The Action Catalyst

Mortgage professional Jennifer Bennett and professional coach Shelly Smith share a powerful story of resilience, mindset transformation, and business growth through coaching. Bennett discusses rebuilding her career after a difficult divorce and personal setbacks, revealing how limiting self-talk, stress, and a lack of control were holding her back from regaining top performance in sales. With Smith’s guidance, she learned to reframe negative thoughts, focus on what she could control, and intentionally reshape her mindset to overcome adversity, improve productivity, and rebuild client relationships. The conversation highlights the critical role of coaching in personal development, the impact of mindset on sales success, and how shifting from fear and scarcity to belief, focus, and gratitude can drive both professional achievement and personal fulfillment.

Bestselling author and researcher Tom Rath explains that meaning—not happiness—is the key to fulfillment, emphasizing that focusing on helping others, leveraging strengths, and connecting daily work to a larger purpose leads to higher productivity and better outcomes. Hear Tom's full interview in Episode 185 of The Action Catalyst.

Janice Kapner, former communications leader at Microsoft and T‑Mobile, shares expert insights on navigating high‑stakes corporate transformation, mergers and acquisitions, and leadership without formal authority. Drawing on her experience leading communications during the largest telecom merger in U.S. history, Kapner explains how transparency, strategic storytelling, and consistent stakeholder communication are critical to maintaining trust, credibility, and momentum throughout multi‑year integration processes. She highlights common leadership mistakes—such as underestimating resource needs and post‑merger execution—and emphasizes the importance of understanding business fundamentals, building cross‑functional relationships, and earning credibility over time. The conversation also explores lessons from launching Office 365 at Microsoft, working alongside Bill Gates, and more.

Monica Nassif, founder of Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day and Caldrea, explains how bravery is like a muscle, and why it's only one of the many essential attributes for a successful entrepreneur.Hear Monica's full interview in Episode 505 of The Action Catalyst.

Bestselling author and researcher Tom Rath shares insights from his book "Are You Fully Charged?" on how to improve performance, well‑being, and engagement at work and in life. Rath explains that meaning—not happiness—is the key to fulfillment, emphasizing that focusing on helping others, leveraging strengths, and connecting daily work to a larger purpose leads to higher productivity and better outcomes. He explores how personal energy, including sleep, movement, and health, directly impacts cognitive performance, leadership effectiveness, and workplace success, while warning against the dangers of distraction, especially from smartphones, which reduce attention and relationship quality. The episode also highlights how emotions and behaviors spread through social networks, influencing teams and organizations, and why leaders must prioritize well‑being and purpose to build stronger cultures.

Dr. Barb Rembiesa, founder and CEO of the International Association of IT Asset Management, shares how a small act of kindness on her part led to an enormously outsized impact on the residents of a small Kentucky town.Hear Dr. Rembiesa's full interview in her special bonus episode of The Action Catalyst.

Monica Nassif, founder of Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day and Caldrea, reveals hard‑earned lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, and building a successful consumer brand from the ground up. Nassif emphasizes the importance of simplicity, resilience, and belief—highlighted through her “plant, water, weed, believe” philosophy—as well as the mindset that failure is simply learning. She explains how successful entrepreneurs must commit fully, embrace risk, and develop bravery over time while pairing self-awareness with a big, disruptive business idea. The conversation explores key startup principles including preparation, market research, financial discipline, and having “skin in the game,” along with practical advice on raising capital, overcoming fear, and executing with urgency when opportunity strikes, as well as the value of creativity, hard work, and perseverance as essential “superpowers".Mentioned in this episode:Click here to get your copy of the Problem-First Method.Kevin Dias / Problem First MethodClick here to get your copy of the Problem-First Method.Kevin Dias / Problem First Method

New York Times bestselling author Darren Hardy explains how, in truth, EVERYONE is an entrepreneur, but how being a TRUE entrepreneur means leaving the “herd,” which often generates criticism, isolation, and resistance from peers.Hear Darren's full interview in Episode 93 of The Action Catalyst.

Dr. Barb Rembiesa, founder and CEO of the International Association of IT Asset Management, shares how small, intentional acts of kindness can create outsized impact in leadership, business, and everyday life. Drawing on her experience building IAITAM into the world’s leading authority on IT asset management and guiding organizations through technology compliance, AI governance, and digital transformation, Dr. Rembiesa explains how “nothings” — simple actions that cost little time or money — can strengthen workplace culture, build trust, and deliver real ROI by restoring humanity to business. This episode offers practical insights for leaders seeking to integrate compassion, intentional listening, and purpose‑driven generosity into a sustainable business strategy.

Meg Tuohey, licensed psychologist, author, speaker, and host of the Wisdom Stripes podcast, introduces the concept of "heartprint"—the unique inner blueprint that guides fulfillment, purpose, and growth, and explains how high‑achieving women can feel successful yet emotionally numb, and a bit of the neuroscience behind elite performance.Hear Meg's full interview in her special bonus episode of The Action Catalyst.

New York Times bestselling author Darren Hardy delivers a candid and practical look at why most entrepreneurs fail—and how to beat the odds. Hardy explains that the 66% small‑business failure rate is driven less by external factors like capital or competition and more by internal, emotional unpreparedness, lack of focus, and unrealistic expectations about the entrepreneurial journey. He explores the psychological cost of leaving the “herd,” including criticism, isolation, and resistance from peers, and reframes these challenges as evidence of progress, as well as covers effective sales as a discipline rooted in questioning and listening rather than pitching, the dangers of distraction in the modern digital age, and the importance of developing intense focus, discipline, and personal responsibility.

Hal Elrod, bestselling author of "The Miracle Morning", shares the experience that set him down the path to self-improvement, and the snooze‑proof wake‑up strategy that KEEPS him on that path each day.Hear Hal's full interview in Episode 53 of The Action Catalyst.

Meg Tuohey, licensed psychologist, author, speaker, and host of the Wisdom Stripes podcast, explores why modern self‑help culture often fails women by encouraging self‑override instead of self‑trust, and introduces the concept of "heartprint"—the unique inner blueprint that guides fulfillment, purpose, and growth. Learn how high‑achieving women can feel successful yet emotionally numb, why intuition is a critical emotional survival skill, utilizing emotional literacy and relational intelligence in leadership, the neuroscience of burnout and elite performance, and how self‑attunement enables clearer decision‑making in both personal and professional environments. With insights grounded in psychology and lived experience, this episode offers a powerful reframing of personal growth, leadership, and well‑being for women navigating ambition, identity, and modern self‑help messaging.

Dr. Tony Alessandra, founder of Assessments 24x7, addresses the lessons he learned from failure, and how learning when to say "no" is the REAL test of your goals and objectives.Hear Dr. Alessandra's full interview in Episode 504 of The Action Catalyst.

Hal Elrod, bestselling author of "The Miracle Morning", shares the life‑changing philosophy behind his globally influential morning routine, recounts his extraordinary journey from being clinically dead after a head‑on collision with a drunk driver and weathering financial collapse, to overcoming the odds. Learn about the six core practices that help individuals improve health, income, mindset, and relationships, the snooze‑proof wake‑up strategy, a powerful morning routine speed-run for busy schedules, and why success is driven by who you become daily.Mentioned in this episode:Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh: Leading Today, Transforming Tomorrow. Click here to learn more.Create Your Own Luck / Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

In this cut-for-time clip from Episode 504 of The Action Catalyst, Dr. Tony Alessandra, founder of Assessments 24x7 shares how when it was time to leave the speaking circuit, he looked to a few MLB greats for guidance...Hear the rest of Dr. Alessandra's interview in Episode 504 of The Action Catalyst.

John Livesay, funding strategist and author, reveals how to structure a winning pitch, grab attention in the first 90 seconds, and position the founder as the “jockey” investors want to back. Hear John's full interview in Episode 145 of The Action Catalyst.

