Speak In Flow

Are you a CEO who still finds yourself overwhelmed, unable to step away without things falling apart? In this Episode of The Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Oscar Zavaleta, founder and CEO of Montez Group, shares his journey from running a one-person operation to leading a team of 35 on billion-dollar infrastructure projects, such as the $12.5 billion VTA Silicon Valley megaproject. If you're a leader who cares deeply about quality but feels trapped by your own involvement, this episode will change how you think about letting go.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Cost of Owning Everything“The hardest part is to say, you know what? I don't need to own it.”Why starting as a one-person show creates a dangerous pattern, and how to break the cycle before your company stagnates.How to Trust Your Team Without Losing Quality“If you break something, we'll fix it.”The mindset shift that allows you to empower people, even when real financial risk is on the line.Why Training Creates Leadership“If you put somebody completely unprepared, that spirit gets beaten down, and then it's hard to build up.”How investing in your people's preparation builds their confidence and their ability to lead.Communication as Rocket Fuel, Not a Soft SkillWhat becomes possible when your whole team can speak about your company with one consistent voice.________________________________You can’t delegate to a team that isn’t working toward the same goal. So, before you consider lightening your workload, ask yourself: “Is my team ready for the responsibility? And how can I tell?”Learn how to identify misalignment in our latest blog post. "Identifying Misalignment. Is your team not working toward the same goal?"________________________________About the Guest:Oscar Zavaleta is the founder and CEO of Montez Group, a construction management firm headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Long Beach and Seattle. Born in El Salvador, he earned his Civil Engineering degree from Santa Clara University and has since worked on iconic projects, including SoFi Stadium and the $12.5 billion VTA Silicon Valley megaproject. Oscar is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders and dedicates time to supporting industry nonprofits in workforce development, construction management, and transportation. His philosophy? Hire great people, train them well, and then get out of their way.Social HandlesWebsite: www.montezgroup.comFun Facts:🏃‍♂️ Oscar is a dedicated runner and casual golfer.✈️ He loves to travel and read.🪑 In his spare time, he makes furniture.________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What if the biggest obstacle to scaling your startup isn't your strategy, but your inability to let go? In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with Chris Sterbenc, fractional CRO with over 30 years of experience scaling companies from sub-$1 million to double-digit millions. Together, they unpack why even seasoned leaders struggle with accountability, and how “busyness” often masks a lack of clarity that quietly kills growth. If you're a first-time founder or a CEO who feels like you're still doing a little bit of everything, this episode is your roadmap to installing simple systems.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why Accountability Breaks Down“Especially for startup companies and CEOs that are first-time founders, in that they're doing a little bit of everything, And so a lot of mistakes get made, and sometimes they're really avoidable.”Chris explains why startup CEOs often fail to set clear expectations because they're doing everything themselves, and how that leads to blurred lines, finger-pointing, and missed numbers.How to Delegate Without Micromanaging“Carve off pieces of your world to specialists, but know where the lines begin and end.”Discover how to give your team a clear mission, defined boundaries, and the freedom to execute without meddling or hovering.One Simple Shift to Build Accountability as a Culture“Take the time, make sure both people are exactly on the same page.”Slow down. Document expectations. Use AI tools to record and clarify action items. Chris shares how taking just two extra minutes to confirm “who, what, and when” can prevent the most common breakdowns in execution.What Becomes Possible When Communication Is a SystemLess friction. More collaboration. A “frictionless environment” where people openly say, “I'm failing at this, help me fix it,” instead of hoping no one notices. That's the ceiling, and it's higher than most founders realize._________________________________________A startup's growth is threatened by more than just accountability. Misalignment is right around the corner. What's the solution to both? Communication.Understanding where the problem lies is the first step.Learn how to identify misalignment in our latest blog post. "Identifying Misalignment. Is your team not working toward the same goal?"_________________________________________About the Guest:Chris Sterbenc is a fractional CRO and sales leadership veteran. Since 1990, he has helped scale multiple high-growth startups from sub-$1 million to double-digit millions, with several of those companies going public or being acquired, including Infrascale (acquired by Route 66), FreedomVoice (acquired by GoDaddy), Axcient (acquired by eFolder), and more. Today, he coaches first-time founder CEOs through his fractional CRO practice, Scale Up Accelerator Group, where he helps install foundational sales and go-to-market processes so startups can scale without chaos.Social HandlesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissterbencsalesleadercro/Fun Facts:⛳ He's a lifelong sports enthusiast and still plays "a ton of golf," traveling the country by gravel road to discover new courses.🍺 He's a huge foodie and loves exploring local microbrews and cuisine wherever he goes.🏃‍♂️ He's had to "cool it on the more vigorous sports" as the mileage on his body adds up, but that hasn't slowed his competitive spirit._____________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Excessive corporate jargon and endless meetings have caused many team members to tune out, even during important meetings. So it's no surprise that, although everyone initially agrees on the plan, friction between teams begins as soon as the work starts. In this practical episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with strategic communications expert Eileen Wixted to diagnose why alignment breaks down, and exactly how to fix it. Eileen debunks the myth that communication is a "soft skill," revealing why it's actually a hard, hardwirable discipline as critical as math or science.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why "Clear is Kind" Isn't Just a Saying“High-performing teams have a high-performing communication culture. You cannot have one without the other.”How leaders waste time, energy, and money communicating after solving problems, and the simple shift to putting communication at the center of every decision.Alignment vs. Agreement“You don't have to agree. But once the decision is made, you align and carry the flag.”A masterclass in how executive teams can debate fiercely, then move forward as one.The PEAR Model for High-Stakes Communication“A high-performing leadership team begins with its ability to communicate well.”A practical framework (People, Environment, Assets, Reputation) to assess any crisis or sensitive situation, even when you have no time to prepare.Tabletop Drills Are the New Crisis PlansWhy 120-page binders don't work anymore, and how running short, injection-based crisis simulations prepares your team for real-world chaos._________________________________"Soft" problems often have hard consequences, and misalignment is one of them. The main problem is that it is difficult to spot without training and is often confused with a lack of motivation or accountability.Can you clearly identify when your team is misaligned?Learn how to identify misalignment in our latest blog post. "Identifying Misalignment. Is your team not working toward the same goal?"_________________________________About the Guest:Eileen Wixted is a nationally recognized strategic communications and crisis management veteran and the principal of Wixted & Company. A former Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist. Her firm has been named an Agency Elite Top 120 Firm by PRNews for four consecutive years, and she was named the Des Moines Business Record's 2016 Woman Business Owner of the Year. Today, she helps executives find the courage and the words to communicate in a way that builds understanding, trust, and lasting alignment, because as she puts it, "you can make great business decisions, but if you don't know how to communicate them, they will never get implemented."Social HandlesWebsite: https://www.thinkwixted.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-wixted-97b4796/Fun Facts:🍝 Eileen is originally from Brooklyn, New York, and brings that direct, no-nonsense style to everything she does.🍽️ Her first job was as a waitress at a Coney Island diner, where you could not write anything down or use a tray to carry the food. Arms only!🕺 She also won the Big Daddy's disco contest in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Yes, really.)_________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Are your teams working hard but moving in different directions? Join Melinda Lee as she cuts through the noise of busy calendars and makes a full effort to reveal the hidden culprit slowing down your growth: misalignment, not a lack of motivation.In this special episode of the Speak in Flow podcast Legacy Growth Series, Melinda tackles one of the most expensive and overlooked problems facing leaders today, and gives you a single question that will diagnose exactly where your organization is breaking down.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Real Reason Your Team Isn't Growing“If only effort equated to growth, then you'd be thriving...”Why "working harder" never equals growth, and how to spot the difference between productive motion and directionless activity that costs you opportunities.The Cost of MisalignmentAligned teams are 58% faster and 72% more profitable. Discover what misalignment is actually costing your company, including your very best people, who burn out not from hard work, but from working hard with nothing to show for it.The One Question That Exposes Your Growth ProblemA simple, powerful question to ask your leadership team (and bonus points if your whole organization can answer it). The pause after you ask it is a direct measure of what's slowing your company down.From Clarity to Results“Execution is the question between clarity and the results.”Once clarity is solved, a new problem emerges: execution. Melinda previews her next episode, Why Strategies Fail Without an Accountability System, setting the stage for what comes after alignment.__________________________________________Are your teams working hard, but growth remains stagnant? 🚩The problem is rarely motivation. It's misalignment.Only 28% of executives can clearly articulate their company's strategic priorities. The results? Less productivity and more burnout.Learn how to identify misalignment in our latest blog post. "Identifying Misalignment. Is your team not working toward the same goal?"_________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Your calendar is full. Your team is waiting. And yet, you feel spread thinner than ever. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Judy Tsuei, founder of Judy Tsuei Coaching, unpacks why most leaders confuse busyness with alignment. Judy argues that attention scarcity isn't a time management problem; it's an identity problem. The constant overwhelm, the inability to delegate, the invisible ceiling on your growth, these are signs that your unconscious mind is running old code.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Celebrate the Baggage, Don’t Bury ItYour unconscious mind only brings up old wounds when you finally have the resources to heal them. Judy explains why recurring patterns aren’t punishments, but invitations to upgrade your inner code and close the open loops keeping you burned out.The 3 Hidden Drivers: Safety, Value, and Power"If you feel like I'm only 60% powerful, you're gonna spend that last 40% arguing for that story and that limitation."You are 100% safe, 100% valuable, and 100% powerful at your core. If you feel less than that, you’re operating from conditioning. Learn how these three percentages drive every behavior, from overworking to undercharging, and how to reclaim your full agency.Why “Away Motivation” Becomes Your Ceiling"A lot of executives have monetized their wounds. You got the title, but then on the inside, you started feeling dissatisfied. The things that drove you in the first place have now become your ceiling."Many executives built their careers running away from early wounds (hyper-independence, people-pleasing, perfectionism). That same fuel that got you to the top is now the lid holding you back.Microdosing Your New Identity“Allow yourself to start living into that new identity. Part of it is just those little, daily, minute practices”You don’t need a dramatic overhaul. Judy shares the 1% rule: how to titrate your new identity into daily life, celebrate at 90% completion (not moving the goalpost), and allow yourself to be as wildly, fully expressed as the universe itself._____________________________________We sometimes project our inner struggles and wounds onto others. This is often reflected at work when we see a junior team member who reminds us of ourselves. How can we evaluate them objectively?Learn more in our latest blog post. "Promote or Not? A Practical Framework for Testing Seniority." _____________________________________About the Guest: Judy Tsuei works with founders and executives to remove identity-level constraints that cap revenue, pricing power, and leadership capacity. She is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Award recipient, a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow, and a Board Member of Entrepreneurs' Organization (EOA) San Diego. Her approach blends strategic positioning with Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) to create fast behavioral change without increasing availability.Social HandlesInstagram: @judytsueiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judytsuei Tiktok: @judytsueiYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz7EcBPRXLK0WT-kX9JT63A Fun Facts:🚐 She lived in a camper van with her daughter for a year.🌏 Her 11-year-old daughter has more passport stamps than she did at that age.🧠 She was in therapy for 15+ years before discovering NLP.Guest DetailsJudy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judytsuei/Judy's BioJudy Tsuei works with founders and executives to remove identity-level constraints that cap revenue, pricing power, and leadership capacity—so growth no longer requires force, overexertion, or constant visibility. Her work is for high performers who are done hustling for credibility and ready to operate from clarity, leverage, and authority.She is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Award recipient, a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow, and a Board Member of Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EOA) San Diego, operating inside elite founder and executive ecosystems where decision quality matters more than noise. Judy is also a Simon & Schuster–published author and podcast host exploring power, identity, and influence.Her approach blends strategic positioning with self-applied identity work rooted in Neuro Linguistic Programming to create fast behavioral change without increasing availability. Clients don’t become louder or busier—they become clearer, more selective, and harder to ignore. A recipient of the San Diego Magazine Women’s Award, Judy is known for helping leaders build quieter calendars, stronger demand, and income that scales without disturbing their peace.Social Handles:Instagram: @judytsueiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judytsueiTiktok: @judytsueiYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz7EcBPRXLK0WT-kX9JT63AFun Fact:She lived in a camper van with her daughter for about a year. 🙂About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

