#360 Bridget Burns: Breaking the Higher Ed Hunger Games—Part Two – Chief Change Officer – Podcast

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#386 Lisa Bodell: Stop Drowning in Complexity—How Simplicity Fuels Innovation — Part Two
23 mei· Chief Change Officer
What if the biggest barrier to innovation isn’t a lack of ideas—but a mountain of pointless work?
In Part Two of this series, Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and one of the world’s top speakers on simplification, walks us through her strategy to make work—and life—less overwhelming and more meaningful. She shares how organizations like Pfizer and Google cut clutter to free up creativity, and how we can do the same in our personal lives. Lisa also gets personal about parenting, mental health, and why she believes simplicity is a survival skill in the age of AI.
From ditching unnecessary meetings to raising future-ready kids, this episode is a manual for letting go of the noise and doubling down on what matters.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Why Simplicity Is a Leadership Strategy
“Simplification isn’t organizing. It’s deletion. If you removed just 10% of your clutter—mental or physical—your life would transform.”
Kill a Stupid Rule (Redux)
“Pfizer didn’t need more innovation. They needed fewer barriers. Killing one pointless process saved them thousands of hours.”
Busy ≠ Valuable
“We’ve rewarded ‘more’ instead of ‘meaningful.’ Hustle culture thrives on this lie—and it’s breaking people.”
Personal Simplicity Starts with Self-Audit
“Write down everything you do in a month. Circle what’s meaningful. Now ask: what can you delete, delegate, or decline?”
How to Say No Without Burning Bridges
“Try saying: ‘Yes, if…’ instead of ‘Yes, and…’ Boundaries are the gateway to better work.”
AI vs. Human Intelligence
“AI gives you answers. But it can’t ask the right questions. That’s where human intelligence still leads.”
What Schools Get Wrong About the Future
“We’re training kids to be future employees, not future humans. That’s got to change.”
Redefining Learning with Power Skills
“Forget soft skills—they’re power skills now. Curiosity, resilience, empathy: these will matter more than any degree.”
Raising Future-Ready Humans
“My daughter trained with the FBI. My son wants to be an entrepreneur. I bring them to my talks so they see work in action.”
Why Simplicity Is a Mental Health Imperative
“It’s not about doing less—it’s about doing more of what matters. Simplicity doesn’t just help work. It heals people.”
______________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Lisa Bodell
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#385 Lisa Bodell: Stop Drowning in Complexity—How Simplicity Fuels Innovation — Part One
23 mei· Chief Change Officer
Lisa Bodell didn’t just study the future—she built a career helping others prepare for it.
In Part One of this two-part series, the CEO of FutureThink shares how her path from advertising to futurism led to a global mission: helping teams simplify, innovate, and stop drowning in busywork. She breaks down what it really means to be a futurist (hint: no crystal balls involved), why complexity is the true enemy of innovation, and how she’s helped companies like Pfizer kill zombie meetings and make space for what actually matters.
If your calendar is packed but your brain is fried, this episode is for you.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
From Ads to Innovation Strategy
“I was great at selling creative ideas—but I realized people needed help generating them.”
What a Futurist Actually Does
“It’s not about trendspotting. It’s a structured approach to planning multiple scenarios—and preparing for them.”
Why Simplicity Comes First
“People aren’t tired of innovation. They’re tired of all the unnecessary stuff that gets in the way.”
The Leap into Entrepreneurship
“When you work for yourself, there’s no safety net. But that’s what makes it exciting—and all yours.”
Pivoting with Purpose
“Nothing stays the same. The best entrepreneurs know how—and when—to shift.”
Futuring ≠ Trendspotting
“Real futurists use models, not guesses. It’s about resilience through structured foresight.”
Kill a Stupid Rule (Yes, Really)
“When Pfizer saw that employees couldn’t get things done, we trained 40 champions in one simple tactic: kill a stupid rule. The result? Thousands of hours—and dollars—saved.”
Make Room for What Matters
“Simplification isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing more of what’s meaningful.”
Busy ≠ Valuable
“We reward people for doing more, not for doing what matters. That’s the problem.”
Personal Simplicity = Mental Clarity
“Write down everything you do. Circle what’s meaningful. Then start deleting what’s not.”
______________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Lisa Bodell
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#384 Deborah Perry Piscione: From Power Plays to Pay-It-Forward—How Work Got Rewritten — Part Two
22 mei· Chief Change Officer
Part Two of a 2-part series with Deborah Perry Piscione.
She’s been a White House staffer, a Silicon Valley founder, and now co-author of Employment is Dead. In this final chapter, Deborah unpacks the future of learning, hiring, and leadership. Her son skipped college, built a six-figure business, and learned survival in Antarctica—and she says that path may be more relevant than a classroom.
From blockchain credentials to portfolio careers and life-stage flexibility, Deborah lays out what’s next for both workers and employers. She also answers the big question: does “employment is dead” mean we stop working? Not even close. But we do stop settling.
If you’re a leader, parent, or Gen Zer trying to understand what the future holds—this one’s for you.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Degrees Are Optional, Grit Isn’t
“My son crossed the Drake Passage and got left on a roadside in Argentina. He didn’t go back to college—but he learned more than any syllabus could teach.”
Employment Is Dead? Not Quite
“I’m not saying sit in the basement and play video games. I’m saying don’t tolerate a system that treats you like a cog.”
The Rise of Life-Stage Flexibility
“Whether you’re 25 or 55, you deserve a career path that adjusts to your life—not the other way around.”
Why Employers Must Wake Up Now
“One person can now do the job of three. If leaders don’t plan for that shift, they’ll lose talent before they know what hit them.”
The Most Important Executive Role? CHRO
“Yes, you need a chief AI officer. But you need a human-centered CHRO even more—to help people evolve with the tech.”
The IBM Example
“IBM’s CEO told employees: ‘If this next chapter isn’t for you, we’ll help you find a new path.’ That’s empathy in action.”
Let’s Talk T-Shaped Talent
“It’s not just about your vertical expertise—it’s what else you bring across disciplines that makes you valuable now.”
Redefining Work in the AI Age
“New tech like smart contracts and DAOs will let us work on our terms, from anywhere, on things we actually care about.”
Why Gen Z Might Be Right
“We were told to follow one path. They’re building ten—and most of them don’t involve climbing a corporate ladder.”
What ‘Employment Is Dead’ Really Means
“Traditional jobs may be fading, but work isn’t going anywhere. What’s dying is the idea that your life has to fit inside someone else’s system.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Deborah Perry Piscione
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#383 Deborah Perry Piscione: From Power Plays to Pay-It-Forward—How Work Got Rewritten — Part One
22 mei· Chief Change Officer
What happens when a political insider, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, and a bestselling author walk into a podcast? You get Deborah Perry Piscione.
In Part One of this two-part series, Deborah shares her wild career ride—from shaping policy in Washington to pioneering bottoms-up innovation in tech. She breaks down why fear is a tool in politics, but collaboration fuels real change—and how a chance encounter in a coffee shop led to her first startup and a new lens on what work could be.
From co-founding six ventures to co-authoring Employment is Dead, Deborah’s story is a masterclass in trusting your instincts, failing fast, and knowing when to break the rules. Part Two will dive deeper into AI, upskilling, and why Gen Z might be the smartest workforce we’ve ever had.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
From Capitol Hill to Palo Alto
“In D.C., I learned how to divide people. In Silicon Valley, I learned how to bring them together.”
The Starbucks That Changed Everything
“A stranger asked, ‘How can I help you?’ Three weeks later, I had venture capital.”
