Today, we dive into the world of leadership with Aaron Trahan, a performance coach who transformed his own leadership style from a rocky start to a thriving practice. Aaron emphasizes that becoming a great leader is not a natural talent; it requires dedication, intentionality, and the willingness to learn. He shares his unique "FOCA" method, which helps leaders receive feedback, take ownership, and ultimately take action to improve. We also discuss the critical importance of recognizing blind spots, which can be as detrimental to a leader as cigarettes are to health. Join us for insights that promise to elevate your leadership game and foster a culture of growth in your teams! Leadership isn't something you're born with; it's a skill you can develop. In this enlightening discussion, Aaron Trahan shares his personal journey from being an inexperienced leader to becoming a sought-after performance coach. He emphasizes that leadership requires preparation, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning. Aaron introduces his 'three out' formula: out-prepare, out-work, and out-learn others around you. It’s all about showing up ready, being the hardest worker in the room, and constantly seeking knowledge. This formula helped him transform his own leadership style and can do the same for you. Aaron’s candid reflections on his early leadership challenges reveal that many of us face similar hurdles. He highlights the importance of humility and the willingness to receive feedback, especially the tough kind that can shine a light on our blind spots. Blind spots, he notes, can be as harmful as cigarettes to our leadership effectiveness. He encourages leaders to actively seek feedback from their peers and teams, understanding that this feedback is crucial to their growth and success. In a nutshell, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership abilities. With Aaron's practical tips and relatable anecdotes, listeners can walk away with actionable strategies to become more effective leaders in their own right. So, if you're ready to level up your leadership game, tune in and take notes!

Takeaways:

1. Leadership is a skill that requires intentionality and hard work; it doesn't just happen.
2. Receiving constructive feedback is essential for leaders to identify and address their blind spots.
3. To become a great leader, one must out-prepare, outwork, and outlearn everyone else around them.
4. Understanding that people are the most crucial asset in any organization is key to effective leadership.
5. A strong leader helps their team reach their highest potential, creating a healthier work environment.
6. Continuous learning and feedback cycles are vital for a leader's growth and the team's success.

https://performancemindsetcoaching.co

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarontrahancoaching/

www.leaptoyoursuccess.com

www.jaclynstrominger.com

Jaclyn Strominger welcomes Miki Anderson to the Unstoppable Success podcast, where they dive into the crucial role of people in organizational success. Miki emphasizes that while technology and processes are important, it’s the clarity of intent and cultural standards that truly make a difference. She shares insights on how leaders can cultivate measurable alignment and foster environments where teams can thrive, underscoring that motivation alone doesn’t guarantee results. Together, they explore the need for a strong foundation of clear values and behaviors to ensure that everyone in the organization is aligned and empowered. Tune in to discover how to turn culture into your competitive advantage and achieve unstoppable success! Jaclyn Strominger welcomes listeners to another inspiring episode of the Unstoppable Success Podcast, where she is joined by Miki Anderson, a dynamic leader in organizational culture and executive alignment. Miki shares her journey from running marketing agencies to establishing her consulting firm, Loyalty Ops. Her work focuses on helping organizations transform their culture into a competitive advantage by aligning teams around clear intents and cultural standards. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful commentary, they explore the importance of understanding people in the workplace, emphasizing that technology alone cannot solve organizational challenges. Miki illustrates the concept of 'clear intent'—four essential questions every team member should know—and how this clarity can drive performance and accountability. The discussion shifts to the role of AI in today’s businesses, highlighting its potential and pitfalls. Miki stresses that while AI is a powerful tool, it requires human insight and alignment to be effective. The episode concludes with practical advice for leaders on fostering a culture that embraces both technology and the human element, ensuring that their organizations can achieve unstoppable success.

Takeaways:

1. Motivation may fade, but consistency and a strong work ethic are key to lasting success.
2. Understanding your organization's culture and values is essential for effective decision-making and alignment.
3. AI tools can amplify efforts, but human input and clarity are crucial for successful implementation.
4. Leaders must first focus on self-awareness before leading their teams and organizations effectively.
5. Cultural standards should translate core values into actionable behaviors for everyone in the organization.
6. Transformational growth happens when organizations prioritize people before processes and technology.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. loyaltyops.com
2. https://www.linkedin.com/in/heymickeyanderson/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Loyalty Ops
2. ChatGPT
3. Claude
4. Anthropic

www.leaptoyoursuccess.com

Unstoppable Success dives deep into the essence of customer experience with the insightful Katie Mares, who has transitioned from a secure corporate role to a passionate advocate for creating meaningful guest interactions. The discussion unfolds with Katie sharing her pivotal moment while addressing a large audience, which ignited her journey towards redefining customer engagement. As we explore the lost art of customer interaction, Katie emphasizes that true success in business hinges on how customers feel during their experience—not just the products or prices offered. Her insights challenge us to rethink our approach to customer service, urging us to prioritize genuine connections over transactional relationships. With a blend of humor and practicality, we dissect the gap between expectation and reality in today's fast-paced, technology-driven environment, revealing how organizations can bridge this divide to foster loyalty and trust. Throughout our conversation, we touch upon the critical role of culture in shaping customer experiences. Katie advocates for empowering employees to connect authentically with customers, highlighting that the happiest customers often derive their satisfaction from engaged and motivated staff. We exchange anecdotes about the retail experience, where the absence of personal connection can lead to missed opportunities for both the customer and the business. By fostering a culture that prioritizes connection and understanding, organizations can not only improve customer satisfaction but also enhance employee morale and retention. Finally, we delve into practical strategies for businesses looking to elevate their customer experience. Katie shares her 'five Ps' framework, which provides a roadmap for creating a customer-centric culture. From establishing a clear brand promise to ensuring consistent processes and practices, her approach equips businesses with the tools to thrive in a competitive landscape. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that encourages not just a shift in strategy, but a revolution in how we perceive and enact customer experience—because at the heart of unstoppable success lies the art of connection.

Takeaways:

1. The guest experience is crucial; it's not just about service but how customers feel throughout the interaction.
2. Katie emphasizes that 79% of consumers choose businesses based on the experience they receive, not just the product or price.
3. Creating a culture of empowerment within a company leads to better customer service and happier employees.
4. Zappos exemplifies a strong employee culture by offering incentives for employees to leave if they don't align with company values.
5. The key to customer loyalty lies in making them feel valued and connecting on a human level during every interaction.
6. Understanding that customer experience starts before the purchase helps businesses create lasting relationships with clients.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. https://katiemares.com

Be a guest on Unstoppable Success. Apply Today https://2fb0-jaclyn.systeme.io/podcast

Grab a Complimentary Strategy Session with Jaclyn today! https://leaptoyoursuccess.com/contact/

