Breakfast Leadership Show

Sleepmaxxing – The Secret to Beating Burnout & Unlocking Peak Performance

Episode Summary:In today’s fast-paced world, burnout is a growing epidemic. But what if the secret to higher energy, sharper focus, and sustainable success isn’t working harder—but sleeping smarter? Enter sleepmaxxing, a game-changing approach to optimizing rest for peak recovery, clarity, and mental well-being.
In this episode, we dive into:✅ How sleepmaxxing prevents burnout and boosts resilience.✅ The science behind high-quality sleep and cognitive performance.✅ Proven strategies to improve sleep and enhance mental clarity.✅ The ripple effect: How better sleep transforms productivity and leadership.
If you’re a high achiever struggling with stress, decision fatigue, or exhaustion, this episode is a must-listen!
🔔 Subscribe & Share with fellow professionals who need this life-changing sleep strategy!
💡 Key Takeaways:✔️ Burnout Prevention – Sleep restores energy, reduces stress, and regulates emotions.✔️ Peak Mental Clarity – Sleep enhances focus, memory, and problem-solving.✔️ Maximizing Recovery – Sleepmaxxing optimizes rest to fuel sustainable success.
📢 Resources & Links:🛏️ Top Sleep-Enhancing Tools & Trackers📘 Recommended Reading on Sleep Science💡 Follow Us for More High-Performance Strategies
🎧 Listen now and transform your nights to supercharge your days! 🚀
 

Conscious Leadership: How Seema Dhanoa's Book Aims to Transform Organizations

Seema’s Leadership Journey and Insights
Seema, a leader in business transformation, shared how she realized that leadership needed a serious overhaul to create value without causing harm. Her experience launching Canada’s first Social Finance Bank and working in finance across the country gave her a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t in leadership. I recognized her drive to improve leadership and make a real impact, something she’s now bringing to the world through her book.
Addressing Toxic Work Environments
Seema and I had a tough but necessary conversation about why so many workplaces today are toxic. The issue isn’t just lousy management; leaders are laser-focused on short-term targets while ignoring the human side of business. We both agreed that authentic leadership means creating an environment where people feel valued, engaged, and can do meaningful work. People don’t quit companies—they leave bad leaders.
Leadership Through Humility and Listening
I shared my experience turning around a high-turnover primary care clinic by doing something surprisingly simple—listening. Great things happen when leaders stop dictating and start understanding their people’s needs. Humility is key. Seema echoed this, emphasizing that leadership is about gathering perspectives, being fully present, and observing challenges with a fresh lens. If leaders truly listened more and talked less, they’d be amazed at what they could learn.
Seema’s Book on Consciousness Transformation
Seema’s new book explores how consciousness can transform organizations and society. She first felt the pull to write in 2016, but the pandemic gave her message new urgency. Despite the skeptics, she boldly chose to walk away from a corporate consulting gig in Toronto to finish her book. That level of commitment to change is precisely what leadership needs today.
Adaptation and Awareness in Leadership
We talked about how leaders who fail to adapt don’t just hurt their businesses—they create ripple effects that impact families and communities. History is full of once-dominant companies that collapsed because their leaders ignored external changes. The lesson? Adaptability isn’t optional. Leaders must be open to new experiences, actively listen to their teams, and adjust their strategies before it’s too late. Business isn’t static, and leadership shouldn’t be, either.
Leadership, Learning, and Team Cohesion
Great leaders don’t pretend to have all the answers—they ask better questions. I emphasized the power of vulnerability in leadership, while Seema reinforced the importance of trusting the expertise within your team. When leaders foster a culture of learning and openness, innovation thrives. Seema’s book, launching March 28th, aims to start a much-needed dialogue about this shift in leadership.
Podcast Impact and Self-Care
Seema and I also discussed the impact of our respective podcasts. She praised the conversational nature of my show, and we explored the role of storytelling in leadership. We also touched on her journey from burnout to being a book author, which is an essential reminder that leaders must prioritize their well-being to make a lasting impact.
Book:  https://amzn.to/43jGXI6
Website:  https://www.seemadhanoa.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemadhanoa/
 