Six Companies, Six Books, No Master Plan
“I didn’t have a big strategy—just instincts, observation, and the nerve to try.”
Innovation Isn’t Top-Down Anymore
“The best ideas often come from the people with the smallest paychecks.”
Risk Is the Real Skill
“You can throw ten ideas at the wall. One might stick. The rest will teach you.”
Founders Dilemma: Know When to Let Go
“Sometimes it’s not about the perfect number—it’s about moving the mission forward.”
Why She Launched Work3 Institute
“People spend most of their waking hours at work. So why do so many feel terrible doing it?”
Old Model, New World
“I never understood why finishing work early meant I had to sit until 6 p.m. Taylorism still haunts us.”
Empowering Workers, Not Just Employers
“We’re not just talking to companies—we’re telling workers: you have choices now.”
Gen Z Knows More Than the Bosses
“For the first time, a generation entering the workforce understands the future of work better than the people in charge.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Deborah Perry Piscione
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#382 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part Three
22 mei· Chief Change Officer
Part Three of a 3-part series with Josh Drean.
Josh isn’t here to tweak the old system—he’s here to build a new one. In this final chapter, the Work3 Institute co-founder and co-author of Employment is Dead goes deep on what it actually takes to evolve.
Vince and Josh tackle the hard stuff: Are degrees still relevant in a skills-first world? How does blockchain flip the hiring process? What if your next “employee” is actually a DAO participant with token voting power? And what happens to companies who still think Zoom fatigue is the biggest problem facing the future of work?
If your HR strategy still lives in a Word doc, this episode is your sign to evolve—or get left behind.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Degrees vs. Skills: Why the Shift Is Happening Now
“Degrees used to guarantee employment. Not anymore. Employers are waking up—skills win.”
The Truth About Ivy League Pedigree
“At Harvard, the education’s fine—but it’s the connections that count. That’s the real ROI of the degree.”
AI Has Already Broken the Hiring Process
“You’ve got AI writing job descriptions, AI writing résumés, and AI screening candidates. Humans barely touch the funnel anymore.”
Blockchain and the Rise of the Verifiable Résumé
“With blockchain, we don’t have to trust you—we already know. Your digital wallet becomes your skills passport.”
DAO 101: Flattening Hierarchies and Sharing Power
“A DAO lets frontline workers vote on strategy, not just execute it. It’s work by consensus, not command.”
Why Micromanagers Should Be Nervous
“We don’t need six layers of oversight. Tech lets teams self-govern and move faster—with less drama.”
The Gen Z Warning Shot
“Gen Z isn’t lazy—they’re just not buying the 9-to-5. If you don’t offer autonomy and impact, they’ll leave.”
Spotify’s Win: Let Work Fit Life, Not the Other Way Around
“Companies like Spotify get it—flexibility, rhythm, and respect lead to loyalty.”
From Analog to AI: Vince’s Gen X Reflection
“We learned on Lotus, adapted to Excel, and now manage in the age of ChatGPT. Tech is the bridge, not the barrier.”
Final Advice for Employers: Evolve or Be Replaced
“Change isn’t optional. Either reshape your workplace—or get ready to lose your best people to the ones who did.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#381 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part Two
22 mei· Chief Change Officer
Part Two of a 3-part series on Josh Drean.
Josh has worn many hats—Harvard MBA, psychology grad, co-founder of Work3 Institute and now, co-author of Employment is Dead (Harvard Business Review Press).
In Part 1, we tore down the outdated rituals of traditional employment, including the performative disaster that is the annual engagement survey. Today in Part 2, we go behind the scenes: how did a random cold call spark a bestselling book that landed at HBR?
Josh shares the publishing highs and headaches—crafting a 120-page proposal, keeping the book relevant in a fast-changing world, and building an audience in real time on social media while the manuscript sat in editing limbo. This one’s for every creator, innovator, and future-of-work disruptor trying to stay ahead of the curve.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
A Book Born from a Cold Call
“I know this sounds completely random, but do you want to write a book together?” That’s how co-author Deborah Perry Piscione kicked off Employment is Dead. One unexpected phone call, a big idea, and a sticky title later—they caught Harvard Business Review’s attention.
Publishing in a Real-Time World
“Imagine writing a chapter a year ago, only to have it go live twelve months later—it’s outdated by then.” With AI and Web3 changing everything weekly, Josh kept the conversation fresh through TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube while waiting for the book to hit shelves.
The Proposal That Was ‘Way Too Long’
“We ended up with 120 pages—which everyone said was way too much.” But that oversized pitch sparked a bidding war. Why? Because they weren’t just selling a book. They were calling out a broken system—and offering a blueprint to fix it.
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#380 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part One
22 mei· Chief Change Officer
What if employment as we know it has already died—and we’re just pretending not to notice?
In Part One of this three-part series, Josh Drean—Harvard MBA, startup founder, and co-author of Employment is Dead(Harvard Business Review Press)—joins Vince to dissect the slow death of traditional work. From the failure of annual engagement surveys to the false promise of “people-first” slogans, Josh makes it clear: the current system was built for the factory floor, not the future.
We trace Josh’s journey from studying psychology to working in corporate consulting during the pandemic, and now building the Work3 Institute to help leaders redesign employment itself. Why is HR still feared? Why are employees called “assets” but treated like expenses? And how can new technologies like Web3 create better human systems?
Part Two digs into how a cold outreach led to an HBR publishing deal—and the 10 principles Josh says every modern worker wants now.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Why Engagement Surveys Are a Broken Ritual
“Surveys are the dumbest way to build a relationship. They’re not designed for honesty—and most leaders don’t really want the truth.”
The False Math of ‘People Are Our Greatest Asset’
“If people were really assets, they’d show up on the balance sheet. But they don’t. They’re an expense—and treated like one.”
The Pandemic Wake-Up Call
“I started consulting right as COVID hit. It forced companies to rethink safety, remote work, and what their employees actually needed.”
The HR Dilemma: Protector of People or Risk Manager?
“Most employees still associate HR with layoffs. That’s a brand problem—and a system design failure.”
From Assembly Lines to AI: Why Taylorism Is Still Haunting Us
“Modern work still clings to an industrial-era model—check the box, don’t ask questions. That doesn’t fit the information age.”
How Psychology Led Josh Into Web3 and DAO Culture
“My reason for doing this never changed—it’s about building better experiences. But tech gave me the tools to scale that.”
Meet the Digital Native Workforce (a.k.a. Your Kids)
“My 8-year-old builds real friendships through Fortnite. If you think digital community isn’t real—you’re already behind.”
The 10 Operating Principles of Work3
“From flexibility and autonomy to interoperability and ownership—these are the non-negotiables for the next generation of work.”
Why Forcing People Back to the Office Will Backfire
“Employees don’t want the typewriter factory version of work. RTO is a backwards step—and they know it.”
From Psychology Grad to HBR Author: Josh’s Journey Begins
“I didn’t have a tenured chair or a best-selling track record. Just a cold outreach, a clear message—and a broken system to fix.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Josh Drean
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#379 Alison Stewart: Building a Life Concierge Startup From Scratch—Part Two
18 mei· Chief Change Officer
Overwhelmed by life? Alison Stewart gets it—and she’s building a startup to help fix it.
In Part Two, the Overalls COO shares how her team is rethinking employee benefits by offering something surprisingly human: life support, literally. Whether it’s booking a plumber, navigating eldercare, or finding summer camps before the January rush, Overalls acts as a concierge for the chaos of modern life.
