the Learn-It-All™ podcast

America’s greatest advantage isn’t just its resources—it’s the optimism, grit, and bold thinking of its leaders. In this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Larry Aldrich—federal prosecutor, newspaper CEO, venture capitalist, and co-author of What’s Right with America—to challenge the narrative that America’s best days are behind us. Larry brings hard data, history, and personal stories to prove the nation’s greatest strengths are alive and well, whetheryou’re building rockets or leading an organization. From private sector innovation to taking real responsibility as a leader, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom for founders, executives, and anyone who wants to lead with purpose.Larry opens up about building a newspaper empire, his early involvement with groundbreaking technology, and the leadership lessons that endure across industries. Learn why optimism is more than an attitude—it’s a strategic discipline for decision-makers—and how America’s core traits can supercharge your company culture, problem-solving, and resilience.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Larry believes America’s best days are ahead—and what leaders can do to keep it that wayData-backed proof of America’s economic, educational, and cultural strengthThe five key traits that Larry says make America (and its leaders) exceptional: confidence, imagination, grit, generosity, and optimismHow optimism, not fear, helps leaders problem-solve, build teams, and drive innovationThe power of apologizing and owning your mistakes as a strategic leadership secretHow diversity of thought creates business breakthroughs (and why confirmation bias holds teams back)Timestamps: 00:00 – Larry’s call for more humanity and authenticity in leadership00:29 – Damon introduces Larry Aldrich and “What’s Right with America”01:57 – Why Larry’s long-term optimism is rooted in personal experience and SpaceX’s innovation05:23 – America’s GDP compared to Europe—how the data redefines our strengths07:26 – American rule of law as the scaffolding for trust and prosperity08:11 – Why U.S. universities are fueling the next generation of leaders09:18 – The costs of negativity, media bias, and “amygdala hijack” for founders and leaders11:21 – Larry’s career journey: engineer to lawyer to CEO and venture capitalist15:29 – Launching one of America’s earliest newspaper websites (and nearly inventing the iPhone!)18:47 – Leadership advice for navigating technological change and AI adoption21:55 – The five traits that define American success (SIGO: Confidence, Innovation, Grit, Generosity, Optimism)24:00 – How optimism changes leadership and problem-solving27:27 – The value of diversity and devil’s advocacy inside decision-making30:06 – Individual empowerment, collective action, and the American model of leadership33:42 – Favorite stories: The moon landing and Rosa Parks in Phoenix34:42 – How leaders can foster courageous, open conversations at work38:10 – Larry’s biggest mistakes—and how real apologies fuel trust41:57 – Why grit, recovery, and second chances are essential for leaders46:30 – How to build a safe environment where people share the real news48:23 – Larry’s hopes for the book’s long-term impactAbout Larry AldrichLarry Aldrich is a multi-sector leader whose career spans federal antitrust prosecution, CEO roles, newspaper publishing, First Amendment advocacy, and venture capital. With decades of experience in healthcare, media, government, and business, Larry is known for leading with integrity, bold optimism, and strategic vision. He is the co-author of What’s Right with America, a book (written with former Phoenix mayor Paul Johnson) that challenges leaders and citizens to reclaim the country’s founding strengths. Larry’s work continues to inspire leaders to lead with data, humility, and purpose.Resources & MentionsWhat’s Right with America book – on AmazonThe Optimistic American podcast / siteLarry on LinkedInWorld University RankingsPodcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.comEmail: podcast@learnit.comFollow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

What do football, AI, and the immigrant journey have in common? More than you think. In this inspiring episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Nadine Niba—CPA, MBA, best-selling author, and trailblazer who journeyed from Cameroon to Canada—to unpack the mindset and strategies behind standout careers. Nadine shares how her darkest moments unlocked resilience, why cultural intelligence is the ultimate skill in today’s AI-driven world, and how embracing an immigrant’s perspective can supercharge innovation at work. From her memoir-strategy guide “Quarterback: An Immigrant’s Guide to Corporate North America,” Nadine points out the parallels between effective quarterbacks and high-impact professionals, revealing why staying calm under pressure and building your brand are essential in every arena. Her playbook blends personal stories, hard-won lessons, and actionable frameworks for anyone who wants to get noticed and move from execution to influence—without losing humility. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Nadine’s job search breakthrough shaped her mindset for growth—and gratitude Why rejection isn’t failure: reframing “no” and boardroom setbacks as redirections The key lessons from Nadine’s immigrant journey—and the advantage it brings to teams How to articulate your value at work (without sounding arrogant) The difference between simply doing your job and building a career—and how to avoid tying your identity to titles Strategies to develop cultural intelligence and adaptability in diverse, AI-driven workplaces The “quarterback mindset” for calm decision-making and pocket presence under pressure Nadine’s hard-won mistakes and the tactical lessons to accelerate your own career journey Timestamps: 00:00 – Nadine on why cultural intelligence is the “master skill” today 00:48 – Introducing Nadine, her story, and book “Quarterback” 02:04 – Nadine’s near-return home; breakthrough moment in the job hunt 05:34 – The power of persistence and self-belief in the face of setbacks 06:56 – Advice for listeners feeling stuck, laid off, or rejected 08:39 – The sports show that inspired Nadine’s book (and lessons from the field) 13:20 – Why Nadine wrote her book, and how football strategies apply to careers 19:09 – Pocket presence: what it means for calm professionalism at work 20:50 – Nadine’s top career mistakes—and how to communicate your impact 23:58 – Cultural roots, humility, and how to get recognized without arrogance 28:47 – The difference between a job and a career: why it matters 31:55 – Can you build a career without looking like you’re “job searching” on LinkedIn? 34:15 – Tying your self-worth to the job (and how to shift your identity) 37:29 – Behind the scenes: why Nadine’s boss is a great leader 41:40 – The immigrant advantage—grit, cultural intelligence, and resilience 46:43 – How hiring managers can leverage immigrant perspectives 47:00 – Adaptability, learning, and managing disruption in the age of AI 48:57 – What pageantry taught Nadine about confidence and skill transfer 50:20 – Advice for a 12-year-old girl in Africa with Nadine’s book 52:19 – How to connect with Nadine About Nadine Niba Nadine Niba is a CPA, MBA, best-selling author, and one of Canada’s most respected immigrant professional advocates. Her journey from Cameroon to Canada weaves together perseverance, deep cultural intelligence, and a commitment to personal growth, culminating in her acclaimed book “Quarterback: An Immigrant’s Guide to Corporate North America.” Nadine is a seasoned risk advisory leader, corporate speaker, and mentor, known for blending high-level technical expertise with actionable strategies for navigating workplace dynamics, building influence, and leading with authenticity. Resources & Mentions:Nadine Niba’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadineniba/ Book: “Quarterback: An Immigrant’s Guide to Corporate North America” Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Integrity over shortcuts. Humility over ego. Courage when it counts. On this dynamic episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon Lembi welcomes Scott Arias—Navy veteran, founder, and CEO of ACE Group—for a masterclass in values-driven leadership. Scott Arias shares the compelling story of how he built a fast-growing construction company by doing things differently: leading with faith, grit, and an unwavering sense of right and wrong in an often ethically-challenged industry. From recovering after life-altering setbacks to creating a company culture where people tell him the truth and run through walls for each other, this conversation goes deep on what it takes to inspire loyalty, courage, and performance—especially when the chips are down. From practical hiring hacks to transformative lessons on responsibility, psychological safety, and giving back, consider this your field guide to building a team people actually want to belong to. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Scott Arias uses “do the right thing” as a guiding principle at every level of his organization The power of vulnerability and humility for leaders who want honest feedback and a loyal team What it really means to hire for values—and the surprising interview questions that reveal character How to build a high-trust culture with challenge coins, open financials, and “tribe” mentality Strategies for reversing victim mentalities, breaking down generational barriers, and fostering belonging Why fear and anxiety are best met with courage—and how Scott Arias leaned on faith and practical tools in both business and personal adversity   Timestamps: 00:00 – The front-page test: Scott Arias’s litmus for integrity 00:43 – Damon introduces Scott Arias and lays out the themes 02:09 – Recovering from a lost leg and addiction: faith, grit, and new perspective 06:39 – Why construction is an “unethical industry” (and how ACE is changing that) 09:30 – Vision, mission, and three core values—why they echo at every meeting 11:23 – Real-world stories of doing the right thing (even if it costs you) 15:00 – How humility and responsibility broke a cycle of mistrust 17:42 – Learning from bad bosses: why command-and-control fails 20:53 – Loyalty, generosity, and giving 10% back to