Breakfast Leadership Show
The Breakfast Leadership Show, hosted by leadership consultant and burnout expert Michael D. Levitt, is a globally ranked leadership podcast exploring how executives build stronger organizations, better leadership systems, and healthier workplace cultures.
Each episode features conversations with founders, executives, and industry experts on topics such as leadership operating systems, leadership decision making, executive leadership consulting, organizational leadership systems, and leadership burnout prevention.
Listeners gain practical insight into how leadership teams improve performance, reduce burnout, and design the structures that drive sustainable growth. The show covers leadership strategy, workplace culture, decision clarity for leadership teams, leadership infrastructure, and the systems that help organizations operate at a higher level.
With actionable lessons drawn from real executive experience, the Breakfast Leadership Show helps leaders move beyond management tactics and focus on building high-performance leadership systems that scale.
Interested in being a guest on the show?
Visit: https://BreakfastLeadership.com/Podcast
Note: Some episodes may include sponsored guest appearances. In those cases, guests may have provided financial compensation to participate in the podcast.
The Breakfast Leadership Show, hosted by leadership consultant and burnout expert Michael D. Levitt, is a globally ranked leadership podcast exploring how executives build stronger organizations, better leadership systems, and healthier workplace cultures.
Each episode features conversations with founders, executives, and industry experts on topics such as leadership operating systems, leadership decision making, executive leadership consulting, organizational leadership systems, and leadership burnout prevention.
Listeners gain practical insight into how leadership teams improve performance, reduce burnout, and design the structures that drive sustainable growth. The show covers leadership strategy, workplace culture, decision clarity for leadership teams, leadership infrastructure, and the systems that help organizations operate at a higher level.
With actionable lessons drawn from real executive experience, the Breakfast Leadership Show helps leaders move beyond management tactics and focus on building high-performance leadership systems that scale.
Interested in being a guest on the show?
Visit: https://BreakfastLeadership.com/Podcast
Note: Some episodes may include sponsored guest appearances. In those cases, guests may have provided financial compensation to participate in the podcast.
Episodes

Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Leadership & Learning in Uncertain Times with Damon Lembi
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Adapting to Challenging TimesIn this insightful episode, Damon and Michael dive into how leaders and professionals can stay grounded and proactive during uncertain times. Damon previews an upcoming solo episode focused on managing adversity without falling into panic. Together, they analyze current trends in the job market, especially how compensation changes and layoffs are prompting many professionals to reconsider their career paths. They explore the power of continuous learning, the urgency of adaptability in today’s fast-paced environment, and how leaders can build resilient, high-performing teams—even in tough seasons.
From Athlete to EdTech EntrepreneurDamon Lembi shares his remarkable journey from being drafted by the Atlanta Braves to becoming the CEO of Learnit. After stepping away from professional sports, Damon started humbly as a receptionist at his family’s company—proving that reinvention often starts with humility. His story underscores how the discipline and mindset from athletics can translate into entrepreneurial success. With Learnit now having upskilled over 2 million professionals, Damon reminds us that our past experiences are powerful assets in building the future we want.
Dot-Com Boom RecollectionsMichael and Damon reflect on their experiences during the whirlwind of the dot-com era. Damon candidly discusses his unexpected rise to CEO after stepping in for a misaligned leader, while Michael shares stories from his time at comScore during both its meteoric rise and sudden market correction. Both offer behind-the-scenes insights into the volatile recruitment landscape of that time—when job changes were rapid, and stability was a rare commodity. It’s a candid look at lessons learned from fast-paced growth and sudden market pivots.
Marketing Strategy During Economic DownturnsShould marketing budgets be cut in a downturn? Michael and Damon say absolutely not. They explore why companies that maintain or even increase their marketing efforts during lean times often emerge stronger and more visible. Damon also revisits his personal shift from a baseball career to the business world, offering a real-world example of how unexpected changes can spark new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Thriving in Economic DownturnsDamon outlines his bold, counterintuitive playbook for thriving during economic turbulence—what he calls “possibility spotting.” From hiring top talent during recessions to acquiring competitors when others were retreating, he shares how Learnit stayed ahead while others hesitated. Damon emphasizes making smart, calculated bets—especially in areas like sales, product development, and marketing. His message is clear: Growth is possible, even when the world slows down.
Adapting to Challenges in BusinessUsing the metaphor of baseball trade deadlines, Michael and Damon explore the importance of recognizing opportunities in adversity. Michael emphasizes the need for strategic risk-taking and growth, while Damon reflects on his own business pivots—from overexpansion in 2000 to course correction in 2009. Their discussion reinforces a powerful message: long-term success requires a mix of perseverance, self-awareness, and the courage to evolve.
AI for Small Business AdvancementDamon and Michael explore how AI is becoming a game-changer for small businesses. Damon highlights how AI tools are now accessible for companies like Learnit, enabling them to streamline customer service, enhance marketing efforts, and even handle legal functions. Michael compares leveraging AI to fishing—reeling in customers through smarter, faster engagement. They agree: whether you're a startup or a legacy business, embracing AI is essential for growth and agility in today’s landscape.
The Learn It All LeaderDamon opens up about his latest book, The Learn It All Leader, which draws from his time with Hall of Fame coaches, his leadership journey in business, and his desire to pass on lasting wisdom to the next generation. He shares compelling stories about leadership wins and missteps, offering practical takeaways for those looking to lead with purpose. Damon also invites listeners to his podcast, The Learn It All Podcast, and extends a generous offer—a free class on essential skills like emotional intelligence or conflict resolution for those who connect with him on LinkedIn.
For nearly three decades, I've led Learnit, a global training company. In that time, we’ve upskilled over 1.8 million individuals in the workplace. Through this journey, I’ve gained insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.
Coming to business from a career in baseball, I bring an athlete’s perspective on leadership and training to my informal mentoring of executives. I've distilled those hard-won insights into my bestselling book, The Learn-It-All Leader—Mindset, Traits, and Tools and keynotes on leadership, entrepreneurship, and life-long learning.
Website: https://www.thelearnitallleader.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/
When you reach out to Damon, mention you heard his interview on the Breakfast Leadership Show, and he will give you a free course (Thank you, Damon!)
Shout out to https://tasteofrome.co/

Monday Aug 25, 2025
From Key West Dreams to Global Leadership with Donzel Legett
Monday Aug 25, 2025
Monday Aug 25, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Donzel, whose journey takes us from the sun-soaked streets of Key West, Florida, to the locker rooms of Purdue University, and on through a 30-year corporate career leading international teams. We explore why he traded palm trees for the Midwest — a decision shaped by family ties, academic ambition, and the guiding hand of a high school coach with deep Purdue connections. Donzel shares how growing up surrounded by diverse cultures in Key West prepared him to lead in a complex, global world.
Leadership That Meets You Where You AreDonzel tells a powerful story of nearly quitting his high school football team — and how Coach Freeman’s flexible, heart-led leadership kept him in the game. That moment taught him the value of humility, accessibility, and investing in people. We talk about how those same qualities can transform workplaces, teams, and even entire communities.
Making Your Destiny HappenDonzel’s new book, Make Your Destiny Happen, began as a life plan he created in his twenties. Six months of writing turned into four years of editing, as he distilled decades of leadership experience from across the globe into a guide for others. His philosophy? Leadership done well creates ripples far beyond the office walls.
Mentors in Unexpected PlacesFrom his great grandmother to a janitor who quietly shared investment wisdom, Donzel’s life is a testament to finding mentors everywhere. We swap stories about the surprising people who’ve shaped our own journeys and how wisdom often shows up in the least expected ways. His book offers readers a roadmap to building a balanced life — one that honors both ambition and well-being.