Unlocking Government Grants and Bridging the Wealth Gap: Insights from Entrepreneur and Community Advocate Matthew Lesko

Matthew Lesko, an 81-year-old entrepreneur, shared his life journey, his realization about government money programs, and his desire to educate people about them. He also discussed the importance of giving and helping others, the role of technology in sharing information, and the significant income disparity in the US. The conversation concluded with a discussion on personal growth, the widening income gap, and the importance of taking control of one's own destiny.
 
Community Economy and Capitalism Discussion
Matthew Lesko shared his experiences and insights about the balance between the community economy and capitalism in the US. He emphasized that the community economy, which includes government and nonprofit organizations, accounts for 40% of the economy, while the remaining 60% is driven by capitalist ventures. Matthewlesko also discussed his personal journey, from growing up in a working-class family to becoming a successful consultant and entrepreneur. He expressed his frustration that many people, particularly those struggling financially, are unaware of the government programs and resources available to them, and that those who are more affluent often exploit these systems for personal gain.
The Value of Giving and Helping
Matthew and Michael discussed the importance of giving and helping others, drawing from their personal experiences and observations. Matthew shared his journey of realizing the value of giving and how it has grown over time, particularly through his subscription service that has helped 15,000 people access grants. He emphasized the importance of sharing one's unique talents and not copying others. Michael agreed, highlighting the positive impact of Matthew's service on society. They also touched on the idea of finding one's own unique talents and not being afraid to fail while pursuing them. The conversation ended with Matthew expressing his frustration over the misconception that his subscription service was a strategic branding move, when in fact, it was born out of a desire to help others.
Google's Impact on Income Inequality
Matthew expressed his belief that Google is negatively impacting society, particularly those who are struggling financially. He pointed out that the average income for the bottom 90% of earners has not increased significantly over the past 40 years, while the top 10% have seen substantial growth. This, he argued, has led to a higher poverty rate in the US compared to other developed countries. Michael responded with a non-committal "Hmm".
Widening Income Gap and Society
Michael and Matthew Lesko discussed the widening income gap and its impact on society. Matthew shared his belief that the gap started around 1979 and that it's not just about wealth, but also about skills and education. They agreed that there are programs now for skills training, which could lead to higher-paying jobs without the need for a college degree. They also touched on the topic of greed and dissatisfaction, which they believe contribute to hatred. Matthew emphasized the importance of personal growth and comfort in improving one's life and society as a whole. They concluded the conversation with Matthew sharing his community resources and Michael expressing his appreciation for Matthew's service and insights.
 

Transformative Leadership: Embracing Trust and Culture for a Thriving Workplace with Monika Guzek

Transformative Leadership Insights: As the founder of Conscious Business Consulting, Monika has empowered high-profile clients like EY, Unilever, and Toyota to enhance their leadership capabilities and prevent burnout, showcasing her ability to drive results across diverse industries. Her work with leaders from 68 countries provides unique cultural perspectives that can inspire actionable changes within workplace environments.Innovative Approaches to Resilience and Inclusivity: Monika’s innovative methodologies, including the use of LEGO® Serious Play in her coaching, align perfectly with the Breakfast Leadership Show's focus on personal growth and mental resilience. Her passion for cultural diversity and inclusion is poised to offer listeners fresh strategies for fostering inclusive workplaces and enhancing overall well-being.
Website:  https://monikaguzek.com/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/monika-guzek/
Courses:  https://monikaguzek.com/sklep/
 
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Diversity
Monika and I dove into the tough realities of today’s world—everything from the lingering effects of the pandemic and global conflicts to economic struggles and shifting governments. One of the biggest challenges we see? The decline of joy in the workplace. Monika pointed out that the blending of personal and corporate life plays a huge role in this. She stressed the importance of embracing cultural and generational diversity, with leaders stepping up to empower their teams and create truly inclusive environments. We also explored how social skills are critical in today’s workplace—many people feel overwhelmed and struggle to manage their workload effectively.
Embracing Diverse Communication and Cultural Nuances
Communication in a diverse workplace isn’t just about words—it’s about understanding the meaning behind them. Monika emphasized the need to strike a balance between positivity and tough conversations, as well as the importance of reading between the lines in different cultural contexts. I completely agreed. Clear communication is key, but so is recognizing cultural nuances. Personally, I appreciate direct communication and love using humor as a tool—even if it doesn’t always land perfectly. We both agreed that embracing these differences leads to stronger collaboration and better teamwork.
Fostering a Healthy Workplace Culture
We also explored what it takes to build a thriving workplace culture—one where people feel connected and supported. Monika highlighted the importance of playfulness and fun at work, even bringing up how something as simple as Lego can spark creativity. That said, there’s a balance—some industries require a more structured approach. We also touched on the insights from The Culture Map, discussing how different cultural dimensions influence workplace interactions. At the end of the day, considering different perspectives makes for a more productive and enjoyable work environment.
Building Trust in Diverse Workplaces
Trust is the foundation of any great workplace. When leaders and employees trust each other, they can create better products and services that make a real impact. I emphasized how crucial it is for leaders to foster that trust—because without it, everything else falls apart. Monika added that trust-building requires awareness of cultural differences and individual needs. It’s all about open communication, self-awareness, and a conscious approach to understanding those we work with. When we get this right, we create workplaces where people feel valued, heard, and truly connected.
 

Mastering Delegation for Resilient Leadership

In this episode, we explore the art of delegation—a vital skill for executives aiming to lead resilient, adaptable organizations. Many leaders struggle to relinquish control or feel swamped by daily tasks. Discover three essential strategies for effective delegation, uncover common obstacles, and learn actionable solutions to empower your team and prioritize strategic leadership.
 
Keywords: delegation strategies, effective leadership, resilient companies, executive delegation, team empowerment
 
What You’ll Learn
How to assess tasks and decide what to delegate
Tips for selecting the right team member for the job
The importance of clear expectations and instructions
Common delegation pitfalls and how to overcome them
Why delegation is key to surviving recurring business challenges
Key Segments
1. Crucial Exercise #1: Assess the WorkDelegation begins with evaluation. Ask: Is this task central to your leadership role? If not, identify the skills required and match them to a capable team member. Learn to let go of non-essential duties to focus on high-impact priorities.
2. Principle #2: Choose the Correct PersonPicking the right individual is crucial. Evaluate expertise, workload, and readiness to ensure the task lands in capable hands. Delegation isn’t just offloading—it’s about empowering the right people.
3. Essential Practice #3: State Expectations and DirectionsClear communication drives successful delegation. Find out how to set detailed expectations, provide resources, establish deadlines, and check in without micromanaging.
4. Overcoming Delegation ChallengesFrom fear of losing control to doubting your team’s abilities, delegation can be tough. This episode breaks down common hurdles and shares proven techniques:
Foster open communication
Set clear guidelines to minimize errors
Invest time upfront to save effort later
Use delegation as a growth opportunity for your team
5. Conclusion: Build a Resilient FutureEffective delegation isn’t just a time-saver—it’s a leadership essential. By mastering these strategies, you can create a trusting, capable team and focus on high-impact strategic initiatives.
Featured Quote
“Delegation takes time upfront but saves you from burnout and rework in the long run.”
Resources Mentioned
Blog Post: Mastering Delegation for Resilient Leadership
Books:
Burnout Proof (Amazon)
The Great Resignation & Quiet Quitting (Amazon)
369 Days: How To Survive A Year of Worst-Case Scenarios (Amazon)
Connect with Breakfast Leadership Network:
 
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Blog: BreakfastLeadership.com/blog
Interviews: BreakfastLeadership.com/media
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Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your network! Want more leadership insights? Explore additional resources at BreakfastLeadership.com.
Next Episode Teaser: Burnout-proof your leadership—tune in next week for practical tips to thrive under pressure.

Dana L. Cox on how to Lead Boldly and Achieve Success Without Burnout

Breaking Barriers: Advancing Women’s Careers Without Burnout – with Dana Cox
In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, Michael welcomes Dana Cox, founder and CEO of Fixed Coaching and Consulting, to discuss the realities of career advancement for high-achieving women without sacrificing well-being. Dana shares her mission to help women rise in leadership while avoiding the burnout trap.
They tackle the unique challenges female executives face, including the “third shift” of mental load that often goes unnoticed. Michael and Dana discuss why work-life harmony—not balance—is the real goal and how men can step up at home to support true equity. They also examine how COVID-19 reshaped workplace expectations, the crucial role of self-awareness in preventing burnout, and the natural leadership strengths women bring to the table.
From Burnout to Badass: The Power of Boundaries
Michael and Dana explore the power of self-reflection and boundary-setting—two critical tools for sustainable success. Dana shares her burnout journey and how it fueled her book, From Burnout to Badass. The key takeaway? You don’t have to reinvent yourself to find fulfillment. Small, intentional shifts can create a meaningful work-life dynamic that works for you, not against you.
Self-Care as a Leadership Strategy
Burnout prevention isn’t just about time off—it’s about prioritizing yourself every day. Dana and Michael discuss practical self-care strategies that help leaders maintain energy, focus, and productivity. They discuss the value of self-awareness in both personal and professional life and highlight key insights from Dana’s book on overcoming burnout and creating a life that feels both successful and sustainable.
🚀 Ready to take control of your career and well-being? Tune in now!
 
Website:  https://www.danalcox.com/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/danalcox
Book: From Burnout to Badass  https://amzn.to/4bCxH47
 
Success isn’t just about climbing the ranks—it’s about leading with impact while living a life that feels as fulfilling as it looks. Dana L. Cox is dedicated to helping ambitious women and forward-thinking organizations achieve both.
With over two decades of senior leadership experience, Dana has navigated the high-stakes world of financial services and tech, understanding firsthand the pressures and expectations that come with leadership. She knows what it takes to excel without burnout and is on a mission to ensure women don’t have to choose between success and well-being.
As the Founder of FIX Coaching & Consulting, Dana delivers results-driven coaching and leadership programs that go beyond theory. She equips women with the strategies, confidence, and clarity to lead boldly—without compromise. For organizations, she drives efficiency, fosters inclusive cultures, and helps build workplaces where diverse leadership thrives.
Dana’s approach is accurate, actionable, and transformative. She’s here to cut through the noise, provide the tools and support needed for lasting success, and ensure that thriving professionally and personally is not just a goal but a reality.
 

Empathy-Driven Leadership: Transforming Work Culture in the Modern Workforce with Dr. Greg Giuliano