The generational divide in the workplace is more pronounced today than ever before. This is especially apparent as people begin to question traditional structures. Rachel Gigli Carrieri, SVP of Global Client Experience at Mindgruve, lives at the epicenter of this shift every day. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Rachel pulls back the curtain on why focusing on "why it happened" shuts people down, and why the real test of seniority isn't just doing the work.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Toothpaste Principle" of CommunicationWhy your words are like toothpaste squeezed from a tube, and how intentional communication (practiced in downtime) prevents you from saying something you can never take back, especially when tensions run high across age gaps.Radical Candor in Real Time"What we need to do at the moment is focus on the work and the improvements we need to see in the work."How Kim Scott's framework helped Rachel shift from unhelpful "why did this happen?" questions to problem-focused feedback that keeps defenses down and solutions moving forward, regardless of whether you're managing a Boomer or a Gen Z.Why Junior Talent Wants Promotions Faster (And What They're Missing)"Doing something once or twice or over 3 months is not the same as doing it for 2 years."The hidden gap between "I did the work" and "I am ready to single-handedly own a client relationship," plus why managers do a disservice when they promote before true readiness, and how to have that honest conversation without crushing ambition.The Real New Digital Divide“We still need team members to interface directly with clients to help them solve what their marketing challenges are.”Why AI isn't replacing junior team members yet, and why the true career differentiator across generations remains the ability to interface directly with clients, solve marketing challenges, and prove your worth in revenue dollars.___________________________________No company wants to lose its young talent. However, when an employee’s personal expectations don’t align with the company's, irreconcilable differences can arise. Younger generations want to climb the career ladder quickly. When they deliver the expected results, how do we know when it’s time for the next step?Learn more in our latest blog post. "Promote or Not? A Practical Framework for Testing Seniority."___________________________________About the Guest:Rachel Gigli Carrieri is Senior Vice President of Global Client Experience at Mindgruve, where she leads the agency's account strategy and project management team. With over 20 years of integrated marketing and strategy experience, Rachel's expertise focuses on the seamless integration and execution of paid, owned, and earned channels for both consumer and B2B brands. Prior to Mindgruve, Rachel worked on both the client-side and agency-side for some of the world's top marketing agencies and global brands like BMW, CBRE, Kraft Foods, and Petco. A mentor, leader, and advocate for intentional communication across generations, Rachel brings both compassion and candor to every client relationship and team interaction.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-gigli-carrieri/Fun Facts:🌍 She has traveled to over 33 countries.🗣️ She speaks French, Russian, and German.🚫 She has been alcohol-free for over 5 years.___________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Are you overwhelmed by urgent tasks and struggling to maintain your composure in a world that demands instant results? In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with Rounak Kharait, executive director at E3 Consulting and author of Building High-Performance Resilient Teams: A People Leader’s Guide, to uncover practical strategies for managing urgency without panicking. Drawing from his experience in renewable energy spanning over a decade, and the lessons he learned from a mentor who shaped his leadership philosophy, Rounak explains how leaders can transition from reactive firefighting to calm, intentional decision-making.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Difference Between Urgent and ImportantWhy every stakeholder believes their project is both, and how to use a simple tree-diagram method to filter what actually matters, protecting your team from overwhelm while still meeting critical deadlines.Why "Making Everybody Happy" Is a Trap"You can't keep everybody happy at the same time. It's just not physically possible."The hard truth about leadership: you can't please everyone. Learn how to decide who you may need to disappoint, and how to communicate those decisions with clarity and empathy.How to Lead in the Gray"We have to be comfortable with being gray, or being somewhere in between."For engineers and binary thinkers, leadership is uncomfortable. It lives in the 0.2s, not the 0s and 1s. Discover why embracing ambiguity and saying "I don't know" builds more trust than pretending to have all the answers.The Four Pillars of Resilient Teams“It's important to understand your team members' personalities when assigning them tasks.”From laying the foundation by truly knowing your people, to experimenting with stretch assignments, to embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, Rounak reveals the principles he learned as a teenage cricket captain that still guide his leadership today._____________________________________________Anxiety and stress are two things that heighten our sense of urgency. Our inner world affects our ability to think objectively. Since we’re constantly bombarded with stressors, it eventually affects our performance.Learn more in our latest blog post. "How to Detox from the News." _____________________________________________About the Guest: Rounak Kharait is Executive Director at E3 Consulting and a seasoned leader with over fifteen years of experience in the renewable energy industry. He has helped develop high-performance, resilient teams across some of the largest renewable energy companies in the world, supporting large-scale solar and storage projects from development to financing. A mentor, writer, and advocate for a sustainable future, Rounak is the author of Building High-Performance Resilient Teams: A People Leader’s Guide, where he shares the leadership philosophies he learned from his coach and mentor.Social HandlesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rounakkharait Website: http://rounakkharait.com/ Fun Facts:📚 He has written a book alongside his full-time role.🎙️ He hosts a podcast, so tune in for his insights!✍️ He is also a songwriter, because one creative outlet just wasn't enough.__________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcast

The world feels heavy. Between military conflicts, civil unrest, and constant geopolitical tension, it's not just the news cycle that's disrupted… It's our workplaces. In this timely and essential episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with Kimberly Davis, founder of Brave Leadership, to tackle the urgent question on every leader's mind: How do you guide your team through uncertainty when you're struggling with it yourself? Kimberly shares a powerful framework for moving from survival mode to intentional leadership, proving that you don't need to be superhuman to create a safe, productive environment.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Elephant in the Room (Literally)“When the elephant wants to go in a different direction than the rider, who's gonna win? The elephant, all day long.”Kimberly breaks down the brilliant metaphor from Switch to explain why you can't logic your way through raw emotion. Ignoring your team's feelings doesn't make them disappear; it gives them the power to destroy productivity and trust.Your Silence is Speaking Volumes"When there's an absence of information, our brains are going to fill in that empty space. And it's often not going to fill in the way we want it to."Discover why staying silent to avoid conflict actually creates more damage. Your team is already making up stories about what you think and feel, learn how to step in before those stories erode their trust in you.The 90-Second Rule for Lowering the Temperature"Give them about 90 seconds to speak through it in a way that will lower that emotion."When an employee is highly charged, logic is useless. Kimberly provides a simple, actionable technique to help someone feel seen and heard, which is the only way to defuse the emotion and eventually have a logical conversation.Healthy Vulnerability vs. OversharingLeaders must be human, but they also need healthy boundaries. Learn the critical difference between being authentically vulnerable and oversharing in a way that can cause more harm than good.________________________________________What's your news consumption costing you?Higher stress. Lower focus. A 21.5% rise in workplace incivility. And a team that feels the weight of every headline you carry into the room.The answer isn't disconnecting completely. It's intentionality.Read the full guide in our latest blog post. "How to Detox from the News." ________________________________________About the Guest: Kimberly Davis is the founder of Brave Leadership, where she champions emerging leaders and senior managers navigating today's tumultuous workplace. She teaches leadership programs worldwide and serves on the faculty for SMU Cox School of Business' Executive Education. A TEDx speaker and award-winning author, her book Brave Leadership was named among Inc. Magazine's most impactful books to read. The updated edition was released in June 2025.Social handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlydavisonstage/ Fun Facts:🏉 Her leadership philosophy was shaped on the rugby field🌍 She has taught women leaders from over 20 countries📍 She makes her home in San Diego, CaliforniaAbout Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Is a $56 billion productivity loss the price of not understanding each other at work? In this episode of Speak In Flow, host Melinda Lee sits down with Gabe Wright, a trial attorney and partner at Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP, to unpack the very real cost of the generational disconnect in today's workplace. With 25 years of experience, Gabe moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal the practical strategies leaders need to bridge the gap between Boomers, Gen X, and the incoming workforce.This is a crucial conversation for anyone feeling the friction of a multi-generational team, from seasoned executives trying to retain young talent to new professionals wondering why their hard work isn't translating into the partnership they envision.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Real Root of the Generational FrictionIt’s not about entitlement or laziness. Gabe explains how major societal events, from the Great Recession to COVID, have shaped the values and expectations of younger generations, creating a fundamental clash in workplace commitment and loyalty.The "Trust but Verify" Approach to AI"They need to learn to leverage... It's like trust but verify. Yes, it is a faster way to do it, but it is not entirely a reliable way to do it. You've got to use your brain."While younger generations are quick to adopt AI, Gabe highlights the critical blind spot: treating AI output as gospel. Learn why the most valuable skill is pairing AI's speed with the wisdom to catch its "hallucinations," especially in high-stakes fields like law.How to Have the "Money Talk" and Create Buy-In“If you made as much as me, where does that land the organization?”Discover Gabe’s powerful technique for having transparent conversations about finances and profitability. This approach transforms entitled demands into a shared understanding of business reality, often leading to innovative solutions that benefit both the employee and the firm.Why Face-to-Face is the Only Way Forward“Reading the room is a lost art.”Gabe makes a compelling case for why you can't mentor or build trust through email. He shares how bringing junior team members into the room for real-world interactions, and crucially, debriefing them afterwards, is the key to developing the next generation of leaders.-------------------------------------------Intergenerational communication can be really complicated. Over the years, it seems as if different generations stop speaking the same language. That's why we need to develop a shared language, a way to ensure that no words are wasted and nothing gets lost in translation.Read more in our latest blog post. "The Effectiveness of Communication Minimalism." -------------------------------------------About the Guest: Gabe Wright is a partner at Hanson Bridgett, where he serves as a trial and litigation attorney handling high-stakes class actions, commercial litigation, and real estate disputes for clients in state and federal courts across the country.His leadership extends beyond the courtroom. He has served on his firm's Board of Directors, its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and as Litigation Area Chair for the San Diego office. With 25 years of experience, Gabe is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of legal talent, bridging the gap between seasoned professionals and young attorneys through transparency.Social handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabewrightesq/Fun Facts:🏙️ East Coast native navigating life in Southern California👧 Proud girl-dad who wouldn't trade it for anything🏋️ Gym rat who believes in showing up, even when it's hard🌊 Paddleboarder chasing sunsets on the water📚 Holds a Master's in Political Science with a focus on political theoryAbout Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

International teams are now an everyday thing. Even if you have all of your team with you, it's probable that if you need to do some inter-department collaboration, you'll need to switch to online. This is part of our new reality, but there's a silent problem that is already costing employees and the company, and almost nobody is talking about it: time zones.In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with Gerald Lowe, VP of American Worldwide Agencies, to uncover how global teams can move from overwhelmed to organized. With 89% of white-collar workers now operating in global virtual teams, mastering cross-zone communication isn't optional.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Hidden Cost of Information Overload"Why drawing the line is so dependent on the business you're dealing with."How the constant flood of emails, Slack messages, and texts creates a domino effect that impacts everything from client satisfaction to team morale, and why missing just one update can cost millions.Rethinking Job Descriptions"That is what we see job descriptions as. Love it."Gerald's powerful bowling-alley analogy reveals why job descriptions should act as guardrails that keep people focused on what matters, helping them distinguish between core responsibilities and daily distractions.The Year of the Horse Framework"Did you know that 2026 is the year of the horse? Which means action and momentum."How American Worldwide Agencies aligned 170+ employees around three universal concepts that work from the C-suite to the warehouse floor, and why consistency matters more than complexity.Why "Dialogue Isn't Always Positive, and That's Okay"Creating psychological safety means making room for respectful friction. Learn how quarterly performance reviews and company-wide workshops keep communication channels open, honest, and productive._________________________________________BLOG:Minimalist communication is not only about word economy. Choosing the right channel, time, and approach to communication is also a central part of it, and the fastest way to stop messaging overload.Read more in our latest blog post. "The Effectiveness of Communication Minimalism." _________________________________________About the Guest: Gerald Lowe is Vice President at American Worldwide Agencies (AWA), a global freight forwarding firm where he leads operations, pricing, and offshore teams across the U.S., Colombia, the Philippines, and South Africa.His leadership philosophy was forged on the rugby field. But his credibility was built from the ground up, starting on the warehouse floor unloading trucks. Gerald is passionate about people development, designing career pathways, and cultural initiatives that align with AWA's core values. His philosophy: dialogue drives clarity, action drives progress, and recognition drives culture.Social handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerald-lowe/ Fun Facts:📖 He has read The Alchemist every New Year's since turning 18🎵 His three desert-island songs: "I'm on Fire" (Springsteen), "The Gambler" (Theuns Jordaan), "Wicked Game" (Chris Isaak).🥩 Dinner guest in history? Teddy Roosevelt, for the national parks and "the man in the arena."About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Staying professional when our emotions are overflowing is one of the most difficult things we have to face in our professional careers, even more so when these emotions are caused by the work itself, as it tends to be the case when we face chronic stress. But when does simple exhaustion cross the line into full-blown burnout? And how does it begin to shape not just how we feel, but how we communicate?In this episode of Speak In Flow, host Melinda Lee sits down with Dr. Radha Duttagupta, VP, Clinical Affairs at Nucleix, to explore the silent epidemic of burnout, a condition that affects 55% of Americans today, and its profound impact on how we show up at work and in life.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Official Definition of Burnout“It is real. Burnout is a real thing; it is not an imagined condition.”It’s not "all in your head." Dr. Duttagupta breaks down the World Health Organization’s official criteria for burnout, defining it as chronic, unmanaged workplace stress that leads to exhaustion, negativity, and reduced performance.The "Staccato" Communication Style“I think the first thing you feel is there's a loss of energy, right? There's a loss of cognitive capacity.”How to spot burnout in yourself and others through communication cues, short answers, a lack of curiosity, transactional language, and a withdrawal from meaningful connection. Why High-Performers Are Most at Risk“We also have a tendency to reward high performance with more work, right? So work flows to competence.”Discover the dangerous cycle where top performers are rewarded with more work, leading them to normalize overwork and tie their entire identity and self-worth to their output.The 2-Minute Burnout CheckAn introduction to the HBR burnout checklist, which measures six key pillars, from workload and autonomy to reward and community, to help you take stock of where you really stand._________________________________________Is there any real benefit to inclusion? Many think inclusion is just performative social policy, but statistics show otherwise. Representation is effective in companies, and its absence comes at a cost. Read more in our latest blog post. "Representation Beyond DEI." _________________________________________About the Guest: Dr. Radha Duttagupta is VP of Clinical Affairs at Nucleix, where she brings over 16 years of experience across precision diagnostics to shape complex evidence strategies and advance patient-centered outcomes research. With an end-to-end understanding of product development and clinical research, she has spent her career building the bridge between rigorous science and real-world human impact.Beyond her scientific leadership, Dr. Duttagupta is deeply committed to cultivating the next generation of leaders. She is passionate about building and scaling high-performing, mission-driven teams, mentoring emerging leaders and early-stage companies, and fostering inclusive cultures to expand representation and opportunity within the scientific community.Social handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radha-duttagupta-ph-d-53366214 Fun Fact:🌲 The 63-by-63 Challenge: She has set herself the goal of visiting all 63 U.S. national parks by the time she turns 63._________________________________________About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Now that DEI initiatives have been defunded, debated, and dismissed by some of the world's biggest companies, the conversation is still going strong. Producer Brian McLaughlin sits down with Melinda Lee in this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast to talk about what actually works when the performative stuff falls away. With decades of experience in film and television, Brian challenges the idea that the playing field is level and explains why representation was never about quotas; it was always about building something better.