
Motivational Mondays: Conversations with Leaders
A weekly conversation with entrepreneurs, authors, and leadership experts to unravel the secrets behind success. Our guests share their inspirational stories and give actionable advice. Learn more about The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) at thens.ls/mmpodcast.
Latest episodes

Apr 8, 2024 • 36min
Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones (Feat. Dre Baldwin)
Dre Baldwin's story is one of unwavering determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Since his childhood days spent playing outside, Dre's competitive spirit has always burned bright. Whether it was football, baseball, track, or basketball, Dre approached every sport with the same level of intensity, constantly seeking to challenge himself and outperform his opponents.After trying his hand at various sports, Dre finally found his calling in basketball at the age of 14. However, his journey to success was far from easy. For three years, he faced rejection as he tried and failed to make his high school varsity basketball team. Even when he finally earned a spot as a senior, he spent most of the season riding the bench, overlooked and underestimated. He never gave up.Dre went on to sports success and today leverages his online popularity through branding and marketing campaigns with major companies such as Nike, Gatorade, and the NBA, among others. His innovative approach to athlete-driven content paved the way for countless opportunities, notoriety, and building his brand in the digital sphere.This week you’ll learn how much Dre was determined despite all odds to play professional basketball, how Dre transitioned from pro athlete to rebranding himself as a thought leader in marketing, and more about Dre’s many published books that helped him rise as an author and subject matter expert.LEARN MORE:>>http://LinkedIn.com/in/DreAllDay>>http://Facebook.com/WorkOnYourGame >>http://Twitter.com/DreAllDay>>http://Instagram.com/DreBaldwin>>http://YouTube.com/Dreupt>>http://DreAllDay.com/>>Work On Your Game University Affiliate Sign-Up: https://workonyourgame.clickfunnels.com/work-on-your-game-university-affiliate-access1634494798373/b6494a13871 NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn what Dre considers to be the most important leadership trait and the relationship between confidence and discipline. (https://thens.ls/49umAaB)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Apr 1, 2024 • 35min
From Bullied to Bodybuilding Champ (Feat. Nacone Martin)
Nacone Martin's story is one of remarkable transformation, resilience, and self-discovery. Once a shy, bullied teenager grappling with low self-esteem, Nacone has blossomed into a powerhouse of confidence, success, and physical strength. Her journey from the halls of high school to the stage of professional bodybuilding competitions is nothing short of inspiring.Growing up, Nacone faced relentless bullying from peers, enduring physical and emotional torment that left scars both seen and unseen. Despite her struggles, she persevered, finding solace and support in her family, particularly her father, who taught her the importance of standing up for herself. With his guidance, Nacone learned to defend herself, putting an end to the bullying that had plagued her for years.However, the scars of her past lingered, manifesting as deep-seated insecurities and a lack of self-love. Even as she entered college, Nacone battled with feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness, culminating in a dark moment when she attempted to take her own life. It was a pivotal moment that forced her to confront her inner demons and seek a path towards healing and self-acceptance.In this episode, you’ll learn how Nacone endured being bullied until she finally fought back, how she overcame shyness and a sheltered upbringing, and how Nacone found her confidence through physical fitness.LEARN MORE:>>be_fitnessstudio>>Enocanfitness>>https://www.facebook.com/nacone.martinNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how Nacone transformed her body and how she stays motivated in her fitness journey. (https://thens.ls/43GLhj1)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Mar 25, 2024 • 34min
Motivational Mondays Celebrates Women's Month (Feat. Dana Marlowe, Eliza Van Cort, Erica Cobb, Pashtana Durrani, Rose Fass)
In celebration of Women's Month, we're thrilled to present a special "Rewind" episode of Motivational Mondays highlighting the wisdom and inspiration of some incredible women who have graced our podcast. Get ready to be empowered and uplifted as we revisit powerful clips from our most inspiring female guests. From entrepreneurs to activists, leaders to artists, these women have shared invaluable insights on overcoming challenges, pursuing dreams, and making a difference. Tune in and let their stories ignite your passion and drive as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women everywhere! You’ll learn how passion and drive can launch advocacy projects, how dedication and resilience can help you overcome adversity and the life lessons that have helped these women reach success.LEARN MORE:Dana Marlowe:>>Learn more about I Support the Girls’ programs and campaigns. (https://isupportthegirls.org)>>Join the movement: Volunteer to help I Support the Girls. (https://isupportthegirls.org/get-involved/volunteer)>>Find out where you can donate feminine hygiene products and gently-used or new bras. (https://isupportthegirls.org/get-involved/how-to-donate)>>Follow the journey and learn about upcoming events and campaigns by following I Support the Girls on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, or LinkedIn. (https://www.facebook.com/SupportTheGirlsandWomen), (https://www.instagram.com/isupportthegirls), (https://twitter.com/I_Support_Girls), (https://www.tiktok.com/@isupportthegirls), (https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-support-the-girls)Eliza