Breakfast Leadership Show

Introductions and background @ 0:00 Michael and Schuyler introduce themselves and discuss Schuyler's background, including his time in the military, his MBA, and how he got into the real estate and laundromat businesses. Schuyler shares that he has a family, multiple businesses, and around 70 employees. Schuyler's new book @ 12:40 Schuyler discusses his upcoming book "The Steady Leader", which focuses on leadership principles and models he has developed through his diverse experiences. The book is divided into three sections: leading yourself, leading a team, and leading a company. Schuyler explains the importance of being "combat ready" as a leader by being mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy. The power of gratitude @ 26:58 Michael and Schuyler discuss the power of gratitude, with Schuyler emphasizing that starting the day with gratitude can "send the darkness running" and set a positive tone. They agree that the language we use, whether it's "I get to" versus "I have to", can have a significant impact. Recap and next steps @ 27:49 The conversation wraps up with Schuyler providing information on where people can find him and his book online, and Michael thanking Schuyler for his service and leadership. Book:  Steadyleader.com wgrouprealestate.com LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/schuylerwilliamson/

AI Security in High-Risk Sectors In a recent conversation, Alec and I dove into the critical role of AI security, especially in high-risk sectors like healthcare and banking. Alec stressed that AI must be secure and aligned with business strategies while ensuring governance, risk management, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity remain top priorities. I couldn’t agree more—AI in the wrong hands or without proper safeguards is a ticking time bomb. Sensitive data needs protection, and businesses must stay ahead of evolving regulations. We also touched on the growing need for private AI solutions, given the rising threats of cyberattacks like prompt injections. Cybersecurity and AI in Organizations Our discussion expanded into cybersecurity and AI adoption within organizations. Unvetted AI solutions pose significant risks, making internal development and continuous monitoring essential. Alec’s company, Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc., deploys private AI within clients' firewalls, reinforcing security through governance and compliance measures. One key takeaway? Awareness is everything. Many organizations jump into AI without securing their systems first. I was particularly interested in the “aha moments” Alec’s clients experience when they see AI-driven security solutions in action. AI Governance and Confidentiality Concerns Alec shared a governance issue where a company implemented Microsoft Copilot—only to discover it unintentionally exposed confidential employee data. This highlighted a major concern: AI needs strict guardrails. Alec advocated for a “belt and suspenders” approach—limiting system access, assigning AI agents to specific groups, and avoiding over-reliance on super users who could inadvertently misuse AI. The lesson? AI governance isn’t optional; it’s a necessity. AI Applications in Call Centers AI’s potential spans across industries, and call centers are a prime example. Alec described a client who leveraged AI to analyze 150,000 call transcripts, leading to a 30% reduction in call length and an additional 30% drop in overall call volume—all thanks to AI-driven website improvements. Beyond customer service, AI is making waves in investment research, analyzing earnings calls and regulatory filings. I even shared a fun hypothetical—using AI to predict the Toronto Blue Jays’ performance—proving that AI’s applications go beyond business into fields like sports analytics. AI Adoption, Security, and Privacy Wrapping up, Alec and I discussed the double-edged sword of AI adoption. While AI presents massive opportunities, it also comes with security, ethical, and privacy risks. Alec emphasized the need for strong leadership in AI implementation, ensuring data quality remains a top priority. I pointed out that the fear of missing out (FOMO) on AI can lead companies to make reckless decisions—often at the cost of security. Alec’s company specializes in AI security solutions that safeguard against data breaches and attacks on Large Language Models, reinforcing the importance of a strategic, security-first approach to AI adoption.   Alec Crawford is Founder & CEO of Artificial Intelligence Risk, Inc., a company that accelerates enterprise Gen AI adoption - safely. He has been working with AI since the 1980’s when he built neutral networks from scratch for his Harvard senior thesis. He is a thought leader for Gen AI with a blog at aicrisk.com and podcast called AI Risk Reward. He has more than 30 years of experience on Wall Street with his last role being Partner and Chief Risk Officer for Investments at Lord Abbett. linkedin.com/in/aleccrawford Our Story Dedicated to shaping the future.   