Todd Bertsch, an inspiring entrepreneur and life-optimization coach, shares his journey from early life challenges to transformative leadership. He discusses the power of embracing a growth mindset, highlighting how it fosters empathy and self-awareness. Todd underscores the importance of personal growth as a foundation for effective leadership, explaining how supportive relationships play a crucial role. He emphasizes the value of reflection and vulnerability in guiding others, making a compelling case for leaders to prioritize their own well-being.
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Todd's Transformation
Todd Bertsch's journey involved early struggles with addiction and anger, hindering his leadership abilities.
A pivotal moment of being assaulted led him to enroll in college and begin his transformation.
insights INSIGHT
Growth Mindset in Leadership
Todd emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset in leadership, fostering curiosity, empathy, and self-awareness.
Shifting from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset allows for greater openness to possibilities and finding opportunities in every situation.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Embrace Imperfection and Seek Support
Leaders should acknowledge their imperfections and be open about making mistakes.
Make a choice to change, find your support system, and focus on holistic growth.
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Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential and How You Can Achieve Yours
Shirzad Chamine
In this book, Shirzad Chamine reveals how to achieve professional success and personal fulfillment by identifying and conquering ten well-disguised mental Saboteurs. Positive Intelligence (PQ) measures the percentage of time the mind serves rather than sabotages. The book provides tools and techniques to increase PQ, which can be improved significantly in as little as 21 days, leading to better performance, happiness, and reduced stress. Chamine shares stories from his coaching experiences with CEOs and executive teams, highlighting applications such as team building, workload management, and improving work-life balance.
Be Water, My Friend
The Teachings of Bruce Lee
Dom Lee
Ken Mochizuki
In this book, Shannon Lee explores her father's iconic 'be water' philosophy, which encourages readers to embody the characteristics of water—being fluid, adaptable, and naturally responsive to circumstances. Through previously untold stories from Bruce Lee's life and her own experiences, Shannon presents these philosophies in accessible ways, encouraging readers to apply these ideas to their everyday lives for personal growth and self-actualization.
Todd Bertsch is a dynamic entrepreneur, speaker, and life-optimization coach, best known as the host of The BOLT Podcast. His inspiring journey from overcoming early life challenges to experiencing a pivotal transformation in his 20s has established him as a respected figure in digital marketing, education, and leadership.
In 2009, Todd founded Evolve Marketing, a successful digital agency. Passionate about inspiring others, Todd's mission is to encourage individuals to embrace change, cultivate a growth mindset, and lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards and is currently the president of Leadership Akron Signature Class 39.
A Few Quotes From This Episode
“It took me a long time to get to where I am—truly fulfilled and happy—and I want more people to reach that place without having to fail so many times. You can start today.”
"When you shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, you open yourself up to possibilities—you become more empathetic, self-aware, and ultimately a more effective leader.”
“A lot of people love the idea of being a leader, but they don’t realize how much responsibility comes with it. It’s a privilege that shouldn’t be taken for granted.”
About The International Leadership Association (ILA)
The ILA was created in 1999 to bring together professionals interested in studying, practicing, and teaching leadership. Plan for Prague - October 15-18, 2025!
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Practical Wisdom for Leaders with Scott J. Allen, Ph.D. 