Welcome to 2026, where we're flipping the script on how we approach success and fulfillment! In this episode, I dive into the importance of aligning our goals with our true values, rather than just hustling for the sake of it. We often find ourselves busy but unfulfilled, so let’s focus on doing what truly matters with intention and purpose. I also share my personal journey of discovering my superpower and how clarity in our vision can lead to greater success. Plus, don't miss out on my gifted Vision Mission workbook, designed to help you create a clear path for your year ahead! Welcome to a fresh start in 2026, where we dive into the importance of aligning your goals with your true purpose. This year, it’s not just about doing more; it’s about doing what truly matters. We’ll explore how misalignment can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction, even when success seems to be on the surface. I’ll share my own journey from feeling accomplished yet unsettled to discovering the clarity needed to thrive. Plus, don’t miss the chance to grab our Vision Mission Workbook, a handy tool designed to help you define your vision and mission for the year ahead. Let's make 2026 the year of intentional leadership and meaningful connections! A vibrant new year is upon us, and with it comes the promise of change and growth. Jaclyn Strominger kicks off 2026 with an invigorating live podcast format, inviting listeners to engage in real-time discussions. This shift marks a significant evolution in the Unstoppable Success podcast, allowing for dynamic interactions every Tuesday. Jaclyn dives deep into the often tumultuous feelings that accompany the onset of a new year. She reflects on the common struggles of unfulfilled ambitions and the sense of being out of alignment with personal values. Drawing from her own experiences, she highlights the importance of aligning goals with one's true self. The episode emphasizes that success isn't merely about ticking off accomplishments on a list; it’s about intentional living and helping others rise as well. In her trademark semi-formal style, Jaclyn deftly navigates the concept of setting SMART goals, urging listeners to tailor these benchmarks to their unique circumstances. She cleverly suggests that it’s less about ‘doing more’ and more about ‘doing what matters’. This episode resonates with anyone feeling adrift or burned out, as Jaclyn candidly addresses how true fulfillment comes from alignment with our passions. She shares her own journey of rediscovering her superpowers and urges listeners to explore theirs. By the end of the episode, Jaclyn provides a practical tool: the Vision Mission workbook, designed to help listeners clarify their goals and intentions for 2026. It’s a call to action, one that encourages self-reflection and purposeful planning, making this episode a must-listen for those ready to leap into their best year yet.

Takeaways:

1. In 2026, focus on doing what truly matters with purpose, integrity, and intention.
2. Burnout is caused by misalignment in your work, not simply hard work itself.
3. Crafting a clear vision and mission is essential for intentional leadership and success.
4. Building deeper connections leads to thriving partnerships, not just transactional relationships.
5. Your vibe attracts your tribe, so show up energetically and positively every single day.
6. Taking time for self-reflection and clarity is crucial for achieving your goals in 2026.

Links referenced in this episode:

Today, we dive into the world of personal branding and thought leadership with the incredible Kelly Schuknecht. Kelly, a marketing strategist and founder of Two Mile High Marketing, shares her insights on how entrepreneurs and business leaders can elevate their visibility and establish themselves as industry experts. We discuss practical strategies for positioning oneself as a thought leader, including writing books, securing speaking engagements, and the power of leveraging podcasts. Kelly's journey from being the “person behind the person” to running her own successful business is both inspiring and relatable. So grab a seat and get ready to unlock the secrets to becoming the go-to expert in your field!

The conversation kicks off with a warm welcome to our listeners, setting the stage for an engaging dialogue about success and visibility in business. We introduce Kelly, a marketing strategist and thought leadership expert, whose mission is to help entrepreneurs and business leaders amplify their voices and establish themselves as industry authorities. Kelly shares her journey from being an unsung hero behind the scenes in various companies to becoming an entrepreneur in her own right. She discusses the importance of personal branding and visibility strategies that drive business growth, focusing on how she assists clients in positioning themselves as thought leaders. The episode dives deep into practical examples and anecdotes from Kelly's career, illustrating how strategic marketing can transform an expert's presence in their field. By the end of the episode, listeners gain valuable insights into building their own thought leadership platforms and the actionable steps they can take to elevate their visibility.

Takeaways:

• Building a personal brand is essential for establishing yourself as a thought leader in your industry.
• Helping clients amplify their voices can lead to significant business growth and visibility in their marketplaces.
• The journey to becoming a recognized expert often begins with sharing valuable content on social platforms like LinkedIn.
• Developing a one-sheet and preparing presentation briefs are vital steps for aspiring public speakers to succeed.

Links referenced in this episode:

• 2milehighmarketing.com
• speakerhub.com
• linkedin.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Two Mile High Marketing
• Speaker Hub

Today, we're diving into a powerful conversation with Nicky Billou, a passionate advocate for entrepreneurs and their journey in sales. Nicky believes that selling is not just a transaction; it's an act of love and service, helping others solve their problems. He shares his inspiring backstory as an immigrant from Iran, highlighting how his father's unwavering belief in people shaped his approach to business and life. We discuss the importance of leading with heart and believing in others, emphasizing that real success comes from genuinely caring about those we serve. If you're ready to transform your perspective on sales and unlock your potential, this episode is a must-listen!

The conversation with Nicky Billou dives deeply into the essence of entrepreneurship and the heart of sales. Nicky, a seasoned podcast host and entrepreneur, begins by sharing his unique journey from Iran to Canada, highlighting the sacrifices his parents made for a better life. His father, a profound influence in his life, instilled in him the values of compassion and service, which he believes are the cornerstones of successful sales. Throughout the episode, Nicky emphasizes that selling is not merely about transactions but about helping people solve their problems. He advocates for a heart-centered approach to selling, where the focus is on the client’s needs rather than the salesperson’s commission. This philosophy transforms sales from a fear-driven activity into one of deep love and service, encouraging entrepreneurs to embrace their role as helpers and problem-solvers in their communities.

Furthermore, Nicky recounts inspiring stories from his coaching experiences, particularly one about a personal trainer who shifted his focus from monetary gain to genuinely helping clients. This transformation led to a remarkable surge in his business, illustrating that when entrepreneurs lead with love and commitment to their clients, success naturally follows. Nicky's insights challenge the traditional perception of sales, urging listeners to redefine their understanding and approach to selling. He leaves us with a powerful reminder that every entrepreneur can be a beacon of hope and support, enhancing lives while achieving their business goals.

Listeners are encouraged to connect with Nicky, whether through his podcast or his coaching services, as he offers valuable resources for those looking to elevate their business while staying true to their values. Overall, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to be an entrepreneur, urging us to embrace our roles as advocates for others while pursuing our passions and aspirations.

Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurs are society's greatest heroes and helping them embrace sales can transform lives.
• Freedom is essential for entrepreneurs, as it fosters creativity, expression, and problem-solving.
• Leading with love and believing in people can be a competitive advantage in business.
• Sales is fundamentally about helping others; if you focus on their needs, success will follow.
• Choosing to help the right people, not just anyone, leads to more fulfilling and successful outcomes.
• A true sales approach involves understanding objections and guiding clients towards their own success.

Links referenced in this episode:

• eastcircleacademy.com/appointment
• thoughtleaderrevolution.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Thought Leader Revolution
• MasterCard

Connections are the cornerstone of unstoppable success, and in today's conversation, we dive deep into this vital theme with the remarkable Zelda Greenberg. As an entrepreneur, realtor, author, and podcast host, Zelda has spent over three decades mastering the art of turning introductions into opportunities. She emphasizes that meaningful, authentic connections fuel not just business, but personal growth as well. We discuss practical strategies for nurturing relationships, the importance of genuine follow-ups, and even how to effectively categorize your contacts for maximum impact. Join us as we explore how to make connections that truly matter and the transformative power they hold in our lives and businesses.

Today, we dive into the vital theme of connections and how they can fuel unstoppable success. Our guest, Zelda Greenberg, shares her wealth of experience as an entrepreneur, realtor, author, and podcast host, emphasizing that authentic relationships are the cornerstone of any thriving business. Zelda passionately believes that turning introductions into opportunities is key, and she provides practical tips on how to nurture these connections effectively. From the importance of thoughtful follow-ups to organizing your contacts strategically, we cover it all. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's explore how building genuine relationships can elevate both your personal and professional life.

In this lively episode of Unstoppable Success, Jaclyn Strominger and Zelda Greenberg explore the art of networking and building authentic connections. Zelda, an accomplished entrepreneur and realtor, shares her personal journey, revealing how her extensive network became the cornerstone of her successful career. She emphasizes that the essence of networking goes beyond mere exchanges; it's about fostering relationships that can lead to referrals and opportunities over time. With engaging anecdotes, Zelda illustrates how connections can be long-lasting and fruitful, often revealing unexpected paths to success.

