GrowthReady Podcast

𝑷𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕, 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆. - Kendall BreitmanIn this episode of the GrowthReady Podcast, Steve Mellor sits down with Kendall Breitman, former political journalist (NBC, Bloomberg) and now Head of Community at  @Riversidefm , to unpack the real story behind career pivots, personal reinvention, and building community that actually feels human.Kendall shares how she went from chasing a clear career trajectory to embracing a more open (and more honest) version of growth, one built on trust, adaptability, and the courage to choose what fulfills you now, not what you decided years ago.In this episode:▪️Hunger vs. capacity (and why both matter)▪️Leaving a “made it” career behind▪️Trusting yourself without needing certainty▪️How community is built through real conversations▪️Why overproduced brand content is fading▪️Kendall’s next edge: influence, visibility, and starting a podcast𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑲𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒍𝒍:LinkedIn: Kendall Breitman Facebook Group: Conversation Creators by Riverside Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

What if the thing holding you back isn’t a lack of expertise, but the fact that your voice hasn’t caught up to what you know?In this episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Dr. Leslie Gordon, a speech, voice, and accent expert who helps high-performing professionals speak with more confidence, presence, and impact. Leslie introduces the idea of the “growing edge,” a powerful replacement for the word “weakness,” and explains why real growth requires more than mindset. It requires action, repetition, awareness, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar territory.This conversation is for anyone who has ever left a meeting thinking, “I should have said something,” or who knows they have something valuable to contribute but struggles to make their voice match their expertise.Why “growing edge” is more useful than calling something a weakness  Why high performers struggle to speak up, even when they know their stuff  How self-evaluation can help growth or quietly block it  How to work with the inner critic using Leslie’s “name it to tame it” strategy  Why presence, breath, and body tension shape how your message lands  Why confidence is built through action, not simply something you either have or don’t haveConnect with Dr. Leslie Gordon:Website: https://www.leslie.gordon.speech/lesliegordonspeech.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

There’s a moment in the Tour de France most people miss. Not the sprint finish. Not the podium. Not the yellow jersey.It’s the mountain stage, where you realize the leader isn’t actually alone.We use that image to challenge a belief a lot of high performers quietly live by: self-sufficiency equals strength. It might be the very thing that helped you win early stages of growth… and the same thing that now limits what’s next.We explore why high performance isn’t just about endurance and capacity, it’s about exposure. Exposure to feedback, discomfort, new reflections, and the kind of community that forces you to practice who you’re becoming.What you’ll hear in this episodeWhy we confuse self-sufficiency with high performanceThe hidden cost of carrying pressure in isolationWhy growth requires exposure, not just effortWhat community gives you that a mirror can’tA better question than “How much can I handle?”The Tour de France lesson: nobody wins the mountain stages alone00:00 Why the mountain stage matters00:36 The leader is never really alone01:18 The hidden cost of carrying pressure in isolation02:22 When self-sufficiency starts limiting growth03:25 Growth requires exposure, not just endurance04:05 Why community matters04:47 Choosing a room that stretches you05:42 What community gives you that a mirror can’t06:18 What pro cyclists have to unlearn07:12 No one wins the mountain stages alone08:03 A better question for high performers08:42 You might win one stage alone09:33 Final reflection and share the episode09:51 OutroIf this episode hit, share it with one leader who’s been carrying too much alone. A simple send could be the support they didn’t know they needed.Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

A lot of high-performers know how to win, but far fewer know how to use failure well. And when life gets uncomfortable, the instinct is often to avoid it, rush past it, or pretend it didn’t mean anything.My guest today, Leanda Cave, is a four-time world champion triathlete who’s lived through elite success, personal setbacks, major transition, and a powerful season of self-discovery beyond sport.In this episode, you’ll hear how failure can become one of the greatest forces for growth, why awareness changes everything, and how to redefine high performance in a way that actually serves your life long term.We talk about setbacks, discomfort, relationships, identity, longevity, purpose, and what it looks like to keep evolving when your next chapter asks something different from you.Why being growth ready means being prepared to failHow failure can become a gateway instead of a stopping pointThe difference between winning the race and winning the journeyWhy comfort can quietly block growthLearning through relationships, patterns, and self-awarenessThe role of awareness in transformationReframing high performance as longevityHealth as a long-term leadership strategyPurpose, philanthropy, and life after elite sportBuilding a meaningful next chapter beyond one identity or laneLinks and resources mentionedInstagram: @leandacaveInstagram: @leandacavecoachingBest BuddiesTEDx talk: Failure Is the Force That Shapes YouLeanda website: www.leandacave.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

What does it really mean to be Growth Ready?In this episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Joe Smarro for a deeply honest conversation about identity, self-awareness, and the cost of living for everyone else. Joe shares why growth starts with curiosity, why so much of our identity is inherited rather than chosen, and why external validation keeps so many high-performers stuck. Together, they explore the tension between the person we present to the world and the person we sit with in private, and how closing that gap can transform the way we lead, live, and grow.About the guest: Joe Smarro is a speaker, trainer, former Marine, and former police officer who now leads SolutionPoint+, where he and his team teach human behavior, de-escalation, wellness, resilience, and emotional intelligence.Key takeaways:What it means to be “Growth Ready”Curiosity, self-awareness, and introspectionIdentity vs. titles and external validationThe “representative self” vs. the private selfWhy high-performers get stuck in fear and safetyThe cost of denying yourselfBoundaries, selfishness, and self-worthTherapy, healing, and emotional intelligenceThe obituary exercise and legacyAligning your life with what matters mostConnect with Joe SmarroSolutionPoint+ websiteJoe Smarro’s books on AmazonErnie & Joe: Crisis Cops on HBOInstagramLinkedInFacebookSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

In this episode, Steve sits down with Samara Bay to unpack what it really means to be “ready” when the stakes are high. Together, they explore the connection between body, mind, and communication—and why so many high-performers flatten their presence by trying to hide fear instead of working with it.Samara explains how public speaking is really about power, permission, and presence. She shares why “readiness” is more of a body-based practice than a mental state, how love-based thinking can shift us out of fight-or-flight, and why the warm-up before any important conversation may be the real work.Key Takeaways:Why readiness is more physical than mentalThe role of body awareness in communicationPublic speaking as a reflection of power and self-trustHow fear creates a flattened version of usWhy naming what’s happening in the room builds trustThe shift from fear-based thinking to love-based communicationSocial evaluative threat and the modern version of fight-or-flightWhy context matters in every communication momentThe importance of imagination, curiosity, and play in leadershipWhy warm-ups and rituals matter before big momentsMissed opportunity as the hidden cost of poor communicationLinks and Resources MentionedPermission Inc. — permissioninc.coPermissionaries newsletter — available via Samara’s websitePermission to Speak by Samara BayUpcoming TEDx talk — Samara said it will be shared on her website once releasedSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Megan Torrance is a workplace learning and development leader who helps organizations create better systems for growth, performance, and skill development. In this conversation, she brings together practical insight from her work in learning design, her perspective on AI as an augmentation tool, and her own lived experience as an athlete, coach-supported leader, and endurance hiker.About the episode: In this episode, Steve sits down with Megan Torrance to unpack what it really means to be growth ready. Megan reframes growth as what we learn from a leap, not just the leap itself, and explains why readiness is less about feeling fully prepared and more about having the mindset, tools, support, and willingness to step into the next challenge anyway.Megan shares how real growth happens when people are clear on the goal, supported with the right systems, and willing to reflect in the middle of discomfort.Key topics and themes discussedWhat “growth ready” really meansWhy growth comes from learning through the leapThe difference between being a teacher and teachingWhy workplace learning should focus on performance, not completionReflection as a critical part of the learning loopThe role of AI in personalized learning and leadership developmentReadiness, uncertainty, and the “gulp” before the next challengeBuilding systems that make the next right action easierCuriosity as a driver of long-term growthExpanding capacity inside and outside of workLessons from ice hockey, coaching, and endurance hikingResources mentionedMegan Torrance on LinkedInTorrance Learning — torrancelearning.comAI Implementation Guide for L&D by Megan TorranceKhan AcademyMagicSchoolSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Meghan Popoleo is the President of The O’Connor Group, where she has spent the last decade helping organizations grow through strong people strategy, culture, and leadership. She came into the business from the nonprofit world, openly admits she did not start out loving HR, and has grown into a values-driven leader known for vulnerability, execution, collaboration, and people-first leadership.About the episode: In this conversation, Steve sits down with Meghan to unpack what it really means to be “growth ready.” Megan shares why vulnerability is not weakness, but a leadership advantage, especially