Podcast
Leaders Of Transformation
Hosted by Nicole Jansen, Leadership Coach | Business Mentor | Change Maker · EN
The Leaders of Transformation is a podcast, a community, and a movement. Want to build a purpose-based business? Transform people's lives? Make a greater positive impact in the world? Every week our host Nicole Jansen interviews transformative business leaders and difference makers who are changing the world one conversation at a time. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of leadership, transformation, overcoming obstacles, and global impact. From transforming the way we do business and relate with others, to freeing women and children from human trafficking, and protecting our planet, these leaders of transformation will inspire and equip you to be the difference maker and world changer you are capable of being. Subscribe/follow us to hear all the latest episodes and get your weekly boost!
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
552: Reality Benders: How to Reignite Your Imagination and Unlock Infinite Possibilities with Greg Cagle
2w ago00:35:14Tap to summarizeWhat if reigniting your imagination could unlock possibilities for your life and leadership you never thought were possible? In this episode of Leaders of Transformation, Nicole Jansen welcomes back leadership expert, executive coach, and author Greg Cagle to discuss his powerful new book, Reality Benders. Greg shares how our beliefs shape our behaviors, how emotions fuel outcomes, and why most people unknowingly live in reactive cycles instead of intentionally creating the future they truly want. Together, Nicole and Greg explore how to reignite imagination, challenge limiting beliefs, and unlock new possibilities in leadership, business, and life. They also unpack the neuroscience behind transformation, the power of curiosity, and how leaders can become "external catalysts" who help others see beyond current limitations and step into their highest potential. What We Discuss in this Episode Why reality is something we create — not simply something that happens to us The "Reality Cycle" and how thoughts, behaviors, and outcomes reinforce one another Why behavior modification alone rarely creates lasting transformation How beliefs drive behaviors and shape long-term results The hidden role emotion plays in achieving meaningful goals Why imagination is essential for transformation and innovation How curiosity reignites imagination and unlocks possibility Why most people unconsciously limit what they believe is possible How to move beyond survival thinking and create an intentional future The connection between imagination, emotion, and extraordinary outcomes How leaders unintentionally reinforce limiting realities in their teams The difference between focusing on performance gaps vs. reinforcing progress A powerful military case study on belief, performance, and transformation How to become an "external catalyst" for others Highlights and YouTube Chapter Titles 00:00 – Introduction to Reality Bending 02:00 – Why Greg Wrote Reality Benders 04:00 – What "Reality" Actually Means 06:00 – Why Behavior Modification Doesn't Work Long-Term 11:00 – Understanding the Reality Cycle 14:00 – Emotion as Fuel for Transformation 16:00 – Why Most Goals Fail 18:00 – The Military Performance Experiment That Changed Everything 22:00 – Future-Back Leadership vs. Past-Forward Leadership 24:00 – Seeing Yourself Differently First 26:00 – Becoming an External Catalyst for Others 29:00 – How to Reignite Your Imagination 31:00 – Why Most People Settle for Predictable Outcomes 34:00 – Unlocking Infinite Possibilities 37:00 – Final Encouragement for Leaders and Visionaries Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/552-reality-benders-how-to-reignite-your-imagination-and-unlock-infinite-possibilities-with-greg-cagle Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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551: Flying Right Side Up: A Better Way to Live, Lead and Grow with Nicole Jansen
4w ago00:15:49Tap to summarizeHow do you stay grounded when everything around you in shifting? After an intentional break, Nicole Jansen returns with a bold new vision for the Leaders of Transformation podcast. In this episode, Nicole shares why she stepped away, what she discovered in the stillness, and what's ahead in this powerful new chapter of the podcast. Nicole opens with a raw and honest reflection on the tension high achievers feel between striving and resting — and why the most productive thing you can do in certain pivotal moments is to pause. From there, she paints a vivid picture of the seismic shifts happening in the world today — economic, political, social, technological — and asks the question at the heart of this new season: How do you stay grounded when everything around you is shifting? Drawing on a striking dream about a pilot flying upside down without realizing it, Nicole introduces a powerful metaphor for how many of us pursue our goals: working hard, executing strategies — but doing it all in reverse. She challenges listeners to consider whether the way they're chasing their goals might actually be working against them — and invites us into a deeper exploration of what it looks like to grow faster, live with more peace and fulfillment, and make a lasting impact without sacrificing what matters most. This isn't about lowering your standards. It's about raising the bar by doing things the right way up. What You'll Discover in This Episode Why Nicole took a full three-month break and what she learned from it The one question every high achiever needs to sit with right now Why the world's "tectonic plate" shifts demand a new kind of leadership What LOT 5.0 is — and why it's a deepening, not a reboot The aviation concept of "spatial disorientation" and how it applies to your life What it means to be flying upside down in your business — and not know it How to experience more peace, fulfillment, and impact by doing less and being more The two reflection questions Nicole wants you to answer before the next episode Video Chapters 0:00 — Welcome Back 0:43 — Why High Achievers Struggle to Stop 3:46 — The Seismic Shifts Reshaping Our World 4:17 — Leaders of Transformation 5.0 7:02 — Where Do You Want to See Transformation? 9:41 — Nicole's Dream: The Pilot Flying Upside Down 10:59 — Flying Upside Down in Your Own Life 11:38 — A Better Way to Grow Your Business and Life 16:53 — Your Invitation for This New Season Resource Links Subscribe on YouTube to catch all the latest videos Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn
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550: Transform Your Next Vacation: Volunteer Abroad and Create Lasting Impact with Kimberly Haley-Coleman
Dec 3000:44:24Tap to summarizeWhat if your next vacation could transform lives—including your own? In this inspiring episode of the Leaders of Transformation podcast, host Nicole Jansen welcomes Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and executive director of GlobeAware - an award-winning nonprofit that has mobilized volunteers across more than 25 countries through service adventures that create lasting social impact. Kimberly shares how voluntourism, when done responsibly, goes far beyond traditional travel. These immersive experiences cultivate cross-cultural leadership, deepen human connection, and shift how people see the world - and themselves. From her own journey leaving the corporate world to building GlobeAware, Kimberly breaks down the power of meaningful service and the practical steps for participating in global volunteer projects. This conversation reveals why service travel isn't just about helping others - it's about developing resilience, gratitude, empathy, and a renewed appreciation for humanity. If you've ever wanted your vacation to mean more than photos and souvenirs - or you're seeking a powerful way to grow as a leader, family, or team - this episode may spark your next bold step. What We Discuss in This Episode How Kimberly's passion for cross-cultural service travel began What "voluntourism" really means—and how GlobeAware ensures ethical, responsible impact How volunteers and local communities benefit from service-based travel Why working alongside - not above - local populations creates sustainable change Who can participate in GlobeAware projects and how it works How COVID-19 forced nonprofits to innovate in international service travel The unique growth families and corporate teams experience through these programs How volunteers fund their trips and how GlobeAware remains financially sustainable The leadership challenges of running global programs in dynamic environments The lasting personal transformation participants experience—and why joy is central to it all 10 Key Takeaways Accessible Voluntourism: GlobeAware offers short-term service travel—often described as a "mini Peace Corps"—making global volunteering accessible to families, professionals, and corporate teams. Ethical, Community-Led Service: True impact begins with equality. Projects are designed and led by local communities, ensuring their needs and voices come first. Transformative Learning Through Experience: Side-by-side service fosters empathy, gratitude, and cultural awareness—especially powerful for families and young people. A Powerful Perspective Shift: Exposure to different ways of living reshapes views on privilege and consumption through experiential learning—not lectures. Simple, Supported Participation: Trips are tax-deductible and easy to join, with logistics like food, lodging, and bilingual coordinators fully managed. Leadership & Team Development: Corporate groups use GlobeAware experiences to build trust, resilience, gratitude, and cross-cultural leadership skills that translate back to the workplace. Sustainable Operating Model: Only 15% of program fees support operations; the rest directly funds project materials and local labor—without government funding. Resilience Through COVID: GlobeAware survived global shutdowns by pivoting to virtual programs, adapting health protocols, and reimagining community engagement. Redefining Impact: Success isn't measured by numbers alone—but by the lasting shifts in perspective, gratitude, and connection participants experience. Joy at the Core: Beyond impact, volunteering creates enduring joy—rooted in shared humanity and the simple act of serving together. Podcast Highlights & Timestamps 00:00 – Transformative Travel with Kimberly Haley-Coleman 03:23 – From Tourism to Purposeful Travel 07:49 – Lessons on Water Conservation 10:27 – Creating Meaningful Engagement Through Service 14:02 – The Ethical Evolution of Voluntourism 16:44 – Building Homes and Changing Lives 22:40 – Overcoming Barriers to Girls' Education 25:35 – Ending Child Labor Through Sustainable Solutions 28:19 – Adapting Service Travel During COVID 30:18 – Measuring Impact Beyond Numbers 34:46 – Reconnecting to Our Shared Humanity 39:15 – Traveling for Growth and Perspective 42:55 – Why Now Is the Time to Act 43:40 – Team-Building Through Shared Service Experiences Listen and empower your next journey to be one that transforms—not just the world, but you. Favorite Quotes It changes how you see the world, and it brings joy you can't get anywhere else. We often lose sight of what our standard of living is in North America. In Cambodia, you can have access to neither running water nor electricity and still be considered middle class. Experiential learning is so valuable—no lecture needed. Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/550-transform-your-next-vacation-volunteer-abroad-and-create-lasting-impact-with-kimberly-haley-coleman Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN
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549: Triple Win Leadership Coaching: Building Extraordinary Leaders, Teams and Results with Will Linssen
Dec 1600:31:14Tap to summarizeHow do you coach at scale - and still achieve measurable results? In this practical and results-driven episode, join us as Nicole Jansen sits down with Will Linssen, globally recognized leadership coach, CEO of Global Coach Group, and author of Triple Win Leadership Coaching. With his approach impacting over a million leaders across more than 30 countries, Will Linssen shares how leadership coaching can be scaled to deliver measurable results - not just for individual leaders, but for teams and organizations as a whole. Discover the revolutionary "triple win" methodology - an approach that ensures the leader wins, the team wins, and performance outcomes win. Explore why traditional coaching models fall short, how involving coworkers in the coaching process is a game changer, and how organizations can build a culture where everyone levels up together. Tune in as Will Linssen unpacks his journey from engineering to process-driven leadership development, offers data-backed strategies for coaching at scale, and reveals how AI is reshaping the future of leadership. Whether you're a coach, HR leader, or organizational executive, this conversation will reshape how you think about leadership transformation. What We Discuss in This Episode What is "triple win" leadership coaching and why does it matter? Why do most organizations fail to scale effective coaching—and how can that change? The pivotal roles of measurement, consistency, and co-worker feedback What truly drives sustainable leadership growth across an organization? How can coaches create structured AND customized programs for maximum impact? Will Linssen's journey: From industry insider to global coaching influencer The process mindset: Borrowing best practices from other business domains Where coaches, consultants, and organizations are missing the mark (and practical ways to fix it) Leveraging technology and AI for 21st-century leadership development Specific, actionable guidance for coaches growing their practice or impact in companies Podcast Highlights and Timestamps 00:00 – Leadership Is Not About Me, It's About We 01:08 – Scaling Coaching for Real Results 02:06 – Challenges and Solutions 04:00 – Why Classic Coaching Models Fail 05:37 – The Power of Stakeholder Feedback 08:27 – Customizing Leadership for Every Team Member 10:39 – Modeling a Feedback-and-Growth Culture 11:14 – From Industry Frustration to Process-Driven Coaching 13:20 – Building Leaders by Design 16:11 – The Art of Impactful Coaching 19:20 – Training Coaches for the Triple Win 23:33 – A Mindset Shift for Coaches and Organizations 26:43 – The Future of Leadership in the Age of AI Top 10 Takeaways for Triple Win Leadership Coaching Triple win coaching ensures leaders, teams, and business results all improve together. Most traditional coaching fails to deliver measurable, recognized improvement—only 18% of coworkers see change. Involve coworkers in setting leadership goals and gathering feedback for greater engagement, relevance, and results. Structure (a process-driven approach) is essential; it enables, not restricts, customization for every leader and situation. Regular measurement, action planning, and coworker feedback are vital for sustained coaching success. Coaches need both coaching skills and business frameworks - a program that addresses both sets up long-term impact. Leadership transformation is not just for leaders - it must cascade to teams and become part of culture. The process of developing leaders can borrow best practices from operations and project management, ensuring scalability. AI is changing what leaders and coaches need to do - the key shift is leveraging data and feedback to put ideas into action. Lasting transformation depends on taking action. Favorite Quotes On True Leadership: "Leadership is not about the leader. It's not me, it's about we. The more leaders understand that, the more they see coworkers need to be involved." On Results-Based Coaching: "At the end of the day, we're selling results. There's a lot of coaching people sell process, but people want to buy results." On Involving Teams: "If the leader gets better and the team doesn't get better, we're missing the point." Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/549-triple-win-leadership-coaching-building-extraordinary-leaders-teams-and-results-with-will-linssen/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN
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548: Freedom Over Fortune: Life Lessons from ZICO Founder Mark Rampolla
Dec 200:44:04Tap to summarizeHave you ever chased success, only to realize it didn't give you the freedom or fulfillment you hoped for? In this transformative episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Mark Rampolla - founder of ZICO Coconut Water, co-founder of Groundforce Capital, and author of The Entrepreneur's Guide to Freedom: 7 Steps to Living Beyond Limits. Mark shares a refreshingly honest look at building ZICO from his garage into a global brand which he sold to Coca-Cola for $200 million (before buying it back a few years later) - and the unexpected discovery that financial success alone doesn't guarantee meaning or joy. Together, Nicole and Mark dive into why entrepreneurs become trapped in the pursuit of more, how the success industry subtly shapes our definitions of achievement, and the practical steps to experiencing internal freedom and fulfillment—right now. If you've ever wondered why your wins still feel incomplete, this conversation offers a roadmap for shifting your mindset, avoiding burnout, and leading from a place of clarity and purpose. You'll also hear what investors truly look for in founders and why personal transformation is the hidden engine behind sustainable business growth, even in seasons of loss. What We Discuss in This Episode What does real success look like, and how does your definition evolve as you grow? Why do entrepreneurs remain stuck in the cycle of chasing more, and how does the success industry reinforce it? How can you prevent burnout and create genuine satisfaction while building your business? What are Mark's seven steps to entrepreneurial freedom and fulfillment? How does self-awareness open the door for personal and team transformation? Which inner habits and tools help you navigate challenges and create lasting freedom? What do top investors like Mark value in founders beyond revenue and metrics? How did losing his home in the Palisades wildfire reshape his perspective on what truly matters? Why is self-reflection essential for both business success and personal joy? How can you begin practicing fulfillment, peace, and purpose in your business today? Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 - Why Success Doesn't Equal Fulfillment 04:50 - Be Honest with Yourself 08:12 - How the Success Industry Creates Burnout 09:58 - Success Through Fulfillment and Presence 15:39 - Personal Growth Strategies for Entrepreneurs 17:44 - Shared Freedom and Self-Reflection 20:28 - Escaping the More Mindset 23:32 - Creating Challenges After Retirement 26:18 - Choosing Passion and Purpose 30:59 - Investor Insights: What Founders Must Know 32:54 - How to Lead with Purpose & Clarity 36:25 - Life Lessons from Losing Everything in a Fire 39:50 – Finding Freedom Within 10 Key Takeaways for Finding Freedom & Fulfillment Beyond Money 1. External success doesn't equal inner fulfillment. Financial wins feel good—but they rarely create the deep satisfaction we're truly seeking. 2. The success industry profits from your sense of not enough. Entrepreneurs are constantly sold the belief that the next achievement will finally make them happy. 3. Personal growth is the real engine of business growth. Your company can only expand to the level of your own self-awareness and development. 4. Fulfillment is available in the present moment. Freedom isn't something you achieve later - it's something you cultivate now. 5. Self-awareness creates genuine confidence. Seeing your strengths clearly - and owning your blind spots - accelerates your leadership. 6. Your limiting beliefs are not reality. Challenging your assumptions opens the door to new possibilities and breakthroughs. 7. Burnout undermines your whole ecosystem. Your team and your company feel the impact when you're depleted - renewal is non-negotiable. 8. Coachability and humility matter more than ego. Investors and partners look for leaders who are curious, adaptable, and willing to grow. 9. Loss can become a doorway to freedom. Releasing attachments to things reveals deeper sources of peace and inner security. 10. Lasting success is built on inner transformation. When you evolve on the inside, your relationships, leadership, and business naturally elevate. Favorite Quotes Your business can't grow if you don't. If I can build safety and security within me, without the house—that is liberating and powerful. What annoys us in another is a reflection of what's going on in us. Join Nicole Jansen for this powerful, eye-opening conversation with Mark Rampolla. Discover how to cultivate genuine freedom, fulfillment, and purpose - starting today - from the inside out. Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/548-freedom-over-fortune-life-lessons-from-zico-founder-mark-rampolla Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN
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547: Every Family Has a Story: The Power of Heritage Films with Chance McClain
Nov 1900:45:37Tap to summarizeIf someone were to make a documentary about your life, what moments would you want them to highlight? In this heartfelt episode, Nicole Jansen sits down with master storyteller, creative entrepreneur, and Heritage Films founder Chance McClain. With a background as diverse as his documentaries—army veteran, sports radio pioneer, musician, and filmmaker -Chance McClain has crafted more than 800 cinematic documentaries dedicated to preserving family legacies. Together, Nicole Jansen and Chance McClain dive deep into the art of legacy storytelling, the healing power of forgiveness, and why capturing the nuances of real life transforms memory into meaningful heritage. Discover how documenting your life, no matter how imperfect, can serve as a gift to future generations, shape family values, and mark a new chapter for your family's story. What We Discuss in This Episode If a documentary were made about your life, what stories and moments would you want to include? How is Chance McClain's eclectic background helping him capture family legacies? Why do families need to document their stories now, not later, and how do imperfections make stories more valuable? What role does forgiveness play in transforming family histories and breaking negative cycles? What surprises emerge when interviewing family members, and how do vulnerability and authenticity deepen connection? How can any family, regardless of budget, begin documenting stories today? What role does technology and curiosity play in modern storytelling? How do family values and cycles repeat or change—and what choices do we need to make for transformation? What message does Chance McClain want to leave for his children and future generations? Practical resources and first steps for preserving your family's legacy. 10 Key Takeaways for Preserving Your Family's Legacy Your family's stories are not just anecdotes—they're vital carriers of values and lessons for future generations. Imperfection adds authenticity; it's better to record your story now than wait for the "perfect" time. Technology—from phones to AI—makes documenting memories easier than ever. Vulnerability and real moments, eye rolls included, transform documentaries into true heritage. Forgiveness breaks cycles, allowing families to heal and grow in new directions. Every family has hidden struggles; acknowledging them opens doors to deeper connection. Consciously choosing which stories and values to highlight sets new legacy standards. What you say about yourself (busy, tired, "hard") shapes your mindset and actions. Collaboration with loved ones enriches your family film and honors your unique story. Legacy means giving roots and wings: the truth of where you came from and the freedom to chart a new path. Favorite Quotes from Heritage Films Founder, Chance McClain "Forgiveness matters. At some point, you've got to just cut it and forgive." "It's not just the stories, it's the values you're really capturing." "If you take out the quirks, you're lying. Keep it real." "You can break cycles or continue them. It's a decision, and willpower is key." Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/relationships/547-every-family-has-a-story-the-power-of-heritage-films-with-chance-mcclain Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN
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546: How to Succeed as a New Manager: Lessons from UPS and Beyond with Noel Massie
Nov 400:51:43Tap to summarizeWhat if the secret to thriving as a new manager is not found in your title, but in how you show up—day after day—for your peers and team? In this hands-on episode of Leaders of Transformation, we sit down with Noel Massie, former VP of US Delivery Operations at UPS and author of the essential guide Congrats! You've Been Promoted. Drawing on over forty years of frontline leadership, Noel Massie reveals what it really takes to succeed when you step into a supervisory role—no matter your age or experience. Sharing stories from UPS and practical wisdom for new managers, Noel Massie unpacks the core habits that set effective leaders apart: cultivating peer champions, learning from mentors, embracing patience, and investing in hands-on growth. This episode is jam-packed with actionable advice, role-play techniques, and concrete strategies to help you transition, inspire, and lead with confidence from day one. Whether you're newly promoted or preparing for your first management position, you'll find motivation, real-world examples, and a blueprint for turning your promotion into lasting impact. What We Discuss in this Episode The biggest mindset shift required for new managers. How "showing up" for others creates lasting influence in any organization. Why coaching and humility are indispensable for growth. What proactive steps every manager should take immediately after promotion. Real-world role plays: handling difficult team members and conflict—UPS style. The importance of embodied leadership values (not just policies). How to understand and align with your team's core motivators. Practical ways to build trust and respect on the front lines. Breaking through impatience and career plateaus as a leader. Feedback mechanisms for continual growth. Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 Leadership Tips for New Managers 06:22 Career Journey Growth Through Mentorship 08:59 Be a Team Player 11:44 Lessons from a Barbershop 15:17 Humility Fuels Entrepreneurial Growth 17:46 Success, Expectations and Control 22:15 Practical Leadership for Frontliners 25:41 Core Values and Boundaries 28:52 Servant Leadership Mindset Explained 30:19 Leadership Shifting Focus From Self 33:28 Effective Leadership Through Listening 37:13 Origins of Core Values 42:26 Leadership: A Transformative Progression 45:50 Bridging Leadership Culture Disconnects 48:04 Leadership Requires Frontline Support 50:38 Reflect on Leadership Feedback 10 Key Takeaways for New Managers Success begins with serving others—help your peers; they'll become your champions and advocates. Coaching is essential at every level; seek mentors and role models, and don't hesitate to learn from them. Be patient and humble; accept feedback and make corrections—that's how real growth happens. Give more than you expect to receive; generosity builds organizational trust and influence. Find out who excels in your team or company—study their habits and build relationships. After being promoted, invest in developing your leadership skills; don't wait for formal training. Role play and rehearse difficult scenarios so you're prepared for tough conversations. Make culture tangible by putting values like integrity, respect, and communication into daily action. Meet with your team members individually; discover their motivators and non-negotiables. Request honest feedback and commit to self-reflection—leadership is a continual discipline. Favorite Quotes "You can't hope to get more than you give." "Leadership isn't just a promotion—it's a discipline." "Culture is built at the top, but it's executed at the bottom." Ready to transform your approach and succeed as a new manager? Dig into this episode, grab Noel Massie's book, and start practicing—because real leadership is learned on the ground, one interaction at a time. Episode Resources https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/546-how-to-succeed-as-a-new-manager-lessons-from-ups-and-beyond-with-noel-massie Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN
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545: Transforming a Simple Idea Into a $75M Success Story | Collars & Co Founder Justin Baer
Oct 2100:37:08Tap to summarizeHow do you turn a personal frustration into a $75 million brand—with no experience in the industry? In this episode of Leaders of Transformation, host Nicole Jansen interviews Justin Baer, founder of Collars & Co., who transformed a simple idea—a dress-collar polo shirt—into one of the fastest-growing luxury menswear brands in America. With no background in fashion and a long history of entrepreneurial experiments (and failures), Justin shares how he built a multimillion-dollar brand through relentless action, rapid testing, and the courage to launch imperfect ideas. His story of Shark Tank success and partnership with Mark Cuban reveals how persistence, timing, and customer feedback can turn a simple product into a household name. You'll learn: How to identify business opportunities from everyday frustrations Why "done" is better than "perfect" when launching a new product The power of storytelling and viral marketing (including the TikTok video made by his daughter) How to scale fast while staying true to your brand vision What it takes to go from side hustle to a $75 million business in just three years If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or aspiring business leader, this conversation will inspire you to take action—before you feel ready—and trust the process of learning, testing, and growing along the way. 🎧 Tune in to discover how bold experimentation and faith in your vision can lead to extraordinary results. Episode Highlights 00:00 — Perfection Is the Enemy of Progress: Launch Before You're Ready 01:20 — From Frustration to Fashion: The Birth of Collars & Co. 03:35 — Going Viral: The TikTok Video That Changed Everything 04:39 — Overnight Success? The Truth Behind Years of Failures 05:54 — 50+ Business Ideas Later: How Failing Fast Led to Breakthrough 10:46 — Inside Shark Tank: What Really Happens Behind the Scenes 14:00 — Partnering with Mark Cuban: Lessons from a Billionaire Investor 16:01 — When You Know You Have a Hit: Handling Hype and Criticism 19:33 — The Pandemic Effect: Perfect Timing Meets Preparation 21:03 — Leadership Lessons: Reinvesting, Scaling, and Staying Obsessed 24:45 — Smart Growth: Knowing When (and When Not) to Cash Out 26:01 — Scaling Up: New Channels, Product Expansion & Brand Momentum 27:33 — Listen and Pivot: How Customer Feedback Drives Innovation 31:18 — First Sales, Fast Testing, and Building Credibility from Scratch 33:47 — Think Big, Start Small: The Blueprint for Sustainable Growth 35:40 — Final Takeaway: Transformation Begins When You Take Action Favorite Quotes On Failure: "You learn when you lose. If it doesn't work, this isn't going to be your only idea. You'll come up with thirty more." On Perfectionism: "The shirt we launched four years ago is nothing like the shirt we have now. I didn't want to wait three years to create a perfect product—I wanted a minimal viable product." On Customer Feedback: "It's being open to pivoting and listening to your customers really intently. Where is the pain that you can solve for people?" Enjoy this episode and remember: leaders of transformation don't wait for perfect—they take action, iterate, and learn their way to exponential impact. Connect with Justin Baer Website: https://collarsandco.com Instagram: @collarsandco Full Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/545-transforming-a-simple-idea-into-a-75m-success-story-with-justin-baer-founder-collars-co Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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544: Unlocking Human Potential with AI: Steve Cadigan on Learning, Loyalty, and Workplace Transformation
Sep 3000:43:07Tap to summarizeHow can reframing your approach to talent, technology, and learning future-proof your entire organization? In this episode, Nicole Jansen sits down with Steve Cadigan—renowned talent strategist, former LinkedIn VP of Talent, and author of Workquake—to unlock what it means to truly lead in an era where work is being reinvented at lightning speed. Drawing on experience guiding LinkedIn through explosive growth, building world-class cultures, and advising the likes of Google and Harvard, Steve shares a bold blueprint for navigating AI, fostering "career security," and turning today's workplace challenges into tomorrow's breakthrough opportunities. Steve and Nicole challenge the status quo in how leaders approach AI, talent development, and organizational design. From leveraging AI to unleash human potential (not just cut costs), to building learning-centric cultures that attract and retain top talent—even in a world of short tenures and ever-evolving skills—this is essential listening for leaders ready to thrive in the future of work. Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Career Security vs. Job Security 1:40 – The Promise & Pitfalls of AI 4:10 – Asking Better AI Questions 9:24 – Discovering Hidden Talent 10:14 – Work Trends: Change & Upskilling 13:43 – AI Case Study: Prudential's Approach 16:07 – Rethinking Retention 21:13 – Learning Over Tenure 23:46 – Companies as Learning Hubs 31:14 – Growth Through New Challenges 34:09 – Embracing Experimentation 36:14 – Adaptability & Pandemic Lessons 41:13 – The Human Side of Tech 42:00 – Action Steps for Leaders 10 Key Takeaways Career Security Beats Job Security: The modern workforce values opportunities for growth over the false promise of long-term employment. Leaders that invest in employee learning build true loyalty and adaptability. AI is More Than Automation: Most companies only use AI to cut costs or replace jobs. Its real power lies in redefining work, solving new problems, and unlocking human creativity. Ask the Right Questions: "How can we use AI to rethink our work altogether?" opens far more potential than "How do we do this same process faster?" Hidden Talent Is Everywhere: Most organizations don't know the full extent of their people's skills. AI can help surface and map internal capabilities, opening up new pathways for growth and engagement. Experimentation Over Benchmarks: There are no established playbooks for