Podcast
Leadership Beyond Borders
Hosted by Kimberli J. Lewis · EN
Leadership Beyond Borders" by Siinda explores the dynamic realm of leadership, emphasizing a range of perspectives and strategies tailored for navigating the constantly evolving globalized digital landscape.
33episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Discipline Edge: From Training Floor to Business Strategy
2d ago00:52:51Tap to summarizeWhat can one of the most demanding physical disciplines teach us about leadership, decision-making, and success in business? In this episode, we explore how principles like alignment, adaptability, discipline, and awareness—developed through intense training—can be applied far beyond the physical arena. From handling pressure and navigating failure to improving negotiations and leadership, these lessons offer a powerful framework for growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or simply looking to sharpen your mindset, this conversation will challenge how you think about performance and resilience. Let's get started. About the Guest Benjamin Chen is the author of the new book Lessons from the Mat: The 12 Martial Arts Principles that Will Help You Succeed in Business and in Life, available at www.FromtheMatAcademy.com , is a serial entrepreneur, supply chain expert, and black belt in Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He has built successful businesses across industrial, enterprise software, cloud, and consumer internet sectors, earning a reputation for disciplined execution and strategic growth. He has served on the boards and senior management teams of four companies that later went public in the United States, raised more than $500 million in investment capital, and helped lead mergers and acquisitions across 30 transactions. His from-scratch lighting and controls business generated more than $250 million in revenue during its first six years. He is also a professor at Freedom Jiu Jitsu in Carlsbad, California, where he teaches the mindset, resilience, and leadership principles that shape both business success and personal growth. His experience blends finance, operations, negotiation, and elite training into practical lessons for modern leaders worldwide today. Guest social media - Website: www.FromTheMat.academy - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benjamin.chen?mibextid=wwXIfr - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benjaminchen88/?hl=en - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminchen88/ - YouTube: https://youtube.com/@fromthemat.academy?si=QY1hSSIIYH5mwt2O Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Clear Thinking in Complex Business Decisions
1w ago00:51:00Tap to summarizeToday's podcast explores how strong reasoning supports better decision-making, clearer communication, and the pursuit of truth in business. It examines how to navigate uncertainty, assess conflicting information, and apply sound judgment when outcomes are unclear. The discussion also highlights the importance of evidence, probability, and intellectual humility when advising others and making high-stakes decisions. About the Guest Haywood Spangler, Ph.D., M.Div., author of the new book Reasoning for Business: The Inquirer's Guide to Decision Making (Routledge, 2026), is the founder and principal of Work & Think, LLC. He advises clients on complex choices by combining rigorous analysis with a realistic understanding of uncertainty, risk, and human judgment. His Spangler Ethical Reasoning Assessment® (SERA®) is used across industries and around the world to help individuals unite critical thinking and personal values when making difficult decisions. He is a keynote speaker, corporate consultant, researcher, and author whose work strengthens leadership, accountability, and sound decision making in changing environments. Through practical frameworks, engaging presentations, and measurable tools, he equips organizations and professionals to reason clearly, act responsibly, and navigate ambiguity with confidence. Organizations value his ability to translate difficult ethical questions into clear action steps, improve team dialogue, and build cultures where better decisions become repeatable habits. Leaders trust his calm guidance during high-stakes moments and rapid change daily. Guest social media - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haywood-spangler-ph-d-m-div-b34715121/ -Website: www.haywoodspangler.com Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Speaking to Influence: Communication That Drives Impact