Van Court:>>Empower yourself with more strategies in VanCort’s book, “A Woman’s Guide to Claiming Space: Stand Tall. Raise Your Voice. Be Heard.” (https://amzn.to/3EYaava)>>Learn more about VanCort and her work at ElizaVanCort.com. (http://elizavancort.com)>>Check out some resources that VanCort values. (https://linktr.ee/ElizaVanCort)>>Find more lessons on empowerment on VanCort’s podcast, Claim Your Space. (https://www.elizavancort.com/claim-your-space)>>Follow VanCort on TikTok or LinkedIn. (https://www.tiktok.com/@elizavancort), (https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizavancort)Erica Cobb:>>Connect with Erica on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. (https://www.instagram.com/ericacobb), (https://www.facebook.com/EricaCobbFan), (https://twitter.com/EricaCobb)Pashtana Durrani:>>Connect with Pashtana on Twitter and Instagram. (https://twitter.com/barakpashtana), (https://www.instagram.com/afghania_barakzai)>>Read Pashtana's book, Last to Eat, Last to LEARN. (https://amzn.to/3Yi89kv)Rose Fass:>>Learn more about how to have your own tough leadership conversation in Fass’s new book. (https://amzn.to/3N8naSv)>>Connect with Fass on LinkedIn. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosefass)>>Get a better understanding of what’s driving increasing hostility in public discourse. (https://news.osu.edu/a-new-theory-of-what-drives-partisan-conflict-and-hostility)>>Listen to other Motivational Mondays episodes. (https://www.nsls.org/resources/motivational-mondays)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how Dana Marlowe has impacted the lives of homeless women and more about Dana’s work to end period poverty. (https://thens.ls/3IQgmr0)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Mar 18, 2024 • 31min
Advocating to Give Patients a Voice (Feat. Pam Cusick)
Pam Cusick is an esteemed research professional with over 30 years of experience in study design, implementation, and analysis. Pam's journey in public health communications and research has been driven by her unwavering passion for patient advocacy, a passion that seamlessly aligns with Rare Patient Voice's mission and vision.As the Senior Vice President of Rare Patient Voice, Pam spearheads initiatives aimed at expanding the organization's panels to encompass all patients and caregivers eager to share their insights and influence their disease categories. Her dedication to amplifying patient voices is evident in her focus on the continued growth and success of RPV.Enthusiastically, Pam engages with patients and caregivers at various conferences and events, where she educates them about Rare Patient Voice's mission. When individuals express uncertainty about the value of sharing their experiences, Pam passionately assures them of the significance of their unique perspectives. You’ll learn how public health research informs Pam’s advocacy, how patients are empowered by sharing their stories, and why DEI is thriving in healthcare advocacy.LEARN MORE:>>www.rarepatientvoice.comNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how our community benefits from us all sharing our stories and why clinical research benefits from more inclusivity of patients. (https://thens.ls/3TjhSXt)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Mar 11, 2024 • 39min
Rewind | Secrets to Surviving Student Debt (Feat. Zack Geist)
As student loan debt continues to be a genuine concern for many Americans and with ongoing conversations around debt consolidation and student debt forgiveness, we thought it would be beneficial to reshare an informative student loan episode featuring Zack Geist, CEO of Student Loan Tutor, America's longest-operating student loan repayment management and solutions firm. With years of experience, Zack provides borrowers with fundamental student loan debt guidance and stresses the importance of building alliances and support systems in life to succeed. So, if you've got student debt concerns, take notes as we present today's Motivational Monday's Rewind with Student Debt Guru Zack Geist!You’ll learn the importance of relationship-building to success, how to play the economic game we’re all part of, and ways to liberate ourselves from the student loan crisis.LEARN MORE:>>Start your student loan education with informational videos from Student Loan Tutor. (https://www.youtube.com/c/Studentloantutor)>>Keep tabs on the latest from Student Loan Tutor on Facebook or LinkedIn. (https://www.facebook.com/studentloantutor), (https://www.linkedin.com/company/studentloantutor)>>Learn how Student Loan Tutor can help you lift the burden of debt. (https://www.studentloantutor.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how Geist and Holistic Finance reframe investment to benefit not just the individual, but the wider community as well. (https://thens.ls/3M0AdFB)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Mar 4, 2024 • 41min
Stopping Stress from Controlling Us (Feat. Dr. Gary Sprouse)
Dr. Gary Sprouse is a celebrated, seasoned internist known for his dedication to helping patients navigate stress. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Sprouse shares his journey and the inspiration behind his book, "Highway to Your Happy Place." Dr. Sprouse discusses his observations from years of medical practice, highlighting how stress impacts physical health. He introduces the concept of human skills and their side effects, offering a unique perspective on the root causes of stress. In this enlightening interview, Corey sits down with Dr. Gary Sprouse, the “Less Stress Doc” to explore his insights on managing stress and finding happiness amidst life's challenges.This week you’ll learn the negative impact of worrying about the future, the power of focusing on the things we can control, and how to map out a strategy for relieving stress.LEARN MORE:>>www.TheLessStressDoc.comNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how to break down stressful concerns into individual items and how you can't control what happens to you, but you can control how you react. (https://thens.ls/3IEfeGV)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Feb 26, 2024 • 36min
