Leadership Rules

🎧 Leadership Rules with Jeff Utecht Title: AI Can Predict. Humans Must Decide.AI is moving fast. But are we moving thoughtfully?In this episode of Leadership Rules, Nick and Marnie sit down with Jeff Utecht, educator, speaker, and author of Human Still Required, to explore what leadership looks like in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.Jeff brings a powerful reminder: the real risk is not that AI replaces us. It’s that we stop thinking for ourselves.In this conversation, we explore:• Why “cognitive surrender” is a growing concern in the age of AI • The difference between prediction and true understanding • Why judgment is the one skill AI cannot replace • How leaders should rethink effort, productivity, and performance • What it means to lead through a double transition in the workplaceJeff also shares why listening may be the most underrated leadership skill right now—and how staying curious is the key to navigating rapid change.If you care about leadership, education, or staying human in a tech-driven world, this episode will challenge how you think about both AI and your role in it.📍 Learn more and connect with Jeff Utecht Website → https://jeffutecht.com Book → https://humanstillrequired.com Podcast → Shifting SchoolsSubscribe for more conversations on leadership, learning, and what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing world.#LeadershipRules #JeffUtecht #HumanStillRequired #AILeadership #FutureOfWork #CriticalThinking #StayHuman

🎧 Leadership Rules with Matt Miller Title: Keep the Main Thing the Main ThingAI is everywhere. So what actually matters now?In this episode of Leadership Rules, Nick and Marnie sit down with Matt Miller, educator, author of AI Literacy in Any Class, and creator of the Ditch That Textbook movement, to talk about how teaching and leadership are evolving in an AI saturated world.Matt challenges the idea that we need more tools and instead focuses on something more important.Better thinking.In this conversation, we explore:• Why “ditch the textbook” is really about ditching passive learning • How AI literacy shows up in everyday classroom moments • Why students don’t need to master the tech, but must learn to question it • The risk of going all in or all out on technology • Why critical thinking, discernment, and creativity matter more than everMatt also shares practical ways to bring AI into the classroom without losing the human element, including how to use imperfect AI outputs to spark deeper thinking and discussion.If you care about education, leadership, or preparing students for a future we cannot fully predict, this episode will reshape how you think about both technology and teaching.📍 Learn more and connect with Matt Miller Newsletter → https://ditch.link/join Book → AI Literacy in Any Class available on AmazonSubscribe for more conversations on leadership, learning, and what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing world.#LeadershipRules #MattMiller #AILiteracy #EducationLeadership #CriticalThinking #DitchThatTextbook

🎧 Leadership Rules with Scott Martin Title: Success Isn’t the Goal. Flourishing Is.What if the goal of school wasn’t just success… but flourishing?In this episode of Leadership Rules, Nick and Marnie sit down with Dr. Scott Martin, Executive Director of the Odyssey Leadership Academy, to talk about how leadership can create environments where both students and educators truly thrive.Scott believes that leadership is both art and science, and that great leaders carry a deep responsibility to care for the people in their community. He also challenges many traditional assumptions about school, including grades, agency, and what real learning looks like.In this conversation, we explore:• The difference between leadership and management • Why the leader sets the “nervous system” of an organization • How flourishing can become a school’s North Star • What happens when students are given real agency in their learning • Why resilience grows when students create learning instead of just consuming itScott also shares how Odyssey Leadership Academy empowers students to design projects, teach classes, and even build real-world solutions like a student-built tiny home.If you care about leadership, education, and building cultures where people thrive, this episode will challenge the way you think about success.📍 Learn more about Odyssey Leadership Academy https://OdysseyLeadershipAcademy.orgSubscribe for more conversations about leadership, character, and building organizations where people flourish.#LeadershipRules #ScottMartin #EducationLeadership #HumanFlourishing #SchoolLeadership #StudentAgency

🎧 Leadership Rules with EJ Carrion Title: Think in Decades, Not DaysWhat does it mean to lead in a world where students are living three lives at once?Personal life.School life.Phone life.In this high energy conversation, EJ Carrion challenges us to rethink education, leadership, and what it means to prepare young people for a future that looks nothing like the past.EJ is the co founder of Student Success Agency, a first generation college graduate, Gates Millennium Scholar, and someone who believes schools must evolve from Blockbuster to Netflix if they want to stay relevant.In this episode, we talk about:• Why the phone is not just a distraction but a door• What a “digital YMCA” could look like for students• How to build agency in young people• Why leadership is art, not science• What it means to be a pirate ship leader instead of the Navy• And why selflessness is compound interestEJ also shares three principles that guide his leadership:Think in decades instead of daysSelflessness is compound interestChoose we instead of meIf you care about student success, digital culture, human connection, or the future of public education, this one will stretch your thinking.📍 Connect with EJ CarrionLinkedIn → EJ Carrion Subscribe for more conversations that challenge how we lead, learn, and live.#LeadershipRules #EJCarrion #StudentSuccess #EducationLeadership #DigitalAge #ThinkInDecades #WeInsteadOfMe

