Small Steps Big Wins©

The Distinctive Role of the COO with Sarah Guidus, CEO of Second in Command Academy In this engaging conversation, Sarah Guidus, founder and CEO of Second in Command Academy, shares her journey from marketing director to the CEO of a million-dollar agency. Sarah discusses the crucial role of the COO (Chief Operating Officer), often known as the 'second in command,' emphasizing its importance in scaling and managing businesses. Listeners will gain insight into the various responsibilities of a COO, including project management, team leadership, and maintaining steady operations. The discussion also covers traits that embody an effective COO, from organizational skills to the ability to foresee ripple effects of decisions. Sarah provides practical advice for entrepreneurs on recognizing when it's time to hire and the essential qualities to look for in a second in command. She candidly shares her experiences and solutions to overcoming imposter syndrome and the significance of setting both tangible and emotional goals. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the dynamics between CEO and COO and the vital role of integrators in business growth. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:15 Sarah's Professional Journey 01:43 Understanding the COO Role 06:46 Key Traits of a Successful COO 12:33 The Yin and Yang of CEO and COO 16:43 Challenges and Solutions for COOs 23:11 Building the Second in Command Academy 28:25 Planning and Scheduling Trainings 29:03 Reflecting on Career Beginnings 29:48 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs 30:21 Creating Opportunities and Taking Action 34:33 Therapy and Coaching for Personal Growth 35:42 Goal Setting and Achieving Success 44:26 Imposter Syndrome and Professional Growth 47:21 Transitioning from COO to CEO 50:04 Advice to Younger Self and Final Thoughts 52:00 Podcast Questions and Closing Remarks Sarah Guidas is the Founder and CEO of 2nd-In-Command Academy, a full resource for small businesses looking to either hire or invest in their Integrator. This is done through recruitment, an accessible Academy, and 1:1 containers. With 8+ years as a 2nd-In-Command at three $1M+ startups, Sarah has quadrupled another startup in its trailing 12 from year 2 to year 3 (6 months experienced 200% growth year over year, and the other 6 had an average growth of 182%), built a remote + international team from 2 to 50+ full-time employees - in less than 2 years, restructured a US department overseas resulting in a 76% decrease in salary cost, expertly prepared a 3.5-year company for acquisition + managed due diligence, and more. She then elevated from the COO to CEO role where she lead 50+ team members and gained a deep understanding of a Visionary's needs from their Integrator. This gave Sarah immense experience (and perspective) as to how important that #2 role is and what's required to not only be, but build, a high-performing 2nd-In-Command. How to reach out to Sarah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahlguidas/Instagram: sarahguidas_2ndincommand Spotify:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast Do you need to find a personal coach? ⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com To learn more about Sue, visit  ⁠⁠https://suesaller.com And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice!  Have an awesome day, friends!

In this insightful conversation, Jeff shares practical strategies and real-world experiences from his unique journey transitioning from an accounting major and CPA to a lawyer, and eventually a successful CEO in the manufacturing industry. Jeff and Sue discuss the importance of curiosity, communication, and empathy in navigating different roles, leadership environments, and industry challenges. They dive into the intricate relationship between law and business, emphasizing the significance of culture and mentorship in achieving organizational success. With actionable advice on networking, problem-solving, and creating a dynamic workplace culture, Jeff’s wisdom caters not only to aspiring lawyers but also to business professionals seeking growth and fulfillment. He offers practical advice and actionable steps for enhancing organizational culture, networking, and mentorship across various fields. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how small steps can lead to significant achievements and build a successful, people-centric organization.00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts00:42 Jeff's Unique Career Path02:15 Transitioning from Law to Business03:33 Communication Challenges in Business04:39 Understanding Employee Perspectives09:18 The Importance of Company Culture21:24 Mentorship and Its Impact36:23 Top Three Qualities of an Outstanding CEO40:40 Empathy vs. Sympathy: Understanding the Difference41:50 The Role of a Chief Happiness Officer42:52 Happy News: Building Company Culture44:39 From Associate to Ambassador: Writing the Book46:28 Timeless Skills for Law Firm Associates53:15 Networking and Relationship Building57:39 Challenges and Insights in Business and Law59:40 Recommended Books and Final ThoughtsAt the beginning of his career, Jeff Baldassari practiced law at the national firm BakerHostetler. Jeff has served as a President & CEO for 21 years at two manufacturing companies. He has been a client of legal services across a multitude of practice areas. His unique career path has given him the opportunity to see and experience the practice of law as both a provider and a recipient.You can reach out to Jeff at any of the following::www.fromassociatetoambassador.