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Real Source of Pushback"Why are people still complaining?"Brian addresses the question head-on, exploring why resistance to DEI usually stems from a lack of exposure to others' lived experiences, not from malice, and how leaders can respond.Beyond the Label"It's not about being a social justice warrior. It's good for the organization."How to move the conversation from performative checkboxes to organic, authentic inclusion that serves the mission.The Business Case for RepresentationWhy homogeneous rooms produce homogeneous results, and how bringing diverse perspectives into leadership and creative spaces leads to better products, stronger teams, and greater financial success.When Inclusion Becomes Invisible"I created an International Space Station story. The diversity was a byproduct, not the goal."How to build teams and tell stories where representation happens organically, because it serves the story, not because it meets a requirement.__________________________The best leaders understand that representation is a strategic advantage, not just a political label. To maximize your team's potential, you must understand that representation is not about slogans; it's about building organizations where the best ideas win. To achieve this, you need the widest range of people contributing.Learn how to build a winning team and retain diverse talent in our latest blog. "Representation Beyond DEI." __________________________About the Guest: Brian McLaughlin is a producer and co-president of Emerald Elephant Entertainment, with four feature films acquired for distribution and two streaming on Amazon Prime. He has developed over 100 projects as a consulting producer and currently has multiple TV series in development with networks and studios.A PGA member serving on Diversity and Mentoring committees, his credits include COVID compliance leadership for Disney, OWN, and ABC on series like American Horror Stories. His writing has been a PAGE Awards quarter-finalist and selected for the PGA Diversity Workshop, where he now mentors.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mclaff9/IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1701744/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaff19/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mclaff9/Fun Facts:🎬 100+ Projects: Consulting producer on over 100 film and TV projects.🎖️ Afghanistan Veteran: Former paratrooper who later produced documentaries with Afghan crews.📝 PGA Mentor: PAGE Awards honoree who now mentors in the PGA Diversity Workshop.🤝 10 Years Giving Back: Longtime volunteer with the Writers Guild Foundation's Veterans Writing Project.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Are we heading for a robot apocalypse, or a renaissance? Pete Sacco, founder of PTS Data Center Solutions and a former quantum physicist, has a radical and hopeful take on our AI-powered future. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Pete dismantles the "Terminator" mentality, arguing that artificial intelligence isn't here to replace us, but to reveal just how deeply human we can become.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why This Time is Different“When Gutenberg invented the printing press, his critics said it would spread chaos and heresy. Instead, he democratized knowledge.”From the printing press to the calculator, every generation has feared new technology. Pete explains why AI is simply the next step in human enlightenment and how we always adapt and thrive.The Clock Analogy: It's Only 2 AMWe are in the earliest days of AI's potential. Discover why we are just scratching the surface and how the next 22 hours on the "AI clock" will transform our world beyond recognition.From Haves and Have-Nots to Knows and Know-Nots“Quantum computers can solve powerful classes of problems, but you have to ask the right questions.”The new digital divide won't be about access to information, but the ability to ask the right questions. We explore how our children's success will depend on their partnership with super-intelligent tools.Why AI Will Protect Us“Our consciousness was here before all things.”Pete shares his belief that when AI achieves superintelligence, it will uncover the fundamental nature of the universe and realize how uniquely precious humanity is, leading it to treat us like its own children.BLOG:Words have power. But what does that really mean? How can we harness that power? The connections between our words, thoughts, and actions are deeper than we realize.Learn how to use them to your advantage in our latest blog post. "Manifesting is not Magic, it's Action." About the Guest: Pete Sacco is an entrepreneur, technologist, and modern-day philosopher-sage whose work bridges the worlds of AI infrastructure and human consciousness. As the founder and CEO of PTS Data Center Solutions, he leads a portfolio of companies that specialize in AI infrastructure, sustainable energy, and next-generation data centers.He is the author of Living in Bliss and his latest book, THE BRIDGE: How Building AI Infrastructure Taught Me That Human Consciousness Is The Real Technology, which positions AI and human consciousness not as competitors, but as complementary forces shaping humanity's future.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petertsacco/X: https://x.com/PeteSaccoCEOFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Pete-Sacco/61573911350074/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeteSaccoCEOInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/petesaccoofficialTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@petesaccoWebsite: https://petesacco.com/About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Have you ever spoken a goal into existence, only to watch it fade away? What’s the difference between a forgotten New Year's resolution and a reality you deliberately create? Natasha Kehimkar, founder of Melita Advisors, joins Melinda Lee to demystify the powerful practice of “speaking it into reality.”Moving far beyond simple visualization, this conversation reveals the neuroscience-backed formula of intention, feeling, and action that turns spoken words into tangible results.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Intention + Feeling + ActionWhy simply visualizing a goal isn't enough. Discover the three-part engine that creates real momentum: a clear intention, the authentic feeling of already having achieved it, and the aligned actions that naturally follow.The Neuroscience of Spoken Goals“When we put our intentions out there, we actually start to see possibilities and opportunities that were always around us, we just weren't paying attention.”How declaring your goals aloud rewires your brain to notice resources, tools, and pathways that were previously invisible.Transforming Obstacles from Brick Walls to Speed Bumps“Obstacles become speed bumps, instead of a brick wall.”How the act of vocalizing your commitment builds resilience. When you’ve declared your intention to others, setbacks become challenges to navigate, not reasons to quit, fostering a powerful growth mindset.Allowing Receiving“We don't have to muscle through everything on our own.”Why your network is your greatest manifesting asset. By sharing your intention, you invite collaboration, ideas, and support from your community and the universe, moving you from forceful striving to graceful, supported achievement.BLOG:We break down the neuroscience and practical psychology behind creating your desired outcomes. We reveal a clear, actionable framework for the ambitious skeptic who's intrigued by the idea of "speaking things into reality" but is tired of vague promises and mystical thinking.explore how vocalizing your plans builds real-world accountability in our latest blog post, "Manifesting is not Magic, it's Action." About the Guest: Natasha Kehimkar is the CEO of Malida Advisors, a strategic firm that builds exceptional, future-ready leadership teams. With nearly 30 years of experience at companies like OpenTable and Pfizer, she’s a sought-after “rapid response expert” for executive alignment and organizational transformation. An accredited executive coach, she holds advanced HR qualifications and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership.Social Handles:Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashakehimkar/Website: www.malidaadvisors.comFun Facts:👪HR Dynasty: Human Resources runs in the family; her mother and father-in-law were both in HR.💪Dual-Coach Credentials: She is both an accredited executive/team coach and a certified spin instructor (a very different type of coaching!).👓Perpetual Learner: Is currently in a doctorate program focused on Organizational Change and Leadership.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Beyond the AI hype, we see a stark divide: failed implementations that waste time and resources, and success stories that redefine entire industries. What makes the difference? Vadim Peskov, CEO of DIFFCO and an AI advisor with nearly a decade in the field, joins Melinda Lee on the Speak in Flow podcast to reveal the one critical factor separating leaders from laggards.This episode is a must-listen for any leader ready to bridge the gap between AI potential and tangible business results.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Gap Between Hype and ExecutionWhy most AI "failures" stem from a simple misunderstanding, not technical limits. Vadim explains why treating AI like a magic genie with one-line prompts leads to dead ends, and how shifting from a user to a strategic operator mindset is the first step to real impact.From "Founder Mode" to Strategic Operator“If you don't know the flows of your processes, you should be replaced as CEO.”Why dabbling with chatbots isn't a strategy. Learn why executives must deeply understand AI's capabilities and constraints to make informed decisions that protect their business and unlock scalable opportunities.Building the "10x Business" with AI Augmentation“You want to enhance humans with AI. You want to give them a tool to be more productive. So you can have the same workforce, but just do more things.”How AI enables businesses of 10 to outperform legacy players with 1,000. Vadim shares concrete examples, from insurance to manufacturing, showing how AI doesn't replace teams but transforms them into super-reviewers who oversee and refine AI-executed workflows, achieving unprecedented scale and accuracy.Review, Don't Create“We can do a lot of research and understanding with AI that a human definitely will not have time to do. But we can learn from the human what we need to look for.”Discover the paradigm shift where AI prepares reports, generates insights, and flags issues, turning management into a high-value approval loop that takes minutes instead of days.BLOG:Crises can arise at any time, and one thing is certain: they will not occur when you expect them to. The way you communicate during this time plays a more significant role than you may realize in overcoming the crisis. Do you have the necessary tools? Discover more in our latest blog post, "The Art of Crisis Communication." About the Guest: Vadim Peskov is the CEO of DIFFCO and an advisor at Alchemist Accelerator, where he helps startups and enterprises translate AI hype into scalable business results. With nearly a decade of expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and product development, he is a sought-after speaker who focuses on the practical implementation of intelligent technology.He is a sought-after expert and speaker who demystifies AI, translating complex concepts into actionable strategies for growth, efficiency, and competitive disruption.Social Handles:Company website: https://diffco.us/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadimpeskov/ X: https://x.com/vadimpeskov Fun Facts:✈️ Aviation Enthusiast: A licensed pilot who finds clarity and perspective above the clouds.📸 Exhibited Artist: Pursues landscape photography at a semi-professional level, with work featured in multiple exhibitions.🔧 Hands-On Tinkerer: Loves experimenting with IoT and AI side projects for fun, blending hobby with expertise.🚶 Walking Meeting Advocate: Firmly believes that the best strategic thinking and conversations happen while on the move.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Today, the world feels like it's in a constant state of crisis. Every day news seems to destabilize us. We don't need to contribute to that. But how can we maintain clarity in our communication when everything else seems so muddy? In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee sits down with Dr. David Yudis, a leadership psychologist and former head of talent development at Disney. Together, they break down the art of leading under pressure, sharing the simple mental tools and human-first principles that transform you from a reactive participant into a grounded leader who provides calm and clarity.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Grounding Power of “So What?”Discover the simple, two-word tool to immediately center yourself and your message in any high-pressure situation.How to transform reactive panic into a clear, actionable focus for your team by asking, “So what does this mean for us, and what do we do about it?”The Two Leadership Traps in a CrisisUnderstand why leaders often fail to connect when the pressure is on.The dangers of reactive, emotionally-hijacked communication versus the potential disconnect of appearing “too calm,” and how to find the authentic, grounded middle path.Self-Awareness Before Strategy“What is the message that you are trying to communicate, and to whom, and… how can you best make that connection?”How to cultivate the self-awareness that forms the foundation of emotional intelligence and prevents “stress leakage” that can undermine your leadership over time.The Strength in “I Don’t Know”“Here’s what we know, here’s what we don’t, here’s our next step.”Admitting uncertainty and pairing it with a clear action plan is the ultimate leadership move in an uncertain situation.BLOG:Do you need the right words at the right time? As we all know, this is harder than it looks. However, in critical moments, this skill can mean the difference between sinking and staying afloat.Learn how in our latest blog post, "The Art of Crisis Communication." About the Guest: Dr. David Yudis is a transformational leadership architect who builds executive capability through designed experience. As a licensed clinical psychologist, former Head of Enterprise Executive Development at The Walt Disney Company, and founder of his leadership lab, Potential Selves, he bridges the profound gap between human behavior and high-stakes organizational performance.Guided by a belief that the deepest learning is visceral, not theoretical, he has pioneered a proprietary methodology called "The Game." A co-author of The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change and a Forbes Coaches Council contributor, Dr. Yudis now guides Fortune 500 executives through the ambiguity of capital raises, strategic pivots, and succession challenges.Social Handles:Website: www.davidyudis.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidyudis/ Fun Facts:🎤 Former Frontman: Was the lead singer for the new wave band New Millennium.🍽️ Curator of Curiosity: Once hosted a dinner that included a world-renowned quantum physicist, an NBA play expert, and an Olympic coach.🗣️ Polyglot: Speaks three languages: English, Spanish, and New York.🧳 Five Lives Lived: He has authentically lived five distinct professional and personal lives so far.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Is the hype surrounding AI heading for a painful reckoning? Cameron Nutter, the CEO of GooseRox Ventures, cuts through conflicting studies and venture capital fervor to provide a clear-eyed view of the immediate costs and long-term potential of AI. In this episode of The Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Cameron reveals why 95% of AI pilots fail and explains why the future belongs to strategic partners, not passive users.In This Episode, You Will Learn:AI's Dual Reality“Artificial intelligence is not a monolith.”How to reconcile the startling data that shows 95% of AI pilots fail (MIT) while 75% of organizations report positive returns (Wharton), and what this means for your strategic investments.Beyond the Hype Cycle to Concrete ValueWhy the ultimate value of AI isn't in drafting emails, but in “getting it close to the data” to uncover insights and make faster, better strategic decisions, transforming everything from consulting to long-term planning.SMBs and Strategic Adoption“Achieving AI success is hard, but for those that do, the rewards are very significant.”Why the biggest opportunity for AI isn't with tech giants, but with small and medium-sized businesses and non-technical leaders, and how focusing on specific, high-value use cases will win over broad, buzzword-chasing applications.Navigating the VC “Self-Fulfilling Prophecy”“The promise of AI is immense; its costs are real and immediate.”A forecast for the next five years: why the current flood of AI investment may lead to a significant shakeout, and how to spot the enduring companies that solve real problems over those riding a wave of valuation hype.BLOG:The development and implementation of new technologies, along with the organizational changes that accompany them, have led to a period of significant stress. In this context, it is essential to know how to detect burnout in yourself and your team in order to maintain balance and good communication. Learn more in our latest blog post, "Signs of Burnout and how to manage it when there is no time for vacation." About the Guest: Cameron Nutter is a value, sustainability, and impact-focused CEO and board member with a proven track record from Wall Street to Silicon Valley. Guided by a core belief in equality, integrity, and results. As the CEO and Managing Partner of GooseRox Ventures, he now channels this experience into guiding startups and investing in the future.A lifelong learner who practices the 'kaizen' philosophy of continuous improvement, Cameron is as dedicated to his community as he is to business. He commits over 200 hours annually to mentorship and volunteering, believing deeply that giving time is as critical as giving capital.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-nutter-381a852/ Website: www.gooseroxventures.com Fun Facts:🏃 Avid Runner: A dedicated fitness enthusiast who averages 40-50 miles of running per week.💘 A Fateful Meeting: Met his wife almost 20 years ago while they were both volunteering at a soup kitchen near Grand Central Station in NYC. He called his sister that same day to say he'd met the woman he would marry.🚗 Speedy Delivery: His second son, Cruz, was born in the car on the way to the hospital while Cameron was driving.