🎧 New Episode: Leadership Rules with Dr. Doan Winkel Title: Say No More OftenWhat does it take to be a bold, curious, values-driven leader in today’s world of education and entrepreneurship?Dr. Doan Winkel joins Marnie and Nick for a powerful conversation about disrupting the status quo, helping students find their voice, and saying no to anything that doesn’t serve your mission.In this episode, we explore:✅ Why "titleless" leadership might be the most powerful kind ✅ How higher ed trains students to wait for permission ✅ How AI can free teachers to focus on what really matters ✅ What tiny acts of courage do to build momentum ✅ And why authenticity is the new authorityIf you’ve ever wanted to lead with more clarity, curiosity, and purpose — this one’s for you.📍 Connect with Doan Winkel LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/doanwinkel/ Substack → https://howtoteachwithai.substack.com/🎧 Listen, rate, and follow for more leadership conversations that blend insight, inspiration, and a little bit of rebellion.#LeadershipRules #DoanWinkel #EntrepreneurshipEducation #SayNoMoreOften #HigherEdInnovation #AuthenticLeadership #AIinEducation

🎮 New Episode: Anthony Conta on Games, Growth, and Getting Unstuck Title: Make Your Next Move a GameThis week on Leadership Rules, Anthony Conta brings the fun. He’s a UX designer, product strategist, professor, and the creator of Funemployed (now Bad Interviews). Oh, and he once taught chess to preschoolers.In this episode, Anthony joins Marnie and Nick to talk about the intersections of design, teaching, creativity, and career reinvention. It’s part improv show, part product jam session, and all-around inspiration.In this episode, you’ll hear:🎲 Why career detours are often the best part of the story 🎓 How teaching forces clarity in leadership 🧠 Why UX and leadership both start with empathy 📦 How Anthony designed a hands-on UX textbook that doesn’t suck 🏁 And why “just start” might be the best advice no one takesThis one’s for the curious, the creative, and the career shape-shifters. If you’ve ever wondered what’s next, Anthony makes a strong case for playing your way into the answer.📍 Connect with Anthony Conta LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyconta/ Medium → https://medium.com/@anthonyconta🎲 Check out Bad Interviews (formerly Funemployed) wherever you buy your games. 📘 Grab The Art and Science of UX Design online or at your favorite bookstore.Subscribe for more conversations with rule breakers, design thinkers, and everyday leaders redefining what it means to show up with curiosity.#LeadershipRules #AnthonyConta #UXDesign #CareerPath #BadInterviews #GameDesign #CuriousLeadership

🎧 New Episode: Leadership Rules with Dr. John Barile Title: Leading From the CoreIn this episode, Dr. John Barile joins Nick and Marnie to talk about what it really means to lead with purpose, clarity, and character. As an experienced school leader and author of Leading from the Core, John brings both heart and strategy to a conversation about trust, team culture, and the evolving role of leadership in education and beyond.He shares insights on how to lead through change, why authenticity builds influence, and what it takes to create schools — and workplaces — people actually want to be part of.Whether you're in education or any leadership role, this episode will challenge you to reconnect with what matters most and lead from a deeper place.📍 Connect with Dr. John Barile 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-john-w-barile-sr-33bab5169/📖 Leading from the Core now available wherever books are sold.Subscribe for more conversations that explore leadership, purpose, and how to build something meaningful — from the inside out.#LeadershipRules #JohnBarile #LeadingFromTheCore #SchoolLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #TeamCulture

