

The Chris LoCurto Show
Chris LoCurto
Break down the barriers to small business success with 'The Chris LoCurto Show'. Tailored for the tireless entrepreneur facing the daily grind of managing cash flow, leading a team, and carving out a competitive edge, this podcast offers more than just advice—it offers a lifeline. Chris LoCurto brings decades of firsthand experience leading small businesses and delivers straightforward strategies and actionable insights.Every episode tackles the real issues you face—how to inspire your team, make every dollar count, and find the time to focus on what really matters: growing your business and achieving a fulfilling work-life balance. This isn't just a podcast; it's a community where your challenges are acknowledged, your efforts are celebrated, and your dreams are attainable.Join us in listening to 'The Chris LoCurto Show' to transform your business headaches into victories. Subscribe today and start paving your path to business growth and personal fulfillment. Learn more at www.chrislocurto.com. Your journey to small business mastery begins here.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 30, 2024 • 37min
585 | How to Lead Someone With a Victim Mentality
Today, we’re diving into a challenging yet crucial topic: leading someone with a victim mentality. Let's jump right in!Victim mentality is that mindset where someone feels something is always happening to them, and they can’t do anything about it. Have you seen it? Someone on your team who constantly blames others for their circumstances, never taking responsibility for their actions. This kind of mentality can be absolutely toxic to team dynamics, productivity, and overall morale.Key Points from This EpisodeIdentifying Victim Mentality:Recognize the mindset where someone feels things are always happening to them, and they can’t do anything about it.These individuals never take responsibility and constantly blame others.Types of Victim Mentality:Self-Pitying Victim: Always has a “woe is me” attitude.Defensive Victim: Shifts blame and becomes defensive, pointing out others' faults to deflect from their own issues.Impact on Team Dynamics:Disrupts team cohesion and productivity.Affects loyalty and respect within the team.Complicates accountability, as no one wants to work with someone who never takes responsibility.Strategies to Lead Through These Tough Conversations:Lean into Their Personality Style: Approach them in a way that suits their personality to ease the conversation.Avoid Assumptions and Accusations: Ask perspective-gaining questions instead of accusing.Tailor Your Approach: Focus on empowerment for self-pitying victims and accountability for defensive victims.Continuous Feedback and Support: Regularly check in, provide resources for personal development, and encourage a culture of responsibility and growth.Promote a Culture of Responsibility and Growth:Set clear expectations and achievable goals.Celebrate successes and proactive problem-solving.Foster a team culture where taking responsibility is valued.Episodes to Check OutFor more insights, be sure to listen to:Episode 495: Lies Victims Tell ThemselvesEpisode 276: What Makes Us Powerless and How to Stop Victim MentalityDon't miss out! This episode is packed with practical advice and strategies to transform your team dynamics and leadership approach. Make sure to tune in and take your leadership skills to the next level.Remember, effective leadership begins with understanding and action. Catch this episode and let's make some positive changes together!Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com - we check that email daily.

Jul 23, 2024 • 37min
584 | How to Overcome Self-Sabotage in Your Business Journey
Whether you're a leader, business owner, or team member, these behaviors can be a major roadblock to your success. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I know how tough it can be to overcome. But with the right strategies and mindset, you can beat it!Key Points from This Episode:Understanding Self-Sabotage: We break down what self-sabotage really means and how deep-rooted fears and limiting beliefs from your "Root System" can hold you back.Common Self-Sabotaging Behaviors:Procrastination: Even the most driven business owners can fall into this trap, delaying crucial decisions and actions due to fear.Perfectionism: Setting unattainably high standards can prevent progress and delay important tasks.Overcommitment: Taking on too many responsibilities can lead to task saturation, where nothing gets the attention it deserves.The Role of Identity and Ego: We discuss how tying your identity to business success or titles can lead to self-sabotage. Your true worth comes from what God says you are, not from others' opinions.Overcoming Self-Sabotage:Becoming Self-Aware: Identify and acknowledge your self-sabotaging patterns. Keeping a journal can help track negative thoughts and behaviors.Setting Realistic Goals: Break down your goals into manageable steps using the “good, better, best” framework.Seeking Support and Accountability: Engage with mentors, coaches, and peer groups for regular feedback and accountability. Joining a Mastermind group can be incredibly beneficial.Related Episodes You Shouldn't Miss:Episode 238: The 6 Subtle Self-Destructive Behaviors We Miss EverydayEpisode 453: Self-Sabotaging Your AuthenticityAlso, check out the quick read, 7 Signs You Self-Sabotage, for more tips and strategies.Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com – we check that email daily.