the community 24:58 – Investing in staff who leave—and why the ROI lasts 28:43 – Dealing with loss and focus on gratitude (even when it hurts) 31:07 – Reframing fear and anxiety: practical steps to courage 34:09 – Pivotal moments: double down during the pandemic 38:30 – Scott Arias’s radical approach to interviews and hiring 44:31 – How ACE creates generational synergy and fairness 48:48 – Talent shows, Jeep jumps, and why fun unites the tribe 53:02 – The challenge (and necessity) of letting people go 55:04 – Building legacy through succession, bumps-and-guardrails, and leadership 58:36 – Scott Arias’s final advice for leaders: put people first  About Scott Arias Scott Arias is a Navy veteran, entrepreneur, and founder/CEO of ACE Group—one of the country’s most respected construction services organizations. After a military career cut short by injury, Scott Arias redirected his grit into building a company known for integrity, excellence, and putting faith into action. A former university instructor and champion for ethical leadership, Scott Arias is dedicated to “building the Kingdom” through business: giving 10% of profit to help his community, investing relentlessly in his people, and fostering a culture of honesty, loyalty, and courage.  Resources & Mentions: Learn more: ACE Group Website Scott Arias on LinkedIn Book: Unoffendable by Brant Hansen Assessment: Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) explained Book Reference: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman Challenge Coin Tradition: Military challenge coins explained Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

On this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon sits down with Jerrid Sebesta—keynote speaker, author of Life Undeferred, and a former award-winning TV meteorologist turned transformation coach—for a raw, inspiring conversation about breaking free from limiting beliefs and stepping boldly into the life you’re meant for. Jerrid shares his powerful personal journey, from early trauma and scarcity to discovering how to rewrite his own story with intention, alignment, and truth. Together, they unpack why our biggest breakthroughs often hide inside our greatest fears, and how anyone can architect a life that feels both bold and deeply authentic. Through real lessons and vivid storytelling, you’ll learn how mindset, self-awareness, and connection to your core values can drive real change. Damon and Jerrid cover the tactical (vision exercises, handling fear, creating alignment), the philosophical (truth vs. stories, life as school), and the emotional (healing old wounds, harnessing loss as fuel for growth). If you’re feeling stuck, scared, or just ready for your “next chapter,” this is your roadmap to becoming your most alive self. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Jerrid rewrote his story—from a life of scarcity and fear to one of purpose, ownership, and constant growth. The role of defining moments and mindset shifts in unleashing your true potential. Simple frameworks for creating a personal vision and architecting the life you want (without self-sabotage). Why fear is a sign you’re on the right path—and how to use it as fuel, not a stop sign. How to respond (not react) to challenges, difficult people, and life’s toughest events. Concrete strategies for letting go of offense, building wholeness, and becoming unoffendable. Timestamps: 00:00 – Waking up in fear—and learning to love the feeling 01:34 – Jerrid’s pivotal New Year’s Day and decision to stop playing defense 03:42 – Rewriting old scripts and mindsets from childhood 06:13 – Parenting the parent: Jerrid’s family history and emotional awareness 07:49 – The power of beliefs, consciousness, and uncovering your real truth 12:55 – Regret, curiosity, and the transformation that follows self-reflection 17:08 – Why success without alignment isn’t success (career pivots and breakthroughs) 20:06 – Alignment, authenticity, and firing yourself to live your dream 22:39 – How to build (and connect to) your personal vision 27:19 – When passion and your superpower should drive your career and income 30:49 – Living “life undeferred”—what that means, and how to face fear 33:30 – Learn to love your fear: the ultimate sign of growth 38:21 – Letting go of the outcome and building belief 45:29 – Life as school: using challenges (and difficult people) as teachers 47:07 – Three steps to handling triggers: pause, say “what a pleasure,” respond from wholeness 49:44 – The #1 thing people say to Jerrid after his talks 52:01 – Turning pain into power, walking your loved ones home, and finding meaning in loss 53:16 – Where to find more from Jerrid Sebesta  About Jerrid Sebesta: Jerrid Sebesta is a keynote speaker, author, podcast host, and transformation coach best known for his paradigm-shifting work around mindset, intention, and living boldly. After a decade in TV meteorology, Jerrid pivoted to financial coaching and now helps leaders and teams rewrite their stories through truth, alignment, and action. Drawing on a journey that began in a trailer park, parenting his own parent, and overcoming deep scarcity thinking, Jerrid’s approach is equal parts practical, honest, and motivating. His book, Life Undeferred, and his podcast, The Breakthrough Effect, continue his mission to help others step into the life they were truly meant to live.  Resources Referenced: Jerrid’s website Jerrid on LinkedIn Life Undeferred (Jerrid Sebesta's Book) Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill The Breakthrough Effect Podcast Arjun Dhingra (keynote speaker referenced by Damon) Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

