The Circuit of Success Podcast with Brett Gilliland

In this powerful episode of Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland welcomes Maxine Clark, the remarkable founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop and a true pioneer in the retail industry. Maxine shares her journey from a young girl inspired by her family’s resilience and her teachers’ guidance, to becoming one of the most influential leaders in retail. Since launching Build-A-Bear Workshop in 1997, Maxine transformed a simple idea into a globally loved brand, with nearly 500 stores and over 250 million customized furry friends created. As she recounts the challenges and triumphs of taking the company public on the NYSE and growing it into a household name, Maxine offers listeners rare insights into the visionary mindset that fuels her success.   Beyond her accomplishments with Build-A-Bear, Maxine reveals the next chapters of her life dedicated to giving back. From creating Blueprint4.com, a mobile app designed to help families access educational resources, to developing the Delmar DivINe™, a vibrant multi-use space revitalizing St. Louis neighborhoods, Maxine continues to drive meaningful change. As a mentor, investor, and Managing Partner at Prosper Women’s Capital, she supports women and minority entrepreneurs, embodying her belief in the transformative power of education and opportunity. Maxine’s influence extends well beyond her career, earning her accolades like induction into the Junior Achievement National Business Hall of Fame and recognition as one of retail’s “25 Most Influential People.” Currently serving on boards such as Arch Grants, Nine PBS, and Washington University, Maxine champions initiatives that promote equity and community. In this inspiring episode, Maxine shares the lessons, values, and bold vision that have defined her path, offering a masterclass on leadership, impact, and building a legacy with heart.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of The Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Marco Buchbinder, CEO and founder of Ampliforce, a leading artificial intelligence firm that is transforming the modern workplace. Since founding Ampliforce in 2017, Marco has been pioneering AI-powered solutions to help businesses tackle complex operational challenges. He shares insights from his journey, leading startups and global ventures, and how AI is revolutionizing productivity by freeing people from tedious tasks.   With over two decades in C-suite roles, Marco brings a wealth of international experience, having worked across Milan, Rome, Vienna, Buenos Aires, and London. Fluent in four languages: Italian, English, French, and Spanish. He provides a unique perspective on leadership, adaptability, and the importance of understanding cultural differences in business. His global mindset and dedication to continuous learning have shaped his approach to building successful companies. Marco, also the author of The AI Agent Mandate, shares his belief that artificial intelligence could be more transformative than the Internet. In this conversation, he discusses how AI can empower individuals and organizations alike by improving decision-making, automating tasks, and enhancing productivity. Tune in to discover how embracing AI is key to staying competitive in an ever-evolving world.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of The Circuit of Success podcast, host Brett Gilliland welcomes Laurie Singer, a licensed psychotherapist, board-certified behavior analyst, and inspiring endurance athlete. As the leader of Laurie Singer Behavioral Services in Camarillo, California, Laurie has dedicated her life to helping individuals manage and overcome behavioral and mental health challenges. Motivated by personal loss, she has developed a unique therapeutic approach that combines behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapies to guide her clients toward healing and resilience.   Laurie’s personal story of perseverance extends beyond her professional life. She’s a seasoned endurance athlete, having completed 28 ultra-marathons, three Ironman competitions, and a 3,000-mile cross-country bike ride. In this episode, Laurie shares the mindset that has fueled her remarkable athletic achievements, including her latest triumph: reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2024. Her determination to push physical limits mirrors the mental strength she encourages in her clients. Additionally, Laurie discusses her deeply personal motivation behind Jacob’s Run, an annual event she created in memory of her son, Jacob, who passed away from cancer. This fundraiser supports the Child Life Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, bringing comfort and care to young patients and their families. Laurie also touches on her book, You’re Not Crazy: Living with Anxiety, Obsessions, and Fetishes, which offers practical strategies for mental well-being. Laurie Singer Behavioral Services  Tfraser@inkincpr.com (Todd) Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this powerful episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Kelvin Adams, a visionary leader whose story is rooted in faith, resilience, and transformative leadership. Dr. Adams opens up about his humble beginnings in New Orleans, where he overcame significant challenges, and how those early experiences shaped his unwavering commitment to serving others. He reflects on the leadership principles that guided him through his 14-year tenure as Superintendent of Schools for the Saint Louis Public School District, where he made significant strides in improving academic performance, reducing dropout rates, and expanding opportunities for students.   