At AI Risk, Inc., we are dedicated to shaping the future of AI governance, risk management, and compliance. With AI poised to become a cornerstone of business operations, we recognize the need for software solutions that ensure its safety, reliability, and regulatory adherence. Learn more Our Journey ​ Founded in response to the burgeoning adoption of AI without proper safeguards, AI Risk, Inc. seeks to pioneer a new era of responsible AI usage. Our platform, AIR GRCC, empowers companies to manage AI effectively, mitigating risks and ensuring regulatory compliance across all AI models. ​ Why Choose AI Risk, Inc.? ​ Comprehensive Solutions: We offer an all-encompassing platform for AI governance, risk management, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity. Expertise: With extensive experience across industries and global regulations, we provide tailored solutions to meet diverse business needs. Futureproofing: As AI regulations evolve, our platform remains updated and adaptable, ensuring businesses stay ahead of compliance requirements. Cybersecurity Focus: Recognizing the unique challenges of AI cybersecurity, we provide cutting-edge solutions to protect against threats and ensure data integrity. ​​ Get Started with AI Risk, Inc. ​ Whether you're a large corporation or a budding startup, AI Risk, Inc. is your partner in navigating the complexities of AI implementation securely and responsibly. Join us in shaping a future where AI drives innovation without compromising integrity or security.

Innovation as a Catalyst for Growth Bruce and I had a deep dive into the role of innovation in driving organizational success, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses that have reached maturity. Bruce underscored the necessity of renewal—companies can't afford to stay stagnant. Not every innovation initiative will hit the mark, but every attempt offers valuable lessons. I couldn’t agree more. Innovation isn't just about flashy new ideas; it’s about fostering a mindset of curiosity and resilience. People are at the core of innovation, and the right team can make or break an organization’s ability to evolve. We both recognized that hiring the right people is one of the toughest challenges leaders face, but beyond that, organizations need to cultivate a culture that encourages innovation. It’s not just about having the right tools or processes—it’s about creating an environment where ideas can thrive. Innovation and Workplace Engagement The reality is, workplace engagement is at an all-time low. I shared my concerns about the lack of innovation in many workplaces, referencing a Gartner study that found only 2 out of 10 employees are fully engaged. That’s a crisis. When organizations fail to innovate, they don’t just lose competitive advantage—they lose their people. Innovation isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for progress. Leaders must be intentional about encouraging, investing in, and even demanding innovation. A practical step? Ask job candidates about their experience with innovation in their current workplace. Are they encouraged to think creatively? Do they have the freedom to test new ideas? Bruce echoed these sentiments, reinforcing the idea that engagement and innovation go hand in hand. Rethinking Creativity in the Accounting Industry Most people wouldn’t associate accounting with creativity, but Bruce and I explored why it’s critical for the industry. I emphasized the importance of curiosity and thinking beyond the traditional numbers game, while Bruce pointed out the role of pattern recognition and strategic inquisitiveness. It’s not enough to be curious—you have to direct that curiosity toward solving real-world problems. The firms that embrace this mindset will be the ones that thrive in an evolving market. Intentionality, Motivation, and Avoiding Burnout Another major topic we tackled was workplace motivation. Burnout is a productivity killer, and leaders need to recognize that being overwhelmed stifles both creativity and innovation. Organizations must create environments where employees feel supported, empowered, and able to navigate challenges effectively. Self-motivation plays a crucial role here. The most innovative and successful people are those who take ownership of their growth and learning. Bruce and I agreed that renewal and change within an organization can be tough, but they’re necessary for long-term success. It’s about shifting the mindset from resistance to reinvention. Bruce’s Work and Thought Leadership We also discussed Bruce’s extensive work in innovation consulting. His book No Excuses, Innovation and his co-authored work Serial Innovators (both published by Stanford University Press) offer incredible insights for leaders looking to drive change. For those wanting to connect with Bruce and dive deeper into his work, his website and LinkedIn are great resources. At the end of the day, innovation is about mindset, culture, and people. If organizations want to stay relevant, they need to embrace continuous learning, encourage experimentation, and create workplaces where people feel engaged and inspired to contribute their best ideas.  