when you’re scaling a company, building culture, navigating succession, leading hard conversations, and raising a family at the same time. For founders, executives, and high-performers, this episode is a practical reminder that sustainable growth starts with values, trust, and the courage to ask for help.Key Takeaways:Why vulnerability is essential for personal and professional growthMegan’s journey from nonprofit leadership into HR and people operationsThe partnership between Megan and founder Marsha O’ConnorHow hard conversations strengthen leadership tandemsProtecting company culture during growthWhy “teammate” matters more than “employee”Women in leadership, motherhood, and asking for helpThe tension between saying yes, learning fast, and avoiding overwhelmBuilding new service lines without losing core valuesWhy relationships are a true growth leverCreating communities that support female leaders and entrepreneursLinks and resources mentioned:The O’Connor Group: www.tocgrp.comThe O’Connor Group on LinkedIn57th Street Partners Shadow HerSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Raymond Lee is the founder of CareerMinds, a virtual outplacement and leadership development company he started in 2008. After years of building the business, Raymond went through a deep season of self-reflection in late 2021 that reshaped how he saw leadership, identity, and growth. He later sold CareerMinds and stepped into a new chapter with even greater clarity around impact, authenticity, and helping people find work that truly aligns with who they are. He’s also the host of the Clocking Out podcast and author of the book Clocking Out.About the Episode: In this conversation, Steve Mellor sits down with Raymond Lee for a powerful discussion on what it really means to be growth ready. Raymond shares why authenticity became the turning point in his life, how curiosity helped him move through fear, and why so many high-performers stay stuck in careers that look successful on the outside but feel misaligned on the inside.Key Takeaways:What “growth ready” means through the lens of authenticityWhy authenticity builds trust, connection, and leadership impactRaymond’s identity shift in December 2021Curiosity as a companion to authentic growthFear of change vs. the pain of staying the sameThe story behind the Clocking Out podcastRaymond’s mother’s career change into archaeology at age 50Why meaningful change starts with small steps“Lead with yes” as a practical mindset for reinventionAsking better questions: What excites me? What brings value?Using your story to help others find their true pathResources:CareerMindsClocking Out podcastClocking Out book by Raymond LeeFinding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David KesslerRaymond Lee on LinkedInSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

This special archive episode takes us back to summer 2020, when Steve Mellor interviewed Alison Hadden for his Women Changing the World series. What he only learned afterward was that Alison had found out just one day earlier that her cancer had returned and was terminal. She never mentioned it during the conversation. Instead, she spoke with clarity, strength, and intention about leadership, resilience, and living like there is no time to waste.Alison passed away in January 2022, but her message continues to inspire anyone seeking to live with more purpose, courage, and gratitude.About the Guest: Alison Hadden was a sales and marketing leader, athlete, and founder of the No Time to Waste Project. She built her career at high-growth companies including Active, Glassdoor, and Mindbody, and became known for her energy, leadership, and purpose-driven approach to life. After facing cancer, she turned her experience into a mission to help others live with greater gratitude, joy, and urgency.About the EpisodeSteve revisits a conversation first released when the podcast was still called Career Competitor. Part of the Women Changing the World series, this interview stands out for Alison’s remarkable presence and perspective in the face of devastating news.Rather than focusing on her diagnosis, Alison shared a message that still resonates: live with intention, lead with courage, and don’t waste time on what doesn’t matter.Key Takeaways:Leadership through adversityThe athlete mindset in business and lifeGrit, resilience, and perspectiveCancer, identity, and transformationGratitude, joy, and human connectionLiving with urgency and intentionLinks and ResourcesNo Time to Waste Projectnotimetowasteproject.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Most high performers chase ceilings: bigger goals, more revenue, bigger stages. Steve argues that what actually determines whether you feel steady in the moments that matter is your floor, your daily standards, mindset, and behaviors when no one is watching. He breaks down how “growth resistance” shows up subtly (protecting identity, reputation, competence), and why the path forward isn’t hype or intensity… it’s alignment.Key takeaways:Goals as “ceilings” vs. standards as your “floor”Why pressure exposes weak foundations (even when you look prepared)Effort vs. standards: the difference between looking ready and being ready“Growth resistant” behavior: protecting identity after failureGrowth resilience: treating failure as data and adjusting standardsMicrosoft / Satya Nadella “learn-it-all vs know-it-all” as a standards shiftAlignment over intensity: raising your floor to match rising stakesReflection prompt: “What is my floor right now—and is it built for what I’m pursuing?”Links & resources mentionedSatya Nadella / Microsoft culture shift (learn-it-alls vs know-it-alls)Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

If you’re a high performer, leader, or founder… chances are your calendar is stacked, your brain is overloaded, and you’re trying to ‘push through’ like that’s the job.Today’s guest, Clint Rahe, former Royal Air Force PTI turned executive coach and author of The Cognitive Athleteworks with C-suite leaders who should be in their peak years… but instead are burnt out, exhausted, and running on empty.In this episode, you’ll learn how to sustain high performance without paying for it with your health, your focus, or your family.We’re breaking down cognitive periodizationhow to create seasons in business how to use micro-recovery to reduce stress between meetings, how to protect deep work, and how to set boundaries that actually stick. Key takeaways-Knowledge workers as cognitive athletes (and why overload kills learning)-Burnout at the top: why leaders hit their “peak years” exhausted-Cognitive periodization: creating “seasons” in business where none exist-Recovery that actually works (micro-breaks, active recovery, energy resets)-The “letdown effect” (why people get sick right after pressure ends)-Energy management vs. time management-Saying no strategically (deep work vs shallow work)-Practical leadership habits: 15-minute daily planning + end-of-day review-Meeting hygiene: 25-min meetings, breaks, and better transitions-Circadian rhythms + scheduling work that fits your energyLinks & resources mentioned-Clint’s website: thecognitiveathlete.com.au-Clint on LinkedIn (best place to connect)-Clint’s weekly newsletter (Wednesdays)Clint’s podcast (short episodes, Mondays)-Book: The Cognitive Athlete (US availability mentioned as Feb 27 on Amazon)-Microsoft Human Factors Lab research mentioned (EEG + breaks between meetings)-Amazon meeting practice referenced (reading memo at start)#GrowthReady #HighPerformance #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoach #BurnoutRecovery #ProductivityHacks Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Betsy Cerulo is a seasoned entrepreneur, federal contractor, and accessibility advocate with over 36 years of leadership experience. She is the CEO of an organization specializing in accessibility staffing and services, supporting blind, deaf, and neurodivergent communities. Betsy is also an author, mentor, and champion for heart-centered leadership grounded in truth, accountability, and compassion.In this powerful GrowthReady conversation, Steve Mellor welcomes back Betsy Cerulo to explore what it really means to be growth ready in today’s volatile, uncertain environment.Together, they unpack why truth, awareness, and flexibility are non-negotiable leadership skills, how to lead people through uncertainty without false reassurance, and why heart-centered leadership doesn’t mean avoiding hard conversations. Betsy also shares lessons from building a 36-year business, launching a complementary accessibility technology venture, and investing in long-term trust instead of chasing quick wins.This episode is a masterclass in earned confidence, ethical leadership, and sustainable growth.Key Takeaways:What it truly means to be growth readyTruth as a leadership practice (not a personality trait)Heart-centered leadership vs. “kumbaya leadership”Leading teams through uncertainty and fearAccountability, boundaries, and compassionNavigating unknowns without false certaintyBuilding trust and “reserves” over decadesWhy patience beats “get rich quick” thinkingIntentional networking for introverted leadersAccessibility, advocacy, and inclusive leadershipSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Luke DePron is a health and performance coach and the founder of The Fitment Project, where he helps high-performing men reclaim their health, energy, and confidence without extreme fitness tactics or unrealistic routines. Luke is known for his pragmatic, psychology-first approach to fitness helping clients build identity-based habits, minimum effective standards, and sustainable systems that integrate seamlessly into real life, careers, and family responsibilities.About the Episode: In this episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Luke DePron to unpack why most driven professionals fail at health and how to finally make it stick. Luke explains why success isn’t about motivation, 30-day challenges, or doing more but about setting guaranteed minimum standards, upgrading identity, and respecting the seasons of life you’re actually in.They dive deep into how confidence is built through competence, why unrealistic goals quietly destroy self-belief, and how leaders can integrate fitness into their lives without sacrificing family, performance, or sanity. This conversation reframes health not as another pressure but as the foundation that unlocks the next level of leadership and performance.Takeaways:Building confidence through competence, not motivationThe power of guaranteed minimum standardsBeginner mindset and lowering the barrier to entryWhy “doing more” often backfires for high performersIdentity-based decision making (Fit Dad, Fit Leader)Avoiding the all-or-nothing fitness trapIntegrating health into real life, travel, and familySeasons of life and sustainable performanceHealth as the foundation of elite leadershipLong-term systems vs short-term intensityResources MentionedThe Fitment Project – https://fitmentproject.comLuke DePron on LinkedIn (mentioned as primary social platform)Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Dr. Alexa D’Agostino is a “doctor of marketing” and founder/operator who’s built and scaled multiple businesses. She’s known for blending sharp performance marketing thinking with operational reality, systems, metrics, team structure, and the mindset required to scale without breaking. She also runs an invite-only mastermind built around proximity to high-level operators and coaches.About the episode: Most leaders say they want growth, more revenue, more clients, more recognition but Dr. Alexa D’Agostino calls out the uncomfortable truth: many businesses aren’t growth ready… they’re chaos ready. In this conversation, Steve and Alexa unpack what “growth ready” really means when pressure hits: clean systems, clear roles, scalable offers, and metrics that matter.Key topics:“Growth ready” vs. “chaos ready” (and why most businesses are the latter)Why scaling exposes problems instead of fixing themThe non-negotiables: systems, lanes, people, and a scalable offerMetrics that matter (CPA, LTV) vs. vanity metrics (likes/followers)Delegation, automation, and building a machine that works without youFailure: not the fear of it, but the avoidance of what you already know must changeCuriosity as interrogation: using fear as dataMindset as an operating system and why it must be upgradedThe role of environment: outgrowing people, protecting energy, and choosing alignmentIntegrity under pressure: the gap between stated values and calendar realityLinks and resources mentionedDr. Alexa D’Agostino: https://alexadagostino.com/Social handle mentioned: “Dr. Alexa D’Agostino” (on most platforms)Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Rebecca Mountain is a high-performance coach, international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of the Mountain Method. With an electrifying story of transformation, from growing up in a cult to becoming a leader in personal development, Rebecca helps people eliminate the “knowing-doing gap” so they can unlock success in work, life, and love.Episode Summary: Rebecca shares her journey from escaping a cult to becoming a renowned coach and author. Together, they unpack the myth of “readiness,” how to turn excuses into launch pads, and the practical frameworks Rebecca uses to help clients bridge the gap between knowing and doing. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, intentionality, and building self-trust, packed with actionable insights for leaders, high performers, and anyone facing big changes.Key Topics DiscussedThe myth of “readiness” and why you’re never truly readyRebecca’s story: leaving a cult and rebuilding from scratchExcuses vs. launch pads: using adversity as fuelThe power of self-trust and finding your “why”Frameworks for high performance: beliefs, decisive action, habitsThe knowing-doing gap and how to close itEmotional resilience and the real role of emotions in leadershipPractical strategies to move from thought to actionLinks & Resources MentionedRebecca’s websiteFollow Rebecca on socials: @bexmountainThe Mountain Method: Learn more about her 100 Days to Peak Performance programBrendan Burchard's High Performance Habits (referenced framework)#GrowthMindset #HighPerformance #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalGrowth #SelfTrustSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Alan Franks is a financial planner, entrepreneur, speaker, and the author of Empowered Money. With 15+ years of experience helping individuals align their finances with their fullest lives, Alan’s obsession is clear: helping people take ownership of their money so they can show up more fully in every other part of life. His approach fuses strategy, psychology, and leadership, making him not just a financial advisor, but a true change agent.Episode Summary: In this episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Alan Franks to kick off the year with a conversation that challenges everything you thought you knew about goal-setting, obsession, and high performance. They explore how true growth doesn’t start with external goals, it starts with internal alignment and personal integrity.Key Topics & Takeaways:Obsession vs. Goals: Why real results require focusThe role of personal integrity in performanceFinancial planning as a tool for freedom, not restrictionHow to lead even if you're not in a “leadership” roleThe importance of tracking and manual awarenessCreating internal alignment to prepare for external successEmbracing playfulness amidst high performance cultureBuilding systems that allow space, health, and joyLinks & Resources MentionedAlan’s book: Empowered-Money.comFree Financial Plan: Available via Empowered-Money.comBusiness Valuation Tool: TheBusinessPlanningInstitute.comBook Mentioned: The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. WattlesBook Mentioned: The Gap and the Gain by Dan SullivanBook Mentioned: The One Thing by Gary KellerMovie Referenced: City SlickersSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Benedict Beaumont is a breathwork facilitator, transformational teacher, and guide who helps high-performers reconnect with their inner wisdom, emotional clarity, and personal potential, all through the accessible yet powerful practice of breathwork. Benedict’s journey spans childhood asthma, personal resistance, deep self-discovery, and an eventual awakening through breath practice. Today, his teachings integrate somatic experience with spiritual grounding, making breathwork practical for leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday humans seeking direction, healing, and growth.In this deeply experiential conversation, Steve and Benedict explore how breathwork can reveal clarity, unlock inner strength, and reconnect us to the parts of ourselves we often neglect. Benedict shares his personal story — from asthma and avoidance to transformation and purpose — and guides listeners through a powerful breathwork session designed to slow the mind, heighten awareness, and illuminate the decisions we’ve been wrestling with.Key Topics & ThemesThe link between how we breathe and how we show up in life.Why high-performers resist what’s best for them — and how to overcome it.Breathwork as a tool for decision-making clarity.How childhood experiences shape adult resistance and trust.The relationship between spirituality, inner wisdom, and breath.Why neglecting your relationship with yourself has profound consequences.The “journey from the head to the heart” — and how breath bridges the gap.How breathwork simplifies what we tend to complicate.Building trust with yourself, the universe, God, or whatever you believe in.Resources MentionedBenedict Beaumont’s Breathwork Trainings & ResourcesBreathwork practice guidelines mentioned during the sessionSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Pat Fellows is an entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and co-founder of Fresh Junkie Racing, one of the leading endurance event organizations in the southeastern United States. With decades of experience in coaching, hospitality, music, and large-scale race production—including the iconic Louisiana Marathon—Pat is known for his relentless “say yes and figure it out” mindset. His story is a masterclass in belief, resilience, and execution without certainty.About the Episode: This milestone 300th episode of the GrowthReady Podcast is an unfiltered, in-person conversation between Steve Mellor and longtime friend Pat Fellows.Together, they unpack what it actually means to be growth ready—especially when there’s no proof, no roadmap, and plenty of reasons to say no. From building massive endurance events with zero precedent to swimming 34 miles without ever questioning if it was possible, Pat shares how belief is formed through action, effort, and conviction—not confidence or certainty.This episode is for leaders, entrepreneurs, and high-performers who feel stuck waiting for permission, clarity, or evidence before taking the next step.Key Topics & ThemesWhat it really means to be Growth ReadyThe power of a “yes-first” mindsetBelief built through capability and effort, not outcomesWhy waiting for proof keeps people stuckSaying yes when everything tells you noLeading through uncertainty and self-doubtMental toughness, depression, and momentumWhy execution beats confidence every timeHow high-performers get “unstuck”Reframing fear as fuelResources MentionedFresh Junkie RacingLouisiana MarathonEndurance training & event production insightsSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest : Justin Burgess is a Louisiana-based insurance entrepreneur, health advocate, and rising voice in the fitness and performance world. After spending years stuck in mediocrity, overweight, unhealthy, and settling for a corporate life, Justin radically transformed his body, mindset, and career. He lost 60 pounds, rebuilt his confidence, and launched his own brokerage with a mission built on transparency, effort, and people over profits.Episode Summary: In this energizing, relatable conversation, Steve Mellor sits down with insurance entrepreneur and fitness-driven high performer Justin Burgess to unpack what personal growth really looks like when you decide you've had enough of your own excuses.Justin shares the story of going from complacent and unhealthy to losing 60 pounds, rebuilding his confidence, launching his own business, and reshaping his entire identity as a leader, father, and husband. He breaks down the power of community, discipline, transparency, and choosing to “bet on yourself”, even when doubt follows you into every new opportunity.Key Takeaways:The moment Justin realized he was living below his potentialLosing 60 pounds and rebuilding confidenceHow fitness unlocked growth in business and relationshipsCommunity, vulnerability, and doing hard things with othersThe patience required in relationship-driven industriesBuilding a personal brand with transparencyThe “people over profits” philosophyBetting on yourself and saying yes before you’re readyLinks & Resources MentionedJustin Burgess — LinkedInJustin’s Socials: TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, FacebookSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Tim Cakir is the Founder of AI Operator and a seasoned growth leader with over a decade of experience spanning growth marketing, executive leadership, and AI enablement. Formerly a CEO leading teams of 100+ people, Tim now focuses on helping companies and individuals adopt an AI-first mindset rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and intentional decision-making. He’s also a Growth Mentor, global operator, and vocal advocate for navigating permanent change with love over fear.About the Episode: In this episode of the GrowthReady Podcast, Steve Mellor sits down with Tim Cakir to explore what it truly means to be growth ready in an era of permanent change, especially as AI continues to reshape how we work, think, and lead.Key Takeaways:What “permanent change” really means in the AI eraGrowth mindset vs. fixed mindset in high performersCuriosity as a leadership advantageLove vs. fear as a decision-making frameworkWhy experimentation beats perfectionDecision journals and intentional decision-makingAvoiding consumption paralysis (consume → create)Using AI to remove friction and reclaim focusMental health, panic attacks, and presenceLeading yourself before leading othersLinks & Resources MentionedAI OperatorThe Four Agreements by Don Miguel RuizTools referenced: ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, voice notes, AI agentsSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Sardor Umrdinov is a serial entrepreneur, founder, and ecosystem builder who went from growing up in Uzbekistan without basic resources — including a refrigerator — to running one of the largest appliance repair companies in the U.S., plus a rapidly scaling multi-business ecosystem.Sardor’s story is defined by relentless curiosity, extreme accountability, and a willingness to enter every new room before he feels ready. He’s a master of creating scalable structures, building internal accountability systems, and empowering teams to solve problems at the highest level. He hosts the Founder to Founder podcast, interviewing leaders building $100M–$1B companies.Episode Summary: In this powerful conversation, Steve Mellor and serial entrepreneur Sardor Umrdinov break down the mindset, discipline, and structure required to scale yourself and your business far beyond what you think you’re capable of.Sardor shares how growing up with constant discomfort — new languages, new environments, new failures — taught him to build readiness through action, not delay. He explains how he built an accountability “ecosystem,” why success requires a 360° support system, and how he scaled from technician to industry leader by solving bigger and bigger problems.This episode is a masterclass in growth for founders, leaders, and high performers who want to build momentum, expand capacity, and craft a structure that makes success inevitable.Key Takeaways:Why readiness is built through action, not preparationSardor’s childhood in Uzbekistan & early resilienceLeaving comfort zones repeatedly to develop identityBreaking down long-term goals into daily disciplineBuilding a 360° ecosystem of accountabilityHow internal “micro-boards” strengthen company growthThe 1–3–1 problem-solving rule for teamsWhy entrepreneurs should love big problemsBringing spouses into long-term vision planningBuilding companies designed to last 300 yearsCuriosity as a superpower in the AI eraSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Dr. John A. King is a poet, author of 27 books, speaker, former executive, and trauma-focused performance strategist who helps high-achieving leaders confront the internal battles they’ve spent a lifetime avoiding. Known for his blunt honesty, deep compassion, and the Finnish concept of sisu—“white-knuckled courage in the face of overwhelming odds”—John teaches others how to build “relentless resilience” from the inside out. His upcoming fiction thriller Sins of the Father continues his mission of transforming pain into purposeful creative work.Episode Summary: In this raw, deeply human conversation, Steve Mellor sits down with Dr. John A. King to explore the real meaning of growth: facing yourself. Not the polished, curated, high-performance version of yourself — but the unfiltered, uncomfortable truth you’ve avoided for years.John shares the moment his past crashed into his present (“Johnageddon”), how he rebuilt his identity from the inside out, and why most people never stop long enough to actually ask: Who am I? And what do I truly want?From trauma, resilience, morning routines, authenticity, performance myths, and redefining success, this episode is part gut punch, part wake-up call — especially for leaders who want to grow without losing themselves.Takeaways:The real meaning of relentless resilience and sisuWhy men struggle to confront their internal worldThe myth of the “performance mindset” industryAuthenticity vs. living from the outside inHow trauma masquerades as drive and ambitionThe hidden cost of success without self-awarenessBuilding rules & habits that stabilize your lifeWhy rejection doesn’t sting when you’re at peace with yourselfLetting your past refine you — not define youThe daily work of becoming someone you actually enjoy being withLinks & Resources MentionedDr. John A. King — Website: https://drjohnaking.comMindFire Challenge (Free 5–6 Week Program)Social: @drjohnakingSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Jen Mueller is a veteran sports broadcaster with more than 20 years on NFL and MLB sidelines, including as the longtime team reporter for the Seattle Seahawks. She’s known for her mastery of strategic communication, her ability to build trust in seconds inside high-stakes locker rooms, and her signature method of crafting powerful, specific questions that unlock honest, meaningful conversations. Through her platform Talk Sporty to Me, Jen teaches leaders, teams, and high performers how to communicate with the confidence, clarity, and intentionality of elite athletes.About the episode: In this GrowthReady conversation, Jen Mueller pulls back the curtain on what 25 years inside professional locker rooms taught her about confidence, communication, and high performance. She and Steve explore how leaders can ask better questions, stack daily wins, build trust quickly, and show up intentionally, even when you feel unprepared or overwhelmed.Jen shares her “bubble gum moments,” her 60–90-second rule for meaningful conversations, and the surprising mindset shift that helped her grow in an environment that wasn’t always welcoming. This episode will resonate with anyone navigating discomfort, wanting to communicate with more impact, or trying to build confidence day by day.Takeaways: Why not having all the answers is key to growthHow Jen builds trust with elite athletes in under 90 secondsThe power of specific questions vs. broad open-ended onesHow to journal like a high performer using Jen’s 5 post-game categories“Bubble gum moments”, stacking small intentional winsUsing time as your ultimate performance metricBuilding confidence before opportunities arriveHow leaders can communicate like pro athletesPreparing for moments long before anyone is watchingOwning your voice and not opting out of conversationsLinks and Resources:Talk Sporty To MeJen Mueller on social: @TalkSportyToMeJen Mueller on LinkedIn: Jen Mueller (Talk Sporty To Me)Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Paul Davis is a business strategist, intuitive consultant, author, and expert in aligning leaders with their unconscious blueprint to unlock purpose, direction, and fulfillment. With decades of experience turning companies around and guiding high-performers toward meaningful clarity, Paul blends business acumen with deep intuitive insight to help people uncover who they truly are and what they are meant to do.About the episode: In this powerful conversation, Paul Davis takes us far deeper than traditional conversations about “purpose” and “passion.” He explains why so many leaders unknowingly pursue the wrong goals, repeat the same unfulfilling cycles, and operate on beliefs that work against them. Paul breaks down how intuition, often ignored or misunderstood, is actually the key to discovering our unconscious blueprint and uncovering what we’re truly here to do.Together, we explore how to align with authenticity, why hunger is the RESULT of inner work (not the starting point), and how high performers can finally find clarity that sticks.Takeaways:Why hunger is a byproduct of clarity, not the starting pointThe difference between passion, purpose, and your unconscious “quest”How intuition actually works, and why most people misinterpret itThe role of beliefs and how they quietly limit successHow to sense the difference between intuition and rational thinkingWhy following what “everyone else is doing” leads to burnout and misalignmentAuthenticity as expressing your “genius oneness” rather than mimicking othersHow business owners can build differently by trusting their intuitive blueprintThe value of handwriting, meditation, and self-reflection in unlocking insightResources Mentioned:Paul’s website - https://davisbusinessconsultants.com/Paul’s books - https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Snakes-Ladders-Game-Life-ebook/dp/B0FXS3HSS7Reference to Les BrownSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the guest: Lane Kawaoka is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and founder of The Wealth Elevator, a platform dedicated to helping high-net-worth individuals and business owners move beyond traditional investing. A former engineer turned full-time investor, Lane has built a multimillion-dollar portfolio through alternative investments and has built a thriving community that connects accredited investors to real opportunities.About the episode: In this episode of GrowthReady, host Steve Mellor sits down with Lane Kawaoka, a former engineer who traded his stable career for financial freedom through smart investing and community building. Lane shares his journey from buying his first rental property in 2009 to now leading a network of accredited investors and entrepreneurs focused on growing wealth outside the traditional stock market.You’ll hear Lane’s insights on the internal vs. external factors that drive growth, why curiosity and humility matter more than ever in business, and how community, not isolation, is the ultimate currency of the wealthy. This conversation is packed with practical mindset shifts for high performers looking to scale not just their income, but their impact.Takeaways:How to know when it’s time to change what got you hereWhy curiosity is the secret growth advantage for leadersThe importance of community and structured connectionHow Lane transitioned from engineer to full-time entrepreneurThe difference between external market shifts and internal growthThe “wealth elevator” framework for building true financial freedomWhy social relationships, not money, are the real currency of successHow to stay grounded while scaling to 8 figures and beyondConnect with Lane:Lane’s Book: The Wealth Elevator – Available on AmazonLane’s Podcast: The Wealth ElevatorSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Most leaders set goals that feel safe, but safe goals don’t create transformation.In this episode, Dr. Nona Djavid shares how to rewire your brain, expand your identity, and design a vision so bold it scares you, then make that vision feel safe enough to live.We break down her 4-step framework for unreasonable growth, the neuroscience behind identity change, and how to become the person your next chapter requires.About the Guest: Dr. Nona Djavid is a neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and mindset strategist helping high-performing leaders and business owners design “unreasonable” visions