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B2B Leadership Podcast

B2B Leadership Podcast

By Nils Vinje

The B2B Leadership Podcast is hosted by best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje. Each week Nils sits down with leaders in the B2B space to discuss their leadership journey and what they've learned along the way.

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Using the Truth To Inspire Trust in Leadership with Mark Stouse

B2B Leadership PodcastJan 18, 2023

00:00
47:42
The Impact of Economic Uncertainty on Leadership and Hiring with Maranda Dziekonski

The Impact of Economic Uncertainty on Leadership and Hiring with Maranda Dziekonski

In this episode, host Nils Vinje welcomes back Maranda Dziekonski for a wide-ranging discussion on leadership practices and challenges currently facing the tech industry.


They tackle the impact of the current economic uncertainty on hiring, discuss how layoffs are affecting organizations, and give insights into key program cuts in the industry.


Nils and Maranda also delve into the long-term implications of leadership decisions and the importance of investing in DE&I and Learning and Development programs.


Have a listen and get equipped for leading in uncertain times.


Podcast highlights:

1:50 - Current State of the Tech Sector and Its Challenges


2:52 - Hiring Side: An Insider's Perspective


4:00 - Impact of Layoffs on the Tech Industry


5:42 - Overwhelming Process of Handling a High Volume of Applicants


10:33 - Importance of Fairness in the Hiring Process


11:27 - Consequences of Cutting Key Programs in Organizations


23:23 - Importance of Continuous Learning and Development


31:06 - Long-Term Impact of Current Decisions on Organizations



Connect with Maranda at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marandaanndziekonski/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to turn your leadership challenges into success.


The product of more than a decade of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide


Feb 28, 202434:53
From VP to C-Suite: Navigating the Shift in Leadership Roles with David Karp

From VP to C-Suite: Navigating the Shift in Leadership Roles with David Karp

In this episode, host Nils Vinje interviews guest David Karp, the Chief Customer Officer at DISQO.


They discuss the journey and transition from a VP role to the C-suite, the professional mindset and approach needed at the executive level, and the importance of fostering a constant learning attitude and authentic connections across all departments.


David emphasizes the significance of being customer-oriented, nurturing one's curiosity, and maintaining a customer-centric lens as a Chief Customer Officer.


Furthermore, he shares insights about his journey, personal anecdotes, and the valuable lesson of focusing on helping others succeed.


Podcast highlights:

0:22 - David's Background


2:38 - Creating Value for Customers and the Business


5:54 - Power of Asking the Right Questions


8:46 - Transitioning from VP to CCO


12:56 - The Journey to Customer-Centric Leadership


19:28 - Working on the Business vs. In the Business


32:35 - David’s advice to himself



Connect with David at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidalankarp/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Feb 14, 202436:08
The ROI of Investing in Leadership Skills: A Case Study with Derek Squires

The ROI of Investing in Leadership Skills: A Case Study with Derek Squires

Ever wondered if your career could be more than just a path directed by others?


In this episode, Nils Vinje discusses leadership development with guest Derek Squires.


They delve into Derek's background, his career progression, and lessons learned from investing in himself as a leader.


Derek shares how embracing the idea of being the CEO of his career has enhanced his clarity, confidence, and ability to tackle any challenge.


He also shares his experience in the Leadership MBA program and how it has increased his productivity and brought him tangible results in his work.


Ready to take charge of your career trajectory?


Join the conversation now and discover how investing in yourself can lead to a more empowered, confident, and successful professional journey.


Elevate your skills, tackle challenges head-on, and become the CEO of your own career.


Podcast highlights:

0:47 - Derek’s Background


4:58 - The Need for a Leadership Framework


12:40 - The Impact of Improved Productivity


14:13 - Becoming the CEO of Your Career


19:54 - Taking Control of Your Career


21:52 - Power of Self-Investment


24:21 - ROI of Self-Investment


30:44 - The Continuous Journey of Self-Investment


35:55 - Embracing the CEO Mindset



Connect with Derek at https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-squires/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Jan 31, 202438:45
Empowering Women Leaders: Insights and Strategies for Success with Catherine Blackmore

Empowering Women Leaders: Insights and Strategies for Success with Catherine Blackmore

In this episode, Nils Vinje welcomes returning guest Catherine Blackmore to discuss diverse topics around leadership development, especially focusing on women leaders.


They delve into the concept of personal leadership, the prevalence of the 'inner critic' that tends to impede individuals' progress, explaining that this is seen more in women.


In addition, they reflect on biases in the workplace which often create hurdles for women.


Tune in for a lively discussion on self-confidence, strategic acumen, and personal branding, all keys to fostering a sense of belonging in the workplace.


Discover how to navigate career challenges and the power of asking for help.


Don't miss this empowering episode!


Hit play now and level up your leadership game!


Podcast highlights:

1:02 - The Notion of Employee Success


4:56 - Understanding Personal Leadership and Team Leadership


11:30 - The Role of Mentorship and Sponsorship in Leadership


19:45 - Addressing the Inner Critic in Leadership


28:23 - The Misconception of ‘Working Harder’ for Success


30:59 - The Evolution of Employee-Employer Relationships


36:34 - Overcoming Inner Critic


46:26 - Working Harder is Not the Answer



Connect with Catherine at https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineblackmore/


Check the "Mastering Your Inner Critic" book here 


Check out these TED Talks mentioned in the show: 

The career advice you probably didn't get by Susan Colantuono 

Your body language may shape who you are by Amy Cuddy



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Jan 17, 202448:23
The Financial and Professional Gains of Going Alcohol-Free with James Swanwick

The Financial and Professional Gains of Going Alcohol-Free with James Swanwick

Ever wondered if your nightly drink is more costly than it seems? 


In this episode, James Swanwick, founder of Alcohol-Free Lifestyle, returns to discuss with Nils how a healthier relationship with alcohol can lead to income growth, career advancement, and a boosted mindset.


Plus, they delve into the hidden costs, both financial and personal, that often go unnoticed.


Get insights from the man behind the revolutionary Project 90, boasting a staggering 98% success rate in reducing drinking.


Discover the five pillars of the program and how it's transforming lives.


Ready to make a change?


Join now in challenging societal norms around alcohol. 


Elevate your clarity, focus, and career potential by embracing sobriety.


Podcast highlights:

0:00 - Introduction: The Misconceptions of Quitting Alcohol


5:40 - The Socially Acceptable Drinker: A Hidden Problem


8:49 - The Cost of Drinking: Health, Wealth, and Relationships


20:44 - The Cost of Alcohol Consumption


22:54 - The University Study on Alcohol Consumption


24:27 - The Results of the Study


30:06 - The Importance of Investment in Change


39:13 - The Alcohol Freedom Formula



Connect with James at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesswanwick/


Learn more about Alcohol-Free Lifestyle at https://alcoholfreelifestyle.com/homepage


Explore the free guide, the Alcohol Freedom Formula, at https://alcoholfreelifestyle.com/nils



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Jan 10, 202442:04
How To Be A Leader Without A Title with Chris Tazewell

How To Be A Leader Without A Title with Chris Tazewell

In this episode, Nils talks to Chris Tazewell, about the concept of 'Leadership without a Title', discarding the notion that recognition solely comes from high positions.


They discuss how investments in oneself and relationships with others are two key elements in successful leadership.


Chris also shares his experience organizing a leadership summit, highlighting the value of identifying opportunities, recommending improvements, and expanding one's perspective.


They converse about the importance of engaging in problem-solving, using challenges as a platform for growth, and being open to learning more.


Insights into how to excel in stressful situations, the need for impact, influence, and inspiration in leadership, and the benefits of adapting to changing roles and environments are also shared.


Chris encourages emerging leaders to seek opportunities that result in change and personal growth. 


Tune in to gain valuable insights that challenge conventional notions of leadership and inspire a fresh approach to making a meaningful impact in your professional journey.


Podcast highlights:

0:20 - Take action, get rewarded - Chris shares how he became a guest on the podcast.


2:30 - Concept of leadership without a title - Chris explains why this topic is important.


4:04 - Organizing a leadership summit - Chris shares how he and his co-president organized a leadership summit, including the initial idea, pitching it to the CEO, and the outcome.


10:19 - Leadership transition challenges - Nils and Chris talk about the difficulties of transitioning from an individual contributor to a leader and the ongoing struggle to shift focus from oneself to the team.