97% of business deals aren’t made in isolation—they’re forged through partnerships, trust, and strategic alliances. In this dynamic episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon welcomes executive coach, serial founder, and former soldier Phil Hayes-St Clair for a candid conversation on transforming leadership and unlocking growth. From a pivotal military transition to scaling eight companies, Phil reveals the real secret behind global commerce: high-trust partnerships. Together, they unpack why most leaders struggle with alliances, how to make your people feel they belong, and the IDEAL framework that has guided Phil’s career success. If you’re curious about building high-performing teams or leveraging partnerships to scale—this episode is your playbook for leadership and growth. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why great leaders must first be great followers—and how Phil’s military experience shaped his approach How to make new hires feel at home during their first week (not just day one) Tips for hiring: Why clear communication and “frontline bias” matter more than technical skills The IDEAL partnership framework: Six steps to building alliances that last Why 97% of global commerce depends on partnership (and how you can harness it for your business) How to coach specialists into stronger communicators and why self-awareness is the ultimate leadership unlock Timestamps: 00:00 – 97% of global commerce runs on partnerships 00:31 – Meet Phil Hayes-St Clair: military to executive coach 02:05 – Great leaders are great followers first 03:30 – Phil’s identity shift: brotherhood to banking cubicle 05:08 – What Phil looks for in leaders: perceptiveness + humanity 07:12 – From “feeling new” to feeling like you belong (school metaphor) 08:09 – How to onboard new team members in their first week 10:16 – Interviewing for authenticity & finding your next play 12:11 – How to build employees up for their “next success” 14:17 – Why doubling down on strengths beats chasing passions 15:59 – What Phil hires for: communication and frontline mindset 18:40 – Can specialists become better communicators? 21:00 – Why confused teams are a communication problem (not theirs!) 24:01 – Leaders: are you setting your team up to do their “life’s best work”? 26:28 – Making mistakes as a leader: how vulnerability builds trust 29:18 – New leadership role? Listen first, then lead 32:41 – Partnership as the key growth lever; IDEAL framework 37:06 – IDEAL stands for Intent, Dual benefit, Era, Allies, Landing the first win 42:20 – How 97% of commerce gets done through partnership 45:08 – Why most partnerships fail: no intent, no first win 49:13 – The feeling of a “first win”—and why your partner should look like a hero 51:17 – Coaching leaders and teams to build win-win partnerships About Phil Hayes-St Clair Phil Hayes-St Clair is an executive coach, serial founder, and former soldier whose career spans military service, eight company launches, and pioneering partnership frameworks across global industries. After a formative transition from the armed forces to the corporate world, Phil developed his signature approach: great leaders are great followers first. Today, he coaches CEOs and leadership teams to develop high-impact cultures and leverage ecosystems for scale. Phil is the founder of the Partnership Lab and shares playbooks, solo episodes, and practical frameworks through his site, philhsc.com. Resources & Mentions: Phil Hayes-St Clair’s website and partnership playbooks Phil Hayes-St Clair on LinkedIn The Alliance by Reid Hoffman (link) The Three Alarms by Eric Partaker (link) Learning Leader podcast by Ryan Hawk (link) Phil Hayes-St Clair solo episodes + frameworks Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Winning moments in life and leadership aren’t just about the scoreboard—they’re about resilience, trust, and lifting others up. In this unforgettable episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with legendary high school basketball coach Jim Johnson, the storyteller behind one of sports’ most inspiring viral moments: the “J-Mac Game.” Coach Johnson pulls back the curtain on the night a team manager on the autism spectrum, Jason “J-Mac” McElwain, became a national sensation after an incredible scoring spree—and the lessons about vulnerability, culture, and servant leadership that came from it. In a conversation packed with emotion, honesty, and actionable wisdom, Johnson reveals how leaders can make a lifelong difference by putting people first, clarifying values, and building teams on trust and example. From candid stories about championship heartbreaks to practical tools every new leader can use, this episode will move you to tears