Leveraging Thought Leadership podcast

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Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Welcome to the Leveraging Thought Leadership podcast, a beacon illuminating the paths and possibilities of thought leadership. With your guides, Peter Winick and Bill Sherman, we will embark on a journey into a captivating world where ideas converge with strategy and insight. Where will thought leadership take you? In each episode, we engage with thought leaders from diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s professional keynote speaking, writing your own thought leadership book, investigating the niche expertise of specialized consultants, or crossing mental swords with distinguished academics, our guests collectively paint a vivid mosaic of thought leadership's multifaceted potential. Through nuanced perspectives and rich experience, our talented co-hosts aim to offer you views of the ways independent thought leaders navigate success, elevate talent, and change company culture – while simultaneously examining how organizations harness the power of thought leadership to catalyze innovation and nurture sustainable growth. Peter Winick is your guide through the realm of independent thought leadership. For the past two decades, he has helped individuals and organizations build and grow revenue streams through designing and growing their thought leadership platforms as well as acting as a guide and advisor for increasing business to business sales of thought leadership products. Peter is the Founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage. His clients come from a diverse set of backgrounds and specialties. They include New York Times bestselling business book authors, members of the Speakers’ Hall of Fame, recipients of the Thinkers50 award, CEOs of public and privately held companies, and academics at prestigious institutions such as Yale, Wharton, Dartmouth, and London School of Business. With a keen eye for detail, he delves into the intricacies of crafting personal brands, fostering genuine engagement with audiences, and expertly monetizing one's expertise. From the artistry of crafting keynote speeches that resonate with audiences to the strategic deployment of bestselling books as conduits for inspiration and insight, Peter's guests offer a treasure trove of strategies for creating value and impact and driving revenue through thought leadership. Bill Sherman specializes in the exploration of organizational thought leadership. He examines how companies conceive, curate, and deploy thought leadership initiatives, and how those initiatives benefit the orgs and the people who work within them. Bill listens to the stories and advice of industry leaders and their triumphs within the competitive business landscape. Whether through the dissemination of white papers that shape industry discourse, webinars that educate and engage, or insightful executive blogs that offer thought leadership at the highest echelons of corporate governance, Bill's guests provide illuminating perspectives on the evolution of organizational thought leadership and its pivotal role in shaping industry paradigms and perceptions. Bill concentrates on organizational consulting and business expertise, investigating organizational thought leadership and its effects, from instructional design and learning product development to marketing strategy and execution, to organizational development and transformational consulting. He enjoys working with business leaders, speakers, authors, academics, and other consultants, connecting their ideas organizational platforms and enterprise-ready product development. As the series unfolds, Peter and Bill will lead us through a nuanced exploration of the latest trends and advancements in thought leadership. From the transformative impact of technology on communication and collaboration to the evolving preferences of consumers in an increasingly digital marketplace, they will dissect the shifting landscape with precision and insight. Moreover, they will shine a spotlight on emerging modalities that are reshaping the contours of thought leadership, from the ascendance of virtual events as a cornerstone of engagement to the growing influence of social media platforms as conduits for thought dissemination and audience interaction. Through their discerning analysis, they will reveal how thought leaders can adeptly harness these trends to amplify their reach, captivate new audiences, and maximize their influence in an ever-evolving business environment. Whether you find yourself at the height of your career as a seasoned thought leader, or whether you stand at the threshold of possibility as an aspiring entrepreneur, the Leveraging Thought Leadership podcast offers an enriching voyage of discovery. Join us as we unravel the enigmatic secrets to success in the vibrant realm of thought leadership, where ideas have the power to shape perceptions, drive change, and inspire action. Together, let us explore how you, too, can engineer value, evoke impact, and cultivate revenue through the sheer power of your ideas and expertise. Welcome aboard.