Spanning a career at the intersection of business and technology, Bruce Vojak has experienced and explored innovation purposefully and variously, first established as a successful technology practitioner and executive in industry and later, in academia, conducting groundbreaking research on the practice of breakthrough innovation across a broad cross-section of large, mature companies and industries. He is co-author of "No-Excuses Innovation: Strategies for Small- and Medium-Sized Mature Enterprises" (Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2022), "Serial Innovators: How Individuals Create and Deliver Breakthrough Innovations in Mature Firms" (Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 2012). A Senior Fellow with The Conference Board, he has served on the boards of JVA Partners, Micron Industries Corporation, and Midtronics, Inc. Before founding Breakthrough Innovation Advisors, LLC (https://www.breakthrough-innovation-advisors.com/), Bruce served as Associate Dean and Adjunct Professor in the top-ranked Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign. Earlier, he was Director of Advanced Technology at Motorola, held research and business development positions at Amoco Corporation and was on the research staff at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. He holds BS, MS, and PhD degrees in engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an MBA from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. SOCIAL MEDIA LINK linkedin.com/in/bvojak

Adam Malone is a renowned keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and a father of five. In this episode, he shares insights on developing practical authenticity as a leader. Malone discusses how he learned to balance his inner drive for success with empathy and emotional intelligence, taming his "inner jerk" to become a more effective and respected leader. He covers topics such as building trust and empathy, managing teams across time zones, and the importance of soft skills for long-term success.   Bio: Adam Malone is a keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and father of five. He is known for his expertise in helping leaders and teams develop resilience, tenacity, and grit to achieve sustained high performance. Malone's insights on practical authenticity, emotional intelligence, and building trust-based cultures have made him a sought-after speaker and advisor. Resources: Text OPERATOR to 33777 website: https://thetenaciousoperator.com/profile/posts LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-malone-a9100ba/ Leadership, Learning, and Team Building Adam and Michael discussed the differences between being learned and being taught, with Michael emphasizing the importance of practical application in leadership roles. Adam shared his background in the corporate world and his transition into leadership consulting, citing his realization that he couldn't sustain his current pace and needed to build stronger teams. The conversation was described as organic and conversational, with Michael planning to sprinkle in topics about retention and culture. The meeting was expected to last about 20-25 minutes. Transitioning From Individual to Leader Adam and Michael discussed their personal journeys and the challenges of transitioning from individual contributors to team leaders. Adam shared his realization that he had been putting himself at the center of every decision, rather than empowering his team. He emphasized the importance of building trust and understanding that leadership involves delegating tasks and empowering others. Michael agreed, noting that many leaders struggle with this transition due to a lack of training and support. Both agreed that this shift in mindset and approach is crucial for effective leadership. Leadership, Trust, and Employee Retention Michael and Adam discussed the importance of leadership and trust in retaining employees and achieving success in organizations. Michael emphasized the need for leaders to understand their teams and provide them with the necessary tools and support to excel. He also highlighted the significance of having a strong operations leader who can see the big picture and make informed decisions. The conversation also touched on the challenges of retaining employees and the need for leaders to trust their people. The discussion concluded with a light-hearted reference to the upcoming Super Bowl. Employee Retention and Economic Uncertainty Michael and Adam discussed the importance of retention in organizations. Michael emphasized the need for action beyond just caring for employees, and highlighted the role of trust, communication, and empowering employees to be their best. Adam shared a Gallup statistic indicating that the number of employees looking to leave their jobs is still high, suggesting that companies are not yet fully recovered from the Great Resignation. He also expressed his opinion that companies are still cautious about posting roles due to economic uncertainty. The conversation ended with a sense of anticipation for potential future challenges in employee retention. Hybrid Work Models and Employee Trust Adam and Michael discussed the challenges organizations face in determining their hybrid work model. They agreed that organizations must be clear and consistent in their messaging about whether they are in-office, remote, or hybrid. They also highlighted the importance of avoiding hypocrisy in leadership, as it can erode trust and create resentment among employees. Michael further emphasized the need for organizations to consider their employees' financial well-being, as financial stress can lead to high attrition rates. Adam concluded by stressing the importance of organizations figuring out who they are and being consistent in their approach to work models. Building Trust and