Lead With Purpose

PODCAST · business

Lead With Purpose

Most organizations don’t fail because of bad strategy, weak technology, or poor processes. They fail because leadership breaks down in the human moments of execution.The Lead With Purpose Podcast, hosted by leadership consultant and former IT project executive Merv Jersak, explores the real disciplines that determine whether teams struggle under pressure or perform with clarity and cohesion.After four decades working inside complex organizations, Merv saw the same pattern repeated everywhere: high-performing producers promoted into leadership roles but rarely trained in the skills required to guide people through conflict, uncertainty, competing priorities, and organizational pressure.This podcast focuses on those leadership skills.Through conversations with experienced leaders, coaches, and professionals, you’ll hear practical insights on how strong leaders steady themselves under pressure, build trust that speeds collaboration, align teams around shared goals, make disciplined de

  1. 19

    Eva Fanari: People Don’t React to Your Words; They React to Your Presence

    For Your Leadership Toolkit self-awareness as the foundation of leadership the difference between talking and communicating managing emotions to influence others the impact of body language and presence practicing emotional neutrality daily reading the room and recognizing emotional cues the role of cultural background in communication the importance of silence and asking better questions   Sound bites “People think that communication is about delivering information first. But the reality is that it's actually managing emotions first.” "Your greatest work in this life is always yourself." "People aren't reacting to our words, they're reacting to our presence as leaders." “Leaders oftentimes confuse their intention with their impact.” “We are in an information gathering business, and you cannot gather information if you're talking.” “Silence is your best ally no matter where you go because most people will feel they need to fill it in.”   Chapters 00:00 Mastering Self for Effective Leadership 04:13 The Essence of Communication 07:03 Self-Awareness Under Pressure 10:08 Emotional Blind Spots in Leadership 13:18 Practicing Emotional Neutrality 16:08 Negotiation: The Art of Asking Questions 19:10 The Power of Silence in Communication 22:08 Cultural Influences on Communication 25:06 The Impact of Upbringing on Leadership 28:13 Intuition in Communication 31:12 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways   Resources Eva’s Website: https://evafanari.com Eva Fanari on Substack: https://substack.com/@evafanari?utm_source=top_search Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  2. 18

    Your Work Isn't Invisible. You Are!

    For Your Leadership Toolkit the difference between performance and visibility in leadership how to communicate your value effectively the role of clarity and confidence in leadership strategies for leaders to increase their influence the importance of authentic self-promotion and visibility visibility as a leadership tool clarity and communication in leadership reflect on your personal vision and mission focus on serving your audience's needs   Sound bites "Losing my job was my gift in disguise." " No one sees the dedication that you put in the way that you see it. So if you don't highlight it, no one's going to notice" “… as a leader in an organization, I think that first getting really clear on what your vision is within yourself …” "Focus on who you're serving and what they need."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Visibility and Leadership 01:40 Bridget's Journey from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 05:03 Recognizing Misalignment in Leadership 08:02 The Importance of Visibility in Career Advancement 13:10 Clarity in Leadership Communication 17:47 Serving Others as a Leadership Principle 21:09 Addressing Burnout in Corporate Culture   Resources Bridget’s company: Amp Up My Biz (https://ampupmybiz.com) Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  3. 17

    Paul Wilson: Clarity Isn’t a Luxury; It’s Leadership Oxygen

    For Your Leadership Toolkit clarity of purpose changes everything in leadership discovering and living your purpose purpose is something you discover and reveal, not create. the WHY Operating System helps identify your natural strengths understanding your 'why' leads to greater engagement and fulfillment leadership under pressure and staying aligned listening with the heart is crucial for effective leadership   Sound bites "Clarity of purpose changes everything." "Ask yourself, am I doing what I love?" "Follow, share, lead with purpose."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose and Clarity 02:55 Paul Wilson's Journey to Discovering Purpose 06:04 The Importance of Purpose in Leadership 09:12 Recognizing Lack of Clarity in Teams 11:54 Purpose Under Pressure 14:58 Discovering Your Why 18:10 The Nature of Purpose: Discovery vs. Decision 20:05 Finding Fulfillment in Work 23:06 Practical Steps for Young Leaders 25:59 Rapid Fire Questions and Insights 28:56 Conclusion and Resources   Resources Paul’s website: https://wakeupyourgenius.com Paul’s email: [email protected] Find your WHY: https://whyinstitute.com/ Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  4. 16