and motivate you to grow. In this episode, you’ll learn: How vulnerability and humility became the turning point in Coach Jim Johnson’s coaching journey—and why saying “I don’t have all the answers” inspired his teams. The behind-the-scenes story of the J-Mac miracle moment—and what it taught an entire community about inclusion, recognition, and hope. The 7 keys to effective leadership—including clarifying your mission, building trust with intention, and leading by example. Why aligning words and actions (and having non-negotiables) is essential to earning real credibility as a leader. How to catch people doing the right thing—and why specific, meaningful praise can reshape culture. The daily non-negotiable habits Coach Johnson uses to anchor his own leadership and energy, from meditation to morning routines. Practical strategies for serving others, building “we over me” cultures, and staying curious at every stage. Timestamps: 00:00 – The night J-Mac’s mother brought Coach Johnson to tears 01:32 – Where the J-Mac story begins 03:38 – What made Jason “J-Mac” McElwain different 06:26 – How to lead tough conversations and give dignity 08:44 – Leadership vulnerability: Coaching without all the answers 11:04 – The transformation: From know-it-all to learn-it-all 12:54 – J-Mac’s senior night and the unforgettable game 15:12 – Six three-pointers, 20 points, and a crowd on their feet 18:00 – How the J-Mac video went viral (and you can watch it too!) 19:33 – Coach Johnson’s 7 leadership keys 21:14 – Why leading yourself comes first 23:26 – Building habits and daily non-negotiables 27:11 – Meditation, time blocking, and personal growth 27:47 – Intentional trust plans and aligning words with actions 30:20 – Earning trust with credibility and consistency 33:03 – “We” culture vs. “Me” culture (and when to cut talented players) 38:35 – Communication as kindness: Giving clear, honest feedback 43:08 – Chief Reminder Officer: Living and teaching the mission 45:07 – Current challenges leaders face (and why culture is the new currency) 47:08 – The importance of curiosity, humility, and lifelong learning 50:19 – Legacy, servant leadership, and how to make a difference 52:01 – Relationship-building tip: The personal video message challenge About Jim Johnson Coach Jim Johnson is a celebrated former high school varsity basketball coach from Greece Athena High School in Rochester, NY, best known for leading the team through one of the most memorable nights in sports with the “J-Mac Game.” Over decades, he transformed struggling programs, winning six championshipsand inspiring countless players and leaders along the way. Now a sought-after author, leadership presenter, and keynote speaker, Coach Johnson shares his message on trust, culture, vulnerability, and shining the light on others with audiences nationwide. Resources & Mentions: Website: coachjimjohnson.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjimjohnson/ https://coachjimjohnson.com/miracle-night/ — Watch the full viral moment highlighted in the podcast Coach Jim’s Book: “A Coach and a Miracle” Tony Robbins — Cited as an influence by Coach Johnson Jim Rohn Zig Ziglar John Wooden Dr. Stephen Covey, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” Marshall Goldsmith Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Mistakes aren’t just “Oops” moments—when embraced, they’re the blueprint for growth. On this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon Lembi sits down with Mark Graban—consultant, author of "The Mistakes That Make Us," and host of the My Favorite Mistake podcast—to dive deep into the transformative power of mistakes in business and life. Drawing from decades of experience across healthcare, manufacturing, and tech, Mark shares why organizations that reward honesty (instead of punishing errors) boost innovation, trust, and performance. They discuss how leaders can model vulnerability, the cost of a punitive mistake culture, tools for mistake-proofing your teams, and stories that prove humility isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Expect practical frameworks, actionable stories, and a fresh take on why “failing smart” builds learn-it-all cultures that win. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why top-performing organizations treat mistakes as learning opportunities—starting from the top Mark’s framework for creating psychological safety so teams speak up before issues metastasize How Toyota’s culture of “learn from mistakes” transformed Mark’s approach to leadership The real costs of punishing error—lower quality, morale, and higher turnover—and how to flip the script Small experiments vs. big risks: The Toyota approach to innovation and safe “failing” Concrete tactics for leaders: how to respond to mistakes, give fair feedback, and put processes in place to prevent error Timestamps: 00:00 – Why successful people make (and learn from) more mistakes  01:25 – How punishing mistakes backfires and breeds secrecy 02:33 – Leaders setting the tone: modeling vulnerability 04:00 – The three essential behaviors that cultivate a learn-it-all culture  05:31 – Mark’s most memorable podcasting slip-up (and what he learned)  06:45 – How to build small, system-based safeguards to prevent repeat mistakes  10:11 – Mark’s roots: what GM, Dell, and Toyota taught him about human error and systems  12:23 – Pivoting from a punitive to a learning-first culture (and lessons from manufacturing)  15:06 – Advice for new leaders: The myth of perfection, authenticity, and humility in action  17:16 – When (and how) to run low-risk “test-and-learn” experiments 19:12 – Case Study: The real business cost of firing people for honest errors  23:17 – Mistake-proofing in healthcare and life-or-death stakes 27:22 – Checklists, error-proofing technology, and the “crocodiles in the water” mindset  29:00 – How to check your assumptions as a leader  32:01 – Debunking the myth that only executives have the best ideas 34:07 – Common patterns from hundreds of “favorite mistake” interviews  39:46 – Mark’s personal evolution: forgiving yourself, growing from mistakes  About Mark Graban Mark Graban is a leading expert on organizational learning, psychological safety, and continuous improvement. With an industrial engineering background, Mark brings decades of experience from the auto industry (General Motors), Dell, and consulting for healthcare and tech companies. He is the author of “The Mistakes That Make Us: Cultivating a Culture of Learning and Innovation” and hosts the acclaimed "My Favorite Mistake" podcast, where global leaders open up about how their errors fueled growth. Mark is known for his practical frameworks and engaging storytelling that help companies turn vulnerability and candor into true innovation. Resources & Mentions: Learn more at www.markgraban.com Connect on LinkedIn The Mistakes That Make Us—Mark’s Book My Favorite Mistake Podcast Practicing Lean—Book  The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande Mark’s episode featuring Damon: https://www.markgraban.com/mistake320-damon-lembi-business-growth-mistake/ Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

What happens when you decide not just to dream of adventure, but actually buy the one-way ticket? On this inspiring episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon sits down with Valerie Bowden—social worker turned multi-startup founder and CEO of Cradle—to unpack a journey that defies the expected. Tired of the 9-to-5 grind, Valerie quit, moved to Ethiopia, and learned (sometimes the very hard way) that resilience, self-trust, and the ability to do hard things daily are the ultimate leadership skills. Together, they cover what travel really teaches us, the raw reality of failed startups, and how reframing failure builds grit—even sharing lessons learned from devastating mistakes with cash flow and investors. From building confidence with daily risk-taking to why creating jobs (not just charities) drives change, this episode is packed with real stories, unfiltered advice, and practical takeaways—whether you’re a first-time founder, a corporate escape artist, or simply need permission to take the leap. In this episode, you’ll learn: What travel teaches you that a classroom can’t: How leaving her comfort zone built Valerie’s confidence, adaptability—and a lifelong ability to handle pressure. Why failing forward is the only way: Valerie shares her hardest startup lessons and how to reframe failure as “winning or learning.” Tips for handling extreme pressure: The mindset shifts and practical boundaries that keep leaders strong under stress. Outsourcing secrets for faster growth: When, why, and how to find (and train) the right offshore talent—and avoid common mistakes. Who should (and shouldn’t) start a company: Valerie’s clear-eyed advice for anyone considering the jump from corporate to startup founder. How to grow leadership as you scale: The processes, mindset, and relationship-building moves that matter most when you go from solo to 120 employees—and beyond.  Timestamps 00:00 – Valerie’s take: “Travel is the most responsible thing you can do” 00:57 – Meet Valerie Bowden and her leap from social work to Africa 02:24 – Where’d the courage come from to quit and travel solo? 04:01 – Family and society’s doubts—how Valerie handled no support 05:11 – Hard-won lessons learned backpacking Africa 06:16 – Why jobs, not charity, create lasting change 07:26 – Startup attempts (and failures) in Ethiopia 08:33 – Separating self-worth from startup outcomes 09:29 – Valerie’s advice for finding your identity after failure 11:02 – The nightmare investor story—and lessons learned 12:57 – Masterminds, mentors, and not going it alone 13:59 – Launching Cradle… at 8 months pregnant 15:23 – There’s never a “right time” for a leap 16:00 – Valerie’s practice: doing something hard every day 18:18 – How to stop caring what other people think 20:13 – What the corporate world did teach Valerie after all 21:18 – Who should—and shouldn’t—become a founder 23:26 – How Valerie handles the pressures of leadership 25:17 – The $25k lesson: why good cash flow is non-negotiable 27:03 – What Cradle does and how it’s disrupting outsourcing 29:39 – How and when to outsource (without the usual pitfalls) 34:09 – Scaling from 20 to 120 employees—new leadership, new processes 36:16 – Is AI a threat or an asset for outsourcing teams? 