640 episodes

Leveraging Thought Leadership

updated 4 days ago

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640 episodes

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Leveraging Thought Leadership

1
Accidental Thought Leadership: When a Minor Point Becomes a Major Movement | Ellen Joan Ford | 641 26:46

4 days ago26:46

26:46

What happens when leadership, military service, and motherhood collide with a mission for change? Dr. Ellen Joan Ford didn’t set out to become a thought leader—she became one by accident, driven by action. A former army officer, academic, and founder of Belonging, Autonomy and Purpose Leadership, Ellen first spoke about the challenges of working parents as a small part of a leadership talk. But that minor moment struck a nerve—and sparked a tidal wave. Strangers reached out. Stories poured in. And suddenly, Ellen was leading a movement. That movement became #WorkSchoolHours , a principles-based approach to workplace redesign. Through a TEDx talk , a book , and ongoing advocacy, Ellen challenges leaders to reconsider the structure of work—not just for productivity, but for humanity. Her research began informally, collecting real stories from overwhelmed parents, but it soon evolved into a mission grounded in compassion and backed by data. Ellen’s leadership philosophy is shaped by three defining moments: serving in the military, becoming a parent, and helping evacuate Afghans to safety. Each began with getting "pissed off" enough to act—and that same passion drives her thought leadership today. But she’s not just collecting stories anymore. She’s implementing solutions. In this episode, we explore how passion becomes platform, how impact is scaled through persistence, and how thought leadership can evolve from lived experience. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a personal challenge into systemic change, this conversation will show you what’s possible. Three Key Takeaways: • Big impact often starts small. Ellen didn’t set out to lead a movement—she simply mentioned the challenges of working parents in a leadership talk. That small moment resonated deeply, leading to thousands of unsolicited stories and the creation of the #WorkSchoolHours platform. • Thought leadership is fueled by personal experience and action. Ellen’s credibility and influence stem from her lived experiences: leading in the military, becoming a parent, and coordinating a massive humanitarian effort. Her thought leadership emerged not from theory alone, but from taking action when she saw problems that needed solving. • Change begins when someone gets “pissed off enough to act.” Whether improving military leadership, reshaping workplace norms, or saving lives, Ellen demonstrates that passion, combined with persistence and a clear purpose, can spark real-world impact—even on systems as entrenched as the modern workplace. If this conversation sparked your interest in how empathy and personal experience can fuel workplace transformation, don’t miss our earlier episode with Scott Shute , former Head of Mindfulness and Compassion Programs at LinkedIn. Like Ellen Joan Ford, Scott turned personal conviction into a platform for change—advocating for compassion as a strategic business imperative. Together, these episodes offer a powerful look at how thought leadership can humanize work and reshape what leadership looks like in today’s world.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Crafting Books that Grow Your Brand and Business | Cathy Fyock | 640 17:42

11 days ago17:42

17:42

What’s the real reason you want to write a book? If your answer doesn’t connect directly to your business goals, you may be missing the mark. In this episode of Leveraging Thought Leadership, Peter sits down with Cathy Fyock , a book strategist who helps authors write the right book—the one that aligns with their business, audience, and long-term strategy. Cathy shares why writing a book should never be step one. Instead, authors must start with a solid strategy: What do you want the book to do for your business? Who exactly are you writing it for? How will you leverage it to create opportunity, revenue, or credibility? We explore the importance of aligning your book’s content and audience with your current business model. Cathy also explains why writing for “everyone” is a mistake, and why serving a clearly defined niche can lead to powerful results—even if it feels narrow. If you’ve ever wrestled with the choice between self-publishing, hybrid, or traditional publishing, Cathy breaks down the pros and cons of each. Her recommendation? Own your IP, own your margins, and stay in control. You’ll also hear surprising insights about how some authors make more from not selling books—using them as a powerful sales tool to land clients, speaking gigs, and consulting contracts. Three Key Takeaways: • Start with strategy, not writing. A successful book begins with clear goals, a defined audience, and alignment with your business model—not just a blank page and good intentions. • Niche focus drives greater impact. Writing for a well-defined, specific audience builds credibility and creates stronger results than trying to appeal to everyone. • Books are business tools, not just products. The real ROI often comes not from book sales, but from using the book to generate leads, secure speaking engagements, or land high-value clients. If you found value in the strategic insights shared in this episode, you won't want to miss our conversation with Becky Robinson : " Writing a Book As an Extension of Your Business ." Becky, the founder and CEO of Weaving Influence , delves into how authors can seamlessly integrate their books into their broader business strategies. She shares practical advice on launching a book, building a lasting platform, and ensuring your message reaches the right audience over time. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to amplify their thought leadership and make their book a cornerstone of their business growth.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Turning Industry Disruption into Thought Leadership Success | Kerim Kfuri | 639 19:42

14 days ago19:42

19:42

When the world stopped getting its stuff, why did supply chain suddenly matter? In this episode, Peter Winick speaks with Kerim Kfuri , global entrepreneur, author of " Supply Chain Ups and Downs ," and CEO of Atlas Network . Kerim reveals why he stepped into thought leadership—especially when his industry became the center of public attention overnight. Kerim discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant gaps and misunderstandings about supply chain processes. He shares insights into why investing in thought leadership provided not just visibility but also credibility, distinguishing his company from competitors who focused solely on price. Learn how Kerim leveraged his expertise to educate and inform, turning a complicated topic into accessible knowledge. He explains how thought leadership helped him open doors, win larger clients, and attract top talent. Kerim also shares practical advice for businesses aiming to use thought leadership strategically, emphasizing patience, clear metrics, and the power of investing in yourself and your business. Are you ready to turn your expertise into your greatest competitive advantage? Three Key Takeaways: • Thought leadership is a powerful differentiator. It helps smaller companies compete against larger players by showcasing unique expertise and credibility. • Education builds trust. By making complex topics like supply chain more understandable, you position yourself as a go-to authority in your field. • ROI takes time. Thought leadership isn't a quick win—it's a long-term investment that pays off through visibility, client acquisition, and talent attraction. If you found Kerim Kfuri's insights on leveraging thought leadership to elevate brand credibility and attract top clients compelling, you'll appreciate Episode 23 of the Leveraging Thought Leadership podcast, featuring Erica Dhawan . Erica, a leading authority on 21st-century collaboration and CEO of Cotential, discusses model building, content development, and business growth. She shares how she developed assessment tools with a data-driven mindset and translated that data into targeted sales strategies. Both episodes highlight the transformative power of thought leadership in distinguishing a brand and driving business success…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Breaking Through the Noise: Targeted Thought Leadership That Drives Results | Paige Velasquez Budde | 638 23:09

21 days ago23:09

23:09

Are you spending your resources wisely to amplify your thought leadership—or just making noise? In today's fast-paced marketplace, standing out from the crowd is tougher than ever. Peter Winick is joined by Paige Velasquez Budde , CEO at Zilker Media , one of Austin's fastest-growing agencies specializing in building people-driven brands. Paige shares insights from her extensive experience working with top global thought leaders and brands. Discover why your personal brand matters even more than your corporate identity. Paige explains how trust and connection are built person-to-person, especially in high-touch B2B environments. As the best-selling author of " Strategic Business Influencer: Building a Brand with a Small Budget " she emphasizes the importance of starting early—well before your next book or major event—to consistently showcase your expertise and build trust at scale. We dive into actionable strategies like narrowing your social media presence to the most impactful platform and harnessing the true value of PR through intentional, targeted micro-media placements. Plus, Peter and Paige unpack why vanity metrics won't help your business, and why an interview on the right niche podcast can sometimes be worth far more than a big-name media hit. Tune in to learn how to strategically build thought leadership that grows your revenue, enhances your credibility, and sustainably supports your long-term business objectives. Three Key Takeaways: • Start Early, Not Later: Building effective thought leadership isn’t about a one-time launch event; it's a consistent, ongoing practice. Start cultivating your brand now—well ahead of your next big milestone—to build trust, visibility, and credibility at scale. • Micro-Media Outperforms Vanity Metrics: Don’t chase big audiences for the sake of numbers. A targeted podcast or niche publication with the right listeners can deliver far greater business impact than generic exposure. • Your Personal Brand Matters Most: Clients Google people, not logos. Invest in clearly showcasing your personal expertise online to accelerate trust, strengthen relationships, and differentiate yourself from competitors. Looking to enhance your personal brand and build authentic relationships in the digital space? Our conversation with Paige Velasquez Budde emphasized the power of strategic PR and personal branding. To further explore building high-profile relationships through authenticity and trust, listen to our episode with Clemence Sop — Cultivating High-Profile Relationships in a Digital World . Together, these episodes offer valuable insights into creating a strong personal brand and fostering meaningful connections. Ready to implement these strategies? Contact Thought Leadership Leverage today to develop a personalized plan that amplifies your impact and accelerates your success.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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How Reluctant Thought Leaders Can Amplify Their Impact | Christina Wedgwood | 637 29:01

25 days ago29:01

29:01

Does thought leadership belong only to bold personalities and charismatic speakers? Christina Wedgwood doesn't think so. In her book, " Better: A More Authentic Path for the Reluctant Thought Leader" , Christina explores how deep thinkers, perfectionists, and even those uneasy about taking center stage can still powerfully shape ideas and conversations. In this conversation, Christina explains that thought leadership isn't about how loudly you speak—it's about clarity, simplicity, and authenticity. She argues that true impact comes from quiet, deliberate thinkers whose insights might otherwise go unnoticed. Christina reveals why "better" does not mean "louder," encouraging thought leaders to embrace their unique strengths rather than fitting into preconceived molds. Christina and Bill also delve into the emotional journey of creating thought leadership content. They discuss perfectionism and the common barrier of feeling "not ready yet," offering strategies to move past these hurdles and confidently share ideas. Christina emphasizes the importance of thinking partners—trusted individuals who challenge your thoughts and help refine your message. Drawing from her extensive experience coaching authors and developing thought leadership content, Christina shares valuable lessons from writing her own book. She reflects on the vulnerability required to bring deep, authentic ideas to an audience and provides insights into sustaining impactful thought leadership over time. Whether you're reluctant or ready to embrace your role, this episode offers practical advice for creating meaningful, enduring thought leadership. Three Key Takeaways: • Thought Leadership Isn’t Only for Extroverts. Christina emphasizes that thought leadership isn't exclusive to big personalities who dominate stages. Her book, Better: A More Authentic Path for the Reluctant Thought Leader, opens doors for quieter, more introspective thinkers, perfectionists, and those hesitant to step into the spotlight, empowering them to share their meaningful ideas. • Better Does Not Equal Louder. Authentic and powerful thought leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. Instead, it's about clarity, simplicity, and genuine insight. Christina challenges the myth that louder equates to better, advocating instead for thoughtful reflection and deliberate expression as essential traits of true thought leadership. • Embrace Imperfection and Take Action. Many aspiring thought leaders delay sharing their ideas because they're waiting for perfection—one more book, another certification, or additional case studies. Christina advocates for getting your ideas out of your head and into the world, embracing vulnerability, and taking actionable steps even when conditions aren't "perfect." If you found our discussion on authentic thought leadership engaging, you might also appreciate our episode featuring Simon Leslie, CEO and Founder of Ink Global. In " An Authentic Voice in Thought Leadership ," Simon shares how publishing his book, There Is No F in Sales, transformed his business and personal growth. He delves into the importance of using one's authentic voice in thought leadership and the unexpected opportunities that arise from it. Tune in to explore how embracing authenticity can amplify your impact in the thought leadership arena.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Sales Isn’t Sleazy - If You’re Doing It Right | Lisa McLeod | 636 22:42

28 days ago22:42

22:42

What if the secret to extraordinary sales success wasn't pressure—but purpose? Lisa McLeod believes the best salespeople aren't chasing quotas. They're chasing impact. Lisa is a bestselling author of " Selling with Noble Purpose ", keynote speaker, and creator of the Noble Purpose business philosophy. Her work has reached over 2 million people on LinkedIn Learning and been featured in Harvard Business Review . In this episode of Leveraging Thought Leadership, we dive deep into the heart of what drives real, sustainable sales success—and how organizations can embrace the purpose to outperform the market by 350%. We talk about the surprising results of Lisa’s research into top-performing sales teams. Spoiler alert: the best sellers aren’t ruthless closers—they’re purpose-driven professionals who genuinely care about making a difference. Lisa shares how she fused two sides of her life—sales and soul—to build a thriving thought leadership business that helps global brands like Hilton and ThyssenKrupp transform their culture from the inside out. Lisa also opens up about the business side of thought leadership. She discusses the challenges of scaling ideas across massive organizations and why turning insight into action requires more than just great content—it requires packaging, structure, and a path for others to teach it. If you're a thought leader wrestling with how to turn your big ideas into business results—or if you’re trying to bring more meaning into your work—this conversation is for you. Three Key Takeaways: • Purpose-driven sales outperform — Salespeople who focus on improving customers' lives consistently outperform their peers, proving that noble purpose is a strategic advantage, not just a feel-good concept. • Sales has an image problem — The profession is too often defined by its worst examples, but true sales success comes from empathy, trust, and a desire to serve—especially in B2B environments. • Thought leaders must sell their ideas — To create impact, you must connect your insights to the client’s pain points and speak their language; selling isn’t about being pushy, it’s about being relevant and solving real problems. If today’s conversation on purpose-driven sales sparked something for you, you won’t want to miss our episode with Mike Latch and Gregg Murphy, Scaling Sales, Not Sacrificing Quality – The AI-Driven Secret to Billion-Dollar Growth . While Lisa McLeod explores the human side of sales—leading with empathy and purpose—Mike and Gregg dive into how organizations can scale that impact without losing what makes it effective. Together, these episodes paint a powerful picture of what modern sales success looks like: purpose at the core, with systems that support it at scale. Listen next and discover how to align purpose with process to drive real, lasting growth.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Transforming Discomfort into Influence | Sean Barnes | 635 35:43

5 weeks ago35:43

35:43

Can an introvert become an influential thought leader? Today, Bill Sherman speaks with Sean Barnes , executive coach, speaker , and host of The Way of the Wolf Podcast . Sean didn't start out comfortable on stage. In fact, his first speaking experience—presenting technical details to executives—was uncomfortable enough to make many quit. Instead, it sparked his determination to transform discomfort into impactful communication. Sean shares his journey from tech executive to thought leadership advocate, highlighting how he incrementally built confidence through intentional practice and feedback. He emphasizes the power of storytelling to make complex ideas relatable and memorable, explaining how shifting focus from himself to the narrative eased his speaking anxiety. They explore Sean's venture into podcasting, where he initially struggled with mechanical scripts and low viewership. Sean describes how persistent commitment and iterative improvement turned his podcast into a thriving platform, dedicated to helping listeners grow as leaders. Sean and Bill discuss the crucial mindset shift from personal achievement to enabling others' success. Sean reveals how adopting this philosophy transformed his professional trajectory, opened doors, and deepened his fulfillment beyond financial gain. Listeners will find valuable insights on overcoming introversion, harnessing storytelling for greater influence, and why true leadership is about elevating others. Three Key Takeaways: • Public speaking is not an innate talent reserved for extroverts, but a learnable skill developed through intentional practice, consistent feedback, and stepping courageously into discomfort to incrementally build confidence and effectiveness. • Storytelling is a powerful tool for making complex or technical information engaging, relatable, and memorable, helping audiences emotionally connect to your message and amplifying your thought leadership impact. • Genuine leadership and thought leadership arise not from personal accomplishments alone, but from shifting focus toward empowering others—enabling their growth, success, and influence, thereby expanding your own legacy and effectiveness. For a deeper exploration of introverted leadership, listen to this episode with Marcel Wijermars' conversation on "Introverted Leadership." While Sean Barnes shares his transformation from public speaking anxiety into impactful storytelling, Marcel provides practical strategies for introverts to excel at networking and energy management. Together, these episodes reveal how introversion, when leveraged strategically, becomes a powerful advantage in authentic leadership and influential communication.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Unlocking Careers Without College | Lawrese Brown | 634 26:00

6 weeks ago26:00

26:00

Is college really the only path to career success? In this compelling episode of Leveraging Thought Leadership, host Bill Sherman speaks with Lawrese Brown , author of " I Don't Have to Go to College: Discover Well-Paying Jobs that Don't Require a Four-Year College Degree " . Lawrese passionately challenges outdated ideas about success, advocating alternative pathways like apprenticeships, boot camps, and vocational training. Originally, Lawrese targeted her message to parents, aiming to reshape perceptions about college as the only route to financial stability. However, she discovered parents often held strong, traditional beliefs about higher education. Shifting her focus directly to students opened powerful conversations. Today's youth, she found, are eager for practical guidance and alternative routes aligned with their true interests. Lawrese reveals how crucial it is for students to trust their instincts, choose careers based on personal values, and recognize multiple forms of intelligence beyond academics. She argues that greater awareness and visibility of non-college paths will empower students, improve self-esteem, and encourage more fulfilling career choices. Lawrese pushes listeners to rethink the "college-or-bust" narrative and advocates celebrating individual paths to success. Three Key Takeaways: • College isn't the only pathway to career success. Alternative routes like apprenticeships, vocational training, and boot camps offer viable, fulfilling opportunities. • Targeting the right audience matters. Shifting the message from parents, who often hold traditional views on education, directly to students can open doors to meaningful conversations and greater openness. • Empowering young people with practical knowledge of alternative career paths encourages informed decisions, higher self-esteem, and more aligned, fulfilling careers. Lawrese Brown emphasizes the importance of crafting your own unique career path, a message echoed by Tony Martignetti in his episode on personal leadership journeys. Check out Tony’s insights for more on challenging conventional thinking. Together, these conversations inspire you to redefine success on your own terms, driven by passion, curiosity, and genuine fulfillment.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Leveraging Awkward Moments for Business Success | Henna Pryor | 633 23:20