🎧 New Episode: Leadership Rules with Leah LeverichTitle: Redefining Success: How Curiosity and Courage Shape Career PathsWhat if the best leadership move you ever made was not going to college?In this episode of Leadership Rules, we sit down with Leah Leverich — host of the Decision Day podcast and Brand Manager at Big Brand Ventures — to explore what it means to take an unconventional path with purpose. Leah shares how she navigated the decision to skip college, why she launched a podcast about career journeys, and how curiosity continues to shape her leadership voice.You’ll hear:✨ Why “follow your passion” can be confusing (and what to ask instead)🛣️ The power of job shadowing for self-discovery📦 How to reframe comparison and own your choices🎤 What podcasting taught Leah about listening, leadership, and community🧭 And why courage sometimes means doing what most people won’tWhether you're mentoring a young leader or rethinking your own path, this conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn’t one-size-fits-all.📬 Reach Leah directly via [email protected], or at LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-leverich/ 🔗 Explore more from Leah → Decision Day on Instagram💼 Check out Big Brand Ventures → bigbrandventures.com

What do NIL deals, career centers, and AI mentors have in common?They all show up in this week’s Leadership Rules conversation with Don Philabaum—a serial entrepreneur, innovator, and author who’s been preparing students and leaders for “what’s next” long before most people saw it coming.Don joins Nick and Marnie to explore how curiosity, adaptability, and human connection still beat out chaos and tech hype every time.In this episode, Don shares:🔗 Why human connection is the one competitive advantage AI can’t replicate 🎓 What career centers must do now to stay relevant 🤖 Why Gen Z understands AI better than most professionals ⚽ What the NIL era can teach all of us about career development 🧠 And why people do business with people—even in the age of botsPlus:What it's like to launch virtual career coaches before ChatGPT was coolHow to rewire fear of change into fuel for leadershipAnd what student athletes and CEOs both need from their mentors📍 Learn more about Don Philabaum: 🌐 Athlete Career Training 🌐 Talk to Me 24x7

What do school safety, confidence in chaos, and sneaking into a Michael Jackson concert have in common?All of them show up in this week’s Leadership Rules episode with Dr. Roderick “Rocky” Sams—a passionate educator and school safety leader who believes preparation isn’t just a strategy. It’s a mindset.Rocky joins Nick and Marnie to talk about how leading well starts with knowing yourself, investing in what matters, and showing up ready—even when the opportunity hasn’t arrived yet.In this episode, Rocky shares:🔐 The critical link between psychological safety and physical safety 🧠 How clarity, calm, and curiosity build real leadership presence 📚 Why he believes personalized learning is more possible now than ever 🏖️ How scheduling monthly “timeouts” with his wife helps him lead better 🔘 What Centegix is doing to transform school safety with one simple buttonPlus:The one question every leader should ask before speakingWhy struggle is often the best teacherThe story of a young Rocky Sams sneaking into a stadium for a life-changing concert👀 Bonus: Rocky’s message to educators about finding joy again—even in the chaos.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.📍 Connect with Dr. Roderick Sams: 🔗 LinkedIn 📧 [email protected]

What do undefeated teams, AV carts, and prosthetic legs have in common?They all show up in this week’s conversation with educator and coach Rob Elia—and every story points to the same truth:🏆 Leadership isn’t about winning. It’s about trust.In this episode, Rob joins Nick and Marnie to talk about:🎾 Coaching through culture, not just competition🧠 Why confidence is a performance multiplier🛠️ How to build trust that actually sticks📉 Why you shouldn’t rescue people too soon👟 And the real reason some losses matter more than winsPlus:How to lead when your kid isn’t the starterWhy culture doesn’t start with hype, but with habitsThe moment one player’s return from cancer taught the entire team what leadership really means👀 Bonus: Rob explains why his undefeated record matters way less than the way his team practiced every day to earn it.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.📍 Find Rob Elia:https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertvelia/Check out the podcast Rob hosts: Leader’s Edge Podcast in association with the New Jersey Association of Educational Leaders

How do you go from wallflower to world-class connector?Jason Croft didn’t just figure it out—he reverse-engineered the process.In this episode, Jason joins Nick and Marnie to talk about leadership, networking (especially for introverts), and how to build “market gravity”—the pull that makes you the inevitable choice for the people you want to serve.Jason is the host of Strategy + Action, a brand and storytelling strategist, and the guy who once read The Tipping Point and decided—on the spot—to become a connector. A year later? People were calling him for introductions.In this conversation, Jason shares:🧲 Why visibility isn’t enough—you need gravity🎯 What most people get wrong about standing out🛠️ How to build confidence through evidence🎤 Why podcasting might be the best networking tool on earth🙋‍♂️ And the one leadership rule that changed everything: Lead yourself first.Plus:What to say when you're stuck at a networking event (and don’t know a soul)Why introverts make the best interviewersThe truth about “accidental leaders”—and how to know if you are one👀 Bonus: Jason reveals the bold decision that transformed his career—and how you can do the same (without faking a personality transplant).🎧 Listen to the episode now.📍 Find Jason Croft:https://thejasoncroft.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncroft/

What do Sour Patch Kids, Target run-ins, and dinner-table confessions have to do with leadership? According to Derrick Kinney—everything.In this episode, Derrick joins Nick and Marnie to talk about raising confident, character-driven leaders (especially teens), building trust through imperfection, and why financial education is really just leadership training in disguise.Derrick is the founder of the Good Money Framework, the creator of Simple Teen Success, and the kind of guy who listens to audiobooks at 1.75x speed and rips out the pages he’s actually going to implement. (Yes, really.)In this conversation, Derrick shares:🧠 Why kids don’t want lectures—they want lessons (and candy) 🧃 The magic of a Target encounter done right 🧍‍♂️ How to teach influence through confidence, not charisma 💸 Why bad money beliefs start early—and how to break them 🎯 And the rule every leader should live by: Own your mistakes. Own them fast.Plus:How to teach teens to talk to adults (without hiding in the chip aisle)The “Highs and Lows” dinner game that turned parenting into mentorshipWhy leaders should feel worse about a mistake than their clients do🎓 Want your teen to level up? Check out Derrick’s course: Simple Teen Success📍 Find Derrick Kinney: https://www.instagram.com/derrickkinney/ https://www.simpleteensuccess.com/

Think presence is just for the boardroom? Think again.Lorraine K. Lee—LinkedIn Top Voice, bestselling author, and introvert turned international speaker—joins Nick and Marnie to rewrite the rules on what it really takes to be seen, heard, and remembered at work.In this episode, Lorraine shares:🧠 Why you already have a personal brand—and what happens when you don’t shape it📚 Her EPIC Framework for career branding:ExperiencesPersonalityIdentityCommunity📈 Why hard work alone won’t get you promoted (and what will)🎥 How to master the Zoom room using her signature T-Method:TechnologyEnergyAesthetics💬 And why introverts aren’t just invited to the leadership table—they belong at the head of itPlus:The most overlooked secret to getting promoted (spoiler: tell your manager you want to be)Why video presence still matters—and how to stop looking like a witness in the WFH crime sceneHow to beat imposter syndrome with a journalist’s mindset and a CEO’s ownership👀 Bonus: Lorraine offers live video coaching to Nick and Marnie… and let’s just say, they’ve got homework.📖 Get her book, Unforgettable Presence, anywhere books are sold.📍 Find Lorraine K. Lee:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineklee/www.lorraineklee.com

🎙️ “Lead Loud, Listen Louder – With Scott Nunes”In this episode of Leadership Rules, Scott Nunes drops wisdom on leading with heart, practicing humility, and why every leader needs a dash of Sigma energy.🚀 Key takeaways:Why leadership isn’t a title—it’s a daily practiceBalancing structure and creativity (hello sticky notes & Sigma moves)Letting silence create space for others to leadUsing tech to amplify your humanity, not replace itHumility as the ultimate leadership flexScott reminds us: Serve like a teacher, listen like a counselor, and lead like a human.📍 Connect with Scott Nunes:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottnunes/@MrNunesTeach across socials🔗 Get all the show notes and extras: [Insert link]

🎙️ Episode Title: “Product Thinking for Life & Leadership – With Tami Reiss”✂️ Summary:Ever wonder how to influence without authority, scale your own career like a product, and still have time to build Lego bonsai trees? Meet Tami Reiss—executive coach, product thinker, and author of the cutest children's book ever written about what product managers actually do (yes, really).In this episode, Tami joins Marnie and Nick to share:🧠 How to lead with vision, influence, and joy—even if you're not the boss📚 Why your career needs a pitch, not just a résumé🪜 Her signature LEAD Framework:Look & LeapExcite & EmpowerAlign & ActivateDecide & Deputize💥 And why “you can’t do it alone” might be the realest leadership rule of allPlus:Turning bedtime stories into boardroom breakthroughsHow to explain product management to your parents and your preschoolerThe difference between delegation and deputizing (hint: it’s about trust)👀 Bonus: Tami shares how to treat yourself like the product—and your pitch like your North Star.📍 Find Tami Reiss:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamireiss/LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram — just don’t spell her name with two M’s, or you’ll get the WNBA coach (great hair, wrong Tami 😉)🔗 Show notes and links to her book, blog, and brilliant insights: [insert link here]