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbaldassari/https://www.instagram.com/fromassociatetoambassador/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555148354528If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.suesaller.com/⁠⁠⁠. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? ⁠⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/⁠⁠⁠ And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Innovating from the Inside Out: Unlocking Your Authentic Leadership with Adele DiMarcoIn this engaging podcast episode, Sue sits down with Adele DiMarco, founder of Yinovate, to discuss innovative leadership. Adele delves into her 20-year journey of guiding organizations and leaders to operate from their heart and soul, ultimately revealing their highest truths and purpose. The conversation explores the importance of tapping into one's authentic self, the transformative power of self-reflection, and the critical role of alignment in organizations. Adele introduces the 'flow model' and emphasizes the significance of gratitude, vision setting, and holistic approaches in fostering personal and organizational growth. This episode is a profound exploration of becoming your best self and leading with intent and authenticity.00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Podcast00:27 Adele DeMarco's Background and Yin Ovate01:14 The Heart and Soul of Organizations02:14 Challenges in Discovering Authentic Leadership04:02 Framework for Organizational Alignment06:13 Holistic Approach to Team Dynamics12:14 Defining and Achieving Alignment15:56 The Journey to Authentic Self17:09 Barriers to Authenticity and Overcoming Them23:07 The Power of Vision and Gratitude30:31 The Power of Gratitude and Pride32:09 Understanding Ego and Self-Worth34:39 Celebrating Wins Without Losing Drive36:46 The Impact of Words on Reality39:18 Harnessing Fear and Excitement41:57 Rewiring for Higher Vibrations45:36 Navigating Life's Unexpected Turns51:14 The Messy Middle and Faith in the Process55:23 Reflections on Divorce and Childhood ImpactReach out to Adele at:adele@yinovate.comhttps://www.yinovate.com/ If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.suesaller.com/⁠⁠⁠. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? ⁠⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/⁠⁠⁠ And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Redefining Life: Jeanne Collins' Transformative Journey from Corporate to Design with Inner Peace In this episode, Jeanne Collins shares her journey of leaving a successful corporate career to pursue her passion in interior design. Fired from her high-ranking advertising sales role in 2020, Jeannie faced the challenges of reinvention at 50, creating a business that integrates interior design with personal well-being. She discusses how she helps clients cultivate their internal peace through their external surroundings and shares the story behind her book, 'Two Feet In.' Jeanne also dives into the importance of inner peace over happiness, her experiences with personal development and mindset, and her unique approach to design that balances aesthetics with improving quality of life. This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and the emotional highs and lows of a transformative life journey. 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 01:10 Jeannie's Corporate Journey 02:30 Pursuing a Passion for Interior Design 03:16 Starting a New Business 03:59 Facing Doubts and Finding Support 06:50 Writing the Book 10:02 Therapeutic Writing and Personal Growth 14:40 The Two Feet In Philosophy 18:31 Wellness-Led Interior Design 28:30 Choosing Fabrics for Interior Wellness 29:50 Designing for Movement in a Room 31:10 Transforming a Client's Space: A Success Story 35:30 The Impact of Colors on Interior Spaces 36:47 Finding Purpose and Inner Peace 39:30 Navigating Career Shifts and Friendships 43:29 Manifesting Desires and Signs from the Universe 55:14 Creating a 'Do Not Disturb' Space for Wellness 57:22 Conclusion and Contact Information Facebook Book: https://www.facebook.com/jeanne.collins.ct Facebook Business: https://www.facebook.com/jermardesigns Instagram Book: https://www.instagram.com/jeanne_collins_ct/ Instagram Business: https://www.instagram.com/houseofjermar Spotify:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast Do you need to find a personal coach? ⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com To learn more about Sue, visit  ⁠⁠https://suesaller.com And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice!  Have an awesome day, friends!

In this episode of Wednesday Wisdom, Sue emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating our unique amazingness. She shares personal anecdotes about feeling unremarkable despite numerous accomplishments such as being a mom, teacher, and podcaster. She encourages listeners to acknowledge the small acts of kindness and service they perform daily, as these contribute to their amazingness. The episode advocates for taking moments to celebrate personal achievements, no matter how minor they may seem, and reminds everyone that they are unique and irreplaceable. Listeners are also encouraged to share this positive message with friends to help spread the notion of self-appreciation and collective support. If you have enjoyed my podcast, visit my website at⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.suesaller.com/⁠⁠⁠. Do you need to find a personal coach or mentor? ⁠⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com/⁠⁠⁠ If you want to see the full, please visit: Spotify:⁠ ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast⁠! And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice! Have an awesome day, friends!

Empowering Leadership: From Classroom to Entrepreneurship with Cheri Dixon Join Sue as she sits down with Cheri Dixon, a former school principal turned leadership coach, author, and TV host, to discuss her inspiring journey. Cheri shares her background in education, her challenges and triumphs in turning around failing schools, and the impact of Hurricane Harvey and the pandemic. Discover how she navigated a career shift from education to entrepreneurship, her strategies for staying focused despite ADHD, and her passion for empowering women leaders. Cheri also delves into her work on autism awareness, her books, podcast, and exciting TV and documentary projects, providing a wealth of insights for personal and professional growth. This episode is a deep dive into leadership, resilience, and the power of saying yes to life’s opportunities. 00:32 Journey into Education and Leadership 02:25 Challenges and Growth in Leadership 04:55 Transition to Entrepreneurship 08:33 Daily Routines and Focus Strategies 11:17 Decision to Leave Education 15:39 New Ventures: Writing and Media 19:27 Documentary on Autism 29:39 Diagnosing Autism in Schools 30:25 Surprising Insights from the Documentary 33:09 Support Services for Adults with Autism 35:31 Challenges and Costs of Autism Care 38:32 Advice for Working with People with Autism 44:49 Upcoming Books and Personal Reflections 51:47 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Cheri Dixon is the owner of Cheri Dixon Consulting LLC, which she started after leaving a 28-year career in public education. Cheri loved the work she did with turnaround schools and continues to take that work into the business world, helping businesses scale their organizations to the next level. In addition, Cheri believes that the leader is crucial to any organization and supports leaders to develop their skills to strive for excellence in this global society. Cheri's contact information: https://www.facebook.com/cheri.dixon.35/ https://www.instagram.com/cheridixonconsulting/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheri-dixon-38938b244/ https://www.cheridixonconsulting.com Spotify:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast Do you need to find a personal coach? ⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com To learn more about Sue, visit  ⁠⁠https://suesaller.com And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice!  Have an awesome day, friends!

In this episode, I dive deep into the transformative power of podcasting with Marc Picard. We explore the idea of valuing every single listener, no matter the size of your audience, and redefine what success means in the podcasting world. Marc and I reflect on how even just 25 or 50 downloads represent real people who can amplify your message. We discuss how podcasting success should be measured by the connections made, the impact on social media, and personal growth from guest interactions, rather than just numerical goals. Discover how podcasting can be a catalyst for both personal and professional development. From meeting life coaches and influential authors like Brian Johnson to creative fulfillment and self-improvement, this episode is filled with inspiring stories and practical advice. I also share fun anecdotes, like learning Catalan in Barcelona, to emphasize the importance of embracing unique traits and living in the moment. Plus, I provide actionable tips to start your own journey of positive change today. If you're looking for further guidance, don't miss our recommendation to visit personalcoachfinder.com to find the right coach for you. Chapter Summaries: (0:00:03) - Embracing Small Steps, Big Wins (11 Minutes) Marc and I discuss the importance of valuing every listener, no matter how small the numbers might seem. We reflect on how 50 or even 25 downloads represent real people, each with the potential to share the podcast further. The chapter emphasizes the broader impact on social media and personal growth from guest interactions, stressing that success should be measured by connections and knowledge gained rather than rigid numerical goals. (0:10:43) - The Power of Podcasting and Flexibility (13 Minutes) We delve into the profound impact a podcast can have on personal and professional growth. I share how podcasting opened doors to unexpected opportunities, like meeting a life coach, connecting with a publisher, and networking with authors such as Brian Johnson. We also discuss the creative fulfillment and self-improvement that come from podcasting. The chapter highlights the importance of embracing unique traits and living in the moment, illustrated by my experience learning Catalan in Barcelona. (0:23:21) - Taking Practical Steps for Lasting Change (1 Minute) I emphasize the importance of taking actionable steps after listening to the podcast. Reflect on practical steps you can implement today to initiate positive changes in your life. Even small actions can lead to significant wins over time. If you're unsure where to begin, visit personalcoachfinder.com to find a coach who can assist you. Remember, life improves through intentional choices, not by chance. Key Takeaways: 1. Value Every Listener: Even small download numbers represent real people who can amplify your message. 2. Redefine Success: Focus on connections made and knowledge gained rather than rigid numerical goals. 3. Personal Growth: Podcasting can be a catalyst for personal and professional development. 4. Unique Traits: Embrace your unique traits and live in the moment. 5. Practical Steps: Take small, actionable steps today to start your journey of positive change. --- Remember to take small steps today to make your life awesome, and if you need more guidance, check out personalcoachfinder.com to find the right coach for you. Thanks for listening!