Dr. Kelvin Adams joined the St. Louis Community Foundation in 2023 as its President & CEO, where he now leads the organization’s efforts to foster economic mobility and youth connections throughout the St. Louis region. With a proven track record of leadership and service, Dr. Adams continues to push boundaries in his new role, expanding the Foundation’s philanthropic reach and impact. Prior to this, he was the third longest-serving superintendent in the district’s history and the longest in the modern era. Under his leadership, the district experienced marked improvements in almost every key area, from increasing attendance to enhancing access to advanced coursework for students. In this episode, Dr. Adams delves into his passion for education, the importance of building a legacy of service, and his dedication to empowering the next generation. His journey serves as an inspiring example of what it means to turn adversity into purpose, and his work continues to positively impact communities across St. Louis. Whether you’re a leader, educator, or simply someone in need of motivation, this conversation is sure to resonate with anyone looking to lead with vision, heart, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this emotional and inspiring episode of The Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Kira Andersen, a wellness enthusiast, cancer fundraiser, and mother of three. Kira opens up about her passion for fitness, nutrition, and hope while sharing the deeply personal story of her husband’s battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She reflects on how her biggest fear of becoming a single mother unfolded in unimaginable ways, yet, through strength and faith, she kept her family and herself moving forward.     Kira’s journey is one of resilience, balancing the demands of motherhood and a traumatic loss while maintaining her mental and physical well-being. She shares how her husband’s diagnosis shaped her life, discussing the power of mindset and how she leaned into her established wellness routines despite facing judgment from others. Her approach to fitness, therapy, and even maintaining a blog during these dark times was critical to her emotional survival. Throughout the conversation, Kira provides valuable insights into managing anxiety, grief, and the overwhelming pressures of life. She opens up about the importance of faith, self-care, and how embracing small habits, like meditation and healthy living, can make a world of difference in times of crisis. Her story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to push through even the darkest moments with hope, courage, and the will to keep moving forward.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of The Circuit of Success, Brett Gilliland sits down with Keith Grabowski, founder of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, to explore the powerful lessons he’s learned from nearly three decades as a football coach and educator. From his roots as the son of a coach to his rise as a head coach and offensive coordinator at both the high school and college levels, Keith shares how his lifelong passion for football has shaped his journey. He talks about the importance of always being a student of the game, even while leading others, and how he applies these principles to inspire coaches across the country.   Keith Grabowski’s impressive background includes a wealth of experience gained through years of coaching, teaching, and immersing himself in the culture of football. As someone who grew up on the sidelines and in locker rooms, Keith developed a deep understanding of the emotional and leadership qualities required to be what he calls a “10% Coach.” With his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Baldwin Wallace University, he has built a career centered on the pursuit of learning and teaching the intricacies of the game. Now, as the host of the popular Coach and Coordinator Podcast, Keith continues to mentor coaches at all levels. In this conversation, he reveals the vision behind his podcast and media company, sharing insights into how he has grown his platform to over 15 million downloads. Keith also talks about the ever-changing landscape of football, including the challenges presented by the transfer portal and NIL. This episode is packed with actionable advice on leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and creating a lasting impact in any field.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

Joe De Sena, the visionary Founder and CEO of Spartan, is no stranger to pushing the limits of physical and mental endurance. After building a multimillion-dollar construction business in college and conquering Wall Street with his own trading firm, Joe made a bold move to Pittsfield, Vermont. There, he nurtured his passion for ultramarathons, adventure races, and endurance events, ultimately leading to the creation of Spartan, a global obstacle racing phenomenon. What started as a small idea has now grown into a worldwide movement, with over one million annual participants and more than 200 events in 40+ countries. Joe’s mission is clear: to transform lives by pulling people out of their comfort zones and showing them the power of perseverance   Spartan is more than just a race; it’s a lifestyle that embodies Joe’s core belief that success is achieved through grit, determination, and the willingness to endure hardship. His mother’s influence, which instilled in him a love for health, resilience, and a disciplined mindset, laid the foundation for Spartan’s ethos. Through his books like “Spartan Up” and “The Spartan Way”, Joe has inspired millions to adopt the Spartan principles, pushing their limits not only physically but mentally. With events that cater to all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes and even kids. Spartan has become a transformative experience for those willing to challenge themselves and conquer obstacles both on the racecourse and in life. Beyond the physical challenges, Joe has turned Spartan into a brand that promotes holistic well-being. Through partnerships with fitness brands like Life Time and 24Hour Fitness, Spartan offers training programs, nutrition plans, and leadership forums to help individuals reach their peak potential. Whether it’s competing in one of Joe’s grueling races, engaging in SpartanX leadership events, or consuming the wealth of media content Spartan has produced, millions are drawn to the brand’s message of resilience and self-mastery. Joe De Sena’s Spartan empire is a testament to what can be achieved when you refuse to quit and when you inspire others to do the same.