Jul 16, 2024 • 52min
583 | Why Good Communicators Are Great Listeners
Today, we’re diving into a skill that every great leader needs to master: the art of listening.This episode is called “Why Good Leaders Are Great Listeners,” and it’s packed with insights and strategies to help you become a more effective leader.Sneak Peek: The Art of ListeningSo, let’s get real for a moment. We all have ears, right? But having ears and being a great listener are two very different things.In this episode, I challenge the idea that simply hearing is enough.We’re going to explore how active and empathetic listening can transform you as a leader, improve your decision-making, build stronger relationships, and create a thriving team environment.Key Insights and TechniquesUnderstanding Perspectives: One of the biggest things I talk about is the need to gain quality perspective. That means asking questions and really listening to what others have to say. The best decisions come from considering a diverse range of viewpoints.Empathetic Listening: It’s not just about hearing words. Empathetic listening involves understanding the emotions and experiences behind those words. I’ll share practical techniques for picking up on body language and non-verbal cues.Creating Trust and Rapport: Trust is essential in leadership. I’ll discuss how showing genuine care for your team members’ needs and experiences builds trust and fosters an open environment.Eliminating Distractions: To truly listen, you need to be present. That means getting rid of distractions like phones and smartwatches during conversations. When you do this, your team members will feel valued and heard.Encouraging Feedback and Growth: Active listening creates a culture of feedback and growth. I’ll highlight the importance of regular one-on-one sessions and open dialogue, helping your team members feel heard and valued.This episode is loaded with actionable advice and insights that will boost your leadership skills. By mastering the foundational skill of active listening, you can unlock new levels of understanding, build stronger connections, and propel your team to greater success.Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, these strategies will help you lead with empathy and effectiveness. Don’t miss out on these powerful lessons—tune in now to learn how great listening can transform your leadership and business.Change your leadership, change your business, and change your life with the insights from this enlightening episode.Until next time, keep growing, keep leading, and make every conversation count.Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com – we check that email daily.Additional ResourcesEpisode 153 | The Ultimate Guide To Improving Your CommunicationBlog post: 5 Ways To Be A Better Listener

Jul 9, 2024 • 58min
582 | Debt-Free Living: Peter's Journey
On today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to my heart – the journey to financial freedom.Our special guest, Peter Sawatzky, has recently achieved what many dream of: he is 100% debt-free.That’s right, Peter has managed to free himself from the financial chains that held him back, and today, he’s here to share his journey with us.Sneak PeeksEarly Challenges: Peter opens up about his upbringing and how it shaped his financial habits. From growing up in a broken family to making poor financial decisions, Peter’s story is relatable and eye-opening.The Turning Point: Discover the moment that changed everything for Peter. We’ll explore how he went from struggling with debt to taking control of his finances, all while managing a business and planning for the future.The Mental and Emotional Benefits: He shares the profound mental and emotional relief that comes with being debt-free. No more sleepless nights worrying about payments, no more stress about financial insecurity – just pure freedom.Key Decisions and Lessons Learned: Learn about the pivotal decisions Peter made to tackle his debt and the lessons he learned along the way. From cutting unnecessary expenses to seeking support from a Mastermind group, his insights are invaluable.Looking Forward: Now that Peter is debt-free, what’s next? We’ll discuss his plans for the future and how he intends to maintain his financial freedom while continuing to grow his business and live a fulfilling life.If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed by debt, Peter’s journey is a beacon of hope. Tune in to this episode to gain insights, motivation, and practical advice on how you too can achieve financial freedom. Don’t miss out on this inspiring story – it might just change your life.As always, take this information, change your leadership, change your business, change your life, and join us on the next episode of The Chris LoCurto Show.We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did! If you found it helpful, please leave a comment or review , or send us an email at podcast@chrislocurto.com– it helps us reach more people who can benefit from these stories and insights.Until next time, folks!

