Do Something Different: A Leadership Podcast

Send us Fan MailIf you've ever wondered why some people command the room the moment they walk in — and others don't — it's not about what they're saying. Your executive presence speaks for itself, before you even open your mouth.Learn the behaviors that quietly undermine your authority in every meeting, every hallway conversation, every moment someone is watching — and learn what to do instead. The answer isn't about doing more. It's about stopping the damaging behaviors.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailIf you're working hard but still not getting career growth, nobody told you the rules changed. After 30, getting promoted at work has nothing to do with doing more. It requires the professional development to become the leader your organization actually needs.In this episode, I break down why the habits that built your career — reliability, responsiveness, the "I'll handle it" attitude — quietly become the things that keep you stuck. This isn't a motivation problem or a skills gap. It's an identity gap. And until you see it, no amount of hard work will close it.I share the pattern I've seen across dozens of coaching clients (and my own experience as a Director at Apple): smart, driven people doing everything right — and hitting a ceiling they can't explain. I'll show you where the real shift happens and the three places it's hiding in your day-to-day work right now.If you've been passed over, plateaued, or just feel like your effort isn't translating, this one's for you.Listen Next to Season 2, Episode 2: Stop Asking For Feedback.Follow Rusty on YouTube. Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMost professionals think feedback is essential to self improvement. But what if feedback limits your personal growth?This episode challenges one of the most common practices in professional development and gives you a 3-step framework that will transform how you think about self improvement, leadership development, and building confidence.If you're a business leader focused on career planning, executive presence, and personal development, this episode will change your approach to professional growth. Whether you're navigating a promotion, stepping into a bigger leadership role, or simply want to stop second-guessing yourself, this framework puts you in control.Next Up: Season 1 Episode 19: More Strategic Decisions in 3 StepsOr listen / subscribe on YouTube. Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMost leaders think executive presence in high-stakes meetings comes from being well prepared. But they prepare the wrong thing.In this episode, I share the 3-step formula I use with my coaching clients to help them walk into high-stakes meetings as a contributor, not just a survivor. You'll hear the question that completely changed how one of my clients prepared for a meeting with a demanding SVP — and why the best-prepared person in the room is often the least impressive.If you've ever over-prepared, second-guessed yourself, or held back your best ideas in front of senior leadership, this one's for you.What you'll get from this episode:- Why your current preparation might be working against you- The one question to ask yourself before every high-stakes meeting- The post-it note trick that keeps you from reverting to old habits under pressure- Why bombing a meeting might actually be the best thing for your careerListen next: How to Speak Like a Leader, Episode 34 from June 23, 2025. Or find it on YouTube.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailExecutive presence isn’t just about communication. It’s also about making good decisions. In this episode, we discuss how to use leadership intuition in decision making when the stakes are high. Featuring Samyr Qureshi, CEO and co-founder of Knack, this conversation dives into the internal compass behind career growth, how to trust your gut when data falls short, and what it really takes to lead with clarity, confidence, and conviction in today’s fast-moving world.Key Points:🔑 Why Jeff Bezos trusts intuition over analysis in his biggest decisions🔑 How to distinguish between fear and intuition🔑 What happens when you ignore your gut, and how to recover🔑 Pushing back on powerful voices with respect and clarity🔑 Small, calculated risks vs. the all-in leap🔑 Why storytelling and mindset are central to building trust in yourself🔑 A simple but powerful lens for prioritizing what matters most in your career🎯 Whether you're operating in a high-growth startup or navigating the politics of a large corporation, your ability to tap into intuition may be your greatest edge in leadership and personal development.Follow Samyr on LinkedIn  https://linkedin.com/in/samyrqRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMost professionals are never taught how to choose a career that leads to lasting professional growth and meaningful personal development. This episode reveals powerful insights from career coaching that will help you rethink everything you’ve been told about success.Forget the tired advice about following your passion or creating a rigid five-year plan. If you're feeling stuck or unfulfilled, it's not because you're doing it wrong—it's because the rules you're following are outdated.🔑 In This Episode:The toxic myths of modern career advice—and why they persistThe truth about linear career paths (hint: they don’t exist)What to do before you leave a job that isn’t workingHow to experiment and grow inside your current roleA simple 3-step paradigm to clarify what you really wantThe “Rearview Mirror Test” to make bold decisions with confidenceThis isn’t about taking a leap without a plan. It’s about taking smart risks, learning what energizes you, and designing a career you don’t want to escape from.🎧 Listen now and start building the kind of success you’ll be proud of at 90.📌 Subscribe for weekly episodes on executive presence, career growth, and leadership mindsets.