2w ago00:51:12Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we take a deeper look at what it truly means to communicate with influence, inspired by Dr. Laura Sicola's Speaking to Influence. Why do some people naturally command attention while others struggle to be heard? And what role do perception, authenticity, and executive presence play in shaping how our message is received? We explore the fine line between persuasion, manipulation, and genuine influence, uncover the common blind spots that hold people back, and break down practical strategies for crafting messages that resonate. From choosing the right words and using storytelling effectively to managing first impressions and navigating difficult conversations, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately. About the Guest Dr. Laura Sicola, author of Speaking to Influence: Mastering Your Leadership Voice, is a leadership communication and influence expert, renowned speaker, and coach. She empowers executives to become confident, inspiring leaders through on-camera training, workshops, and personalized coaching. Laura's mission focuses on helping leaders master the 3Cs of "Vocal Executive Presence": Command the room, connect with the audience, and close the deal. With over 20 years of experience, she has coached TED speakers, delivered her own TED talk with more than 7 million views, and appeared in major media outlets. Her clients include Comcast, GSK, and IBM. Laura holds a PhD in educational linguistics from the University of Pennsylvania, where she also served as faculty for ten years. Through her firm, Laura Sicola, Inc., she partners with executives, entrepreneurs, and experts to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact in high-stakes moments. Guest social media - Website: www.laurasicola.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlaurasicola/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlaurasicola - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LauraSicolainc/featured Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Leveling the Playing Field: Empowering Local Advertisers in the Age of AI
3w ago00:51:09Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, we explore the journey behind building a platform designed to help local businesses compete with larger brands in digital advertising. The discussion dives into the evolving challenges of the adtech landscape, the real impact of AI on campaign performance, and where hype still outweighs reality. It also unpacks common misconceptions about digital marketing, the metrics that truly matter for growth, and how technology is reshaping access to effective advertising. Looking ahead, the interview highlights key trends, innovations, and what the future may hold for local advertisers navigating an increasingly automated and data-driven world. About the Guest Mitchell Leiman is the Chief Executive Officer of iPromote, bringing over 25 years of professional experience, with a strong focus over the past decade on digital marketing and advertising for small businesses. He has held senior leadership roles at Gannett/WordStream, Vistaprint, and Constant Contact, and was also a partner at Bain & Company. Raised in a small business family, Mitchell grew up watching his parents successfully run Artplak Studios, a manufacturer of awards and plaques, for more than 50 years. He earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and graduated from Georgetown University. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, playing and watching sports, and spending time with his wife and their two teenage children. iPromote is an all-in-one digital advertising platform designed to help partners and their teams become experts in paid digital marketing. The platform automates ad creation, generates sales proposals, simplifies advanced targeting, and delivers omnichannel campaigns to reach the right audience at the right time. Its mission is to help partners scale growth for their SMB clients, reduce routine workload, and focus on strategy, performance, and revenue growth. Guest social media - Website: www.ipromote.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchell-leiman/ Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →The Enlightened Bottom Line: Where Purpose Meets Profit
May 500:48:45Tap to summarizeWhat if success in business wasn't just measured by profit—but by purpose, impact, and inner alignment? In today's episode, we explore a bold new vision for leadership that challenges traditional capitalism and invites us to rethink how we build, invest, and lead. From redefining legacy to integrating spirituality into decision-making, this conversation dives into what it truly means to create value—not just for shareholders, but for society and us. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to succeed in business without losing your soul, this episode is for you. Abou the Guest Jenna Nicholas is an author of the book The Enlightened Bottom Line: Exploring the Intersection of Spirituality, Business, and Investing, available at https://jenna-nicholas.com. She is an impact investor, and her work connects purpose, capital, and innovation worldwide. She is an entrepreneur and president of LightPost Capital, leading strategies that have helped direct billions of dollars toward sustainable solutions and inclusive growth. Through Impact Experience, she has helped bridge gaps between investors and underserved communities, expanding access to opportunity. Nicholas previously worked at the World Bank Treasury and Calvert Special Equities, building expertise across finance, development, and mission-driven markets. Her angel investments back bold ventures in fintech, health care, and climate solutions. She has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur, member of the Council on Foreign Relations, Stanford Social Innovation Fellow, and Echoing Green Fellow. She earned BA and MBA degrees from Stanford and studied at Oxford. Guest social media - Website: https://www.jenna-nicholas.com/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenna.nicholas.35 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennanicholas1/?hl=en - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennanicholas/ Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Leading Through Fear: The High Cost of Control