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Burnout is not always loud; sometimes it goes unnoticed until the results show the signs we ignored in our daily performance.For Riley Gruppo, a U.S. Army officer, those signs culminated in a medical retirement due to severe PTSD, a turning point that began a profound journey from survival to purpose. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with host Melinda Lee, Riley shares how the “mission-first” mindset of the military taught her to override her own needs until her body and mind forced her to stop.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Courage to Heal & Lead“Vulnerability is the most courageous thing you can do as a leader.”How Riley's journey from a medical retirement due to severe PTSD led her to share her testimony with 200 soldiers, breaking the stigma and proving that healing is a sign of strength, not a career-ender.From "Mission First" to "People First"Why putting the mission ahead of your own well-being is a recipe for burnout, and how leaders can recognize their own red flags, and those of their team, before it’s too late.Creating Space for Magic“Slow down to have intentional mornings.”The critical importance of building intentional space, whether through therapy, vacation, or morning routines, not as a luxury, but as a necessary practice for sustainable success and unexpected opportunities.The Root of Unhappiness: Misalignment“Ultimately, what it boils down to, the unhappiness, the unfulfillment, is not recognizing what makes you as an individual tick. And how you can apply that to be fulfilled in your life.”How doing the “healing work” isn’t enough if you’re in the wrong role or environment. Riley explains the physical and emotional signs of misalignment and the empowering decision to walk away from what looks “perfect on paper.”BLOG:Are you tired, depressed, or burned out? Between juggling deadlines and personal responsibilities, it's easy to get used to putting our mental health on the back burner. However, this can come at a higher cost than you think.Read our latest article, "Signs of Burnout and how to manage it when there is no time for vacation." About the Guest: Riley A. Gruppo is a former U.S. Army Infantry–qualified officer and Public Affairs Company Commander who defied every rule society tried to write for her. After nearly a decade of service, leading soldiers through demanding environments while navigating trauma, stigma, and systems not built for women like her, she was medically retired in 2024.That pivotal moment became the catalyst for her new mission. Today, Riley is a full-time entrepreneur, speaker, and digital storyteller dedicated to transforming her scars into a roadmap for others. She empowers veterans, women, and trauma survivors to move from survival to strength, using raw, cinematic storytelling to break stigmas around mental health and build lives of purposeful leadership.Social Handles:Instagram & TikTok: _rileyavelinaLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rileygruppo?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appFun Facts:🐶 Devoted Dog Mom: To a beautiful rescue named Hercules.🥊 Former Fighter: Used to train and compete in MMA.🎹 Creative Outlet: Loves to unwind by playing the piano.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

With the advance of AI software, there are two types of companies today: Those that are already integrating AI into their processes and teams, and those being left behind due to fear. Which one is yours?In this essential episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, AI expert and 3x founder Anna Stepura dissects the top fears paralyzing leaders, from job replacement anxiety to decision fatigue.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The 3 Root Causes of AI ResistanceWhy fear of job replacement, belief that "AI isn't good enough yet," and overwhelming decision fatigue are paralyzing teams and leaders, and how to move past each one.From Task Worker to Strategic Orchestrator“It actually amplifies your job… You can serve 10 clients instead of 1.”How AI shifts the human role from manual execution to high-level strategy and decision-making, turning individual contributors into invaluable strategists.The 10% Experimentation Rule“You have to have at least 10% of your time, capacity, or budget for experimenting.”Why the most innovative leaders aren’t making million-dollar bets, but are running small, smart experiments with existing tools to find their highest ROI use cases.The New Pace of Progress“We would have more events in our lives… We would live a few lives compared to previous generations.”As AI accelerates business cycles and life events, Anna and Melinda discuss why protecting time for silence, reflection, and nervous system recalibration is not a luxury but a leadership necessity.BLOG:We use countless tools at work today, and they collect a large amount of data. AI is being implemented to decipher hidden patterns in this data. But can we trust it?Read our latest article, "How to Unify Data with AI for Strategic Decisions." About the Guest: Originally from Ukraine, Anna Stepura is a Silicon Valley–based 3x founder and AI marketing expert focused on building agentic AI systems for growth. She is the founder and CEO of Adlyse, an AI ads manager that acts like an AI worker for Google Ads. Through her consultancy, Forsify, she helps B2B tech companies systematize demand generation with AI-powered workflows across content. An alum of the prestigious Alchemist Accelerator, Anna previously founded and exited HireGPT, an AI-driven recruitment product.Social Handles:Website (startup): adlyse.com Website: forsify.com LinkedIn: Anna Stepura https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-stepura/ YouTube: Anna Stepura https://www.youtube.com/@AnnaStepura Fun Facts:🤸‍♀️ Practiced competitive gymnastics for 15 years; now a devoted gym and active-lifestyle enthusiast.📚 A serious pescatarian and performance-habits devotee, always deep in a self-development book.🤖 Lives by the product philosophy: “Build an AI teammate, not just a tool.”✈️ Has jumped with a parachute without an instructor.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Are your teams drowning in data but starving for insights? We live in the information era, yet scattered information can lead to catastrophic business decisions. In this episode of Speak In Flow with Melinda Lee, Yan Grinshtein, a veteran design leader and founder of Cepien AI, reveals how AI can finally unify your data to unlock strategic clarity.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Cost of Scattered Data“Employees have more data than ever before, but are less informed than ever before.”How the chain of command in large organizations distills, biases, and obscures critical information, leading to decisions made with incomplete insights.The New Speed of InsightDiscover how an AI's platform can connect to a company's entire toolset and transform the traditional 1-3 week insight synthesis process into a 10-minute, live analysis.Supercharging Teams, Not Replacing Them“We save about 41,000 hours a year for an average team of 20 people.”Yan shares research on what teams do with this reclaimed time: finally tackling strategic projects.AI’s Unexpected Strategic Leap“AI will replace people who did not adapt to it.”Unified data insights can bridge the gap between digital feedback and physical product strategy. The goal is to empower your people to do their best strategic work.BLOG:We use countless tools at work today, and they collect a large amount of data. AI is being implemented to decipher hidden patterns in this data. But can we trust it?Read our latest article, "How to Unify Data with AI for Strategic Decisions." About the Guest: Yan Grinshtein is a design leader whose path from homelessness to global career embodies resilience. A three-time immigrant who arrived in New York with $500, he built a 20-year career in human-centered design across multiple continents. Drawing from his international experience, artistic background, and firsthand understanding of overcoming adversity, Yan has led teams, shaped products, and mentored designers worldwide. Now the founder of Cepien AI, he helps teams transform scattered data into clear, strategic insights.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yangrinshtein/ X: https://x.com/yangrin Blog: https://medium.com/@yangrin Personal Website: https://www.yangrinshtein.com/ Company Website: cepien.ai Fun Facts:🌎 Has lived and worked on three continents, and English is his third language.📮 His design work has been featured on an official Israeli postal stamp.🎨 A former painter who sees data and AI as the next evolution of the creative canvas.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Every scientist in a leadership position understands the delicate balance of communication, hierarchy, and data that this environment requires to thrive. Amer Mirza, VP of Disease Biology at biotech Septerna, has mastered this balance, scaling the company from 9 to over 100 employees and steering teams through inflection points of drug discovery.In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, he shares his human-centric framework for leading under extreme pressure.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Four Pillars of High-Functioning TeamsAmer shares the non-negotiable framework he uses to guide teams,  establishing a common patient-centric vision, setting SMART goals, clarifying roles and responsibilities to avoid overlap, and creating systems to accurately measure progress.Creating Psychological Safety in a Pressure Cooker“Not every conversation can or should be a high-stakes conversation.”How to foster an environment where team members feel safe to ask “crazy” questions, pressure-test ideas, and communicate openly without fear.The Leader as a Facilitator, Not a Dictator“It’s your job as a leader to be a facilitator of their aspirations.”Amer’s mantra for empowering teams, delegating authority to those closest to the data, and investing in junior scientists by giving them ownership and a safety net to learn and grow.Decision-Making Protocols for Divergent OpinionsHow to avoid getting bogged down in endless debates by establishing clear strategies for conflict resolution and decision-making before tensions arise.BLOG:As 2026 approaches, all our goals and projections for the coming year are falling into place. But first, we should look back and ask ourselves, “How was my 2025?” Learn to build with intention and treat the next year as your greatest project yet.Read our latest article, "Are You Intentionally Building Your Legacy? A Leader’s Guide for 2026" About the Guest: Amer Mirza is a biotech executive with over 20 years of experience leading therapeutic drug discovery and development in both high-growth startups and large pharmaceutical companies. His expertise spans multiple disease areas and drug modalities. He has managed over 40 programs (including 14 IND submissions), contributed to major regulatory filings, and mentored more than 60 scientists, all while authoring numerous patents and publications.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amer-mirza-972b177/Fun Facts:🎨 The Watercolor Strategist: He finds a parallel between the deliberate layers of watercolor painting and the thoughtful, iterative process of scientific discovery.🍳 The Culinary Alchemist: Amer loves combining flavors in the kitchen, viewing cooking as both a creative and precise science.🎶 The Audiophile Archivist: With an extensive vinyl collection, he appreciates the rich, authentic experience of analog sound.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, and like your body is changing in your 40s? Dr. Josée Poulin, a physician turned functional medicine expert, reveals why "normal" lab results don't tell the whole story and shares a holistic path to reclaiming your energy, confidence, and health in midlife. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Josée moves beyond band-aid solutions to explore the root causes of burnout, the transformative power of food and breath, and why healing happens in a state of joy.This episode is a must-listen for any professional woman feeling stuck in cycles of fatigue and overwhelm, ready to build a sustainable, unstoppable foundation for the decades ahead.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A Doctor’s Journey to Root-Cause HealingJosée’s personal story of physician burnout reveals the critical gap in Western medicine: treating symptoms in silos rather than the whole person. Signs Your Body is Recalibrating“Sleep disturbances, midsection weight gain, and feeling drained all the time are signals, not sentences.”Learn to recognize the key symptoms of hormonal shifts in perimenopause and midlife, and understand why they are a call to action for foundational health, not just a reason to “push through.”Your Foundational Toolkit“Food is medicine, your breath is free, and connection is transformative.”Move beyond quick fixes with Josée’s three pillars for rebuilding resilience: using nutrition as foundational fuel, wielding the 4-7-8 breathing technique for instant calm, and finding a supportive community that believes in your growth.Where Real Healing Happens“Healing doesn’t have to be heavy.”True, lasting health flourishes in a state of safety, calm, and joy. Learn why incorporating fun, laughter, and lightness into your wellness journey is a physiological necessity for your nervous system.BLOG:One of the best ways to avoid burnout is to build a team that knows how to take accountability. Empower your team so that you don't have to carry the load alone, and everyone can lift their own weight.Read our latest article, "Empowering Your Team to Take True Ownership." This article breaks down the exact, actionable steps to shift from a culture of finger-pointing to one of genuine ownership.About the Guest: Dr. Josée Poulin is a passionate physician on a mission to transform how women experience midlife. With a foundation in hospital medicine and advanced training in functional and integrative care, she empowers women to take control of their health through personalized, science-backed programs that bridge conventional and holistic medicine.Recognizing the gaps in traditional care, especially around menopause, Dr. Poulin founded The Unstoppable Women’s Academy, a community dedicated to helping women feel strong, vibrant, and confident through midlife and beyond. She is a member of The Menopause Society and the Institute for Functional Medicine, combining the latest medical science with a compassionate, whole-person approach to healing.Social Handles:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_josee_poulin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/josee.poulin.988 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jos%C3%A9e-poulin-555335293/ Website: joseepoulin.com Fun Facts:🎵 The Prescription of Joy: Josée champions the "Mary Poppins Phenomenon," adding a spoonful of fun and joy to everything she does. She often brings music, dancing, and her skills on the piano, guitar, and ukulele into her group sessions, believing joy is powerful medicine.💪 The Strength Builder: This year, she focused on building muscle and went from zero to conquering four consecutive pull-ups, embodying her own unstoppable journey of strength and resilience.🚿 The Healing Soprano: Her unofficial barometer for being "in flow?" Singing in the shower!About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In the fast-paced world of tech and design, leaders often face immense pressure to deliver, sometimes at the cost of their team's humanity. How do you champion user experience without sacrificing your team's experience? In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast, Melinda Lee is joined by Marjan Zamanian, a senior leader in UX and accessibility, who shares her empathetic framework for alleviating these tensions by empowering teams.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Empowerment and Accountability“If the team is not empowered, they're not going to be engaged, therefore they're not going to feel accountable.”How shifting from a top-down approval model to a co-creation model unlocks your team's ownership and drive.Building a Confident Voice and Presence“It's okay to take more space.”Marjan’s personal journey from being told she couldn't attend a technical school to leading in tech, and the surprising physical practice she uses (and recommends to her team) to project confidence and clarity.Inclusive Leadership for Introverts and ExtrovertsWhy traditional meetings often fail and how using workshops and silent writing exercises ensures every team member, especially the quietest, is seen, heard, and can contribute their best ideas.The Leadership "North Star"How to translate a high-level company vision into a co-created team strategy. Marjan explains her process for building milestones with her team, ensuring everyone is aligned and motivated by a shared purpose.BLOG:Empowering your team sounds great in theory, but what does it actually look like on a Tuesday afternoon? If "fostering accountability" feels like a vague leadership cliché, you're not alone.Read our latest article, "Empowering Your Team to Take True Ownership" This article breaks down the exact, actionable steps to shift from a culture of finger-pointing to one of genuine ownership.About the Guest: Marjan Zamanian is a Senior Manager overseeing the Eligibility & Enrollment Experience at Covered California, where she leads product and design initiatives to ensure Californians can seamlessly access affordable, high-quality healthcare. With over 13 years of experience across the private and public sectors, she is a passionate leader who bridges user experience, accessibility, and service design to create digital services that are truly intuitive and human-centered.Social Handles:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjanzamanian/ Website: https://marjanzamanianart.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marjanzamanianart/?__pwa=1 Fun Facts:🎨 The Artist-Leader: Outside of her professional work, Marjan is a contemporary mixed-media artist.🛣️ A Master of Reinvention: Marjan has successfully navigated three distinct career paths, building brands in advertising and design, leading product design and management in the tech private sector, and now applying her expertise to public service in government.🧘‍♀️ The Yoga of Leadership: She is a proponent of bringing mindfulness and physical presence into the workplace, even suggesting team yoga poses to clear the mind.