The Dan Barrett Show

Episódios

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  Transforming and Selling Businesses with Alexis Sikorsky, Part 2 21.08.2025 29min

  This week, Dan picks up with Alexis Sikorsky—entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Knight Scale Partners—for the tactical follow-through: what great private equity actually brings, how to replace yourself post-acquisition ("please chairman me"), why agility beats prediction in a world of Black Swans/"Black Dragons," and how agencies can still win as AI re-sorts the field. If you're navigating uncertainty, planning pivots, or gearing up for an exit, this continuation is packed with clear plays and hard-won context. Show Highlights What great PE actually brings: cost discipline, better people, and world-class sales—why the dream target has a weak or no sales team. [00:00:49] "Please chairman me"—why Alexis replaced himself as CEO and why being chairman can be the best job in the world. [00:02:07] Exit math that stuns: sold remaining shares for an undisclosed nine figures; two years later buyers resold for +60%, ~16× cash multiple. [00:02:36] [00:03:03] Retired, then Oxford: why he went back to school, started advising (even pro bono), and turned mistakes into a playbook. [00:03:52] Two superpowers: leadership (not management) and turning complexity into five actionable steps. [00:06:44] Triple headwind case study: clients dying, business model dying, channel dying—plus "Google is in panic." [00:11:06] Pivot playbook: keep your domain (e.g., real estate), expand geographies, diversify inbound (podcasts/LinkedIn), and add warm outbound. [00:13:28] [00:14:41] AI won't erase agencies—it will empower fewer winners (think 6,000 → 600); VCs shifting to AI-enabled efficiency. [00:15:28] Black Swans ("Black Dragons"): don't time them—build agility and expect a crisis about every decade; a leveraged-forex cautionary tale. [00:17:36] [00:18:38] War-chest rule: keep ~9 months of burn so shocks don't kill you. [00:20:14] Sci-fi as systems training: Asimov and a love letter to The Three-Body Problem (especially the brutal Book 3). [00:21:58] [00:23:33] Cashing Out: a simple method to go from small to less small—and how to speak private equity. [00:24:54] Where to find him: Knight Scale Partners (with a K), LinkedIn, and Instagram—unique name makes him easy to find. [00:26:56]   For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Alexis Sikorsky, check out the websites below:  https://www.knightscalepartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-sikorsky-consulting/?originalSubdomain=uk
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  Transforming and Selling Businesses with Alexis Sikorsky 13.08.2025 32min

  This week, Dan sits down with Alexis Sikorsky, founder of Knight Scale Partners, to unpack how to build, transform, and exit companies the smart way. Alexis shares the strategy behind "moving like a knight," a crisp 3–4 year planning window with one-month reaction time, the metrics he watches, and the story behind selling his banking software company, why he took 85% cash / 15% earn-out, and how the earn-out ended up paying more. If you want a practical playbook for scaling value without losing your mind (or your house during a crisis), this is it. Show Highlights: Why the knight? Strategy behind Knight Scale Partners—anticipate, "play with the whites," and win by moving differently. [00:03:02] The planning horizon that actually works: 3–4 years…with a one-month reaction time for pivots. [00:06:12] What to measure: start with TAM, then track LTV/CAC monthly—keep the dashboard simple. [00:11:05] Start with the founder's goal: the surprisingly universal number is $40M and why. [00:17:23] (derived from the transcript section referencing "40 million") 2008 hits: lost 75% of revenue in a day—and the seven-year grind back. [00:26:23] The deal that changed everything: 85% cash / 15% earn-out up front… [00:30:44] …and why the earn-out paid more than the cash. [00:31:10] What great PE actually brings: cost discipline and world-class sales; why "no sales team" is a PE dream. [00:32:02] Alexis' two superpowers: leadership and turning complexity into five actionable steps. [00:56:27] "Black Dragons" (a.k.a. Black Swans): build 9 months of war chest and design for agility. [00:49:56] What Alexis reads for complex thinking: The Three-Body Problem (and The Dark Forest). [00:56:49] Cashing Out: Alexis' simple method to go from ~$10M to $100M valuation; audiobook now available. [00:56:58] The Virtual C-Suite: fractional, high-caliber execs as an unfair advantage; early traction & LTV/CAC math. [01:07:03] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Alexis Sikorsky, check out the websites below:  https://www.knightscalepartners.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-sikorsky-consulting/?originalSubdomain=uk   
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  Connection Is the New Currency with Jason Yeh, Part 2 25.06.2025 39min