and scale their results without burnout. Through her Unreasonable Method™ and neuroscience-backed frameworks, she teaches individuals to expand their identity, align behaviors, and achieve quantum leaps in life and business.About the Episode: In this GrowthReady episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Dr. Nona Djavid to explore how to go beyond SMART goals and design the life you truly want by thinking, and being bigger. Nona shares her four-step framework for turning “unreasonable” visions into grounded realities, explaining how our nervous system, identity, and behaviors all shape what we believe is possible.This episode unpacks the neuroscience behind change, the difference between realistic and transformative goals, and why your current identity might be holding you back from the future you’re capable of creating.The 3 types of goals: SMART, Inspired, and UnreasonableWhy your nervous system resists big goals (and how to reprogram it)The science of identity expansionThe role of embodiment in achieving successBalancing safety and stretch in your visionWhy behavior consistency starts with who you believe you areHow to set goals that pull you forward instead of pushing you to burnoutLinks & Resources MentionedConnect with Dr. Nona Djavid on Instagram: @drnonadjavidWatch Dr. Nona’s free 90-minute Quantum Leap Workshop (DM her “Quantum Leap” on Instagram to get the link)Book Recommendation: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Anya Cheng is the Founder and CEO of Taelor, a leading men's clothing subscription service that provides personal styling and curated rentals, powered by AI. A Girls in Tech 40 Under 40 honoree, she previously led eCommerce and digital innovation teams at Meta, eBay, Target, and McDonald's. Taelor’s mission is to help people dress up to achieve their goals, whether it's for a job interview, date night, or big presentation, because looking good shouldn’t be a barrier to success.About the Episode: In this episode, host Steve Mellor talks with Anya Cheng about her leap from corporate exec to founder of Taelor.AI. She shares how she overcame imposter syndrome, bootstrapped with limited resources, and turned repeated “no’s” into millions in funding.If you’re building something big and feeling unseen, this one’s for you.Takeaways:From imposter syndrome to self-beliefShifting from employee to entrepreneur mindsetGrowing with limited resourcesTurning rejection into opportunityTaelor.AI: using AI to boost confidenceNetworking through loose tiesCircular fashion & sustainable techRedefining success on your own termsExperience effortless style with rental and personal styling services:Taelor: Get 25% OFF your first month of men's clothing subscription.Use code: PODCAST25Sign up at: https://taelor.style/pages/membershipArmoire: Get 50% OFF your first month of women's clothing subscription.Use code: ArmoirexTaelorSign up at: https://www.armoire.style/refer/ArmoirexTaelorGive the gift of time, convenience, and effortless style:Taelor Gift Cards: Get 10% OFFUse code: PODCASTGIFTPurchase at: https://taelor.style/products/menswear-rental-gift-cardSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Ever feel like no matter how much you achieve, it’s still not enough? Like the goalposts keep moving and the pressure to look successful is crushing the joy of actually being successful?Mitch Matthews is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and success coach who helps people dream bigger, think better, and do more of what they’re built to do. Through his coaching programs and top-ranked Dream Think Do podcast, Mitch empowers leaders and entrepreneurs to overcome limiting beliefs, build intentional habits, and lead with courage and authenticity.In this conversation, Steve sits down with Mitch Matthews to explore one of the biggest challenges high-achievers face: perfectionism.They unpack how the constant drive to get it right often robs us of peace, creativity, and real growth. Mitch shares his personal journey from corporate success to coaching freedom, revealing how embracing imperfection not only changed his work, but his life.Together, they dive into actionable tools for shifting your mindset from performance to purpose, building confidence that isn’t tied to results, and learning how to lead yourself (and others) through seasons of uncertainty and self-doubt.If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own standards, this episode is your permission slip to redefine success on your terms.Key TopicsThe hidden cost of perfectionism in leadership and entrepreneurshipHow to turn pressure into purposeThe power of curiosity in breaking the perfection cycleRedefining success beyond achievementBuilding emotional awareness and resilienceHow to coach yourself out of performance-driven burnoutThe difference between excellence and perfectionReal tools to reconnect with creativity and authenticityLinks & Resources MentionedMitch Matthews’ WebsiteDream Think Do Podcast: Listen HereSteve Mellor’s WebsiteBook Mentioned: Dream Job: Redefined by Mitch Matthews#GrowthReadyPodcast #LeSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Ever feel like you’re just treading water, trying to grow, lead, and live with purpose, but never quite feeling in control?Today’s guest, Mike Milligan, grew up in extreme poverty, endured personal tragedy, and still built a thriving multi–seven-figure business while living life on his own terms. His story of resilience and intentional living is a masterclass in turning adversity into fuel.About the Guest: Mike Milligan, CFP® is a financial educator, author, and founder of One Oak Financial (“One of a Kind Financial”). A North Carolina native who overcame poverty and personal loss, Mike has dedicated his career to helping others live unique, purposeful lives through personalized financial planning. He also teaches financial literacy at Old Dominion University and is the author of The One of a Kind Financial Plan.About the Episode: In this episode, Steve Mellor sits down with Mike Milligan to discuss what it really means to live an exceptional life. From growing up in poverty to leading a multi–seven-figure business, Mike shares how defining his mission,“Be one of a kind and never miss a moment”, has transformed the way he leads, works, and lives.They explore why you must put value on your time, how to say no with purpose, and why being “selfish” might be the key to serving others better.What it means to be “growth-ready”How tragedy can inspire transformationWhy saying “no” more often can lead to freedomThe illusion of work-life balance vs. being exceptional at bothProtecting your time as if it were moneyCreating personal mission statements that drive focus and clarityDaily micro-wins and how to structure your mornings for successRedefining risk and legacy through intentional livingLinks & ResourcesGuest Website: https://1oakfinancial.com/Book: The One of a Kind Financial Plan (available on Amazon)Course: Personal Financial Planning – Old Dominion University#GrowthReadyPodcast #LeadershipMindset #BeOneOfAKind #HighPerformanceHabits #MindSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Nathan Pearce is the founder and CEO of Pearce Bespoke, a rapidly growing men’s custom tailoring brand redefining what it means to “look good, feel good.” From running a t-shirt business in his early 20s to building a national franchise in custom suiting, Nathan’s journey is a masterclass in grit, vision, and learning from losses rather than fearing failure. Through his company and charity initiative For Good Measure, Nathan is proving that confidence can be custom-tailored.About the Episode: In this episode, Steve sits down in person with Baton Rouge-based entrepreneur Nathan Pearce to uncover the lessons behind his explosive business growth — and the mindset that keeps him grounded. From selling his first company to creating a nationwide tailoring brand, Nathan opens up about trusting his gut, building teams who believe in your vision, and learning that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about showing up.Steve and Nathan also dive into what it means to be growth ready — how to balance ambition with reflection, handle losses without losing faith, and lead with authenticity at home and at work. This conversation is packed with raw honesty, practical wisdom, and a contagious drive to keep building, learning, and leading.Key Topics:What it truly means to be growth readyLearning from losses vs. failuresThe importance of trusting your gut as a leaderBuilding and scaling Pearce BespokeThe balance between vision and pivoting in businessLeadership lessons and leading through empathyThe “don’t be a victim” mindsetLegacy, purpose, and family balanceFor Good Measure — giving confidence through custom clothingLinks & Resources MentionedPearce Bespoke: www.pearcebespoke.comFor Good Measure Charity Campaign: Nominate someone deserving through the Pearce Bespoke websiteFollow Pearce Bespoke on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTokGrowthReady Podcast: www.growthready.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

High performers like us can get stuck chasing outcomes, living by ‘shoulds,’ and searching for the perfect choice. That black-and-white thinking keeps us on autopilot and robs us of momentum.Today’s guest, coach and Changeology host Meg Trucano, has lived this work. After burning out in a prestigious research career, a single question, ‘How will you feel a year from now if nothing changes?’, sparked a complete pivot. Now she helps high-achieving women create identity-level change with what she calls small acts of rebellion, like dropping old rules that don’t serve you and reclaiming your time.     If you’re ready to trade perfectionism for progress, you’ll learn how intention, agency, and aligned action create real movement, and how to give yourself permission to change your mind.-------------------------------About the Guest: Meg Trucano is a coach, podcaster, and change advocate who helps high-achieving women navigate major life transitions with clarity and intention. Through her coaching practice and her podcast Changeology, she empowers clients to rediscover their agency, break free from limiting “shoulds,” and create meaningful, identity-level transformation.Episode Summary: In this powerful conversation, Steve sits down with Meg Trucano to explore what it really means to be growth ready. Meg shares her perspective on the trifecta of growth—intention, agency, and aligned action—and how choosing to “exercise agency” is the key to creating lasting change.Together, they dive into why we’re so prone to black-and-white thinking, the cultural obsession with productivity and outcomes, and how self-awareness often defaults to self-criticism rather than possibility. Meg introduces her concept of “small acts of rebellion” and reveals how choice and ownership transform how we show up in life.From her personal burnout story to her mission of guiding others through life’s biggest shifts, Meg’s wisdom is equal parts practical and inspiring. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop coasting and start choosing the life you want, this episode is for you.Key Topics & Themes:What it means to be growth readyThe trifecta: intention, agency, aligned actSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Too many high-performers get stuck in overthinking. They let opportunities pass, waiting for the “perfect time.”John Donnelly knows this firsthand. From leading through the 2008 mortgage crash to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at 50, John built his career and life on one principle: say yes until you have to say no.In today’s episode, you’ll learn how saying yes more often can unlock opportunities, deepen your self-awareness, and help you prepare for your own “mountain.”We’ll cover how John leads with curiosity in a structured industry, why self-awareness is the ultimate ROI, how to gamify big goals like Kilimanjaro, and the practical ways you can start saying yes to growth, even when fear says no.---------------------About the Guest: John Donnelly is the Senior VP of Sales at Service First Mortgage, where he has led through industry highs, the 2008 financial crash, and ongoing disruption from technology and AI. Beyond his decades in leadership, John is a lifelong learner and adventurer, most recently proving it by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at 50. His motto: say yes until you have to say no.About the Episode: Growth isn’t about waiting for the perfect time, it’s about saying yes, taking action, and learning as you go.In this episode of the GrowthReady Podcast, Steve Mellor sits down with John Donnelly to explore how saying yes can unlock opportunities, build self-awareness, and lead to transformational growth. From stories of leading teams through chaos to personal lessons gained on Kilimanjaro, John shares how curiosity, consistency, and conscious action create unstoppable momentum.Key Topics & ThemesWhat it means to say yes until you must say noLeading through crisis: lessons from the 2008 mortgage collapseWhy curiosity beats certainty in leadershipHow a 12-hour walk sparked self-awareness and life-changing goalsThe preparation and lessons from climbing Mount KilimanjaroWhy consistency matters more than perfectionTurning ceilings into floors: leading with legacy for your family and teamLinks & Resources MentionedConnect witSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

Too many leaders hit a wall trading time for money, playing it safe, or letting fear hold them back. Aaron Golub, legally blind, former D1 athlete, NFL free agent, and now speaker-turned-SaaS founder, didn’t let obstacles stop him. In this episode, you’ll learn how adaptability, trust, and self-awareness helped him move from keynote stages to co-founding Precision Search, a SaaS business with his sister.About the Guest: Aaron is the first legally blind Division I athlete to play football, a former NFL free agent, and a sought-after motivational speaker. He’s also the co-founder of Precision Search, a programmatic SEO company helping businesses scale.About the Episode: What does it really mean to be GrowthReady? For Aaron Golub, it’s about leaning into discomfort, adapting to change, and building something bigger than yourself.In this episode, host Steve Mellor dives deep with Aaron on how he transitioned from keynote stages to building a scalable software company alongside his sister. Aaron shares the lessons he’s learned about adaptability, gamifying growth, and why asking for help is one of the most underrated leadership skills.This is a conversation for entrepreneurs, leaders, and high-performers who want to stop trading time for money and start building ventures that can scale far beyond themselves.Key Takeaways:What it really means to be growth readyAdaptability as a competitive advantageTransitioning from a speaking career to a SaaS companyThe limitations of personal branding and why Aaron wanted moreHow to gamify growth so business stays funThe importance of asking for help and building trustNavigating partnerships and teamwork (including working with family)Aaron’s wildest dreams: IPO or a $100M+ exitLinks & Resources MentionedAaron Golub’s Website → AaronGolub.comPrecision Search (Aaron’s SaaS company) → PrecisionSearch.ioConnect with Aaron on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/aarongolubFollow Steve Mellor → Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Dr. Heather Hodges is an organizational psychologist, keynote speaker, speed painter, and author of Heart Work: How to Lead People, Build Culture, and Unleash Creativity in Home Care. After leaving a corporate VP role, she followed her calling to help leaders unlock creativity and lead with courage. Heather’s unique approach blends research, storytelling, and art to inspire audiences to embrace failure, find their potential, and lead with heart.About the Episode: In this episode of The Growth Ready Podcast, Steve sits down with Heather Hodges to explore what it really means to be “growth ready.” From her courageous leap out of corporate leadership to launching her own company, Heather shares her story of embracing failure, unleashing creativity, and leaning into the unknown. Together, they dig into the Jonah Complex, why so many adults lose their creativity, and how simple tools (like crayons!) can reignite innovation. Heather also reveals the heart behind her new book and the message she’s sharing with leaders everywhere.Key Topics & ThemesWhy willingness (not just openness) is essential for growthThe role of courage and failure in unlocking creativityHeather’s leap from VP to solopreneur and keynote speakerThe Jonah Complex: fearing our own greatnessHow school systems diminish creativity—and how to reclaim itUsing simple tools (like crayons) to spark divergent thinkingLessons from Heather’s new book Heart WorkDaily practices for self-awareness and intentional leadershipCompeting with yourself: growth as an ongoing journey Links & Resources MentionedHeather’s Website: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.comHeather on LinkedIn: Dr. Heather L. HodgesHeather’s Book: Heart Work: How to Lead People, Build Culture, and Unleash Creativity in Home CareFollow Steve Mellor → LinkedIn | Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Maritza McClendon is an Olympic silver medalist, speaker, and corporate leader currently serving in Communications and Community Affairs at Carter’s. Beyond her remarkable swimming career, Maritza has dedicated herself to inspiring others through speaking, leadership, and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Today, she continues to build her orbit, learning from mentors, influencing others, and preparing to step into her next chapter as both a professional speaker and aspiring author.Episode Summary: In this powerful conversation, Steve Mellor reconnects with returning guest Maritza McClendon to explore what it truly means to be growth ready. From navigating life’s unexpected turns (like broken goggles behind the starting block) to leading with calm in corporate spaces, Maritza shares how possibility, curiosity, and feedback have fueled her growth both as an Olympic athlete and as a leader.Together, Steve and Maritza dive into how to embrace uncertainty, create orbits of support and influence, and use feedback not as criticism but as a gift for growth. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to thrive in their career, sport, or life by leaning into discomfort, curiosity, and community.Takeaways:What it means to be growth ready in sport, career, and lifeHow to embrace possibility and the unknown with confidenceThe power of pivoting when plans break down (literally)Building “orbits” of mentors, peers, and those you influenceUsing calmness and preparation to lead through uncertaintyTurning nervous energy into focused performanceReframing feedback as a collaborative, empowering toolWhy curiosity is the muscle that drives long-term growthMaritza’s next chapter: stepping into speaking and authorshipLinks & Resources MentionedMaritza’s Website: maritzamcclendon.comInstagram: @RitzySwimsLinkedIn: Maritza McCleSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Scott Stirrett is the founder of Venture for Canada (VFC), an organization that has supported over 10,000 young professionals in launching their careers. He is also the author of The Uncertainty Advantage, a book that equips people of all ages to embrace change and uncertainty as a superpower instead of fearing it. Scott’s work has raised more than $80 million to empower Canada’s future leaders, and he’s passionate about helping people strengthen their "risk-taking muscles" to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.Episode Summary: In this episode of Growth Ready, Steve Mellor sits down with Scott Stirrett to explore how uncertainty, often seen as a roadblock, can become our greatest advantage. From the six core pillars of thriving in uncertain times (including self-compassion, adaptability, and entrepreneurial mindset) to building risk-taking muscles and investing in community, Scott shares actionable wisdom from his book The Uncertainty Advantage.Whether you’re an early-career professional or decades into your journey, this conversation will help you shift your mindset, embrace risk as growth, and strengthen your ability to thrive in times of change.Takeaways:Why uncertainty is baked into our DNAThe six pillars of The Uncertainty AdvantageBuilding risk-taking muscles through small daily actionsHow adaptability and generalist skills future-proof your careerThe power of community in navigating uncertaintySuccess stories from Venture for Canada alumniThe myth of “one big risk” vs. thousands of small betsHow reflection and feedback accelerate growthLinks & Resources MentionedSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the EpisodeIn this episode of The Growth Ready Podcast: Coaches Corner, host Steve Mellor challenges the common misconceptions about coaching. Using the legendary story of Coach Jim Valvano and NC State’s 1983 championship run, Steve illustrates that true coaching isn’t about control, shouting, or rigid direction, it’s about facilitation, curiosity, and empowerment.Listeners will discover why the best coaches (on the court, in the boardroom, or in life) create environments for self-discovery and ownership, and how adopting this mindset can transform leadership and growth.Key Takeaways:Rethinking what coaching truly meansThe difference between dictating vs. facilitating growthLessons from Jim Valvano’s 1983 NC State basketball championship journeyWhy curiosity, respect, and empowerment define great coachingThe lasting impact of self-discovery and ownership in personal and professional growthIf you’re ready to stop dictating and start facilitating, subscribe to The GrowthReady Podcast today. Share this episode with a leader or coach who needs to hear it, and let’s build a world where growth comes from empowerment, not control.Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Elia Blankenship is a consulting leader at RSM specializing in transformation work for financial institutions and beyond. With a background in management, organizational change, and a deep commitment to emotional intelligence, Elia challenges the traditional “consultant tells, client does” approach. Instead, she builds partnerships rooted in listening, candor, and collaboration, empowering clients to own their growth journey. She’s also a champion for automation and AI adoption in the industries she serves.About the Episode: In this conversation, host Steve Mellor and guest Elia Blankenship unpack what it really means to be “growth ready.” They challenge outdated notions of consulting, explore the role of trust and candidness in partnerships, and dig into the messy reality of change. Elia shares her approach to creating ownership in clients, why “reading the room” is a critical skill, and how personal growth mirrors professional transformation. They also touch on adapting to digital trends, breaking through ego and bias, and the importance of staying curious in a fast-moving world.At the heart of the discussion? Growth takes work. Hard work. But with the right people, the right mindset, and the willingness to listen, it’s work worth doing.Key Topics DiscussedRethinking the role of a consultantThe importance of listening, humility, and service in leadershipBuilding trust before candid conversationsCreating ownership so clients sustain progressOvercoming ego, pride of ownership, and readiness barriersReading the room and adapting communication stylesApplying consulting lessons to family and personal growthThe need to embrace AI, automation, and digital transformationHow speed-to-market is changing the consulting landscapePersonal reflections on future growth and unfinished projectsLinks and Resources MentionedRSM – https://rsmus.comBooks on Emotional Intelligence (Emotional Intelligence 2.0)Microsoft Copilot and AI tools referenced in discussionSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Tracy Clark is a leadership coach, former managing partner of an international oil & gas events business, and a passionate advocate for helping founders and leaders break through invisible limits. After scaling her company 450% and exiting for eight figures, Tracy shifted her focus to guiding others in discovering their own transformative power through deep inner work, curiosity, and radical experimentation.About the Episode: In this eye-opening conversation, Steve Mellor is joined by fellow Brit Tracy Clark for a deep dive into what it really means to be "Growth Ready." Tracy shares her personal journey from scaling a multimillion-dollar company to becoming a leadership coach focused on helping others dissolve limiting beliefs, or what she calls “invisible boxes.”Through powerful metaphors, such as the tree with visible trunks and invisible roots, Tracy encourages leaders to turn inward, embrace curiosity, and use playfulness as a serious tool for transformation. Whether you're a founder, a coach, or simply someone seeking to grow, this episode offers practical frameworks and energizing insights to challenge the narratives holding you back.Takeaways:What it means to be GrowthReadyChoosing discovery over certaintyChallenging inherited beliefs and invisible boxesThe role of self-concept in leadership and impactTracy’s journey from business owner to coachUsing curiosity, open-mindedness, and experimentation as leadership superpowersThe power of playfulness in business and lifeHow deep self-inquiry leads to clarity and calmLetting go of external blame and stepping into ownershipTracy’s Leadership Success ScorecardLinks and Resources:Tracy Clark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyclarkcoach/Leadership Success Scorecard: https://tracyclark.scoreapp.com/Steve Mellor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Lori Melancon is the CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber. A driven, candid, and deeply passionate leader, Lori is known for her commitment to systemic change, economic development, and building a more connected and resilient Baton Rouge. Her leadership style blends transparency, emotional intelligence, and a deep belief in community-driven progress.Episode Summary: Steve Mellor sits down with Lori Melancon to explore what it means to be "growth ready" as both an individual and a leader of an entire city. Lori unpacks the idea of enduring "seasons of suck", those tough, messy, uncertain times that test us and ultimately forge our greatest growth.Together, they dive into topics like vulnerability in leadership, the collective responsibility we all share in shaping our communities, and the relentless pursuit of meaningful work. Lori offers refreshing honesty about the loneliness of leadership, the power of transparency, and how embracing discomfort is essential for real progress.Whether you're a high-performing leader, someone navigating change, or just looking for real talk about personal growth, this episode is rich with insight, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart.Key Topics and Themes Discussed:What it means to be "growth ready"Embracing the "season of suck"Vulnerability and transparency in leadershipCommunity transformation and ownershipCreating culture through communication and actionHow to lead with purpose in challenging political and social climatesThe emotional and personal toll of meaningful workAccountability and radical candor as tools for growthLinks and Resources:Baton Rouge Area Chamber: https://www.brac.orgIna Garten’s memoir reference: Be Ready When the Luck HappensGrowth Ready Podcast: https://growthready.comSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Lex Gillette is a world-renowned Paralympic track and field athlete, speaker, and author. Despite losing his sight at age 8, Lex has built a career marked by world records, Paralympic medals, and a powerful mission to teach others how to "see" their potential. His message centers on leadership, resilience, and unlocking excellence in life’s everyday moments.About the Episode: In this inspiring conversation, Steve Mellor welcomes back Lex Gillette for a deep dive into what it really means to be “growth ready.” They explore the mindset of daily excellence, the vital role of trust and feedback in high-performance relationships, and how Lex’s unique experiences as a blind athlete have sharpened his insights on leadership, dependency, and perspective. With powerful reflections on parenthood, adversity, and preparation for the 2028 LA Games, this episode challenges listeners to reconsider how they define success—and who they lean on to reach it.Takeaways:The true meaning of being "growth ready"The role of flexibility, open-mindedness, and perspectiveTrust, communication, and feedback in high-performance teamsLessons from Lex’s journey as a blind athleteThe daily competition mindset — winning the dayApplying elite athletic principles to everyday lifePreparing for the LA 2028 Paralympic GamesPersonal responsibility and leadershipThe story behind Lex's book No Need for Sight When You Have a VisionNavigating life with purpose, beyond sportLinks & Resources:Lex Gillette’s Website: www.lexgillette.comNo Need for Sight When You Have a Vision (Book)Lex on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn (@lexgillette)Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training CenterSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Amanda Stern is a coach, writer, speaker, and expert in the practice of journaling as a tool for self-discovery, emotional clarity, and intentional living. A lifelong learner and former librarian, Amanda has built a unique approach to helping others show up more fully in their lives. She blends soft skills like presence and empathy with a bold curiosity about how we grow, adapt, and serve others... while staying grounded in our own values.About the Episode: Amanda Stern returns to the podcast for a powerful, vulnerable conversation about what it really means to show up... for ourselves and others. In a world constantly pushing us to “find our lane,” Amanda challenges the idea that we must be one thing, do one thing, or stick to one path. Instead, she shares what happens when we lead with curiosity, practice presence, and honor the season we’re in.From juggling multiple part-time roles to letting go of full-time journaling work, Amanda gets real about burnout, reinvention, and how self-reflection (through journaling or otherwise) helps us move forward with purpose. It’s an episode full of insight, compassion, and practical wisdom for anyone navigating change, seeking meaning, or just trying to figure out what’s next.Key Topics and ThemesWhat it means to be growth readyThe power of curiosity as a core valueShowing up for others vs. showing up for yourselfLetting go of control and embracing life’s magicParenting lessons that translate to self-awarenessBuilding and releasing a passion projectLearning to value soft skills and intangible talentsCreating space for presence in a noisy worldHow journaling fosters personal transformationRedefining success in seasons of changeLinks and Resources MentionedAmanda Stern on LinkedInOriginal appearance on Career Competitor podcastSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Episode:In this special milestone episode, Steve Mellor reflects on seven years of podcasting and what’s kept him going through every high and low. He shares a deeply personal story of a swimmer he once coached, Timmy and how rediscovering his "why" led him back to joy and forward to the Olympic trials. Steve also invites listeners to ask themselves the big question: Why did you start?This episode is a timely and powerful reminder to reconnect with the spark that first inspired you.Takeaways:The danger of forgetting your “why”A personal coaching story that illustrates rediscovery and resilienceThe emotional and mental toll of high expectationsHow reconnecting with purpose reignites performanceReflections from 7 years of podcasting and over 270 episodesThe quiet crisis behind many great achievementsPowerful self-reflection questions for realignmentLinks & Resources Mentioned:GrowthReady PodcastFollow Steve Mellor on Instagram: @coachstevemellorBook Steve for SpeakingSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Gene Rice is a seasoned executive recruiter, entrepreneur, and author of the bestselling book “From Grad to Grown-Up.” With a rich career that spans from owning rock clubs to founding one of the top executive search firms in the U.S., Gene is dedicated to helping young professionals and leaders find clarity, passion, and purpose in their careers. He also co-founded the "Plant a Seed Inspire a Dream Foundation," supporting youth in pursuing their passions regardless of financial limitations.About the Episode: In this episode, Steve Mellor reconnects with Gene Rice three years after their first conversation. Together, they explore what it truly means to be “growth ready”,  diving deep into themes of career clarity, passion-driven