The Art and Grind of CreatingWe compare content creation to staging a Broadway production — the endless rewrites, the fine-tuning, and the moment you know it’s ready. Donzel’s hope is that his book will spark change and possibility for readers, and I couldn’t agree more. Strong leadership is needed now more than ever, and his message delivers.
Empowering Through Positive ChangeDonzel believes in leadership that inspires, not intimidates. His book is a call to action for anyone ready to take control of their life, redefine success, and lead with purpose. If it inspires even one person to take that step, he considers it a win.
Where to Find DonzelYou can explore more of Donzel’s work through his website, his social channels, and his Make Your Destiny Happen Petite Podcast — short, impactful leadership lessons often inspired by his late father. And, of course, pick up your copy of Make Your Destiny Happen.
Donzel Leggett is an accomplished senior executive with 32+ years of leadership experience driving business growth for Fortune 200 consumer products companies. Donzel’s career reflects a demonstrated track record of leading transformational change on a global scale through strategic vision, planning and execution, and inspirational leadership with enterprise-wide initiatives that include optimizing operations and integrating M&A transactions in complex international business environments. Donzel earned a reputation as an inspirational unifier having built many strong collaborative cross-functional teams, across several geographies, cultures, and diverse backgrounds. Donzel is also a community leader, a member of several nonprofit and advisory boards, and is board chair at two organizations.
Donzel has been widely recognized as one of the most inspirational leaders within the many organizations in which he has been a part of. He is continually contacted for career and leadership advice and development and has coached and mentored thousands of people across the globe.
Throughout his career, Donzel has successfully led large organizations in highly complex, dynamic and diverse environments, with up to ten thousand team members dispersed across the globe. As the magnitude and demands of his leadership accountabilities continued to expand, Donzel developed the proprietary leadership models and methodology that are now at the center of the Destiny Development DeltaTM consultancy.
Donzel’s passion is coaching, developing and mentoring people all over the world, and his vision and purpose are to transform lives so that every person can be the very best leader that they can be.
Website: destinydevdelta.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/donzelleggett
Facebook: facebook.com/donzel.leggett.9
Instagram: instagram.com/donzel_leggett
Linktree: linktr.ee/destinydevdelta
YouTube: youtube.com/@DonzelLeggett
Podcast: feeds.captivate.fm/make-your-destiny-happen

Friday Aug 22, 2025
Friday Aug 22, 2025
Building a Brand That Opens Doors
In this episode, I sit down with Serah, a former child actor turned personal branding expert and AI business strategist, to explore why personal branding isn’t a “nice-to-have” anymore — it’s the engine that drives your career and business forward. We swap real-world examples from heavy-hitters like Sara Blakely, Kendra Scott, and Elon Musk, showing how the right brand identity can multiply your impact, influence, and income.
From overcoming the fear of self-promotion to navigating humility without hiding your brilliance, Serah breaks down the mindset shifts that every entrepreneur and professional needs to make to be seen, heard, and trusted.
The Fear Factor: Rejection, Imperfection, and the Art of Showing Up
We talk about the paralysis that comes from worrying about how your work will be received — and why you need to release it anyway. I share why I tell authors to publish their books without obsessing over reviews, because your unique perspective is what makes the work valuable.
We even take a detour into pop culture, unpacking the mixed reviews of Amazon Prime Video’s “War of the Worlds” and how audience reaction doesn’t always match actual value.
Creativity, Algorithms, and Authentic Connection
Putting yourself out there creatively isn’t easy. Serah and I dive into the messy reality of criticism, algorithm-driven visibility, and the rising hunger for authentic human connection in a world leaning heavily on AI. We explore why imperfection isn’t a liability — it’s proof you’re human and relatable.
Speaking Up — Even When You’re Not Ready
I share a personal story about how a college presentation — given while I had chicken pox — became the turning point in my public speaking journey. The standing ovation I received despite my appearance taught me one lesson I’ve carried for life: never let fear silence you.