38:49 – Cradle’s vision for 10,000 Africa-based team members 40:10 – What Valerie hopes her daughter learns from her journey 41:44 – Small steps—the only way to big leaps About Valerie Bowden Valerie Bowden is the founder and CEO of Cradle, a U.S.-Africa outsourcing business that helps American companies unlock affordable, skilled talent across the African continent. After burning out in her corporate job, Valerie Bowden bought a one-way ticket to Ethiopia, backpacked solo across Africa, and never looked back—eventually living there for eight years and launching multiple startups. Along the way, she discovered the power of jobs over aid, survived failed ventures, learned tough lessons from investor stumbles, and built Cradle into a thriving, seven-figure business with 120 team members. Valerie is passionately committed to changing the narrative around Africa, job creation, and what it means to be a resilient, purpose-driven leader. Resources & Mentions Crdle.com – Valerie’s company (site includes a lead magnet on outsourcing) Valerie Bowden on LinkedIn Acquisition.com (Alex & Leila Hormozi) – Company Valerie admired and referenced in her outreach example Oprah’s podcasts – Inspired Valerie through a tough period Monday.com – Project management tool discussed for scaling team processes Get Authentic Podcast with Marcus Ogden – Damon and Valerie’s mutual connection Podcast Contact Information Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Helping people grow, building teams that win, and leading through rapid change—business success doesn’t have to be complicated. In this energizing episode, Damon sits down with legendary operator and leadership coach Cameron Herold to reveal the core skills every leader needs—but most never learn. From skyrocketing 1-800-GOT-JUNK’s growth to founding the COO Alliance, Cameron Herold shares field-tested lessons on interviewing, delegation, building culture, and coaching your team. You’ll learn actionable frameworks for hiring, developing talent, running better meetings, and leveraging AI—plus the mindset shift that turns managers into true leaders. Packed with real stories from hiring 8,000 student painters in six weeks to transforming toxic teams, this episode is your practical playbook for scaling yourself, your team, and your business. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your #1 job as a leader is to grow your people (and how to start today) The power of situational leadership: how to adapt your style based on each team member’s needs and projects Why delegation unlocks scale—and how to finally get out of the weeds (hint: delegate everything but your genius) How to build a culture that drives results and stays free of toxic talent The mindset and tools needed to future-proof your team in the era of AI  Timestamps: 00:00 – Why business is simpler than you think 00:47 – How Cameron grew 1-800-GOT-JUNK from 14 to 3,100+ employees 02:14 – “A leader’s job is to get results through others”—Cameron’s College Pro Painters story 04:01 – Why people struggle with interviewing, meetings, and core management skills 05:11 – The danger of “30 years’ experience” vs. real growth 06:25 – Group interviews and the “threat of reference check” (TORC) method 08:38 – How to spot a victim mentality (and why introspection matters in hiring) 10:24 – The difference between theory and proven experience 13:30 – Why toxic high performers destroy organizations 16:27 – What most leaders get wrong about delegation 19:28 – How to delegate things outside your own expertise (and who to bring in) 21:48 – Helping new managers win by embracing vulnerability, coaching, and connection 24:44 – The essentials of situational leadership (and why it’s every leader’s secret weapon) 28:50 – How to promote and onboard new leaders for success 30:17 – Why curiosity and “learning time off” are now nonnegotiable 35:03 – Leading for the whole company, not just your function 38:10 – Core values in action: Calling out leaders when they break them 41:18 – Disruption and simplicity in the age of AI 45:03 – Skills, confidence, connections: What it really takes to grow as a leader  About Cameron Herold Cameron Herold is a globally recognized business growth expert, author, and the founder of the COO Alliance—the top community for second-in-command leaders. Nicknamed the “CEO Whisperer,” Cameron was instrumental in scaling 1-800-GOT-JUNK from just 14 staff to over 3,100 and $100M+ in revenue. He’s a six-time author, award-winning keynote speaker, and creator of the Invest in Your Leaders program. Cameron’s legacy includes coaching high-growth organizations on core leadership skills, situational management, and building companies where people love to work.  Resources & Mentions: Cameron’s Website  Cameron’s LinkedIn Who Not How by Dan Sullivan & Ben Hardy Ken Blanchard & Paul Hersey – Situational Leadership / The One Minute Manager There’s an AI for That – AI Tool Directory The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni COO Alliance Invest in Your Leaders Program Cameron’s upcoming book: “Grandmother’s Timeless Tales on Business Success” 1-800-GOT-JUNK  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates. 