Alison also opens up about what it really takes to scale an idea from zero—while trusting yourself to write the policies, run the ops, and still answer the phones. Spoiler: she’s done it all. If you’ve ever dreamed of building something meaningful from scratch, this is your operations masterclass.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:
What Overalls Actually Does (Hint: It’s Not Laundry)
“We’re your life concierge—handling everything from vetting plumbers to eldercare planning. Our job is to give your time and sanity back.”
The Startup Test: From Strategy to Scheduling Cleaners
“Two weeks in, I was calling Colorado well inspectors, pitching insurance partners, and writing job descriptions. All in one day. That’s startup life.”
Why a Stay-at-Home Mom Might Be Your Next Concierge
“We tapped into an overlooked talent pool—retirees, caregivers, underemployed parents—and gave them flexible, meaningful work. It’s a win-win.”
HR Is Finally Getting Thank-You Notes
“Employers tell us: this is the first time employees are actively thanking HR for a benefit. That’s unheard of.”
The Burnout Solution That Isn’t Therapy
“Burnout isn’t always solved by meditation apps. Sometimes, it’s about having someone book that MRI or call the insurance company for you.”
Confidence as a Startup Operator: Earning It Day by Day
“Do I know how to write an HR policy? Not at first. But I figured it out. In a startup, everything’s your job.”
Why Big Company Life Doesn’t Prepare You for This
“In corporate, you focus on one slice. In startup life, you are the pie. You handle everything, whether or not you’ve done it before.”
From Lean to Leveraged: Hiring with Intention
“Writing job descriptions meant I could finally hire someone to take something off my plate. But no one else was going to write them.”
Mindset > Metrics (At Least in the Beginning)
“Don’t just optimize for titles or compensation. Start with: What am I actually excited to build? What problem do I care enough to solve?”
Advice for Fellow Change Progressives
“Talk to people. Write it down. Be honest about what lights you up—and patient with the timeline. Growth is a slow burn. Trust it.”
____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Alison Stewart
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
- Luisteren Nogmaals beluisteren Doorgaan Wordt afgespeeld...
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#378 Alison Stewart: The LinkedIn DM That Launched a Startup—Part One
18 mei· Chief Change Officer
Not all career changes are dramatic. Some are deeply deliberate—and a little serendipitous.
In Part One, Alison Stewart, COO of Overalls, walks us through her transition from 10+ years in the financial sector to co-founding a startup she discovered on LinkedIn. With two kids at home and a stable job in a Fortune 100 company, Alison didn’t jump recklessly. Instead, she asked the hard questions: Am I fulfilled? What do I want next? And how much risk am I really willing to take?
This episode unpacks what happens when you combine career intuition with operational precision—and how a well-timed DM can change everything.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:
From Corporate Climb to Personal Wake-Up Call
“Time started blending together during the pandemic. I had to ask: Am I actually happy? Or just coasting in a cycle of constant resets?”
The Treadmill of Big Company Life
“With every leadership change, we took ten steps back before we moved one forward. I was learning—but I wasn’t growing.”
Childhood Moves, Adult Adaptability
“Moving five times by age 14 taught me to see change as an opportunity. That mindset still guides me today.”
The Pregnancy + Merger Combo
“Just weeks before giving birth to my second child, my business unit was sold. The uncertainty could’ve been paralyzing—but I chose to treat it as a new beginning.”
Risk—But Not Reckless: Mapping a Smarter Pivot
“I didn’t quit cold. I asked: What am I good at? What fulfills me? What can my family support? I gave myself permission to explore—and permission to say no.”
The Non-Obvious Job Search Strategy
“Instead of applying for jobs I knew I could do, I reverse-engineered what I wanted: values, pace, purpose. I wasn’t chasing a title—I was chasing a fit.”
The Moment Overalls Popped Off the Screen
“When I read about Overalls, something clicked. I didn’t even know if they were hiring. I just knew I had to reach out.”
Why LinkedIn Isn’t Just Noise
“It wasn’t a random scroll. I used LinkedIn intentionally—to research, reflect, and eventually connect. That DM changed everything.”
Communicating Across Industries
“Moving out of insurance meant translating my skill set. I had to show how what I did mapped onto what I wanted to do.”
Community + Clarity = Career Confidence
“A networking group of MBA alumni helped me spot my own excitement. They said, ‘This one lights you up. Go for it.’ That feedback made all the difference.”
____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Alison Stewart
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
- Luisteren Nogmaals beluisteren Doorgaan Wordt afgespeeld...
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#377 Ral West: From Charter Planes to Real Estate Empires—Systems, Grit, and Reinvention
17 mei· Chief Change Officer
Most people retire after one successful business. Ral West kept building.
In this episode, Ral shares how she co-ran a charter airline between Alaska and Hawaii for 25 years—eventually selling it to Alaska Airlines—and then launched into her next chapters: owning cruise ships, investing in real estate syndications, and helping other entrepreneurs find sustainability without burnout.
From navigating gender bias in a family business to designing automated booking systems and letting go of control through delegation, Ral’s story is a masterclass in evolving through every season of life. Whether you’re in the startup grind, planning an exit, or rethinking what “retirement” means—her story will get you dreaming smarter and bolder.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The 25-Year Flight Plan: From Tourism to Aviation
“I started in Alaska tourism. My husband was in real estate. Together, we launched a charter service to Hawaii—and turned it into a full airline.”
Selling to Alaska Airlines: A Strategic Exit
“We knew they were entering the Hawaii market. Instead of competing, we showed them why buying us was smarter.”
When Cruise Ships Became the Next Chapter
“We bought five small cruise ships out of bankruptcy, redesigned the Alaskan travel experience—and then pivoted again after COVID shut everything down.”
Why Real Estate Was the Right Post-COVID Play
“We own part of over 6,000 apartment units in five states. Why? Because homeownership is becoming harder, and rental demand is rising.”
From Exhaustion to Empowerment: Lessons from the Middle Years
“Between 35 and 55, I was stretched thin—business, babies, burnout. I had to build systems and teams to stay afloat.”
The Real ROI of Delegation
“Delegation isn’t about giving things away—it’s about building trust and giving others space to shine.”
Turning Intuition into Systems
“I realized I made ad-spend decisions based on 3-day sales trends. Once I named it, I turned it into a repeatable formula my team could follow.”
Reservation System Reinvention
“We invested two years into building an online booking system that ran 24/7—freeing us from the phones and doubling our revenue.”
Not Your Typical Retirement Plan
“I could’ve retired 16 years ago. I didn’t. I love working. My retirement plan is doing what I want, when I want, with the systems to support it.”
Advice for Entrepreneurs at Any Age
“Be bold. Stay curious. Watch the world. And don’t let age—or fear—be the thing that keeps you small.”
______________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Ral West
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
- Luisteren Nogmaals beluisteren Doorgaan Wordt afgespeeld...
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#376 Athena Brownson: Healing in Real Time—The Comeback Behind the Chronic Pain — Part Two
17 mei· Chief Change Officer
Comebacks rarely happen all at once. They’re built in small moments, with slow wins.
In Part Two, Athena Brownson opens up about what it really takes to rebuild when chronic illness becomes your new normal. She walks us through her mindset rituals, the power of written affirmation, and how she finally learned the one thing no athlete ever wants to admit: she couldn’t do it alone.
From retraining her brain to let go of pain patterns, to redefining leadership through delegation, Athena shares a playbook for resilience that’s part spiritual, part practical, and 100% earned.