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailGrit may get you started in your career, but it’s not what gets you promoted. In this conversation on leadership, personal development, and professional development, Guy Yalif—Chief Evangelist at Webflow—challenges the belief that success requires relentless hustle.Key Takeaways:Why our culture rewards hustle, and how that mindset can quietly stall your career growthHow time tracking elevates focus and effectivenessThe four things only a CEO can own, and how to stop doing everything elseReleasing guilt around working lessLearning to use time for thinking, not just doingDiscomfort as a gateway to leadership growthThis episode is essential listening for leaders who want to achieve more without doing more.👉 Listen now and discover how to lead with impact—by doing less, not more.👉 Follow Guy Yalif on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gyalif/Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailSuccess in your career doesn't just come from mastering skills—it comes from mastering your mindset. In this powerful conversation with Krishnan Venkata, Chief Client Officer at LatentView Analytics, we uncover two game-changing principles that can rapidly accelerate growth for any professional ready to step outside their comfort zone.Krishnan shares real-world stories from his journey scaling a 10-person startup into a 2,000-person global enterprise. The insights are bold, practical, and surprisingly human.Key takeaways from this episode:The hidden cost of playing it safe, and how risk-taking can create exponential opportunitiesWhy mindset consistently trumps skill set in career success and leadershipA practical way to reframe fear and anxietyThe unexpected career advantage of working through crisis situationsHow engaging with people outside your company can unlock clarity, strategy, and innovationOne overlooked reason leaders stall—and how to break freeIf you're hungry for growth, this episode reveals what separates those who rise from those who remain stuck.Connect with Krishnan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishnanvenkata/Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMany high performers unknowingly sabotage their chances at promotion by making a single critical mistake. Discover the hidden obstacle that holds back smart, capable leaders—and learn the three essential steps to break through it. With real-life stories and a clear roadmap, this conversation will shift how you think about advancement and help you align your actions with the role you want, not just the one you have.Key Points Covered:The career-limiting trap that blocks promotion opportunityCase studies of two professionals who were overlooked for years, and what finally changedThe backwards approach most people take to promotions—and the mindset shift you need insteadThree foundational pillars of executive leadershipWhy “acting the part” is more than mindset—it’s about changing how you spend your timeHow to reframe your work and conversations so others see your growthListen now to find out what you might be missing—and how one change in focus could unlock your next big opportunity.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailIf you've ever wondered how to speak like a leader at work, this episode delivers the answer—through practical, tactical language shifts that instantly elevate your presence. Whether you're leading a team, presenting to executives, or looking to grow in your role, the way you speak plays a powerful role in how others perceive your leadership.In this episode, discover how confident leaders use intentional language to project authority, clarity, and calm—even under pressure. These are communication skills you can put to work immediately to sound like a leader and develop the executive presence that drives real impact.What You’ll Learn:Why confidence is often confused with competence—and how to use that to your advantageThe communication habits that quietly undermine your leadership skillsWhy hedging language like “I think” and “I’m trying” weakens your message10 powerful shifts to speak like a leader and sound more assertive, clear, and credibleHow your language influences both your personal development and how others view your leadershipA client story that shows how small changes in communication can lead to stronger executive presenceThe connection between confident action and belief—and how to stop reinforcing self-doubtListen if you want to:Build the communication skills that help you sound like a leaderStrengthen your leadership skills through everyday language choicesDevelop your executive presence without changing who you areUse personal development tools to show up with more clarity and confidenceReady to speak like a confident leader? ResourcersDownload the free worksheet with all 10 language upgrades—perfect for professionals working on their executive presence and leadership growth.More Strategic Decisions in 3 Steps - includes the 7 factors that make you stupid at workIncreasing Your Executive Present in Meetings - addresses the fear of speaking up Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailWhat if the fastest way to advance your career isn’t about working harder, but thinking differently? In this episode, discover the mindset shift that elevates your leadership skills, strengthens your executive presence, and accelerates your income and impact. Learn how embracing mistakes and leaning into discomfort creates the foundation for self improvement and sustained personal development.This mindset unlocks the Success Trifecta: more success at work, more control of your time, and more fun doing it. It all starts with a powerful blend of positive thinking and a commitment to growth.Key Takeaways:Why career advancement starts by doing less, not more—and how one leader reclaimed five hours a week and grew his impact.How mindset shapes your executive presence under pressure.A leadership lesson from Jeff Bezos on turning blame into breakthrough.Why embracing mistakes is the most overlooked path to self improvement and lasting confidence.How to shift out of survival mode and into positive thinkingThe fastest way to grow your income in a corporate careerThree common leadership pitfalls to avoid:Two bold strategies to lead at the next level before your title changes.Listen now to upgrade your mindset, strengthen your leadership skills, and activate the Success Trifecta that leads to unstoppable career growth.