  This week, Dan picks up right where he left off with Jason Yeh, founder of Scaling Freedom, for a rapid-fire dive into the real-world side of AI. Jason shares battle-tested frameworks for deciding when to use AI (and when a simple script is smarter), explains why human connection will matter even more as automation spreads, and gets personal about parenting, education, and staying nimble in a market that changes every week. If you're wondering how to weave clarity, technology, and meaning together—without losing the human spark—this conversation is for you.   Show Highlights Treat AI like a smart "drunk intern"—speak out loud, let it interview you, and watch the prompts improve [00:00:31] Build a custom GPT that turns raw thoughts into perfectly engineered prompts [00:02:37] "AI on a bad system just scales the mess"—why process always comes before tooling [00:04:36] The hidden gold mine of manual data entry and how scraping invoices unlocks insights [00:06:51] Jason's 4-point litmus test for any AI project: Painful · Existing process · High impact · Strong data [00:09:56] Planner vs. Solver: use one "conductor" agent plus narrow specialists for higher accuracy [00:17:13]  Klarna's chatbot fiasco & the lesson: some moments demand a human, not a bot [00:18:28] "Connection is the new currency"—brands that stay human will win customer loyalty [00:23:09] Staying nimble: why Jason refuses to ossify into a single product in a hype-driven market [00:24:45] The next frontier: AI-personalized education and raising kids who still think critically [00:28:12] Using Perplexity for curiosity walks and co-creating bedtime stories with your kids [00:32:37] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Jason Yeh, check out the websites below:  https://scalingfreedom.ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonjyeh/  
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  Connection Is the New Currency with Jason Yeh, Part 1 17.06.2025 37min

  This week, Dan sits down with Jason Yeh, founder of Scaling Freedom, to talk about identity, resilience, and rediscovering purpose through AI. Jason opens up about going against expectations, getting laid off (again), and why community has become the most vital part of his entrepreneurial path. This is a personal and practical conversation on how Jason helps business owners bring AI into their work in ways that are human, useful, and deeply thoughtful — including a clear "Three A's" framework you won't want to miss. Don't miss this if you've ever wondered how to connect clarity, technology, and meaning — especially in times of uncertainty. Show Highlights: Why Jason asks "What do you like to do?" instead of "What do you do?" [02:25] Growing up under pressure — and choosing his own way anyway [06:00] The defining moment: delaying graduation for a surprise study abroad [13:07] How getting laid off (again) led Jason to AI and entrepreneurship [17:24] The power of hiking, reflection, and reconnecting with community [20:13] Jason's clear and useful "3 A's" framework for AI: Automation, Answers, Advice [30:00] His #1 tip to beat prompt paralysis — "Have AI interview you" [34:14] Why connection is core to Jason's business philosophy [27:22] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Jason Yeh, check out the websites below:  https://scalingfreedom.ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonjyeh/  
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  Being Happy, Agentic and Effective with Eric Nehrlich, Part 2 04.06.2025 33min