Advocating for Equity in Healthcare (Feat. Dr. Khama Ennis, MD, MPH)
Dr. Khamma Ennis is not only an accomplished physician with a Master's Degree in Public Health but also the visionary creator of ‘Faces of Medicine’, which is a groundbreaking narrative health equity project focused on the journeys of black female doctors.Dr. Ennis’s work in public health has given her a unique insight into illness and diseases but also a broader perspective on why many illnesses occur in some while wellness flourishes in others. Additionally, Dr. Ennis’s work is driven by a passion to make health care accessible and more equitable for everyone, especially marginalized groups.When Dr. Khama Ennis shares how bias and stereotypes can negatively impact patient care, she has many examples but it sometimes comes down to what she feels is subliminal bias in all humans and in medicine.This week, you’ll learn the inspiration behind Dr. Ennis’s docu-series ‘Faces of Medicine’, and how Dr. Ennis decided upon storytelling as a way to connect communities and the future of medicine and equality in healthcare.LEARN MORE:>>Faces of Medicine (Instagram)>>www.facesofmedicine.orgNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn why we need to hold pharma companies accountable and how advertising campaigns help the indoctrination of substance abuse. (https://thens.ls/3T5AmM1)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Feb 19, 2024 • 40min
Avoiding Nutritional Misinformation (Feat. Brian Tanzer)
Brian Tanzer is a physical wellness expert and Director of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs at the Vitamin Shoppe. In his college years, he wanted to pursue a career in medicine. However, after volunteering at NYC Medical Center he took more interest in helping people preserve their natural health to avoid nutrition-related illnesses.Today, Brian advocates for exercise and proper nutrition as a way to sustain a healthier life, and he uses his years of athleticism in sports and martial arts as a catalyst to help lead by example. According to statistics Brian shares that nearly 40% of the American population is close to the weight range of obesity. Years ago weight issues were dismissed often as genetics and real lifestyle changes for better health were not as promoted.In this week’s episode, you’ll learn what Brian thinks of dieting, how better nutritional choices positively impact mood, and the importance of avoiding nutritional misinformation.LEARN MORE:>>https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-tanzer-72a37a74NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn how supplements can complement a well-balanced diet and the danger of eating thousands of excess calories per day. (https://thens.ls/4bPAbMm)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Feb 12, 2024 • 40min
Leadership Through Fearless Learning (Feat. Sandy Colhoun)
As President of NOLS, Sandy draws from his own time as a student when he creates programs for today’s students. Just as he did, students can learn wilderness skills and leadership skills with a deep understanding of traveling in remote environments. Not only do they learn how to set up a tent, but also how to read a map and compass and find their course where there are no trails, even when it's cold, wet, rainy, or very dry conditions. Attaining those competencies elevates the leader in everyone. As president of NOLS Sandy’s ultimate mission is to be the leading source and teacher of wilderness skills which in the process creates strong leaders who make a difference in the lives of those they encounter — in any environment.Learning to navigate unknown spaces elevates the leader in everyone. As president of NOLS Sandy’s ultimate mission is to be the leading source and teacher of wilderness skills which in the process creates strong leaders who can make a difference in the lives they encounter — in any environment.In this week's episode, you will learn how Sandy thrived in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming, how understanding nature inspires more gratitude, and the leadership skills learned from wilderness travel.LEARN MORE:>>https://nols.edu/enNSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn about the exciting partnerships of NOLS and what Sandy hopes for the school's future. (https://thens.ls/4bykQzC)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Feb 5, 2024 • 20min
Becoming More Socially Conscious (Feat. Malcolm Wood)
Building a business can feel like it steals all of your time, leaving you little energy for active advocacy and community service.For Malcolm Wood, however, entrepreneurship and advocacy can go hand-in-hand. He has built many successful businesses, and through businesses like Maximal Concepts, and its flagship restaurant, Mott 32, he leads the way in environmental advocacy, illustrating how restaurants can model sustainability.Tune in to learn how you can support the causes you love while building a successful business!You’ll learn how Wood leads the food service industry with advocacy, how to leverage influence to help change the world, and how to build a successful life through balance.LEARN MORE:>>Learn more about Wood and his projects. (https://malcolmgwood.com)>>Check out Planet Ocean to learn more about the environmental and health crisis driving Wood’s advocacy. (https://aplasticocean.movie)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>>Listen to the bonus episode to learn Wood’s plans for more advocacy-inspired business. (https://thens.ls/3SHHsGf)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop