Category Archives: Personal Development

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216: How to Cope with the Changing World of Work

With Stephen Warley

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My first chat with today’s guest came roughly a year ago. That’s when I was invited to appear on his podcast.

His name is Stephen Warley, and he blogs at Life Skills That Matter.

stephen warley

Stephen and I have kept in touch off and on since then, so when he emailed me about a topic idea for Read to Lead, one he is especially qualified to speak on, I jumped at the chance.

Over the last 17+ years, Stephen has worked as a solopreneur. It all started when he was downsized from his job (I can relate).

What he’s learned about our ever-changing world of work these last few years could fill a book. In fact, he’ll be releasing one in quarter one of next year.

In the meantime, we have the privilege of having Stephen here to help us navigate the rough spots.

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215: The 5-Step Blueprint to Getting a Seat on the Executive Team

With author Greg Layton

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I first met today’s guest just a few weeks ago via Skype. He was looking for a podcast coach and mentor, someone who could help him take his show to yet another level.

His name is Greg Layton, and I immediately liked his drive and his demeanor. I also appreciated that, when scheduling our meeting, he took the time to ask for my mailing address. What I didn’t know was that he was sending me a book. It’s the book being featured on today’s episode.

greg layton

That book is called Chief Maker: The 5 Step Blueprint for Rising Above the Pack and Getting a Seat on the Executive Team.

In it, Greg shares what they don’t teach you in business school about becoming a high-impact, Chief-level executive.

His 5-step plan is a roadmap for any senior manager who wants to rise above the politics and overload of the corporate world and master their profession.

It’s more than about securing a promotion though. It’s about taking command and becoming the Chief Executive of your life. Ready to leave your unique mark on the world? Scroll down.

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214: How to Break Free From the Trap of Success

With author Gene Hammett

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Imagine starting your day thinking you were going to close a deal that would net you $1 Million, only to see the deal fall through in the eleventh hour, costing you $3 Million.

In 2010, that very thing happened to today’s podcast guest. His name is Gene Hammett. Since that time he’s managed to not only get back on his feet but coach numerous companies and their CEOs onto the Inc. 5000.

gene hammett

He released a new book late last year called The Trap of Success: A Brutally Candid Guide to Overcoming Your Fears, Finding Significance, and Attaining Profound Success.

In it, Gene shares the stories of real people who have faced moments of choice that caused them to dig deep, find their courage, and create a life and career of meaning.

He illustrates how significance and exponential success dance together once you get past the limited thinking that got you this far—once you escape your own trap of success.

If it’s the kind of success that comes with lasting significance that you’re looking for, then you’ve come to the right place.

For a list of links and resources Gene and I discuss in this episode, simply keep scrolling.

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213: How You Can and Why You Should Consider a Sabbatical Soon

With Tencent executive and author, Ben Feder

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I believe this episode may represent the first time I’ve ever featured a memoir on the podcast.

There are so many valuable lessons contained in this book that the decision to feature it was an easy one.

ben feder

That book is written by the former CEO of Take-Two Interactive (now with Tencent). If that company sounds familiar, it may be because you or someone you know is a lover of video games. Or, it may be because my guest today helped take it from just a measly $1 Billion company to a $13 Billion one.

His name is Ben Feder, and his new book is called Take Off Your Shoes: One Man’s Journey from the Boardroom, to Bali, and Back.

In it, we follow along as Ben makes the difficult decision to step away from a hugely successful and lucrative career to go on a one-year sabbatical with his wife and children to Indonesia.

Ben says he’s not one to dole out advice, but you won’t be able to read this book without learning a great deal about what it takes to pull off taking a sabbatical. You’ll also appreciate better why you should seriously consider it.

Ready? Let’s go!

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211: How Hidden Networks Can Transform Your Life and Career

With Friend of a Friend author David Burkus

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Not many people can claim to have delivered a TED Talk that’s been viewed millions of times. Today’s guest, however, can do exactly that.

His name is David Burkus, and this episode marks his second appearance on the podcast. Here’s hoping David’s TED Talk mojo will rub off.

david burkus

His new book is called Friend of a Friend: Understanding The Hidden Networks That Can Transform Your Life and Your Career and, in it, he argues that the best way to grow your network isn’t by introducing yourself to strangers at cocktail parties, handing out business cards, or signing up for the latest online tool.

Instead, he insists you develop a better understanding of the existing network that’s already around you.

Forget the outdated advice you’ve already heard, David says. Learn how to make use of the hidden networks you already have. In his book, and in today’s episode, we attempt to help you do just that.

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