work, and the hard truths about professional fulfillment. Gene shares invaluable stories from decades of placing top executives and mentoring young talent, all anchored around a powerful message: don't wait until you're burnt out to find what lights you up.Takeaways:What being “growth ready” truly meansGene’s eclectic career journey from rock clubs to executive searchThe importance of aligning career with purpose and passionCommon regrets people have at the end of lifeHow young professionals can test their passions before committingAdvice for mid-career professionals feeling stuckThe emotional ROI of doing work you loveStrategies for maintaining long-term professional joyThe mission and impact of the “Plant a Seed Inspire a Dream” foundationLinks & Resources Mentioned:Gene Rice’s Book: From Grad to Grown-UpPlant a Seed Inspire a Dream Foundation: Official SiteSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the GuestLarry Long Jr. is a global keynote speaker, sales coach, author, and founder of LLJR Enterprises. Known for his infectious energy and motivational message, Larry inspires professionals around the world to rediscover their greatness and live with purpose. A former athlete turned corporate sales leader, Larry now helps others step into their power with clarity, courage, and community.About the EpisodeIn this high-energy and heart-filled conversation, Larry Long Jr. returns to the GrowthReady podcast with Steve Mellor to dive deep into what it really means to live with intention. From getting unstuck in life and business to building a global speaking career while staying grounded in family and personal health, Larry opens up about the mindset shifts, coaching, and community that fueled his transformation. Whether you’re on the edge of a leap or in need of a spark, this episode is a rally cry for bold, purpose-driven living.Takeaways:The power of intentional investment in personal and professional growthWhy mindset is the bridge between strategy and executionHow Larry's health journey became a catalyst for greater impactBuilding community while scaling a global speaking businessHow to rediscover your inner greatness and live with bold clarityThe role of coaching, accountability, and faith in sustainable successReframing rejection and failure as stepping stones to purposeLinks & Resources MentionedLarry's Website: larrylongjr.comBook: JOLT! Get Zapped into Intentionality, Rediscover and Believe in Your Inner GreatnessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/longjr7/NSA Influence ConferenceGlobal Speaker Summit (2025 - Cairns, Australia)Instagram: @longjr7Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

About the Guest: Amy Boone Thompson is the CEO and Owner of IDEA Health & Fitness Association, a trailblazer in the wellness industry, and Chair of World Active. With over two decades of experience in fitness leadership, Amy has worn every hat, from personal trainer to executive leader. Her mission is rooted in making health and movement accessible to all, and she leads with authenticity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to growth.Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, host Steve Mellor reconnects with returning guest Amy Boone Thompson for an energizing conversation on leadership, personal growth, and shaping the future of fitness. Amy opens up about what it truly means to be “growth ready,” the challenges and decisions that come with leading a 300,000-member global organization, and why blending authenticity with agility is her leadership superpower. She also shares how writing her first book taught her to lead with gratitude, and why that practice is transforming how she shows up for her team and herself.Takeaways:What it means to be “growth ready” in life and businessThe power of curiosity and the dangers of ego-driven leadershipBlending personal and professional identities in lifestyle industriesHow empathy became Amy’s superpower as a leaderMaking bold, sometimes unpopular decisions in service of innovationLeading with intention, especially during industry-wide transformationGlobal leadership through World Active and WHO partnershipsGratitude as a leadership practiceAligning passion and purpose for long-term impactAmy’s vision for the future of IDEA and inclusive fitnessLinks & Resources:IDEA Health & Fitness Association: www.ideafit.comAmy Boone Thompson on Instagram: @amyboonethompsonIDEA World 2025 in Sacramento: July 17–19, 2025Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

👤 Guest Bio: Margaret Watts Romney is a leadership communication coach, TEDx speaker coach, and author of The Speakership is Leadership. With a rich background in public speaking, neurology, and purposeful leadership, Margaret empowers individuals to find their voice, connect authentically with audiences, and lead through clarity and emotional intelligence. Her unique approach helps speakers of all levels become impactful communicators—from the TEDx stage to daily conversations.📘 Episode Summary: In this transformative conversation, host Steve Mellor sits down with Margaret Watts Romney to explore the nuanced journey of growth, communication, and emotional awareness. From redefining what it means to be “growth ready” to uncovering the internal and external elements of powerful speakership, Margaret shares compelling stories and insights about navigating nerves, leading with intention, and the neurological roots of how we show up and speak.This episode is a masterclass in self-awareness and leadership for anyone looking to improve how they connect, communicate, and contribute to the world around them.🗝️ Key Takeaways:Growth isn’t a definition, it’s an experience shaped by emotion, intention, and clarity.Speakership is about more than public speaking, it's about how we consistently use our words to lead and connect.Emotional awareness is essential for decision-making and leadership.Learn how to balance the “elephant” (emotional mind) and the “rider” (rational mind) to communicate more effectively.Speaking isn’t always about talking, it’s also about asking the right questions and truly listening.Margaret’s personal journey from a classical cellist to a speaker coach reveals the power of shifting focus from self to service.Tips for preparing to speak under pressure, from TEDx stages to team meetings.🔗 Resources & Mentions:Margaret’s book: The Speakership is Leadership — Available on major booksellersWebsite: www.masterspeakerlab.comConnect with Margaret on LinkedIn: Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

👤 About the Guest: Julio Melara is a seasoned CEO, publisher, entrepreneur, and author with a deep passion for personal development and leadership. With a track record of transforming adversity into opportunity, Julio brings decades of experience in business, publishing, and motivational speaking. He’s the publisher of Business Report and the author of several impactful books, including It Only Takes Everything You’ve Got. Julio lives what he teaches, and in this episode, he shares why being growth-ready means more than just setting goals; it means embracing the work that change requires.🔍 Episode Summary: What does it really mean to be “growth ready”? In this powerful opening episode, host Steve Mellor sits down with Julio Melara to unpack the mindset, habits, and heart required for true transformation. Julio reveals the discipline behind consistent personal evolution, why most people resist the very change they seek, and how he stays anchored through the highs and lows of business and life.Listeners will walk away with a clearer picture of what it takes to grow, not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s hard. Whether you’re leading a company, a team, or just trying to level up in your own life, this episode offers practical insights and real talk from someone who’s walked the path.📝 Key Takeaways:What it really means to be "growth ready"Why most people want growth but resist changeThe role of clarity and discipline in sustainable successHow to align your habits with your visionWhy starting small can create massive momentumJulio’s personal story of resilience and purpose-driven leadershipThe difference between dreaming and deciding🔗 Links & Resources:Julio Melara’s WebsiteBook: It Only Takes Everything You’ve Got by Julio MelaraBusiness Report – Julio's publicationConnect with Julio on LinkedInSteSend us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

👤 Guest Bio: Ric Moylan is a high-performance coach, speaker, and founder of Charity Boxing Nights and Reset Summit. With a background in elite boxing and martial arts, Ric brings a unique lens to personal and professional growth, bridging lessons from combat sports into boardrooms, businesses, and everyday life. His coaching philosophy is grounded in discipline, purpose, and the belief that real growth comes from doing the hard, boring stuff, consistently.🎧 Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, host Steve Mellor sits down with long-time friend and performance coach Ric Moylan to unpack what it really means to be growth ready. From his roots in elite boxing to launching transformational charity events, Ric shares how the most meaningful breakthroughs often come from the most mundane, disciplined habits. They explore the concept of a “personal code,” how loose goals keep us stuck, and why putting in the work, especially when it's boring or inconvenient, is the key to unlocking your potential. You’ll also hear the moving story behind Charity Boxing Nights and how choosing discomfort can create lasting change, not just in your life, but in others’.📌 Key Takeaways:“Do the work” isn't a cliché, it’s a mindset. Success is built in the monotony of showing up daily, not grand gestures.Create a personal code. Growth starts with clarity and commitment to who you want to be, not just what you want to achieve.Lofty goals mean nothing without concrete steps. Vague goals are a way to protect ourselves from doing the work.Growth is often boring. But embracing the boredom is where true progress lies.Balance is possible. You can be driven and disciplined and make space for joy, rest, and fulfillment.Give back, go further. Learn how Ric’s Charity Boxing Nights have helped participants transform themselves while raising over £700,000 for NICU units.Reset is powerful. Discover why carving space for reflection and recommitment can reignite your personal or professional journey.🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:🌐 Ric Moylan’s Website: Send us Fan MailSupport the showConnect with Steve MellorStay connected and keep growing with Steve:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellorBook Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.comSupport the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163Connect with GrowthReadyJoin the community and keep your growth journey going:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellorOfficial Website - https://growthready.com/----This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...