What if being the calmest person in the room is actually your best leadership move?In this episode of Leadership Rules, we sit down with longtime friend, educator, and strategic change whisperer Kellie Ady—and it's a mic-drop masterclass in leading with empathy, clarity, and (real talk) patience.From disastrous tech rollouts to unexpected mentorship wins, Kellie shares what she's learned about navigating change without losing your humanity—or your team’s trust. We dive into adaptive leadership, why communication is often an illusion, and how to influence culture even when you don’t have a title.🎯 Highlights include:Why people don’t resist change—they fear lossThe "CPR" leadership sticker you’ll want for your laptopHow to lead even when you’re not on the org chartWhy trust breaks when communication assumes too muchWhat it means to be the cheerleader of people, not changeWhether you're a district leader, startup founder, middle manager, or just trying to steer your own life with more intention, Kellie’s wisdom will help you stop forcing it and start facilitating it.📌 Bonus: You’ll learn why whiteboards, chalk, and “not the drink I ordered” are all part of this story.🎧 Listen. Reflect. Then go be the calmest person in your room. Connect with Kellie here: www.linkedin.com​ 

In this episode of Leadership Rules, we’re joined by two powerhouses of purpose: Craig Fisher—talent strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Paint Your Store—and Kory Kirby—publishing phenom and founder of Little Cabin Press. Together, they crack open what it really means to build a brand that reflects who you are, not just what you do.🚫 This isn’t another résumé-polishing, cover-letter-agonizing kind of chat.✅ This is about showing up with intention, telling your story before someone tells it for you, and leading your life like the CEO you already are.🎯 Highlights include:- The “Paint Your Store” mindset—and why everyone needs one- Why most job seekers are doing it backwards (and how to flip it)- From bug-infested cabin to bestselling books: Kory’s journey- Craig’s 4-list self-awareness exercise (bookmark this!)- How AI is a tool—but character is the competitive advantage- Leadership rules that are simple, sticky, and soul-deepWhether you’re fresh out of school or ten years into your career, this conversation is a reminder that your presence *is* your brand—and you can either design it or let it happen by default. The choice is yours.🖌️ Paint your store.🎤 Tell your story.💼 Lead your life.Connect with them on LinkedIn:Craig Fisher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wcraigfisher/Kory Kirby: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korykirby/

In this episode of Leadership Rules, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio sit down with Milam Miller—keynote speaker, leadership coach, and self-proclaimed real-life Ted Lasso. With a background in international sports leadership and a new book on the way (The Charisma Craft), Milam brings stories and wisdom from the pitch to the boardroom.From building a $20M sales team in European football to launching his leadership practice “Be Confident and Kind,” Milam shares what it means to lead with heart, harness charisma, and create cultures that actually work. We dive into quitting corporate, leadership reinvention, and whether Season 4 of Ted Lasso should happen (spoiler: he's all in).📌 Topics we cover:Why “Fake it till you make it” is outdated adviceCharisma as a leadership skill: authentic, bold, curiousHigh-functioning teams & what sports taught us about leadershipThe link between Ted Lasso, trust, and cultureMilam’s take on evolving your “why” and honoring your next chapter🔥 Whether you're a leadership geek, Ted Lasso fan, or just need a reminder to lead with curiosity—this episode delivers.👀 Learn more about Milam at www.beconfidentandkind.com🔗 Follow him on LinkedIn and Instagram for fresh takes on soft skills and leadership growth.

What happens when one of the world’s most influential engineering minds sits down to talk Ted Lasso, leadership, soft skills, and the art of communication?You get an episode brimming with humility, humor, and hard-won wisdom.🎧 In our latest Leadership Rules podcast, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio had the pleasure of talking to Luca Rossi — founder of the powerhouse newsletter Refactoring (140K+ subscribers strong 💪).Here’s a taste of what we unpacked:• The real reason soft skills drive engineering success (especially in an AI world)• Why empathy is NOT the enemy of productivity• The underrated power of personal taglines & communication guides• And yes, Luca's take on Ted Lasso’s most overlooked leader (hint: It’s Keely 👏)🧠 If you lead people — or aspire to — this one’s for you.#LeadItLikeLasso #LeadershipRules #EngineeringLeadership #SoftSkillsMatter #CommunicationInTech #TedLassoLeadership #Refactoring #LucaRossi #PodcastDrop #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment

🎧 In this episode of Leadership Rules, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio welcome Andrew Levine and Scott Johnson, the innovative minds behind the newsletter Slightly Smarter. Dive into a discussion that explores the power of concise learning and actionable insights derived from leadership and business books.🔑 Episode Highlights:⚡ Bite-Sized Learning: Discover how Slightly Smarter condenses complex ideas from extensive reads into digestible, impactful takeaways, helping leaders grow without the overwhelm.⚡ Community Building: Learn about the journey of creating a vibrant community of eager learners and leaders, and how this platform is transforming the way knowledge is consumed and applied.🌟 Special Guest Insights: Andrew and Scott share their unique entrepreneurial paths, the challenges they've navigated, and the innovative approach that Slightly Smarter brings to professional growth.✨ Leadership Philosophies: Engage with their thoughts on how leadership is both an art and a science, reflecting on their personal experiences and how they mold the content for their audience.📘 From Newsletter to Network: Hear about their plans to expand their reach beyond the newsletter, creating interactive, real-world applications of their curated knowledge through events - Check out their BookJams! BookJams.com🎙️ Engagement and Impact: Delve into how Slightly Smarter fosters engagement and measures impact, offering insights into building an effective content-driven community.📚 Lead It Like Lasso: For more inspiration on transformative leadership and personal growth, explore our book for actionable insights and guidance.🔗 Connect with Our Guests: Learn more about the mission of Slightly Smarter and how you can be part of their learning community at SlightlySmarter.com.#LeadershipPodcast #LearningInLeadership #CommunityBuilding #LeadItLikeLasso

In today’s podcast, Nick Coniglio and Marnie Stockman are excited to welcome Melissa Kwan, CEO and co-founder of eWebinar—a platform that automates webinars so founders and teams can reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. Melissa is a three-time bootstrapper with one exit, a global digital nomad, and a fierce advocate for life-first leadership.Episode Highlights:⚽ Bootstrapping with Purpose: Melissa shares her journey of building three companies without outside funding and why she believes success isn't about scale—it's about alignment with your values and lifestyle.⚽ Trust, Branding, and the Power of Showing Up: We explore Melissa’s approach to building a trusted brand without hype, and how authenticity and vulnerability are her superpowers in a sea of startup noise.Special Guest Insights:Melissa opens up about the lessons learned from costly strategy missteps, the importance of personal integrity in leadership, and how to lead by example—even when no one’s watching.✅ Marketing Myths & Founder Realities: Melissa breaks down the myth of hockey-stick growth and shares a refreshingly honest take on slow, sustainable progress.✅ Your Founder Next Door: Melissa talks about building community, leading with honesty, and using personal branding to foster genuine connection—not just visibility.💡 Key Takeaway: This episode is a masterclass in grounded leadership. Melissa’s journey challenges the traditional success narrative and offers a new lens for founders and leaders who want to build boldly—but on their own terms.📚 Lead It Like Lasso: For more leadership inspiration and actionable insights, check out our book—your playbook for leading with heart, integrity, and impact.📣 Connect with Melissa Kwan:Explore Melissa’s work at eWebinar.com and subscribe to her newsletter at melissakwan.com.#LeadershipPodcast #StartupLife #BootstrappedFounder #PersonalLeadership #LeadItLikeLasso #MelissaKwan #eWebinar #DigitalNomadLeadership #AuthenticBranding

Welcome to another enriching episode of Leadership Rules! In today's podcast, Nick Coniglio and Marnie Stockman are excited to welcome Matt DeHart, founder of the innovative Teach from DeHart Academy. This unique middle school in Pittsburgh is set to open in fall 2025 and aims to not only educate students but also to tackle poverty by providing comprehensive support and education to entire families.Episode Highlights:⚽ Innovative Education Model: Matt introduces his groundbreaking approach to education at Teach from DeHart Academy, which integrates academic learning with crucial support services for families, aiming to uplift entire communities from poverty.⚽ Leadership and Community Impact: Explore Matt's vision for generational change and how his personal and family legacy of impactful community service shapes his leadership and the academy's mission.Special Guest Insights:Matt shares the inspirational story behind his career in education and his passion for making a significant difference in the lives of his students and their families.✅ Building a Legacy: Dive into Matt's approach to creating a lasting impact through education and community service, emphasizing the importance of supporting not just students but their entire families.✅ The Power of Personal Leadership: Matt discusses the importance of emotional availability, vulnerability, and authenticity in leadership, drawing parallels with the beloved character Ted Lasso from the series that inspires many of his own leadership principles.💡 Key Takeaway: This episode highlights the transformative power of education when combined with a deep commitment to community and personal growth. Matt's approach redefines the role of a school in a community, turning it into a hub of opportunity and support.📚 Lead It Like Lasso: For more insights into leadership and making a significant impact, check out our book for further inspiration and guidance.📣 Connect with Matt DeHart: Learn more about Teach from DeHart Academy and how you can support their mission at TeachFromDeHart.org.#LeadershipPodcast #EducationInnovation #CommunityImpact #LeadItLikeLasso