    Bob Mason: Promoted, But Not Prepared

    In this insightful interview, leadership expert Bob Mason shares practical advice on developing effective leadership skills, avoiding common pitfalls, and leading with purpose. Discover how to build trust, simplify leadership, and foster team success through real-world experiences and proven principles.   For Your Leadership Toolkit leadership mistakes at the supervisory level the importance of leadership development building trust with teams three significant characteristics of good leadership simplifying leadership principles   Sound Bites "Leadership is a skill set, not a soft skill." "Listen to your team to build trust." "The myth of the born leader is dangerous."   Chapters 00:00 Identifying Leadership Problems 03:07 The Transition from Manager to Leader 05:59 Key Leadership Skills for New Leaders 08:55 Understanding Team Dynamics and Mission 11:56 Listening and Building Trust 15:05 The Simplicity of Leadership 17:59 Avoiding Micromanagement 21:00 Rapid Fire Leadership Insights 24:02 Conclusion and Key Takeaways   Resources Datalys Leadership Group - https://dleadershipgroup.com Bob Mason on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-mason Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  5. 15

    Ron Price: Don’t Avoid Conflict, Master It

    For Your Leadership Toolkit: conflict management strategies the 'Play Nice' approach in leadership the importance of timing and emotional intelligence in conflict empathy and respect in leadership techniques to stay in the thinking brain rather than the emotional brain during conflict   Sound bites "Timing is crucial in conflict management" "Empathy is key to effective leadership" "We judge ourselves by our motives; we judge others by their actions."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Conflict Resolution 03:01 Understanding Conflict in Leadership 05:57 The Concept of 'Playing Nice' 09:10 The Importance of Timing in Conflict 12:08 Self-Regulation and Emotional Intelligence 14:57 Techniques for Managing Conflict 18:10 Empathy and Leadership 20:51 Navigating Conflict Without Authority 23:56 The Role of Listening in Leadership 26:55 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts   Resources Ron Price's Website: https://ronprice.com Ron Price’s email: [email protected] Conflict CPR Mastery Course - https://ronprice.com/conflict-cpr-mastery Books: series Play Nice in Your Sandbox  Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  6. 14

    Randy Powell: Stuck is a Choice, Momentum is a Skill

    For Your Leadership Toolkit the role of influence in leadership training and confidence as leadership foundations the concept of Encore Authority for women over 50 strategies to get unstuck and achieve breakthrough the importance of authentic connection and influence well-trained and confident teams perform at their best. women over 50 have valuable experience that can be turned into influence and income. getting unstuck requires a mindset shift and strategic action. leadership is a lifelong journey of learning and influence.   Sound bites "Leadership comes in many different forms." "If you can influence, you can lead." "Leaders are made, not just born."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Influence 01:09 Randy Powell's Journey from Corporate to Entrepreneur 04:21 Leadership Lessons from Corporate Experience 07:05 The Importance of Training and Confidence 10:25 Envision Success and Encore Authority 12:24 Empowering Women Over 50 for Their Second Act 15:45 Helping People Get Unstuck and Find Their Voice 17:40 The Meaning of Encore Authority 18:38 Rapid Fire: Myths and Insights on Leadership Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  7. 13

    Maureen Zappala: NASA-Level Brilliance, Imposter-Level Doubt

    For Your Leadership Toolkit imposter syndrome often stems from self-imposed beliefs and systemic issues recognizing one's qualifications is crucial in overcoming imposter syndrome imposter syndrome can limit creativity and decision-making abilities delegation is essential for effective leadership and personal growth conflict management styles can differ based on gender and personal experience transitioning careers can bring about imposter feelings, but they can be managed understanding the value of one's character traits is important for leaders spiritual and personal development practices can help combat self-doubt leaders should seek to understand the internal struggles of their team members having a larger vision can help leaders push through self-doubt Sound bites "Imposter syndrome never really goes away." "Change is the biggest trigger of imposter feelings." "Imposter syndrome affects how leaders handle conflict." "Lead from the truth that someone saw something in you."   Chapters 00:00Introduction to Imposter Syndrome 03:11Maureen's Journey at NASA 06:08Understanding Imposter Syndrome 09:00The Impact of Imposter Syndrome on Leadership 12:07Navigating Conflict and Imposter Syndrome 15:08Transitioning from Engineer to Speaker 17:57Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Leadership 20:57Rapid Fire Questions and Insights 24:10The Role of Dance in Leadership 26:59Conclusion and Key Takeaways Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  8. 12

