SummaryI almost quit my MBA and faced my biggest fears. In this video, I am sharing 7 critical business lessons. I learned these from my biggest failures and how to use them to "fail forward" into owning your career. We often talk about success, but real growth happens in the setbacks. I break down the insights about fear, speed, and the difference between moral and toxic shame.Follow Paul Leon by clicking hereChapters00:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Education06:36 Confronting Fear and Emotional Challenges15:08 Navigating Shame and Personal Growth24:46 Understanding Shame vs. Guidance32:54 Celebrating Everyday HeroesTakeaways54% leave college because of emotional stress.Overcoming fear is crucial for personal growth.Speed in business can outweigh free options.On the other side of fear is a better version of you.Creating core memories is invaluable.Bitterness harms the one who holds it.Focus on what truly matters to avoid scattering efforts.Shame can be a tool for growth if understood correctly.Real heroes are often unseen in everyday life.Progress is more important than perfection.

Ever wonder why your salary feels like a mystery? The "black box" of compensation is finally opening up. In this episode, Scott Trumpolt—compensation consulting expert—reveals the pay transparency secrets HR departments do not openly discuss. We break down why compensation has been so secretive, how younger generations are demanding change, and what you need to know to take control of your career growth.✅ Why compensation has been treated as "hush hush."✅ The shift toward pay transparency and what it means for you.✅ How to link your pay to career development (the key to retention). ✅ Coaching strategies for managers having tough pay conversations. ✅ Real-world example: How one manager's pay issue revealed systemic problems. ✅ The employee's role: Active listening and career ownership. ✅ How mentorship can transform your professional trajectory. Whether you're feeling underpaid, stuck in your career, or managing a team navigating compensation discussions, this conversation will change how you approach pay and career development.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Compensation Consulting01:44 Understanding Black Box Compensation05:38 The Importance of Pay Transparency07:47 Real-World Example of Pay Issues11:33 Coaching Managers for Effective Pay Conversations17:20 Scott's Journey to Consulting21:12 Insights from The Defragmented Consultant Book26:05 Bridging the Gap: HR and Management Collaboration30:46 Empowering Employees: The Role of Active Listening35:23 Spotting Potential: Mentorship and Career Growth39:27 Success Stories: Transformative Client Experiences43:23 Final Thoughts: Empowerment and Transparency👤 ABOUT SCOTT TRUMPOLTScott is a compensation consulting expert specializing in pay transparency, employee engagement, and HR strategies. His work focuses on transforming "black box compensation" into clear, development-linked frameworks that drive retention and manager effectiveness.FOLLOW SCOTT TRUMPOLTBook an Appointment | Book | Website |

When you do a master's in business administration, nobody tells you about the real challenges. I went from college dropout to impacting $100M+ in revenue, then decided to get my MBA. Here's what 75% of the program actually taught me about why you should (or shouldn't) get an MBA, and whether it really matters for your career. Does an MBA matter when you already have real-world wins? In this video, I break down the unfiltered MBA experience: balancing family responsibilities, finding mentors who transform your trajectory, and why spirituality became my competitive advantage. You technically have the biggest boss upstairs guiding business decisions.Follow Paul LeonFree Gift (Click Here) | LinkedIn | YouTubeTakeawaysPursuing an MBA requires balancing multiple responsibilities.Family support is crucial during educational pursuits.Mentorship can significantly impact professional growth.Spirituality can guide decision-making in business.Having a strong support system is essential for success.Education is not just about academics but also personal growth.Networking plays a vital role in business education.Time management is key for MBA students.Real-world experience complements academic learning.The journey of an MBA is transformative.

In this conversation, Paul Leon discusses the challenges of servant leadership and presents a structured 90-day plan for team management that emphasizes the importance of setting goals, monitoring progress, and continuously reassessing strategies to improve team performance. Paul shares personal experiences and practical tips for enhancing communication and closing sales effectively, ultimately advocating for a psychologically stronger workplace.Chapters00:00 Introduction 00:27 Phase 104:33 Phase 206:06 Phase 307:47 Personal Example That WorkedFree Gift

Can comedy make you a better sales professional? On The Manager’s Mic, Paul Leon interviews comedian and entrepreneur Kevin Hubschmann (Laugh.Events) on how improv and stand-up techniques sharpen sales listening, discovery calls, objection handling, and concise messaging, thereby raising close rates in both virtual and in-person meetings. Learn practical moves for sales reps and managers. Follow Kevin HubschmannWebsite | Newsletter | LinkedInTakeaways​Comedy can enhance sales skills and effectiveness.​Listening is crucial for successful sales interactions.​Using humor can create a connection with clients.​Improv training helps develop adaptability and presence.​Pausing during conversations can create engagement.​Building rapport is essential in sales calls.​Mentorship plays a vital role in professional growth.​Failure in comedy can lead to valuable lessons.​Visual aids can enhance virtual presentations.​Laughter can improve workplace morale and productivity.Sound Bites"Pausing is a choice.""Comedy allows me to give back.""Laughter is the best medicine."Chapters00:00 Intro 02:07 Why comedy skills matter in sales06:19 How improv helps discovery and listening08:53 Rapport17:46 Compounding wins21:18 Tighter pitches23:12 Mentors and modeling excellence26:43 Virtual comedy & the power of…29:39 How to hold attention virtually 32:03 Best bombing story (and lesson)38:57 How to work with Laugh.EventsFree Gift From Paul Leon

In this conversation, I share five essential lessons for navigating toxic work environments, emphasizing the importance of recognizing toxic behavior, documenting interactions, avoiding gossip, and seeking professional support. I also emphasize the importance of what a good win looks like, regardless of the workplace.TakeawaysYou want to avoid feeding the toxic person.Words like always and never are harmful in communication.Documenting interactions can protect you in toxic situations.Avoid gossip; it can lead to traps.Share your struggles with a therapist, not coworkers.Personal bias plays a significant role in workplace dynamics.Self-absorbed behavior can create toxic environments.Personal wins are more important than professional success.Practice and connection can transform personal relationships.Therapy can provide essential support in difficult times.Sound Bites"Don't feed the toxic person.""Avoid words like always and never.""Avoid gossip; it can trap you."Chapters00:00 Hi, I'm Paul!00:23 Lesson 103:17 Lesson 205:31 Lesson 308:07 Lesson 410:01 Lesson 5⁠Free Gift

In this conversation, Diana Fritz shares her inspiring journey of resilience through adversity, particularly her battle with cancer. She discusses the importance of mindset, the lessons learned in parenting, and how to create a culture of justified complaints in the workplace. Diana emphasizes the significance of gratitude and the impact of relationships, both personal and professional, in navigating life's challenges. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of choosing one's response to adversity.Follow Diana FrtizBook | Website | LinkedInTakeawaysResilience is about how we respond to adversity.Choosing a positive mindset can change outcomes.Letting people help is a sign of strength.Gratitude plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges.Creating a culture of justified complaints fosters growth.Parenting through adversity teaches valuable lessons.Relationships can provide essential support during tough times.Mental health awareness is increasingly important for youth.Finding love can start with friendship, especially during tough times.Every moment is an opportunity to make a positive impact.Sound Bites"You get to choose your response.""I learned how to let people help me.""Gratitude is also very important."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Personal Journey05:08 Facing Adversity: The Cancer Diagnosis10:32 Lessons in Parenting and Resilience15:59 The Importance of Mindset and Perspective21:26 Creating a Culture of Justified Complaints27:03 Navigating Relationships and Finding Love32:23 Defining Resilience and Moving Forward37:40 Current Victories and Future Aspirations⁠Free Gift

Welcome to The Manager’s Mic, hosted by Paul Leon, a corporate trainer, MBA candidate, and selling strategist. I was a former college dropout who has now trained over 2,000 professionals, which has led to influencing $100M in revenue.This podcast will train you to become a manager who creates rapport in the workplace. Gain real-world leadership insights, communication skill strategies, and lessons from the trenches to improve your management style. Follow Paul Leon: Newsletter | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Free GiftSummaryIn this episode of the Managers Mic podcast, host Paul Leon speaks with executive coach Ken Sher about his extensive career in sales and leadership, the importance of trust in building relationships, and the lessons learned from his time at Johnson & Johnson. They discuss the challenges of career advancement, the impact of layoffs, and the role of loyalty in the workplace. Ken shares insights from his book, 'What's Trust Got to Do With It?', and emphasizes the need for transparency and understanding in leadership. The conversation concludes with reflections on success and the importance of helping others achieve their goals.Follow Ken SherBook | Website | LinkedIn | YouTube Sound Bites"Loyalty only goes so far.""It's all about trust.""I love helping people."TakeawaysTrust is the foundation of great relationships.Loyalty only goes so far in corporate environments.Winning is defined by seeing others succeed.Control what you can control in your career.The importance of transparency in leadership.Building relationships is key to success.Therapy can help in overcoming career challenges.Corporate culture impacts employee loyalty.The trust framework is essential for effective leadership.Helping others is a rewarding aspect of coaching.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ken Sher and His Background02:17 The Trust Model in Leadership05:04 Building Relationships and Trust in Sales07:50 Identifying Leadership Potential10:37 Navigating Career Advancement and Loyalty12:16 Overcoming Layoffs and Building Resilience14:52 Reflections on Corporate Loyalty and Personal Growth

In this episode, Reed Hansen shares his journey to becoming a Chief Growth Officer. Reed's humble journey to where he is now began with working in landscaping alongside his dad. Together, we discussed resilience, people skills, and the significance of authentic content marketing. All while reflecting on the legacy he wishes to leave for his family and the impact he hopes to have on them.Follow Reed HansenEmail | Website | LinkedIn | YouTubeChapters00:00 Who is Reid Hansen?05:04 The Power of Resilience10:00 Navigating Layoffs?13:50 People Skills: Balancing Empathy and Assertiveness18:02 Marketing Trends20:00 Leveraging Automation23:15 Key Insights on Content Marketing25:39 Selling Systems with Content Marketing29:03 A Practical Cadence for Content Marketing32:01 The Final Question⁠Free Gift ⁠

Traditional behavioral assessments feel outdated. In this episode, Wei Houng, co-founder of HumanOp, shares a modern people analytics approach that enhances team fit, reduces workplace toxicity, and boosts performance by respecting individual differences and providing HR/People Ops with real compatibility data to reorganize teams effectively.Follow Wei HoungFree Assessment | Website | LinkedInTakeawaysHuman optimization is about understanding and respecting individual differences.Traditional assessments often pigeonhole individuals, leading to workplace toxicity.HumanOp technology is based on the physical expression of individuals.The journey of human optimization began with personal struggles and a desire to help others.Sales performance can be significantly improved by understanding team dynamics.Alchemic boundaries of tolerance are crucial for successful relationships.Reorganizing teams based on compatibility can enhance productivity.Introversion and extroversion are not binary; individuals can exhibit both traits.Dr. Zana Hackett's work is foundational to the HumanOp technology.Education and workshops are essential for implementing human optimization strategies.Sound Bites"Every human being needs access to this.""We need representation of all three ores.""We need to educate, not just sell."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Human Optimization03:03 The Journey of Wei Houng05:42 Challenges with Traditional Human Behavior Assessments08:37 The Science Behind HumanOp Technology10:28 Personal Experiences and Motivations13:03 The Impact of Human Optimization on Sales Teams21:45 Key Insights for New HR Representatives25:36 Understanding Alchemic Boundaries in Relationships28:19 The Complexity of Introversion and

Daren Fields discusses the transformative impact of AI on the sales process. Sharing insights from his book, The Apex 8 methodology. Daren addresses common hesitations sales managers have with AI. The significance of choosing secure AI tools and the concept of 'dark AI.' He also highlights the importance of prototyping and debriefing in sales processes. Advocating for a culture of continuous learning in the face of technological advancements.Follow Daren FieldsBook | Website | LinkedinTakeawaysAI is revolutionizing sales strategies and processes.Sales managers must embrace AI to stay competitive.Choosing the right AI tools is crucial for security.Prototyping fosters collaboration and trust with clients.Debriefing after sales meetings is essential for learning.Dark AI refers to unauthorized use of AI tools.Conscious competence is necessary for effective prompting.AI can significantly boost productivity in sales teams.Simplification in communication can enhance sales effectiveness.The Apex 8 methodology offers a structured approach to sales.Sound Bites"AI is a hot topic in sales.""Simplification scales sales.""Debriefing is crucial for learning."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Daren Fields and AI in Sales02:37 The Impact of AI on Sales Strategies05:02 Overcoming AI Fears in Sales Management07:42 Choosing the Right AI Tools for Sales10:28 Understanding Dark AI and Its Implications13:27 The Role of Prompt Engineering in Sales16:08 Personal Insights from Racing to Sales Success23:50 The Mastery of Language in AI27:01 Conscious Competence in AI Prompting28:04 Effective Prompting Techniques31:59 The Importance of Prototyping in Sales37:43 Debriefing: Le

In this conversation with Albert Bramante, we explore the challenges of impostor syndrome. Exploring its prevalence across demographics, including high-functioning individuals, and the origins of the inner critic. Reframing limiting beliefs and overcoming self-doubt: We explore the impact of childhood experiences—the biological basis of fear—and the influence of AI on self-perception.Follow Albert Bramant, Ph.DBook | Website | Instagram | Facebook Chapters 0:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome02:33 The Inner Critic and Its Origins05:01 Reframing Limiting Beliefs07:12 The Role of Feedback in Growth09:36 The Biological Basis of Fear12:14 The Impact of Childhood on Self-Perception13:59 Real-Life Applications and Solutions18:55 Empowering Student Participation24:06 Navigating Professional Identity and Imposter Syndrome26:46 The Human Side of Leadership28:13 Gender Dynamics in LeadershipFree Gift⁠

I sit down with Chip Higgins, founder of The Bizzics Way and author of The Bizzics Way: Powering Your Small Business to Maximum Momentum, to explore the transformative power of momentum and leadership in the business world. Discover how Chip's insights will help you turn your side hustle into a thriving one. We delve into the principles of energy, intention, and the physics of business growth, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Whether you are just starting or looking to scale, this conversation provides valuable takeaways to fuel your journey. Tune in and unlock the potential of your side hustle today!Follow Chip HigginsBook | Website | LinkedInChapters00:00 The Moment Most Founders Quit00:15 Why Listen to Chip Higgins? (Bizzics)00:59 The Leadership Lesson Chip Kept02:10 What Nashville Taught Us About Talent03:19 The “Massive” Small Business (Explained)07:36 How Spanx and the iPod Prove the Point10:58 Physics, Not Hype: The Growth Model11:09 A Train You Can’t Stop (Momentum)16:28 The Real Reason Your Business Stalls20:49 Three Numbers to Track Every Week26:56 Talk Better, Grow Faster (Culture)31:40 AI Without the Hype: What to Use Today36:22 A 24/7 Coach? 43:56 If You Remember One Thing, Make It This⁠Download Our Free Asset

In this episode, I have a conversation with Bernardo Mendez, a coach who, for fourteen years, has specialized in helping ambitious women find lasting love. Hundreds of women, from Fortune 100 executives, doctors, lawyers, and small business owners, have praised Bernardo’s process. Together, we discuss concepts such as finding devotional love, vulnerability in relationships, and the challenges women face when dating. Bernardo shares insights on navigating jealousy, raising standards, and the transformative power love provides. The success stories of women who found love after overcoming significant obstacles highlight the importance of self-worth, personal growth, and the fact that love is attainable regardless of where you are in your journey to find it.Follow Bernardo MendezWebsite | YouTube | LinkedInChapters00:00 Meeting Bernardo Mendez02:02 Understanding Devotional Love04:04 The Role of Spirituality in Relationships08:24 Common Challenges for Ambitious Women11:56 The Importance of Vulnerability in Dating16:45 Navigating Jealousy in Relationships24:07 Raising Standards in Relationships28:48 Transformational Success Stories 33:14 The Journey to Find Love41:04 What if it is too late?Free Gift

In this conversation, Rob Gallaher shares his journey from struggling entrepreneur to successful business owner, emphasizing the importance of self-education, reflection tactics, and the power of profit sharing. Rob shares the challenges he faced, defining moments, and key questions he asked himself to maintain focus, which led to a motivated workforce during the process of implementing and proving a profit-sharing model that works. Rob offers insights to business owners and their managers looking to implement effective profit-sharing programs. His story serves as an inspiration for those facing personal and professional struggles, encouraging them to take action and pursue their goals with determination.Follow Rob GallaherFree Tool: 10 Rules of Profit SharingBook | Website | LinkedIn | FacebookChapters00:00 Meet Rob Gallaher02:29 Rob's Journey from Construction to Entrepreneurship05:04 Overcoming Personal Struggles07:44 Daily Self-Reflection and Leadership Questions10:22 The Impact of Rock Bottom on Success12:51 Building a Successful Business Empire15:26 The Concept of Profit Sharing in Business25:24 The Journey of Profit Sharing Implementation28:57 Transforming Business Mindsets through Profit Sharing32:23 The Impact of Profit Sharing on Team Dynamics36:46 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Building Ambition42:19 Creating a Roadmap for Success⁠Free Gift

In this conversation, Paul Leon and Oak McCulloch explore the nuances of leadership, hiring practices, and the importance of character and values in both military and civilian contexts. Oak shares his journey, recent speaking engagements, and insights on effective interviewing techniques. The discussion emphasizes the need for leaders to empower their teams, avoid micromanagement, and build trust through personal connections. Oak also highlights the significance of maintaining creativity in leadership roles and the impact of individual experiences on professional performance.Follow Retired Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Oak McCulloch Book | Website⁠ | LinkedIn Chapters00:00 Welcome Back, Oakland McCulloch02:10 Recent Accomplishments and Speaking Engagements04:05 Key Traits in Candidates08:30 Interview Techniques and Open-Ended Questions11:43 Impressive Candidate Responses14:46 Creating Ideal Team Members14:55 Micromanagement vs Empowerment17:31 The Impact of Technology on Creativity18:07 The Impact of Micromanagement19:23 Empowerment in Leadership24:29 Building Trust Through Familiarity29:58 Fostering Creativity in LeadershipFree Asset⁠5 Habits of Highly Toxic Managers to Avoid

In this episode, I interview Steven Puri, a senior executive with extensive experience in the film industry and technology. We discuss the evolution of remote work, particularly in the film industry, and how it has become a viable option for productivity. Steven emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear vision and culture within remote teams, as well as the significance of creating conditions that allow for deep work. The conversation also touches on the challenges and fears associated with remote work, the role of environment in achieving flow, and the importance of hiring for culture fit. Steven shares insights on mindfulness and intentionality in leadership, concluding with key takeaways for leaders and individual contributors to enhance productivity and engagement in their teams.Follow Steven PuriWebsite | LinkedIn | X Download a FREE Management Tool The Five Habits Of Highly Toxic ManagersChapters00:00 Meet Steven Puri04:08 Advantages and Challenges of Remote Work12:10 Addressing Fears and Responsibilities in Remote Work21:27 Creating Conditions for Deep Work26:12 The Importance of Flow State32:58 Advice for Leaders and Individual Contributors

Unlock proven sales strategies from 40-year sales veteran Glenn Poulos, author of Never Sit in the Lobby: 57 Winning Sales Factors. In this episode of The Manager’s Mic – Power Up People Management, Glenn shares hard-earned lessons from building and selling multiple 8-figure businesses, mastering face-to-face selling, and creating the concept of “greed-based learning” to accelerate product knowledge and close more deals.Follow Glenn PoulosBook⁠ | Website | LinkedInChapters00:00 Introduction – Glenn Poulos Built Multiple 8-Figure Sales Businesses02:28 Core Beliefs Every Successful Salesperson Lives By04:23 Greed-Based Learning: The Fastest Way to Master Any Product06:53 Face-to-Face Selling Secrets That Close High-Value Deals09:40 Winning Sales Presence: How to Command Any Room12:11 Real Success Stories & Lessons from 40 Years in Sales24:53 Post-COVID Sales Strategies That Still Work in 202525:59 Persistence in Sales: Following Up Without Annoying Clients27:59 How to Create Scarcity & Urgency That Makes Customers Act29:28 Customer Persona Secrets: Sell the Way They Want to Buy31:38 Why Empathy Is Your Greatest Sales Closing Tool33:03 Identifying Customer Needs Like a Top 1% Sales Rep35:03 The Art of Losing Fast to Win Bigger Deals36:28 Lessons Learned from the Biggest Sales Mistakes40:00 Taking Bold Sales Steps Without Burning Bridges40:31 Making Impressions That Lead to Repeat Business⁠Free Gift

In this conversation, I interview Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, M.S., LCPC, a licensed clinical professional counselor specializing in Imago Therapy. They discuss the importance of understanding relationship dynamics, the role of commitment, and effective communication skills in maintaining healthy relationships. Shlomo shares insights from his personal journey and professional experience, emphasizing the need for emotional safety and caring behaviors in both individual and workplace relationships. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating different backgrounds and belief systems in relationships, as well as the significance of sensitivity and self-awareness in personal growth.Follow Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin, M.S., LCPC  ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Books⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Shlomo Slatkin03:46 Recognizing the Need for Help07:46 Communication and Reactivity in Relationships12:03 Caring Behaviors and Love Languages15:47 Practical Steps for Couples20:42 Navigating Relationships Across Belief Systems23:59 Guardedness in Couples Therapy30:30 Managing Sensitivity in Relationships33:59 Training for Relationship ProfessionalsFree Gift