Burnout. Money stress. Vulnerability at work. On this powerful episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon sits down with renowned psychotherapist, keynote speaker, and author Joyce Marter for an unfiltered conversation about modern leadership and mental health. Joyce shares her deeply personal journey—building (and nearly losing) a successful mental health company, facing “cash flow hell,” and ultimately emerging with fresh insight on humility, resilience, and the true intersection of well-being and wealth. Together, Damon and Joyce dive into practical strategies for navigating chronic stress, fostering trust through transparency, and shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, both at work and at home. Packed with relatable stories, actionable self-care and leadership tools, and candid talk about everything from AI anxiety to money myths, this conversation is an essential listen for any leader who wants to thrive (not just survive) in today’s high-stress world. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why self-worth is the real foundation for building net worth—and how to boost it Daily self-care rituals leaders can use to boost resilience and refill their “cup” How to spot burnout and mental health red flags within your team The power of transparency and vulnerability to deepen trust and strengthen culture Specific strategies for shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset The crucial link between financial stress, mental health, and professional performance Timestamps: 00:00 – What is burnout? Mental health realities for leaders 01:18 – How do you show up for your team if you’re overwhelmed yourself? 02:41 – A 10-minute self-care routine to reset your day 04:40 – What to do after traumatic news triggers morning anxiety 06:13 – Joyce’s journey: From therapist to company founder (and near-bankruptcy) 08:14 – The reality of “cash flow hell” and leadership humility 11:55 – Why you shouldn’t go through hard times alone 12:28 – Grit, values, and sticking with your mission through crisis 14:07 – Taking baby steps and celebrating small wins 14:40 – Should leaders be transparent about organizational struggles? 16:59 – The signs of burnout and mental health struggles in your team 21:31 – How to have “brave conversations” when you notice something’s wrong 25:10 – Why psychological safety matters for team engagement 26:13 – The hidden impact of financial stress in the workplace 28:32 – How to help team members stuck in a negative money mindset 31:27 – Real-life stories: Moving from scarcity to abundance 36:26 – Self-worth comes before net worth—why it matters 42:15 – Supporting financial literacy and empowerment at work 44:50 – AI anxiety: What leaders can do to ease uncertainty 45:28 – Joyce’s final advice for elevating your own and your team’s mental health 46:28 – Where to find Joyce and her resources  About Joyce Marter Joyce Marter is a licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, a celebrated keynote speaker, and author of The Financial Mindset Fix: A Mental Fitness Program for an Abundant Life. Joyce is passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health and guiding leaders and organizations in strengthening well-being, navigating burnout, and building “mental wealth.” She founded, scaled, and sold a major counseling company across three states and now trains audiences worldwide at the intersection of psychology, money, and leadership. Resources & Mentions: Website: https://www.joyce-marter.com/ LinkedIn: Joyce Marter Joyce’s book: https://www.joyce-marter.com/book/the-financial-mindset-fix/ Forbes Contributor Profile: Joyce Marter Joyce’s Speaker/Training Services: https://www.joyce-marter.com/presentations-topics/  Podcast Contact Information: Website: www.learnit.com Email: podcast@learnit.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.