Employee Growth Adam discussed the importance of trust in organizations, emphasizing that it cannot be forced but rather earned through traits like empathy, authenticity, and logic. He highlighted the significance of understanding employees' needs, such as income stability and growth, and validating their feelings. Adam also stressed the importance of promoting employees based on their readiness and development of necessary skills, rather than just granting raises or promotions. He concluded by emphasizing the need for leaders to invest in their employees' growth and future opportunities. Investing in Employee Development for Retention Adam and Michael discussed the importance of investing in employee development to improve retention rates. Adam emphasized that simply offering more money when requested is not a sustainable solution. Michael used the analogy of Christmas presents to illustrate how short-lived the satisfaction from a salary increase can be. They agreed that investing in employees' professional development, such as pairing them with mentors and working on projects, can lead to better prepared and skilled employees who are more likely to stay with the organization. Adam also shared his personal experience of having a successful team member who was offered a promotion elsewhere, but chose to stay due to the opportunities provided by the organization. Work Culture's Impact on Retention Adam and Michael discussed the importance of a supportive work culture and the impact it has on employee retention. Adam shared his personal experience of choosing to stay in a company he loves over a potentially lucrative offer elsewhere, emphasizing the value of a positive work environment. Michael echoed this sentiment, recalling his own experiences during the dot-com era and the importance of finding a company that offers growth opportunities. They concluded the conversation by discussing how to find more information about Adam's work and his company, The Tenacious Operator. Addressing Debt and Retention Challenges Adam and Michael discussed the challenges faced by many Americans due to high levels of debt and the subsequent impact on their quality of life. Michael highlighted the importance of retention in organizations, as poor retention can lead to a decline in product and service quality. They also discussed the difficulties faced by certain industries, such as grain elevators and health insurance underwriters, in attracting and retaining younger generations.

Are you feeling the weight of inefficiency in your business? You're not alone. Many entrepreneurs struggle with time-wasting processes that drain energy and resources. But what if we told you that a few small changes could lead to significant gains? First, take a closer look at your workflows. Streamlining tasks can save precious time. Consider using automation tools. Think of them as your new best friends. They can handle repetitive tasks, leaving you free for the creative stuff. Next, engage with your team. Regular feedback can uncover hidden bottlenecks. A little communication can go a long way. Lastly, don't forget to measure your success. Tracking progress helps you identify what works and what doesn't. Remember, efficiency isn't just about doing things faster. It's about doing things smarter. So, could your business benefit from being a little more efficient? Absolutely. Embrace change and watch your productivity soar. Explore insights and strategies for success with Breakfast Leadership Network — your trusted source for leadership articles, shows, and beyond. Subscribe today to stay informed and inspired!     LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/michaeldlevitt X: https://X.com/bfastleadership Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bfastleadership/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@breakfastleadership?sub_confirmation=1 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bfastleadership

Summary     Discussing Workforce and Company Success In the meeting, Michael and Bryan discussed their work and the importance of strong teams in creating great companies. Bryan, the owner and CEO of Peoplyst, a workforce consultancy, shared his experience in the people space for almost three decades. The conversation then shifted to Bryan's book, which Michael expressed interest in discussing further. The conversation ended with Michael's intention to delve deeper into the book's content and its relevance to creating thriving companies.     Building a Vanguard Team Culture Bryan discussed the concept of a 'vanguard team' or ' super team,' which refers to individuals at the forefront of society, pushing boundaries and exploring new territories. He emphasized the importance of a growth mindset and a strong team culture for such teams. Bryan also mentioned a free assessment in his book that scores individuals on two axes: growth mindset and team strength. He explained that the highest score, a 75, would place someone in the vanguard quadrant. Bryan also discussed the characteristics of other quadrants, such as the ' monolith,' which represents teams with a fixed mindset but strong team culture. He used the example of newspapers that failed to adapt to digital technology, contrasting them with companies like the Huffington Post that thrived by embracing change. Bryan concluded that his book provides a 6-step methodology for building a vanguard team, starting with mindset.     