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailThere’s one deceptively simple question that most people never stop to ask, but it holds the key to clarity, confidence, and success. Whether you're facing a career crossroads, navigating workplace conflict, or stepping into a new opportunity, this question can shift your entire approach.This episode breaks down how three professionals—each facing wildly different challenges—found their way forward by starting with this one question. You’ll hear how leaders get trapped by external pressures, and how to strip them away to find the clarity that fuels powerful action.Key takeaways:Why clarity and confidence are the building blocks of personal powerHow external noise—like social pressure, past experiences, or fear of judgment—distorts decision-makingThe question that every leader should ask themselves in moments of uncertaintyWhy too much information can paralyze decision-makingReal examples from leaders navigating career decisions, conflict, and strategic opportunitiesWhy personal power isn’t about control—it’s about alignment and convictionThe mindset shift that leads to authentic leadership and long-term growthThis episode is a practical, inspiring guide to reclaiming your power, redefining your path, and making decisions that align with who you truly are.Episodes referencedThe Hidden Career Killer for High Performers (Episode 29)More Strategic Decisions in 3 Steps (Episode 19)Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailExecutive presence is stubbornly difficult to define. This episode breaks down the critical connection between communication style and executive presence, and challenges the common belief that being smart is enough to lead effectively.Whether you're naturally collaborative, soft-spoken, or conflict-averse, your style may be holding you back more than you realize. The key? Evolve how you communicate without losing who you are — and unlock the version of yourself that’s already capable of commanding a room.Key takeaways:Why being “nice” can unintentionally make you forgettableHow personality is more about past habits than future potentialThe danger of blending in with corporate norms — and how to stand outThe mindset shift from authenticity-as-you-are to authenticity-as-you’re-becomingFive powerful “P” tools to boost executive presenceThis episode is a masterclass in transforming your presence — not by becoming someone you’re not, but by expanding who you already are. Listen in and start crafting the leader you’re meant to become.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailWhen leaders build teams they can trust, they unlock not only organizational impact—but personal freedom. In this powerful episode, Eric Bensley, Head of Global Product Marketing at Asana, breaks down what it truly takes to lead a high-performing team you can count on, even during critical launches and high-stakes moments.This conversation goes beyond theory. It’s a practical, honest look at the tension between control and empowerment, and the kind of leadership mindset required to scale trust, quality, and ownership across a team.Key Points:Why the ultimate cost of a low-performing team is borne by the leaderHow to climb the “trust ladder” with your team—from run-rate tasks to high-stakes, ambiguous initiativesThe mindset shift from doing the work to empowering others to lead and own outcomesA practical framework for coaching independence without sacrificing qualityHow to balance asking vs. telling when developing emerging leadersThe hidden cost of perfectionism and how to replace control with purposeWhy vulnerability is the gateway to growing your people—and your impactThis is a must-listen for leaders ready to elevate their team’s performance without burning out or bottlenecking progress. Unlock a new level of leadership by learning how to delegate trust, not just tasks.Connect with Eric on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbensley/Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailHigh performers often double down on results—but that mindset alone ultimately leads to  failure. Sustainable leadership requires more than performance. In this episode, discover why prioritizing personal and professional growth is not optional—it’s essential for long-term success. The difference between those who thrive and those who plateau comes down to one thing: growth.Key takeaways:Why delivering results isn’t enough to succeed as a leader in today’s fast-paced worldThe hidden cost of valuing performance over personal developmentA mindset shift that sets the stage for exponential impactThe three critical components of a growth strategyHow to improve in just 90 seconds a dayWhy specificity is the secret to consistent action and real changeGrowth isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about deliberate steps taken consistently. Learn how to shift your focus, unlock new levels of leadership, and ensure you're evolving as fast as the world around you.