this new era. Leading organizations experiment constantly—and learn quickly from the results. Retention is Out, "Returnship" is In: Rather than focusing on keeping people forever, forward-thinking companies build relationships that welcome alumni back and track who returns and why. Hire for Learning Agility: Technical skills expire fast; the ability to learn quickly is now the most sought-after trait in hiring and promotion. Break the Boxes: Job titles and prior roles excessively limit talent. When employees' true capabilities are surfaced, internal mobility and innovation soar. The Joy of Newness: Growth, engagement, and breakthrough innovation come from giving employees new challenges—even if they stretch comfort zones (and tenures are short). Reclaiming the Human Side of Tech: Leaders should use AI and digital tools to create more meaningful, joyful work experiences—not just greater efficiency. Ready to future-proof your organization? Dive in, get inspired, and take action. Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/544-unlocking-human-potential-with-ai-steve-cadigan Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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543: Resilience, Honor and Commitment: Leadership Lessons from POW Survivor Lee Ellis
Sep 900:43:02Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to build lasting resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity? In this inspiring episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Lee Ellis—leadership coach, award-winning author, Air Force veteran, and former POW in North Vietnam for over five years. Drawing on his extraordinary experiences of captivity, Lee shares practical wisdom on resilience, leadership, honor, and the true power of mission-driven living. Lee opens up about overcoming adversity as a prisoner of war, the critical role of commitment, faith, and community, and why self-acceptance and vulnerability are essential for real leadership. Together, Nicole and Lee explore what sets resilient people apart, how to bounce back after failure, and why having a strong sense of purpose can actually extend your life. Plus, Lee shares moving stories from his latest book Captured by Love and the unsung heroism of the POWs' wives. If you're seeking actionable inspiration on navigating hardship and leading with honor—at work or in life—this episode will equip you with the mindsets and tools you need most. What We Discuss in This Episode What helped prepare Lee for the POW experience? What was it like to be shot down and survive as a POW for over five years? How do purpose and mission drive resilience—even beyond extreme adversity? Why are POWs statistically more likely to outlive their civilian peers? What role did faith and community play in surviving captivity? How did the POWs bounce back mentally after giving in to suffering or failure? Why is embracing vulnerability—and owning your strengths and struggles—key for modern leaders? How can we apply these lessons to today's disconnected, anxious world? What are Lee's seven core behaviors for leading and living with honor? How did the wives and families fighting back home change the POWs' fate? Podcast Highlights & Timestamps 0:00 – Own Yourself: Build Resilience 1:19 – Meet Lee Ellis 2:30 – Farm Boy to Fighter Pilot 4:36 – Shot Down: Life Changes 6:48 – POW Survival Secrets 8:45 – Why POWs Live Longer 9:32 – Mission-Driven Resilience 11:13 – Bouncing Back from Defeat 13:02 – Hope: POW Wives' Fight 15:22 – Purpose Fuels Life 17:03 – Lead with Faith & Humility 18:28 – Vulnerability and Confidence 20:59 – 7 Core Leadership Behaviors 23:49 – Building Courageous Communities 25:47 – Isolation vs Connection 28:40 – Encouragement & Accountability 29:48 – The Myth of Lone Rangers 30:48 – Captured by Love 32:48 – Hidden Heroes: POW Wives 35:54 – Coming Home: The Release 36:48 – Lee's Modern Mission 40:05 – Build Your Own Resilience 41:51 – Your Uniqueness is Strength This is a must-listen conversation for anyone looking to deepen their resilience and lead with true honor—no matter what life throws at you. Favorite Quotes Self-Acceptance: "You got to know the good, the bad, the ugly about yourself and just own it. When you accept that, you're going to be secure, more confident, more humble. You can be more vulnerable. And that's a very important thing today." Resilience: "Everybody has to suffer in life. And what we learned is that we could recover from suffering if we kept our commitments." Community: "You've got to be in community… after suffering torture, to just have a word of encouragement—'Lee, you did your best.' That makes all the difference." Ready to transform how you face adversity and lead others? Dive in, reflect, and take action! Episode Resources https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/543-resilience-honor-and-commitment-leadership-lessons-from-pow-survivor-lee-ellis/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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