Mindset's Role in Personal and Professional Growth Michael and Bryan discussed the importance of mindset in personal and professional development. Michael shared his journey with burnout and how shifting his mindset helped him. Bryan emphasized the significance of mindset in opening up opportunities and overcoming limitations. They also discussed the mission concept, with Bryan suggesting that a clear mission is essential for an organization's success. Both agreed that having the right mindset makes the other steps easier and helps navigate ever-changing times.     Microsoft and Blackberry's Evolution Discussed Bryan discussed the evolution of Microsoft and Blackberry, highlighting how both companies underwent significant changes in their mission and mindset to adapt to new market demands. He emphasized the importance of having a growth mindset and a strong team to pivot and reimagine a brand. Bryan also mentioned Satya Nadella's role in Microsoft's transformation, leading to increased success. Michael agreed with Bryan's points, noting the opportunities that arise from such shifts in mindset and mission.     Continuous Innovation and Adaptability Michael and Bryan discussed the importance of continuous innovation and adaptability in business. They highlighted the example of Circuit City, which failed to adapt and eventually went out of business despite being a successful company in the past. They emphasized organizations' need for a roadmap or game plan to navigate challenges and listen to their people for valuable insights. They also stressed the importance of communication and the ability to pivot and be agile in response to changes in the market. Bryan mentioned his upcoming book, "People Problem Solved," which aims to provide a handbook for managers and leaders to help them solve their own people problems.     Rebranding: Lessons From Bryan's Experience Bryan shared his experience rebranding his company from Mercury Performance Group to Peoplyst due to a trademark dispute. He initially trademarked the name and logo to protect his company's national and international presence. Still, he received a cease and desist letter from a European company claiming infringement on their trademark. Bryan rebranded his company after a lengthy legal battle to avoid further legal issues. The new name, Peoplyst, has been well-received and surpassed the previous company's top-of-funnel and mid-funnel marketing. Bryan emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability in business and how it can lead to better outcomes. Michael agreed with Bryan's story and shared his experience working for a nonprofit that was going through a rebranding process.     Bryan Offers Book and Future Interview Michael and Bryan had a productive conversation about Bryan's organization, Peoplyst. Bryan offered Michael's listeners a free copy of his book, "The Vanguard Edge," by emailing Bryan.Howard@peoplyst.com  with their mailing address. Michael expressed his appreciation for Bryan's time and generosity. They also discussed a future interview where Bryan would interview Michael. Michael mentioned that he had booked a time for this interview. They ended the conversation positively, with Michael promising to send the links to the edited conversation once it's live.   https://peoplyst.com/ Dive into The Vanguard Edge and discover Bryan Howard's groundbreaking approach to team development. This book is a treasure trove of insights and strategies designed to transform how teams operate and excel. Within this book, you’ll discover: How to cultivate a growth-oriented mindset that forms the foundation of a high-performing team. Strategies for defining a clear and compelling team mission that aligns with your goals. Techniques to structure your team for maximum efficiency, fostering innovation and adaptability. The art of crafting and communicating a powerful team message that resonates and inspires. Methods to measure and enhance team performance, turning metrics into a roadmap for success. The Vanguard Edge is more than just a book; it's a guide to achieving operational excellence and team synergy. Each chapter gives you access to transformative concepts and practices that elevate your team's performance. Embark on a journey of team transformation with The Vanguard Edge. Secure your copy today and start building a team that meets and exceeds expectations! From the Author I wrote The Vanguard Edge with a heartfelt desire to help you lead your team to success. This book is a practical toolkit, not just theories, born from my experiences and insights shared by accomplished leaders I've worked with. You'll find straightforward strategies, relatable stories, and easy-to-implement ideas to strengthen your team and leadership skills. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this book offers a clear path to unleash your team's potential. I invite you to explore the Vanguard Edge principles and begin your team's transformational journey. Inside the book, you'll find the address for our companion website, which offers additional tools and resources at no extra cost. It's my way of ensuring you have all you need to succeed. Thank you for considering The Vanguard Edge. Join me in creating a future where your team's triumph is inevitable.

