Voice of Influence

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea welcomes Matt Allmand, Principal Chair at C12 Business Forums in Lincoln, Nebraska. Matt shares insights from his extensive career in manufacturing, including leading significant growth projects at the University of Nebraska and his family's manufacturing business, Allmand Brothers, Inc. He discusses the importance of strategic planning, lean manufacturing, and the impact of peer groups on leadership development. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/371 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work.

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea welcomes back Jennifer Romanowicz for an enriching conversation on managing change and leadership. Drawing from Jennifer's extensive experience as a military spouse and professional, they explore the complexities of supporting high-level military leaders while building one's own career. The discussion navigates topics such as the stress leaders face, maintaining integrity, shifting mindset during transitions, and finding personal agency amidst uncontrollable changes. Their dialogue offers valuable perspectives for both leaders and individual contributors, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the power of collective progress in times of disruption. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/370 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

Andrea welcomes Jennifer Romanowicz, owner and director of Fancy Pants Method, LLC, to the Voice of Influence podcast. Jennifer shares her insights on stress-free leadership, team effectiveness, and the concept of 'bird launching'—a positive approach to sending children into the world. They discuss the generational differences between Gen X and Gen Z, highlighting the importance of resilience, capacity building, and the role of mentorship in both personal and professional development. Jennifer emphasizes the need for leaders to foster open communication and innovation while allowing younger generations to learn and grow through experience. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/369 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, Andrea speaks with Ashley B. Stewart, founder and CEO of the Corian Group, a global consultancy specializing in leadership solutions. Ashley shares his journey from being a high school teacher to becoming an advisor to executives. He emphasizes the importance of inner transformation for effective leadership and discusses his work on racial consciousness and authentic power. He also shares insights on the significance of separating identity from roles and offers practical advice for individuals seeking to shape the future. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/368 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea hosts Kyle McDowell, a former Fortune 10 executive turned inspirational speaker, bestselling author, and leadership coach. They discuss Kyle's book, Begin with We, which offers a framework for addressing business dysfunction through a set of 10 principles that prioritize collective success ('We') over individual accolades ('I'). Kyle shares his personal journey from a focus on self-achievement to empowering others, resulting in transformative organizational change. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, the power of mentorship, the impact of sustainable culture, and how true leadership can counteract corporate apathy and foster engagement. Kyle's philosophy is underscored by real-life examples, including his experience with a once-challenging colleague who became one of his closest allies. The episode ultimately serves as a call to action for maintaining individuality and fostering a culture of excellence within any organization. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/367 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews John Gallagher, founder and CEO of Growing Champions, a faith-based executive coaching and performance consulting company. John discusses his journey of integrating faith into his business, the importance of living out core values, and his personal health transformation. He also shares insights on managing change, the significance of self-development, and methodologies for fostering a productive yet balanced work environment. Key topics include the impact of AI on leadership, the role of mentors, and strategies for effective team management and personal growth. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/366 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea engages with Jon Bassford, a seasoned operations professional and entrepreneur known for his powerful curiosity. Jon discusses how his inquisitive nature has driven his success from law school to leading operations for venture-backed startups and global nonprofits. He details his journey in refining organizational processes and emphasizes the importance of curiosity in leadership, as explored in his book, The Curious Leader: Unlocking Innovation, Empowering Teams, and Driving Change. Jon shares insights on how curiosity can help build a psychologically safe work environment, facilitate decision-making, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within organizations. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/365 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea speaks with Jeremy Williams, a certified Genos Emotional Intelligence practitioner and seasoned consultant. Jeremy discusses his journey from the property industry in the UK to becoming a leading advocate for emotional intelligence while living in France. He highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by hypergrowth companies, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the practical application of these skills. Jeremy also introduces his Peer Coaching four 60 Program, emphasizing the value of collective intelligence and peer mentorship. The conversation delves into the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of work, the critical role of emotional intelligence, and how to prepare the next generation for a rapidly evolving world. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/364 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews Dana Campbell, a transformative executive coach and strategic consultant with over 20 years of experience. Dana shares her unique career journey, starting with her early fascination with management consulting. The conversation touches on her role in helping leadership teams navigate complexity, enhance team dynamics, and foster resilience amidst challenges. Campbell discusses critical topics such as the importance of critical thinking, the integration of AI in the workforce, and the balance of compassion and bluntness in leadership. She also offers insights on the need for individualized mentoring, the role of mindfulness practices in handling stress, and the key skills leaders need for the future. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/363 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea interviews Peggy Sullivan, a renowned keynote speaker, author, and researcher who has inspired millions with her TEDx talk. Peggy discusses her 'busy busting' framework, which helps individuals overcome busyness to achieve peak performance without sacrificing wellbeing. She shares personal stories and insights, including a pivotal moment when she realized the negative impacts of chronic busyness. Peggy explains the importance of subtracting low-value activities, creating happiness rituals, and aligning actions with core values. She also provides actionable steps for individuals and leaders to implement her framework in their personal and professional lives to enhance productivity and fulfillment. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/362 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea engages with Elena Sarango-Muñiz, a leadership executive coach and emotional intelligence expert, to discuss her journey from Lima, Peru to becoming the founder and CEO of CroNGO. Elena shares her inspiring story of personal and professional transformation, encompassing her experiences in the United States and her journey in the hospitality and HR industries. They delve into Elena's coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, vision, and emotional intelligence in effective leadership. Elena encourages leaders to challenge their beliefs, reflect deeply, and adopt a holistic approach to personal and professional growth. This episode is filled with valuable insights into leadership development and the power of self-reflection. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/361 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, Andrea interviews Rod Kempkes, President and CEO of Boys Town, an organization dedicated to supporting at-risk children and families since 1917. Rod discusses Boys Town's comprehensive approach to care, from their innovative child and family care to their compassionate healthcare and ground-breaking research. He elaborates on their extensive impact, with over 192,000 children and families served in the U.S. in 2024 alone. Rod also shares a heartfelt personal journey of how he was drawn to the mission, his leadership philosophy emphasizing transparency and collaboration, and the importance of meeting people where they are. Listeners will gain insights into Boys Town's historic and ongoing commitment to changing lives, leadership development within the organization, and ways to get involved in making a meaningful impact. Boys Town: Saving Children - Healing Families - Building Communities Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/360 Mentorship Guide - This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work. 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!

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Steve Mann, a global entrepreneur, philanthropist, and mentor, whose extensive background spans continents from Africa to Southeast Asia. Steve discusses his early life on a potato farm in Idaho, his challenges with nearsightedness, and his voracious love for reading that fueled his dreams of seeing the world. He shares insights from his diverse career, including his work in organizational behavior and notable experiences with the White House. Central to Steve's message is the profound impact of storytelling in preserving legacies, connecting generations, and guiding future leaders. He emphasizes the importance of dreams, taking risks, and the powerful role of personal stories in teaching and leading. Steve also touches on his new book, Stories That Shape Us, aimed at helping individuals pass down their wisdom and experiences. Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/359 Mentorship Guide and Bonuses: Set Up for Success at Work 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.

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews Whitney Ferris, an internationally recognized coach, keynote speaker, and leadership expert. Whitney shares her journey from a traumatic childhood incident to overcoming sports injuries, and discusses how these adversities shaped her mindset and career. The conversation covers key topics such as executive presence, ruthless prioritization, and the importance of betting on oneself. Whitney offers insights on how to balance professional aspirations with personal fulfillment, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and self-belief. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 A Life-Changing Incident in New York 05:26 Impact of the Incident on Family and Career 08:50 Overcoming Adversity in Sports 13:54 Defining Identity Beyond Career 19:06 Leadership in Uncertain Times 26:20 Understanding Stress and Anxiety Tendencies 27:20 Strategies to Manage Stress and Anxiety 28:21 Finding Positivity in Adversity 32:22 The Importance of Executive Presence 38:03 Ruthless Prioritization for Success 45:57 The Role of Mentorship in Career Growth 48:20 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/358 Mentorship Guide and Bonuses: Set Up for Success at Work 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.

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Maranda Adams, co-CEO of Blair Freeman, a women-owned construction firm. Maranda shares her journey from establishing a real estate investment company in 2010 to co-founding Blair Freeman in 2018. She discusses the significance of North Omaha, the challenges and triumphs in the construction industry, and the importance of being solution-driven, innovative, and empathetic. Adams also emphasizes the value of mentorship, shared leadership, and the role of community support in balancing personal and professional life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and community transformation. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:04 Meet Miranda Adams: Visionary Leader 00:57 The Birth of Blair Freeman 02:04 Revitalizing North Omaha 03:12 Miranda's Real Estate Journey 07:38 Shared Leadership at Blair Freeman 10:26 Balancing Leadership and Family 16:18 Integration Over Balance 17:53 Balancing Family and Business 18:25 The Power of Networking 19:43 Navigating Business Challenges 22:37 Team Communication and Problem Solving 23:36 Encouraging Careers in Construction 25:27 Leadership and Mentorship 29:13 Future Goals and Expansion 36:42 The Importance of Service Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/357 Mentorship Guide and Bonuses: Set Up for Success at Work

In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea emphasizes the importance of mentorship as a strategic advantage for companies. She discusses her Forbes article titled “Mentorship as a Strategic Advantage: A Low-Cost, High-Impact Approach” and introduces her book “Set Up for Success at Work: A Mentorship Guide and Journal for Mentors and Mentees.” Andrea highlights the benefits of mentorship, such as enhancing employee development, boosting engagement and retention, and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration. She also provides actionable insights on establishing a successful mentorship program and details how her guide can facilitate this process. 00:00 Welcome to the Voice of Influence Podcast 01:10 Introduction to Mentorship 01:40 The Importance of Mentorship 06:15 Keys to a Successful Mentorship Program 14:11 Mentorship Guide and Journal Overview 20:26 Special Offers and Conclusion Find the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/356 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 and Rosanne Moore delve into a deeper discussion about Andrea's interview with Anna LeBaron, who shared her traumatic experiences in a violent polygamist cult led by her father. They explore the concept of spiritual bypass and how Anna used religious practices to suppress emotional pain, before eventually addressing it. They discuss the challenges of healing from deep trauma in layers, the importance of education and information exposure, and the role of memoirs like 'Educated' by Tara Westover. They also touch on cultural awareness raised by the docuseries 'Shiny Happy People' and the damaging control dynamics in high-control religious environments. The episode concludes with personal reflections on finding one's voice and maintaining curiosity and openness in conversations, especially when discussing contentious or polarizing issues. 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” Book: Educated by Tara Westover Prime Docuseries “Shiny Happy People” 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:55 Understanding Spiritual Bypass 03:36 The Importance of Lament 07:17 Healing in Layers 12:49 The Role of Education in Healing 15:57 Navigating New Ideas and Beliefs 25:12 The Power of Listening First 26:31 Finding Your Voice: A Journey of Healing 27:35 Navigating the World of Dating After Abuse 31:41 Shiny Happy People: Exposing Spiritual Abuse 39:43 Bill Gothard and the IBLP: A Framework for Control 48:38 The Challenge of Self-Reflection and Growth Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/355 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 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