Overtime with Outland is Action Catalyst host Adam Outland's reflections and commentary on discussions with each of his esteemed and accomplished guests.In this segment, Adam dissects Episode 504 with Dr. Tony Alessandra, founder of Assessments 24x7.

Dr. Tony Alessandra, founder of Assessments 24x7 and a pioneering authority in personality assessments, sales psychology, and leadership development, shares insights from more than five decades in the assessment and training industry. In this conversation, Alessandra recounts his journey from door‑to‑door sales and academic leadership to creating widely used assessments that help individuals and organizations improve communication, adaptability, and performance. He explains how modern assessments drive personal growth, better hiring decisions, stronger leadership, and more effective teamwork, and also explores his creation of the "Platinum Rule", lessons learned from failure, the importance of listening and adaptability, and why simplicity, practicality, and focus are essential for long‑term business success.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more at SouthwesternConsulting.com/Coaching/StudentsSouthwestern Student CoachingDr. Jeremy S. Owoh: Leading Today, Transforming Tomorrow. Click here to learn more.Create Your Own Luck / Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

Entrepreneur Julie Wainwright, founder and former CEO of unicorn company TheRealReal, shares the importance of relying on data and balancing passion with objectivity as you both start, and scale, your business.Hear Julie's full interview in Episode 503 of The Action Catalyst.

John Livesay, funding strategist and author, reveals expert insights into how entrepreneurs and startup founders can craft compelling investor pitches that win funding, including a shift from feature‑based presentations to emotionally driven storytelling, how to structure a winning pitch, grab attention in the first 90 seconds, demonstrate traction, show empathy for both customers and investors, and position the founder as the “jockey” investors want to back. Livesay also covers practical startup fundraising strategies, including angel investing, venture capital, valuations, and family offices, making this episode a must‑listen for entrepreneurs looking to raise capital and communicate their vision with clarity and confidence.Mentioned in this episode:Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh: Leading Today, Transforming Tomorrow. Click here to learn more.Create Your Own Luck / Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

John Ruhlin, entrepreneur, speaker, and author of "Giftology", offers guidance on when to give, how much to spend, and how to calculate ROI on gifting to clients or prospects.Hear John's full interview in Episode 173 of The Action Catalyst.

Entrepreneur Julie Wainwright, founder and former CEO of unicorn company TheRealReal, shares the candid story behind building a billion-dollar luxury resale company after being told at age 52 that she was “unemployable", discusses overcoming public failure, fear, ageism, and gender bias in tech, how her experience at Pets.com shaped her resilience, and the disciplined, data-driven mindset she used to create and scale a disruptive e‑commerce business. Other topics include identifying unmet consumer pain points, balancing passion with objectivity, and practical advice for founders navigating fundraising.Mentioned in this episode:Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh: Leading Today, Transforming Tomorrow. Click here to learn more.Create Your Own Luck / Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

Lifang He, brand strategist, and former leader at Apple, Amazon, Ring, and Bloomberg, explains how branding is a truly wholistic experience, and one that doesn't stop after you've come up with a name and logo...every interaction matters.Hear Lifang's full interview in her special bonus episode of The Action Catalyst.

John Ruhlin, entrepreneur, speaker, and author of "Giftology", shares his proven philosophy of strategic generosity in business relationships, and how thoughtful, personalized, and unexpected gifting can dramatically strengthen client loyalty, drive referrals, and differentiate brands in crowded markets. He breaks down the psychology behind giving, the importance of investing in top‑tier relationships, and why experiences and personal details matter more than price, but also offers practical guidance on when to give, how much to spend, and how to calculate ROI on gifting.

Best-selling author and counselor Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, explains what the 5 love languages ARE, and how to translate the languages into the workplace. Hear Dr. Chapman's full interview in Episode 206 of The Action Catalyst.