Whether you’re healing from illness, burnout, or just life’s curveballs—this is your reminder that growth is still possible, even in survival mode.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Training Her Brain to Stop Listening to Pain
“Our brains get stuck in pain patterns. I use breathwork, affirmations, and routines to teach mine a new message: You’re safe. You’re healing.”
Why Routines Became Her Lifeline
“Every day starts with journaling, breathwork, affirmations. I write: I am healthy. I am healing. My body is getting stronger. I speak it until I believe it.”
Delegation as a Leadership Superpower
“Being sick taught me what being a leader really means—letting go. Delegation isn’t giving up control; it’s giving others a chance to thrive.”
How Chronic Illness Redefined Her Business Model
“I couldn’t keep doing it all. So I built a team that could run without me on bad days—and succeed with me on the good ones.”
Your Tribe Is Everything
“After ten years, I finally found people who want me well. Who care more about my health than a commission. They’re my family now.”
The Mental Game of Chronic Recovery
“You don’t need to fix it all today. Start with one percent better. That’s how I got out of survival mode.”
Accountability on Paper
“I print out my must-do list and check it off every day. If I don’t write it down, it doesn’t happen. It’s how I stay in motion.”
Pen, Paper, and Confidence
“Writing makes the healing real. Every word reinforces a new belief system—one I can see and hold.”
Jodie Foster, Masterclass, and the Simplicity of Creation
“All you need is pen, paper, and confidence. That line hit me. You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need to start.”
Her Message to Anyone Struggling
“It’s okay to acknowledge pain. Just don’t stay stuck in it. Tiny steps add up. Your healing doesn’t need to be loud—it just needs to begin.”
______________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena Brownson
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#375 Athena Brownson: Lyme Disease, Real Estate, and Radical Resilience — Part One
17 mei· Chief Change Officer
At 25, Athena Brownson was a rising star in real estate with a pro skiing past and unstoppable energy. Then came Lyme disease—a diagnosis that would upend her health, identity, and entire way of life.
In Part One, Athena shares the unfiltered truth of what it means to live with a chronic, invisible illness for nearly a decade. From neck surgery to plasma transfusions, she walks us through the daily battles, emotional toll, and quiet strength it takes to show up—even when she doesn’t want to.

This episode is a reminder that resilience isn’t loud or pretty—it’s built moment by moment, one breath at a time.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
From Pro Skier to Top Agent: The Unexpected Pivot
“I never thought I’d end up in real estate. But once I did, it clicked—relationships, homes, design. It all came together.”
At the Peak—and Then Everything Changed
“Three years in, I was at the top of my game. Then came the diagnosis: Lyme disease. My body started falling apart.”
What Lyme Disease Actually Does (And Why It’s Hard to Diagnose)
“Lyme attacks your body where you’re genetically weakest. For me, that meant chronic nerve pain and multiple autoimmune issues.”
From Athlete to Patient: Learning to Survive in a New Body
“I don’t remember what it’s like to feel okay. Every day, I wake up in pain. That’s been my life for almost eight years.”
Plasma Transfusions and Mental Fog: A Day in the Life
“I get plasma removed and replaced four days a month. My life revolves around staying alive and staying upright.”
Invisible Illness, Visible Impact
“People don’t see it—but that doesn’t mean it’s not real. Lyme is the fastest-growing epidemic in the U.S.”
Toolkit Mentality: How Music, Coffee, and Podcasts Keep Her Going
“I don’t always want to get up. But music, good coffee, a favorite podcast—those little rituals make it possible.”
Why You Must Be Your Own Advocate
“With Lyme, you have to fight for your care. You have to find the right doctors, the right support, the right rhythm.”
Grit Over Glamour: Lessons from the Ski Slopes
“Skiing taught me everything—discipline, failure, grit. That training saved me when life got really hard.”
The Power of Mental Focus When the Body Fails
“It’s not just physical. The mental part—the decision to keep going—is what gets me through every single day.”
______________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Athena Brownson
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#374 Nicole F. Roberts: Turning Science and Story into Impact—Part Two
17 mei· Chief Change Officer
What do janitors, jazz musicians, and neuroscientists have in common? According to Dr. Nicole F. Roberts, everything.
In Part Two, the Doctor of Public Health and co-author of Generosity WINS unpacks how she and Monty Wood turned a business book into a narrative experiment—part fiction, part real-world leadership case study. She shares how they chose a fictional hotel manager named Emily to guide readers through generosity’s ripple effects, and how each chapter’s QR code links to a real leader with real lessons.
We also explore her annual Brain Health Summit, hosted during Super Bowl weekend with NFL stars, neuroscientists, and 5,000 guests. It’s science, story, and social impact—all rolled into one unforgettable conversation.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Why No One Buys Healthcare Books—But Everyone Needs This One
“People won’t read about systems. They’ll read about people. So we built a fictional character, Emily, to carry real wisdom forward.”
Inside the Writing Process: Spreadsheets, Stickies, and Storytelling
“We tracked every theme. We mapped each arc. It was my dissertation mind meets Monty’s business brain—and it worked.”
Real Leaders, Fictional World: How Emily’s Journey Became Everyone’s
“Each person Emily interviews is real. Every QR code leads to their profile. We didn’t make this stuff up—we brought it to life.”
Redefining Generosity: It’s Not About Giving Money
“Generosity is any act of kindness or support, given without expectation of return. If you expect something back, it’s just a transaction.”
The Ripple Effect Is Real—And Unmeasurable
“You can’t plug karma into a spreadsheet. But trust, reputation, and relationships? They’ll open doors years later.”
A Thank-You Changed Everything
“One reader started thanking hospital staff daily. It brought him—and others—to tears. That’s the ROI no one talks about.”
Why They Made Emily a Woman—and Placed Her in Hospitality
“Hospitality is about anticipating needs. It’s the perfect metaphor for generosity. Emily’s age and role made her ready to learn, not perfect.”
Can Generosity Be Taught? Yes—With Grief and Grace
“We found our answers in boys’ schools and in people who’d lost everything. Generosity grows when modeled—and when it’s all you have left.”
Brain Summit at the Super Bowl? Yes, Really.
“5,000 guests, jazz museums, NFL players, and neuroscientists. Every year, we throw a party with a purpose.”
Next Year: San Francisco, Brain Health, and the Environment
“Mark your calendar: Super Bowl weekend in SF. Brain Summit’s next theme? The intersection of neuroscience and nature.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Dr. Nicole F. Roberts
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#373 Nicole F. Roberts: How a Neuroscience Dropout Built a Life Around Purpose—Part One
16 mei· Chief Change Officer
What happens when your five-year plan falls apart—and you start to like it that way?
In Part One, Nicole F. Roberts—Doctor of Public Health, human rights founder, and co-author of Generosity WINS—shares the real story behind her very unpolished path. From flunking chemistry and walking away from med school dreams to launching a human rights firm mid-dissertation, Nicole proves that success isn’t always strategic—it’s responsive, human, and messy in the best way.
We explore how her neuroscience roots shaped her curiosity, why she walked away from Washington policy to chase impact, and what changed when she started listening more to real people than political agendas. This episode is for anyone who’s ever hit pause—and realized the reroute was actually the destination.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
When the Neurosurgeon Dream Crashed—and Something Better Emerged
“I realized I was terrible at chemistry… and didn’t want to spend life writing prescriptions.”
How Policy Lost Her—and Public Health Found Her
“Policy’s great—until politics gets involved. I needed to see real change, not just write about it.”
A Six-Month Pause That Turned Into Six Years (and a Human Rights Firm)
“My dissertation chair died. I got divorced. So I started a human rights firm. As one does.”
The Problem with Think Tanks (and the Need to Do, Not Just Think)
“I could write papers forever—but what if no one ever acts on them?”
When Real Life Rewrote the Dissertation
“Those six years gave me a new lens. I rewrote everything—from the topic to the way I thought.”
Her Final Research Topic: Why Neuroscience Can’t Scale Without Generosity
“It turns out collaboration doesn’t come easy in science. Ownership often trumps impact.”
Why Her Dissertation Still Sits on a Shelf
“It was supposed to be my first book. I haven’t opened it in years. I just burned out.”
Co-Authoring Generosity WINS: When a Business Book Becomes a Neuroscience Playbook
“Monty had this premise: success follows giving. I knew the science could back it up—we just had to find the story.”
A Business Fable, a Fictional Heroine, and Real-Life Interviews
“Every chapter has a QR code that takes you to a real leader’s profile. Fictional story, real lessons.”
Why Kindness Is Strategic, Not Soft
“You can’t show the ROI of karma—but the people who give are the ones who last.”
_________________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Dr. Nicole F. Roberts
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#372 Building a Life (and Career) on Everyday Generosity — Part Two
16 mei· Chief Change Officer
What does generosity look like in a divided, distracted world?
In Part Two, Monte Wood—former CEO of Opus Agency and author of Generosity Wins—dives deeper into how generosity gets lost in the noise of modern life and what it takes to reclaim it. From quiet reflections on Steve Jobs’ legacy to a chance encounter with Elon Musk in a hotel hot tub, Monte shares how generosity can take many forms—and why practicing it daily is the ultimate leadership move.