    Michael Silvers: One Team, One Family – Leadership That Serves

    For Your Leadership Toolkit every individual has a story that can impact others building a unified team requires clear communication of the mission collaboration is essential for effective leadership AI is transforming industries, but the human element remains crucial invisible leadership qualities often define great leaders high-performing leaders prioritize reflection and continuous improvement effective communication is vital in diverse teams leaders should focus on being of service to their teams delegation is key to scaling influence and effectiveness daily actions should align with a commitment to service   Sound bites “… when there's greatness around you, number one, listen, number two, listen, number three, listen.” "We are one team, we are one family." " The part of leadership to me is the unspoken …" "… it's not how hard they worked, but it's how smart they worked."   Chapters 03:11 Michael Silvers' Leadership Journey 06:28 Lessons from Influential Speakers and Hosts 09:48 The Power of Team and Family in Leadership 12:10 AI, Media, and Human Development Intersection 17:55 Invisible but Essential Leadership Qualities 20:17 The Human Side of Leadership and Influence 23:32 Decision-Making, KPIs, and Continuous Improvement 26:47 Communication Challenges and Lessons Learned 27:45 Rapid Fire Q&A: Leadership Habits and Myths 29:39 Connecting with Michael Silvers and Final Words Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  9. 11

    Norm Hull: Building Leaders Before the World Sees Them

    For Your Leadership Toolkit positive feedback and a nurturing environment are crucial for developing leadership skills facilitation skills are essential for effective leadership and teamwork communication skills are vital in both personal and professional settings young leaders often fear failure due to social media exposure mentorship plays a significant role in building confidence in young leaders empowering others is a key aspect of effective leadership leaders should be willing to step back and let others shine interactive learning keeps leaders engaged and helps them grow young people today are capable of incredible things and should not be underestimated   Sound bites "Leaders can be made. They are not born." "You can be the picker or the pickee." "We're selling the invisible."   Chapters 00:00 The Essence of Leadership Choices 01:14 Norm Hull's Leadership Journey 05:34 Engaging Youth in Leadership 10:21 Essential Skills for Young Leaders 15:05 The Role of Mentorship in Leadership 20:21 Overcoming Barriers for Young Leaders 23:10 The Impact of Leadership on Future Generations Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  10. 10

    Jimmy Owens: What a Heart Transplant Taught Me

    For Your Leadership Toolkityou have to be serious about your goalssuccess is peace of mind from doing your bestlife is about the journey, not just the destinationinspiration is crucial for self-motivationyou must believe in yourself for others to believe in younever give up on anyone you leadtaking care of yourself is essential to help othersleadership lessons from sports apply to all areas of lifeconsistency is key in team dynamicscontinuous learning is vital for growth Sound Bites"You gotta be serious."“You don't just show up once or twice in practice …”"Inspiration is key."“When I'm a coach, I can't miss any day. I got to be there.” Chapters00:00 A Journey of Transformation05:41 Leadership Lessons from Coaching11:23 The SWIM Philosophy14:46 Health Journey and Self-Care17:11 Building a Winning Culture19:34 Rapid Fire Leadership Insights Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  11. 9

    Gina St. George: Fix the System. Free the Team.