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailSmart, successful professionals often assume that career growth is about learning new skills. But the real unlock isn’t about your skillset—it’s about your mindset. In this episode, discover why redefining how you see yourself can be the most powerful move you make in your professional life.Key Takeaways:The most common mistake ambitious people make in career development—and how to avoid it.Why asking “What do I want?” is more transformational than learning another new skill.How self-perception silently limits your potential—and how to break free.Why "authentic leadership" can be a trap that prevents future growth.The mindset shift that turns a $100K earner into someone who believes they can thrive in a $500K role.What it really means to adopt a growth mindset—and how it shapes your choices, confidence, and outcomes.Listen now to discover the hidden factor that determines your success—and how to start seeing yourself differently, today.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailYour quality of life as a leader is directly tied to how well you leverage your team. Two real client stories illustrate this concept, one of which demonstrates the Success Trifecta—being more successful at work, working less, and actually enjoying your job.But how do you get there? This episode dives deep into the essential skillset and mindset needed to delegate effectively, empower your team, and create sustainable success without burnout. You'll discover why the goal isn’t just delivering high-quality work—it’s building a high-performing, empowered team that lifts the whole organization.What You’ll Learn:🔺 What the Success Trifecta is—and why most leaders believe it's impossible.🔧 The two critical skills every leader must master: Setting Clear Expectations and Holding Accountability.🧠 How your mindset and beliefs about performance, failure, and control could be limiting your growth.🚫 Why "fixing it yourself" undermines your team (and what to do instead).🔄 The role of resilience in becoming a more strategic, less reactive leader.🔁 How to rewire your beliefs for sustainable success—both for you and your team.Key Quote:"Your job is not to deliver perfect work. Your job is to build a team that can." — Rusty GaillardRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailIs it possible to be too nice as a leader? We examine this question using the tension between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively as a real-world lens into leadership challenges.  Explore how excessive niceness can become a barrier to strength, clarity, and effectiveness in leadership.Listen to learn four key truths about leadership and the pitfalls of prioritizing likability over strength:Being nice is not the same as being strong.Pleasing others leads to leadership failure.People-first leadership requires tough conversations.Accountability needs systems, not just personality.This episode will inspire you to rethink your leadership style and find the courage to pair kindness with clarity, strength, and structure.Key Takeaways:Why trying to be liked can cost you respect—and results.How to lean into hard conversations while maintaining high EQ.The shift from solving problems for your team to helping them solve their own.The importance of systems in creating fair and consistent accountability.Shows Referenced in the PodcastLiked or Respected? Five Questions to See Which You Secretly Prefer.Delivering Effective Feedback.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Do Something Different, Rusty Gaillard sits down with Erin Mantz, VP of Marketing at Zeno Group and founder of Gen X Girls Grow Up. They dive into the importance of your first boss, how generational traits shape leadership styles, and what Gen X can learn from Gen Z in today’s workplace. From latchkey resilience to mentoring the next generation, this conversation is packed with insights on navigating careers, building strong teams, and adapting as a modern leader.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why your first boss can shape your entire careerHow Gen X’s upbringing influences their work ethic and leadership styleWhat Gen Z values at work—and why it mattersTips for creating better intergenerational communication at workThe power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadershipHow to mentor and be mentored across generationsFollow Erin on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmantz/And at Gen X Girls Grow Up:https://www.facebook.com/GenXBlog/Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailEver feel like your corporate experience is just a little too similar to dystopian fiction?From emotional avoidance to culture as control, Severance hits uncomfortably close to the reality of corporate life—and offers a blueprint for leading with more authenticity, presence, and connection.Learn to stop operating like “outies”—detached, numb, and running from discomfort—and start showing up like “innies”—fully engaged, human, and real. You’ll walk away with fresh insights and one big challenge: Bring more of your whole self to work.What you'll discover:Why most leaders are running away from the real work of leadership (just like the "outies")The surprising power of showing up as your full, messy, authentic selfHow well-intentioned company culture can morph into a control mechanismThe dangerous line between finding meaning at work and work becoming your religionWhy splitting your "work self" from your "real self" creates chaosWhether you've watched Severance or not, these insights will transform how you think about leadership in today's corporate world.Ready to stop "severing" parts of yourself at work and lead with your whole being? Listen now and discover how to do something different that actually moves the needle.