Adapting Leadership for the Modern Workforce
In this episode, Michael D. Levitt and Dr. Greg Giuliano explore the evolution of leadership from a rigid, top-down approach to a more coaching-driven model. Greg highlights the shift in workplace dynamics, where employees now seek empathetic, adaptable, and empowering leaders. Using the analogy of a soccer coach, he illustrates how successful organizations recognize that leaders should set the vision, but the team is responsible for delivering results.
The Power of Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership
Michael and Greg discuss the critical role of empathy and curiosity, especially in times of change. Michael shares his experience transforming a clinic with high turnover into a thriving workplace by truly understanding his team’s needs. Greg reinforces that great leaders create environments where people are motivated to give their best—not out of obligation but because they feel valued. They also discuss the importance of allowing employees to operate in their “sweet spot” and equipping them with the necessary resources to succeed.
Leveraging Summer Students to Strengthen Work Culture
The conversation shifts to the benefits of integrating summer students into an organization. Michael underscores that fostering a strong workplace culture isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel appreciated and supported, which naturally leads to retention and attraction of top talent. He emphasizes that when leaders prioritize employee well-being, they build a workplace where people want to stay and grow.
Fostering Positive Team Culture as Leaders
Greg emphasizes that leaders can shape positive team cultures, even within large organizations. Leaders can drive engagement and retention by setting clear expectations, establishing healthy boundaries, and prioritizing team well-being. He introduces the mindset of "serving to lead"—a principle inspired by the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst—highlighting that leadership isn’t about authority but creating the conditions for teams to thrive.
Building Strong Teams Through Training and Fun
Michael shares a powerful story from his time in insurance automation software, where an overlooked installation department wholly transformed under exemplary leadership. The department became a well-respected, high-performing unit through quarterly training sessions and team-building activities. Their teamwork and strategic execution were so impactful that they were handpicked for a significant project in New Orleans, ultimately earning glowing client recommendations. This story reinforces that investing in team culture leads to stronger performance and long-term success.
The Connection Between Therapy and Team Building
Greg and Michael discuss the parallels between therapy and leadership, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in building resilient teams. With his background in therapy and coaching, Greg explains how leaders who nurture personal connections within their teams create stronger, more engaged workplaces. They conclude that self-awareness and empathy are non-negotiable skills for today’s leaders.
Greg’s Work at Ultra Leadership
To wrap up, Greg shares insights into his work at Ultra Leadership, where he provides executive coaching, team development, and change management consulting. 
 
Dr. Greg Giuliano is an advisor and executive coach to senior leaders and teams worldwide. He founded GA | Ultra Leadership, designing leadership and team development strategies that drive organizational transformation. He aims to help leaders and teams grow their capacity to enable positive disruption for markets, organizations, teams, and individuals.Greg is the author of three #1 Amazon Bestsellers—Coaching for (a) Change (2024), The Next Normal (2022), and Ultra Leadership (2016)—as well as The Hero’s Journey (2014).
Website: ultraleadership.comLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggiuliano/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ultraleadership

From Adversity to Empowerment: Todd Bertsch's Inspiring Journey to Transform Lives

Todd Bertsch is a dynamic entrepreneur, motivational speaker, life-optimization coach, and host of The BOLT Podcast. His remarkable journey from overcoming challenges in his youth to a life-changing transformation in his 20s has shaped his career and established him as a respected figure in digital marketing, education, and leadership. In 2009,
Todd founded Evolve Marketing, a successful digital agency that reflects his curious spirit and dedication to excellence. Driven by a passion to inspire, Todd's mission is to encourage individuals to embrace change, cultivate a growth mindset, and lead lives filled with purpose and fulfillment. His commitment to community service is evident through his involvement on numerous nonprofit boards, and he currently serves as the president of Leadership Akron Signature Class 39.• https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddmbertsch/• https://www.facebook.com/theboltwithtoddb• https://www.instagram.com/theboltwithtoddb/• https://www.youtube.com/@theboltwithtoddb
Meeting Summary ✨
Evolve Marketing’s Origin Story ⏳ 4:48
Todd shares how he founded Evolve Marketing in 2009 during the recession, leveraging his prior experience to build a digital marketing agency rooted in a positive, family-like culture for his team.
Personal Growth and Transformation 🌱 6:18
The COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point for Todd, leading him to work with a high-performance coach and complete programs like Brendon Burchard’s. This journey sparked his transition into keynote speaking, life coaching, and launching a podcast focused on personal development.
The Power of Curiosity and a Growth Mindset 🧠 14:11
Todd highlights the importance of curiosity and embracing a growth mindset. He notes that many people get stuck in a fixed way of thinking, and simple habits like daily gratitude can drive meaningful personal and professional transformation.
Building a Supportive, Empathetic Workplace Culture 🤝 24:24
Todd and Michael discuss the impact of leaders fostering a safe, empathetic work environment where employees feel supported and encouraged to share challenges. This strengthens trust and cultivates a true sense of community within organizations.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps 🔗 30:06
Todd shares his website and social media details, while Michael expresses appreciation for the discussion and interest in staying connected for future collaborations.