Voice of Influence

In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Joe McCormack, founder of the Sheffield Company and author of three books: Brief, Noise, and Quiet Works. Joe discusses his passion for helping professionals achieve focused and clear communication amidst a world of information overload and constant collaboration. He emphasizes the value of deliberate communication in creating clarity and reducing noise. Joe shares his journey from marketing executive to helping military leaders communicate effectively, leading to insights about the importance of quiet time for critical thinking and communication. The conversation delves into practical strategies for incorporating quiet time into professional life and how it can revolutionize leadership and teamwork. Joe also highlights the need for leaders to take time to think before they speak to foster a more engaged and productive work environment. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/332 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 engages with Stephen L. Blue, the President and CEO of Miller Ingenuity. Stephen, known for his expertise in business transformation, shares insights from his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of empathy, clear communication, and balanced stakeholder relationships. He discusses the role of innovation and technology in shaping the future, particularly within the rail industry. Key topics include fostering an innovative workplace culture, direct communication to empower employees, and the continuous evolution necessary for business growth. Stephen also reflects on his experiences with leadership development at Allen Bradley, advocating for a workplace that prioritizes employee well-being and open dialogue. These anecdotes underscore the need for strong leadership skills and a self-directed, creative workforce to navigate the challenges of modern business. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/331 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 welcomes Margaret Wenigar to discuss the challenges and progress of women in the modern workplace. They explore systemic biases, such as the 'prove it again' bias, that women face compared to men and how this affects women's confidence and opportunities. Margaret shares her personal journey, highlighting hurdles she faced in her career due to pregnancy and motherhood. The conversation touches on the importance of acknowledging women's strengths, especially in prioritizing and efficient multitasking, and the potential impact of recent successes in women’s sports on workplace dynamics. Margaret discusses her vision for building human-centered work environments, and suggests actionable ways to support women's success at work. Margaret is the founder of Rising Tide. She coaches ambitious women seeking more, consults with tech startups ready to scale, and speaks on what allows people to live to their fullest potential. In addition, she serves as an advisor at the Atlanta Tech Village and is a coach at Georgia Tech’s Entrepreneurial Program Create-X. She is also the host of Rising Tide podcast, a podcast for career driven women to find inspiration, courage, and their voice. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/330 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 talks with Daniele Moomey, the Voice of Influence Director of Client Success. Daniele shares insights into her role in enhancing team productivity and her transition from a global trainer to her current position. They explore the dynamics of sibling collaboration, the balance of work and personal life, and Daniele's strengths in creating engaging, fun, and productive environments. Additionally, they delve into the importance of not owning others' emotional reactions and strategies for managing people-pleasing tendencies. The conversation touches on the mutual influence they wield in each other's lives, the significance of maintaining boundaries, and the joy Daniele finds in making others feel seen and loved. Happy Birthday and “work anniversary,” Daniele! Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/329 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, Wayne Turmel, a veteran in communication and leadership skills, discusses his revised book 'Long Distance Leader: Revised Rules for Remarkable Remote and Hybrid Leadership.' Wayne shares insights from his extensive experience working with both remote and hybrid teams, the evolution of remote work technologies, and the significance of intentional leadership practices. He also talks about how historical changes and the COVID-19 pandemic have shaped modern remote work environments. Wayne emphasizes the importance of understanding team dynamics and creating effective communication strategies for leading teams that are not co-located. Wayne Turmel has been writing about how to develop communication and leadership skills for almost 26 years. He has taught and consulted at Fortune 500 companies and startups around the world. For the last 18 years, he’s focused on the growing need to communicate effectively in remote and virtual environments. - and - fun fact - in Wayne’s early career he was a stand up comedian AND He's also the author of 5 novels and co-host of The Long-Distance Worklife. He’s here today to talk about the book: The Long Distance Leader, Revised Rules for Remarkable Remote and Hybrid Leadership. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/328 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 Tobias Sturzen, a culture change expert and co-founder of Heart Management. Tobias shares his journey from growing up in a religious cult to becoming a leading advocate for cultural health in organizations. They discuss his new book, You Can Culture, is aimed at helping leaders create thriving cultures. Tobias shares from his own experience in a cult and emphasizes the importance of humility, vulnerability, and practical steps for leaders to reflect on and solicit feedback to build healthier workplaces. He also touches on recognizing toxic behaviors, the significance of systemic issues in organizations, and strategies for ensuring ethical integrity and sustainable cultural practices. Tobias highlights the challenges and importance of soliciting honest feedback within teams and the role of leaders in fostering an environment where people feel safe to speak up. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/327 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 Joe Byerly, a combat arms officer with over 20 years of experience, founder of the blog and podcast From the Green Notebook, and co-author of 'My Green Notebook: Know Thyself Before Changing Jobs.' Joe shares the origin and evolution of his 'green notebook' practice, which began as a tool for taking notes in the military and grew into a method for daily reflection and leadership development. Joe discusses his journey from being anonymous in his writing to becoming comfortable sharing his thoughts publicly, and how his love for reading and writing has shaped his leadership approach. He highlights the importance of understanding and managing friction in leadership, his experiences with military training, and the crucial role of self-awareness. As Joe prepares to transition to civilian life after retiring from the army, he reflects on his plans to continue helping others through writing and sharing his insights on leadership. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/326 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 Penny Zenker, a renowned speaker, business strategy coach, and expert on productivity, also known as the Focusologist. Penny discusses her new book, 'The Reset Mindset,' which builds on Carol Dweck's growth mindset concept by introducing real-time adaptability through feedback loops. Penny shares her personal journey, highlighting key reset moments and practical techniques for managing priorities, dealing with constraints, and maintaining intentionality. The conversation also delves into overcoming self-doubt and leveraging challenges as opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the importance of embracing change, improving communication, and fostering a culture of constructive feedback to enhance personal and professional productivity. Penny Zenker (aka The Focusologist) is an international speaker, business strategy coach, and one of America’s leading experts in the psychology of productivity to eliminate distraction, perfectionism, and self-sabotage to maximize results in every area of your life and business. By the time she was thirty-one, Penny founded, developed, and sold her first multimillion-dollar business in Zurich, Switzerland. Her first book, The Productivity Zone, was an instant Amazon bestseller, and her TEDx talk, “The Energy of Thought,” has gained international attention and impact with more than one million views. Today she’s here to talk about her new book “The Reset Mindset.” Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/325 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 Heath Mello, former state senator and current President and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce. Heath discusses his journey into public service, starting from his aspirations in elementary school through various roles in higher education and government. He emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and consensus-building, shares his thoughts on the impact of social media on public service, and describes the challenges and rewards of his current role. Additionally, Heath provides insights on the economic and workforce development efforts in the Omaha area, and offers advice on facilitating difficult conversations and building consensus. Heath Mello, former state senator and higher education executive, assumed the role of President & CEO at the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce in August 2023. In this capacity, he oversees day-to-day operations, emphasizing economic development, public policy, and workforce partnerships across an eight-county region. Additionally, Mello serves on the Nebraska Highway Commission and various committees, leveraging his extensive legislative experience. Previously, he held leadership roles at the University of Nebraska System and Metropolitan Community College. Mello, a native of Omaha, holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/324 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 Patrick Nelson, a decorated military veteran and author of 'Frontline Leadership: How to Eliminate Complacency and Build All-in Engagement.' They discuss Patrick's extensive military background, his transition to becoming a professional speaker and trainer, and the release of his new book. Patrick shares powerful personal stories, including a harrowing incident in Afghanistan that shaped his views on leadership and safety, and offers insights on leading by example, cultivating a culture of accountability, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. He also addresses motivating teams, especially in high-risk industries, and gives advice to young adults on finding their purpose. The conversation provides practical leadership strategies and emphasizes the impact of influence over positional authority. Patrick has gained both local and national accolades for his military service, aca­demic career, and work as a professional speaker and trainer including being named the inaugural NFL-Tillman Military Scholar. He is an experienced leader that spent nearly seven years in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper and completed three combat deployments leading soldiers. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal. He is the author of “Front-Line Leadership: How to Eliminate Complacency and Build All-Il Engagement.” Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/323 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 reflects on watching women’s sports take off to new heights, highlighting notable stories like that of DeWanna Bonner. Andrea draws connections between women's achievements in sports and the importance of recognizing and supporting humanity in the workplace. She emphasizes the need for employers to be adaptable and supportive of their employees' personal lives, advocating for ongoing experimentation and open communication to foster a thriving, engaged, and loyal workforce. The episode underscores the value of human connection and flexibility in achieving high performance and innovation. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/322 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 Anthony Taylor, CEO of SME Strategy. Anthony, a seasoned facilitator of strategy sessions across North America, shares insights from his extensive experience. They discuss the importance of strategic planning, the difference between strategy, strategic initiatives, and strategic planning, and the critical elements of ensuring alignment within an organization. The conversation covers the impact of the pandemic on strategic planning, the common causes of resistance to strategic planning, and the elements that make vision and mission statements effective. Anthony emphasizes the importance of ongoing communication, the role of adaptability in strategic systems, and offers advice for those looking to have a voice of influence in their organization. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/321 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 Randy Hain, President of Servium Partners and co-founder of the Leadership Foundry. Randyboasts a 30-plus-year career in senior leadership roles, corporate talent, and executive search, and is a highly sought-after executive coach, leadership consultant, and author of 10 books. During the episode, Randy discusses his journey influenced by his mother to help people connect fully with others, work, and the world. He emphasizes the significance of authenticity, having a moral compass, and the need for substantive writing and conversations in today’s noisy world. Randy also touches on the essence of credibility, the value of failing for growth, the importance of mentoring, and the impactful role of special needs individuals in personal and professional life. The episode concludes with Randy’s advice on having a voice of influence by being authentic and staying true to one's convictions. Randy Hain is the president of Serviam Partners and co-founder of the Leadership Foundry. With a successful 30+ year career in senior leadership roles, corporate talent, and executive search, he is a sought-after executive coach and leadership consultant for senior leaders and their teams at some of the best-known companies in the U.S. He is a devoted family man, the author of 10 books and active in serving the causes he cares about. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/320 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 reflects on her motivation for starting the podcast in April 2017. She shares her journey of recognizing the importance of bringing one's ideas and voice into the world and how her own experiences of feeling silenced inspired her mission. The episode ties back to Andrea's memoir 'Unfrozen: Stop Holding Back and Release the Real You,' which highlights her transformation and the struggles she faced in releasing her voice. Through her narrative, Andrea encourages listeners to overcome their fears and embrace their true potential, drawing parallels to Elsa's journey in the movie Frozen. She urges her audience to release their gifts and creativity for the good of the world, emphasizing the need for assertive communication and initiative in both personal and professional spheres. Unfrozen: Stop Holding Back and Release the Real You Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/319 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 Henry Lopez, a serial entrepreneur, small business coach, consultant, and host of the How to Business podcast. They discuss what it means to be a serial entrepreneur, the various businesses Henry has been involved in, and his journey from a shy kid to a confident business owner and podcaster. Henry shares insights on decision-making, the importance of having values in business, and the dynamics of business partnerships. He also explores how small business owners can maintain their mental health and well-being, and the current top concerns of small business owners. Henry emphasizes effective communication and leadership, offering advice on how to inspire and engage employees. Finally, he provides his perspective on what it takes to have a voice of influence in business. Henry is a Serial Entrepreneur, Small Business Coach & Consultant, and Host of The How of Business podcast. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/318 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact

Andrea, the host of the Voice of Influence podcast, interviews Kelly Campbell, an expert on trauma, leadership, and consciousness, and author of 'Heal to Lead.' Kelly, a trauma informed leadership coach, shares her vision for widespread healing of childhood trauma to improve the world. She discusses the impact of childhood and adult trauma, the importance of somatic healing practices, and the need for trauma-informed leadership. The conversation delves into Kelly's personal experiences with trauma and her journey towards healing, emphasizing the significance of understanding and integrating trauma to better lead oneself and others. Kelly speaks and writes about trauma, leadership, and consciousness—”The New TLC.” The author of Heal to Lead (Wiley, April 2024), Kelly is a Trauma-Informed Leadership Coach to emerging and established leaders who know they are meant for more. Kelly’s vision is for more than half of humanity to heal its childhood trauma so that we may reimagine and rebuild the world together. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/317 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 John Rennie, founder and CEO of Peak Demand Incorporated and a former US Navy nuclear submarine officer. John discusses his various roles on the USS Tennessee, the hardest aspects of transitioning from the Navy to the corporate world, and the importance of having a mission in civilian jobs. He shares lessons on leadership, drawn from his military experience and practical corporate life, such as the significance of maintaining control over emotions, the responsibilities of having 'the watch,' and the value of being both people and mission-focused. John also emphasizes the necessity of leaders visibly supporting their teams and genuinely getting to know their employees for effective leadership and motivation. Jon is the Founder & CEO of Peak Demand Inc., a manufacturer of critical components for electrical utilities. He is a former U.S. Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer who made seven deployments during the end of the Cold War. Prior to starting Peak Demand, he led eight manufacturing businesses for three global companies. He is the author of three best-selling leadership books and the host of the Deep Leadership podcast. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/316 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 chats with Monique Farmer who recently released her book 'Chart Your Path.' Monique shares her extensive background in PR and education, her experiences in federal public affairs, and her journey of personal growth which led her to write her book. They discuss Monique's experiences on a leadership panel, the process of writing and launching her book, the inspiration behind it, and her nine-step method for getting unstuck in life. Monique also delves into her motivations, career transitions, and the importance of self-study, autonomy, and accepting what one cannot control. She offers practical advice on creating meaningful communication strategies and the importance of staying connected with oneself and others in professional life. Monique Farmer, APR, runs a PR/Communication Consultancy, Avant Solutions, and is the creator of Anvil Ready, an online communication strategy builder that aids the communication professional in creating communication plans. She teaches at the University of Texas at Austin. Farmer previously served in federal government public affairs for 12 years, as the director of communications for Nebraska’s largest school district and in corporate communications for ConAgra Foods (now ConAgra Brands). Monique is the author of the recent release, Chart Your Path. Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/315 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 welcomes Elena Agaragimova to the podcast, highlighting her remarkable transition from academia to impactful roles in global corporations. In her high-impact role at a tech consulting firm, Elena brings belief in the untapped capabilities of the human mind, integrating neuroscience to maximize effectiveness. She's also a sought-after speaker delivering messages that resonate with audiences from New York to Dubai. Elena shares her passion for human potential, discussing the similarities in talent development challenges across various professional levels and the importance of integrating neuroscience in programs. She provides a critical view on current corporate investments in talent development and offers practical insights into what makes talent development truly effective, emphasizing physical health, mindset, and workplace culture. Elena also shares actionable steps for organizations to improve engagement and retention while fostering a continuous learning environment.

When the storms of life come, it’s natural for us to focus on how we can protect ourselves and our families, teams, and people we care about. But it’s also in the storms of life where we find out who we really are - what we’re really capable of. So why are we trying to shelter others from the opportunity to find strength inside themselves? In this episode, Andrea tells about the story of a family caught in a tornado, parents trapped in the vehicle, and the 9 year old child who found something extraordinary in himself to run and find help to save his parent’s lives. And she shares 3 things you can do to provide that opportunity to those in your care. Video About Boy in Tornado Read the show notes here: https://www.voiceofinfluence.net/313 Give and receive feedback that makes a difference! Register for our 20 minute Deep Impact Method video course here: www.voiceofinfluence.net/deepimpact