14:34 - Identifying trends and problem-solving - How to surface issues and trends in a team or organization, and take responsibility for finding solutions and presenting them to the team or leadership?


21:14 - Investing in yourself - Nils emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself and shares personal experiences of how investing in his own development led to career growth and success.


25:05 - Importance of relationships - Chris discusses the significance of building and maintaining relationships in leadership, highlighting the need to collaborate, influence, and motivate others to achieve common goals.


30:32 - Power of asking questions - Chris highlights the value of asking questions and empowering others to find solutions.



Connect with Chris at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christazewell/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Dec 13, 202335:51
Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Journey of Leadership and Evolution

Celebrating 100 Episodes: A Journey of Leadership and Evolution

In this special milestone episode, Nils takes a reflective dive into the journey that has shaped both his podcast and business.


Gain insights into the importance of adopting a long-term view in life and discover how Nils diversified his consulting business after the pandemic.


Explore the strategies and principles from his latest book, "The 30-Day Leadership Playbook," and delve into the four pillars of leadership embedded in his impactful training programs. 


Uncover the transformative experience offered by the 12-week Leadership MBA program designed to empower leaders at every level.


Don't miss this celebratory episode packed with wisdom, insights, and a vision for the future of leadership!


Podcast highlights:

1:05 - Evolution of business and podcast - Nils reflects on the evolution of his business from customer success consulting to writing a book and running training programs.


2:08 - Challenges during the Pandemic - Nils discusses how his consulting business disappeared during the pandemic and the need to find new opportunities to sustain their business.


8:20 - Creating the Leadership MBA - Nils explains the transition from a membership model to the creation of the Leadership MBA, a 12-week live training program for leaders.


18:15 - Bird’s eye view - Nils shares how his podcast helps him understand the paths leaders took to reach their current positions.


20:00 - Becoming the CEO of your career - Nils emphasizes the importance of taking control of one's career, making decisions, and not relying on others to dictate growth and development.


21:52 - The power of being resourceful - Nils highlights the value of resourcefulness in acquiring skills and opportunities, regardless of financial constraints, to add more value to oneself and others.



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Nov 29, 202328:42
How To Build a Successful Team with Eddie Christian

How To Build a Successful Team with Eddie Christian

Ever wondered about the core elements of effective leadership?


In this episode, Nils Vinje hosts Eddie Christian, founder, and CEO of Athfluency Consulting Group.


Eddie shares his leadership style, emphasizing trust, transparency, and a clear vision that binds a successful team.


Explore the dynamics of internal and external customer relationships and the crucial role of alignment for enhanced customer experiences.


Tune in for valuable insights on supporting teams through challenges, creating a safe space for expression, and the pivotal role of one-on-one meetings in fostering a supportive workplace!


Podcast highlights:

0:21 - Eddie’s background - Eddie shares what Athfluency Consulting Group is about.


3:31 - Building an army - What is one of the most important things critical to inspire a team or for a leader to consider and think about to inspire their team?


5:00 - Internal vs External customers - What are the differences and similarities between working with internal and external customers in a customer success role?


9:54 - Building a vision - Eddie shares the importance of starting with a clear vision and breaking down individual contributions to achieve the goal.


15:25 - Gaining confidence - Eddie talks about encouraging team members to have confidence in their expertise and knowledge, even when communicating with higher-level executives.


19:01 - Building a supportive team - Why is it crucial to genuinely support your team in challenging situations, and what kind of influence does such support have on their motivation and loyalty?


26:42 - Carving out time for one-on-ones - Eddie shares advice on prioritizing regular one-on-one meetings with team members to address their concerns, unblock obstacles, and show genuine care and support.


29:50 - Creating a safe space for venting - Why is it important to create an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their frustrations and concerns, free from the worry of judgment or repercussions?



Connect with Eddie at https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-christian/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Nov 15, 202332:26
How To Sell Value and Quantify ROI with Ian Campbell

How To Sell Value and Quantify ROI with Ian Campbell

In this episode, Nils welcomes guest Ian Campbell, author of "The Value Sale," to discuss selling value and quantifying ROI in sales.


They explore the concept of value and benefits using the example of selling alligators and delve into different levels of benefits.


Ian emphasizes the importance of grounding benefits in numbers, focusing on the top two benefits, and reframing the conversation to make it more relatable and impactful.


They also discuss the value equation in leadership development and the significance of focusing on payback rather than ROI when selling a product or service.


Tune in for more transformative discussions and redefine your approach to strategic selling today!


Podcast highlights:

0:44 - The alligator story - Ian shares an absurd example of selling alligators and how the value of the opportunity can change perception.


3:42 - Different levels of benefits - Ian explains the concept of first-order, second-order, third-order, and fourth-order benefits and how they vary in credibility and variability.


11:00 - Avoiding the fourth-order benefit -  Ian advises against discussing fourth-order benefits as they can weaken the business case and recommends focusing on fewer, stronger benefits.


15:29 - Grounding benefits in quantifiable numbers - How does quantifying benefits in sales conversations help in upselling and building customer references?


18:44 - The significance of financial reasons for CFOs -  Ian highlights the importance of presenting financial reasons to CFOs when selling a SaaS product and how it helps in defending the decision and gaining internal support.


20:58 - Value equation for leadership development - How to approach and communicate the value of leadership development, even though it may be considered a third-order benefit?


27:15 - Using a range instead of a benchmark - Ian shares the benefits of using a range instead of a single benchmark number to avoid pushback and allow for individualized discussions about productivity increase.


31:17 - Payback period -  Ian discusses the significance of covering costs within a specific timeframe and the psychological impact it has on decision-making.


33:27 - Three real benefits for customers - Ian explains the three main benefits a customer can expect and how to determine which benefit is most relevant in a given situation.



Connect with Ian at https://www.linkedin.com/in/iancampbellnucleusresearch/


Check out his book “The Value Sale” at https://www.thevaluesale.com/


Learn more about Nucleus Research at https://nucleusresearch.com/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Nov 08, 202339:33
Mastering the Art of Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams with Kristin O'Neill

Mastering the Art of Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams with Kristin O'Neill

In this episode, Nils and Kristin O'Neill dive into the intricacies of leading remote and hybrid teams in our evolving work landscape.


They explore the challenges posed by the pandemic and strategies for effective leadership in these environments.


Kristin shares her expertise in managing remote teams, emphasizing productivity and employee engagement.


The discussion delves into vital aspects of remote leadership, including onboarding, ongoing engagement, clear communication, and meticulous documentation for streamlined team operations.


Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the complexities of leading teams in today's changing world of work.


Podcast highlights:

1:23 - Transition to remote work - Kristin discusses the difficulties she faced and her personal journey during the initial phases of transitioning to remote work.


4:24 - Fundamentals of leadership - Kristin shares her opinion on the fundamentals of leadership in a hybrid environment.


7:31 - Comparing the two worlds - Does leading remote or hybrid teams take more effort than in-person teams?


12:12 - Onboarding in a remote world - What are some of the key things that leaders should think about as they go into onboarding employees in a remote or hybrid environment where you're not going to be with them all the time?


14:05 - Setting expectations - How important is setting clear expectations for onboarding employees in hybrid or remote environments?


18:02 - Buddy system - Kristin discusses the buddy system she built to ensure daily connections between her team members in a hybrid or remote setting.


25:48 - Ongoing employee engagement - What are some of the key things leaders should be thinking about when it comes to ongoing employee engagement in a hybrid or remote environment?


30:53 - Consistency and flexibility - Kristin elaborates on the importance of consistency and flexibility in leading a hybrid team. 


32:22 - Engaging remote teams for innovation - What are some of the other elements of running a team that are going to take more effort, but are going to produce greater results in the long run in a hybrid or remote environment?


35:22 - The power of documentation - Kristin explains why having clear documentation and systems in place in remote or hybrid environments is important.



Connect with Kristin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/knoneill/



This episode is brought to you by the Leadership MBA.


The Leadership MBA is a 12-week comprehensive program that will give you all the practical tools you need to become a true leader and the CEO of your career.


The product of nearly 2 decades of leadership coaching Managers, Directors, and VPs at companies like Apple and Oracle, the Leadership MBA will show you exactly how to crack the leadership code through a proven step-by-step process.


Click here to download the Leadership MBA Program Guide

Oct 25, 202340:07
Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Cameron Marijosius Part 2

Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Cameron Marijosius Part 2

In this episode, Nils Vinje and Cameron Marijosius continue their discussion on emotional intelligence.


They delve deeper into the pillars of emotional intelligence, focusing on motivation, empathy, and social skills.


They share personal stories and insights related to motivation in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of having a positive attitude and being connected to one's work.


They explore the concept of empathy, discussing the ability to understand others' emotions and dynamics.


They also talk about social skills, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy in social interactions.


Tune in and seize the opportunity to enhance your emotional intelligence.


Podcast highlights:

1:07 - Motivation and its importance - Cameron discusses the meaning of motivation in the context of emotional intelligence and its significance in the workplace.


2:10 - Overcoming hurdles - How does Cameron overcome her struggles with motivation?


5:24 - Recognizing lost connection and taking action - Cameron shares the importance of recognizing when motivation is lost and taking the necessary steps to find a new path that aligns with one's values and goals.


8:49 - Pillar number four: Empathy - Cameron explains the meaning of empathy in the context of emotional intelligence.


13:03 - Power of empathy - Why is it important to strive for understanding and empathizing with the world of others?


17:36 - Social skills and behavior - Cameron discusses the misconception around social skills and the importance of behavior and actions in social interactions.


22:24 - Creating a positive social contract - Cameron shares the importance of establishing a social contract when starting a new team or working with a group of people.


28:26 - Building trust and open communication - How does establishing a foundation of trust and open communication from the outset contribute to fostering more meaningful conversations and facilitating the handling of difficult discussions?



Connect with Cameron at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-marijosius



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Oct 11, 202330:19
Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Cameron Marijosius Part 1

Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Cameron Marijosius Part 1

In this episode, Nils and Cameron explore the profound impact of emotional intelligence on leadership.


They share their personal experiences with emotional intelligence and how it has influenced their leadership roles.


They emphasize the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills in building emotional intelligence.


They also debunk common misconceptions about emotional intelligence and highlight its practicality and relevance in leadership.


Tune in and elevate your leadership game and unlock the power of emotional intelligence.


Podcast highlights:

1:50 - Discovering emotional intelligence - Cameron talks about how she learned about emotional intelligence through her career.


6:00 - Impact of emotional intelligence - Cameron discusses the impact of emotional intelligence on her self-perception and leadership style, including feedback from her team and the need to adapt in different situations.


11:25 - Common misperceptions of emotional intelligence - What are some of the most common misperceptions around emotional intelligence?


15:35 - Five pillars of emotional intelligence - What are the five pillars of emotional intelligence?


16:05 - Self-awareness - How important is self-awareness in emotional intelligence?


19:43 - Reacting vs responding-  Cameron explains the importance of pausing and choosing how to react in different situations.


22:52 - Heartbreaking experience - Cameron shares a personal example of a challenging situation that highlights the importance of self-regulation and emotional intelligence in leadership.


31:37 - Take a pause - How does pausing before responding to a conversation help in making better decisions and reducing defensive reactions?



Connect with Cameron at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-marijosius



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Sep 27, 202333:29
Unleashing Your Authentic Leadership Potential with Nadia Carta

Unleashing Your Authentic Leadership Potential with Nadia Carta

In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje interviews Nadia Carta, Head of Data Transformation at Google.


Nadia is a powerhouse of inspiration, known for her ability to spark zeal in others.


In our conversation, Nadia shared three key lessons from her 14-year tenure at Google: curiosity, authenticity, and aiming for big things. She believes that curiosity opens doors to new environments and genuine connections.


Authenticity and vulnerability, she says, are the building blocks of trust. And aiming for the impossible? That's what drives her to tackle challenging projects.


But it's not all about success. Nadia opened up about a recent experience of not getting a role she had prepared for. Despite the initial disappointment, she used this as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. This led her to launch the "Spark Your Zeal" movement, write a book, and start her own podcast on leadership.


Nadia's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of turning setbacks into stepping stones. She believes that by fully putting herself out there, she is giving others permission to do the same. This approach to business, which she calls "business with grace," focuses not only on numbers and plans, but also on building a next generation of humans who find fulfillment in meaningful work.


We also discussed the importance of being the CEO of your own career and taking charge of personal growth and development. Nadia emphasized the value of having a coach and engaging in daily practices like journaling and mindfulness meditation for self-awareness.


I hope Nadia's story inspires you as much as it inspired me. Remember, in life, there are only three answers: yes, not yet, and something better is coming. So, keep sparking your zeal and pursuing your dreams!


Podcast Highlights:

3:41 - Lessons learned from 14 years at Google

Nadia reflects on her 14-year tenure at Google, highlighting the importance of curiosity, authenticity, vulnerability, and aiming for big things in her leadership style.

8:19 - Dealing with rejection and learning from it

Nadia shares her experience of not getting a role she had prepared for, discussing the initial disappointment and the lessons she learned from the experience.

10:36 - The power of "something better"

Nadia reflects on her rejection in a job interview and how it led her to discover the concept of "something better" in life.

13:35 - The gift of rejection

Nadia explains how the rejection she faced allowed her to pause, ask herself tough questions, and give birth to her biggest dreams.

20:31 - The importance of putting oneself out there

Nadia shares how putting herself out there fully has given others permission to bring themselves more and has created a sense of belonging and thriving in the corporate world.

21:49 - Business with grace and creating an inclusive environment

Nadia discusses how she inspires her clients by not only focusing on tech and ads, but also on building a better future and creating a next generation of humans who fulfill themselves while doing meaningful work.

24:12 - Being the CEO of your career and leading oneself first

Neil and Nadia talk about the importance of being in charge of one's career, figuring things out, and leading oneself first in order to have a meaningful life and make a positive impact on the world.

30:29 - The importance of having a coach

Having a coach can provide external perspective and keep you honest with yourself.

31:51 - The power of journaling and mindfulness meditation

Journaling and mindfulness meditation can bring awareness and help align with your true desires.


Connect with
Nadia on Linkedin.

Sep 13, 202337:14
From Doubt to Confidence: How the B2B Leaders Academy Helped Spencer Polk Become the CEO of His Career

From Doubt to Confidence: How the B2B Leaders Academy Helped Spencer Polk Become the CEO of His Career

In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje interviews Spencer Polk, a member of the B2B Leaders Academy.


They discuss Spencer's experience in the academy and his previous management training. 


Spencer shares his dissatisfaction with a two-day seminar he attended and highlights how the academy's self-directed and collaborative approach changed the game.


They also discuss the importance of progress in learning and skill development, the concept of being the CEO of one's own career, and Spencer's growth in confidence through the academy.


If self-doubt is holding you back, Spencer highly recommends the B2B Leaders Academy for personal growth.


Tune in to this episode and get inspired to overcome your challenges and embrace your leadership potential.


Podcast highlights:

1:16 - Spencer’s background - Spencer explains his role and shares his experience with traditional management training.


2:53 - Self-directed approach - Spencer shares his experience coming into the academy and what he saw as being different and how it worked for him.


5:32 - Mastermind sessions - What value did Spencer get out of these weekly mastermind sessions inside the academy?


9:03 - Progress is key - How important is progress in staying committed and not quitting?


12:47 - Being the CEO of your career - This mindset changed Spencer’s perspective toward his career.


17:36 - What’s next for Spencer - Spencer shares taking a proactive approach to his career development.


20:42 - Advice to others - What advice would Spencer share with others if they were on the fence thinking about joining the B2B Leaders Academy but not 100% sure if this might be right for them?



Connect with Spencer at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/spencer-polk-099b5720



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Aug 16, 202324:07
From Frustration to Fulfillment: Embracing Detours for Personal Growth
Aug 09, 202306:48
6 Tips to Foster A Culture of Collaboration with Christine Lavery

6 Tips to Foster A Culture of Collaboration with Christine Lavery

Do you want to foster a culture of collaboration in your workplace?


In this episode, Nils Vinje and Christine Lavery discuss six tips for creating a collaborative environment.


They emphasize the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment, having clear roles and responsibilities, being able to compromise, aligning goals, setting clear expectations, and focusing on relationships.


By following these tips, organizations can create an environment where everyone feels valued and included, and where collaboration is the norm rather than the exception.


Listen to this episode to learn more about fostering a culture of collaboration in your workplace.


Podcast highlights:

2:04 - Psychological safety - Christine explains the importance of creating an environment of psychological safety to foster collaboration.


6:21 - Clear roles and responsibilities - Why is this so important in fostering collaboration?


9:46 - Compromise - Christine talks about how it can be challenging to truly be good at compromising.


14:40 - Alignment of goals - If you want to drive productivity and efficiency, and the getting to the end result, it comes down to this.


19:48 - Expectation setting - Christine shares the importance of setting clear goals and expectations to achieve greater collaboration in the workplace.


25:10 - Focus on relationships - How building relationships with everyone in the organization, regardless of their background, personality, or objectives can foster a culture of collaboration?



Connect with Christine at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-lavery/


Learn more about AgentSync at https://agentsync.io/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Aug 02, 202329:05
The Impact of Alignment With Your Work On Mental Health
Jul 26, 202310:53
How to Adapt Your Leadership Style with Dustin Tysick

How to Adapt Your Leadership Style with Dustin Tysick

Are you a leader struggling to adapt your leadership style to your employees?


In this episode, leadership coach, Nils interviews Dustin Tysick, host of the B2B Revenue Leaders Podcast and VP of Revenue at Testimonial Hero, about the importance of coaching and adapting to different personalities and processing styles.


Dustin suggests using tools like the Myers-Briggs test to understand employees' personality types and adapt leadership styles accordingly.


Overall, Dustin stresses the importance of self-awareness and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of team members in order to build a successful and engaged team.


Tune in to learn how to create a productive and efficient work environment by giving employees ownership and aligning their work with their strengths.


Podcast highlights:

0:50 - Dustin’s background - Dustin shares a little bit about his podcast and the company he works for.


4:21 - Reading the room - How important is it to take a pause and read the room, especially in emotionally charged situations?


6:05 - Self-awareness - Dustin shares tips on how leaders can take a pause.


8:07 - Meetings and preparation - Dustin explains why it’s important to have a meeting agenda and how should you prepare for it.


15:29 - Understanding employee functioning - What strategies does Dustin use to understand how their employees function and operate in different environments?


17:28 - Assessments for self-awareness - What are the benefits of assessments like Myers-Briggs and StrengthsFinder in providing language to describe natural talents and acknowledging weaknesses?


24:29 - Guardrails and freedom - How leaders can provide structure and guardrails for their employees to operate creatively within, leading to engagement and ownership.


28:36 - Getting specific on employee goals - Dustin discusses the importance of asking specific questions about what employees like and don't like about their roles, and how this can help leaders understand where to invest in their growth.


Connect with Dustin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustintysick/

Learn more about B2B Revenue Leaders Podcast at https://www.testimonialhero.com/b2b-revenue-leaders-podcast

Learn more about Testimonial Hero at https://www.testimonialhero.com/



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Jul 19, 202332:11
From Doubt to Belief: Empowering Your Leadership Journey
Jul 12, 202307:56
How to Inspire Your Team: Strategies for Empowering Employees with Sara Barnes

How to Inspire Your Team: Strategies for Empowering Employees with Sara Barnes

Do you want to inspire and empower your team?


In this episode, Nils Vinje and Sara Barnes share valuable insights on how to do it effectively.


One of the most important lessons is to recognize and celebrate employees' strengths.


By observing and identifying what truly inspires and energizes them, leaders can help their team members achieve their full potential.


Tune in to learn more about these strategies and how to implement them in your organization.


Podcast highlights:

1:11 - Empowering employees - Sara shares a couple of things on how to empower employees.


7:19 - Balancing long-term and immediate needs - When it comes to inspiring your team, why is it important to take a long-term view while balancing immediate needs?


9:55 - Fostering a culture of innovation - How does this makes employees feel valued?


12:28 - Building a team identity - How important is building a foundation for a team to operate off of?


19:47 - Psychology and tactics - This is so important but often overlooked.


20:35 - Fostering a collaborative environment - One of the things Sara learned early on working with Nils.


25:04 - What's in it for me? - WIIFM. Everyone's favorite radio station.


29:36 - Promoting continuous growth and learning - Sara shares the importance of observing employees and recognizing their strengths to empower them and provide growth opportunities.


31:13 - StrengthsFinder assessment - The language to describe what you're naturally talented to do.



Connect with Sara at https://www.linkedin.com/in/saracbarnes/


Learn more about Verifiable at https://verifiable.com/



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Jul 05, 202335:02
How Discovering Your Passion Can Transform Your Leadership
Jun 28, 202310:17
How to Have Difficult Conversations as a Leader with Paul Piazza

How to Have Difficult Conversations as a Leader with Paul Piazza

In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje talks to Paul Piazza, VP of Customer Success at Webex Events, about how to handle difficult conversations in a leadership role. They discuss the value of difficult conversations in building relationships and achieving growth, both personally and professionally.


Podcast highlights:

0:28 - Early ties at Gainsight - Paul shared how he met Nils.


2:37 - Importance of difficult conversations - How can difficult conversations lead to growth and realization?


4:00 - Listening and asking questions - Not having the answers is far more valuable than having the answers.


7:36 - Difficult conversations categories - What are some general categories of situations where a difficult conversation was warranted that leaders should be aware of and should be looking at?


9:20 - Emotional side of difficult conversations - Paul shared some advice for someone dealing with fear and hesitation in addressing a behavior they've observed, despite having other pressing matters.


13:06 - Surfacing up the why - The first step that a leader needs to go through in being able to get to the successful outcome that they ultimately want to achieve.


16:36 - Setting up the game plan - Paul shared the importance of outlining a game plan for a successful outcome in difficult conversations.


19:10 - Setting up milestones - How important is it to establish milestones for executing agreed-upon plans in difficult conversations?


24:07 - Learning from adjustments - Paul shared the benefits of being flexible and allowing people to try new things, even if they don't execute the plan perfectly.



Connect with Paul at https://www.linkedin.com/in/successforlife/


Learn more about WebEx Events at https://socio.events/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy. The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Jun 21, 202325:32
How Taking Time Off Can Help You Get Promoted: A Personal Story
Jun 14, 202308:39
The Most Important Fears to Acknowledge and Manage in Your Leadership Career with Beth Ladd

The Most Important Fears to Acknowledge and Manage in Your Leadership Career with Beth Ladd

In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Beth Ladd, VP of Innovation at the American Supply Association about fears that individuals face at different stages of their leadership careers.


Podcast highlights:

0:55 - Human-centered design - Beth explains what human-centered design is and how it is used to solve problems.


3:31 - Early-stage career fear - What are some common fears that individuals in the early stages of their careers often experience?


6:08 - Imposter syndrome throughout career - Beth shares her perspective on this.


10:43 - Fear of change -  Beth talks about this fear that can arise in mid-career.


15:52 - Dealing with cynicism later in career - How cynicism can be detrimental to innovation and growth within a team.


22:43 - Differences in fear between genders - How men and women approach fear differently in their careers.


27:38 - Leadership and giving back - Beth talks about the importance of giving back and how some people never reach a point where they want to offer help to others.


33:33 - Getting to know yourself - Beth shares the importance of getting to know oneself and one's peers, and provides tools and frameworks to help young professionals in this process.



Learn more about American Supply Association at https://www.asa.net/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Jun 07, 202335:10
Overcoming Presentation Anxiety with Nils Vinje

Overcoming Presentation Anxiety with Nils Vinje

I learned a very powerful leadership lesson long before I became a people leader.


It was my senior year in college and I was ready to be done with school and start working in the professional world.


I already had a job lined up that I would start at the end of the summer so things were good.


However, I had to give a presentation in one of my classes that represented a big part of my final grade and that was a challenge.


It was a challenge because I was extremely nervous and anxious about presenting in front of the class.


I had done some presentations as part of projects in other classes but it wasn’t something I was comfortable with.


I was mediocre at best on the outside.


But inside, I was a mess.


In the days and weeks leading up to the presentation, I scripted everything I was going to say and rehearsed it over and over again to get ready.


Despite all my practice, I was still terrified.


When it was my turn to present, there was one mindset shift I made that changed everything and allowed me to feel calm and confident.


Want to know what I did to overcome presentation anxiety?


Tune in to find out.



This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy.


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to ⁠b2bleadersacademy.com⁠ and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

May 31, 202306:51
How Do You Get Promoted To Manager Level?

How Do You Get Promoted To Manager Level?

In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach, Nils Vinje, shares 5 essential steps to prepare for moving from an individual contributor to a manager.


Podcast highlights:

1:39 - The most difficult shift - Why shifting from an IC role to a manager is one of the most difficult shifts?


5:06 - Importance of acquiring skills in advance - How acquiring the skills needed before getting into the next role can set you up for success?


8:25 - Five things to success - Nils shares the skillset that continues to be one of the most powerful and impactful tools in his leadership toolbox.


9:43 - Building relationships - Why is building relationships across the organization important to be recommended for a leadership position?


13:05 - Demonstrating initiative - There's no better way to prove that you are ready for the next role than by doing this.


16:55 - Expanding knowledge - How can this set you apart from others?


20:02 - Seeking feedback - How to ask for it in order to take actionable steps towards improvement.


22:29 - Summary of five things to get promoted to manager - Put these into action and it will help you prepare for your promotion to manager.


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

May 17, 202324:46
How Do You Get Promoted To Vice President Level?

How Do You Get Promoted To Vice President Level?

May 03, 202333:18
4 Common Myths That Every Leader Should Challenge with Don Schmincke

4 Common Myths That Every Leader Should Challenge with Don Schmincke

On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Don Schmincke, Strategic Growth Advisor, Author and Keynote Speaker at Schmincke Research Alliance.


What started with a story about being shot off an aircraft carrier evolved into a discussion about the 4 common myths that every leader should challenge.


Podcast highlights:

0:31 - Being shot off an aircraft carrier - Don explains the backstory behind this wild event.


2:12 - Ineffective leadership strategies - Why is the implementation of leadership strategies from books so low?


6:04 - Leadership myths - Don shares why leadership behaviors often don't change.


10:17 - Sticking with a plan - Don dispels another common leadership myth.


14:33 - Prioritizing problems over plans - Advice for how leaders can shift their thinking on this idea.


18:23 - Being the CEO of your career - Don shares his thoughts on why individuals are responsible for their own success.


22:06 - The myth of happy employees - Why employees should focus on winning more than on happiness.


25:37 - "I don't have enough time" - Don dispels this leadership myth.


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Apr 26, 202327:49
How Elite Leaders Retain Their Best Employees

How Elite Leaders Retain Their Best Employees

Employees leave bosses, not companies!


The hard costs associated with an employee leaving are generally 1.5 - 2X the employee’s salary.


The costs associated with lost time, opportunities, and productivity are much greater.


When it comes down to it, you better be thinking about how to retain your best employees.


On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje explains how leaders can retain their best employees by focusing on four key areas of growth.


Podcast highlights:

0:11 - First job out of undergrad - From excitement to resentment in a couple of months.


4:00 - Gallup poll results - This research measures the cost of psychological detachment.


6:42 - Four key areas of growth - Focus on these areas to keep your employees engaged.


11:52 - Leadership environment - What role does environment play in retaining your best employees?


16:16 - Employee compensation - It's not always the most important thing to focus on, but many people think it is.


20:03 - Employee recognition - Recognize and reward the performance that you want to see more of.


22:30 - A short recap of the four key areas of growth - These engagement strategies will help you retain your best employees.


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Apr 19, 202326:53
Empowering Black Executive Men with Jewel Edward Love, Jr.

Empowering Black Executive Men with Jewel Edward Love, Jr.

“There’s a belief that there aren’t that many black men in senior leadership roles in corporate America… and it’s true!”


That’s how Jewel Edward Love, Jr, Founder and Executive Coach at Black Executive Men started our conversation on this episode of the B2B Leadership Podcast.


From there, we discussed the Three S’s - Salary, Seniority, and Satisfaction…


And that led to a powerful conversation about how to think about the role you play and the impact you have as a leader.


Podcast highlights:

0:23 - Jewel's background - Jewel explains his role at Black Executive Men and the role the company serves.


6:11 - Have you experienced therapy? - Jewel asks Nils for his personal take on the benefits of therapy.


9:20 - Salary, seniority, satisfaction - Jewel takes a deep dive on the 3 S's.


13:04 - Impact and oversight - What are the vast majority of people overlooking?


16:06 - Unlocking your best ability - Jewel explains his process for helping people understand their most valuable skill.


28:22 - Strengthsfinder assessment results -  Jewel shares his feedback on the assessment.


32:59 - Proven system - How does using a framework enable Jewel to help shape his clients?


45:59 - Connect with Jewel - Jewel leaves additional information for listeners to get in touch.


Learn more about Black Executive Men at https://blackexecutivemen.com/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy
The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Apr 12, 202345:10
What Is an Elite Leader?

What Is an Elite Leader?

Have you ever seen the series Seal Team?


You get to see what it’s like inside of one of the most elite teams in the world - the Navy Seals.


The way they prepare, train, think, and operate is on a different level than everyone else.


Even among the Navy Seals, there is Bravo Team who is the elite of the elite. They are the center of the show.


There are many parallels between the Navy Seals and leadership.


What I like to focus on is the element of being an Elite Leader.


On this episode of the B2B Leadership podcast, I lay out a vision for what an Elite Leader is and how to become one.


Podcast highlights:

0:11 - Defining elite - What is the dictionary definition of elite?


3:30 - Parallels between Navy SEALS and leadership -  What do these two verticals have in common?


5:15 - Leading yourself - the first of four pillars of leadership is explained.


9:52 - Aligning with your natural strengths - How do elite leaders create high-performing teams?


12:02 - Leading others - How does an inclusive team identity strengthen a team?


15:34 - Leading with communication - How do you communicate your value and your team's value beyond just the team?


18:23 - Leading with metrics - How measuring specific metrics can drive personal and team performance?


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Apr 05, 202325:32
How Do You Give Effective Feedback?

How Do You Give Effective Feedback?

There is one thing your team wants more than anything else…


And, it doesn’t require any monetary investment…


It’s Feedback!


The reality is that most leaders do not give enough feedback or enough of the right kind of feedback.


My hypothesis on why this happens is that leaders don’t have a reliable system to give their team members the feedback they want and deserve.


On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje discusses common myths about giving feedback as a leader. 


He provides a simple feedback formula for asking the right questions to help your team grow.


Follow these 3 steps, and you will be consistently giving the high-quality actionable feedback your team is craving.


Podcast highlights:


1:19 - The importance of feedback - Just how important is giving feedback?


5:05 - Common misconception about giving feedback - Avoid taking this approach.


10:55 - A three-step feedback made simple - This system will show you exactly how to give the most effective feedback possible.


11:43 - "Here's what I observed..." - Preparation before you give feedback is more important than anything.


14:22 - "Here's the impact that had..." - Most people have no idea what the impact of their actions really are.


16:50 - Negative or corrective feedback - Why is it so important to ask a question during this part of your feedback?


18:58 - A common feedback myth to dispel - Sometimes empty feedback is worse than none at all.


22:19 - Putting the Feedback Makeover into action - Members of the B2B Leaders Academy were blown away by this process.


Get FREE access to the 5-Minute Feedback Makeover at www.b2bleadersacademy.com/feedback

This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Mar 29, 202326:48
Ditch Alcohol and Maximize Your Leadership Potential: Advice from James Swanwick

Ditch Alcohol and Maximize Your Leadership Potential: Advice from James Swanwick

“Alcohol’s reputation is crumbling…”


And I agree!


That quote is from James Swanwick, Founder and CEO of Alcohol-Free Lifestyle, my guest on this episode of the B2B Leadership podcast.


In January, I shared the transformation journey I’ve been on in my relationship with alcohol publicly for the first time.


The response and support blew me away.


I heard so many inspiring stories and received so many messages of appreciation for sharing my story.


Having this conversation with James reinforced every decision I’ve made for the last 15 months regarding alcohol.


Regardless of where you are right now, you’re going to get a lot out of this episode.


Podcast highlights:

0:34 - James' background - James explains his role at Alcohol-Free Lifestyle.


3:57 - Socially acceptable drinking - How can you approach drinking environments differently?


8:32 - The results of eliminating alcohol - James shares his experience of quitting alcohol, along with those of others in his program.


14:27 - Attractively packaged poison - James expands his thoughts on what this means.


18:14 - A history of alcohol - How big a role do family history and genes play in drinking alcohol?


24:14 - Making the change - James outlines the incredible changes you can see by quitting alcohol for just 90 days.


35:07 - The Alcohol-Free Lifestyle Program - Learn more and connect with James.


Download a FREE Step-By-Step Guide To Get Power Over Alcohol In 30 Days Or Less!

This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

Mar 22, 202336:11
How Do You Get Promoted to Director Level?

How Do You Get Promoted to Director Level?

When you get promoted from manager to Director level, the game changes…


You are now going to be responsible for the performance of multiple teams…


And, you will also be managing managers as well…


How do you get yourself ready for this promotion?


How do you end up as the #1 choice for Director when the time comes in your company…


Or, how do you positing yourself as the best possible candidate while interviewing?


On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje discusses the roadmap you can follow in order to get promoted from a manager-level to a director-level position.


Podcast highlights:

0:42 - Previous podcast story - This previous episode of the podcast provides a great example of how to get promoted to a director position.


2:09 - Using a roadmap - The easiest way to identify the skills you need to grow.


4:24 - The four pillars - This framework is the backbone of the B2B Leaders Academy.


5:28 - Leading yourself - The more you grow, the more stress you will take on.


9:37 - Leading others - How do you engage and interact with your team?


13:35 - Managing managers - How does managing managers differ from managing individual contributors?


16:13 - Leading with communication - How do you communicate your team's value outside your immediate team?


20:36 - Leading with metrics - As you grow, the importance of metrics starts to increase.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Mar 15, 202328:51
How Leaders Can Nurture Motivation with Patrick Mirza

How Leaders Can Nurture Motivation with Patrick Mirza

In a leadership position, what you say matters…


Not just some of the time, all of the time.


One statement can have the power to completely change someone’s day, week, month, year, or career.


It is for this reason that any leadership position needs to be treated with the highest level of respect.


On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Patrick Mirza, Director of Content Marketing and Publications at WorldatWork.


Patrick was on the receiving end of one statement that left him feeling discouraged and hollow.


This conversation opened up a discussion about the importance of giving effective feedback.


Podcast highlights:

0:16 - Patrick's background - Patrick explains his role at WorldatWork.


1:28 - Inclusive leadership - How does this play a role in receiving benefits at work?


4:25 - First leadership position - Patrick’s first job out of college.


5:28 - Managing freelancers - What challenges did Patrick face while he was managing freelancers?


7:33 - In-house and freelancer overlap - How did Patrick's management with freelancers differ from managing a salaried team?


10:48 - Shielding freelancers from management - How was Patrick able to manage pressure from management?


17:21 - Freelancer vs. employee - How has Patrick's leadership evolved after these different experiences?


19:35 - You don't own the company - Patrick explains how one phrase from management discouraged him.


27:05 - Feedback using facts, not emotion - Patrick shares his thoughts on this philosophy.


34:00 - Patrick's advice to himself - What advice would Patrick give his younger self?


Learn more about WorldatWork at https://worldatwork.org/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.b2bleadersacademy.com/


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader

This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Mar 08, 202336:26
How Do You Get Promoted?

How Do You Get Promoted?

For nearly the first 10 years of my professional career, I was not promoted…


I did an average job and received an average amount of recognition for my contributions.


In every role, I waited for my boss and my company to tell me what to do…


I thought I was doing the right thing…


Then, everything changed…


When I invested in myself and began to deliver more value to my organizations, I understood what a promotion really means.


From that point on, earning promotions was the result of applying a specific formula.


This formula allowed me to go from an individual contributor to a Vice President in 30 months!


This formula is something I have shared with my private coaching clients and members of the B2B Leaders Academy.


In this episode of the B2B Leadership Podcast, I’m going to share my formula with you.


This episode is full of behind-the-scenes tips, tricks and strategies to help you land your next promotion.


Podcast highlights:

0:39 - Defining a promotion - What is the clearest, simplest definition of a promotion?


1:09 - Promoted while taking time off - Does this sound counterintuitive? Listen to the story for context.


8:04 - Transitioning from IC to manager - What series of events led to receiving a promotion?


12:27 - Adding additional value over time - When thinking about promotions, how much value are you adding?


17:20 - Being the CEO of your career - What steps can you take to take control of your own career?


22:01 - Your promotion plan blueprint - This set of tactics is designed to aid your leadership progress


27:04 - The Return on Leadership Skills - How much are you willing to invest now to set up your future?


33:58 - Putting the control in your hands - You are the single source for where you're going to go in your career.


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Mar 01, 202339:06
Building a System of Success for Future Leaders with Simon Cundall

Building a System of Success for Future Leaders with Simon Cundall

How do you transition from a completely non-technical field to a successful leader inside a SaaS business?


That’s what best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje sat down with Simon Cundall, Head of Customer Experience at CampMinder to find out.


Discover the pivotal moments in Simon’s career as he reveals his path to leadership in an industry he loves.


Podcast highlights:

0:19 - Simon's background - Simon explains his role at CampMinder.


1:18 - Summer camp software - How summer camps have evolved with the use of software?


6:27 - First leadership position - How Simon fell into sports leadership.


8:33 - Navigating unfamiliar territory - How Simon managed his new camp counselor position?


13:17 - From the camp world to the tech world - Simon explains how he made the transition.


19:03 - The organization's vision - Was Simon's path to leadership intentional or suggested by another leader?


21:35 - Integrating systems - Simon's approach to integrating systems.


26:55 - Repeatable processes - Advice for leaders who need to create processes in their companies.


31:31 - Evolving customer success roles - How has Simon's approach to leadership shifted?


37:03 - Simon's advice to himself - Advice that Simon would give to his younger self.


Learn more about CampMinder at https://campminder.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.b2bleadersacademy.com/


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Feb 22, 202338:52
How Do You Choose a Leadership Coach?

How Do You Choose a Leadership Coach?

On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje discusses how to choose a leadership coach and why you would hire a leadership coach in the first place.


Podcast highlights:

0:55 - Speeding up success - The mindset that goes into why you would hire a coach.


2:19 - The stigma around coaching - Why do people only think coaching is for executives?


4:45 - What exactly is leadership coaching? - The term “coaching” has been twisted in a lot of different ways.


8:44 - What leadership coaching isn't - What ideas should NOT be used to define leadership coaching?


11:17 - Coaching qualifications - What are the criteria for a qualified leadership coach?


13:22 - Coaching reputation - Does your coach have a good reputation?


21:53 - Going through the process of coaching - Has your coach been through a coaching program themselves?


26:01 - Four pillars of leadership - What four pillars do you need to master to become an elite leader?


29:22 - Types of leadership coaching programs - What types of programs are available?


36:31 - Live workshops - How does this intimate setting impact the coaching experience?


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Feb 15, 202343:18
 How Leaders Can Create New Opportunities for Others with Sam Gurdus

How Leaders Can Create New Opportunities for Others with Sam Gurdus

A leader’s job is to do everything possible to make sure the people that work for them are successful.


Success means different things to different people…


And success might come in their current role, another role in the same company, or another role in a completely different company.


Taking this approach builds a lot of trust.


But, not every leader thinks or operates this way.


In my opinion, this is one of the best strategies to build trust and a long-term relationship.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Sam Gurdus, Senior Director of Customer Success at Mezmo about creating new opportunities for others.


To find out how to do it, tune in to this episode.


Podcast highlights:

0:19 - Sam's background - Sam explains his role at Mezmo.


3:29 - Amazing success story - Sam talks about joining an organization that exited at $3.2 billion.


8:52 - First leadership position - Sam began his journey as an individual contributor.


11:14 - The advertising space - Did Sam have an innate passion for this space or was it just a requirement of his role?


16:39 - Empowering your team - What would Sam do with people who weren't quite ready to grow yet?


20:57 - Setting up checkpoints - When should you check in with your team to make sure you're still aligned on the same goals?


27:40 - Being the CEO of your own career - What does Sam think about this philosophy?


35:35 - Sam's advice to himself - What advice would Sam give his younger self?


Learn more about Mezmo at https://www.mezmo.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.B2BLeadersAcademy.com/


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Feb 08, 202339:20
Aligning Your Leadership Aspirations With the Right Organization with Melissa Benua

Aligning Your Leadership Aspirations With the Right Organization with Melissa Benua

What you say as a leader may not be what is received by the person you are speaking to.


Sometimes, things said with good intentions can have negative consequences.


This is why communication skills and emotional intelligence need to be at the top of every leader’s list.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Melissa Benua, Senior Director of Engineering at mParticle.


Melissa went through a conversation with her boss early in her career that demotivated her despite the fact that what her boss said was intended as a compliment.


There are always two sides to every conversation and if you are a leader who only thinks about your side, you’re going to run into trouble.


Tune in to this episode to find out how Melissa overcame this challenge with her manager and went on to become an amazing leader.


Podcast highlights:

0:19 - Melissa's background - Melissa explains her role at mParticle.


1:17 - Solving specific problems - What does mParticle do better than anyone else?


2:44 - First leadership position - Melissa got her start at Microsoft.


6:17 - Sticking with your values - How did Melissa respond to demoralizing feedback from management?


9:43 - Company No. 2 - How did Melissa's leadership journey progress with a new company?


12:37 - Lack of alignment - Melissa gives an example of how her leadership ideas didn't match with the company she worked within.


17:19 - Reflecting on past experiences - Is there anything Melissa would have done differently in her previous roles?


21:44 - Working for mParticle - What was her first impression of joining mParticle compared to her previous companies?


27:34 - Setting expectations early on - How did setting early expectations positively impact Melissa's role within mParticle?


30:06 - Staying aligned with expectations - How was Melissa able to stay on the same page as her organization after returning from maternity leave?


34:56 - Melissa's advice to herself - What advice would Melissa give her younger self?


Learn more about mParticle at https://www.mparticle.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.B2BLeadersAcademy.com/


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Feb 01, 202337:42
How To Tune Your Voice As a Leader with John Henny

How To Tune Your Voice As a Leader with John Henny

One of your greatest leadership secrets has been with you for your entire life.


It was celebrated when you first started to use it and then it just became “normal”...


It is something you use each and every single day, but you probably don’t think about it very much…


It is your VOICE!


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with John Henny about how leaders can tap into the incredible potential they have in their voice.


John is an all-star vocal coach and has experience working with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars.


Tune in to this episode to discover an entirely new side to your voice and how big of an impact your voice has in leadership.


Podcast highlights:

1:59 - Tuning and using your voice - What role does your voice play in leadership and communication?


5:06 - Engaging tone of voice - What is it that makes pitch and range more engaging to listeners?


7:02 - Speaking with intention - John explains the different types of intentions and why intention is important.


9:17 - How to approach intention - Should intention be thought of as a whole or in segments?


14:28 - A voice with no tone - What are the ramifications of not paying attention to your voice?


16:24 - Vocal health awareness - Why is it that only a small percentage of the population understands tonality?


17:59 - Taking better care of your voice - John shares the common pitfalls of losing your voice.


22:57 - A healthy balance - How to balance taking care of your voice and having fun, without going overboard?


24:20 - A mature voice - What role does age play in your voice?


28:53 - Vocal coaching in groups - John details what it's like to get involved with a company or organization.


32:37 - Working with John - How to get in touch.


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.B2BLeadersAcademy.com/


#Leadership #B2BLeadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Jan 25, 202333:45
Using the Truth To Inspire Trust in Leadership with Mark Stouse

Using the Truth To Inspire Trust in Leadership with Mark Stouse

Confidence and trust are at the heart of great leadership.


These two elements build great relationships with employees, employers, customers, partners, etc. whether the relationship is personal or professional in nature.


While we see countless examples in the media where confidence and trust have been broken, there is always an opportunity to do the right thing and lead in a way that builds confidence and trust.


In this episode of the B2B Leadership podcast, I spoke with Mark Stouse, Chairman and CEO at Proof Analytics.


Mark has experienced the world that is possible when confidence and trust are at the center and when they are not (you have to hear the backstory on this).


He and his team at Proof Analytics are champions of the truth with their clients, employees, and partners.


The level of trust built has earned them incredible customer renewal and expansion rates.


Podcast highlights:

0:20 - Mark's background - Mark explains his role at Proof Analytics.


1:39 - Proof Analytics’ target audience - Mark explains the type of marketing organizations he works with.


3:58 - First leadership position - Mark considers his journey to be a very long and winding road.


7:05 - Good and bad leadership - What has Mark learned from experiencing varying qualities of leadership?


13:50 Exiting politics and finding a new role - Mark had an epiphany and decided he wanted a career change.


17:23 - Proof Analytics’ culture - What kind of people did Mark want to surround himself with?


22:07 - Managing customer and team expectations - As a CEO, how does Mark toe the line of keeping both sides happy?


30:36 - Actions speak louder than words - Mark asks potential customers specific questions before working with them.


39:48 - Mark's advice to himself - What advice would Mark give his younger self?


Learn more about Proof Analytics at https://www.proofanalytics.ai/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.b2bleadersacademy.com/


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Jan 18, 202347:42
How Leaders Can Manage Expectations and Relationships with Francois Dellea

How Leaders Can Manage Expectations and Relationships with Francois Dellea

Have you ever wondered why people don’t meet your expectations?


Maybe the reason is that you didn’t set the expectation properly or maybe the other person didn’t know it existed at all!


Expectations are misset all the time and it causes real frustration and trouble for leaders and their teams.


On this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Francois Dellea, Senior Director of Engineering at Archipelago, about managing expectations and relationships as a leader.


Podcast highlights:

0:21 - Francois's background - Francois explains his role at Archipelago


3:52 - First leadership position - Francois's first leadership role happened by mistake.


5:00 - Shifting into leadership - What had to change for Francois to adjust to his leadership role?


8:16 - From IC to leader - What tools did Francois need to take on a new leadership role?


12:28 - Tailoring leadership to different people - Francois shares advice on how to get more out of team conversations.


18:17 - Managing expectations down the chain - How would Francois approach this kind of communication?


25:09 - Keeping everyone on the same page - How does Francois set and agree on expectations with his team?


30:42 - Francois's advice to himself - What advice would Francois give his younger self?


Connect with Francois Dellea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francois-dellea/


Learn more about Archipelago at https://www.onarchipelago.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader

Jan 11, 202332:35
From Skeptic to Thriving Success Story - A B2B Leaders Academy Case Study with Jake Jorgovan

From Skeptic to Thriving Success Story - A B2B Leaders Academy Case Study with Jake Jorgovan

Jake Jorgovan, Founder and CEO of Content Allies faced a big challenge when it came to developing leaders in his organization.


He bought them books, gave them tips, spent time with them during 1:1s covering leadership topics. It was draining and not the highest and best use of their time together.


Jake knew something had to change but was skeptical about “leadership coaching” programs based on his past experiences.


He enrolled 4 team members into the B2B Leaders Academy and within a few short months those 4 people were all promoted!


On top of that awesome achievement, Jake was able to save time every week because he knew his leaders were getting the very best when it comes to leadership development.


Now when Jake meets with his team, the time spent is significantly more productive as the conversations are now at a strategic level.


Jake’s leaders are building incredible leadership skills through the B2B Leaders Academy every month and this opens up a whole new set of topics to discuss with them that were never possible before.


Jake recognized that he did not have to be the one to do everything and that’s when he went from a skeptic to a thriving success story with the B2B Leaders Academy.


Podcast highlights:

0:29 - Jake's background - Jake explains his role at Content Allies.


1:55 Firsthand leadership experience - What problem is Jake looking to solve when it comes to leadership?


4:16 - Supporting growth with leadership - How did Jake leverage leadership resources like B2B Leaders Academy to scale?


5:54 - Addressing skepticism - why was Jake initially skeptical about joining the B2B Leaders Academy?


8:33 - "I don't have time for this" - How did Jake find the time to implement leadership coaching?


12:08 - Turnkey leadership process - How has B2B Leaders Academy helped Jake focus on other tasks?


14:29 - Proven results - How does Jake feel about his previous skepticism around leadership development?


17:38 - Overall business improvement - Jake explains how the A players on his team have really stepped up as leaders.


23:27 - Following the system for results - How does Jake feel about team members leveling up without his involvement?


28:33 - Advice for other CEOs - Jake shares advice for other CEOs who might also have some early skepticism about coaching programs.


Learn more about Content Allies at https://contentallies.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.B2BLeadersAcademy.com


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Jan 04, 202336:22
What the Mindset of Experimentation as a Leader Looks Like with Can Ozdoruk

What the Mindset of Experimentation as a Leader Looks Like with Can Ozdoruk

What’s the point of A/B testing your leadership?


The point is to get valuable data to inform decisions that will help you improve.


This is the same thing that expert marketers do to bring awareness of a product to a target audience.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Can Ozdoruk, VP of Marketing at Netomi.


Can has an incredible ability to break down the complex world of OKRs into simple steps that have allowed him and his team to consistently hit 90% of their targets every quarter.


Want to know how he does it?


Tune in to find out.


Podcast highlights:

0:21 - Can's background - Can explains his role at Netomi.


6:50 - First leadership position - Can got his leadership start in engineering.


8:39 - Managing a team for the first time - How did Can navigate the transition from going to individual contributor to being responsible for a team?


10:20 - The engineering world vs the marketing world - Can explains the parallels between the two industries.


12:26 - Explaining OKRs - How long has Can made OKRs a success inside his organization?


20:05 - Consistent OKR goals- How does Can make sure that OKRs become part of the fabric of the team?


23:41 - Managing team coordination - How does Can stay close to the team members who are several layers removed from him?


30:13 - Can's advice to himself - What advice would Can give his younger self?


Learn more about Netomi at https://www.netomi.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Dec 14, 202234:15
Accelerating Your Leadership Career Through Coaching with Sarah E. Brown

Accelerating Your Leadership Career Through Coaching with Sarah E. Brown

A lot of people get into leadership roles by accident.


Someone excels as an individual contributor and then is offered the opportunity to lead the team.


What happens when the star performer takes over the team?


It can be an incredible move and produce amazing results.


Or, it can end in failure with relationships destroyed.


What’s the difference between these two outcomes?


The difference comes down to leadership skills.


Leadership skills are not something you are born with, despite what some may think.


They are skills that are learned and developed over time.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Sarah E. Brown, Vice President of Marketing at Sastrify and author of Lead Upwards about leadership roles, coaching, ownership, and much, much, more.


Podcast highlights:

0:20 - Sarah's background - Sarah explains her role at Sastrify.


2:50 - “Lead Upwards” - Who is Sarah's book for?


4:25 - Sarah's first executive role - What inspired Sarah to hire an executive coach?


8:18 - Fast tracking your leadership development - Sarah shares advice on how to accelerate your leadership career.


18:06 - Expanding access to leadership training - Sarah unpacks how organizations can benefit from giving leadership training to more individual contributors.


22:24 - Putting people first - Most organizations champion people first but don't actually invest in them. Sarah shares her thoughts on that.


24:54 - Investing in your own leadership skills - How much of investing is on you versus your organization?


31:23 - Taking control of your life - How big of a role does the mindset of being the CEO of your career really play?


Learn more about Sastrify at https://www.sastrify.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Dec 07, 202247:60
Using Previous Roles To Amplify Your Leadership with Austen Asadorian

Using Previous Roles To Amplify Your Leadership with Austen Asadorian

If you were to leave your position as a leader tomorrow, what would happen?


Would everything continue running as normal because you built repeatable systems that are designed to run without you?


Or would everything fall apart because the systems you have in place rely on you running them?


This is a really important area where I spend a lot of time working with leaders in the B2B Leaders Academy.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Austen Asadorian, Senior Vice President of Sales at SevenRooms.


Before getting into the tech world, Austen ran restaurants for the Hillstone group and learned the incredible power of systems that can run without you.


Tune in to this episode to get all the juicy details.


Podcast highlights:


0:41 - Austen's background - Austen explains his role at SevenRooms.


1:24 - Guest management software - How is SevenRooms different from a generic reservation system?


5:46 - First leadership position - Austen got his start in the restaurant industry.


8:25 - Battlefield promotion - How did Austen transition into managing a restaurant?


11:18 - Balancing criticism - How does Austen approach positive and negative feedback?


15:02 - From restaurant manager to the tech world - Austen explains how he got his foot in the door on the tech side of things.


20:35 - The restaurant/showroom commonalities - What are the parallels between running a restaurant and running a showroom?


24:22 - Working yourself out of your own job - Austen gives his response to the statement made by Nils.


27:09 - Finding the gaps - How does Austen feel about actively seeking challenges?


29:33 - The tough decision to move on - Austen left Peloton before it became a household name.


36:16 - Austen's advice to himself - What advice would Austen give his younger self?


Learn more about SevenRooms at https://sevenrooms.com/en/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy

The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.

Nov 30, 202240:18
Using Genuine Curiosity To Go the Extra Mile as a Leader with Anu Shukla

Using Genuine Curiosity To Go the Extra Mile as a Leader with Anu Shukla

Doing the work as a leader is not enough!!


You must market your leadership.


You must tell the story of you, your team, and your accomplishments.


If you don’t, nobody will truly know what you do.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Anu Shukla, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman at Botco.ai.


We discussed how leaders need to market themselves to be heard, seen, and recognized.


Anu has been recognized as one of the top B2B Marketers in the world.


Buckle up and get your notepad ready for this episode!


Podcast highlights:


0:24 - Anu's background - Anu explains her role at Botco.ai.


1:14 - The speed of marketing - How does this idea play into Botco.ai's automation?


7:18 - First leadership position - Anu got her start in leadership after graduating with an MBA in Ohio then immediately heading over to California.


11:49 - Navigating gray areas - How Anu learned skills that weren't a part of her background.


14:33 - Making yourself available - Anu tells a story about when she went back to Ohio.


19:14 - Anu's startup advice - Anu shares the most impactful stories and advice for individuals who are early in their journey.


26:30 - Sharing your story and results - Anu shares advice for how leaders can share their stories without feeling like they're bragging.


30:24 - Anu's advice to herself - What advice would Anu give her younger self?


Learn more about Botco.ai at https://botco.ai/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.B2BLeadersAcademy.com/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader

Nov 16, 202235:58
Why Prioritizing People Over Products Scales Organizations with Luke Hansen

Why Prioritizing People Over Products Scales Organizations with Luke Hansen

You will fail, but quitting is a decision…


This is a really important distinction that my guest, Luke Hansen, Founder & CEO of CompanyCam, made during this episode of the B2B Leadership Podcast.


When everyone else looks like they have everything perfectly put together, where does your focus as a leader need to be?


Tune in to find out!


Podcast highlights:


0:21 - Luke's background - Luke explains his role at CompanyCam.


6:04 - The possibility of building a product - How did Luke's responsibilities change after he raised $30 million?


10:58 - People over products - Was there a pivotal moment when Luke realized companies were more about people than products?


14:13 - Failure vs quitting - Luke highlights the distinctions between failure and quitting.


22:36 - Empowering people inside the organization - How does Luke inspire his team to carry on the work he's passionate about?


31:31 - Most important assets - Luke explains what the foundation of good leadership includes.


34:44 - Luke's advice to himself - What advice would Luke give his younger self?


Learn more about CompanyCam at https://companycam.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader

Nov 09, 202237:53
The Engineer's Route to Leadership with Jerome Placido

The Engineer's Route to Leadership with Jerome Placido

If you are a leader and you are the center of your team, you’re doing it wrong.


Many leaders think that this is the right place to be, after all I am the “leader” right?


The simple answer is no.


If it’s your team, your ideas, your direction, it’s a “you” show.


In this episode, best-selling author and leadership coach Nils Vinje speaks with Jerome Placido, Sr. Director of Engineering at Coursedog about how to take the emphasis off of you and put in on your team.


When you get this strategy right, the whole team dynamic changes.


Podcast highlights:


0:19 - Jerome's background - Jerome explains his role at Coursedog.


2:07 - First leadership position - Jerome wasn't looking for leadership when the opportunity presented itself.


3:55 - Shifting career gears - What was Jerome's experience like pivoting his focus towards being a manager?


6:14 - Navigating the shift - How did Jerome navigate the transition from an engineer to a people leader?


8:44 - Managing your former peers - What advice would Jerome give to individuals who have to evolve relationships with the peers they now manage?


12:28 - Building Team Awesome - How does Jerome make his work environment a team effort that isn't about him?


15:18 - Engineer culture - Jerome explains how typical engineers work and how to include them in company culture.


17:45 - Measuring ROI - How does Jerome quantify ROI for tasks that aren't necessarily quantified?


22:25 - Creating an efficient team - Jerome explains why an organization should never rely on a leader to function.


28:16 - Color coding your calendar - How can you keep yourself up to date with company updates without filling up your entire calendar?


31:49 - Jerome's advice to himself - What advice would Jerome give his younger self?


Connect with Jerome Placido: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-placido/


Learn more about Coursedog at https://www.coursedog.com/


Learn more about your own leadership style at:

https://www.30dayleadership.com/


This episode is brought to you by the B2B Leaders Academy


The cost of not consistently developing your leadership skills is enormous. At the B2B Leaders Academy, you can gain access to monthly leadership training and live coaching. Being a great leader isn't hard, you just need a guide and the right set of tools. Head on over to b2bleadersacademy.com and become the leader you have always wanted to be.


#Leadership #B2bleadership #BusinessLeader

Nov 02, 202234:28