Jul 2, 2024 • 59min
581 | Daily Progress: Unleashing Your Potential One Day at a Time
Today’s episode, “Daily Progress: Unleashing Your Potential One Day at a Time,” is all about harnessing the power of daily habits to shape both your personal and professional life.Sneak PeekEver felt like your efforts to change your life or business just aren’t paying off? This episode is a game-changer. We emphasize that the seemingly small and unsexy daily habits are what build successful leaders and business owners.Drawing from my own experience, I break down why these habits are crucial and how they have been integral to the success of many I have coached.Key insights include:The Power of Keystone Habits: Learn to identify and implement habits that drive positive change, like morning routines that sync your body’s natural rhythms or exercise habits that boost both physical and mental health.Daily Routines for Success: I share my personal morning rituals, including grounding, exposure to sunlight, and high-intensity interval training, and I explain how these habits can transform your productivity and health.Personal and Professional Balance: Discover how daily habits can improve not just your business efficiency but also your personal satisfaction and fulfillment.We also dive into professional habits that can make a significant difference, such as the importance of closing out your day with a brain dump and prioritizing tasks for tomorrow. This practice helps clear your mind, improve your family time, and boost your productivity.Don’t miss out on these transformative insights. Tune in and start implementing these daily habits to unleash your full potential. Join us as we continue to explore essential productivity principles that will change your leadership, change your business, and change your life.Subscribe now and never miss an episode! Visit www.chrislocurto.com to listen and explore more resources.Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com – we check that email daily.Additional Resources:419 | Restoring Willpower For Better Health

Jun 25, 2024 • 46min
580 | Mastering Your 9-5 schedule
Today’s episode is a real game-changer. We’re exploring how to master your 9-5 schedule by shifting our mindset and embracing practical strategies to boost productivity.Sneak Peek:In this episode, we tackle time management from a fresh perspective. It’s not just about logistics—though we’ll cover that too.We’re diving into the psychological aspects that shape our daily routines.From overcoming perfectionism and procrastination to handling fear of failure, we’re uncovering how these mental barriers impact our productivity.Key Highlights:Mindset Over Logistics: Understand how your beliefs and attitudes influence your approach to time management.Breaking Barriers: Learn about common mindset barriers like perfectionism, procrastination, and fear of failure, and how to overcome them.Emotional Intelligence: Discover the importance of emotional intelligence in managing your schedule effectively.Practical Strategies: Get actionable tips on task management, setting clear work boundaries, and using technology to stay on track.Ready to take control of your schedule and maximize your productivity? Don’t miss out on this episode! Tune in now to discover how you can transform your 9-5 routine with the right mindset and strategies.As always, take this information, change your leadership, change your business, change your life. Join us next time as we continue to explore essential productivity principles. Let’s do this!Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com – we check that email daily.Resources:Episode 472 | How To Spend More Time Preparing Than ExecutingEpisode 559 | How To Get More Priorities Done

Jun 18, 2024 • 56min
579 | Leading by Example: Inspiring Change and Growth
Today, we’re talking about “leading from the front”. Many leaders know the idea sounds great, but what does it actually mean?In this episode, we break down the concept and focus on how your actions can inspire your team to grow and change positively.Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll hear:Real-life examples of how leading by example can transform your team culture.The importance of positive actions and their ripple effects.Tips on how to ensure your leadership becomes the DNA of your organization.Tune in to learn how to be the kind of leader who not only talks the talk but walks the walk. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or new to leadership, this episode is packed with insights that will help you elevate your leadership game. Don’t miss out!Email your leadership struggle or questions to podcast@chrislocurto.com – we check that email daily.Additional Resources:Episode 460 | Learning To Lead Yourself Before Others