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailLeaders often find themselves with competing decision-making frameworks: impact vs. optics, managing risk vs. capturing potential, what you want vs. what you should do. This is a recipe for bad decisions.There's also a fundamental problem with analytical decision-making. Even the most rigorous frameworks can be manipulated to justify the outcome you secretly want. Meanwhile, some of the greatest business breakthroughs in history—think Steve Jobs or Elon Musk—weren't driven by data but by intuitive leadership.You'll learn:Why stress sabotages your decision-making biologyHow to escape the trap of short-term thinkingA surprising technique using a coin flip to reveal your true preferencesThe 10-10-10 framework that transforms how you evaluate choicesLearn to make more confident decisions even with imperfect information, and position yourself as the kind of leader who drives meaningful change rather than simply turning the crank on daily minutiae.Duration: 15 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailThere's a big gap between how most managers lead their teams and how the best CEOs drive organizational success. A good CEO builds a team that makes strategic decisions, executes independently, and continuously improves. Many mid-level leaders remain trapped in cycles of micromanagement, approval-seeking, and task-oriented direction.This episode explores why managing like you're the smartest person in the room limits your impact, and introduces a powerful framework to help you bridge this  leadership gap.You'll learn:Why having all the answers undermines your team's effectivenessThe shift in mindset required to develop your team into thought partnersWhat separates managers who merely assign tasks from leaders who inspire resultsThe uncomfortable but necessary step that transforms team accountabilityHow to build a culture where continuous improvement happens naturallyDiscover the three fundamental principles that the best CEOs use to build exceptional teams—and how implementing these approaches can dramatically increase your impact while actually reducing your workload.Duration: 19 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailAt a senior level, jobs aren't posted... they're whispered. Join CEO of Whispered Andy Mowat for this conversation on how to run a successful job search. You'll learn:Why clarity and specificity are critical to an effective executive job searchThe counterintuitive reason why narrowing your focus actually creates more opportunitiesHow to take control of interviews and stand out as a candidateNetworking approaches that build authentic relationships without feeling transactionalStrategies to maintain confidence throughout the often isolating job search processListen to discover how to find opportunities that align with your unique strengths and career aspirations.Duration: 17 minutesLearn more about Whispered at whispered.comFollow Andy Mowat at LinkedIn.com/in/amowatRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMost professionals claim they want to be respected as leaders, but they act like they want to be liked. This disconnect prevents many talented individuals from achieving their full leadership potential and earning the respect they desire. Discover why the behaviors that feel most comfortable may be the very ones limiting your effectiveness as a leader.You'll learn:The five critical questions to assess whether you prioritize being liked over being respectedWhy conflict avoidance and people-pleasing damage your leadership credibilityHow to recognize when your desire for approval is undermining your effectivenessPractical strategies to shift from likability-focused to respect-worthy behaviorsThe connection between accountability and helping others growListen to discover how to overcome the natural tendency to seek approval, and instead develop the courage to lead with conviction.Duration: 11 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailDespite best intentions, many high achievers make suboptimal decisions in the workplace. The combination of stress, information overload, social pressure, and authority figures creates an environment where even the smartest professionals fall into predictable decision-making traps. These patterns—often the very same behaviors that brought early career success—become the invisible barriers preventing advancement to higher leadership levels.You'll learn:The seven factors that make you stupid when it comes to decision-makingWhy continuing to use approaches that worked in the past limits your future growthHow inertia becomes the hidden blocker to making better choicesA powerful 3-step framework for breaking through decision paralysisListen to discover how shifting your decision-making approach can transform your effectiveness as a leader and position you for greater impact with less stress—even in high-pressure environments.Duration: 15 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailInfluence is about changing how others think and act, not simply directing them what to do. Discover why transformational influence—the kind that creates lasting change and builds strong relationships—requires a completely different approach than the transactional tactics many resort to.You'll learn:The difference between authority and influenceWhy common influence "hacks" often backfireThe Triangle of Influence that drives transformational influenceThree tactical behaviors to be more influential todayListen to discover how mastering the art of true influence can transform your effectiveness as a leader and position you to create meaningful change—even when you don't have formal authority.Duration: 23 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMany accomplished professionals hit a ceiling not because they lack skills, but because they overuse "pleaser" behaviors that undermine their executive presence. This episode exposes how an over-reliance on being likeable and getting along - qualities that may have served you well early in your career - can actually diminish your leadership impact.Through real coaching scenarios, learn why expanding your behavioral range beyond "nice" is crucial for authentic leadership presence. Discover how you can maintain your naturally friendly style while developing the capacity to command attention and respect when needed. The solution isn't about becoming less authentic - it's about becoming more complete in how you show up as a leader.Key