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:a leader's role is to remove obstacles for their teamlistening to those closest to the work is crucialprocesses often need improvement, not the peopleleadership requires understanding the challenges faced by teamssmall businesses need effective systems to thrivetransitioning to consulting requires adaptability and resourcefulnessleadership is about building systems for team developmentlistening is an essential leadership qualityeffective processes lead to happier, more productive teams Sound bites"People are usually not the problem.""You have to understand what is the problem.""I became my first client.""What do people really need from me?" Chapters00:00 The Essence of Leadership01:05 Gina St. George's Leadership Journey02:30 The Importance of Process in Leadership10:12 Common Pitfalls in Leadership Systems13:22 Transitioning to Consulting19:05 The Arrival Series: A New Perspective on Business25:47 Misconceptions and Insights on Leadership Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  12. 8

    Sharla Frost: Power at the Table - Leadership Lessons from the Courtroom

    For Your Leadership Toolkitleadership requires courage and the willingness to stand alonementorship can significantly shape one's career pathpreparation is essential for effective decision-makingintegrity and ethics are crucial leadership traitscreativity is a key differentiator in successful leadershipstorytelling is a powerful tool for persuasiontransitioning careers requires thoughtful planning and preparationleaders must be willing to admit what they don't knowthe ability to communicate effectively is vital in leadershipleaders can develop their skills over time, regardless of their background Sound bites"It was my obligation to tell them the truth, whether they wanted to hear it or not..""You have to be willing to make the decision. And sometimes you have to be willing to make the hard call.""You have to admit that you don't know everything and can't do everything." Chapters00:00 The Essence of Leadership01:33 From Rural Roots to Legal Expertise06:08 Key Leadership Moments and Mentorship11:32 Navigating the Legal Landscape16:09 Decision-Making Under Pressure21:26 The Power of Persuasion23:27 Integrity and Ethics in Law26:26 Transitioning to New Ventures31:01 The Importance of Preparation36:04 Creativity in Leadership39:42 Rapid Fire Leadership Lessons Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  13. 7

    Ken Rochon: Stop Chasing Visibility. Start Amplifying Others.

    For Your Leadership Toolkitevery leader should be able to tell their storystorytelling is a powerful tool for inspiring othersoptimism can be a strategic advantage in leadershipa leader's role is to serve others and amplify their goodnessintegrity and initiative are foundational to effective leadershipleaders should aim to create more leadersemotional intelligence is crucial in leadershipadversity can shape and strengthen leadership valuesevery leader should consider writing a book to share their messagea leader's life is their message to the world Sound bites"Your life is your message.""Leaders elevate those around them.""Every leader should do a book.""Integrity is first." Chapters00:00 The Essence of Leadership Storytelling04:08 From DJ to Dr. Smiley: A Journey of Purpose08:01 The Keep Smiling Movement and Leadership11:53 The Power of Storytelling in Leadership15:46 Lessons from Adversity: Shaping Leadership Values20:14 Rapid Fire Insights on Leadership Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  14. 6

    Larry Broughton: From Special Forces to the C-Suite - Why Leadership Isn’t Optional

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:leadership is about taking action aggressivelyearned leadership is tested in real-life situationskey elements of leadership include motivation, integrity, tenacity, courage, and humility (MITCH)many leaders lack training in effective leadership skillschoosing the hard right over the easy wrong is crucialclarity in communication is essential for effective leadershipcontingency planning is vital for navigating uncertaintiescompassion must be balanced with high standards in leadershipsuccess is defined by the legacy we leave behindlove is an underrated trait in leadership Sound bites"Confused minds don't buy."“Choose the hard right over the easy wrong.”"You must serve to succeed.""Success looks like freedom." Chapters00:00 The Importance of Taking Action02:32 Larry Broughton's Leadership Journey08:03 Key Elements of Exceptional Leadership13:07 The Challenges of Leadership Development                       16:34 Choosing the Hard Right Over the Easy Wrong18:02 The Role of Clarity in Leadership22:05 The Need for Action and Contingency Planning27:07 Balancing Compassion and Standards in Leadership31:58 Defining Success Beyond Titles and Money Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  15. 5