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Making a huge mistake when you are new at your job is everyone's nightmare. Now imagine doing it in your first two weeks, and on top of that, putting other people's livelihoods at risk.Ramon Lim, Chief of Staff at DDN, lived through this crisis and faced an agonizing choice: hide the error or come clean. In this raw conversation with Melinda Lee on the Speak in Flow podcast, he shares how this early career failure became his most powerful lesson in integrity, proving that vulnerability is the foundation of true leadership.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Integrity Crossroads“A job is just a job. You stay with yourself forever.”Life is made of choices, and our choices make us who we are. Ramon shares how facing the agonizing choice of whether to hide a costly mistake to save face or come clean and risk his new reputation taught him everything he needed to know about integrity.Moving On After the Mess-Up“Do everything you can, but realize you might not be able to reverse the whole thing, and that is okay.”A practical framework for damage control: from taking ownership and apologizing to accepting imperfect outcomes and, most importantly, giving yourself permission to move forward without being paralyzed by fear.The Leader's Guide to Risk and Decision-Making“Not taking a risk is costing money.”How to make informed decisions under pressure by asking one simple question: “Are we willing to accept the worst-case scenario?” and why democratizing intelligence with AI is changing the risk calculus for everyone.The Habit of Communicating Impact“If somebody makes a positive impact on you, communicate it.” A simple yet profound practice to counteract our tendency to be our own harshest critics and to build a supportive environment where people feel seen and valued for their contributions.About the Guest: Ramon Lim is a business and technology executive recognized for bridging strategy and execution to drive enterprise-wide transformation. As VP and Chief of Staff to the CEO at DDN, a global leader in AI data intelligence, he partners with senior leadership to accelerate strategic priorities, scale operations, and foster a high-performance culture. With a career spanning leadership roles at Equinix and Informatica, as well as entrepreneurial ventures, Ramon combines deep operational acumen with a forward-looking approach to AI, organizational excellence, and business innovation.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramonlim/   Fun Facts:🌏A True Global Citizen: Ramon is of Asian descent but was born and raised in Mexico. This unique cross-cultural upbringing fundamentally shaped his appreciation for diversity and inclusion.🏫Berkeley to the Core: His academic roots run deep in Berkeley, having earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from the prestigious university, solidifying a foundation in engineering, operations, and business.🐶The Real Chiefs of Staff: He lives in San Francisco with two dachshunds who unapologetically run the household. They are his unofficial (and often vocal) co-pilots and can frequently be heard chiming in during work-from-home meetings.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

When there are people looking up to you, your actions are never irrelevant. In fact, they create a ripple effect that can either energize or drain your entire organization. Natasha Kehimkar, CEO of Malida Advisors, introduces the "Boulder Effect." The powerful impact leaders have when they invest in their own cohesion and purpose. In this conversation with Melinda Lee, she reveals how executive teams can transform from a source of stress into a central force for resilience, creating waves of safety, collaboration, and growth that push energy back to them.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Two Paths of Leadership Under PressureWhy leaders facing constraints either huddle into protective, competitive silos or choose to open up, operate as a "first team," and focus on the greater good of the organization, and how that choice defines the entire culture.From Commanding to Co-creating“We have, to some degree, created what's around us.”How to shift from a demanding, commanding leadership style to one that intentionally manifests a more collaborative and supportive environment by deciding what you will and will not tolerate.The "Boulder Effect"“Executive teams investing in their own development… the ripple effect of that is like putting a boulder in a pond.”Why investing in executive team alignment during uncertainty isn't an expense, but a critical long-term investment that creates waves of positive energy throughout the entire organization.The Power of Leader-Led Vulnerability“When leaders share those failure moments… it's a very powerful moment of connection.” How sharing your own stories of growth and missteps becomes a low-cost, high-impact way to invest in your people, build trust, and foster a culture of collective learning.About the Guest: Natasha Kehimkar is the visionary founder and CEO of Malida Advisors, where she specializes in shaping the leadership and culture of pioneering tech and life sciences companies. With a career spanning three decades, her expertise was forged in the fires of rapid growth and transformation at industry leaders like OpenTable, Guardant Health, and Pfizer. Natasha has earned a reputation as a "steady hand in a storm," expertly guiding executive teams through uncertainty to build the resilience and alignment required for long-term success.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashakehimkar/  Website: www.malidaadvisors.com Fun Facts:🧬 It's in Her DNA: A deep understanding of people and organizations runs in the family, with both her mother and father-in-law having built careers in HR.🚴‍♀️ Coaching in Stereo: She seamlessly transitions from coaching C-suite executives in the boardroom to leading high-energy classes as a certified spin instructor.🎓 Doctor in the Making: Ever committed to mastering her craft, she is currently advancing her knowledge by pursuing a doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Change initiatives are one of the most difficult projects to execute, often faced with resistance from every corner. Why do so many well-intentioned transformations fail? Executive coach Julia Wojnar reveals that the missing piece is rarely the strategy itself. In this insightful episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Julia provides a practical framework for moving from resistance to resilience, sharing how to identify hidden barriers and employ a powerful "future-focused" mindset to break negative cycles.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why Change Initiatives Fail“The top leaders… are often so focused on the finances, or the numbers, or the logistics… that they can sometimes ignore the people side of it.”How to move beyond spreadsheets and strategy to address the core emotions, fear, anxiety, and the desire for the status quo, that determine whether your team will embrace change or resist it.The "Future-Focus" Method to Overcome Resistance“If we were 6 months ahead… and that was solved, what would be different?”A simple yet powerful coaching question that instantly shifts your perspective from being stuck in a problem to envisioning a solution, helping you backtrack a clear path forward and dismantle negative self-talk.Leading Through TriggersJulia’s firsthand account of a client who was “visibly angry” in their first meeting reveals a masterclass in leadership composure. Discover how to maintain your center when faced with misplaced frustration, and why asking “How do I want this to end up?” is the key to de-escalating conflict and building psychological safety.The Leader's P.A.U.S.E“Sometimes if we just take a moment to… breathe, and to gather our thoughts… that truly helps just change our whole physiology to get us back connected with ourselves.” Why the deliberate pause is not a delay but an accelerator for smarter, faster, and more sustainable change, helping to prevent burnout and ensure you are leading from a place of clarity.About the Guest: Julia Wojnar is the CEO of CorpLeadership, an executive coaching firm that specializes in guiding top-performing leaders through pivotal organizational change. With a decade of experience as a certified Leadership Coach for Top Performance, she equips leaders to navigate intense transitions by reconnecting them with their core values and vision. Her intuitive, multidisciplinary approach, honed by working with clients across the globe, has established her as a trusted "people whisperer" for navigating the complex demands of today's business environment.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliawojnar/ Leadership Styles Quiz (Free Gift for all Listeners): www.corpleadership.com/style-quiz Fun Facts:🌍 Globetrotting Connoisseur: An avid traveler who has filled a passport with stamps from over 20 countries, Julia loves to explore new cultures.🍫 Dedicated Sweet Tooth: Her travels are often fueled by a love for desserts, with chocolate and ice cream ranking as her all-time favorite foods.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Have you ever wondered how the next generation will be impacted by AI? Michael Ostapenko, founder of Satryx, is building that future, and his vision goes beyond the hype. In this thought-provoking conversation with Melinda Lee, Michael dissects the current limits of AI and makes a compelling case for why our children won't be raised by rogue superintelligences, but instead, by powerful tools that lack human-like motivation.This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the world we are building for the next generation and how to prepare them for a partnership with intelligent technology.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The AI Tutor of TomorrowWhy the next generation will learn from AIs that are powerful logical reasoners, not just conversational chatbots, transforming education from memorization to master-level critical thinking.Preparing for a Partnership, Not a Takeover“Agency is a property of life, not intelligence.”How to alleviate anxiety for ourselves and our children by understanding the fundamental difference between a tool and a living entity.The New Digital Divide“Quantum computers can solve powerful classes of problems, but you have to ask the right questions.”As quantum computing and advanced AI unlock solutions to global problems, the next generation's challenge won't be access to information, but the ability to ask the right questions and wield these powerful tools ethically.Instilling "Creator Responsibility" in the Next Generation“At the end of the day, the responsibility is still on you.” Why teaching kids to code is no longer enough; we must teach them the ethics of the goals and constraints they program into intelligent systems.About the Guest: Michael Ostapenko is the founder and CEO of Satryx, a company on the cutting edge of artificial intelligence. With more than two decades of deep experience in science, engineering, and leadership, he is advancing automated reasoning on conventional hardware toward practically quantum-enabled performance. At Satryx, he is building a foundational platform that fuses these logical breakthroughs with modern machine learning. His long-term vision is to enable the next generation of AI systems that approach true human-level intelligence, capable of both semantic understanding and rigorous logical reasoning.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelostapenko Fun Fact:🚲 Gravity-Defying Survivor: Beyond the lab, Michael has tested his own limits, surviving a dramatic bike crash that involved executing a near-full flip in midair.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

The shocking murder of Charlie Kirk, a young, passionate voice with a massive platform, leaves us with difficult questions. Was his "Prove Me Wrong" approach a catalyst for dialogue or division? In this poignant episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, host Melinda Lee and leadership expert Dr. Joy Karavedas dissect the power and peril of an influential voice. They explore the legacy of a man killed for his beliefs and what his story teaches us about the responsibility we all carry to use our own voices for connection, and not just conviction.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Double-Edged Sword of a PlatformHow the "Prove Me Wrong" format, while confident and compelling, may have fueled division by putting people on the defensive under a public spotlight, and why a message can get lost or muddied when delivered on a large stage.When Dialogue Stops, Violence Begins“When they feel they have no more words to be able to defend themselves, they react differently.”A deep dive into Charlie Kirk's own quote and the tragic irony of his death. Explore the idea that when people feel they have no more words to defend their deeply held beliefs, they may resort to violence, highlighting the critical need for true dialogue.The Deeper Legacy Beyond Being "Right" or "Wrong"“When the whole goal is to prove me wrong... you're not trying to find common ground.”Why Charlie Kirk's legacy is more than his political stance. It's a stark reminder of the passion, conviction, and responsibility that comes with a powerful voice, and the heavy question: What do you believe in so strongly that you would be willing to die for it?How to Wield Your Voice for Connection“When we're using our voice, we're actually not just using our words, we're connecting.” Moving beyond debate to true dialogue. Learn why we must "listen to understand," not just to reply, and how to use our voices as a source of connection and positive influence in a divided world, regardless of our platform size.About the Guest: Dr. Joy Karavedas is an accomplished educator, conference speaker, and leadership expert with over 20 years of executive-level experience. As the Dean of Online Learning at Orange Lutheran High School, she leads innovative educational initiatives and designs flexible learning pathways for the next generation. She also serves as a Professor of Organizational Leadership and Behavior, equipping emerging leaders with the strategies they need to succeed. A published author of From Striving to Thriving, Dr. Karavedas is the founder of Karavedas Coaching and Consulting, where she provides customized services to help individuals and organizations strengthen their leadership, communication, and culture.Social Handles:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/drkaravedas Instagram - instagram.com/drkaravedas Facebook - facebook.com/drkaravedas Fun Facts:✍️ Prolific Author: Currently working on her second book, with a publication date set before the end of the year.🌎 World Explorer: An avid traveler who has visited 24 countries (with two more to be crossed off in December) and 30 U.S. states.👅 Super Taster: Possesses the unique genetic trait of being a "super taster," experiencing flavors more intensely than the average person.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Massimo Backus, founder of Massimo Backus Leadership and author of "Human First, Leader Second," is on a mission to dismantle the myth that self-criticism drives success. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Massimo reveals how the relentless pursuit of perfection fuels a "piggy bank of shame" for leaders and shares the transformative practice that builds true resilience.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Typo That Transformed a KeynoteHow a glaring mistake on a slide became a live masterclass in self-compassion, uniting a room of executives and proving that our shared humanity is more powerful than perfection.The Three Parts of Self-Compassion“The measure of a person is… Can you get back up?... and learn from those things.”A practical framework for navigating moments of doubt: 1) Acknowledge your inner critic, 2) Connect to common humanity ("You are not alone"), and 3) Choose a kind response that allows you to move forward effectivelyFrom Shame to Shared Freedom“If you spoke to other people the way that you speak to yourself, would you have friends?”Massimo challenges the core belief that self-criticism is effective, sharing how forgiving himself for a past firing was the key to unlocking his authentic leadership.The Self-Trust Anchor“When do I trust myself most?” Massimo’s golden question for leaders to journal on. Discover how anchoring into moments of self-trust, rather than social comparison, transforms your decision-making, communication, and presence.About the Guest: Massimo Backus is on a mission to help one million people believe they are worthy and enough. A facilitator, speaker, and executive leadership coach, he provides no-BS coaching for committed senior leaders and runs transformative programs for organizations serious about change. His fifteen-plus years in talent development have given him a front-row seat to the cultures of Fortune 500 companies like Cisco, Accenture, and Amazon, working with over 3,000 leaders. Massimo holds a master's in Organizational Psychology and is the author of Human First, Leader Second.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimo-backus/ Fun Facts:🎬 Award-Winning Storyteller: Beyond the boardroom, Massimo is an award-winning documentary filmmaker who loves to tell life’s great stories.📚 Academic Pedigree: He holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's in Organizational Psychology from Claremont Graduate University, with professional coaching education from The Co-Active Training Institute, grounding his transformative work in proven research.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