themes:How pleasing others can diminish authorityWhy being liked isn't the same as being respectedThe cost of avoiding necessary tensionSimple behaviors to command more respectListen to discover how breaking free from the "nice" trap could be your biggest leadership breakthrough.Duration: 15 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailWhat is executive presence, and why do so many talented leaders struggle to develop it? That is the theme of this conversation with Cindy Skalicky.Through practical examples and proven frameworks, this episode reveals why focusing solely on technical expertise and data can actually undermine leadership effectiveness, and how authentic storytelling and human connection create lasting impact.Key themes:Why technical excellence alone doesn't translate to executive presenceThe balance between analytical and emotional intelligence in leadershipHow personal storytelling builds trust and engagementPractical techniques for commanding attention and respectListen to discover why your next presentation or meeting could be an opportunity to transform how others perceive your leadership.Duration: 27 minutesCindy Skalicky, founder and head coach of On Point Communications, has helped clients raise millions in venture capital funding, secure next-level invitations to speak to global audiences, and win high-stakes deals from partnerships through M&A. A specialist in rhetorical theory, Cindy is an expert at assessing messages – and the speakers who deliver them – to determine their collective persuasive value.She has presented to thousands of executives on a global level, teaching them how to apply and integrate her proven methods which are step-by step, easy to follow, and produce results fast. Follow Cindy on LinkedIn or check out her podcast, Red Light Green Light. Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailThis episode tackles the counterintuitive truth about high achievement: doing more isn't always the path to greater success. Learn why many successful professionals get trapped in patterns of overwork and discover the CALM framework for breaking free from this cycle.Through real-world examples of executives who transformed their approach to work, the episode reveals how strategically working less can lead to better outcomes, including faster decision-making, improved team performance, and career advancement.Key themes:The paradox of achieving more through doing lessBreaking free from achievement-driven work patternsThe importance of strategic disengagementA practical framework for sustainable high performanceListen to discover why "working harder" may be the very habit that blocks your career growth.Duration: 15 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailThe ingrained belief that "my work speaks for itself" - while admirable - is not true. It may be a major factor keeping you from reaching your full potential and gaining the recognition your contributions deserve. Learn why "the work speaks for itself" doesn't work, and how to authentically speak up about your accomplishments.Key themes:Why letting work "speak for itself" becomes limiting as you advanceHow ingrained messages about humility can hold us backBreaking free from the discomfort of self-promotionPowerful tools to start speaking up for your accomplishments Listen to learn why what got you here won't get you there - and how to make the mindset shift needed for greater leadership impact.Duration: 24 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMany high achievers struggle with deeply empowering their team. Learn why letting go might be the key to unlocking your next level of leadership. Rather than focusing on doing more, explore how doing less - strategically - could transform both your effectiveness and your team's engagement.Key themes:Why control can become a career liabilityThe hidden cost of "adding value" to every situationBreaking the cycle of micromanagementA practical framework for effective delegationListen to discover how mastering the art of letting go could be your biggest breakthrough as a leader.Duration: 20 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailDo you consistently avoid doing things you know would make you more successful? In this episode, Rusty tackles the hidden truth about why high achievers struggle to implement important changes. Learn why defaulting to "I need more discipline" or "I don't have time" completely misses the point, and discover a new way to understand what's really holding you back.Key themes:Why smart people think they need more disciplineHow success patterns can become invisible barriersThe real reason behind procrastination on important goalsA practical framework for breaking free from ineffective habitsDuration: 26 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMany people struggle maintaining motivation to achieve their goals. It's why so many people don't achieve their New Year's resolutions. In this episode you will discover a powerful perspective shift that can transform how you approach change - whether in your career, health, or relationships.Perfect for:Professionals feeling stuck in unproductive routinesAnyone struggling with New Year's resolutionsLeaders wanting to create lasting changeThose seeking more satisfaction and less comfort-seekingKey themes:Why habits are hard-wired into our brainsThe trap of seeking comfort over satisfactionHow traditional goal-setting can backfireA practical framework for sustainable changeListen to learn a simple but profound mental shift that could finally help you break free from limiting patterns and create lasting positive change.Duration: 22 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailAre your New Year's resolutions setting you up for another unfulfilling year? This episode tackles the common pitfall of traditional goal-setting that keeps ambitious professionals stuck in patterns of busyness and disconnection. Through examining holiday