Apr 2800:50:31Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we dive into fear-based leadership — a management style built on intimidation, pressure, and the constant threat of consequences. Over the past few years, this approach has been on the rise. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and a culture of constant performance metrics have left many leaders leaning into fear as a way to maintain control. While it can create short-term compliance, the long-term cost is steep: it stifles innovation, erodes trust, and takes a serious toll on employee well-being. We also look at why leaders resort to fear, the damage it causes to teams and culture, and what healthier alternatives look like. Together, we uncover how to spot fear-driven tactics and, more importantly, how to replace them with strategies that inspire confidence, resilience, and collaboration. About the Guest Kate Lowry is the author of, Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders, a guide to navigating and succeeding under challenging leadership. She is a CEO coach, venture capitalist, and author based in Silicon Valley. An expert in fear-based leaders, Kate developed her methodology through her experiences growing up in a hierarchical family and later honed it in the high-pressure environments of start-ups, private equity, management consulting, and big tech, including McKinsey, Meta, and Insight Partners. With a unique blend of personal insight and professional expertise, she helps executives thrive in even the most demanding situations. In her free time, Kate enjoys writing comedy and music and spending time with her beloved service dog, Annie. Learn more at katelowry.com. Guest social media - Website: https://www.katelowry.com/ https://www.scaleheart.co/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejlowry/ - Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR1G981Y/ref=sr_1_2 https://www.amazon.com/Unbreakable-Thrive-Under-Fear-Based-Leaders-ebook/dp/B0FQ71FW72/ref=sr_1_1 Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Beyond the Buzzwords: What Inclusion Really Means
Apr 2100:50:51Tap to summarizeWhat does inclusion really mean beyond policies and buzzwords? This podcast explores inclusion as a human experience and a leadership imperative—how people feel seen, valued, and able to contribute. Through real conversations on bias, belonging, and leadership, we look at what inclusion truly looks like in everyday moments. Because inclusion isn't just about who's in the room—it's about how people experience being there. About the Guest Dr. Riza Kadilar was the President of EMCC Global between 2017 and 2024, and she is the author of The Contemporary Leader: The Value of Inclusion in Successful Leadership, published by Wiley in December 2024. The book explores how inclusive leadership drives success in today's complex organizations and is available through major retailers like Amazon and Wiley. With over 30 years of senior banking leadership experience across France, the UK, the Netherlands, and Turkey, Dr. Kadilar has built a career focused on human capital and business growth. He also founded RK Academy to expand access to high-quality learning. A visiting professor, international keynote speaker, and author of seven leadership books, Dr. Kadilar is widely recognized for his contributions to leadership and professional development. Guest social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BjJSKBsxZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.facebook.com/share/19e3XT75g4/?mibextid=wwXIfr LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rizakadilar Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Leading with Intention: How Purpose Fuels Power and Impact
Apr 1400:52:09Tap to summarizeToday's episode is about intention—and what happens when you stop operating on autopilot and start leading with purpose. We're diving into how clarity fuels confidence, how inner power is built during life's hardest moments, and how true leadership creates impact long after the spotlight fades. This is a conversation about resilience, alignment, and making intentional choices that shape not just success—but meaning. About the Guest Bianca D'Alessio is the author of the forthcoming book Mastering Intentions: 10 Practices to Amplify Power and Lead with Lasting Impact (Savio Republic, Aug. 5, 2025), a practical guide for high achievers seeking to lead with clarity, purpose, and sustainable influence. Drawing on her experience at the top of one of the world's most competitive industries, the book offers actionable practices for harnessing intention as a source of power, presence, and long-term success. She is also the star of HBO Max's acclaimed series Selling the Hamptons and the top-ranked real estate broker in both New York City and New York State. As the founder of one of the highest-producing brokerage teams in the United States, Bianca oversees a $10 billion international real estate portfolio spanning luxury residential and investment markets. In addition to her brokerage work, Bianca writes a weekly column for Money Magazineand is a frequent expert voice in Forbes, The New York Times, Fox Business, Medium, and The Real Deal. Known for combining strategic precision with mindset mastery, she continues to shape how leaders think about power, growth, and lasting impact. Guest social media - Website: www.biancadalessio.com - Facebook: facebook.com/bianca.dalessio.3 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biancadalessio/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biancadalessio/ Host social media -Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →Scaling SEO in 2026: Winning Strategies for Agencies & SMBs