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of The Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland welcomes Zed Williamson, a business leader whose life experiences have deeply influenced his approach to success. Zed begins by sharing a powerful personal story about adopting his son from Russia during the chaos of Hurricane Katrina. This experience, filled with unexpected obstacles, taught him the importance of resilience and unwavering focus. Zed explains how the lessons learned from navigating this life challenge have shaped his philosophy on overcoming difficulties in both business and life.   As the conversation unfolds, Zed dives into the importance of mindset in achieving success. He discusses how understanding the ‘why’ behind our goals can help us push through barriers that might otherwise derail us. Drawing from his deep understanding of neuroscience and human behavior, Zed reveals how our brains, wired for survival in a different era, often create fears and doubts that hold us back. By mastering these mental challenges, Zed believes we can create the outcomes we desire, both personally and professionally. Zed’s insights are grounded in his extensive experience in the advertising industry and his journey as the founder of TrackableMed, a comprehensive medical growth platform grounded in neuroscience. After years of frustration with the lack of accountability in the advertising world, Zed started TrackableMed in 2011 to focus on results. Now, he shares how these principles apply to building a strong company culture rooted in core behavioral values. He provides actionable strategies for leaders to cultivate a positive and resilient culture, ensuring that teams are aligned and motivated to achieve their goals. Outside of work, Zed enjoys reading, spending time with his wife and family, and running a highly innovative business that helps private medical practices thrive. Whether you’re a business owner, leader, or someone striving for personal growth, this episode offers valuable takeaways on how to master your mindset and create lasting success   Website: https://www.zedwilliamson.com/ Watch the Full Episode Here!

Brett Gilliland’s recent appearance on the Glow Accelerator Podcast with host Ariana Jahja was a deep dive into the transformative power of clarity and resilience in both personal and professional life. Ariana, known for her expertise in psychology, neuro-informed coaching, and human resources, led the conversation with insights from her experience coaching over 300 individuals. She introduced the concept of “post-traumatic growth,” exploring how revisiting and reshaping the narrative of one’s past can unlock new paths to success.   Gilliland, founder of Visionary Wealth Advisors, shared his journey from a small-town kid in Illinois to becoming a leading figure in the wealth management industry. He emphasized the importance of clarity, stating that “clarity precedes mastery,” and credited his success to a relentless focus on goal-setting and personal development. Gilliland recounted a pivotal moment early in his career when a challenging year forced him to reassess his approach, leading to profound personal growth. This experience, he noted, taught him the value of resilience and the necessity of bouncing back quickly from setbacks. The discussion also highlighted the role of journaling in achieving clarity and maintaining focus. Gilliland revealed his habit of daily journaling, where he reflects on his goals, challenges, and aspirations. Ariana, who co-founded Glove Up Fitness with her husband, resonated with this practice, noting how it aligns with her own coaching methods. Together, they explored how conscious leadership, self-awareness, and the ability to adapt are crucial for building a future greater than the past, leaving listeners inspired to take strategic and courageous action in their own lives. Watch the Full Episode Here!

In the latest episode of the Circuit of Success podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Giovanni Dienstmann, a renowned self-discipline coach, meditation teacher, and author. Giovanni, the creator of the highly popular meditation blog Live and Dare and author of best-selling books like Practical Meditation and Mindful Self-Discipline shares his insights on overcoming self-doubt and building lasting self-esteem. He delves into “wise confidence,” a balanced state where self-belief is harmonized with a realistic understanding of life’s challenges. This state allows individuals to navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience and a clear sense of purpose.   Giovanni’s newest book, Wise Confidence: Overcome Self-Doubt and Build Lasting Self-Esteem, released in March 2024, brings a transformative approach to the age-old struggle of self-doubt. During the podcast, he discusses how meditation and self-discipline can help individuals unlock their inner strength and find peace, even amidst chaos. Giovanni emphasizes that mastering the mind through meditation is not just about stress reduction, but about creating a life where peace of mind, empowerment, and well-being are daily experiences. As a leader in the mindfulness space, Giovanni Dienstmann’s teachings are grounded in the intersection of wisdom, peace, and power. His bold promise is that anyone, regardless of their current life circumstances, can access a place within themselves that is untouched by anxiety, fear, or lack. Through his work, Giovanni provides practical tools and insights to help individuals discover this inner sanctuary and transform their lives from the inside out. Giovanni emphasizes the idea of living “inside out,” meaning that one’s internal mindset and values should guide one’s external actions, rather than letting external circumstances dictate their inner state. He also shares his personal meditation practices, which involve extensive daily sessions, and discusses how different types of meditation can cater to individual needs. The podcast seems geared toward individuals interested in personal growth, mental wellness, and achieving success through disciplined practices and a positive mindset. Learn more at www.mindfulselfdiscipline.com and www.liveanddare.com Watch Full Episode Here!