  Continuing from last week, today we discuss the fascinating ideas from Eric Nehrlich's book, challenging how we perceive problems and revealing the empowering potential of our choices.  This episode takes you through Eric's unique journey from the corporate world to a coaching career, where he blends varied methodologies for life-changing results. Learn how to confront personal fears and make decisions that truly matter. Don't miss out on the chance to gain insights that can redefine your approach to both personal and professional challenges. Show Highlights: This is the only thing you can control [03:16] What is the meaning of accepting your reality? [09:49] Would you want your child to stay at a job he hates? [12:36] Discover a holistic approach towards coaching [14:31] Learn about Eric's journey of coaching executives [19:52] Discover the real job of a coach [20:04] What are the unconscious fears that hold leaders back? [21:56] This is how you can get over your fears [25:32] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Eric Nehrlich, check out the websites below:  https://www.toomanytrees.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehrlich https://www.toomanytrees.com/book  
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  Being Happy, Agentic and Effective with Eric Nehrlich, Part 1 23.05.2025 33min

  Episode 023 - Being Happy, Agentic and Effective with Eric Nehrlich, Part 1 In this episode, Dan sits down with the fascinating Eric Nehrlich. Eric's journey from an esteemed position at Google to becoming a sought-after executive coach is nothing short of inspiring.  Discover the rare blend of skills that make Eric a standout in both business strategy and personal development. Learn how a tragic accident prompted a career shift that now helps others reach their peak potential.  Tune in to hear Eric's intriguing story and gain insights that just might change the way you approach your career and life. Show Highlights: Discover how Eric secured a job at Google [04:57] How are business, strategy, and leadership connected? [10:22] Discover the superpower of simplifying things for others [13:01] Learn Eric's journey of getting into executive coaching [14:43] Do you know incremental and non-incremental growth? [18:12] This is how you bring in innovation [20:11] Are you stuck in a cycle of limiting beliefs? [21:56] What drives bold career moves? [27:50] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Eric Nehrlich, check out the websites below:  https://www.toomanytrees.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehrlich https://www.toomanytrees.com/book
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  Finding Your Grit with Richard Walsh, Part 2 14.05.2025 25min

  Continuing from last week, today's episode features the dynamic Richard Walsh, a seasoned marketing agency owner turned business coach. Imagine finding an extra $100,000 in profit sitting right there in your business—Richard knows where to look without extra marketing expenses.  He will offer practical strategies on juggling clients and feeling stuck as business owners. We'll explore compelling insights from his journey and how he's reshaping the way we think about success.  Curious to learn how to make your business work for you? This is an episode you won't want to miss. Show Highlights: Do you feel stuck as a business owner? [01:43] This is the mindset you must have to achieve more [03:42] How does Richard find inherent money inside businesses? [07:44] Are you utilizing these business analysis tools? [08:43] Is a business all about sales? [11:22] The role and importance of accountability [15:06] Explore the world of Sharpen the Spear Coaching [17:50] This can be your key to increased profits and revenue [19:43] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Richard Walsh, check out the websites below:  https://sharpenthespearcoaching.com/
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  Finding Your Grit with Richard Walsh, Part 1 07.05.2025 21min

  This week, we're featuring Richard Walsh, the mastermind behind Sharpen the Spear Coaching. With a wealth of experiences to draw from, Richard helps small business owners make significant changes without spending any extra money.  His unique approach combines a warrior's mentality with smart business strategies, making this conversation an insightful experience for entrepreneurs at any stage.  Tune in as we explore the art of balancing personal grit with professional acumen, guided by Richard's fascinating journey and seasoned advice. Show Highlights: Discover what it takes to be a coach [02:18] Learn about the concept of sharpening the spear [03:51] What do martial arts teach about running a business? [05:48] Discover Richard's journey of resilience and reinvention [07:47] How are fitness and leadership connected? [12:11] Learn the importance of building routines and methods [14:18] This is how you can alleviate anxiety [15:20] The most common mistake business owners make [17:05] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Richard Walsh, check out the websites below:  https://sharpenthespearcoaching.com/  
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  Making Powerful Decisions with Dr. Alan Barnard, Part 2 30.04.2025 26min