Tricia's Speech Direction and Impact Tricia, a former professional dancer and choreographer, now directs and produces for film, television, and theater. She founded her company, The Big Talk, to help thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals effectively communicate for impact. Tricia has worked with numerous high-profile clients, including mayoral candidates and World Economic Forum speakers. She aims to unite humanity through effective speech. Michael acknowledged the importance of Tricia's work, particularly in the context of AI and global leadership. Effective Communication and Emotional Connection Michael discussed the importance of effective communication and emotional connection in presentations, using examples from a recent session he attended. He emphasized the need to understand the motivations and perspectives of others, rather than just presenting facts, to foster transformative change. Michael also shared his journey from a small town in Missouri to New York, highlighting the leadership lessons he learned. Tricia agreed with Michael's points. Responsible Leadership and Inclusive Voices Tricia emphasized the importance of understanding one's voice and using it responsibly, internally and externally. She shared her experiences as a young dancer and later as a director, highlighting the need to create a safe space for others to explore their truths. Tricia stressed the value of differing opinions and the need to respect all voices, regardless of political views. She concluded by expressing her desire to leave a legacy of inclusivity and modeling responsible leadership. Michael agreed with Tricia's views. Embracing Personal Experiences for Growth Michael and Tricia discussed the importance of finding one's voice and embracing personal experiences, both positive and negative, to grow and overcome challenges. Michael shared his journey of burnout and recovery, emphasizing the value of self-reflection and self-improvement. Tricia highlighted the power of vulnerability and the impact of sharing one's story. They both agreed on the significance of amplifying one's voice to make a positive societal difference. Overcoming Public Speaking Fears Tricia and Michael discussed their experiences with public speaking and overcoming fears. Tricia shared her work with an endodontist who transformed her fear of speaking into a successful career and offered a free on-demand masterclass on her website to help others. Michael recounted his experience overcoming public speaking fears due to chickenpox and emphasized the importance of sharing personal stories to connect with others.    Free offer: https://livemasterclass.triciabrouk.com/command-any-room1 Website:  https://triciabrouk.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciabrouk/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/tricia_brouk Podcast:  https://triciabrouk.com/podcast/  

Positive Mindset and Entrepreneurial Journey @ 0:00 Neil and Michael discuss the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and embracing the entrepreneurial journey, even when faced with challenges. Neil shares how he pivoted from a corporate career to building his own businesses, overcoming obstacles like financial setbacks and family changes along the way. Building Sustainable E-commerce Businesses @ 1:56 Neil outlines his experience building online companies over the past 17 years, including launching successful private label brands on Amazon and acquiring other e-commerce businesses. He emphasizes the need to create real, sustainable businesses with tangible assets rather than just "side hustles" or "hobby businesses". Acquiring and Scaling E-commerce Businesses @ 2:47 Neil discusses his company's focus on acquiring e-commerce businesses with $1.5-$3.5 million in EBITDA, with the goal of scaling them further through their expertise and resources. He explains the value of building sustainable businesses with tangible assets that can be acquired and grown. Rapid Growth of E-commerce and Mobile Commerce @ 5:42 The discussion explores the explosive growth of e-commerce, especially the shift to mobile purchasing overtaking desktop in recent years. Neil highlights the speed at which the e-commerce industry is evolving and the opportunities this presents for entrepreneurs to build scalable, profitable businesses. Entrepreneurship Education for Youth @ 13:37 Neil shares that he is teaching an entrepreneurship course for 14-18 year olds in his homeschool co-op, with the goal of helping young people start their own businesses in the next 15 weeks. Michael praises this initiative as an important way to foster entrepreneurial mindsets and skills at a young age. Recap and Resources @ 24:46 In closing, Neil provides information on how to connect with him and access his resources, including a book he co-authored with Kevin Harrington on building a "lifestyle-driven business model" through physical product e-commerce. About Neil Twa Are you a podcast owner looking to book an e-commerce and entrepreneurship expert who can deliver game-changing insights for your audience? Look no further than Mr. Twa - he's got the brains, the real-world experience, and the down-to-earth demeanor, and he wrote the book on building automated income with Amazon FBA. For over 17 years, Mr. Twa has been constructing online and offline businesses after