Lifang He, brand strategist, and former leader at Apple, Amazon, Ring, and Bloomberg, explores why brand strategy and product strategy must be inseparable for modern tech success, drawing on firsthand experience launching global products like the iPhone and Amazon Pharmacy. The conversation covers common branding misconceptions in tech, lessons from Apple’s integrated product‑brand philosophy, how Ring’s rebrand unlocked long‑term growth, what Nike’s $28 billion misstep teaches leaders about short‑term performance, and why strong brand identity is a critical differentiator in an AI‑driven, oversaturated market.Mentioned in this episode:This episode is presented by Greg Mickelsen and "Best Practice or Pitfall?" Learn more or get the book at www.BestPracticePlaybook.com.Greg Mickelsen's Best Practice or Pitfall?This episode is presented by Greg Mickelsen and "Best Practice or Pitfall?" Learn more or get the book at www.BestPracticePlaybook.com.Greg Mickelsen's Best Practice or Pitfall?

"America's Career Coach" and author Ken Coleman discusses the evolving workplace in the age of AI, emphasizing the value of human connection, soft skills, and relationships, and reflecting on challenges facing younger generations—especially diminished curiosity and difficulty asking good questions.Hear Ken's full interview in Episode 502 of The Action Catalyst.

Best-selling author and counselor Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, explores how his foundational relationship framework helps couples, families, and leaders communicate love and appreciation more effectively, and why mismatched love languages often cause emotional disconnects. He also shares practical strategies for nurturing quality time, recognizing children’s emotional needs, and translating the languages into the workplace. Chapman also clarifies the circumstances that may cause someone's language to shift, and which aspects remain stable over time.

Speaker, author, and adventurer Rob Lilwall explains what he means by having the "attitude of adventure", and how those principles map onto tasks or goals in everyday life.Hear Rob's full interview in Episode 127 of The Action Catalyst.

Overtime with Outland is Action Catalyst host Adam Outland's reflections and commentary on discussions with each of his esteemed and accomplished guests.In this segment, Adam dissects Episode 502 with "America's Career Coach" and best-selling author Ken Coleman.

"America's Career Coach" and author Ken Coleman discusses parenting, curiosity, and the evolving workplace in the age of AI, emphasizing the value of human connection, soft skills, and relationships, and reflecting on challenges facing younger generations—especially diminished curiosity and difficulty asking good questions—while advocating for major reforms to the U.S. education system to focus more on critical thinking, creativity, experiential learning, and reduced standardized testing. Coleman also explores the importance of overcoming limiting personal narratives, building self‑awareness, and embracing mitigated risk in career development, and shares insights on coaching, the role of technology in gathering data, his own personal growth and reading habits, and the lifelong tension between progress, patience, and controlling what one can control.Mentioned in this episode:Learn more at SouthwesternConsulting.com/Coaching/StudentsSouthwestern Student CoachingEmpowering Parents; Transforming Families. Parenting in Practice is designed specifically for parents of teens and young adults, providing tools and support to help you navigate these pivotal years with confidence.Parenting In Practice

Tax strategist Carlotta Thompson explains how the IRS TRULY operates, what they actually ARE and ARE NOT looking for, and highlights the most common audit triggers to avoid.Hear Carlotta's full interview in her special bonus episode of The Action Catalyst.

Speaker, author, and adventurer Rob Lilwall shares hard-earned lessons from decades of outrageous expeditions, including tips on assessing risk, why there's more fear in anticipation than execution, having the attitude of adventure, and the mental importance of forward momentum.

Speaker, author, and the CEO of the Booher Research Institute, Dianna Booher, explains the one question leaders MUST have an answer for, and how to respond to it.Hear Dianna's full interview in Episode 203 of The Action Catalyst.

Tax strategist Carlotta Thompson explores her unique early start in tax law, her years as an IRS enrolled agent, and what it taught her about helping business owners legally reduce their tax burden through smarter planning and compliance. Thompson explains how the IRS TRULY operates, and highlights the most common audit triggers, and how tools like cost segregation, opportunity zones, family‑office‑style investing, business acquisitions, and real estate tax strategies can significantly reduce tax liability when implemented correctly, and discusses the limits of AI in accounting, as well as key red flags to watch for when hiring accountants.