For a world full of different people, not everyone knows how to work with differences, resulting in more loss than you think. Just ask Nick Bourland. After being told his neurodivergent mind was a liability, Nick discovered how to turn his unique way of thinking into his ultimate advantage. In this Episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, the senior product manager shares how a late-in-life autism diagnosis became the key to unlocking a profound leadership style.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Mental Translation Engine" for Better Connection“I've learned to look at it as a strength, like you said, strength, not a weakness, because our brains think just differently. It doesn't mean that it's wrong.”A practical approach to building rapport by consciously cataloging what resonates with others, turning social nuance into a learnable skill that builds genuine trust.The Strategic Pause: Your Secret Weapon Against Overwhelm“It's okay to take a moment... that allows me the time that I need.”Why giving yourself permission not to respond immediately is a sign of strength, not hesitation, and how it leads to clearer thinking and more confident decisions.Build a Team Where People Can "Fail Upward"“They can experiment, they can try something new, and if it doesn't work out, that's okay.”How leading with intentional empathy and focusing on individual strengths creates psychological safety, unlocking your team's highest creativity and loyalty.The Mindset to Never Let Others Define Your Potential“Never let anybody else define your future.”The core belief that allowed Nick to defy dire predictions and achieve his goals, and how you can apply it to silence the critics, including the one in your own head.About the Guest: Nick Bourland is a Senior Product Manager at Balsam Brands, a leading e-commerce company known for its high-quality artificial Christmas trees and its unique, investor-free "evergreen" model. With a nearly 30-year career spanning retail, real estate, healthcare, and technology, Nick now oversees four teams driving data and AI transformation for the global business. He is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace, transforming his own late-in-life autism diagnosis from a source of struggle into a leadership superpower.Social Handles:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bourland-1aa7a548 Fun Facts:🧠 Neurospicy Superpower: Officially diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2023, Nick has reframed his neurodivergence as a strategic advantage, using his ultra-detailed and differently-wired brain to manage complex work streams and build incredibly loyal teams.🎭 Creative at Heart: Beyond the corporate world, Nick is a musician, songwriter, and composer currently creating a musical theater show based on the life of Peter the Apostle.✍️ Fantasy Novelist: He is also a sci-fi/fantasy novelist, diligently working to complete his first novel, Darkstone, by the end of the year.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

A terrifying moment of personal crisis can become the catalyst for reclaiming your sense of purpose. Many think that being courageous is an innate trait, when in reality, this is an ability born from resilience. Karla Yepez, HR Director for aerospace manufacturer Trio Manufacturing, embodies this truth. In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Karla shares how she hit rock bottom and the mindset shift that not only brought her back but solidified her mission to lead with humanity.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Power of a Pivot“I had to take a really hard look in the mirror and remind myself who I am.”Karla’s journey reveals that our deepest challenges often prepare us for our greatest callings. When fear paralyzed her, she drew strength from a lifetime of overcoming adversity, realizing, "I was not made to break."The Effect of Curiosity“I didn't just file the file, I would read.”Long before her director title, Karla’s innate curiosity and willingness to ask questions transformed a simple filing job into a launching pad for her career. Her story is a testament to how a learning mindset can turn any role into an opportunity.What Your Darkest Moment Reveals“I was deteriorating, but inside I was still functioning.”The crisis that forced Karla to confront who she was under pressure, was a leader who, despite crumbling internally, never abandoned her duty to her team.The “Human” in Human Resources“Bring back human to human resources.”Build a culture you want to be in, you must embody the principles of empathy and justice, proving that the strongest organizations are built on a foundation of genuine human connection.About the Guest: Karla Yepez is the Director of Human Resources at Trio Manufacturing, Inc., a world-class leader in precision manufacturing for the aerospace and defense sector. Beginning her career in an entry-level filing job, Karla's innate drive to learn and help others propelled her into an unexpected HR role during a crisis. Karla is a passionate advocate for building cultures where people feel valued, protected, and connected to a purpose larger than themselves.Fun Facts:🚀Mission-Driven Pride: She feels a deep, personal connection to her work, knowing that the components her company produces are essential to U.S. national defense. This isn't just a job; it's a contribution to the freedoms she cherishes.🫘Chipotle to Boardroom: Before leading HR, Karla applied the customer service principles she learned at Chipotle to her early office jobs, proving that foundational skills translate everywhere.🎓Driven by Mentorship: She attributes much of her success to the mentors who saw her potential, from the VP who noticed her curiosity while filing to the founders of Trio, who provided security and guidance.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

As an HR manager, Marvin Lampa knows firsthand that he needs to be a supportive resource for his employees. He also knows how difficult that can be. As a leader, he transformed from his own harshest critic to finding his confident voice. In this episode of the Speak in Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Marvin discusses how self-doubt and his inner struggle with public speaking held him back and the simple yet powerful tools that helped him rebuild his communication skills. Learn how to breathe through the nerves and speak your truth.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Inner War of SpeakingHow the anxiety of public speaking is often an internal battle, where leaders psych themselves out with worst-case scenarios and harsh self-criticism, even when their audience perceives them as perfectly confident.The Power of a Single Breath“Breathe out the nerves.” Marvin discovered that the simple, often-overlooked act of taking a deliberate breath is a foundational tool to calm the racing nerves that hijack clarity and confidence before any speaking event.The "That's Okay" Mindset“You need to hear it, even if it's from yourself.” Marvin highlights the transformative tapping technique that culminates in a powerful self-affirmation: giving yourself permission to mess up. This release of pressure leads to a more relaxed, authentic, and ultimately more effective delivery.Confidence as a Service Tool“As long as I affect one person positively, I did my job.”For Marvin, this newfound confidence isn't for applause; it's a critical tool for service. He shares how speaking with authority allows him to better serve employees, ensuring they trust his guidance on important matters like FMLA and feel supported and secure.About the Guest: Marvin Lampa is an HR manager and compliance specialist with extensive expertise in employee leave administration, ADA/FMLA/CFRA policies, and workplace investigations. He skillfully translates complex regulations into clear, actionable strategies.Social Handles:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/marvinlampa  Fun Facts:🥊 Martial Arts Mindset: Marvin has been training in Muay Thai since 2009 and applies the discipline and precision required in the ring to his strategic HR work.🥒 Pickleball Convert: He was adamantly against pickleball until a fateful game turned into a paddle purchase and a full-blown obsession. He’s now happily hooked.🎤 Power Ballad Aficionado: One of his favorite artists is Celine Dion. He knows all the words to "It's All Coming Back to Me Now" and isn't afraid to belt it out.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Professionalism and human necessities should not be at odds. Samantha Bolosan, founder and CEO of The POM Team, proves it. She built a fractional finance firm not by demanding burnout, but by championing a culture where being present in your family life is just as valued as closing the books. In this episode of The Speak in Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Samantha dismantles the myth of the rigid, always-on workplace and shares the operational blueprint that lets her team and business thrive on their own terms.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Peace of Mind" Business Model“I really wanted to build a business that would provide an ecosystem in which all aspects of my life could thrive.”How Samantha’s personal need for integration as a new mom became a market-defining company mission that attracts top talent and loyal clients.To Systemize for the "Human Variable"“I have to have team members that are highly trained and flexible to jump in and jump out where I need them to.”A people-centric business is inherently unpredictable. Samantha reveals her strategic approach to mitigating this risk, not by restricting flexibility, but by building intelligent redundancies.How Written Values Transform Hiring and CultureFor the POM Team, the shift from a vague ethos to a codified set of core values was a game-changer. Writing down their values established clear benchmarks for every hiring decision and team interaction.Be Kind, Not Nice“I like to be kind, but I'm not gonna always be nice. And to me, that means really caring about the person's ultimate outcome.”True authenticity in leadership requires the courage to prioritize long-term growth over short-term likability. Samantha discusses her philosophy that the kindest thing you can do for your team is to be honest and direct.About the Guest: Samantha Bolosan is a fractional finance expert who has redefined what it means to build a high-performance, human-centric company. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, she has been a key financial architect for VC-backed ventures, guiding them from infancy through hyper-growth across tech, multi-channel retail, and agency services. A trusted operator from the outset, Samantha was a founding team member for major brands including LowerMyBills.com, Myspace Labs, and Sole Society.Social Handles:Website: https://www.thepomteam.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pomteam LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthabolosan/ Fun Facts:🐱 Proud Cat Mom: She is utterly devoted to her cat, Bella, who answers to a myriad of nicknames, including Belly Bean and Hells Bells when she's misbehaving.🍚Culinary Adventurer: Samantha believes life is too short for bad food and bad company. She actively surrounds herself with people who make her laugh and is always on the hunt for a new culinary experience.📺Master of Balance: She has perfected the art of the push-and-pull, equally passionate about an intense workout and the pure joy of a lazy day in bed binge-watching a great show.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Raul Franco, a training manager in the security industry, has unlocked the secret to leadership. Learn how to replace filler words with a powerful presence from a leader who transforms shaky speakers into confident communicators. In this insightful episode of the Speak in Flow podcast, Melinda Lee sits down with Raul to pull back the curtain on his 21-year journey. Raul reveals how anxiety almost derailed his training career and the powerful, simple shifts that empowered him and his team to find their authentic voice.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Imposter to Influencer Journey“Don’t give up. Never stop learning.”How a 19-year-old security guard, inspired by true crime detectives and charismatic speakers from The Rock to Wayne Dyer, channeled their confidence to build his own. Raul’s story proves you don’t need a title to be a leader, just a willingness to learn from the best.The "Happy Place" Reset“I pretend that I'm back in the training room... that helped me.”Before a high-pressure talk, Raul mentally transports himself to a familiar, comfortable environment. This simple visualization technique grounds his nerves and allows his natural expertise to shine through, transforming anxiety into authoritative calm.The Filler Word Fix“You use filler words when you are in doubt... then you pause.”Raul and Melinda dismantle the myth that filler words are solved by more practice. Instead, they identify the root cause: self-doubt. The powerful solution isn’t a new word, but a purposeful pause that conveys confidence and control.The Eye Contact BreakthroughHow a reluctant public speaker learned the transformative power of direct connection. By moving beyond scanning the room to making intentional, point-by-point eye contact, you can create a sense of belonging and command attention, even with disengaged listeners.About the Guest: Raul Franco is a security industry veteran who transforms essential safety protocols into engaging and empowering learning experiences. With over two decades on the front lines, he has evolved from a 19-year-old security guard into a dedicated Training Manager, shaping the next generation of professionals. Raul specializes in high-stakes instruction, from active shooter preparedness and high-rise fire safety to life-saving CPR techniques, ensuring teams are not only compliant but also confident and ready to protect people and property.Fun Facts:🏈 Multipotentialite Athlete: Before his security career, Raul trained with dreams of going pro, both on the football field and in the wrestling ring.🎸 Garage Band Rocker: He traded riffs on the guitar in a high school rock band, swapping dreams of stadium tours for the crucial work of public safety.🐾 Passionate Advocate: A dedicated supporter of both women's rights and animal welfare.🏞️ Outdoor Enthusiast: When he's not training teams, he can be found hiking trails and appreciating classic cars, all while still cheering on his favorite football and wrestling stars.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Eileen Wixted, a strategic communications expert with three decades of experience, went from advising Fortune 500 CEOs to uncovering a universal blind spot that derails even the most seasoned leaders, why slowing down to understand your audience is the fastest way to accelerate your message's impact. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast with Melinda Lee, Eileen shares the watershed moment that exposed the critical gap between a leader's intent and their audience's reality, and the powerful mindset shifts that transform communication from a monologue into a connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Audience-Centric Blueprint"If you don't think about your audience first, everything else has the potential to go into the ditch, and then everything else doesn't matter."Eileen’s simple framework to avoid disastrous miscommunication: divide your audience, diagnose what’s on their mind, and discern how they feel before you craft your message.The Empathy Edge"You have to seek to understand before being understood."Why the 18-inch journey from the head to the heart is a leader’s most critical path, and how acknowledging your team’s emotional state, even if it’s “of their own making”, builds trust and unlocks performance.The Three-Answer MethodHow to handle any tough question with integrity and confidence by knowing the only three possible responses: “I know and will share,” “I know and cannot share (and here’s why),” or “I don’t know (and here’s how I’ll find out).”Sequence Your Communication Strategically"The real competitive edge is your ability to communicate effectively"A leader’s first words must calm the storm, not fuel it. The hospital merger story illustrates a critical rule: address core emotional fears (like job security) before presenting strategic facts (like growth opportunities).Connect with Eileen WixtedLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-wixted-97b4796/ Website: https://www.thinkwixted.com/ About the Guest: Eileen Wixted is a strategic communications veteran who transforms high-stakes moments into opportunities for trust and connection. With a career spanning three decades, she has become the secret weapon for Fortune 500 companies, navigating their most critical challenges. An Emmy Award-winning former broadcast journalist, Eileen now leverages her insider knowledge to prepare executives for everything from hostile media interviews and government investigations to major organizational change.Fun Facts:🎤 Emmy-Winning Roots: Before shaping the messages of top executives, Eileen was an award-winning journalist.🏆 Award-Winning Leader: Her expertise and leadership were recognized when she was named the Des Moines Business Record’s Woman Business Owner of the Year.🕺 Disco Champion: She possesses undisputed bragging rights as a past winner of Big Daddy’s disco contest in Fort Lauderdale.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Kris Miller, a legacy wealth strategist with over 35 years of experience, has helped over 6,000 clients but refuses to gamble their money in the stock market. In this profound conversation with Melinda Lee, Kris reveals the "safe money" strategies of the top 1%, shares the devastating family health crises that showed her the true cost of being unprepared, and explains why a million dollars is no longer enough to self-insure against catastrophe.Learn how to build a tax-free income stream you can never outlive.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Three-Pillar Safety NetKris reveals the three non-negotiable elements everyone must have: 1) Income you can never outlive, 2) The right legal documents (a living trust), and 3) Protection from catastrophic illness. “A million dollars is not a lot of money.”The “At-Home” Care Strategy“You hire your kids, or your friends, or your family to take care of you.”Why nursing homes are a last resort and how to use specific financial vehicles to fund care in your own home, preserving your dignity and your family’s legacy.The Retirement Planning HolidayKris shares a simple, actionable tip from a top financial officer: block out small, consistent chunks of time to focus on your financial fitness, even if it’s just an hour on Sunday.A Practice of GratitudeKris leaves listeners with the daily practice that grounds her, listing five things she’s grateful for every morning and night. This shift in mindset is the foundation for a healthy relationship with money and life.Talking to Your Current Financial Advisor”You go to school, you learn how to make money, you get out of school, and what do you do? You go make money and give it to some guy that gambles it!”Why most traditional planners are incentivized to keep your money at risk, and the empowering questions to ask them about fees, risk exposure, and "safe money" alternatives to balance your portfolio.Connect with Kris MillerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krismiller-legacywealth/ Website: https://healthymoneyhappylife.com/ About the Guest: Kris Miller, "The Money Maestro," is a Legacy Wealth Strategist on a mission to share the financial secrets of the 1% with the 99%. With over 35 years of experience, she has guided more than 6,000 families in building unshakable financial safety nets and creating tax-free income streams they can never outlive. A fierce advocate for "safe money" strategies, Kris boasts a flawless track record: not a single client has lost a dime under her watch. Fun Facts:🎤Double Threat: She's not just a financial maestro; she's also a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter whose music has played on national radio. 