departing his senior IBM role. Since 2012, he's launched 5+ personal brands, generated 10 million in revenues as eight-figure sellers, and assisted in the growth of 1000+ others through consulting, coaching, and mentoring alongside partner Reed and their Voltage team. As the sole "Shark"-endorsed Amazon FBA growth consultancy, their "As Seen on TV" strategy anticipates market demands and creates brand marketing pull. This approach pinpoints the 5 CRUCIAL breakthroughs sellers need to transform an Amazon FBA business into a direct-to-consumer brand worth more upon sale than during its building phase. Neil Twa frequently guests on top shows, sharing his mastery of e-commerce, entrepreneurship, and brand building online - with a laser focus on leveraging Amazon FBA and omnichannel marketing strategies. Book him as your next guest to unlock insights that can propel your audience's Amazon FBA ventures in 2024 and beyond! Discover how to leverage Amazon FBA to build an automated income, achieve time freedom, and amass more incredible wealth - whether high-income earners, current business builders, generating passive income, or desiring wealth outside Wall Street! https://podmatch.com/guestdetailpreview/1617919623027x315208613535165500 Website: https://voltagedm.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiltwa/ Facebook https://web.facebook.com/neiltwa/?_rdc=1&_rdr Twitter https://twitter.com/voltagefba Instagram https://www.instagram.com/neiltwa/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fbabusinessbuilders YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/NeilTwavoltage

Brandon Blewett, author of the best-seller How to Avoid Strangers on Airplanes, just released his witty and insightful take on navigating both literal and professional journeys. While the book hilariously examines the “6 Habits of Highly Annoying Travelers,” it also draws compelling parallels to the workplace—outlining how dealing with delays, turbulence, and pivots helped shape his career. Key talking points Brandon discusses: Knowing when to admit a role, path, or environment isn’t the right fit—and finding the courage to move forward. Identifying and fostering mentoring relationships that unlock doors and inspire growth. How mentoring others can organically lead to opportunities. Discovering what truly makes you tick to chart a fulfilling career path. For context, the book has been praised as: "Drawing on his experience as both a seasoned road warrior and M&A executive, Brandon C. Blewett offers a hilariously relatable take on the habits of fellow travelers, transforming the chaos of air travel into a masterclass on navigating personal and professional growth." - Gary Leff, View from the Wing founder and Travel Guru "A rollicking tale from the ultimate frequent flyer. Travel has never been this funny. Do yourself a favor: pack this book in your carry-on." - Bill Keenan, Author of Discussion Materials "How many times have you wanted to turn to the plane seatmate next to you, behind you or across the aisle and say exactly what's on the tip of your tongue? Brandon does it, through a combination of comedy and astute observation...  I never thought a guy with a background in mergers and acquisitions could be so funny. I stand corrected." - Greg Schwem, Author of Text Me If You're Breathing, The Road to Success Goes Through the Salar Bar, and Turning Gut Punches into Punchlines Website: brandonblewett.com Book:  https://amzn.to/4hyTewR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandoncblewett/ X: https://x.com/brandonintheair Travel Experiences and Professional Development Michael and Brandon had a conversation about their experiences with travel and how it relates to their professional and personal lives. Brandon, the author of "How to Avoid Strangers on Airplanes," shared his background in frequent travel and his career in consulting and mergers and acquisitions. Michael, who has also traveled extensively, discussed his observations of people's interactions in airports and how these experiences can be compared to the challenges faced in daily life and career. They both agreed that adaptability and flexibility are essential in both travel and professional development. The conversation ended with Michael suggesting that sometimes, one needs to look within to navigate through challenges. Reassessing Career Choices for Fulfillment Michael and Brandon discussed the importance of self-reflection and reassessing one's career choices. Brandon shared his experience of pivoting from tax law to management consulting, realizing that his initial career choice wasn't the best fit for his skill set. Michael, a former accountant, echoed Brandon's sentiments, expressing relief at leaving his accounting career behind. They both agreed that reassessing one's career path is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment. Networking and Mentoring in Careers Michael and Brandon discussed the importance of networking and mentoring in their careers. Brandon shared his experience of not attending a target school for graduate studies and how he relied on mentoring relationships to succeed. He mentioned his involvement in the Ole Miss Mba Mentoring program and how it helped his mentees achieve significant career milestones. Brandon also highlighted the potential for mentoring relationships to come full circle, with mentees potentially offering opportunities in the future. Michael shared his own experience of being a mentor through a program at Walsh College, emphasizing the value of such relationships. Mentoring and Human Aspect Consideration Michael shared his experience of mentoring a student, Brandon, who was going through a challenging time due to his wife's medical school in Chicago. Michael suggested that Brandon transfer to a business school in Chicago to save on rent and be closer to his wife. Brandon eventually followed this advice and graduated. Michael emphasized the importance of considering the human aspect in mentoring, beyond just career goals. He also mentioned that he didn't receive an invitation to continue mentoring Brandon, but he could still mentor in other areas. Student Athlete Experience and Football Brandon shared his experience as a student athlete at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he attended every home football game and participated in the school's Life after Ball program. He found it rewarding to help student athletes prepare for their future careers, whether in finance or consulting. He also expressed his excitement about SMU's successful football season, which he believes will attract more talented players. Michael agreed, noting that the ease of transferring in college football now aligns with the real world, where taking a year off before starting a new job is not necessary. Leadership, Discipline, and Surrounding Smart People Brandon and Michael discussed the importance of discipline, practice, and competition in achieving success. They highlighted the example of Shaquille O'Neal, who despite being a former athlete, has become a successful businessman. They emphasized the need for leaders to surround themselves with smart and honest people who can provide feedback, even when it's not wanted. They also touched on the importance of being receptive to feedback and advice from others, such as gate agents, pilots, and flight attendants, to navigate challenges like flight delays or cancellations. The conversation concluded with the idea that leaders should strive to be the best in their field and that they deserve the best in the world. Continuous Learning and Personal Growth Brandon and Michael discussed the importance of continuous learning and growth, with Michael emphasizing the value of small daily improvements. They also talked about the potential for personal and professional growth, with Michael suggesting that even a 1% improvement each day could lead to significant progress over time.

  Leadership, Culture, and Algorithmic Design Michael and Shanda explored leadership, workplace culture, and the role of algorithms. Shanda emphasized positive culture and communication, while Michael stressed that all leaders are human and that algorithms should be people-designed. Leadership and Culture Building Journey Shanda shared their 20-year leadership journey, highlighting employee retention and experience across 20 industries. As President of Mays and Associates, they’ve impacted 22,000 individuals. Michael acknowledged generational workforce shifts, including the rise of Gen X, millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. Leadership Approaches and Work-Life Harmony They agreed leadership must be adaptable, not one-size-fits-all. Shanda emphasized trust, transparency, and clear planning. They discussed work-life harmony versus balance, noting leaders must meet employees where they are, as motivation varies. Authenticity and Playful Work Culture Michael highlighted being true to oneself at work and in life, stressing consistency over compartmentalization. He advocated for a playful workplace where colleagues connect personally, sharing his own experiences to illustrate the value of positivity in the workplace. Civility and Communication in Leadership Shanda stressed that care, communication, and civility are vital for retaining employees. Self-awareness and openness to feedback are essential. Michael shared insights from his direct and honest partnerships, comparing leadership to cooking—both require constant refinement. Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence Michael noted that anxiety and confidence struggles can manifest as poor leadership behavior. Openness to change and self-awareness can help leaders improve. Shanda agreed, emphasizing emotional intelligence and the cultural influence on addressing organizational issues. AI's Impact on Workplace Civility Shanda highlighted how AI affects workplace tone and civility. AI is only as effective as its input, so leaders must use it mindfully. Michael added that AI should be a tool, not a replacement, and should focus on artificial common sense. Overcoming Past Baggage They discussed how past experiences influence behavior at work. Michael stressed empathy and learning from mistakes, while Shanda encouraged living in the present. They agreed that external consultants can provide objectivity and problem-solving support. Financial Stress and Workplace Collaboration Shanda shared her book and podcast, and Michael promoted his show. They discussed financial stress and its effect on retention and performance. Shanda referenced her work with the Better Business Bureau and local chambers, and they agreed on the need for better support for small businesses and entrepreneurs.