Speaker, author, and the CEO of the Booher Research Institute, Dianna Booher, explains how, when it comes to building credibility with someone, people tend to average rather than add.Hear Dianna's full interview in Episode 73 of The Action Catalyst.

Speaker, author, and the CEO of the Booher Research Institute, Dianna Booher, explains the difference between a leader and a manager, the one question leaders MUST have an answer for, what is meant by “spray painting” on social media, how to talk to millennials about career development, why you fire people to be fair, the ideal format for communicating with the C-Suite, and the essence of leadership communication.

Jason Wild, an author, strategist, and former leader at Salesforce, IBM, and Microsoft, shares the revealing story of how a creative intern at the Waldorf Astoria saved a ton of money and time with a creative solution to an abstract problem.Hear Jason's full interview in Episode 501 of The Action Catalyst.

Speaker, author, and the CEO of the Booher Research Institute, Dianna Booher, shares the lessons we can learn from politics about communication, mistakes we often make in non-verbal communication, what to do when trust is eroded, averaging rather than adding credibility, and tips to telling a story vs a narrative, and which is more powerful.

Best-selling author and time management coach Elizabeth Saunders explains why traditional time management has given way to "time investment", and the priority-based decision making technique that creates the greatest ROI for your time.Hear Elizabeth's full interview in Episode 102 of The Action Catalyst.

Jason Wild, an author, strategist, and former leader at Salesforce, IBM, and Microsoft, addresses misconceptions around what innovation is and isn't and the way leadership can help or hinder it, creating culture, the as-of-yet unmet promise of AI, the ABC's inside of organizations, how a creative intern at the Waldorf Astoria saved a ton of money and time with a creative solution to an abstract problem, identifying who the customer REALLY is and what you're REALLY selling, and the strangely important lessons he learned from being a child actor.

Action Catalyst hosts Adam Outland, Stephanie Maas, and Dan Moore share an early blunder in hosting, reflect on the critical nature of staying curious, and explain the profound personal impact of the podcast.Hear the full roundtable discussion in Episode 500 of The Action Catalyst.

Best-selling author and time management coach Elizabeth Saunders explains why more input doesn’t equal more busy, and shares ways to expertly manage email, use text expanders, define "time investment", and get clarity from your calendar, plus breaks down techniques like the I.N.O. method, and priority-based decision making.

Hall of Fame speaker, author, and human behavior expert Connie Podesta breaks down the differences between relaters vs bottom-liners, and how those differences manifest in everything from a sales relationship, to a marriage.Hear Connie's full interview in Episode 34 of The Action Catalyst.

Action Catalyst hosts past and present unite to mark a major milestone; the 500th episode of The Action Catalyst. The trio of Adam Outland, Stephanie Maas, and Dan Moore gather and reflect on their favorite guests, lessons learned, mistakes made, and the impact, both personal and professional, that the podcast has had on them over the years.

Tom Bilyeu, co-founder of unicorn company Quest Nutrition and CEO of Impact Theory, explains what "The Matrix" is for him, and how his life's purpose is to help pull people out of it.Hear Tom's full interview in Episode 198 of The Action Catalyst.

Hall of Fame speaker, author, and human behavior expert Connie Podesta explains why EVERYTHING is sales, breaks down the difference between relaters vs bottom-liners, and shares how the person doing the selling should be the person to have to shoulder any discomfort in a situation….but why people are reluctant to do so.

Internationally renowned psychologist and author Dr. Guy Winch reveals the biggest misconceptions about work-life balance, and how the pandemic presented an opportunity that didn't quite pan out.Hear Dr. Winch's full interview in his special bonus episode of The Action Catalyst.

Tom Bilyeu, co-founder of unicorn company Quest Nutrition and CEO of Impact Theory, lays out the impact of acting for ONE vs many, talks about making their own manufacturing equipment, pulling people out of The Matrix, becoming the new Disney and adopting a Jedi mindset, and waxes poetic on the impossibility of impossibility.