reflections and end-of-year planning, learn why focusing solely on achievements and to-do lists undermines the potential for meaningful growth and joy.Perfect for:High achievers seeking a fresh approach to annual planningProfessionals feeling disconnected from their goalsLeaders wanting to break free from outcome-focused thinkingAnyone craving more meaningful experiences in their work and lifeKey themes:Why traditional resolution-setting often leads to disappointmentThe trap of prioritizing future rewards over present experiencesBreaking free from achievement-focused planningA new framework for creating fulfilling goalsListen to discover how shifting your perspective on goal-setting could transform your approach to personal and professional growth in the coming year.Duration: 13 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailHigh achievers often get trapped by their own success.Learn why the mindsets and behaviors that fueled early career wins often become barriers to reaching senior leadership roles. Discover why the relentless drive to do more, better, and faster can actually limit growth, and why stepping out of your comfort zone and changing those habits may be exactly what's needed to advance.Perfect for: - Rising leaders feeling stuck despite strong performance - High performers struggling with burnout - Managers ready to shift from tactical to strategic - Ambitious professionals seeking sustainable successKey themes: - Why "more of the same" stops working at senior levels - The hidden cost of perfectionism - Breaking free from the execution mindset - The counterintuitive path to greater impactListen to learn why your biggest career breakthrough might require doing less, not more.Duration: 22 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailSmart, high achieving leaders often make sub-optimal decisions. In this episode, learn how our brain's built-in bias toward risk and safety can derail confident decision-making, and uncover the biological reason why focusing on potential problems feels so natural. Through an exploration of brain science and behavioral patterns, the episode reveals why traditional "pros and cons" analysis may actually increase paralysis rather than lead to clarity.Perfect for:* High achievers who find themselves stuck when facing key decisions* Leaders who tend to overanalyze choices* Professionals who want to move past fear-based decision making* Anyone seeking to make faster, more confident choicesKey themes:* Why our brains are wired to focus on risk over opportunity* How stress chemistry impacts decision quality* The trap of endless analysis* 5 Rules for more confident decisionsListen to discover why your natural instincts around decision-making might be holding you back - and what to do about it.Duration: 22 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailStruggling to command respect at work? This episode tackles why blaming external factors - like company culture or difficult colleagues - completely misses the point. The discussion explores how habitual behaviors, particularly those of high achievers, can actually undermine authority and influence.Through 3 simple yet powerful new habits, professionals can learn to command the respect they deserve without compromising relationships or authenticity. The episode reveals why some "good" professional habits might secretly sabotage leadership presence - and how to transform them into genuine authority.Perfect for:* Professionals feeling undervalued at work* Leaders struggling to establish authority* Team members wanting stronger influence* Anyone seeking to enhance their professional presenceKey themes:* Why external blame blocks growth* The hidden cost of "high achiever" habits  * Breaking free from approval-seeking behaviors* Simple techniques for commanding respectListen to discover how small changes in daily work habits could transform how others perceive and respond to leadership.Duration: 16 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailMeetings with senior leaders are a prime opportunity to demonstrate executive presence. But they make many leaders anxious. In this episode, we tackle the uncomfortable truth about why capable professionals often stay silent in high-stakes conversations. From claiming introversion to avoiding vulnerability, discover the five hidden barriers that may be limiting your impact and visibility when it matters most.Through concrete examples and real client experiences, we explore why "supporting the team" or "having nothing to add" might actually be self-sabotaging behaviors. Learn why your discomfort in these situations could be rooted in deeper psychological factors - and how shifting your mindset about meetings could transform your leadership presence.Perfect for:Rising leaders who want more executive visibilityProfessionals who feel hesitant to speak upTeam leaders balancing personal visibility with team empowermentAnyone looking to increase their impact in meetingsKey themes:The true cost of staying silent in important meetingsHow "supporting others" can become career-limitingThe psychology behind meeting participationWhy preparation alone isn't enoughListen to discover how your next executive meeting could become a pivotal moment in your leadership journey.Duration: 15 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailOn Thanksgiving, most of us practice gratitude. It's easy during the holidays, but finding gratitude in the midst of difficulties requires a fundamental shift in perspective that can transform how we experience and overcome obstacles.Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailHas your career progression slowed down? In this episode of Do Something Different, we tackle promotion and career advancement - specifically why many high achievers hit a plateau and struggle to reach the next level. Learn why the behaviors that made you successful early in your career may now be holding you back, and how the "A Trap" can limit your growth.Through practical strategies and real-world examples, discover how to shift from pure execution to true leadership, why focusing solely on deliverables can backfire, and how to demonstrate executive presence without losing your authenticity. Find out why vague feedback like "be more strategic" or "read the room better" is so common - and what to actually do about it.Perfect for:Ambitious professionals seeking their next promotionHigh achievers feeling stuck at their current levelLeaders who want broader organizational impactAnyone transitioning from individual contributor to leadership rolesKey themes:The "A Trap" that holds back smart, successful peopleWhy relationships matter more than work products at senior levelsHow to be strategic without losing effectivenessBreaking free from people-pleasing patternsListen to discover why your drive for excellence might be the very thing keeping you from reaching the next level.Duration: 21 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailIs performance review season making you anxious? In this episode, Rusty Gaillard tackles the elephant in the room: why most leaders either avoid giving feedback or do it poorly. He reveals why treating feedback as a time management problem completely misses the point, and shares a personal commitment that transformed how he approaches difficult conversations.Through the simple but powerful COIN framework (Context, Observation, Impact, Next Steps), Rusty demonstrates how to turn feedback from a dreaded obligation into an opportunity for team growth. Learn why your discomfort with giving feedback might actually be a good sign – and how to use it to become a better leader. Perfect for:* Managers preparing for performance reviews* Leaders who avoid difficult conversations* Team members struggling with peer feedback* Anyone who wants to build a stronger feedback cultureKey themes:* Why feedback avoidance is an emotional, not time management, issue* How "positive culture" can become a feedback barrier* The hidden cost of office gossip* A practical framework for delivering effective feedbackListen to discover why your next uncomfortable conversation could be your biggest leadership breakthrough.Duration: 9 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailAre you a high achiever who's built your career on being smart and avoiding mistakes? In this episode, Rusty tackles the paralyzing pressure that successful professionals face when it comes to making mistakes, especially in high-stakes situations.Through a revealing client story about "Steve," who struggles with a seemingly unfixable situation, Rusty challenges the common belief that avoiding mistakes is the path to success. He introduces a simple but powerful framework called BEAR (Beliefs, Emotions, Actions, Results) that could transform how you handle high-pressure situations.Learn why the very mindset that made you successful might be holding you back from reaching the next level, and discover why true leadership isn't about having all the right answers. (Hint: It's about asking better questions!)Perfect for:Senior leaders feeling pressure to always get it rightHigh achievers struggling with perfectionismExecutives preparing for high-stakes presentationsAnyone who fears making mistakes in front of higher-upsKey themes:The hidden cost of avoiding mistakesWhy confidence matters more than competenceHow to shift from problem-solver to solution-guideA fresh perspective on executive presenceListen to discover why your next "failure" might actually be your biggest opportunity for growth.Duration: 17 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailAre you constantly juggling back-to-back meetings, endless Slack messages, and mounting deliverables? If you're like most senior leaders, you've probably tried various prioritization techniques to manage it all. But what if prioritization isn't actually the answer?In this episode, Rusty shares a personal story from his time at Apple that changed his perspective on time management and career advancement. He challenges the common belief that being better at prioritizing tasks is the solution to our overwhelming workload.Learn why the skills that made you successful so far might actually be holding you back, and discover a surprisingly simple tool that could transform how you approach your work day. (No, it's not another productivity app!)Perfect for:Senior leaders feeling overwhelmed by competing demandsHigh achievers who excel at delivering but feel stuckManagers looking to make a bigger impactAnyone struggling with back-to-back meetings and constant communicationKey themes:The hidden trap of excellence in executionWhy multitasking undermines executive presenceThe difference between responding and driving changeA counterintuitive approach to managing your timeListen to discover why your next cup of coffee might be the most important meeting on your calendar.Duration: 13 minutesRusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn. 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Do Something Different, a leadership podcast. This podcast is for high achievers: smart, ambitious, successful people who've done a lot in their career, but want even more impact and fulfillment. The premise of this podcast is that the behaviors and habits that have been key to your success so far may be the things that are holding you back now. You’ll learn new skillsets and a new mindset to help you see which old habits to change, and what to do instead. Acceleration comes from removing your foot from the brake, not just stepping harder on the gas.This podcast is actionable, so you’ll come away from each episode with specific things you can do that elevate your leadership and impact. Thanks for listening. If you like what you hear, the best way you can support us is to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend. Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn.