship, influencer leadership, and building a business that lasts. You can connect with Jennifer here Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Bruce Vojak, innovation strategist, author, and Founder of Breakthrough Innovation Advisors. With more than 40 years of experience across engineering, executive leadership, academia, and boardrooms, Bruce helps mature companies break out of stagnation and build lasting resilience. We dive into why innovation feels so difficult for established organizations — and why so many default to cost-cutting instead of the strategic renewal they actually need. Bruce breaks down the myths surrounding innovation, the fears that silently shape decision-making, and what leaders can do to create cultures that support experimentation and long-term thinking. In this episode, we discuss: • Why mature companies struggle with innovation • How alignment and simple processes make innovation manageable • The power of “innovation exemplars” inside organizations • Why innovation doesn’t require massive budgets • How listening to customers can spark meaningful breakthroughs • What leaders can do today to start renewing their company’s future 🎧 Tune in for a practical and energizing conversation about innovation, leadership, and building companies that evolve instead of stagnate. You can connect with Bruce here: https://www.breakthrough-innovation-advisors.com/bruce-vojak/ Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Suzanne Roberts, transformational speaker, facilitator, and founder of UnifyingSolutions. Suzanne has spent more than four decades helping leaders and organizations create sustainable, systemic change, and is the creator of Polarity System Design™ – a methodology that helps people reclaim their inner capacity, lead with clarity, and design cultures rooted in purpose and equity. We explore what it really means to lead from the inside out – how unresolved patterns, unprocessed experiences, and constant “busy-ness” shape the way we show up as leaders, and how we can reconnect with a deeper source of energy, purpose, and wholeness. Suzanne also shares insights from her upcoming book and documentary, It’s Deeper Than That: Pathway to a Vibrant, Purposeful Life, and her new leadership program, The Great Reconnection. In this episode, we discuss: • What the self-renewing energy source within each of us really is – and how to access it • Why leaders feel “something is missing” even when life looks successful from the outside • How unresolved trauma and childhood experiences show up in leadership and decision-making • The role of somatic work and energy systems in healing and sustainable leadership • Signs that a team or organization is disconnected – and how to begin repairing trust and culture • Why reconnection is the key leadership skill for the future of work 🎧 Tune in for a deep, grounded conversation about inner clarity, healing, and creating more humane, life-giving cultures at work. You can connect with Suzanne here: https://www.unifyingsolutions.com Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 275 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Philip Atkinson, leadership coach, organizational transformation expert, beekeeper, and author of Bee Wise: 12 Leadership Lessons from a Busy Beehive. Philip blends his experience at global organizations like Novartis, Roche, Sanofi, and Publicis with the surprising wisdom of the beehive. Together, we explore what leaders can learn from the hidden workings of a busy hive — from decision-making and communication to purpose, learning, and culture. We discuss: • Why leaders should stop being “busy as a bee” • How 50,000 bees make unanimous decisions — and how teams can too • What can we learn from bees about clear communication If you’re a leader, manager, or entrepreneur looking for fresh, nature-rooted insights to build healthier teams and stronger organizations, this episode is for you. You can learn more about the project at https://beewisebook.com. Books can be bought at Amazon and in all book stores. ALL proceeds go to the charity, Bees For Development. Contact Philip Atkinson at Philip@Hive-Logic.com Or https://hive-logic.com Or on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/philipatkinsonhivelogic Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 274 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Anna Tran, strategic PR consultant and co-founder of Level Up With Anna PR. Anna has helped entrepreneurs, experts, and brands land features in Forbes, Entrepreneur, top podcasts, TV segments, and influential niche publications - all through authentic, values-driven storytelling. We talk about what really moves the needle in PR, how to uncover the story angles the media actually cares about, and why long-term credibility matters more than short-term hype. In this conversation, we explore: The biggest misconceptions entrepreneurs have about PR How to find the parts of your story that journalists and audiences connect with Why authenticity and values matter now more than ever How to build a brand the media can’t ignore What to do after you land a major feature to maximize impact If you want to grow your visibility strategically, share your message confidently, and build long-term credibility in your industry, this episode is full of practical insights from someone who does PR differently. Connect with Anna here: Anna Tran | LinkedIn Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 273 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Eric Rogell, bestselling author, award-winning documentary filmmaker, and creator of the Lionhearted Leadership framework. Eric has spent more than two decades mentoring high-performing entrepreneurs and executives, helping them lead and communicate with courage instead of fear. We talk about the difference between performative leadership and genuine influence, why courage is the missing ingredient in modern workplaces, and how leaders can build cultures rooted in honesty, trust, and integrity. In this conversation, we explore: Why so many leaders operate from fear without realizing it How to build a Culture of Courage inside your team and organization The role of archetypes in communication and leadership growth What separates real mentorship from traditional coaching How courage transforms relationships both at work and at home If you want to lead with purpose, inspire deeper trust, or develop the courage to have real conversations, this episode will stay with you long after you listen. Connect with Eric here: Eric Rogell | LinkedIn Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 272 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by John Tarnoff, executive coach, career transition expert, TEDx speaker, and author of the best-selling Boomer Reinvention: How to Create Your Dream Career Over 50. After being fired 39% of the time during his decades in the entertainment industry, John reinvented his entire career at 50 - and today he helps mid- and late-career professionals build meaningful, sustainable careers despite ageism, a broken hiring system, and outdated workplace culture. We dive into what career reinvention really looks like in midlife and explore John’s contrarian but highly effective approach to landing better roles, building credibility, and attracting opportunities without traditional job searching. In this episode, we discuss: What career reinvention actually means after 40 or 50 How to stand out despite age bias and outdated hiring practices The “hidden job market” and how to tap into it Why your résumé won’t get you hired — and what will How to turn LinkedIn into a personal marketing engine Reframing networking so it becomes natural, useful, and enjoyable 🎧 Tune in for a refreshing conversation about confidence, clarity, and building the next chapter of your career with purpose and strategy. You can connect with John here: John Tarnoff MA/MSP | LinkedIn Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In the episode 271 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Samir Geepee, creator of The Clarity Game and host of the Leading with Clarity podcast. Samir helps managers and leadership teams build trust, collaboration, and coaching cultures through gamified learning, neuroscience-based coaching, and the power of great questions. We dive into what clarity truly means for modern leaders and explore how simple, powerful questions can transform teams, strengthen trust, and unlock better decision-making. Samir shares stories from facilitating thousands of leaders and explains how peer-driven coaching creates sustainable behavior change inside organizations. In this episode, we discuss: What clarity really looks like in leadership How to use questions to deepen trust and collaboration Why peer-coaching creates lasting behavior change How curiosity sparks innovation and better problem solving 🎧 Tune in for a practical and inspiring conversation about leadership, clarity, and building teams that think, connect, and create at a deeper level. You can connect with Samir here Samir Geepee (The Clarity Game™) | LinkedIn Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Tinsley Galyean, founder of Curious Learning and author of the upcoming book REFRAME: How Curiosity and Literacy Can Redefine Us. Tinsley shares his journey from asking a simple question - Can children learn to read without schools or teachers? - to leading a global movement using technology and curiosity to fight illiteracy. We explore what it means to reframe how we think, learn, and lead in a rapidly changing world. How curiosity drives innovation and leadership Lessons from bringing literacy to children worldwide What it takes to build purpose-driven organizations Why rethinking old systems starts with asking better questions 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about curiosity, leadership, and the power of reimagining what’s possible. You can connect with Tinsley here: https://www.curiouslearning.org/ Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Kym Insana, digital marketing expert, speaker, and founder of AlwaysOn Digital - a multimillion-dollar agency helping major brands connect with audiences through powerful digital campaigns. Kym shares her journey from New York’s top advertising agencies to building her own thriving business that gives her both freedom and fulfillment. We talk about redefining success, creating a company culture that values flexibility, and leading with purpose in a fast-changing digital world. How to build a business that supports your life - not the other way around Lessons from two decades in digital marketing Balancing growth, leadership, and family Empowering women to design their own version of success 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about freedom, leadership, and the courage to build on your own terms. You can connect with Kym here Digital Execution Partner: Your Path to Success Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In this episode of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by John Rood, founder and CEO of Proceptual, a company helping organizations implement responsible AI governance and workforce training. We dive into what AI upskilling really means and explore how companies can empower their teams to use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. John shares practical strategies for integrating AI tools into the workplace, how to measure the success of these initiatives, and what leaders need to know to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving landscape. What AI upskilling looks like in practice How to align AI adoption with company goals Common challenges and how to overcome them The future of AI governance and human–AI collaboration If you’re a business leader, HR professional, or entrepreneur curious about bringing AI into your organization without the chaos - this episode is for you. You can connect with John here Compliance Solutions for AI Regulations - Proceptual Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.

In episode 267 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Alex M.H. Smith - bestselling author of No Bullsht Strategy*, founder of Basic Arts, and trusted advisor to leaders who want to make strategy simple, bold, and powerful enough to inspire real action. Alex has worked with billion-dollar brands like Porsche and fast-moving startups worldwide, helping them escape me-too competition and uncover the only value their business can deliver. His no-fluff approach to strategy has built him a global audience on LinkedIn and YouTube, where he challenges leaders to think differently about what strategy truly means. In this dynamic conversation, we explore: Why most companies don’t actually have a strategy - and how to fix it The “Only, not Best” rule for escaping competition How to turn theory into bold, practical business moves Why chasing competitors or customers leads to mediocrity If you’re a business owner or leader ready to simplify your strategy, stand out from the crowd, and drive decisive action across your organization - this episode is packed with clarity and inspiration. You can connect with Alex here Home - Basic Arts Thank you for joining me on this episode of IDEAS+LEADERS. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and review so that more people can enjoy the podcast on Apple https://apple.co/3fKv9IH or Spotify https://sptfy.com/Nrtq.