6 weeks ago23:20

23:20

Ever felt awkward in a meeting, on stage, or in a tough conversation? What if that discomfort wasn’t a weakness—but an advantage? In this episode of Leveraging Thought Leadership, Peter sits down with workplace performance expert Henna Pryor , author of Good Awkward , to explore the hidden power of social discomfort. Henna breaks down why avoiding awkward moments only makes them worse—and how embracing them can lead to stronger communication, better leadership, and a more resilient mindset. They discuss why so many leaders fear saying the wrong thing (especially in today’s hyper-visible world), how the "spotlight effect" distorts our self-perception, and why placing small bets is the key to building a thought leadership platform. Henna also shares her journey from finance to executive coaching to keynote speaking—proving that growth often comes from stepping into discomfort. This conversation will change the way you think about awkwardness—and might just help you unlock your next big leadership breakthrough. Three Key Takeaways: • Avoiding Awkwardness Makes It Worse – Awkward moments happen to everyone, but dodging them only amplifies the discomfort. Acknowledging and embracing these moments can make you appear more confident and authentic. • Small Bets Lead to Big Wins – Instead of making massive, risky moves, successful thought leaders test ideas by placing small bets—through LinkedIn posts, speaking engagements, or content experiments—to see what resonates before doubling down. • Your Perceived Failures Matter Less Than You Think – The "spotlight effect" tricks us into believing people notice our mistakes more than they actually do. In reality, most people quickly move on—so stop overanalyzing and keep moving forward. Awkward moments often come from misspeaking or making mistakes. Just as Henna Pryor suggests addressing the awkward head-on, Priya Nalkur encourages leaders to embrace imperfection. Both perspectives highlight the power of authenticity and resilience in leadership. If you want to learn how to turn your perceived flaws or failures into strengths, don’t miss this episode 554 - Embracing Imperfection !…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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The Science of Success: How High Achievers Think and Win | Dr. Ruth Gotian | 632 34:45

7 weeks ago34:45

34:45

How do you turn an idea into lasting thought leadership? Dr. Ruth Gotian has done just that—translating academic research on high achievers into actionable insights that help individuals and organizations thrive. In this episode, we explore the power of mentorship, the resilience of high achievers, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Ruth shares stories of Olympic champions, astronauts, and Nobel laureates who refused to settle for mediocrity. Like Dr. Peggy Whitson , who applied to NASA for a decade before becoming the agency’s chief astronaut. Or the Olympian already planning his next win on the flight home. Ruth knows success isn’t a talent—it's a learned skill. She shares how to identify your superpowers, leverage them, and plant ambition like a seed that grows into unstoppable drive. She also reveals her own journey of thought leadership—from struggling with the first chapter of The Success Factor to writing books, speaking globally, and democratizing knowledge in every format possible. Her latest book, The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring: A Complete Guide to Effective Mentoring (The FT Guides) , co-authored with Andy Lopata , was named Runner-Up for Leadership Book of the Year (The Leadership Awards 2024). Whether you're looking to elevate your own success or help others rise, Ruth’s insights will change the way you think about achievement. Three Key Takeaways: • Success is a Learned Skill, Not Just Talent – High achievers aren’t born extraordinary; they develop habits, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of growth. Whether it's Olympians, astronauts, or Nobel laureates, they all follow a process to success that anyone can adopt. • Mentorship is a Game-Changer – The right mentors can push you further than you ever imagined. Surround yourself with people who believe in you more than you believe in yourself, ask the tough questions, and challenge you to think bigger. (The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring explores this in depth.) • Persistence Separates the Good from the Great – Dr. Peggy Whitson applied to be an astronaut for 10 years before finally being accepted—then went on to become NASA’s Chief Astronaut. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t? They refuse to give up. Want to know if you are a High Achiever? Take this 2 minute assessment to find out.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Podcasting for Influence: How to Build Authority Without Ads | Mischa Zvegintzov | 631 21:34