Jun 11, 2024 • 43min
578 | The Mentorship Advantage: Why Every Small Business Leader Should Have a Mentor
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the undeniable benefits of having a mentor. Whether it’s a new concept to you or something you’ve considered before, you’ll hear firsthand why mentorship can be the catalyst you need to take your business to the next level. 🚀Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn:My Personal Mentorship Journey: You’ll hear me share my own experiences, from racing formula cars to running a business, and how mentors have played a pivotal role in my success.Real-Life Benefits: Discover how mentors can help you overcome fears, sharpen your thinking, and make wiser decisions.Finding the Right Mentor: Get tips on how to choose a mentor who truly understands your unique challenges and can guide you to success.This episode is packed with insights and practical advice that you won’t want to miss. So grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and let’s explore how mentorship can transform your business and your life.Additional ResourcesEpisode 166: The Accidental LeaderEpisode 330: How to Lead an Uncoachable Team MemberWhy You Need A Mentor (Blog post)

Jun 4, 2024 • 45min
577 | Leading Ahead of the Curve: The Power of Proactivity
Ready to transform your leadership approach from reactive firefighting to proactive success?Join us for an insightful episode of the Chris LoCurto Show where we dive deep into the importance of being proactive as a leader.Sneak Peeks:The Cost of Reactivity: Discover why constantly putting out fires leads to stress, inefficiency, and missed opportunities.Strategic Planning: Learn how proactive strategy can help you capture new opportunities and drive innovation.Building Resilience: Find out how fostering a proactive culture can create a resilient team ready to tackle challenges head-on.Tune in to hear as we break down practical steps to shift your mindset and lead your team with foresight and confidence. This episode is packed with actionable insights that will not only ease your leadership burden but also unlock new avenues for growth and opportunity.Don’t miss out!Got any questions, tips, or suggestions? Email podcast@chrislocurto.com - we check that email daily!

May 28, 2024 • 29min
576 | The Value of Being a Consistent Leader
Ready to dive into a game-changing leadership concept?Today, we’re talking about the magic of consistency and how it can transform your team’s performance, culture, and overall success.If you’ve ever felt like your leadership style is a bit all over the place, or you’re just not getting the results you want, this episode is for you.Unpredictable Leadership: Does your team see you as a wild card? One day you’re laid-back, and the next, you’re a bundle of stress. This unpredictability can make your team anxious and unsure of what’s coming next.Communication Breakdowns: Ever feel like you’re speaking a different language? Your messages aren’t getting through, causing confusion and mistakes.Decision-Making Woes: Do you flip-flop on decisions, leaving your team wondering what’s actually going to happen? This inconsistency can undermine their trust in your leadership.Low Engagement and Trust: Your team seems disengaged and hesitant to take initiative. This could be because they’re not sure if their efforts will be recognized or valued.In this episode, we’re diving deep into the power of consistency in leadership. We’ll show you how maintaining a steady attitude, clear communication, and firm decision-making can create a trustworthy and predictable environment.Just imagine being the drummer in a band—your consistent beat sets the rhythm for everyone else to follow.Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll cover:The Comfort Zone of Predictability: Learn why being as steady as a rock can free up your team to innovate and take risks without fear.Key Areas Where Consistency Matters: We’ll highlight the crucial areas where you need to be consistent—attitude, communication, tough conversations, and performance reviews.Negative Effects of Inconsistency: Understand how inconsistency can create uncertainty, fear, and reduced productivity among your team.Real-Life Examples: We’ll share stories of inconsistent leadership and its impact on team cohesion and trust.Steps to Build a Consistent Leadership Style: Get practical tips and habits to develop and maintain consistency in your leadership approach.Self-Awareness and Feedback: Learn how being self-aware and open to feedback can help you stay on track.Consistency isn't just about doing the same thing over and over. It's about being a beacon of reliability, setting clear expectations, and providing a sense of security to your team.When you commit to consistency in your leadership, you're not just managing; you're empowering, inspiring, and guiding your team towards greatness.So, if you’re ready to rock your leadership role and create a team that trusts and thrives under your guidance, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧✨Don’t miss out—tune in now and let’s get consistent!Got any questions, tips, or suggestions? Send us an email at podcast@chrislocurto.com - we check that email daily!