He also unpacks the forces working against generosity: media polarization, digital disconnection, and our culture of performative success. But with optimism, awareness, and a bit of handwritten gratitude, Monte believes we can rewire how we relate to ourselves—and each other.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
What Generosity Isn’t: Learning from the Hard Edges
“Steve Jobs wasn’t always kind—but his mission was generous. He wanted everyone to access technology. That matters.”
The Hidden Generosity of Power Players
“Elon Musk sat in a hot tub and talked German cinema with strangers. That moment of presence? Pure generosity.”
Why Greed and Media Noise Make Generosity Harder
“Our media doesn’t report anymore—it polarizes. It’s designed to divide us, not connect us. That’s why generosity is revolutionary.”
Connectivity ≠ Connection
“Texting someone in the same room isn’t connection. Real generosity requires presence—not just Wi-Fi.”
A 600-Day Habit That Changed His Life
“For nearly two years, Monte has written down one act of generosity and one moment of appreciation. Every. Single. Day.”
How to Start Your Own Generosity Practice
“It doesn’t have to be dramatic. A smile. A name remembered. A moment of full attention. That’s the starting line.”
The ROI of Generosity Isn’t in Metrics—It’s in Meaning
“You won’t find it in a spreadsheet. But the return? Real connection. Better leadership. More joy.”
Be Generous With Yourself, Too
“Monte exercises daily. Not for performance—for self-gift. Being generous starts with how you treat your own body and mind.”
Hope Isn’t Naive—It’s a Form of Generosity
“Monte calls himself ‘appropriately optimistic.’ His optimism is calibrated—not blind. It’s a gift he gives carefully to others.”
Why He Still Believes in a More Generous World
“We can’t control the noise—but we can choose how we show up. And small, consistent acts of generosity still move the world.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Monte Wood
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#371 Monte Wood: Why Generosity Isn’t Just Noble—It’s Strategic — Part One
16 mei· Chief Change Officer
Is generosity a nice-to-have—or a career superpower?
In Part One, Monte Wood, former CEO of Opus Agency and author of Generosity Wins, makes the case for generosity as a leadership strategy with real-world ROI. Drawing from personal stories, his time working with legends like Steve Jobs, Andy Grove, and Mark Benioff, and life lessons from his own mentors, Monte shares how small acts of generosity can ripple out into long-term success—and why true generosity isn’t transactional, it’s transformational.
This episode explores what it means to give without expecting anything in return—and how doing so just might give you everything you’ve been looking for.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The 16-Year-Old With a Generosity Formula
“My mentor told me: believe you can succeed, live a good life, and be generous. That’s it. That’s what I followed.”
From Milton-Freewater to CEO
“Even in a town of 3,500, I believed I’d lead a $100 million company. Generosity helped me get there.”
The Real Test of Generous Leadership
“Great leaders don’t just care about your output—they care about your growth, your family, your life beyond work.”
The Taco Bell CEO Who Taught His Team to Change Tires
“Leadership isn’t just coaching performance. It’s preparing people for life—even if that means teaching them how to balance a checkbook.”
Why Remembering Someone’s Name Is a Leadership Move
“Mark Benioff would walk into a room of 2,000 people and greet them by name. That’s not ego—that’s care.”
The Toyota Truck and the Corner Cubicle
“Andy Grove reinvented Intel—and drove a beat-up Toyota. That’s not performative humility. That’s values in action.”
Is It Generosity If It Helps You Win?
“If generosity leads to success, is it selfish? No—it’s just wise. When done with pure intent, generosity multiplies.”
Defining Generosity (Without the Guilt Trip)
“It’s not about money. It’s any act of giving or kindness done without expecting a return. Even a smile counts.”
Smiles, Bathrooms, and the Chemistry of Connection
“A smile can save a life. Cleaning a public restroom can create joy for someone you’ll never meet. This is the power we all hold.”
The Ripple Effect Is Real—And It Changes Lives
“When you’re generous to one person, they’re more likely to be generous to someone else. The ROI? It might not be financial—but it’s exponential.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Monte Wood
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#370 Paul Austin: Can Psychedelics Unlock Performance—Without Losing the Plot?
16 mei· Chief Change Officer
Paul Austin isn’t here to evangelize psychedelics. He’s here to demystify them.
As the founder and CEO of Third Wave, Paul has spent a decade educating the public on responsible psychedelic use—from microdosing protocols to full-dose journeys. In this episode, he shares how psychedelics are being used not just to treat mental health conditions, but to enhance leadership, decision-making, and personal clarity.
We explore the science of neuroplasticity, the legal gray zones, and the risks of skipping the prep work. For high-performers feeling stuck or burnt out, Paul outlines a roadmap grounded in safety, structure, and serious self-inquiry. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a guide—not a push—for what transformation can look like when approached with respect.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Why He Started Third Wave—and Why His Dad Tried It Too
“My dad once told me he hadn’t been that disappointed since his brother died. Years later, I guided him through his first psilocybin journey.”
From Microdosing to Life Design
“Microdosing isn’t about escape—it’s about reprogramming. You still have to show up and do the hard stuff.”
Psychedelics as a Skill, Not a Fix
“Just like cooking or martial arts, this is a practice. You get better with time, feedback, and intention.”
When Leaders Feel Stuck, This Is the Pattern Breaker
“For many execs I work with, it’s not about trauma—it’s about lost clarity, emotional fog, or a 360 review that hit too close to home.”
Start Low, Go Slow: Why That Advice Matters More Than Ever
“You can always take more—you can’t take less. Begin with microdosing. Build awareness before diving deep.”
The Snow Globe and the Ski Slope: Two Metaphors That Explain It All
“Think of psychedelics as shaking up the snow globe. Or fresh powder on a slope—you’re no longer stuck in someone else’s ruts.”
Legal Doesn’t Mean Safe. Illegal Doesn’t Mean Dangerous.
“Psychedelics became illegal for political—not medical—reasons. But that doesn’t mean you can skip the legal risks.”
Where It’s Legal—And What to Do If It’s Not
“Colorado. Oregon. The Netherlands. Costa Rica. Go where it’s legal. Work with a guide. Respect the law.”
The Five Elements of a Safe Psychedelic Journey
“Assessment. Preparation. Facilitation. Integration. Microdosing. Miss one, and the whole thing can derail.”
Why No One Should Be Talked Into It
“Don’t do it for your friend, your spouse, or your coach. You have to want this for you.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guests: Paul Austin
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#369 Chris Schrader: From Rainy-Day Idea to Global Movement—The 24 Hour Race Story–Part Two
14 mei· Chief Change Officer
After launching a global anti-trafficking movement in his teens, Chris Schrader didn’t settle down—he leveled up.
In Part Two, the founder of the 24 Hour Race draws parallels between navigating the Gobi Desert and leading high-growth businesses across continents. From dropping out of Harvard to leading expeditions and scaling software companies, Chris shares why building teams isn’t about maximizing your strongest players—it’s about supporting your weakest. And why sometimes, real leadership means being the “secretary of the team,” not the star.
This episode goes beyond business tactics and into the mindset behind meaningful leadership. It’s a deep dive into servant leadership, self-doubt, ruthless decision-making, and how to chase your personal North Star—even if you never reach it.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
When ISIS Threats and Identity Crises Collide
“Some challenges are existential—like not knowing what we are. Others are urgent—like whether to cancel an event after a terror threat.”
The Expedition Analogy: Climbing Unmapped Peaks
“Trying to grow an organization is like summiting a mountain no one’s climbed before—you’ll miss things, reroute, and sometimes have to turn back.”
The Gobi Desert and the North Star
“You navigate by stars knowing you’ll never touch them. That’s what great goals are—worth chasing even if you never arrive.”
The Secret to Team Performance
“You’re not defined by your best players. You’re defined by your weakest. Great leaders either lift them—or make hard calls.”
Servant Leadership Isn’t Just Humility—It’s Precision
“As a leader, I’m the expedition secretary. My job is to clear the path so my team can outperform me in every way.”
When to Cut Loose and When to Coach
“Too many leaders let low performers drag down morale. In expeditions, that mistake can get someone killed. In business, it just slowly kills momentum.”
The Myth-Building Side of Leadership
“Sometimes leadership means becoming something aspirational—a myth people can believe in. But you still serve the mission, not yourself.”
Between What You Want to Be and What You Need to Be
“I want to be the first man to circumnavigate the moon. But I need to be a good son, a great partner, a reliable chairman—and pay my sous-vide-powered electricity bill.”
The Hardest Impact Isn’t Global—It’s Personal
“It’s easy to romanticize Musk or Zuckerberg. Harder? Being the friend who actually shows up. That’s the real Paragon of humanity.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Chris Schrader
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#368 Chris Schrader: From Rainy-Day Idea to Global Movement—The 24 Hour Race Story–Part One
13 mei· Chief Change Officer
Sometimes the biggest movements begin with a simple question: What can I do?
In Part One, Chris Schrader, founder and executive chairman of the 24 Hour Race, shares the unfiltered origin story behind the world’s largest student-run movement to fight human trafficking. What started as a walk across England in memory of a friend became a 24-hour endurance race, then a global platform that’s raised over US$20 million across 25 cities.
But Chris doesn’t romanticize it. He breaks down how it all came together—messy, accidental, and fueled more by belief than a master plan. From skeptical school principals to six-figure fundraisers, this episode explores what happens when students stop waiting for permission and start building real impact from the ground up.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
The Walk That Started It All
“Six months after a joke about walking across England, we were actually doing it—and raised HK$200,000 for rare diseases.”
From Expedition to Endurance Sport
“We turned a 150km trek across Hong Kong into a run-swim-row challenge—just to prove what students could really do.”
The Birth of the 24 Hour Race
“A simple idea: teams running a 24-hour relay. No elite athletes, just anyone willing to push themselves for a cause.”
Why He Chose Human Trafficking—Without Knowing Much About It
“It wasn’t the topic at first. It was the intensity. We needed a cause strong enough to power people through the pain.”
Ignored by Schools, Backed by Students
“Principals laughed us out of the room. So we went straight to students—and they built the movement themselves.”
From One-Off Event to Global Force
“What was supposed to be a one-time race exploded. Within a year, we were oversubscribed and scaling city by city.”
Beyond Fundraising: Creating Life-Defining Moments
“It’s not just money. Over a million young people have done the race. We want them to remember it when they’re 80.”
Why They Treat Charity Like a Marketplace
“People come for the music, the sleepover, the fun—and that’s fine. We win them over without preaching.”
Raising Future Leaders, Not Just Dollars
“Student directors interview NGOs, ask hard questions, and learn how to be real fiduciaries—not just fundraisers.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Chris Schrader
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
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#367 Michael Sakraida: Money, Media, and the Myths That Keep Us Stuck—Part Two
13 mei· Chief Change Officer
In today’s world, financial advice is everywhere—but rarely helpful.
In Part Two, Michael Sakraida continues dismantling outdated ideas about wealth, offering a fresh framework that centers emotional intelligence and personal values. He explains why legacy isn’t just about what you leave behind, but how you live today. From the limits of “aggressive investor” labels to the chaos of unregulated financial influencers, Michael unpacks the hidden damage done by bad advice—and what real financial coaching should look like.
This episode is a must-listen if you’re tired of one-size-fits-all strategies and ready to treat your money like an extension of who you are, not just a number on a screen.
Key Highlights of Our Interview:
Redefining Financial Independence
“Real financial freedom is when you can work for joy—not for a paycheck. It’s about building a life and a legacy, not just hitting a number.”
Why Risk Tolerance Tests Don’t Work
“You can’t reduce human emotion to a 10-question quiz. And when fear hits, those ‘aggressive’ investors often panic first.”
The Emotional Blind Spot in Wealth Planning
“Advisors must ask three things: Where did your money come from? What do you want it to mean? And what’s your experience with Wall Street?”
From Bull Market Bravado to Bear Market Breakdown
“Long bull runs create fake confidence. The minute the market drops, people flip—and advisors are caught off guard.”
Why Financial Influencers Should Be Regulated (or Shut Down)
“If licensed advisors need approval for every email, why can anyone post financial advice to millions on TikTok without oversight?”
The Financial Media Smut Club
“Some writers don’t even understand what they’re publishing. They confuse inflation with inflation rate—and no one catches it.”
Investing Isn’t a DIY Project When Emotions Are Involved
“This isn’t like assembling IKEA furniture. When fear and greed show up, it’s not about logic—it’s about who you are.”
Money as a Mirror
“The more your investments reflect your values, the less likely you’ll get spooked by the market. That’s the power of alignment.”
Why He Wrote Money, Balance and Joy
“People don’t need another retirement calculator. They need a language for their emotions—and a way forward that actually fits who they are.”
_____________________
Connect with us:
Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Michael Sakraida
--Chief Change Officer--
Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.
Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence
for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,
Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.
EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.
18 Million+ All-Time Downloads.
80+ Countries Reached Daily.
Global Top 1.5% Podcast.
Top 10 US Business.
Top 1 US Careers.
>>>170,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<
- Luisteren Nogmaals beluisteren Doorgaan Wordt afgespeeld...
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#386 Lisa Bodell: Stop Drowning in Complexity—How Simplicity Fuels Innovation — Part Two