🏆Community Champion: Her impactful work led to a Woman of the Year nomination from the Hemet Chamber of Commerce.📖She is the author of the #1 bestselling book, "Ready for PREtirement"About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this wisdom-filled episode of the Speak in Flow podcast, Melinda Lee sits down with Becca Gordon, VP of Sales and Marketing at Shadowbox, to explore how emotional intelligence and authenticity are revolutionizing leadership in startups. With over 25 years of experience in executive, advisor, founder, and investor roles, Becca shares tangible strategies to build courageous, connected, and high-performing sales teams, without sacrificing humanity. From hiring practices to everyday team coaching, her message is clear: empathy isn’t a weakness. It’s a leadership superpower.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Empathy is a Leadership Superpower“You can be warm, personal, and still professional.”Becca challenges outdated corporate norms, showing how empathy isn’t softness; it’s strategic. Leading with emotional intelligence builds deeper trust, more buy-in, and lasting performance.Why Authenticity Wins in SalesForget cold pitches. Becca reveals how genuine curiosity, personal connection, and energy (even through Zoom) cut through digital noise and forge real relationships with prospects.Hire for EQ, Not Just IQBecca’s hiring mantra is simple: “No a-holes.” She explains why choosing team members based on coachability and emotional maturity lays the groundwork for trust, psychological safety, and innovation.Training Through Modeling“People learn more from what you do than what you say.”Becca leads by example, shadowing calls, running low-stakes practice sessions, and normalizing vulnerability within her team culture.Feelings Are Feedback, Not Flaws“You are allowed to have feelings. Feel them. Don’t ruminate in them. Don’t shove them down. Just feel them.”Becca’s golden takeaway: emotional presence is the key to resilience. Suppression leads to burnout; acknowledgement leads to connection and clarity.Connect with Becca GordonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becca-gordon/About the Guest: Becca Gordon is the VP of Sales and Marketing at Shadowbox, a healthcare startup innovating at the intersection of technology and human connection. With over two decades of leadership experience across executive, advisory, founder, and investor roles, she has a deep commitment to building high-impact teams through empathy, emotional intelligence, and authenticity. Becca previously co-founded and exited a women’s health company, and continues to advise and invest in startups shaping the future of care.Fun Facts:🧒 Becca has two very lively boys = zero chill at home🏕️ She’s a nature lover who believes in fresh air as a leadership reset💼 She advocates for 25-minute meetings, and 5-minute breathwork breaks💬 Becca is known for turning workplace EQ into a competitive advantageAbout Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this conversation with Melinda Lee, structural engineer and author Wayne Kalayjian reveals how he transformed the untold story of Michelangelo’s collapsing dome,  a crisis that birthed modern engineering,  into a compelling narrative. He reveals how he translated 18th-century Italian archives and complex physics into a gripping narrative and explains why clarity, concision, and audience-centric communication are at the heart of good writing.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The "Spaghetti Method" of Storytelling"You can’t serve a tangled bowl of pasta, straighten one strand at a time."Wayne’s approach to untangling concurrent events: isolate threads, introduce them logically, and rebuild the big picture.Writing for Humans (Not Just Engineers)"If your readers don’t read it, writing a book is meaningless."Wayne’s mantra: Simplify without "dumbing down." Use analogies (like domes as living organisms) to make technical concepts visceral.The Counterintuitive Power of ConstraintsWhy Wayne embraced the "hardest story to tell" and how constraints (like 18th-century Italian translations) forged sharper communication skills.Audience Connection Without Crossing Boundaries"'Research their world thoroughly, but never presume intimacy - true connection comes from respect, not forced familiarity."Learn how to deeply understand your audience's needs and knowledge level while maintaining professional rapport.Connect with Wayne KalayjianLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whkalayjian/ About the Guest: Wayne Kalayjian, PE, SE, CFE, is a world-renowned structural engineer and storyteller who bridges Michelangelo’s genius with modern engineering in his book Saving Michelangelo’s Dome. As an expert, he’s designed bridges, tunnels, and even rescued Cape Cod’s historic Highland Lighthouse from collapse, but his real passion is transforming technical chaos into compelling narratives for leaders and everyday readers.Fun Facts:✍️ Serial Author: Currently brewing his second book (because one dome-saving saga wasn’t enough).📜 Renaissance Mind: Holds a dual degree in art history + engineering.🌉 Reluctant Hero: Once moved a 4,000-ton lighthouse to safety like it was a chess piece.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast, Melinda Lee interviews Abdalmohsen Elmalk, a product performance manager at ASML with a Ph.D. in physics. Elmalk shows us how he transformed obstacles into leadership wisdom. Growing up in Sudan, where resources were scarce and opportunities were limited, he refused to let language barriers, financial constraints, or self-doubt prevent him from pursuing a world-class education. His story reveals the profound truth that real leadership is based on the power of human connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Power of BeliefElmalk's journey began with a simple but powerful conviction: "My belief was stronger than my doubts." Growing up in Sudan with limited resources, he faced seemingly insurmountable barriers. Yet his unwavering determination to pursue quality education became the driving force that propelled him across continents.The Role of Human Connection"Surround yourself with people who support your vision."While personal drive is essential, transformative growth often happens through human connections. Behind every "self-made" success are the people who opened doors at critical moments. For Elmalk, that person was a Dutch professor who became his unexpected bridge to opportunities abroad.Adaptability as a Leadership SkillEach new environment - from Dutch labs to Silicon Valley boardrooms - required him to "fit the mood" while maintaining his core values.For leaders navigating today's globalized workplaces, Elmalk's journey offers a masterclass in turning culture shock into a leadership superpower, where every adaptation strengthens your ability to connect across boundaries.The Missing Link in Hybrid TeamsIn our era of remote work and global teams, Elmalk identifies emotional disconnect as the silent productivity killer. His solution is deceptively simple yet profound: "Add humanity to communication."Connect with Abdalmohsen ElmalkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elmalk/ About the Guest: Abdalmohsen Elmalk is a semiconductor innovator and cross-cultural leader who bridges physics expertise with human-centered leadership at ASML, the tech giant powering Silicon Valley’s chip revolution. As Manager of the E-beam Application Products team, he transforms complex tech into real-world solutions while mentoring global teams.Fun Facts:🔬 Microscope Whisperer: Earned his PhD studying single molecules (because why think small when you can think atomic?).💡 First-Principles Leader: Approaches management like physics, observing, adapting, and creating the right conditions for teams to shine.🧠 Polyglot Brain: Fluent in 3 languages, 4 scientific disciplines, and the universal language of authentic connection.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Kaylee Keil, HR professional, leadership coach, and board member, joins Melinda Lee in this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast to unpack why communication is the most critical and often overlooked skill for leaders. From her experience curating HR events at The Nimble Group, Kaylee reveals how failing to "own" communication drives turnover, while intentional leadership fuels psychological safety and profitability.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Crisis PointWhy 70% of employees leave jobs due to poor leadership, and how companies that prioritize communication training see 150x higher profitability.The Power of Proactive Connection“If you see something, say something.”Kaylee's golden rule for leaders to prevent miscommunication and build trust is to ask simple questions that transform teams. Questions like “How do you prefer to receive support?” and “What do you value in a leader?” can avert crises before they begin.The Micro-Moments That Matter“The future of work is human, and it starts with leaders who communicate with courage, clarity, and care.”Leadership isn’t about grand gestures but daily acts of ownership: recognition, check-ins, and vulnerability. Every situation, even a tough conversation, can be reframed as an opportunity for connection.How to Support Your Employees“Find where you can get that support from… If you feel like you can’t find support in any avenue, you’re probably not in the right place.”Name your challenge openly (“I have a challenge I need help with”), seek allies, and leverage internal resources, but recognize when a culture won’t change.Connect with Kaylee KeilLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleekeil17/ Website: https://nimblegroup.co/ About the Guest: Kaylee Keil is an HR innovator and leadership catalyst who has spent years turning workplaces into people-first ecosystems. As the Attendee Engagement Specialist and Partnerships Coordinator for Nimble Group, she architects events that transform careers.Fun Facts:🔮 First-Day Fire Drill: Once led a new hire orientation… on her own first day at a job. (Talk about baptism by fire.)🎨 Beads & Hustle: Runs K&KMaine, crafting jewelry that’s as bold and intentional as her leadership philosophy.📜 Degree-Free Disruptor: Built her career through hands-on hustle- proof that titles don’t define talent.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Anna Radulovski, CEO of WomenTech Network and author of Chief in Tech, went from navigating male-dominated tech conferences to creating the world’s largest platform for women in technology. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with host Melinda Lee, Anna reveals how resilience, generosity, and imperfect action can dismantle barriers and why true leadership isn’t about being the smartest in the room, but making space for others to rise with you..In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Hidden Cost of PerfectionismHow imposter syndrome thrives in workplaces not designed for women, and why “waiting until you’re ready” is a myth.Resilience as a Non-Negotiable“It’s not about being the smartest in the room, it’s about making space for others to rise with you.”Lessons from top female tech leaders: Every one of them faced bias, setbacks, or rejection, but viewed challenges as growth opportunities.Fixing Diversity Starts Day One“When you lift even one voice, you start a ripple that can change everything.”Why startups must build inclusive cultures from the beginning, not as an afterthought.How collaboration among women’s networks creates systemic change.The Networking Mindset Shift“Be truly interested, not just interesting. Awkward interactions are part of the journey.”“How can I help this person?” vs. “What can I get?” Why generosity unlocks authentic connections… And why women don’t need to “get it right” the first time.Mentorship is Good. Sponsorship is Game-Changing.While mentorship provides guidance, sponsorship is what propels careers forward. Many women undervalue the importance of cultivating sponsors who can champion them for promotions and leadership roles.Connect with Anna RadulovskiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaradulovski/X: https://x.com/annaradulovskiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna.radulovski.official/📖Grab Anna’s book, Chief in TechAbout the Guest: Anna Radulovski is the visionary founder of WomenTech Network, a global powerhouse with 150,000+ members across 179 countries, and the architect behind transformative initiatives like Coding Girls and Executive Women in Tech (EWIT). But don’t let her accolades fool you (though they’re impressive: Rising Star for the Global Award of Achievement, 50 Women in ESG honoree). At heart, she’s a community builder.Fun Facts:🌆 Times Square Takeover: Her book recently lit up the NYC skyline, because if you’re going to champion women in tech, why not do it in neon?📚 From Interviews to Impact: Authored Chief in Tech after interviewing 50+ senior female tech leaders.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

You can’t persuade people when you’re stuck in your own head.Stephen Mar knows what it’s like to lose an audience. As Chief Legal & Administrative Officer at Odeko. But his biggest communication breakthrough didn’t happen in a courtroom. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, Stephen reveals how an early-career email taught him to master persuasion and cross-departmental buy-in.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The 3-Bucket Filter for Effective CommunicationStephen’s framework for sharing information:Need to know (Essential for their role)Nice to know (Builds connection, but isn’t critical)Harmful to know (Creates distraction or anxiety)Pre-Meeting Persuasion Tactics"Read the room before you’re in the room." Stephen’s team preps by identifying allies and skeptics, then tailoring arguments to each stakeholder’s "language" (e.g., finance cares about risk, HR cares about culture).The Authenticity Advantage"If it’s not authentically you, you’ll slip." How Stephen’s debate-team roots taught him to adapt his style, without sacrificing his core identity, to persuade executives and coffee-shop owners alike.Lead with Your ConclusionEarly in his career, Stephen learned the hard way that over-explaining undermines persuasion.  Now, he structures all communication by front-loading the key takeaway, then adding context only if needed. "Ask yourself: Does this detail help my audience make a decision, or just make me feel thorough?"Connect with Stephen MarLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmar/ Twitter/X and Instagram:  @stephenmarAbout the Guest: As Chief Legal and Administrative Officer at Odeko, Stephen Mar (Legal strategist) is the operational backbone for thousands of coffee shops and cafés, overseeing everything from high-stakes corporate governance to the human side of HR. But don’t let the title fool you, this former WeWork turnaround architect and Sullivan & Cromwell litigator is equally comfortable dissecting merger paperwork as he is explaining employment law to baristas. Fun Facts:🎤 From Debate Champ to Boardroom Whisperer: His competitive debate trophies are proof of his persuasion skills.🐕 Zen Master: Stephen loves hiking, traveling, playing instruments, and spending time with his dog, Zumi.☕ Caffeine Connoisseur: Professionally supports coffee shops; personally tests their products with the rigor of a sommelier (paired with occasional cocktail chasers).About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Kevin D. Oden, CEO of Kevin D. Oden & Associates and former head of operational risk at Wells Fargo, knows the high-stakes world of financial compliance isn’t for the faint of heart. In this episode of the Speak In Flow podcast with Melinda Lee, he reveals how to spot hollow expertise, why "big name" consultants often fail smaller institutions, and the uncomfortable truths leaders must confront to protect their organizations.Learn why honesty, not optics, is the ultimate risk management strategy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Consultant Trap"If your consultant hasn’t carried the burden of compliance themselves, they can’t guide you through it."How "big name" firms lure clients with senior partners, then delegate critical work to junior teams lacking real-world regulatory experience.The Toughest ConversationWhy Kevin insists on documenting every regulatory gap... even when clients beg him to omit them."I keep a copy of every recommendation. If regulators audit my work, I won’t be the reason a client fails."Leading by Example (Even on Bad Days)How a toxic former boss taught Kevin the cost of poor leadership: "He berated teams daily and was fired within a year."🌟Golden rule: "There should be no surprises at work. Communicate openly, even when it’s hard."The Local Reality of Global RulesWhy regulations are universal, but enforcement is hyper-local, and how to prepare for examiner biases."Assume every examiner will interpret rules differently. Over-prepare, but don’t overcorrect."Connect with Kevin D. OdenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-oden-3b8a39a/ Website: kdoa.com About the Guest: Kevin D. Oden is a rare hybrid of mathematician, risk whisperer, and hands-on regulator, a leader who’s as comfortable dissecting complex models as he is navigating boardroom battles. As CEO of Kevin D. Oden & Associates, he helps financial institutions untangle high-stakes compliance crises, drawing on decades of experience as Wells Fargo’s Head of Operational Risk and Compliance and architect of their model risk management framework.Fun Facts:🎾 From Courts to Calculus: Swapped tennis tournaments for differential equations, but still brings a competitor’s edge to risk management.🚀 Rocket Scientist Turned Regulator: Proves analytical rigor applies equally to astrophysics and audit trails.📚 Professor at Heart: Taught math at Harvard, now “educates” clients on regulatory loopholes with far higher stakes.