From Self-Sabotage to Vision-Driven Growth
Serah and I connect the dots between personal branding, risk-taking, and the inner work needed to break free from limiting beliefs. We talk about creating a vivid future self-identity, setting meaningful goals, and tackling the invisible barriers that hold so many back.
The throughline? Success comes when you decide to play bigger — and actually step onto the stage you’ve been avoiding.
Resources & Connections
Serah shares her own platforms, including her personal brand hub sarahdelaine.com, her Stage 8 agency for marketing services, and her Profitable Personal Brand newsletter.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or creative, this conversation will give you the clarity — and the push — to own your story and amplify your presence.
About Serah D'Laine
From Hollywood Red Carpet to Reinvention Serah D’Laine’s entrepreneurial life once revolved around her Hollywood career. She was a successful actress, known for gracing the screen with roles in feature films, network television, and national commercials. Working since she was 13 years old, her world was immersed with auditions, scripts, and the glitz, glamour, and chaos of the entertainment industry. From the outside, it looked like she had it all—a successful acting career many dream of, red carpets, recognition, and a foot in the door of fame. But beneath the surface, Serah felt a deep void.
The Hollywood lifestyle didn’t align with her desire for meaningful life.Growing up in Hollywood brought a measure of success she enjoyed, she started to feel like she was playing a role not just on screen but in her own life. There was a lingering feeling that something deeper was missing—a sense of purpose, alignment, and fulfillment that no amount of celebrity could provide....
Then came the moment that changed everything: a near-death experience. A single, life-altering event that ripped away the illusions she had built her life around. Waking nearly every night in a panic from PTS - It left her with one haunting realization: she wasn’t living her truth. She felt a pull—call it intuition, destiny, or divine intervention—to walk away from the world she knew and reinvent herself entirely. The vision of a new path—a fusion of personal growth, branding, and impact—emerged.
But stepping into the unknown was terrifying. Could she leave her career, identity, and comfort zone behind to build something entirely new?..... "one of the hardest decisions of my life, to put a successful 15 year career on hold + finally listen to “HER”, my true self." Her journey has prepared her for this role as a brand strategist, business coach, and leadership mentor. She has reinvented herself not once but multiple times, and her success was the ultimate validation that this was her destined path.
What makes Serah different? Her brand isn’t built on theories; it’s built on experience. She knows the highs and lows of reinvention because she’s lived them. And now, she’s here to guide others to their own version of success.
Today, Serah D’Laine stands as a speaker in psychology-based branding, business growth strategy, and leadership. Through Stage IIX, iSCALE CRM, and her Profitable Personal Brand Formula and L.E.A.D Method, she offers clients the tools to build authentic brands, achieve financial freedom, and align their businesses with their highest selves. Her journey—marked by reinvention, resilience, and results—makes her uniquely qualified to guide others.
She isn’t just a coach; she’s a testament to the power of transformation, proving that anyone can rise, pivot, and thrive when they align their purpose with their work. "The million dollar tip that “Hollywood” taught me, that is probably one of the most important things I use to succeed in your business.....IT’S ALL ABOUT POSITIONING!!!

Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODEIn this powerful episode, I sit down with Tito Alvarez, a name synonymous with advocacy and integrity in California’s Hispanic communities. Known as California’s most trusted Hispanic advocate during the 1980s and 90s, Tito built one of the state’s most recognized accident support brands—and now, he’s come out of retirement with a mission: to protect victims from being exploited by high-volume legal "settlement mills."
With over 1,200 families helped and a legacy of putting victim care over case volume, Tito shares how his proprietary system is changing the narrative around legal representation for vulnerable accident victims. We dive deep into why the first 72 hours after an accident can determine your future, how to spot predatory legal tactics, and why most victims choose the wrong attorney.
Through his latest work with TitoParaTi, Tito is building a new standard in personal injury support—where families receive not just legal aid, but compassion, clarity, and care every step of the way.