Apr 700:51:38Tap to summarizeToday's podcast explores how SEO is evolving in 2026 and what it means for agencies and SMBs navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape. We dive into the impact of AI, shifting search behaviors, and why SEO remains a critical growth channel—especially as more small and medium-sized businesses choose to outsource it. Today we unpack the latest trends shaping SEO, practical strategies for agencies to scale and win clients, and what truly drives results and long-term retention. Whether you're building an SEO offering or refining your approach, this conversation brings together insights on growth, execution, and the future of search. About the guest Nic Padilla is the Director of Business Development at Boostability, a global white label SEO provider supporting agencies and partners in more than 15 countries. With a strong focus on scalable and sustainable growth, he helps agencies expand their service offerings through SEO, local optimization, and AI-driven strategies without increasing internal overhead. Nic has worked with thousands of partners worldwide, enabling them to build predictable recurring revenue streams and improve long-term client retention. Boostability is a leading white label SEO provider that helps digital agencies, SaaS companies, and marketing firms scale their services without adding operational complexity. Serving over 30,000 customers globally, the company delivers affordable, scalable SEO solutions, including local SEO, link building, and AI-powered optimization strategies. With dedicated support, transparent reporting tools, and a proven fulfillment model, partners can confidently deliver measurable results while staying focused on growth. Guest social media -Website: https://www.boostability.com/ -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/boostability/ -Twitter/X: https://x.com/Boostability Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
Transcribe →High-Altitude Framework
Mar 3100:49:58Tap to summarizeToday, we're exploring a challenge many entrepreneurs face: building a successful business that still feels overwhelming behind the scenes. Even when things look great on paper, founders often feel stuck making every decision and constantly putting out fires. In this conversation, we'll explore the High-Altitude Framework™, a leadership approach that helps entrepreneurs move beyond reactive problem-solving, navigate key tensions, and build businesses where teams take real ownership. If you've ever felt like your business depends on you for everything, this discussion offers a fresh perspective on leadership and growth. About the Guest Chris Clearfield is the co-author of Meltdown: Why Our Systems Fail and What We Can Do About It, which won the National Business Book Award and the Thinkers50 Strategy Award for its insights into complexity, failure, and resilience. His latest book, The High-Altitude Entrepreneur, offers a roadmap for sustainable growth, helping leaders stay focused on what matters most while building organizations that thrive under pressure. Learn more at highaltitudebook.com. Chris Clearfield is a leadership strategist, author, and Harvard-trained scientist who helps high-performing entrepreneurs scale their companies without becoming the bottleneck in their own success. As an author and expert in complex systems and risk management, he partners with founders and senior executives to navigate uncertainty, redesign decision-making processes, and build teams that operate with clarity, ownership, and ease. His work blends rigorous research with practical tools leaders can apply immediately to improve performance and resilience. Chris has advised and coached leaders at fast-growing startups, SMEs, and global organizations, including Netflix, Microsoft, Etsy, and ExxonMobil. He is the co-author of Meltdown: Why Our Systems Fail and What We Can Do About It, which won the National Business Book Award and the Thinkers50 Strategy Award for its insights into complexity, failure, and resilience. His latest book, The High-Altitude Entrepreneur, offers a roadmap for sustainable growth, helping leaders stay focused on what matters most while building organizations that thrive under pressure. Learn more at highaltitudebook.com. Guest social media - Website: www.clearfieldleadership.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisclearfield/ Host social media - Website: www.siinda.org - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/
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