#385 Lisa Bodell: Stop Drowning in Complexity—How Simplicity Fuels Innovation — Part One

#384 Deborah Perry Piscione: From Power Plays to Pay-It-Forward—How Work Got Rewritten — Part Two

#383 Deborah Perry Piscione: From Power Plays to Pay-It-Forward—How Work Got Rewritten — Part One

#382 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part Three

#381 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part Two

#380 Josh Drean: Employment Is Dead—Now Let’s Rebuild It — Part One

#379 Alison Stewart: Building a Life Concierge Startup From Scratch—Part Two

#378 Alison Stewart: The LinkedIn DM That Launched a Startup—Part One

#377 Ral West: From Charter Planes to Real Estate Empires—Systems, Grit, and Reinvention

#376 Athena Brownson: Healing in Real Time—The Comeback Behind the Chronic Pain — Part Two

#375 Athena Brownson: Lyme Disease, Real Estate, and Radical Resilience — Part One

#374 Nicole F. Roberts: Turning Science and Story into Impact—Part Two

#373 Nicole F. Roberts: How a Neuroscience Dropout Built a Life Around Purpose—Part One

#372 Building a Life (and Career) on Everyday Generosity — Part Two

#371 Monte Wood: Why Generosity Isn’t Just Noble—It’s Strategic — Part One

#370 Paul Austin: Can Psychedelics Unlock Performance—Without Losing the Plot?

#369 Chris Schrader: From Rainy-Day Idea to Global Movement—The 24 Hour Race Story–Part Two

#368 Chris Schrader: From Rainy-Day Idea to Global Movement—The 24 Hour Race Story–Part One

#367 Michael Sakraida: Money, Media, and the Myths That Keep Us Stuck—Part Two