Access Your Leadership with Hakim Lakhdar

Send us Fan MailPorpoise Evans is the Miami Office Managing Shareholder at Littler Mendelson, where he leads a team of attorneys and staff while actively practicing labor and employment law. He joins Access Your Leadership for a thoughtful, honest conversation about navigating nonlinear career paths, stepping into leadership before you may even feel ready, and shaping workplace cultures in ways that truly support people.Porpoise shares how he went from a challenging childhood in Louisville, Kentucky, to becoming a collegiate athlete and Ivy League student, to spending years in the Miami film industry before ultimately choosing law school at age 30. He opens up about the mentors who changed the trajectory of his life, the belief his parents instilled in him despite difficult circumstances, and why he now sees leadership as both a privilege and a responsibility.From waiting tables to running a small film-services business to becoming the newest partner (and then office leader) at the world’s largest employment law firm, Porpoise offers a grounded, transparent look at what growth actually looks like. He talks about leading a multigenerational team through an office relocation, why over-communication is one of his core leadership philosophies, and how empathy, listening, and clarity shape the cultures leaders create.What does it mean to influence thousands of employees through the policies you help shape? How do you guide Gen Z attorneys on the value of in-person mentorship? What shifts when you realize leadership is as much about developing others as it is about doing your own work well? Where does self-belief come from when perhaps circumstances in your early life didn’t provide it? And how can you use your lived experiences to become a more compassionate and effective leader today?Porpoise’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t linear, predictable, or polished. It’s shaped by adversity, by mentors who see something in you, by the courage to step into new roles, and by the willingness to grow alongside the people you serve. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating career transitions, or reflecting on your own journey, this episode is full of grounded wisdom about purpose, possibility, and becoming the kind of leader others trust.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Porpoise Evans on LinkedIn.Click here to learn more about the work that Porpoise and his colleagues are doing at Littler Mendelson P.C..Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailSheena Eizmendiz is a mindset coach, facilitator, consultant, and owner of The WellBiz, where she and her team equip founders and executives to elevate effectiveness, build resilient teams, and scale with integrity through executive and personal development programs. She joins Access Your Leadership for a candid, energizing conversation about courage, resilience, and the inside-out work leaders get to do to create sustainable impact…in the boardroom and in their lives.From arriving in the U.S. as a child immigrant from Cuba to launching her first practice at 23 as a newly single mom of two, Sheena shares the hard-won wisdom that comes from “building the plane while flying it.” She reflects on 18 years in private practice (NLP, clinical hypnotherapy, EFT, positive psychology with a focus on trauma and substance abuse), the evolution into corporate consulting, stacking seven DEI certifications during the pandemic, and the vision that took her from a one-room office to a multi-therapist practice with a waitlist. Along the way, she unpacks healthy relationships (with self, business, money, and team), plus the village of coaches, strategists, and masterminds that keep her sharp and grounded.What does courage look like when you act before you have certainty…and resist the urge to control? How do you transform “failure” into data, direction, and momentum? Why do vision and values outperform hustle, and how can leaders work on the business (not just in it) without sacrificing what matters most? What can parenting teach us about empowering (versus micromanaging) teams? How are Millennials and Gen Z reshaping the future of work…and what should today’s leaders learn from them? And which daily practices actually build the resilience, adaptability, and clarity to lead in a world that won’t stop changing? Sheena’s story is a masterclass in choosing impact over fear and designing leadership from the inside out. We have no doubt that you’ll enjoy and gain so much from the conversation! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Sheena Eizmendiz on LinkedIn. If you’d like to learn more about The WellBiz, check them out on their website, LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media platforms. .Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailSirena Dimas is a Mid-Market Employee Health & Benefits Consultant at Marsh McLennan Agency, where she helps fast-growing, multi-state companies navigate evolving compliance and ensure their people actually understand and use the benefits they’re given. She joins Access Your Leadership for a candid, insightful conversation about service-driven leadership, employee education, and the trust required to deliver on what can feel like an “expensive promise” when it matters most.Sirena shares how she went from being a young mom learning the industry from the ground up to becoming a sought-after advisor who meets people where they are…translating complex policies into real-world clarity, and bringing the same coaching mindset she uses in youth soccer to the boardroom. From retail lessons in asking better questions to leading an AYSO chapter, growing up Latina in San Francisco, and choosing integrity and transparency as non-negotiables, Sirena offers a grounded look at what it takes to build confidence, engagement, and cohesion across an entire organization.What does it look like to treat benefits not as paperwork, but as a promise employees can depend on? How do you become an expert not just in policies, but in your client’s people, culture, and context? Why do micro-habits (active listening, pausing before responding, and even a simple smile) change the tone of leadership, especially online? How does “slow is fast, and fast is slow” help teams avoid rework and build lasting trust? And how can gratitude and presence quiet the inner critic so you can lead from what matters most? Sirena’s story is an inspiring reminder that leadership is a privilege and that clarity is kind. Whether you’re building a company, leading a team, or leveling up your self-leadership, this episode is full of practical insights you can use right away.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Sirena Dimas on LinkedIn.Click here to learn more about Marsh McLennan Agency.Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailEric Gros-Dubois is the Principal and Co-Founder of EPGD Business Law, a Miami-based firm that counsels and supports entrepreneurs and businesses through every stage of the business lifecycle. With a team of over 60 professionals, Eric has built a firm rooted in mentorship, empowerment, and a deep commitment to developing the next generation of legal talent.What happens when you invest in people early and trust them to punch above their weight? How do you balance the tension between management and leadership in a fast-growing business? What does it take to let go of micromanagement while still owning responsibility as a leader? How do you build a firm (or any organization)that outlasts you? And why is delegation, when practiced with trust and clarity, one of the most critical skills for leaders at every level?Eric shares candid stories from his own journey…from leaving the security of traditional law firms, to taking the leap into entrepreneurship, to co-founding and scaling one of Miami’s most dynamic business law firms. Alongside Hakim, he explores the nuances of mentorship, growth mindset, and self-awareness, highlighting the powerful distinction between delegating tasks and delegating responsibility, and why leadership is never limited to a job title.This conversation is packed with insights on building culture, empowering others, and leading yourself so you can lead others more effectively. Whether you’re a lawyer, a founder, or simply someone committed to your own growth, you’ll walk away inspired by Eric’s philosophy and practical wisdom.Feedback (We want to hear from you):You can connect with Eric Gros-Dubois on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Eric, his team and EPGD Business Law.Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIsobo Amaso is a Certified Financial Planner and Wealth Advisor at SignatureFD, an Atlanta-based wealth management firm that helps clients design lives of purpose through their “Net Worthwhile” philosophy. He joins Access Your Leadership to share his unique journey from a childhood shaped by constant moves as the son of missionaries, to discovering his vocation in financial planning, and now serving athletes, families, and communities with intentionality, authenticity, and care. What happens when you start shaping the money mindset of young athletes before they turn professional? How does moving from city to city as a child prepare someone to connect with almost anyone, anywhere, as an adult leader? What does it really mean to treat financial advising not just as a career but as a calling? How do leaders ensure that their words and values are backed up by consistent action? And why is discernment (often overlooked) such a critical leadership attribute?Isobo reflects on his upbringing, his discovery of financial planning as both a profession and a vocation, and the lessons he weaves into his work with clients and communities today. He and Hakim explore powerful parallels between financial literacy, leadership, and self-leadership, including how both money and leadership are most effective when guided by clarity, confidence, compassion, and alignment with purpose.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Isobo on LinkedIn, Click here to learn more about Isobo, SignatureFD and their Net Worthwhile.Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailJose Alfonso is the Owner and Managing Partner of Voiceware, an emerging information technology and telecom group specializing in delivering hosted PBX, Microsoft Solutions, and video conferencing services to businesses. He joins Access Your Leadership to share his decades-long journey in technology, from starting out as a programmer to leading a customer-obsessed company that prides itself on resolving 95% of support tickets in under five minutes. With over 35 years of experience, Jose dives into the mindset, leadership philosophy, and future-focused vision that have shaped his career.What happens when you empower your team to think and act like business owners? How does a “customer-centric or “customer-obsessed” approach transform both company culture and client relationships? Why is transparency with clients, especially during challenges, a competitive advantage? And how can self-awareness make leaders more effective at anticipating change, building diverse teams, and earning trust?Jose shares personal and professional milestones from his career, including lessons learned from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, his commitment to listening deeply to both clients and employees, and how humility, respect, and empowerment have been central to his leadership style. You don’t want to miss this leader sharing his love of leading. Enjoy the episode! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Jose Alfonso on LinkedInTo speak to Jose directly, call (305)-503-7782 ext. 155Click here to learn more about Voiceware and their work  Click here to learn more about the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Businesses ProgramDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailPatricia Beitler is the Founder of Velocitas, a Miami-based marketing and PR agency that has spent over 23 years helping clients build brands, create targeted visibility, and grow their businesses through strategic marketing. She joins Access Your Leadership for a candid, insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership evolution, and building a culture that people genuinely want to be part of.Patricia shares how she went from a career in web development and government contracting to following her intuition and taking the leap into business ownership (and why listening to her gut has been one of her greatest leadership tools). From the early days of running every aspect of her agency alone to developing a tight-knit team culture that emphasizes responsiveness, professionalism, and genuine care, Patricia offers a transparent look at what it takes to grow a sustainable business without losing yourself along the way.What does it look like to create a culture that makes employees choose to stay when they have other options? How do you balance moving fast with staying intentional about your values and standards? What role does authenticity play in your reputation as a leader and as a brand?  