As the conversation unfolds, Zelda introduces her unique methodology for making meaningful connections. From gathering business cards at networking events to leveraging technology for follow-ups, she shares practical tips that listeners can apply immediately. Zelda believes that nurturing relationships is key, encouraging listeners to reach out with personalized messages, whether through texts, emails, or even videos. She also highlights the importance of creating your own networking events, which allow for relaxed and genuine interactions, devoid of the usual sales pressure. This approach not only helps build rapport but also fosters a sense of community among participants, making networking a more enjoyable experience.

Towards the end of the episode, Jaclyn and Zelda discuss strategies for effective networking, stressing the importance of being prepared and actively listening. They challenge listeners to shift their mindset from transactional to relational, focusing on how they can offer value to others. This refreshing perspective on networking serves as a reminder that true success is built on the foundation of strong, authentic connections. With practical advice and heartfelt insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to enhance their networking game and cultivate a thriving support network.

Takeaways:

• In business, authentic connections are essential as they lead to referrals and opportunities.
• Nurturing relationships takes time and effort; it’s about genuinely caring for others.
• Follow-up after meeting someone is crucial; it separates successful networking from casual encounters.
• Creating your own events can foster deeper connections and open doors to new opportunities.
• Using business cards effectively and following up with personalized messages is key to success.
• Listening more than talking can...

Today, we dive deep into the world of career empowerment with our extraordinary guest, Rosie Zilinskas. As a career empowerment expert and founder of "No Woman Left Behind," Rosie shares invaluable insights on how women can articulate their accomplishments and advocate for themselves in the corporate realm. We discuss the crucial difference between being boastful and effectively communicating your impact, which can be the key to unlocking new opportunities. Rosie emphasizes the importance of knowing your core values and how they align with your career goals. Join us as we explore practical steps to build confidence, network effectively, and ultimately campaign for your own success in the workplace. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this empowering conversation!

Rosie Zilinskas, a career empowerment expert, joins me today to discuss the pivotal role that self-promotion plays in career advancement, especially for women in the corporate world. With over 30 years of experience, Rosie emphasizes the importance of articulating one's accomplishments in a way that aligns with the needs and goals of the organization. She shares her insights on how many women hold themselves back, often due to a lack of confidence in expressing their skills and the value they bring. Rosie encourages listeners to recognize that promoting oneself is not boastful; rather, it's about showcasing one's contributions and problem-solving abilities to elevate their professional presence.

Throughout our conversation, Rosie introduces her concept of the 'story vault,' a tool she uses to help clients break down their achievements into digestible narratives that highlight their impact. This method aids individuals in preparing for crucial conversations with managers about promotions or raises. She explains that the ability to articulate one's value is essential in closing the advancement gap between men and women in leadership roles. We also touch upon the significance of understanding core values and how aligning personal beliefs with company culture can enhance job satisfaction and career growth.

The episode wraps up with practical advice for listeners, including the necessity of networking and seeking mentorship from senior leaders. Rosie urges everyone to take actionable steps to advocate for their career ambitions, illustrating that confidence and career success are intertwined processes. If you’re eager to break through barriers and own your narrative in the workplace, Rosie’s expertise could be your game-changer.

Takeaways:

• Many women struggle to articulate their skills and achievements, leading to missed promotions and raises.
• Articulating accomplishments is different from being boastful; it helps demonstrate value and impact.
• Knowing your core values is essential for career success and ensuring alignment with your organization.
• Building confidence is a journey that involves preparation, self-discovery, and understanding one's own value.
• Networking with senior leaders can provide valuable insights and open doors for career advancement opportunities.
• Regularly seeking feedback from peers helps identify strengths and areas for improvement in one's career path.

Links referenced in this episode:

• noWomanLeftbehind.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• no Woman Left Behind
• Dress for Success