  Continuing the conversation from last week, host Dan Barret and guest Dr. Alan Barnard explore how setting decision rules in advance can revolutionize your approach to business strategy.  Dr. Barnard talks about the concept of "digital twins" and how they can safely test decision-making strategies. Discover how AI is reshaping the way we make decisions, allowing us to partner with technology in new and exciting ways.  Join us to learn more about real-world crises and how to prepare for unforeseen, high-impact events.  Show Highlights: Do you know about the designed decisions? [00:59] The importance of setting decision parameters ahead of time [01:10] Discover the work of Nassim Taleb on decision-making [04:12] What is the role of digital twins in decision-making [07:03] Learn about the evolution of decision-making processes [08:52] This is what you need to know about TOC and Cyanfin [16:06] Discover the three levels of complexities [17:03] Do you know the importance of trusting people? [20:48] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Dr. Alan Bernard, check out the websites below:  https://harmonyapps.com/ https://dralanbarnard.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/DrAlanBarnard
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  Making Powerful Decisions with Dr. Alan Barnard, Part 1 23.04.2025 28min

  Today, we explore the world of decision-making with our guest, Dr. Alan Barnard. Dan recounts their memorable meeting and unveils Dr. Barnard's fascinating journey from a young entrepreneur in South Africa to a leading decision scientist.  Discover why we often make suboptimal choices and the innovative tools developed to change that narrative. With discussions around digital twins and the balance between intuition and methodical thinking, this episode offers fresh insights into mastering decisions.  Tune in for perspectives that could reshape how you approach your everyday choices. Show Highlights: The importance of recognizing your professional purpose [04:20] This is what all successful people have in common [05:26] Why do people make bad decisions repeatedly? [06:32] How do our emotions impact our decisions? [10:40] Learn to deal with the fear of loss [12:26] Discover the use of a developed intuition [13:51] How do you define intelligence? [19:00] Discover the concept of digital twins for better decisions [22:07] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Dr. Alan Bernard, check out the websites below:  https://harmonyapps.com/ https://dralanbarnard.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/DrAlanBarnard  
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  America, The Roman Empire and Fiscal Policy with Former Comptroller General of the United States, David M. Walker 16.04.2025 22min

  Today, Dan sits down with David M. Walker, a distinguished public servant who has been at the forefront of U.S. fiscal policy. Walker highlights the lessons history offers us, drawing comparisons between the fall of Rome and today's fiscal challenges.  Discover why today's youth may not feel drawn to public service and the critical role they could play in ensuring a sustainable future.  This conversation goes beyond the typical political discourse, offering a refreshing take on how we can engage constructively in the public sphere.  Show Highlights: The lessons from history every American should learn [04:21] Are economic challenges rooted in psychology? [06:16] Discover the impacts of having a Tunnel vision [06:54] Why aren't today's youth choosing government roles? [09:13] This is why the government should be more future-focused and results-oriented [12:11] The need to be aware of the fiscal responsibility issue [13:54] How does point-scoring shape our political discourse? [16:34] How can we make space for constructive disagreements? [19:48] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/
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  Building a Values-Focused Business with Jonathan Rivera, Part 2 09.04.2025 22min

  Continuing the conversation from last week, Jonathan Rivera opens up about his journey in re-evaluating client choices to protect his peace and prioritize life's true joys.  Discover how crafting a business that supports your lifestyle can lead to unexpected freedom and happiness. If you're curious about redefining success on your own terms, this episode is for you.  Show Highlights: Discover the secret to thriving partnerships [01:49] How do you identify yourself with your business? [07:27] How can audiobooks & podcasts transform your career? [08:42]  Do you get satisfaction from your business? [09:03] What happens when your life partner becomes your business partner? [10:03] Can you separate your business from your personal life? [11:27] Learn about the potential future of podcasts [16:26] Doing this will definitely run your business [17:15] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Jonathan Rivera, check out the websites below: https://thepodcastfactory.com/
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  Building a Values-Focused Business with Jonathan Rivera, Part 1 02.04.2025 23min

  In this episode, Dan chats with Jonathan Rivera from the Podcast Factory, a friend he's known for ages. Jonathan talks about his journey from the ups and downs in real estate to finding his groove in the podcast scene. He opens up about how losing his father-in-law made him rethink what's important in life, shifting his focus from just making money to cherishing family and choosing the right people to work with. This conversation is packed with real insights on building a life that means something beyond just the numbers. It might just get you thinking differently about your own path. Show Highlights: Discover the keys to creating a life and career you love [01:28] How does the death of a loved one impact you? [03:02] Learn about Jonathan's compelling story of resilience [06:48] How has the podcast landscape changed over the years? [10:01] This is how your relationship with your business evolves [12:39] Are you chasing numbers or satisfaction? [15:05] The importance of having a purposeful business [16:15] Discover how Jonathan is optimizing peace in life [21:22] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/ To learn more about Jonathan Rivera, check out the websites below: https://thepodcastfactory.com/
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  Talking About Grief and Resilience with Mason Sawyer, Part 2 26.03.2025 22min

  Continuing the conversation with Mason Sawyer, today, we explore how authentic vulnerability can lead to a more meaningful connection with others. Mason bravely recounts his extraordinary journey from hitting rock bottom to discovering a newfound purpose in life. His story unfolds with unexpected twists that might just make you rethink your own approach to life's challenges.  Tune in to discover the power of honest public speaking and meaningful connection. Show Highlights: How can a father's courage impact his child? [04:06] This is the gift that grief comes with [05:24] How to stop caring about external judgments? [06:04] Discover how grief affects our everyday interactions [06:39] The path of building purpose after a loss [08:26] Learn how sharing grief can bring people together [11:08] Mason's view on opting for public speaking as a career [13:08] What does a competent therapist do to build connection? [15:55] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Mason Sawyer, check out the below websites: https://www.instagram.com/10ninetyrule/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the10ninety
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  Talking About Grief and Resilience with Mason Sawyer, Part 1 19.03.2025 23min

  Hello, everyone. Today, we're talking about coping with loss and grief with Mason Sawyer, host of the 10ninety podcast. Mason will share with us the life-shattering story of losing his family members in a tragic accident.  Mason's story isn't just about loss; it's about finding the courage to speak the unspeakable and what happens when you do. Dan and Mason explore the importance of connecting with others and opening up about your grief.   Tune in and discover why this conversation might change the way you see grief and resilience. Show Highlights: How do you turn tragedy into a source of strength? [02:05] What do people get wrong about grief? [04:00] Learn why talking about your loss is necessary [05:54] Do you know about the stages of grief? [07:12] Navigating the loss of control over our emotions [08:25] This is the biggest advantage of going to therapy [11:41] Learn why running from the pain will not help [15:02] How does community building help with grief? [17:52] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Mason Sawyer, check out the below websites: https://www.instagram.com/10ninetyrule/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the10ninety
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  Innovation, Ideas, and The Science of Business with Nick Jain, Part 2 12.03.2025 22min

  Continuing the conversation with Nick Jain, the CEO of IdeaScale, Dan explores the areas of rapid learning and problem-solving. Learn about harnessing the power of AI to reshape business processes and inspire innovation. Nick reveals insights into overcoming the challenges of technological abstraction and shares practical strategies that could redefine your approach to business.  Tune in for an insightful discussion on business growth and creativity. Show Highlights: Explore the ways to manage your learning process [00:56] The importance of taking structured courses [02:28] Learn about utilizing AI for marketing and social media [05:00] This AI tool will help you access ideas [06:21] Discover the quiet crisis of the marketing industry [09:18] Addressing the challenge of abstraction [11:29] How does statistical analysis help with algorithms [13:42] Where can you get this free management software? [14:35] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Nick Jain, check out the below websites: http://contenthurricane.com/ http://nickjain.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickjain/ 
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  Innovation, Ideas, and The Science of Business with Nick Jain, Part 1 05.03.2025 20min

  In today's episode, we have Nick Jain, the CEO of IdeaScale, as our guest. Dan and Nick talk about the cultivation of great ideas and opportunities within organizations.  This episode will help you navigate the complexities of business growth and create an idea-rich culture. You will learn how IdeaScale operates like TikTok, but with a slight difference helping organizations foster the brightest ideas.  Join us for a new perspective on empowering creativity! Show Highlights: Do you know about this social network of ideas? [03:06] Where do the great ideas come from? [05:39] Learn to sort the good ideas from the bad ones [06:53] A new perspective on post-war Japanese revival [07:33] The importance of a progressive work culture [08:44] Discover this key trait of successful organizations [09:34] The need to separate idea quality from individual quality [13:01] Can a background in physics help you in business? [15:45] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Nick Jain, check out the below websites: http://contenthurricane.com/ http://nickjain.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickjain/ 
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  Inside The Mind of a World-Class Pastry Chef with Chef Kim Hoàng Wood 26.02.2025 37min

  In this episode, we have the incredible Chef Kim Hoàng Wood, the creative force behind Le Bánh Patisserie in Connecticut. Chef Kim shares her journey from almost becoming an accountant to mastering French pastries. Discover what it takes to run a business that's more about deep self-expression and uncompromising quality.  Get ready to be inspired by Chef Kim's dedication and passion. Show Highlights: The journey from being an accountant to a pastry chef [04:38] Learn the importance of taking a start [09:58] Do you know about the delicateness of French pastries? [11:24] The difference between American and French desserts [12:52] How does your artistic vision lead you? [13:57] Is competition a good thing? [18:35] Learn more about running a pastry business [28:39] This is what you need to know about team spirit [30:19] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Chef Kim, check out the below websites: https://www.lebanh.com/   https://www.instagram.com/lebanh.patisserie 
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  Fixing Stress and Burnout with Victoria Mensch, Part 2 19.02.2025 27min

  Continuing the conversation with Victoria Mensch, we will talk about managing stress and burnout today. Discover how simple visualization techniques and physical actions can help you feel more at ease, even in the most demanding roles.  You will get to know the importance of self-leadership, the evolving workplace dynamics, and what leaders can do to foster a healthier work environment.  Don't miss this episode if you are looking for a happier work life. Show Highlights: How do visualization techniques help with stress? [00:48] Learn to find your happy place in the mind [02:37] Do you know about self-leadership? [07:52] What does the leadership need to realize? [12:17] The culture of building everything around control [13:31] The importance of appreciation for employees [14:22] Why should a leader be emotionally intelligent? [17:42] Discover practical tools for your personal development [19:40] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Victoria Mensch, check out the below websites: https://svexecutive.academy https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-mensch/
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  Fixing Stress and Burnout with Victoria Mensch, Part 1 12.02.2025 24min

  In today's episode, Dan is joined by Victoria Mensch, a pioneer in organizational psychology who specializes in turning burnout into genuine well-being.  We will talk about one of the most persistent myths in business: the idea that success guarantees happiness. You will find new perspectives on the general lack of fulfillment and how to overcome that.  This is a conversation you won't want to miss, especially if you're ready to rethink what success truly means. Show Highlights: How often are successful people happy? [03:25] Learn how flourishing is multidimensional [07:05] Is happiness a state or an action? [09:14] Why is burnout considered a threat to productivity? [10:16] Learn to understand how you react to stress [13:07] How our survival mechanism is useful? [14:02] These stress management techniques can help [16:33] Learn how the mind and body work together [23:34] For more updates and my weekly newsletter, hop over to https://betterquestions.co/. To learn more about Victoria Mensch, check out the below websites: https://svexecutive.academy https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-mensch/