7 weeks ago21:34

21:34

Are you really a thought leader—or just claiming the title? Today's guest Mischa Zvegintzov , Chief Influence Officer at Influence Army , thought he was a Thought Leader. As a sales expert with decades of experience, he knew how to pitch. But when a podcast host bluntly told him, “You don’t look like a thought leader,” everything changed. In this episode, Mischa shares how he pivoted from traditional sales tactics to leveraging podcast guesting as his primary vehicle for influence. He reveals how appearing on 100+ shows transformed his credibility, opened doors, and led to unexpected opportunities. Peter and Mischa also dive into the hidden power of podcast guesting—why it's more than just getting on a mic, how to “hijack” an audience the right way, and why most guests completely miss out on maximizing their impact. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re showing up as a true thought leader or just another name in the noise, this conversation is for you. Expect candid insights, hard-hitting truths, and actionable takeaways on elevating your brand, proving your expertise, and turning podcasting into a game-changing growth strategy. Listen now and learn how to amplify your thought leadership without breaking the bank. Three Key Takeaways: • Podcast guesting is a powerful thought leadership tool – Being a guest on the right podcasts allows you to tap into established audiences, build credibility, and position yourself as an expert without heavy marketing spend. • Most guests fail to maximize their impact – Simply appearing on a podcast isn’t enough; thought leaders must engage in strategic pre-show preparation, deliver value-driven conversations, and actively promote their episodes post-release. • Thought leadership is about proof, not claims – Having a strong message isn’t enough; you need visible credibility. Leveraging podcast guesting effectively can create the social proof necessary to establish real authority in your space. If you've had trouble finding the distinction between Thought Leader and Influencer check out this video by Peter Winick to learn the difference.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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Predicting the Market with the Wisdom of Crowds | Vuk Vuković | 630 17:06

8 weeks ago17:06

17:06

Can social media predict the stock market? Vuk Vukovic , CIO and co-founder of Oraclum Capital , believes it can. His hedge fund leverages the wisdom of the crowd and a proprietary network analysis of social media bubbles to forecast weekly equity market movements. With a PhD in political economics and a track record of accurately predicting elections—including Brexit and Trump—he's now applying his methodology to finance. Vuk started by testing his theory transparently, using his own money and publishing every move in a newsletter. The results? Turning $1,000 into $54,000 in just two years. His audience didn't just watch—they invested. Half of his initial hedge fund backers came from readers who followed his journey. The secret isn't just crowd wisdom. It’s about identifying and weighting opinions correctly. Some people—especially those stuck in echo chambers—make terrible predictors. Vuk’s method filters out the noise, finding the right voices to forecast market trends with over 60% accuracy. Beyond trading, he’s expanding his thought leadership through speaking, writing, and his new book, Elite Networks: The Political Economy of Inequality . By connecting network theory to both financial markets and political influence, he’s building a broader platform for his ideas. Listen in as we explore the intersection of thought leadership, data-driven forecasting, and the power of social media. Three Key Takeaways: • The Wisdom of Crowds Works—If You Filter the Right Voices Crowd predictions are powerful, but only when analyzed correctly. Vuk’s methodology accounts for social media bubbles and bias, identifying the most reliable predictors rather than just following the loudest opinions. • Transparency Builds Trust—and Attracts Investors By publicly testing his trading model with his own money, Vuk proved its effectiveness. His thought leadership strategy—sharing real results in a newsletter—turned followers into hedge fund backers. • Network Theory Applies Beyond Finance Vuk’s research on elite influence and inequality connects directly to his market prediction model. Whether in politics or finance, understanding how people interact within networks provides a competitive edge.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

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AI, Leadership, and the Future: What We Know (and What We Don’t) | Nada Sanders | 629 42:42