Why is self-awareness so essential when you’re building something from the ground up? How can you be more selective about who you work with, and why does that make everything better for everyone? Patricia’s story is an inspiring reminder that leadership is as much about self-trust and clarity as it is about business strategy. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an aspiring leader, or simply someone reflecting on what you really want, this episode is full of insights about building a business (and a life) that feels aligned.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Patricia Bitler on LinkedIn and Instagram, Click here to learn more about Velocitas.Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook LakhdarCoaching.I’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone, then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailSteven Herzberg is a Miami real estate attorney, partner at VHL Law, and a town council member for the Town of Miami Lakes. He joins Access Your Leadership to share his compelling journey from early aviation-lover to accomplished attorney and dedicated public servant. From navigating pivotal career decisions in the wake of the 2008 Recession to building a thriving law career grounded in strong client relationships, Steven exemplifies the power of clarity, curiosity, and service-driven leadership.What happens when you realize there’s no “perfect time” to take the leap into something you care about? How do you weigh security against growth when facing a fork in the road? What does it look like to lead with clarity…whether you’re mentoring junior colleagues, serving constituents, or advocating for your community? And how do you stay grounded when the stakes are high and mistakes happen?Steven shares the personal and professional milestones that shaped his path, including years spent cultivating client trust, his early decision to choose experience over salary, and his passion for aviation that still inspires him today. He offers honest reflections on learning from missteps, building a career rooted in relationships, and the importance of telling the truth…even if it feels hard.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Steven Herzberg on LinkedIn or visit VHLLaw.com to learn more about his legal work. To reach Steven about his council service or to schedule a meeting, visit Instagram @CouncilmanHerzberg, where you’ll find links to book time directly.Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out this and previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailJessica Shraybman is the Founder and Managing Partner at Shraybman Law, where she supports entrepreneurs and creatives with business and intellectual property legal counsel. She joins Access Your Leadership for a truly raw, powerful, and deeply reflective conversation about personal transformation, self-leadership, and redefining success on your own terms. Jessica shares how a major business acquisition—and its evolution—catalyzed a total deconstruction of her law firm, her professional identity, and the stories she once held about herself as a leader. From navigating the complex emotions of perceived failure to embracing motherhood, solitude, and starting over, Jessica opens up about the importance of clarity, resilience, and learning to lead herself first. What does it look like to rebuild after everything falls apart?  How do you lead when the person you most need to lead is yourself? What does real courage look like when you're facing uncertainty—and still moving forward? Why is humility one of the most underrated leadership superpowers? How can embracing discomfort and obstacles actually be the path to your next big breakthrough? Jessica’s story is one of transformation, radical self-honesty, and the power of choosing growth over comfort. Whether you’re a founder, a parent, or simply someone at a crossroads, this episode is a moving reminder that real leadership starts within.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Jessica Shraybman on LinkedIn and Instagram Click here to learn more about Jessica and her work  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailHakim A. Lakhdar is a world-class transformational leadership coach, podcast host, and passionate advocate for self-leadership. In this powerful and deeply personal solo episode of Access Your Leadership, Hakim invites us into a raw and reflective journey through one of the most emotionally intense periods of his life—marked by the passing of his beloved grandmother, his father’s serious injury, and his mother’s painful physical challenges. All in the span of just a few weeks.In this candid and heartfelt episode, Hakim doesn't just share a story—he models what it means to lead yourself through grief, uncertainty, family dynamics, logistical chaos, and emotional upheaval. He highlights how even the most difficult moments can become beautiful when we choose to lead ourselves with love, presence, and intention.How do we lead ourselves when everything feels like it’s falling apart? What does it look like to stay grounded in love, service, and perspective when tested? How can our choices in crisis impact the collective energy of a family, a team, or a community?  What happens when we shift from reacting to life to responding with purpose? How can self-leadership become our anchor when we feel completely out of control?From holding his grandmother’s hand in her final days to helping his mother navigate urgent care visits, to calmly redirecting a funeral procession to the right burial site—Hakim walks us through moment after moment that demanded self-leadership, compassion, emotional regulation, and grace.This episode is a masterclass in leading from the inside out. It’s about choosing love over fear, responsiveness over reactivity, and presence over panic.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can connect with Hakim on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingWe're always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop us a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailRoop Sood is the Owner/CEO and CMO of Fifth Weapon, a global digital marketing agency delivering full-funnel strategies for direct-to-consumer brands and service-based businesses. He joins Access Your Leadership to share his remarkable journey from his early years of film and theater in Europe to leading a cutting-edge global marketing firm in the United States. Roop opens up about the power of storytelling in business, how to lead through innovation, and why he sees leadership as both adventure and responsibility.What does it look like to continually evolve (personally and professionally) without losing your sense of self? How can leaders foster a psychologically safe environment that encourages experimentation and growth? What role does coaching play in leadership, both with internal teams and external clients?  How do we help clients see beyond their perceived limits and reframe challenges as opportunities? Why is self-reflection the most underutilized (and powerful) leadership skill? And how can daily journaling help leaders track patterns, clarify intentions, and align with their best selves?Whether you're a business owner looking to scale, a leader building a strong internal culture, or simply someone fascinated by the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and actionable takeaways. Listen to the full episode and discover how Roop blends data, storytelling, and strategy to help brands thrive…all without losing their soul.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Roop Sood on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Roop and the work he and his team do at Fifth Weapon  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailBelle Walker is the Founder and CEO of Belleview Consulting, where she helps businesses take a proactive and strategic approach to designing their organizational structure and culture. She joins Access Your Leadership to share her unique journey from mechanical engineer and aerial photographer to systems-focused consultant helping visionary leaders bridge the gap between big ideas and operational execution.Belle dives into powerful lessons learned from helping clients face hard truths about their team structures, the tension between caring for individuals and doing what’s right for the business, and the value of being honest about what you do (and don’t) want to do as a leader.What does it look like to lead with both compassion and clarity? How can structure support rather than stifle innovation? Why is building the right "bus" just as important as getting the right people on it? What gets in the way of leaders carving out time and space for strategic thinking? How can leaders avoid accidentally boxing themselves in with well-intended decisions? Why is understanding your personal "stretch zone" key to sustainable leadership? And how can passion, even without a clear path, shape the most aligned career moves?These are just some of the questions explored in this episode. Listen in for practical wisdom and powerful insights on self-leadership, future-focused strategy, and building organizations where people and business thrive together. Enjoy!Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Belle K. Walker on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Belle and her work  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDoug Barra is the owner of Action Coach Business Success, a long-time business coach, speaker, and passionate advocate for business re-education. He joins Access Your Leadership to share his incredible journey from software engineer to seasoned coach and now owner of his own (and second) ActionCOACH franchise. With nearly two decades of experience, Doug dives into the mindset shifts, pivotal choices, and leadership philosophies that have shaped his career.What happens when you move from “doing the work” to empowering others to grow their business? How do you know when it's time to pivot from a path that no longer aligns with your vision? What does it really mean to be coachable—and how does that impact your leadership journey? And how do you balance proven systems with your authentic voice when leading, coaching, or building a business?Doug shares the personal and professional milestones that led him to where he is today, including powerful reflections on purpose, problem-solving, and what it takes to make a lasting impact through business leadership.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Doug Barra on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Doug and his work  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailRachel Platt is the Founder and CEO of PLATTinum Consulting, where she partners with small and mid-sized businesses to strengthen leadership, culture, and people strategy. She joins Access Your Leadership to share her leadership journey, from early management experiences to launching her own consulting firm focused on people-first strategies. Rachel dives into the powerful lessons learned from helping employees grow (even in cases where they may need to move on), recognizing untapped talent, and building cultures where learning and development thrive. What does it mean to treat employees as “gifts on loan”? How can leaders transform difficult conversations into opportunities for growth? What simple but powerful strategies can leaders use to cultivate trust and psychological safety? How can small, everyday actions create a culture of continuous learning without big budgets? Why is feedback—both reinforcing and redirecting—the fuel for organizational success? What’s the real difference between caring for your people and coddling them? How can leaders foster a culture of curiosity, accountability, and growth while still setting clear, firm expectations? Why does great leadership always start with a deep commitment to developing others? These are just some of the important questions explored in this episode. Listen in for powerful insights on self-leadership, people strategy, and organizational growth. Enjoy!Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Rachel Platt on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Rachel and her work  You can email Rachel directly at [email protected]  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailTali Hasanov is the CEO and Founder of WSI Digital Path Marketing, a leader in digital strategy and online brand growth. She joins Access Your Leadership to share her journey from a background in classical piano performance to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the digital marketing world. Tali dives into the mindset shifts, personal habits, and leadership strategies that have fueled her success. What role does self-leadership play in business growth? How does establishing a powerful morning routine impact leadership effectiveness? Why is independent thinking just as critical as critical thinking for modern leaders? What lessons from the arts and music can be applied to business and leadership? What happens when doubt creeps in, and how do entrepreneurs push past it to keep going? How does the ability to select the right clients make all the difference in sustainable business growth? Why is consistency the key to long-term success, and how does it intersect with empathy in leadership? What’s the true impact of holistic thinking in digital marketing? How can leaders cultivate adaptability and creativity to thrive in an ever-changing business landscape? These are just some of the compelling questions explored in this episode. Listen in to uncover powerful insights on self-leadership, business growth, and resilience. Enjoy!Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Tali Hasanov on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Tali and her work  You can connect directly with Tali at [email protected] Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Access Your Leadership, host Hakim A. Lakhdar sits down with Shireen Halal, CEO of Maior Strategic Consulting. Shireen brings a wealth of experience in helping professional service firms that feel stuck…whether facing stagnant revenue, outdated strategies, or operational bottlenecks. With a background in law, operations, and strategic consulting, she shares powerful insights on leadership, talent recognition, thought leadership, and the vital connection between people and profits. Together, Hakim and Shireen dive into the nuances of leadership, scaling businesses, and fostering a culture that prioritizes both operational excellence and human capital. They explore the myths around leadership, the importance of speed in decision-making, and how leaders can create an environment where employees feel empowered and engaged. How can leaders break the habit of putting employees into limiting boxes and instead empower their full potential? What role does thought leadership play in business success, and why is it crucial to share insights generously? How does a mindset of service and contribution naturally attract clients and opportunities? What is the real relationship between people and profits, and why is an engaged workforce not just a luxury but a necessity? Why do leaders often think they need to have all the answers, and how does that mindset limit organizational growth? How can organizations move away from vague company values and instead create actionable promises that align with their culture? What are the biggest misconceptions leaders have about innovation, and how does it actually happen on the front lines rather than in the boardroom? What is the value of listening tours, and how do they help leaders identify both hidden roadblocks and potential champions of change? Why is speed a critical leadership skill, and how can leaders implement small, strategic tests before rolling out large-scale initiatives? How can organizations hire not just for fit but for mindset, ensuring that new team members align with company values and expectations? This is no doubt the first of many conversations that Shireen and Hakim will have together. Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for the follow-ups! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Shireen Hilal on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Shireen and Maior ConsultantsDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Access Your Leadership, Hakim has the pleasure of speaking with Ian Tennenbaum, the founder and executive coach at Accountable Live. Ian’s work focuses on helping clients with ADHD navigate the challenges of overthinking, building follow-through, and taking meaningful action in their lives and careers.Ian shares his personal journey of resilience and transformation, highlighting how understanding his own ADHD has been pivotal not only in reshaping his life but also in shaping the work he does with his clients. He recounts his early struggles, from dropping out of college to facing ups and downs in his professional and personal life. Over time, Ian discovered the importance of building awareness, creating systems, and fostering self-compassion to overcome these challenges.Through the conversation, Ian emphasizes the value of scaffolding—structuring support systems to help individuals with ADHD strengthen their skills and build habits for long-term success. He also delves into the importance of self-compassion, explaining how it helps break cycles of shame and allows for a more empowering perspective on challenges. Ian’s insights into how ADHD impacts not just work but also personal relationships underline the significance of open communication and shared understanding.Ian's discussion with Hakim also touched on broader themes of leadership and self-awareness, exploring how these qualities are essential for navigating not just ADHD but any challenges in life and business. By fostering awareness, reframing struggles, and building the right tools and systems, Ian demonstrates how leaders can empower themselves and others to thrive.This episode is a reminder that challenges, when understood and addressed with the right approach, can become catalysts for growth and transformation. Whether you’re managing ADHD or looking to develop stronger self-leadership skills, Ian’s story offers practical wisdom and inspiration for the journey ahead. Enjoy!Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Ian Tenenbaum on LinkedIn.Click here to visit the website to learn more about Ian and his work. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the first episode of 2025! As I reflect on the start of this new year, I opted to share some personal insights and lessons that have already shaped my journey.The year began unexpectedly - I came down with an illness that forced me to slow down. Instead of powering through, as I might have done in the past, I chose to prioritize rest and recovery. It was a different way to start the year, but it felt right. That decision to pause was a reminder that showing up authentically means honoring where I am in the moment.Looking back on the end of 2024, I’m struck by how different it felt compared to 2023. Last year, I embraced acceptance and presence, enjoying quality time with family and celebrating my birthday with lifelong friends. It set the tone for entering 2025 with clarity and a renewed sense of alignment.One big commitment I’ve made this year is starting the 75 Hard Challenge - a 75-day journey focused on mental toughness and discipline. From daily workouts and following a strict diet to reading nonfiction and drinking a gallon of water each day, this challenge aligns perfectly with my theme for 2025: Be Bold. For me, being bold means leaning into resistance, trusting the process, and making courageous decisions, whether that’s in my business, family life, or personal growth.Boldness isn’t just about taking risks—it’s about showing up intentionally and staying true to yourself.Let’s make 2025 a year of alignment, growth, and bold action. Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can incorporate gratitude to not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ To learn more about The Training Rock, our leadership programs and how you can work with us, click here. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Click here to check out the 75 Hard Workbook/Journal Hakim is using. Click here to check out Andy Frisella’s podcast about 75 Hard (explicit language) Click here to b

Send us Fan MailAs 2024 draws to a close, host and coach Hakim A. Lakhdar, shares a heartfelt invitation to reflect on the past year and prepare for what lies ahead. This special episode encourages leaders, professionals, and anyone on a journey of growth to pause, reflect, and reconnect with their purpose. Hakim reflects on his own ups and downs of 2024, sharing personal stories about learning to navigate challenges, embrace gratitude, and realign with what truly matters. He invites listeners to consider their own defining moments from the year—both triumphs and trials—and ask, “If this year were a book, what would its title be?”A key takeaway is the power of gratitude in leadership. Hakim explores how expressing appreciation for others—and for oneself—can transform challenges into growth opportunities. He also delves into renewal, encouraging listeners to let go of what no longer serves them and create space for rest, creativity, and connection. As the episode closes, Hakim invites listeners to set meaningful intentions for 2025, focusing on who they want to be rather than what they want to achieve. This inspiring reflection is a reminder that leadership is about aligning with your values and stepping into the new year with clarity, confidence, and compassion. Enjoy the episode, Happy New Year and may 2025 be all that you wish it to be and more! Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can incorporate gratitude to not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ To learn more about The Training Rock, our leadership programs and how you can work with us, click here. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDustin Riechmann, the Founder of 7-Figure Leap, joins Access Your Leadership to share his unconventional career journey, moving from a stable 17-year engineering career to becoming a thriving entrepreneur. He discusses how his entrepreneurial journey evolved from online marriage ministry to launching a digital marketing consultancy, to creating a successful physical product business, and ultimately founding 7-Figure Leap. As Dustin begins his story, he shares a recent leadership win: speaking to high school seniors in a program called CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities), where he highlighted the importance of storytelling, adaptability, and how embracing uncertainty can lead to growth. How does storytelling create connection and trust in leadership and marketing? Why can embracing uncertainty and taking “non-permanent” steps be transformational? What is the role that identity and alignment with values plays in building personal and professional success? How is empathy, paired with authority, essential for leadership both at work and at home? What were some of the unexpected lessons learned from pivoting during COVID and leveraging podcast guesting to scale businesses? Dustin’s story is a fantastic example of self-leadership and the power of saying “yes” to opportunities, even when they’re outside your comfort zone. So as you listen, be thinking…What are the key values driving your own leadership? How can leaning into curiosity, adaptability, and community help you expand your impact? There’s so much to gain from Dustin’s insights, especially around leadership, resilience, and the power of community. Enjoy!Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Dustin Riechmann on LinkedInClick here to learn more about 7-Figure Leap and find ways to connect with their communityClick here to tune into to Dustin’s podcast, 7-Figure LeapDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailBob Tankesley, M&A Advisor, Principal at Neri Capital Partners, and Author of the new book, Exit Teams: Build a Team of Advisors for Your Business Sale to Get a Higher Price. In this episode, Bob shares his expertise in helping business owners prepare for and execute successful exits while building value in their companies. He goes on to explain the complexities of selling a business, emphasizing the importance of leadership, optimization, and assembling the right team of advisors to maximize results. Bob’s wealth of experience in mergers and acquisitions, along with his passion for helping business owners, shines through in this insightful and actionable conversation. Why are leadership and personnel issues critical when positioning a business for sale? What is the importance of building a team of advisors early? What is the often-overlooked component of selling a business and how can you prepare for it? How can focusing on leadership development increase business value and position you for a more successful sale? What does it take to prepare your business for a successful sale? Why do leadership and team dynamics play such a significant role in attracting buyers? How can business owners overcome the emotional challenges of letting go? What leadership shifts are necessary to transition from operator to seller? Whether you’re a business owner considering an exit or a leader looking to future-proof your company, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Bob Tankesley on LinkedInYou can email Bob directly at [email protected]  Click here to sign up and learn more about Bob’s work and new bookClick here to buy Bob’s new book, Exit Teams: Build a Team of Advisors for Your Business Sale to Get a Higher PriceDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailLeslee Cohen, founder and managing partner of All Rise Legal Counsel, joins Access Your Leadership to share her incredible journey as a leader in the legal profession. From Wall Street to building her own boutique law firm, Leslee has redefined what leadership looks like in her industry by prioritizing empathy, flexibility, and authenticity. In this inspiring conversation, Leslee takes us through the twists and turns of her career, from navigating high-pressure roles in corporate law to creating a firm where lawyers can thrive both professionally and personally. She shares how she built a culture of trust and flexibility at All Rise Legal Counsel, offering a safe space for team members to bring their whole selves to work. How did a tough career transition lead you to discover your value and negotiate for what you deserved? What was the process of scaling your firm while staying true to your vision and values? Why develop a leadership philosophy that puts empathy at the forefront and ensures the team feels seen, heard, and supported? Why or how might flexibility in the workplace benefit both employees and clients? How do empathy and flexibility make you a better leader?Why is it critical to create a safe space for team members to show up authentically? What role does constructive feedback play in personal and professional growth? How can leaders build cultures of trust that retain top talent? This episode is packed with self-leadership insights and actionable lessons on building trust, creating safe spaces, and leading with compassion. Whether you’re a leader navigating a career pivot or looking to build a team culture rooted in authenticity, Leslee’s story will leave you inspired.Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Leslee Cohen on LinkedInYou can email Leslee directly at [email protected] Click here to learn more about AllRise Legal Counsel and the work of Leslee and her teamDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo Thanksgiving Week episode of Access Your Leadership, Hakim dives into the transformative power of gratitude and how it can elevate your leadership game—both in leading yourself and others. Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice; it’s a leadership tool that fosters trust, inspires engagement, and drives impactful results. In this episode, Hakim shares a short story about coaching a leader who discovered how gratitude could revolutionize their connection with their team. He also provides practical insights into how gratitude helps leaders shift their focus from problems to possibilities, strengthen relationships, and how to cultivate clarity, confidence, and compassion in their roles. Why is gratitude one of the most underrated tools in leadership? How does expressing gratitude strengthen workplace trust and morale? What’s the connection between gratitude and emotional intelligence? How can daily gratitude practices shift your leadership mindset? Three simple ways to incorporate gratitude into your leadership today. What do the statistics say about the measurable impact of gratitude in the workplace? Gratitude is more than a mindset—it’s a powerful, practical habit that can transform how you show up as a leader. Whether you’re reflecting on small wins, expressing appreciation to your team, or finding lessons in challenges, gratitude can help you lead with more clarity, compassion, and confidence. There are a number of ideas shared in this episode that can help you integrate gratitude into your leadership journey. It’s quick, it’s actionable, and it has the potential to shift your entire perspective. Enjoy!Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can incorporate gratitude to not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ To learn more about The Training Rock, our leadership programs and how you can work with us, click here. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDan Lubic is a Fractional V.P. of Sales, as a member of the Sales XCeleration network, which allows him to partner with small-to-medium sized businesses to help them drive sales growth. Dan joins Access Your Leadership to talk about his 36 amazing years building a career at FedEx, where he started as a delivery driver, and where that’s led him today. As Dan begins to tell the story of his inspiring professional journey, he shares a personal win from his mid-thirties that he’s still celebrating today - overcoming a health issue that left him paralyzed and likely unable to walk for the rest of his life. In this surprise share, Dan describes how this all came about, what the doctors and nurses were telling him and how he chose to focus on possibility and positivity to navigate an incredibly scary situation. What kind of mindset prepares someone for something like that and has them choose to fight, rather than flee or freeze? How powerful can our minds and positive thinking be in the most challenging of times? What was it about your time and the culture at FedEx that would compel someone to continue working from their hospital bed? Why are sales training and leadership development not mutually exclusive? What role did recognition, praise and formal acknowledgement play in your motivation and success while at FedEx? How did your various roles within an organization for 36 years prepare you for retirement and your “encore career” as a fractional VP of Sales? How did your personal medical experience shape you as a leader of self and others? When do leaders need to have all the answers and should they strive to be the smartest person in the room? Dan’s incredible professional experience is only matched by the personal journey that he found himself on suddenly in 2001. There are so many self-leadership gold nuggets to gain from this episode that help put life and career into perspective and provide you with lessons for how to get the best out of your people. Enjoy! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Dan Lubic on LinkedInYou can email Dan directly at [email protected] Click here to learn more about Dan’s work with Sales XCelerationDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Check out the Big10 YouTube video about Penn State’s Adam TaliferroCheck out The Playbook on Netflix

Send us Fan MailEvan Nierman, the Founder and CEO of Red Banyan PR, a strategic communications firm specializing in public relations and crisis-management, joins Access Your Leadership for a conversation about how important life-long learning is to becoming and being a CEO. In this episode, Evan shares how valuable it is to “just show up” as a leader and business owner. He explains how celebrating the little wins along the way is as powerful, if not more powerful than waiting for some big event to occur. Evan not only talks about but demonstrates what vulnerability looks like in leadership and the significant impact it can have on those you lead. Why is the need for instant gratification so common these days and how does that play into one’s leadership journey and that of building a business? How does identifying team members’ level of “skill” and “will” help with understanding how to get the best out of your people? What does “hiring for mindset, teach for skillset” mean and how can that be incorporated into getting the right people on the bus and building a strong company culture? Is a fixed mindset a life sentence or can people learn/be taught how to adopt a growth mindset? Why was the option of entrepreneurship so attractive and what did you realize right away? How important is it to seek support early on and to surround yourself with the proper network? What’s the difference between working “in your business” vs. working “on your business?” Why would someone wait to call themselves an entrepreneur or even a CEO? How can insisting on doing it all on your own ultimately hold you back from greater success in your business? When and where are generalists and specialists valuable? What can personal challenges or events in our life teach us about leadership and business if we’re willing to be vulnerable and reflect? Evan demonstrates why he, his business, his teams and his clients all thrive as part of Red Banyan in his light, fun and open way of communicating. Enjoy the episode! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Evan Nierman on LinkedInYou can email Evan directly at [email protected] Click here to learn more about Red Banyan PRYou can also learn more and connect via social media at Facebook, Instagram or XDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these book links!Mindset by Carol Dweck Grit by Angela DuckworthGood to Great by Jim Collins

Send us Fan MailRobert Merlin is the immediate-past President of the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals, former President of the Collaborative Family Law Institute and a Senior Partner and the Founder of Robert J. Merlin, P.A., where he represents clients in divorces through the Collaborative Process. In this episode, Bob gives a detailed and inspiring explanation of exactly what the Collaborative Practice is, how it works and why it’s such a valuable approach to divorce and other (often legal) matters. Bob shares what it was like to be a hard-nosed litigator for so much of his legal career and how he then came to learn of the Collaborative Process. He explains how he learned more about it, incorporated it into his own practice and how he would ultimately transition to exclusively handling matters for clients through the Collaborative approach. Where and with whom did the Collaborative Practice originate? How long has this practice/approach been around? Why is it seen by many as a better approach to litigation? What are the personal and professional implications of incorporating this practice into how you serve clients? Is this a formally recognized approach to resolving divorces and other disputes? Is the Collaborative Approach limited to only divorce/family law? How did self-leadership play a role in exploring this new and alternative approach to how you’ve practiced law for so long? What compelled you to no longer litigate and only work with clients in the Collaborative way? Why might other attorneys or professionals be hesitant about incorporating this approach into their regular practice/workflow? What skills are necessary and/or developed when this Collaborative Process is adopted/incorporated? Is this process right for everyone facing divorce or other disputes? Why is language so important as part of this Process? You will have these and so many other questions answered as you learn about this fascinating, refreshing and effective approach to an area of law that has been handled in such a way for so long. Bob is experienced, knowledgeable and passionate about this work and, as he shares, “if he can do it, so can you!”. Enjoy the episode! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Bob Merlin on LinkedIn or at +1-305-448-1555.Click here to learn more about Bob’s practice and the Collaborative ProcessClick here to learn more about the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals (FACP)Email Hakim directly to learn more about his upcoming Keynote at the May 2025 FACP Annual Conference. Click here to learn more about the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP)Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailMichelle Mekky is the CEO and Founder of Mekky Media Relations, Inc., a member of the Strategic Advancement Committee, on the Executive Council for the International Public Relations Network (IPRN) and most recently a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council. She is based in Chicago, which is where she and Hakim met at an Exit Success Lab two-day conference event. Michelle joins Access Your Leadership to share her incredible story and journey of becoming the leader of an award-winning PR firm and all that it took to get there. She shares personal and professional challenges that she had to face and overcome in order to step into the leadership role she was alway meant to play. Why after all that is her biggest leadership win all that her team has accomplished? What do accolades represent to leaders and team members along the journey? What’s the difference between weight and burden of leadership? How can we hire and surround ourselves with the most talented, most aligned people? Why is feeling good as a leader so important? What’s the main responsibility of a leader? How do acknowledgements of your internal team impact morale and performance? Where do values play a role in hiring and creating a culture? How might getting fired be more challenging or different than finding out that you have cancer? Where does self-belief and self-worth play a role in your willingness to take risks? How important is our truth and the truth of those close to us as we embark on new and unfamiliar activities? Is heart really that important in leadership? What’s the difference between empowerment and delegation? There are so many more questions being answered and gold nuggets shared in this episode. Listen to what authentic leadership sounds like and then listen again. Where’s the opportunity for you? Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Michelle on LinkedIn or InstagramClick here to connect with Michelle and learn more about Mekky Media Relations, Inc.You can also connect directly with Michelle at [email protected] Click here for Michelle’s Forbes Agency Council page  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailRob Cressy is an AI & Self Development Coach, Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Speaker and the Co-founder of the Unlimited Coach community. Rob and Hakim have run in similar circles for some time now and really connected when they attended a virtual conference for a coaching community, where they each helped elevate the virtual space for those not attending the London event in-person. From there, their connection grew and Hakim ended up engaging Rob in podcast coaching in order to launch Access Your Leadership. From there, they met up in Santa Monica and have become close friends and co-creators, meeting up often in-person since they both reside in Florida. In this episode, Hakim welcomes Rob onto the podcast to commemorate and celebrate the podcast’s one-year anniversary. Together, they talk about the journey of even getting to the place of being “ready” to launch a podcast and then what self-leadership was required to actually execute on that desire. Rob talks about his own journey and the various challenges and obstacles he’s encountered along the way and how he helps others better understand themselves to navigate those more effectively. Hakim and Rob talk about the level of responsibility and ownership we can create in our own lives, careers and creation journeys. How does control play into self-leadership? What does it take to take action despite limiting beliefs, apprehension and a lack of knowledge of the steps to get where you’re going? Why is energy so important when you’re sharing yourself online? How is just noticing what’s alive in you enough to create content and impact? What’s the difference between 0 and 1? Are you a passive observer or active participant in your leadership and life? What does it mean to feel like a sports car stuck in the garage and what’s your role to play? How important is momentum and putting in the reps when it comes to starting something new? Rob and Hakim discuss these questions and more as coaches, fathers, husbands, friends and creators. Enjoy the episode and here’s to another year of podcasting! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Rob on LinkedIn, Facebook, or InstagramYou can also connect directly with Rob at [email protected] Click here to learn more about The Unlimited Coach Community w/ Rob Cressy and Colin ScotlandDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected]  Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Built For The Game on YouTubeRob Cressy YouTube Page

Send us Fan MailA lot has happened since my last published episode, which I did with my father. Unfortunately, days after publishing that episode, my father was admitted to the hospital and ended up being there for 2 weeks. I am happy to report that he got some good medical attention and has been home now for a few weeks regaining his strength and getting himself back on track. Additionally, my 93 year old grandmother was experiencing some issues related to her assisted living situation, which the whole family responded to in a beautiful way to resolve. She remains in her beautiful apt and is doing well. Not that this wasn’t enough to keep my mind and heart busy, but I had a number of speaking engagements and had a trip planned to Chicago for some business and networking meetings. It was an incredible trip and I’ll even have one of my new friends on the podcast as a guest here shortly. Upon returning from Chicago for the surprise my wife had waiting for me, I was back at the airport for a surprise trip to Boston to meet one of my best friends for a Pearl Jam concert at Fenway Park. While I was tired from my previous trip and it was all a bit unexpected, it was an amazing surprise and I felt so loved to be gifted that! This is much of the reason why I took a bit of a break with the podcast and also why my Creation Vacation with Rob Cressy ended up being so perfectly timed. We had a full day in Key Largo/Islamorada, Florida talking about business, coaching, life, family and how each of us shows up in each of those areas of our lives. It was intense and confronting while also being very loving and supportive. We shattered self-imposed ceilings and created so many new possibilities for what we do in our businesses and how we do it. I left that day feeling inspired, energized and motivated to be fearless in my asks, to not limit myself and who I’m being each and every day and to take bold action in my business and with my clients. That all would not have been possible without creating the space and the container for those conversations to emerge. And this is my encouragement to you…where are you holding yourself back? Where are you playing small? Where might you be living in a place of limited possibilities? And most importantly, who are you able to surround yourself with and be in conversation with who can call these things (and you) out on these things? Finding time to take a “creation vacation” from your every day is a necessary part of growing and expanding who you are as a leader, business owner and human being. So…who’s that person for you? How do you create that time for yourself? Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can get out of your head and not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected]  Check out previous epis

Send us Fan MailDr. Sidi M. Lakhdar (aka “Lakhdar,” “Papa” and “Grand-pere”) is a retired Professor of Special Education. Before retiring in 2019, he spent 44 years of his career developing and designing programs, as well as teaching and training teachers of special education in multiple languages and multiple countries around the world. He is a dedicated husband, grandfather and…father to my brother, Samir, and me. After taking a break for some summer travel, I decided that my father was the perfect guest to have on and feature in my return episode. In this episode, Dr. Lakhdar shares his amazing and inspiring story of growing up in Morocco and moving to the United States to further his education and build a life. What was it like to arrive in the States, not knowing the language, not really knowing anyone and with only a few dollars in your pocket? How did courage, confidence and honesty play a role in you finally setting your life in motion? What compelled you to pursue a career in academia, especially special education? Why was hard work and discipline so important in your success as a student and beyond? How did you overcome adversity in your early years and how has that shaped your philosophy as it relates to challenging times? Why did you move to the Middle East soon after your first child and when and why did you come back to the States? How have your values shaped your relationship with your wife, your children, your students and peers? Why did stigmas around students with disabilities leave such an impression on you? What was your vision for your family, future and career and how did that shape your decision-making? How did you end up working with governments in the Caribbean? Why have optimism and positivity been so important in your professional and personal journey? These questions are so thoughtfully answered and reflected on by this great man, who I am lucky enough to call my father. This was an incredibly special opportunity for me to share a bit of my father’s unique and special story and I hope you enjoy hearing it as much as I have over the years. Thanks, Papa. Je t’aime!  Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Dr. Lakhdar on LinkedInDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailLaura Sauter is a speaker, fractional CMO and the Owner and Senior Brand Strategist with Agency Bel, a boutique agency that develops identities and visual elements for print and digital communications focused on conscientious organization with a strong sense of corporate responsibility. She joins Access Your Leadership to share how she’s spent the last 23 years successfully building her agency and serving clients in such a valuable way. In this episode, Laura reflects on the path she was on prior to launching her own business and what she learned about herself, and continued to reflect on, along the way. The conversation starts with sharing a big client win that touches on the question of ROI when investing in professional services. How do clients make decisions to work with you? What expectations are discussed from both sides in those early conversations? Why might a service provider not offer or even discourage a client from investing in a particular service and how does that help to build trust? How important is it for both client and service provider to be fully engaged in the work? Why is this type of consulting work similar to panning for gold? How valuable is the phrase “we’ve just always done it that way?” What’s an helpful approach to dealing with clients in that mindset or those who don’t want to put in the work? Where and when in our lives is a self-audit helpful? What were the circumstances and self-talk that went into leaving the corporate world and starting your own agency? How do you know if it’s the right time or the right move to partner with someone else? What does it mean to just “let it breathe” or “create space between the notes”? There is so much gold packed into this episode. You are sure to enjoy Laura, her story and her leadership! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Laura on LinkedInClick here to connect with Laura and learn more about Agency BelYou can also connect directly with Laura at [email protected].  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailAndrew Coplon is the Founder of Craft Beer Professionals, a national network dedicated to the growth and betterment of the Craft Beer industry and Founder of Secret Hopper, a mystery shopping and consulting company for craft beer businesses. Andrew joins Access Your Leadership to talk about his journey that’s led him to developing a community of over 17,000 craft beer industry professionals. He shares his take on the current state of the industry, what experiences he’s had and created for his craft beer peers and how leadership plays into any and all careers in this industry. For instance, what’s different about conferences/workshops that CBP organizes and hosts? What kinds of things are attendees initially hungry for and then saying about CBP events that they’ve attended? Why is connecting and building new relationships such an important part of business and leadership? What were the early years like when first launching Secret Hopper and then CBP? From where or why did you have the idea to create such a community and how receptive were people at the start? While the craft beer industry is an industry of passionate people, how does a company culture contribute to a vibe and who does that impact? How important is it to love what you do when you’re starting something new? What are ways that leaders in this industry, or any industry, can motivate and inspire their team members and employees? How do you utilize data in your leadership and decision-making process and is that the most valuable tool in leadership? What’s the difference between entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship? What were some of the learnings taken from working in food services and then leading a craft beer professionals community? How does curiosity play into the way people connect, build relationships and lead? So much of what is discussed about the craft beer industry, can be applied to any leader or professional in any industry. Enjoy the episode and if you’re in the industry and not connected to Andrew or CBP, I encourage you connect! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Andrew on LinkedInClick here to connect with Andrew and learn more about Craft Beer Professionals (CBP)Click here to check out the CBP Facebook communityYou can also connect directly with Andrew at [email protected] here to learn more and/or purchase your tickets to the Inaugural Virginia Brewers Conference, Sept. 16-18, 2024 in Richmond, VA. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailKathleen E.R. Murphy, an Executive Sports Coach and CEO of her company Market Me Too out of Boston, Massachusetts, joins Access Your Leadership to talk about her transition from corporate to coaching. Kathy shares how throughout her career she had a feeling that there was more she could be doing to align with her purpose. She initially explored providing coaching in a business/leadership context and later blended her experience and passion into working with sports teams and their coaching staff. Kathy has worked with athletes and teams at all levels of sport and has researched and written extensively about her findings. Kathy addresses questions such as what is executive (or leadership) presence and why is it so highly desirable by clients at a certain point in their career? What is the real economic impact of retention and why is it so important to invest heavily in culture and setting employees up for success early on? What led to the decision to leave corporate and start the coaching journey? How did you leverage transferable skills at this transition point in your career? What/Who inspired you to explore sports leadership with athletes and their coaches? How are the corporate coaching and sports leadership coaching similar and different? Are people all motivated the same way and if not, why? What are Gallup Strengths and how do you incorporate those into your coaching? Where does writing fit into the work you do? What’s the secret ingredient to championship teams and who can find out what that might be? Kathy shares a ton of insight and explains in detail the work she does and the value it creates for her corporate clients and sports teams and athletes. Enjoy! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Kathleen E.R. Murphy on LinkedInClick here to connect with Kathy and learn more about Market Me TooClick here to check out Kathy’s YouTube Show, Murf+Me Unfiltered Click here to check out our episode together on Murf+Me UnfilteredDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDr. Heidi K. Gardner, an old friend and Harvard colleague, joins Access Your Leadership to share her incredible journey around the world, leading her to being an expert in the area of collaboration. Dr. Gardner is a Distinguished Fellow and Lecturer at Harvard Law School, a Co-founder of Smarter Collaboration International and CEO of Gardner & Co., a research and consulting firm that provides collaboration focused solutions with boards and senior leadership teams to transform their organizations. From her early years of growing up in/near Amish Country Pennsylvania, Heidi later ventured out to make her mark on the world. In this episode, Heidi shares a bit about the ways in which she chose to expand her horizons, perspectives, education and experience. She talks about her experience working for several elite organizations and institutions, where in the world those opportunities took her and how she managed herself and her decision-making through those various twists and turns. How important is it to work with purpose-driven organizations and how does that align with how you lead your own organization and team? In what ways do passion, diversity and authenticity impact what we choose to do in our role as leaders? Is positivity and surrounding ourselves with positive people necessary to be successful or simply a “nice-to-have?” How is managing oneself through challenging situations as a leader also so beneficial to those you lead? What did having supportive parents and family allow for you to see for yourself as you started your academic and professional career? Why was it so important to not only visit but live and work in other parts of the world and what did that reveal about you? Did you ever feel pressure to take a certain path and what was your process for managing that? How have you learned to relate to your inner critic and what role has your support network played in that? Why has gratitude and never forgetting where you came from been so important in your journey? What perspective of the world, the people around you and yourself in the world have you maintained that has served you best? From Japan, to Germany, South Africa, the U.K. and then back to the U.S., Heidi has engaged with and impacted so many throughout her years as a professional and continues to do so as she builds her businesses. This conversation is a reminder of what is possible for a leader when they follow their heart, their passion and their purpose. Enjoy the episode! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect directly with Dr. Heidi K. Gardner on LinkedInClick here to learn more about Smarter Collaboration International Click here to learn more about Gardner & Co. Click here to purchase Smart Collaboration or Smarter CollaborationDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify,

Send us Fan MailRhonda Kohn, a Real Estate Advisor with Keller Williams Realty, joins Access Your Leadership to share her inspiring story about life after cancer and serving her clients. Rhonda helps buyers and sellers in both the Florida and California markets and she is also a three-time cancer survivor. In this episode, Rhonda shares what it was like finding out that she would be fighting cancer (and fight she did) and what impact each of those experiences had on her life and business of serving her clients. She talks about how she got started, what brought her to Florida and how she’s taken her business national. What is the difference between being alive and living? How or where did sharing or choosing not to share her health situation with others impact her and her business early on? What are some challenges that she has faced working with clients and how have her experiences impacted how she handles those now? Why are relationships so important in real estate or any business interaction? What did the fight against cancer again and again and again teach her about fighting for her clients? How is trust built quickly when taking on new real estate clients? What is so valuable about transparency and honesty to both agent and client in this work? Why is the difference between being dismissive and being selective so important? The resilience shared by Rhonda in this episode will completely shift how you show up and appreciate life. Take the time to list and enjoy! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Rhonda on LinkedInTo learn more about Rhonda and her work check out her websiteYou can also connect directly with Rhonda at 800-825-0102 or at [email protected]  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailAl Kenny, an internationally respected coach, joins Access Your Leadership again for Part Two of his story of transformation that he shared back in March 2024. As you may recall, Al works to help people achieve their goals and dreams without stress and pressure. In Part One of this conversation, Al shared how he received some rather sobering feedback from a potential hire he was considering for a role on this team. Upon hearing that, Al embarked on a journey that had him learning a ton about performance culture, leadership and most importantly, a great deal about himself. In this episode, Al generously shares the ins and outs, ups and downs of that nearly eight-year journey, its impact on his company, his colleagues, his career and himself. Al's masterful way of describing the lessons and learning that he gained through this journey is captured in this conversation. How and why was hearing such honest feedback at that point in your career such a gift? What were the next steps taken to start learning more about what leadership meant and how you could lead in an authentic way? How was this "newer" version and this pursuit received and/or supported by colleagues who might have had a different previous perception of you? What is the significance of "right and wrong" in how leaders lead themselves and others? Is it really a leader's role to have all the answers or know the "right" way to do things? How does a leader maintain focus on their role as a leader while still creating space for others to add value and grow? How did leading by example impact how people perceived this journey you were on? These a many other questions are so honestly discussed as Al generously shares his experience and growth through this period of his life. If you're wondering if being a leader is something you can do overnight or how knowing (and loving) yourself play a role, you'll want to tune in. Enjoy! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Al on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedInTo connect with Al directly you can email him at [email protected]  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailRuss Katzman, a Strategist, Coach, Mentor, Author and International Speaker and the Founder and CEO of Progeny Coaching and Consulting LLC, joins Access Your Leadership to talk about how purpose and evolution are two key ingredients for success in leadership and business. Russ shares some of the details on his own journey, starting from his early years in Wisconsin all the way to where he is now as a husband, father and business owner living in the Tampa area. He explains one of his superpowers, which he discovered early on in his career, that allows him to bridge communication gaps between business units while still maintaining the ability to see and strategize for the bigger picture. Speaking to similar audiences and both working with experienced professionals, Hakim and Russ discuss some pitfalls to leadership and best practices that directly impact the way individuals lead themselves, others and their businesses. How challenging can it sometimes be for leaders or owners of a business to relinquish control and step back? Where does purpose come into play when understanding ourselves, what motivates us and the actions we take to achieve our goals? What “work” would you be willing to do for free and how does that play into how we assess our career choices and goals? Whose responsibility is it to give leaders permission to evolve, and why is it so necessary to have that permission? What makes being comfortable with being uncomfortable so powerful as we grow as leaders? How important is slowing down and taking time to self-audit when making big life choices and/or career transitions? Is a commitment to life-long learning an important aspect to effective leadership? What is the best leadership style and how does adaptability play into leading oneself and others? How does being clear on your values impact the authentic leadership style we ultimately adopt and apply in our life and career? There are so many directions these questions and others could have taken this conversation, but there is no shortage of value shared in this episode. Listen up, listen again and enjoy! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Russ on LinkedInTo connect with Russ and learn more about Progeny Coaching & Consulting visit https://progenycc.com/ You can also email Russ directly at [email protected] this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday -

Send us Fan MailIn this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode of Access Your Leadership,  Hakim guides you through a brief 5-minute medidation dedicated to creating peace, power and passion in who you are as a leader. Hakim wants ever leader to absolutely love their leadership journey, both for what that creates for the life and career of the individual as well as for those they lead. This guided meditation is designed specifically for leaders to highlight the importance of mental health, especially in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. As leaders, the pressures and responsibilities can often lead to stress and burnout, making mental health practices not just beneficial but essential. This meditation session serves as a tool to enhance awareness, reduce stress, and cultivate a mindset of connection and clarity.During this short meditation, you will be guided through techniques that focus on deep breathing and mindfulness, encouraging a moment of pause in their busy schedules. This practice helps leaders step back from the day-to-day demands and reconnect with their inner calm and wisdom. Even a short session can improve concentration, foster emotional stability, and boost decision-making capabilities by clearing the mind and alleviating the weight of constant high-stakes thinking.Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being, particularly in leadership roles where the ripple effects of one's mental state can influence entire organizations. By engaging in guided meditations, leaders not only enhance their own mental health but also set a powerful example for their teams, promoting a healthier, more mindful, and empathetic workplace culture. This meditation is an invitation for leaders to prioritize their mental health, ensuring they lead not just with skill, but with their hearts and with wellness as their foundation.