Balancing Ambition and Life: I SEE YOU with Amy Kemp In this insightful conversation, the host welcomes entrepreneur, CEO, mom, wife, and coach Amy Kemp. Amy shares her journey from being a high school English teacher to building a successful business over 20 years. She openly discusses the pivotal moment with her financial advisor that spurred her to rethink her strategies and prioritize her goals. Amy emphasizes the coexistence of her roles as a loving mom and an ambitious businesswoman, and the constant tension between them. She talks about the importance of mastering thought habits, overcoming self-limiting beliefs, and valuing one's natural genius. Amy also covers the significance of self-investment, the challenges women face with unpaid labor, and maintaining positive energy to attract success. This episode is filled with practical wisdom for anyone looking to balance multiple roles in life and work. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:20 Mastering Skills and Pickleball Passion 01:03 Turning Point: Financial Epiphany 01:39 Balancing Life and Business 03:35 Facing Financial Realities 06:17 Making Space for New Opportunities 06:58 Navigating Criticism and Personal Growth 11:44 Embracing the Journey and Inner Voice 18:46 The Power of Present Moment 23:26 The Inspiration Behind 'I See You' 29:21 Recognizing and Monetizing Your Natural Genius 30:30 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Low Self-Esteem 31:14 Self-Sabotage and Women's Worth 32:31 The Relationship Between Money and Self-Worth 34:02 Daily Practices for a Healthy Money Mindset 39:14 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Employment 50:09 Final Thoughts and Resources 51:26 The Role of Unpaid Labor in Women's Lives Amy Kemp is the owner & CEO of Amy Kemp, Inc. In her work within this growing company, Amy helps leaders and business professionals understand how deeply thought habits impact every part of their work and lives. As a certified Habit Finder coach, Amy has led over 400 female business leaders through a four-month small group engagement called Encounter that is designed to replace unhealthy thought habits with more healthy ones. She has also worked through the Habit Finder curriculum with hundreds of leaders in one-on-one settings and with leadership teams at small and large companies. In addition, Amy teaches two engaging online courses each year in the fall and spring that are designed to challenge and expand her clients' understanding of themselves and to offer an easy entry point to her work for those who are curious and seeking. Some of the most popular topics in her library of offerings are "Money Is a Mirror" and "A Boundary Is Not a Wall." Finally, with the launch of I See You: A Guide for Women to Make More, Have More, and Be More—Without More Work on February 29, 2024, Amy offers an opportunity for everyone to learn and engage with her and the principles that guide her coaching in the pages of her first book. While her business and professional accomplishments are many, Amy counts all of it a loss if she doesn’t invest her best time and energy in leading and loving those closest to her in #kempnation. She has been married to Ryan for over twenty years and they have three children - Avery, Anthony, and Andrew. You can find Amy at: Facebook - @amykempinc Instagram - @amykempinc LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/amylynnkemp Spotify:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast Do you need to find a personal coach? ⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com To learn more about Sue, visit  ⁠⁠https://suesaller.com And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice!  Have an awesome day, friends!

In this enlightening episode of the Small Steps, Big Wins podcast, I welcome back Marc Picard to delve into the intricate world of sensory overload and mental clutter. Marc, a hypersensitive person, bravely shares his personal experiences, describing how life's noise often feels overwhelmingly loud. Together, Marc and I explore practical strategies to manage this sensory overload, including a powerful visualization exercise that helps compartmentalize life's challenges into different "rooms in the mind." Tune in for actionable advice and supportive insights that will help you take small steps toward big wins in managing life's noise. Key Topics Discussed: - Marc's Experience with Sensory Overload: Marc opens up about his hypersensitivity and the constant feeling of life's noise being sometimes "too loud". - Visualization Exercise: I introduce a powerful visualization technique where life's challenges are compartmentalized into different mind rooms, helping to focus on one issue at a time. - Handling Unexpected Life Situations: We discuss strategies for dealing with sudden, intense challenges and how these contribute to mental clutter. - Learning Styles: The importance of understanding whether you are a visual or auditory learner to better manage mental clutter. - Practical Self-Care Tips: The significance of self-care activities like running and gardening in maintaining mental clarity and reducing overwhelm. Practical Takeaways: - Compartmentalize Your Challenges: Use visualization to create mental "rooms" for each of your life's challenges, dealing with them one at a time. - Focus on One Task at a Time: Avoid multitasking to reduce mental clutter and increase effectiveness. - Incorporate Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities that help reset your mind, such as running, meditation, or gardening. Join the Conversation: What practical steps are you going to put into action today as a result of listening to this podcast? Share your thoughts and experiences with us! Connect with Us: - Website: www.personalcoachfinder.com Remember: Life doesn't get better by chance; it gets better by choice. Take small steps today and make your life awesome! Thank you for tuning in to another episode of the Small Steps, Big Wins podcast. I value your time with us and seek to make every moment count.

Harnessing Heart Rate Variability for Holistic Health with Dr. Torkel Farrow In this episode of the Small Steps Big Wins podcast, Sue explores the diverse and impressive background of Dr. Torkil Faero, a general practitioner, emergency room physician, documentary filmmaker, author, and photographer based in Norway. In 1996 he was one of the first Norwegian medics to work for Doctors Without Borders when he worked in war-torn Angola. Over a 25-year career as a freelance doctor, he has worked all over Norway, had tens of thousands of consultations and gained a unique picture of the diseases that plague us. He has learned that the cause is most often found in the stresses our lifestyles place on our bodies. Dr. Faero discusses his transformative health journey sparked by his father’s death, leading him to fundamentally change his lifestyle and focus on health. He introduces his book, 'The Pulse Cure,' which emphasizes the significance of heart rate variability (HRV) in monitoring stress and maintaining health. Dr. Faero delves into how leveraging technology like HRV tracking devices can reveal hidden stressors and improve overall well-being. The conversation also touches upon the benefits of cold exposure, intermittent fasting, and the effects of nutrition and sleep on health. He advocates for minimal but consistent lifestyle changes to foster health and well-being. Through his personal and professional insights, the podcast illuminates the potential of HRV and modern technology in enhancing preventive medicine and empowering individuals to take control of their health. 00:00 Welcome to the Journey: Introduction to the Podcast 02:28 The Pulse Cure: A Personal Health Transformation 05:27 Harnessing Technology for Health: The Power of Heart Rate Variability 12:19 Stress, Health, and Modern Medicine: A New Understanding 15:12 Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: Navigating Life's Challenges 21:08 Cold Plunges and Brown Fat: Unveiling the Benefits 28:25 Nutrition's Role in Health: Insights and Surprises 39:17 Practical Health Tips: Small Steps, Big Wins 40:01 Unlocking the Secrets to Restorative Sleep 40:19 The Hidden Dangers of Sleep Deprivation 41:17 Practical Sleep Hacks for Better Rest 41:57 The Expedition of Life Change: Embracing the Challenge 42:41 The Paradox of Doctor's Health and Stress 45:16 Inflammation: The Silent Threat to Your Health 49:13 Harnessing Technology for Health: A Guide to Wearables 52:16 Lessons from a Life of Travel and Cultural Insights 58:59 The Transformative Power of Small Steps 01:00:16 The Journey of Writing: Insights and Surprises 01:05:38 Photography as a Path to Mindfulness and Health 01:11:59 Final Thoughts Follow Dr. Torkil on social: Webpage: thepulsecure.com Instagram: dr_torkil.md Spotify:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smallstepsbigwinspodcast Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallStepsBIGWinsPodcast Do you need to find a personal coach? ⁠⁠https://www.personalcoachfinder.com To learn more about Sue, visit  ⁠⁠https://suesaller.com And remember, life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by choice!  Have an awesome day, friends!