🎯 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
The hidden crisis hurting Hispanic families in the legal system
What makes TitoParaTi radically different from traditional law firms
The 3-minute decision that could protect (or jeopardize) your family's future
How Tito built—and rebuilt—a movement to restore dignity in legal advocacy
🎓 ABOUT TITO ALVAREZ
Helped 1,200+ victims receive ethical, personalized legal support
Built California’s most recognized Hispanic advocacy brand in the 80s/90s
Developed a client-first system that puts care ahead of case volume
Returned from retirement to lead an ethical revolution in personal injury law
📩 Connect with Tito & Learn MoreWebsite: https://titoparati.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/titoparatiofficial/. DM Tito365
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@titoparatiofficial_
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TitoParaTi
Phone: 1(909)909-9090

Monday Aug 18, 2025
Scaling Success in Business and Nonprofits with Dr. Jairo Borja
Monday Aug 18, 2025
Monday Aug 18, 2025
In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Jairo Borja, President and CEO of Borja Consulting Group, to explore how he's helping both entrepreneurs and nonprofits scale their impact. Dr. Borja shared details about his 90-Day Mastery Program—designed specifically for coaches and consultants ready to level up—and his curriculum development work with nonprofits focused on entrepreneurship. He also talked about his latest book, DealMaker: How to Easily Raise the Limit of Capital Deals, which has opened new speaking opportunities and platforms to share his knowledge. And yes, we even took a nostalgic detour back to our teenage years, remembering the long wait in line for WrestleMania 3 tickets during a frigid winter.
Unexpected Wins from Group SessionsI shared how group coaching sessions often produce unexpected breakthroughs. Many participants, after just 9 weeks, find themselves launching businesses or uncovering opportunities they never planned for. The group environment fosters connection, networking, and accountability—elements that spark real momentum and transformation in a short amount of time.
The Power of Accountability and Support in CoachingWe dove into the structure and benefits of group coaching—weekly lessons, community support, and ongoing dialogue through platforms like WhatsApp. These elements keep participants engaged and focused. I stressed how small wins—like acting on a downloaded tool or applying a new framework—often lead to big shifts. Group coaching isn't just about content; it's about action and growth, powered by community. And yes, I couldn’t resist comparing the coach’s role to Paul Heyman’s legendary presence in wrestling—because every great performer needs a strategic voice in their corner.
Mentorship and Peer Support: Game Changers for GrowthWe highlighted how peer support and mentorship aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re often the missing piece that unlocks major breakthroughs. I shared personal stories where relationships and guidance made all the difference, especially in scaling nonprofit and business initiatives. These kinds of groups provide encouragement, real-time feedback, and actionable insights that accelerate success.
Real Estate Lessons from DealMakerDr. Borja also expanded on his book DealMaker, which chronicles his journey in real estate—from securing a 52-unit property in North Carolina to learning from failed deals in Allentown, Memphis, and Madera Beach. The book outlines strategies for accessing capital—like term loans, business credit lines, and self-directed IRAs—and it serves as a tool to attract coaching clients, enroll members into his "Elevation" program, or draw in passive investors. He also teased a busy speaking schedule, with events in Miami, Atlanta, and more—even during August, a month usually slow for conferences.
Building Business Through Clear CommunicationI shared insights from my own recent speaking engagements, reflecting on the dynamics of in-person versus virtual events. One consistent truth: having a book is a game-changer. It builds instant credibility and creates powerful networking opportunities. I also emphasized the importance of refining your message when pitching for capital—and how being in a group coaching environment sharpens that message and broadens access to strategic resources. If you’ve read my book, I encourage you to share it with your own mentorship circle. The impact multiplies when we grow together.
Why Small Business Still MattersWe wrapped up with a discussion on the pivotal role small businesses play in the economy. With half of the Fortune 500 companies from the year 2000 now gone, it’s clear: agility, innovation, and community matter more than ever. Dr. Borja announced the launch of his next program cohort kicking off in late July or early August, and he’s welcoming new participants. You can connect with him directly via LinkedIn or visit Borja Consulting Group and Borja Capital to learn more.

Friday Aug 15, 2025
Friday Aug 15, 2025
In this dynamic episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, I sit down with Ted Santos—founder of Turnaround Investment Partners—for a powerful conversation on leadership, disruption, and transforming companies from the inside out.
With over two decades of experience turning around distressed businesses and scaling organizations growing faster than they could handle, Ted brings a wealth of insight. He shares his early leadership journey as a COO in the transportation and translation sectors, where he radically improved operations by shifting culture and introducing new service lines. One standout story: how his lack of industry knowledge in translation actually became his superpower. Ted spearheaded cultural translation services for websites—an innovative leap that reshaped how companies approached global communications.
That sparked a familiar theme for me. I reflected on my own healthcare leadership journey—stepping into the industry without direct experience. Sometimes, not knowing “how it’s always been done” is exactly what’s needed to drive game-changing innovation.
Reimagining Growth Through Diverse Lenses
We explored how bringing in external perspectives—whether from different industries, cultures, or life experiences—is a powerful way to break the echo chamber of internal assumptions. I shared a story from my days running a multicultural healthcare clinic, where dialogue and inclusion—not rigid policies—became the key to navigating cultural complexity and driving operational excellence.
Ted offered insights on his disruption framework for organizations, helping leaders embrace volatility and turn it into a strategic advantage.
Discomfort as a Catalyst for Innovation
Ted and I went deep into why organizations must learn to disrupt themselves before the market does. Drawing on both history and personal experiences, Ted cited icons like Rockefeller and Ford, reminding us that lasting innovation doesn’t come from comfort zones—it comes from shaking them up.
As leaders, we must be willing to challenge norms, ask uncomfortable questions, and reinvent systems. I added some examples from my own path—like pivoting to virtual events long before it became a necessity—and how that foresight unlocked unexpected growth.
Leading With Boldness in a Changing World
Ted laid out a compelling case for what he calls "disruptive leadership"—the ability to invent new possibilities and even “create problems” that force organizations to stretch. We discussed how leaders must confront blind spots (both personal and organizational), embrace continuous learning, and build the muscle to delegate strategically if they want to scale sustainably.
Owning Your Narrative: Responsibility and Reinvention
We closed on a deeply personal note—how early life experiences shape behavior, and how owning your story is the first step in transforming it. Ted and I unpacked the role of ego, unconscious patterns, and the necessity of unlearning behaviors that no longer serve our leadership.
It’s a conversation about growth, yes—but more importantly, about responsibility. Innovation isn’t just about ideas—it’s about the inner work we do to lead ourselves and others through disruption.
Connect with Ted Santos:Ted’s work is ideal for organizations navigating rapid change or seeking bold new strategies. If you're looking to challenge your current trajectory, this episode is your invitation to start.
Ted Santos is the ultimate “Disruptor of Limits”—a bold strategist who trains and develops CEOs and executives to stop solving problems and start creating them to fuel breakthroughs that redefine industries.
As the creator of the Disruptive Leadership Model, Ted flips conventional wisdom on its head, proving that chaos isn’t a threat—it’s the catalyst for transformation. With a track record of turning impossible visions into unstoppable growth, Ted challenges leaders to think bigger, act bolder, and turn uncertainty into opportunity.
Whether he’s helping businesses scale without breaking or reshaping corporate cultures to thrive under pressure, Ted is the go-to expert for leaders who refuse to settle for incremental growth and are ready to disrupt their way to dominance.

Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Double Your Profits in a Year: Cary Prejean's Proven Strategies for Business Growth
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Cary works with small to medium-sized business owners to help them break through growth barriers. It's incredible how Cary helps businesses double their profits in under a year while ensuring all operations run like a well-oiled machine. And who wouldn't want their business to run smoothly? That's the reality Cary creates for her clients.Cary sets business owners up with tools to manage by the numbers, allowing them to handle unexpected challenges with precision. This approach allows leaders to stay ahead and design the future they envision for their business. Cary could bring a whole new perspective to your audience, with practical insights and a real-time management style.
Cary Prejean is a CFO consultant and executive coach. He has an accounting and CPA background with several companies primarily in the manufacturing, wholesale and construction industries. He is also a certified ontological coach since 1992 by Newfield Network, giving him unique insight in working with executives. Cary’s mission is to turn business owners into visionaries and prime business generators vs. minutiae managers.
https://strategicbusinessadvisors.orghttps://strategicbusinessadvisors.us/https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryprejean/

Monday Aug 11, 2025
Monday Aug 11, 2025
Evolving Leadership in a Tech-Driven RegionIn this episode, Michael chats with Mohamed—an Egyptian leader based in Saudi Arabia with a wealth of experience across the Middle East and Europe. The conversation explores the region’s tech-fueled transformation and how it’s reshaping business and leadership. With a young, dynamic population and a high-growth environment, the demand for leadership coaching is on the rise. Mohamed shared that leaders are realizing that information alone doesn’t drive transformation—coaching does. Michael added that resilient leadership thrives in spaces where people feel empowered to adapt and grow, especially in today’s fast-changing world.
Coaching as a Catalyst for Leadership GrowthMichael and Mohamed dive into why coaching is no longer optional—it's essential. Michael emphasized the power of being coachable and how reaching out to mentors can elevate a leader’s impact. Mohamed echoed this, noting that one of the biggest hurdles in leadership development is working with individuals unwilling to learn. Together, they highlighted how coaching unlocks personal clarity and drives sustainable leadership growth—though not everyone is ready to embrace the process.
From Fear to the Front of the Room: A Nurse’s Speaking BreakthroughMichael shared an inspiring story of a nurse educator he once hired who struggled with public speaking. With encouragement and support, she stepped out of her comfort zone, pursued speaking opportunities, and eventually landed a leadership role in the healthcare system. The takeaway? When we identify and support the unique passions of our team, we unlock potential that transforms careers—and organizations.
The Human Side of AI in LeadershipAI may be changing how we work, but as Michael and Mohamed discussed, it can’t replace the human elements of leadership—empathy, coaching, and connection. Mohamed shared thoughtful insights on the evolving role of AI in the workplace and the need for leaders to remain adaptable. Michael noted that while AI can supercharge productivity and creativity, the true essence of leadership will always be rooted in relationships.
Global Impact: Mercer’s Role in Leadership DevelopmentThe episode wraps with a look at the global work Mohamed is doing with Mercer, helping shape the next generation of leaders through innovative coaching and development programs. He encourages listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn for more on Mercer’s approach to building resilient, future-ready leaders around the world.
Mohamed Hamza is a renowned authority on leadership assessment and development. As a certified executive coach, facilitator, and assessor, he has made significant impacts across the GCC, Europe, and Africa. Mohamed currently designs and delivers cutting-edge leadership solutions to top clients as Senior Client Success Director at Mercer.With over 15 years of experience, Mohamed has coached over 3,000 leaders from future talents to C-suite executives in over 60 multinational organizations like PepsiCo, Microsoft, and Saudi ministries. He has trained 200+ professional coaches and established corporate academies generating multi-million dollar revenues. Mohamed holds coaching credentials from the International Coach Federation (PCC), Center for Creative Leadership, and Ashridge-Hult.
Mohamed can share invaluable insights into leadership development, coaching, and building high-performing teams. His diverse experiences assessing and developing leaders globally across cultures allow him to discuss a wide range of relevant topics. Podcast hosts and audiences can expect practical wisdom and real-world examples from Mohamed's extensive expertise in this field.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamed-hamza-b9a54b28/
Website: https://thetalententerprise.com/