9 weeks ago42:42

42:42

How do you lead in a world where the future keeps shifting? Dr. Nada Sanders , a distinguished professor at Northeastern University , an expert in supply chain management and AI-driven decision-making, believes the key is humility. In this episode, we dive into why thought leaders must stay agile, question assumptions, and embrace uncertainty. AI is reshaping business, but no one truly knows what the future holds. Leaders are under pressure to "do something" with AI, yet many don't fully understand its implications. Nada argues that real success lies in balancing human intelligence with machine capabilities—knowing when to trust AI and when to override it. We explore how thought leadership is evolving in this era of rapid change. From the risk of AI-generated misinformation to the need for cross-disciplinary expertise, Nada reveals why rigid thinking is a liability. Thought leaders must develop skills in critical thinking, scenario planning, and resilience. The best leaders won’t be those who make bold, absolute claims—they’ll be the ones who stay curious, adapt quickly, and help others navigate the unknown. As AI-generated content increases, the ability to discern truth from illusion becomes essential. Nada shares why experience matters more than ever and why businesses that sideline senior expertise in favor of digital skills alone are making a critical mistake. Success will come to those who combine deep domain knowledge with the agility to reframe their thinking. We also discuss the future of human-machine collaboration, the power of philosophy in leadership, and why taking time to reflect is more important than ever. Thought leadership isn't just about sharing ideas—it’s about asking the right questions and challenging the status quo. Three Key Takeaways: • Humility is a Superpower in AI-Driven Leadership – Thought leaders must embrace uncertainty and continuously update their perspectives. Absolute certainty is a liability in a world where change is constant. The best leaders will ask, “What don’t we know?” instead of making rigid predictions. • AI is a Tool, Not a Replacement for Human Judgment – AI can generate insights, but it lacks context, experience, and the ability to distinguish truth from misinformation. The leaders who thrive will be those who know when to trust AI, when to challenge it, and how to integrate human expertise with machine intelligence. • Success Requires Cross-Disciplinary Thinking and Adaptability – Siloed expertise is no longer enough. Leaders must develop broad knowledge, connect insights across disciplines, and stay agile. Organizations that combine senior experience with emerging digital skills will have a competitive advantage over those that rely solely on technology. If you are interested in the way AI as a tool is being used in the Thought Leadership space listen to this episode with guest Stephanie Grayson about getting good ideas in front of the right audience and how AI can help.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

1
Scaling Sales, Not Sacrificing Quality – The AI-Driven Secret to Billion-Dollar Growth | Mike Latch & Gregg Murphy | 628 33:53

10 weeks ago33:53

33:53

Can you scale sales without sacrificing quality? Gregg Murphy and Mike Latch have done it—taking a company from $50 million to a billion-dollar run rate. The secret? A fusion of technology, strategic sales processes, and thought leadership that turns even mid-level sales reps into top performers. Now, they’re sharing their insights in their book " Sales Sucks...But It Doesn't Have To: Transform New Reps into Top Performers and Scale Your Sales Org from Millions to Billions " and their AI-driven platform, Patter AI . In this episode, they reveal how they built a system that trained 250 new sales reps a month, slashed onboarding time, and transformed how complex sales are executed. We explore the power of scripting—not as a robotic sales pitch, but as a framework for high-value conversations. Gregg and Mike break down the tech-human synergy that accelerates performance and how their approach challenges the way organizations think about sales training. If you're looking to scale your team, optimize performance, and create a sales culture that thrives—this episode is a must-listen. • Sales Scaling Requires Strategy & Tech – Growing from $50M to $1B wasn’t luck; it was a mix of AI-driven enablement, structured scripting, and a clear sales process that rapidly trained new reps. • Mid-Level Reps Are the Untapped Opportunity – Instead of focusing only on top performers, optimizing mid-tier sales reps can create massive gains with the right tools and training. • Scripting Isn’t a Crutch—It’s a Superpower – When done right, scripting doesn’t make sales robotic; it empowers reps to have high-value conversations that drive better decisions and results. If you are struggling to accelerate your sales or are in need of an updated strategy reach out to the team at Thought Leadership Leverage to book a session to discuss how we can help you.…

Leveraging Thought Leadership

1
Why Leaders Struggle with Emotional Depth (And How to Fix It) | Adam Dorsay | 627 23:05

10 weeks ago23:05