    Jeff Ross: The Caffeinated Kangaroo Approach to Leadership

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:first earn to lead yourselfdevelop resilience; endure setbacks, adapt, and keep moving forwardlean into emotional intelligence, first with self-awareness, then outwardly with empathypractice love andcompassion, showing respect, patience, forgiveness, and care for othershave the mindset of a values-driven leader, with decisions guided by clear principles, not conveniencebe disciplined with consistent habits, structure, and personal operating systemsprioritize strategicallyfocusing on what matters mostbe adaptable; read widely and apply learning, use tools wisely, and think flexiblySound bites“If you can't lead yourself, how can you lead others? And if you can't love yourself, how can you love others?"“So I've just been obsessed with what I call story selling.”“Leaders are readers, but more than just readers, they’re ‘appliers’."“This whole thing about work life balance … It's a myth … What we need to have is an integrated lifestyle, integrated balance.”Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership with Purpose03:40 Transformative Life Experiences09:38 The Power of Love in Leadership11:41 Becoming the Caffeinated Kangaroo17:35 Integrating Family and Work Life22:46 Final Thoughts and Quickfire Questions Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  16. 4

    Debbie Allen: Leadership Without a Safety Net

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:taking risks is a fundamental aspect of entrepreneurial leadershipthe importance of mentorship in achieving successsuccess can be easier with the right mindset and guidanceeffective communication is crucial for inspiring teams and leading effectivelyleaders should focus on creating a legacy and making a difference in the worldover-communication is better than under-communication in leadership rolesmindset shifts are essential for adopting a success-oriented mentalityleaders should learn to think and act like entrepreneursleadership is about taking ownership and being proactiveChapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership Journeys02:00 Debbie Allen's Entrepreneurial Journey06:10 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship10:25 Creating a Legacy in Leadership15:25 Mindset Shifts for Success19:28 Communication Habits of Effective Leaders24:34 Rapid Fire Q&A with Debbie Allen  Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  17. 3

    Dave Sanderson: Miracle on the Hudson

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:in moments of crisis, clarity about personal values often emergesteamwork is essential in crisis situations; everyone must work togetherleadership manifests without formal titles in critical momentspanic can hinder action; urgency drives necessary responsessituational awareness is crucial for effective leadershippast experiences can prepare you for future challengesimportance of humility and gratitude in leadershipChapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Resilience01:46 The Miracle on the Hudson: A Life-Changing Experience06:59 Moments of Clarity: Life Lessons in Crisis12:33 Leadership in Crisis: Teamwork and Decision Making17:39 Panic vs. Urgency: The Importance of Composure22:06 Situational Leadership in Crisis28:08 The Journey to Speaking and Leadership Consulting Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

  18. 2

    Craig Duswalt: From Guns N’ Roses To Rockstar Leadership

    For Your Leadership Toolkit:leadership can be shaped by unconventional experienceshigh-pressure environments teach valuable leadership lessonsopen communication is essential in both personal and professional relationshipsexperience is the best teacher for aspiring leaderscreativity and innovation are crucial for effective leadershipdiscipline and daily habits are key to successeffective leaders learn from both good and bad examplesimportance of adaptability in a rapidly changing worldChapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership Journeys02:48 From Rock Tours to Leadership Insights06:06 Lessons from Axl Rose and Guns N' Roses09:03 Navigating Career Changes and Young Leadership11:52 The Importance of Experience in Leadership14:51 Communication as a Leadership Tool18:03 Creativity and Innovation in Leadership21:03 Using AI for Creative Marketing Solutions24:02 Discipline and Daily Habits of Leaders26:55 The Role of Communication in Relationships29:55 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Adaptability Connect with Merv at www.PeopleFirstProjectManagement.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/merv.jersak/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mervjersak/

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Most organizations don’t fail because of bad strategy, weak technology, or poor processes. They fail because leadership breaks down in the human moments of execution.The Lead With Purpose Podcast, hosted by leadership consultant and former IT project executive Merv Jersak, explores the real disciplines that determine whether teams struggle under pressure or perform with clarity and cohesion.After four decades working inside complex organizations, Merv saw the same pattern repeated everywhere: high-performing producers promoted into leadership roles but rarely trained in the skills required to guide people through conflict, uncertainty, competing priorities, and organizational pressure.This podcast focuses on those leadership skills.Through conversations with experienced leaders, coaches, and professionals, you’ll hear practical insights on how strong leaders steady themselves under pressure, build trust that speeds collaboration, align teams around shared goals, make disciplined de

HOSTED BY

Merv Jersak

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