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Festivals bring joy, foster connection, and create transformative spaces, and James Weisberg learned from a young age how to harness their power to build a visionary future.As the founder of Project Vitality and co-founder of Cresci Labs, James blends entertainment, education, and community impact through festivals, startup ecosystems, and a mindset he calls “Level 12” where success defies imagination. In this energizing conversation with Melinda Lee, he shares how trust, love, and bold action unlock opportunities beyond expectation.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Level 12 Mindset“Beyond imagination, beyond explanation, beyond expectation.”James’s core philosophy: Trust that life’s outcomes will surpass your plans. Whether in business (like his surprise partnership with Alley Times) or personal growth, he leans into divine timing and unseen forces.Festivals as Change-Making PlatformsFrom his family’s Rock the Bells hip-hop festivals to Project Vitality, James designs events that entertain, educate, and elevate, blending music, job fairs, wellness workshops (breathwork, legal advice), and environmental activism. “We’re the aspirin for people’s headaches.”Networking with “No Agenda”Why James prioritizes authentic relationships over transactions, and how a random festival connection landed him a Fortune 500 client years later.Alchemizing Struggle“This too shall pass, good and bad.” James reflects on Jim Carrey’s advice and turning anger into action.Natural Healing: Rejecting pharmaceutical numbing for breathwork, meditation, and holistic remedies.Connect with James WeisbergLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-weisberg-49388b142/ About the Guest: James Weisberg is a serial entrepreneur and dealmaker who bridges the worlds of data-driven growth and high-stakes commodities trading. As founder of Cresci Labs, he helps businesses scale through hyper-targeted B2B lead funnels and revenue-optimized marketing systems. His other playground? Structuring multimillion-dollar deals in fuel, gold, lithium, carbon credits, and even private equity stakes in sports teams, all while navigating global trade regulations and tax-efficient asset structures.Beyond the boardroom, James grew up backstage at festivals, booking artists for his father’s iconic Rock the Bells hip-hop events and later launching his own nonprofit, Project Vitality, to merge music with education and job fairs.Fun Facts:🎤 Festival Kid Turned Founder: From handing out flyers as a teen to producing his own events, James believes festivals are the ultimate community alchemy.⚽ Triple-Threat Athlete: Played soccer, football, and baseball; now channels that competitive edge into deep-sea fishing and globetrotting.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Jaime Lee, USC trustee, real estate CEO, and keynote speaker to thousands, once hyperventilated into a paper bag before speeches. In this vulnerable conversation with Melinda Lee, she reveals how she rewired her mindset from "I can’t say the alphabet if called on" to commanding boardrooms and commencement stages. Discover her counterintuitive secret: preparedness isn’t about perfection, it’s about pivoting.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The “Rubber Band” MomentHow immigrant roots and a "keep your head down" upbringing fueled Jaime’s terror of speaking, and the visceral physical reactions she had to conquer (shaking hands, a burning neck, and a mind going blank).The Volunteer CureWhy saying "yes" to unpaid speaking gigs (even while shaking) became her secret weapon: "It doesn’t get easier until you do it. But every time you do, it gets easier."The game-changer: Speaking about scholarships for deserving students gave her a "mission over fear" mindset.When Plans Go SidewaysJaime’s "decision tree" method for high-stakes negotiations, and why she backtracks to the human element when things derail."People surprise you. If you’re only prepared for ‘perfect,’ you’ll crumble."Gen Z, Nuance, and the Art of DisagreeingWhy social media trains us to avoid hard conversations, and how to "dance" with differing opinions without sacrificing conviction."You can’t change systems by throwing rocks from the outside. Get in the room, then speak truth with gravitas."Connect with Jaime L. LeeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jleela/ About the Guest: Jaime Lee is the CEO of the Jamison group of companies, a powerhouse real estate enterprise that owns and operates over 18 million square feet of commercial, multifamily, retail, and medical properties across Southern California, with a $3.2 billion net asset value. Her expertise has earned her 100+ speaking engagements for organizations like ULI, JP Morgan, and UCLA, covering real estate, global supply chains, and leadership.Fun Facts:🏊 Triathlon Newbie: After completing her first triathlon in 2023, she’s training for another, proving that growth happens outside comfort zones.🧬 Longevity Geek: Fascinated by the science of aging, she’s as curious about life extension as she is about real estate development.👧 Big Sister Energy: The eldest (and only daughter) of four siblings, she’s been leading since day one.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

When you start a business, it’s easy to obsess over your product- perfecting the tech, the features, the "how." But what happens when you realize no one cares how it works… unless you can make them believe in why it matters?In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, Melinda Lee interviews Rohin Parkar, the CEO of Spintly, who has experienced this type of pivot firsthand. As an engineer, Parkar built cutting-edge access control technology. However, he hit a wall when investors shrugged and employees misunderstood his vision.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Engineer’s Blind Spot"The product was everything… until it wasn’t."Rohin’s early belief that technology would sell itself crumbled when investors rejected his jargon-heavy pitches.Pivoting from Technical to Transformational"You have to tell a story, not just specs." How mentors pushed Rohin to simplify his message and focus on the problem his tech solves.➡ ️The mindset shift: From "Am I good enough?" to "I belong here," especially as an Asian founder in a competitive space.Scaling Vision (and Communication) with Growth"Money comes as a result of how you build the company. Empathy isn’t optional."Seed round vs. Series B: Why a $50M pitch demands a "disrupt the world" narrative, and how to authentically believe it first.Work-Life Harmony (Not Balance)Instead of chasing the myth of "balance," the Parkars’ built harmony, lunch together between meetings, late-night work sessions after family dinners, and piano lessons scheduled alongside investor calls.Connect with Rohin ParkarLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohin-parkar/ About the Guest: Rohin Parkar is the Co-founder and CEO of Spintly, a smart building tech company transforming access control through wireless mesh networks and edge AI. With 20+ years in engineering and leadership, he’s built Spintly into a global innovator, backed by Accel Partners and partnered with Apple to support access badges in Apple Wallet. Rohin is passionate about decentralized systems, edge intelligence, and building deep-tech products from India that power smarter, more responsive buildings.Fun Facts:🧠 Edge Enthusiast: Rohin’s fascination with edge computing began with weekend IoT experiments in his garage.🥾 Learning on the Trail: He often turns hikes with his son into mini deep-dives on tech, science, and innovation.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do.Closing a deal has its tricks, but when you take the game overseas, you’ll quickly learn every culture has its own rules.On this episode of Speak in Flow, global consultant Jonathan Holburt joins Melinda Lee to unpack how you win buy-in across borders. From breakfast meetings in Korea (with zero business talk) to launching a Guinness campaign that starred a "Nigerian James Bond," Jonathan shares lessons from 27 years of working across 20+ countries.You’ll learn why listening is your most underrated tool, and how candor, competence, and concern create instant credibility, even over Zoom.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The 5-Step Buy-In BlueprintPersuasion starts with decoding the room:Who really decides? Who influences quietly behind the scenes?What are they assuming you know?What’s unspoken, but crucial?Should you adopt, adapt, or invent your strategy entirely?Jonathan’s framework helps you prep smarter, so your message lands.The 3 C’s of TrustTrust may be universal, but the way you build it must be intentional. Jonathan breaks down what he calls the “3 C’s of Trust”: candor, competence, and concern. When all three are present, trust accelerates.“They need to know you’re invested in their stakes, not just your pitch.” Cross-Cultural Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)The Breakfast Test: Why Jonathan flew 7 h to Seoul for a social breakfast (no business talk!) to secure a Korean client’s trust."Goldman Sachs bankers got thrown out for pushing a deal in a day- Koreans value relationships over transactions.""Yes" Doesn’t Always Mean Yes: How silence in Japan or "We’ll do our best" in India often signals no.Remote Challenges: Why reading body language on Zoom is harder (and how to compensate).How to Truly ListenAt the heart of all these strategies is a simple but powerful principle: great leaders listen deeply. Jonathan encourages professionals to go beyond surface-level responses and instead tune into the deeper question behind every question."Be a good listener- people will reciprocate. Listen beyond the words: What’s the real question behind their question?"Connect with Jonathan HolburtLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-holburt-38b28a4/ About the Guest: Jonathan Holburt is a consultant at Reveal Growth, an Ohio-based firm, specializing in cross-cultural marketing and presentation skills. He spent 27 years in Asia leading campaigns for global brands like Procter & Gamble, McDonald’s, and Nokia, earning two Effie Awards along the way.  He’s a Magna Cum Laude graduate of UCLA and currently lives with his wife in Orange County, California.Fun-facts:🌍 Around the World in 140 Stamps: Jonathan has traveled to 140 countries and is about to launch a travel blog to share insights from his global adventures.📚 From Boardrooms to Big Screens: His novel Shadow Emperor was optioned by Cate Blanchett’s agent.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What does it take to show up fully in a room, build trust across partnerships, and be the kind of person people actually want to work with? On this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, Tony Zirnoon, Director of Channel and Strategic Partnerships at Actian, a true “connector” in both tech and human ecosystems. With experience bridging innovation and execution in cybersecurity, opens up about leadership, presence, and the real power of listening.Join Tony and Melinda as they explore how being coachable and staying curious can transform your entire career.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Authentic Networking > Agenda Networking"Build relationships before you need them."There’s a big difference between showing up with purpose and showing up with a pitch deck. Purposeful networking is about listening, giving, and aligning.The Role of a “Fixer” in Tech and Why It MattersWhat it means to step into failing partnerships and turn them around with integrity.Tony breaks down how he earned trust by focusing on consistency over charisma."People want to be heard. That’s where healing begins." Coachability as a SuperpowerHow Tony's willingness to receive feedback opened unexpected doors, and why humility is key when stepping into new roles. “Being coachable is everything. That’s how people want to work with you.”The Power of PresenceWhy being fully present in conversations matters more than having all the answers—and how Tony learned to read a room by listening more than speaking. “If you're not present, people can feel it.”Connect with Tony ZirnoonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zirnoon/ Website: https://hcvcorp.com/ Contact details: https://poplme.co/hash/pSAWzkTT/4/es About the Guest: Tony is the Founder of Human Capital Ventures Corp, where he has raised $7M+ for early-stage startups in cybersecurity, AI, and SaaS. A seasoned GTM strategist, he’s driven exits like Avid Secure (acquired by Sophos) and SecureCircle (acquired by CrowdStrike). With 25+ years in cybersecurity, he builds high-impact partnerships and scales startups from seed to Series A+.Fun-facts:🌍 Polyglot Maverick: Fluent in English, Spanish, Farsi, and conversational in Catalan, Italian, and Portonyol (his self-described "linguistic remix").⛷️ Slopes & Rhythms: An avid skier and dancer, equally at home carving powder or salsa floors.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

In a B2B environment, people often overlook the human side. But at the end of the day, we're all human beings running a business. In this episode of the Speak In Flow Podcast, Robin Daniels, the "Ryan Reynolds of B2B" and CMO behind 2.5 IPOs, reveals how to be emotional, authentic, and fun while telling a story that motivates your team to work like a well-oiled machine.Join Robin and Melinda to learn that fundamental human needs, to connect, to understand, and to feel inspired, lie behind every IPO, every board meeting, and every sales pitch.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The 3 Levels of ImpactRobin's signature frameworkTactical (linear results)Strategic (team-powered leaps)Epic (exponential outcomes)"If an idea doesn't make you ask 'Is this stupid?' it's probably not groundbreaking enough."Why Leaders Must Overcommunicate"In the absence of information, people invent their own stories." Robin shares hard-won lessons from IPO journeys about cutting through uncertainty, even when the news isn't perfect.The Marathon MindsetHow training for 26.2 miles taught Robin to rehearse until messaging lives "in your bones", and why he makes his teams practice in mirrors before big moments.Authenticity + Humor = Brand MagicFrom his “Ryan Reynolds of B2B” persona to his acting class days, Robin shows that mixing fun with function makes communication memorable.“People don't just want to connect with the brand, but also with the people behind the brand.”Connect with Robin DanielsLinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robingdaniels/ About the Guest: Robin Daniels is the Chief Business Zensai, a 3x CMO with over 20 years of marketing and growth leadership at Salesforce, LinkedIn, WeWork, and Matterport. A veteran of 2.5 IPOs and hyper-growth scaling, he specializes in building teams that marry operational excellence with human-centric storytelling.Fun-facts:🇩🇰 Global Roots: From Denmark to 50+ countries, Robin brings cross-cultural flair to boardrooms and marathon courses alike (he’s run 10+).🎓 Proud Dad: Currently navigating college move-in days between keynote speeches and mirror rehearsals of Jerry Maguire monologues.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Media and technology strategist Evo Heyning (CEO of Reality Craft, VP of XR Guild) sits down with Melinda Lee in this episode of the Speak in Flow Podcast to explore how AI is reshaping communication, creativity, and disaster resilience, while revealing why slowing down might be the key to wielding these tools effectively. From rebuilding homes after wildfires to crafting ethical AI policies, Evo shares how to lead with intention in a noisy digital world.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The Double-Edged Sword of AI ToolsEvo dives into the paradox of generative AI. While it can accelerate workflows, like turning smartphone scans into permit-ready architectural plans for disaster zones, it also demands fierce discernment."Can I trust the company behind this tool?" Evo urges us to ask ourselves this question before entering our data into an AI tool.The Art of "Promptcraft" "If the output looks cool but isn’t what you imagined, you’re being led by the tool, not leading it." Evo shares how her teams blend AI with human intuition, warning against losing your vision in the process.Less Input, More InsightAI’s verbosity is a trap. "Large language models give you tons of information, very little meaning," Evo laughs. The fix? "Step back, and ask: Does this add insight, or just noise?"The Ultimate Question for CreatorsEvo leaves us with a challenge. "Generative tools invite us to give language to our vision. But first, ask: What world do I actually want to create? If you’re stuck in dystopian headlines, you’ll just recreate noise."Connect with Evo HeyningWebsite: https://evo.ist/ LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evonne/ YouTube: @RealitycraftArt Instagram: @amorationAbout the Guest: Evo Heyning is a pioneering media technologist and futurist at the forefront of AI and XR innovation. Blending generative tools and immersive experiences, Evo shapes ethical and creative futures. As the founder of Realitycraft and the VP of the XR Guild, Evo has led groundbreaking projects, championing technology that amplifies human potential rather than replacing it.Fun-facts:🌐 Virtual Diplomat: Served as the first avatar ambassador between diplomatic offices in virtual worlds (2009).🎥 AI Trailblazer: Taught YouTube to integrate AI tools back in 2014 and produced the Affordable Care Act’s launch campaign.🎨 Multidisciplinary Creator: When not sculpting digital worlds, Evo bakes gluten-free treats and hunts antiques for storytelling inspiration.About Melinda:Melinda Lee is a Presentation Skills Expert, Speaking Coach, and nationally renowned Motivational Speaker. She holds an M.A. in Organizational Psychology, is an Insights Practitioner, and is a Certified Professional in Talent Development as well as Certified in Conflict Resolution. For over a decade, Melinda has researched and studied the state of “flow” and used it as a proven technique to help corporate leaders and business owners amplify their voices, access flow, and present their mission in a more powerful way to achieve results.She has been the TEDx Berkeley Speaker Coach and has worked with hundreds of executives and teams from Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Caltrans, Bay Area Rapid Transit System, and more. Currently, she lives in San Francisco, California, and is breaking the ancestral lineage of silence.Website: https://speakinflow.com/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/speakinflowInstagram: https://instagram.com/speakinflowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpowerallThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast review.Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.