Send us Fan MailAngel Gonzalez, the CEO of Millennium Benefits, joins Access Your Leadership to share his journey learning about and then ultimately leading his family insurance practice. Starting in the business in 1996, Angel worked closely with his mother and (then) step-father to support them in building the business. Never expecting to stay in the business long-term, he evolved not only as a professional but as a relationship-focused leader of their family owned and operated insurance brokerage focused on employee group benefits. In this episode, Angel shares what it was like to learn the business at a young age from his experienced, successful and quite different mother and step-father. He explains how he gained a deeper understanding of all aspects of running and business and how big a role relationships play in sustaining and growing such a business. What’s it like to start your career working in a family business? How does managing the operations of the business differ from the client relationship side and how do they support one another? What about insurance and benefits was appealing enough to build a career around that? How did your mother and the way she led herself influence the leader you’d come to be? How did your personality and love of people contribute to your success and love for the business you now run? Why was your shared focus on relationships such a big factor in the work dynamic that you shared with your mother? What has it been like to step out from your mother’s shadow and now lead on your own? How did it feel to not be partnering with your mother after working side-by-side for so long and after her diagnosis? How does one make the shift from doing it all themselves to being able to delegate? What are the benefits of delegating and accepting support? What role does ego play in delegating? How can being self-aware, leading oneself effectively and doing a regular self-audit be helpful as a leader? Why is caring about clients and treating them like family a differentiator in business and how does it impact how you target prospective clients? This conversation is all about heart and how being relationship-focused not only benefits your family and working relationships, but how your clients experience you and how your business grows. Angel is clearly committed to his own leadership journey and bringing others along with him as he and his company continue to rise. Enjoy the conversation! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Angel on LinkedInTo connect with Angel and learn more about Millenium Benefits visit https://www.mbimiami.com/ You can also connect directly with Angel at [email protected] Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or someone you know, then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDeirdre Nero, an immigration attorney and owner of Nero Immigration Law, P.L., joins Access Your Leadership to share her incredibly inspiring story about her life and career after being diagnosed with alopecia at the young age of twenty-one. In this episode, Deirdre shares how you came to learn of her disease and how it impacted and also didn’t impact her success as a law student, young attorney and eventually law firm owner. Deirdre describes the unique circumstances and the self-leadership that was required to venture into immigration law in her first year as a practicing attorney and how that determination allowed her to power through various personal challenges to celebrate great success in her career and recently 15 years of owning her own firm. How do we react to potentially devastating challenges in our lives? Where does self-leadership play a role in managing oneself and their career? What happens if we never have the courage to simply ask or advocate for ourselves? How do we prioritize our personal lives and self care while also building a career? What is the mindset required to process a completely unexpected situation where your self-image is in question? How important are the people around you and building a community when coping with challenging circumstances? Why is knowing oneself and our own personality type (strengths, fears, vulnerabilities) so important when leading ourselves and others? What does it mean to be called to a cause and how can helping others also be a way of helping ourselves? How do we continue to move forward when it feels like the chips are stacked against us and what does that teach us about ourselves? So many of these questions and more are discussed in this powerful conversation with Deirdre, an attorney and advocate for so many! Enjoy the episode and please take the time to educate yourself about and support the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF).Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Deirdre on LinkedIn, Instagram and her other social media sitesYou can email Deirdre directly at [email protected] Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Nero Immigration Law, P.L. - https://neroimmigration.com/ Deirdre Nero’s firm bio - https://neroimmigration.com/about-us/deirdrenero/  The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) - https://www.naaf.org/To support Deirdre and her work with NAAF - https://support.naaf.org/campaign/deirdre-nero-fundraising-page/c250369

Send us Fan MailJim McEleney, a franchise consultant with FranNet who helps people look at their options for business ownership in the franchise model, joins Access Your Leadership to share some of his amazing stories and lessons from his international work and how that all led him to what he’s doing now. In this episode, Jim explains what it was like and what he learned working in the U.K. and India for a combined nine years! He spent three years in London, then two in India and then another four years back in London before moving to Florida and embarking on another career adventure. Hakim and Jim discuss how Jim’s leadership of himself and others allowed him to create a reputation in his company as a leader who deeply cared for his people, could motivate and propel large teams/offices towards a common goal and could adapt his style to fit the needs of the company and those he led. How does one decide to seize an opportunity to work overseas and what are the considerations involved? What is it like to work and live in both English and non-English speaking countries? What is the value of community and why is it so necessary when acclimating to overseas work and expat life? What are some of the possible pitfalls of working internationally? How might working with a coach, especially a local culture coach, support you and set you up for success? What is the relationship between technical expertise and leadership, and how big a role does people management play? How does maintaining a growth mindset and being open to opportunities create a wealth of professional (and personal) possibilities? What skills are transferable from international finance/banks and franchise ownership and consulting? Why is being “culture conscious” so important when leading an existing or new team of employees? What might compel someone to leave a long-time, successful career to pursue business/franchise ownership and how can working with a consultant help with that decision? How does simply understanding people and meeting them where they are factor into the way we lead ourselves and others? All this and more is touched upon in this exciting and compelling episode. Enjoy!  Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Jim on LinkedInYou can email Jim directly at [email protected] To learn more about FranNet visit https://frannet.com/ (and look for Jim)Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailPhyllis Sisenwine, aka The Lawyers Coach, joins Access Your Leadership to share how she got into coaching over 25 years ago and how she has successfully led herself and her clients during that time. Phyllis is a Certified Master Coach, a speaker and author and she works with clients (mostly lawyers) to help them develop themselves and build their business. She is a frequent guest at conferences, on radio and TV talking about not only the ways she supports her coaching clients, but also how other coaches out in the world can build their own practices. In this episode, Phyllis shares a few leadership wins, incredibly helpful tips that she offers clients around time management and delegation and why she has committed herself to coaching for the last 25 years. How did selling office supplies and office furniture turn into coaching lawyers? How important is it to be open to possibilities and to seize opportunities, signs or inspiration when they hit? How can being a public speaker or trainer of groups help in generating clients and how does one lead themselves through that process? When differentiating yourself as a leader, what sorts of things can you look for or do? Why is delegation so important as a leader of self, others and/or a business? How does doing only what you love factor into the way you do or don’t delegate and create a team of talented professionals around you? What’s the impact of interruptions on your productivity and how can you structure your days/weeks in a more effective/efficient way? Why would anyone want to “eat the frog”? What are some of the ways coaching, mentoring and accountability support helpful to you as a leader? Phyllis shares her wealth of knowledge and experience with listeners, to demonstrate what it means to lead oneself, lead a business, lead a team as well as highlight the value of coaching in the professional (and personal) world today. Enjoy the episode! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Phyllis on LinkedInYou can email Phyllis directly at [email protected] Or you can visit her websites to learn more about her work (speaking, coaching, writing),:https://powerfulcoaching.com/https://thelawyerscoach.com/ Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIn this solo episode, Hakim shares some food for thought pertaining to the harsh voice that sometimes shows up in all of our heads - our inner critic! In our younger years, our inner voice was much less critical and there to truly keep us safe. However, as we get older, gain experience and collect our stories, that inner voice turns into our inner critic and can really show up loudly at times, assuming that it’s still keeping us safe. Instead, that inner critic often has us playing small, avoiding any and all risk, overlooking opportunity and much more. It creates those responses in our mind because our inner critic does two things - it judges and it compares. Not only does it judge and compare ourselves in our own minds, but it also judges and compares others as well. In this short episode, Hakim gives some easy-to-use tips and strategies from his work with The Training Rock, that help to quiet that inner critic and recondition your mind to being more open and a lot less critical. If you think you’re the only one with an inner critic, you’re not alone. We all have it and we can all manage it. And when we do, we can catch ourselves in those moments when our inner critic is trying to run the show! Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can get out of your head and not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ To learn more about The Training Rock, our leadership programs and how you can work with us, click here. Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected]. Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailDan Truex is a military veteran, a Lexington, KY law enforcement officer and the CEO of GuardLogic, a security company that provides top-notch security by pairing great people with real analytics to build out a custom program that focuses on constantly improving. He is also a devoted and loving husband and father. In this episode, Dan shares how, while touring college campuses at the young age of nineteen, he made a big life decision that set him on a path of learning and leadership. Dan shares the ways in which his commitment to self-awareness has served him throughout his life, both professionally and personally. He discusses with Hakim how doing a self-audit and consistently revisiting his values created greater clarity and confidence in making tough decisions and/or staying the course along his journey. So, can perfectionism be a good thing? How does a person meet or lead themselves when they’re feeling feelings of emptiness or lack of fulfillment? Why is self-reflection and self-awareness so important in both determining and creating what you want in your life? What happens if we aren’t able to clearly define success for ourselves? How does a person’s relationship to failure impact how they’re able to enroll others in their vision? What is the value of participating in a 360 Review and getting honest feedback from everyone around you? How important is it to have a loving and supportive spouse by your side? Why is it so necessary to create relationships with people who will provide you with honest, regular feedback? As a leader, how do you stay open to different perspectives and why is it so necessary to not always need to be right? There are so many valuable twists and turns that this powerful conversation with Dan ends up taking. Dan shares so many amazing leadership lessons and tips. So listen well and enjoy the conversation! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Dan on LinkedIn or Facebook To connect with Dan directly you can email him at [email protected]   Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Click here to learn more about GuardLogic and the amazing work Dan and his team are doing in the security space 

Send us Fan MailJeff Bast, a well-respected bankruptcy lawyer and cofounder of Bast Amron, joins Access Your Leadership to share his story and the leadership insights that allow him, his partner and their employees to thrive! Since launching the firm in 2008, Jeff and his partner, Brett Amron, have grown the firm to 25 employees and have a total of 6 partners at the firm. Last year, Hakim joined Jeff and Brett on their podcast, The Practice, and over time Hakim has had the privilege of seeing Jeff’s leadership in action. In this episode, Jeff kindly shares some details about what led him to co-founding his own firm with Brett and the mindset that was required to launch, lead and grow that firm. He talks about some of his approaches to leadership that allow not only him and his partner to be successful but also allow the lawyers and staff at their firm to feel seen, valued and heard as professionals and how developing his people has been one of the many reasons why Bast Amron has been able to attract/retain such great talent over the years. How does building a firm as a family contribute to employee well-being, success and loyalty? What are some of the most important factors to consider when deciding to partner with someone on a business venture? How do perseverance and confidence play into having the right mindset to start and run your own business? Why is your ability to ask for help and bring on talented staff so important early on (and at any time) in your entrepreneurial journey? Where does authenticity fit into launching and sustaining your own business with you at the helm? How does feedback support a leader’s vision and why is it so important to do more often than just one time a year during the annual review period? What’s the value of spending time doing regular 1:1 meetings with staff and team members as your firm/business grows? These are just a few of the questions discussed and answered in this amazing episode with Jeff Bast, who demonstrates what leading without ego really looks like. Jeff is also a dedicated husband and father and lover of the water and environment. He does open water swims regularly and is a staunch supporter of any and all efforts to protect and improve our environment. Enjoy this conversation with Jeff! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Jeff on LinkedInTo connect with Jeff and learn more about BastAmron visit https://www.bastamron.com/our-team/jeffrey-p-bast/To listen to Jeff and Brett’s podcast, The Practice, and the episode we recorded together click hereDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Check out these links!Miami Waterkeeper -

Send us Fan MailAl Kenny, an internationally known coach, joins Access Your Leadership to share his story and insights that he incorporates into his work with clients to help people achieve their goals and dreams without stress and pressure. Last year, Hakim had the opportunity to spend time with Al at a coaching intensive in Santa Monica, California, and that is where Al shared some of his experiences as a leader in the corporate world. In this episode, Al talks about his early professional years that ultimately led him to his corporate career and what he found when he learned about himself when he got there. He shares stories about various moments in his own life where he was faced with the choice about how to lead himself, his family and his team(s). In this conversation, Al offers up so many valuable lessons learned from his transformation from strong individual contributor, to “type A-driving” leader to emphatic and effective leader. How does vision play into how we lead ourselves and build our careers? What’s the mindset to strive for in order to achieve more freedom, ease and enjoyment than you could ever imagine in your career/life? What does it mean for a leader to "let go" and is okay not to always have the answers? How does our inner critic show up and what stories might it tell us leading up to having a conversation? Why might a leader purely focused on getting his team from A to B not be entirely effective? What about being a more aware leader contributes to better work-life harmony? How and why is humanity such a big part of you, and everyone around you, enjoying your leadership journey? What role does personal responsibility and self-leadership have in terms of becoming the leader you’re meant to be? These and so many other questions are addressed in this Part One episode with Al Kenny. Enjoy and stay tuned for Part Two coming soon! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Al Kenny on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedInTo connect with Al Kenny directly you can email him at [email protected]  Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailIn this short solo episode, Hakim reflects on his own start to 2024, the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday and how both of those relate to self-love or self-compassion. In this episode, he talks broadly about how the challenging start to the year made him feel about and care for himself. Hakim shares why Compassion is not only one of his 3 Cs in terms of coaching leaders (the other two being Clarity and Confidence), but also talks about how Compassion is one of his top 3 core values (the other two are Awareness and Joy). He explains the difference between empathy and compassion and why it’s so important to reflect on how we love ourselves, how we speak to ourselves and where that inner voice might come from. As a leader of big and small teams, international and domestic, Hakim has incorporated compassion into how he relates to his teams, direct reports, peers and organizational leaders colleagues. However, as can often be for many of us, showing ourselves that same sort of kindness, care, and compassion can be much more challenging. It’s important that we do as we position ourselves to most effectively lead ourselves and others, whether that be professionally or personally. Feedback (I want to hear from you):If you’re a senior leader, or even an aspiring leader, and you are interested in the ways you can get out of your head and not only improve your effectiveness as leader, but also love it at the same time, click here to book time for us to talk.You can also connect with Hakim at https://lakhdarcoaching.com/ Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders and teams in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailKim Auker, a Transformational Coach for revolutionary mothers, joins Access Your Leadership to share how deeply connected she is to supporting women (and men) who are juggling the roles of powerful parent and ambitious entrepreneur. In this episode, Kim talks about the power of desire and how what we personally want to create in our lives and in this world can be a drive for incredible success. She shares stories of her past where she felt powerless and how that impacted how she saw herself as a parent and entrepreneur. Kim talks about feeling and playing it safe and where she found herself playing in that space throughout her own career, before becoming a powerful coach. Does being a mother (or parent) prevent you from being a powerful creator? How does fear factor into how we identify what it is that we truly desire? How does being a mother/parent and ambitious business owner/professional provide fuel for excitement and motivation in all things in life? What does it feel like to identify as powerless and how can we notice that occurring in real-time? Why are our needs and our desires such an important part of regaining and operating from our truth, our power? How do external validation, rules and structure play into how we lead ourselves, our families and our business? How does a mother/parent juggle all the responsibilities they have while still honoring their own desires for themselves and their business? So much self-leadership is discussed in this episode and, whether you’re a parent or business owner or both or neither, you’ll want to hear Kim’s perspective on this topic! Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Kim Auker on Facebook and InstagramTo connect with Kim directly you can email her at [email protected] this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailNicole Miller is the Founder & CEO of WERRK Creative Brand Strategy, a strategic branding and marketing agency supporting businesses in brand awareness resulting in significant sales growth. Nicole joins Access Your Leadership to share her own story as well as her recent and exciting updates regarding her business and new personal/professional focus. She shares how these new amazing developments were the result of some not-so-amazing events that have occurred in her life recently and how your mindset, self-leadership and outlook have served her. Nicole shares insights from her second book that she’s currently working on and how her mother and Nicole’s own role as a mother has helped shape who and how she is today! What’s the relationship between self-awareness and self-leadership that Nicole has incorporated into her way of creating opportunities? What does 28 years of experience and working as an employee teach you about yourself that might prepare you for solo entrepreneurship? How important is it to surround yourself with the right network of people to build you up and support you? How are purpose and passion related and what does it mean (or feel like) to be working from your purpose? How does one create clarity around their purpose so that they live and breathe it every day? Where and how can we learn to get back up when we’ve been knocked down, and how do we prevent those obstacles from defining us? Where does self-talk play a role and what's the potential impact on success when there's negative self-talk? What does going out on your own mean to you as a parent, especially reflecting back onto your own childhood and influences? Nicole’s inspiring story is one of resilience, purpose, passion and authenticity. As she shared in the episode, “I get to be ME everyday” and I can certainly say that we’re all beneficiaries of that. Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Nicole on LinkedIn hereOr you can find her on Instagram hereTo learn more about WERRK Creative Brand Strategy click hereDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Send us Fan MailAida C. Rodriguez, CEDS, the CEO and Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer of Ascension Global Staffing and Executive Search, joins Access Your Leadership to share her amazing style of leadership that has allowed her to build a world-class team of professionals and a thriving business. In this episode, Aida talks about how her people truly are her company’s biggest asset. She talks about her early years working in the legal services industry and how a couple pivotal moves and opportunities taught her so much about what it meant to be a valued employee. Aida shares how her experiences along with her highly-developed sense of emotional intelligence has shaped her into the leader she is today. How important is it to make your employees feel seen, heard and valued through the way in which you lead? How does family play a role in building a strong, high-trust team? Why do the most effective leaders spend so much time building relationships and how does that feed into building trust within an organization? How can a leader focus so much time on the “soft skills” in support of building the business and how are they related? What is the value of diversity of thought and how does recognizing talent come into play when building the right team and culture? Is leading from the heart a real thing and why is love often a four-letter work when it comes to leadership? How important is listening not only to clients but to team members and how do you create a psychologically safe environment for regular feedback? There are so many gold nuggets in this conversation with Aida, that you’ll need to listen to really appreciate her authentic, driven and passionate approach to leadership. Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):You can connect with Aida Rodriguez at [email protected]  Or follow her on LinkedIn hereDid this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can hit me up on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoachingI’m always looking to connect with people who are passionate about leadership as well as companies who value and support strong leaders in their own organization. If that’s you or you know someone then drop me a line at [email protected] Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever else you may listen to your podcasts.Check out these links!Click here to learn more or get in touch with the amazing team at Ascension Global Staff and Executive Search