In this special edition of the Leadership Rules podcast, Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio explore the crucial aspects of personal and organizational leadership with key members from the University of Georgia's Institute for Leadership Advancement (ILA). The guests include Stacey Campbell, the director of ILA, alongside students Robert Black and EB Billig, who share their insights and experiences from the program.Episode Highlights:⚽ The Importance of Personal Leadership: Insights into how ILA shapes leaders through rigorous programs, emphasizing self-awareness and leadership practice.⚽ Student Experiences: Robert and EB discuss how ILA's focus on personal leadership has prepared them for real-world challenges and enhanced their career readiness.⚽ Leadership Development in Academic Settings: Stacey Campbell provides an in-depth look at the structure and impact of ILA's leadership programs, stressing the blend of academic and practical approaches to developing leaders.Special Guest Insights:Stacey, Robert, and EB share transformative stories from their journeys, highlighting the significant impact of ILA's values-driven approach on their personal and professional growth.✅ Impact of Self-Discovery on Leadership: The discussion delves into how understanding personal strengths and weaknesses plays a crucial role in effective leadership.✅ Future Aspirations and Leadership Paths: The students share their post-graduation plans and how ILA has equipped them for future successes.💡 Key Takeaway: This episode underscores the necessity of investing in personal leadership skills at an early stage, preparing for impactful careers and meaningful lives.📚 Lead It Like Lasso: Enhance your leadership skills with actionable insights from our book, inspired by lessons from the podcast and beyond.📣 Connect with Our Guests: Learn more about ILA and the fantastic work being done at UGA by visiting their website or reaching out directly to Stacey Campbell via email.#LeadershipPodcast #PersonalLeadership #UniversityOfGeorgia #LeadItLikeLasso

In this episode of Leadership Rules, Marnie and Nick are honored to host Dr. Mary Lippitt, an expert in organizational change and leadership. We dive deep into the principles of effective change management and how leaders can inspire and sustain transformation.We explore essential leadership insights, including:⚽ The integration of vision and actionable plans—how clear foresight combined with strategic steps can drive successful change. ⚽ Insights from the Lippitt-Knoster Model—understanding the vital elements of change management and how missing components can lead to common organizational challenges. ⚽ Personal anecdotes from a seasoned change expert—Mary shares stories of organizational transformations and the lessons learned.Special Guest SpotlightDr. Lippitt offers wisdom from her extensive experience in various sectors, highlighting:✅ The importance of aligning vision with practical execution to foster organizational health and growth. ✅ How understanding and addressing the human side of change is crucial for any leader. ✅ Effective strategies for engaging teams and ensuring everyone is on board with new initiatives.💡 Key Takeaway: This episode illuminates the complexities of leading change, emphasizing the need for clarity, commitment, and compassion in leadership practices.📚 Read it like Lasso: Enhance your leadership skills with insights from our book Lead It Like Lasso, inspired by Ted Lasso.📣 Connect with Dr. Mary Lippitt: LinkedIn: Dr. Mary Lippitt Follow her for more expert advice on leadership and change management. #LeadershipPodcast #ChangeManagement #LeadershipLessons #LeadItLikeLasso

In this episode of Leadership Rules, Marnie and Nick welcome Mickey Baines, President and CRO of Kennedy and Company, to discuss leadership lessons, organizational transformation, and embracing change.We unpack critical leadership insights, including:⚽ The art and science of leadership—how to find balance and adapt based on people and circumstances.⚽ Organizational transformation lessons inspired by Ted Lasso—why understanding your "who" matters as much as your "why."⚽ Delegation and growth—avoiding micromanagement and creating opportunities for team development.Special Guest SpotlightMickey shares transformative ideas from his 25+ years in enrollment and student success, offering perspectives on:✅ Building a culture of trust and collaboration to implement change effectively.✅ Leveraging technology to support people-driven outcomes.✅ The importance of continuous learning and growth as a leadership rule.💡 Key Takeaway: From leading organizational change to delegating for growth, this episode challenges listeners to reimagine leadership with intentionality and adaptability.📚 Read it like Lasso: Get our book Lead It Like Lasso to explore actionable leadership principles inspired by Ted Lasso.📣 Connect with Mickey Baines:LinkedIn: Mickey BainesFollow his insights on leadership and the college search journey.#LeadershipPodcast #TedLasso #LeadershipLessons #LeadItLikeLasso

In this episode of Lens of Leadership, Marnie and Nick explore leadership themes with Janet Schijns, CEO of JS Group, in a discussion that could easily span three podcasts.We dive into key leadership behaviors and strategies that Janet champions, including: ⚽ Embracing challenges as pivotal growth opportunities. ⚽ Leveraging kindness as a strategic tool in leadership dynamics. ⚽ Recognizing and nurturing talent beyond mere roles and titles.Special Guest Insight: Janet opens up about: ✅ Driving innovation and change while maintaining a nurturing leadership style. ✅ The importance of listening and empathy in creating an effective team environment. ✅ How personal integrity and authenticity form the cornerstone of her leadership philosophy.👉 Subscribe for more insights on leadership and join us as we apply Ted Lasso's heartwarming and courageous lessons to the real world of leadership.📚 Read it like Lasso: Dive deeper into leadership principles with our book Lead It Like Lasso for more on how to lead with heart and determination.Website: jsgnow.com LinkedIn: Janet Schijns #LeadershipPodcast #TechLeadership #InnovativeLeadership #EmpathyInLeadership #LeadItLikeLasso

Join Marnie and Nick in this episode of "Leadership Rules" where we sit down with LeiLani Quiray, the dynamic CEO of be the change HR. LeiLani is revolutionizing HR with her blend of expert strategies and deep social impact.LeiLani has so many great take aways, including:• Community Impact: Explore how her dedication to social impact has driven her business and personal growth.• Essential Job Readiness Skills: Get top tips for job seekers on navigating today’s employment landscape.• Guidance for Accidental Leaders: Insights for small business leaders on the importance of balancing technical skills with essential soft skills.• The Future of Leadership: LeiLani discusses evolving trends in leadership development that prioritize holistic employee well-being.Why Tune In? If you’re passionate about integrating purpose with business and leading with empathy, this episode will inspire and equip you with strategies to elevate your leadership game.

In this episode of Leadership Rules, Marnie and Nick sit down with the incredible Dondi Scumaci, author, speaker, and leadership development expert, to explore how leaders can nurture their gifts, inspire commitment, and create authentic value in their teams.💡 They discuss:* The difference between compliance and commitment in leadership.* Why Dondi believes we’re all “fully loaded with gifts” (but batteries aren’t included).* The importance of building your personal advisory board (a.k.a. your Diamond Dogs).* Dondi’s take on replacing limiting beliefs with empowering truths.Whether you’re leading a team or just yourself, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you level up and Lead it Like Lasso.

On this episode, Marnie and Nick are thrilled to spotlight their chat with Scott Aaron, a networking and marketing coach who specializes in helping entrepreneurs and coaches build their brands authentically, particularly on LinkedIn. Scott’s unique approach to social media and networking has allowed thousands to scale their visibility without resorting to flashy or superficial tactics. His story of resilience and commitment to genuine connection left a deep impression on us, and we think you’ll find his insights both refreshing and empowering.Some highlights:How to stand out on LinkedIn while staying true to yourselfThe power of daily consistency in building your brandWhy networking and marketing are like the "art and science" of leadershipHow he overcame personal and professional challenges to become resilientLeadership as "leaving people better and giving them hope"Why authenticity and storytelling matter more than vanity metrics... and there is plenty more. This chat is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their influence and lead with purpose.

🎙️ Welcome to another episode of Leadership Rules! Join Marnie and Nick as they dive deep into the rhythms of leadership with Billy Brimblecom, the heartbeat behind the inspiring Steps of Faith Foundation and the electrifying Thundergong event. In this episode, we explore how Billy blends the art of drumming with his mission to change lives, proving that leadership, like music, requires both passion and teamwork. Billy is a great story teller with quite a story to tell. In a world where how you do anything is how you do everything - it is extra fun to learn from someone with the soul of a drummer.

Welcome to our first episode of Leadership Rules where we were excited to sit down with the legendary Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver. Get ready for some powerful takeaways on how giving, not getting, is the secret sauce to leadership success. Bob shares golden nuggets on servant leadership, team building, and the magic that happens when you focus on lifting others up. We even sprinkle in a few fun Ted Lasso-inspired moments, from first concerts to "biscuits with the boss." This is a jam-packed episode full of energy, insights, and moments that’ll have you rethinking what it means to lead. Tune in and get inspired!