BusinessEntrepreneurship

Amplify Speakers Podcast

Chris Sund

Amplify Speakers Podcast features conversations with elite speakers, leaders, athletes, authors, and change-makers who know what it takes to perform at a high level and create real impact. Each episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore mindset, leadership, resilience, and the moments that shaped their journey. Hosted by Chris Sund of Amplify Speakers, this podcast spotlights voices that challenge thinking, inspire action, and help listeners elevate how they lead, communicate, and show up.

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#35
Monday · 38 min
Creating the Impossible: Creativity, Persistence, and the Power of Possibility – Blake Vogt
Creating the Impossible: Creativity, Persistence, and the Power of Possibility – Blake Vogt Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Blake Vogt. He shares his journey from a young magic enthusiast to working with top magicians like David Copperfield and David Blaine, and his philosophy of creating the impossible. Discover how embracing creativity, persistence, and a mindset that nothing is impossible can lead to extraordinary success. Takeaways · Blake's early fascination with magic at age 8 · The importance of creative experimentation in magic · How chance and persistence opened doors in Vegas and London · The value of bad ideas in creative problem-solving · Lessons learned from working with Copperfield and Blaine · The mindset that nothing is impossible · Goals of performing at Madison Square Garden · The role of collaboration and ego-less teamwork in creativity · Applying magic principles to business and product design · The importance of passion and hard work in achieving success Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blake Vogt and his magic career 01:14 Blake's childhood fascination with magic and early performances 03:28 Balancing creativity and performance in Blake’s career 08:11 How Blake started working with David Copperfield 12:01 The pivotal moment: dropping out of college for magic 15:09 Working on the set of Now You See Me and the Marvel movies 18:32 Meeting Paul Rudd and working on Ant-Man 22:04 The mindset of creating the impossible 34:06 Goals for the future: Madison Square Garden and beyond 35:54 Reflecting on the past year’s achievements 37:27 Closing thoughts and next steps for Blake Quotes "I never stopped using my magic kit." "Drop out of college and work with Copperfield." "Paul wanted to learn card tricks from me." Links Blake Vogt’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/blake-vogt/ Blake Vogt’s Website: https://www.blakevogt.com/ Blake Vogt’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-vogt-3478a549/
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#34
October 11 · 26 min
Real Vibes Only: Trust, Connection, and Authentic Leadership – Chelsea Husum
Real Vibes Only: Trust, Connection, and Authentic Leadership – Chelsea Husum Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Chelsea Husum. She shares her inspiring journey from a Spanish teacher to a successful construction business owner, emphasizing the importance of human connection, trust, and authenticity in leadership. She discusses how caring for employees and sharing personal stories can create a thriving, loyal team. Takeaways · The importance of caring about employees as humans · Building trust and ownership in teams · Leadership lessons from a construction CEO · The impact of sharing personal stories on team cohesion · Strategies for employee retention and engagement · People want to feel seen and valued, not just managed. · Simple acts of kindness can significantly impact employee loyalty. · Authentic leadership involves vulnerability and honesty. · Sharing personal struggles can inspire and connect teams. · Leadership is about creating a culture of trust and care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chelsea Husum and her unique success story 01:58 The importance of seeing and valuing employees as humans 04:11 Chelsea's unlikely entry into the construction industry 06:08 The inspiration behind her book, Real Vibes Only 08:08 The power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership 10:04 The importance of matching actions with words in company culture 12:08 Advice for retaining staff through caring and authenticity 14:02 The role of human connection in business success 15:00 Sharing personal struggles to inspire others 16:01 The concept of earning the follow and authentic leadership 16:57 Matching company values with everyday actions 17:52 The importance of leading out loud and being vulnerable 18:49 How to show up as a genuine leader in tough times 20:05 Simple ways to improve employee well-being and morale 21:12 Modeling healthy work-life balance as a leader 22:09 The real reason employees leave: feeling unseen and undervalued 22:57 Personal stories of kindness and their lasting impact 24:07 The power of caring and human connection in leadership 25:01 Opportunities to make a lasting positive impact on others 25:46 Connecting with Chelsea and her work Quotes “Can we get to know our employees as people so we can be like, ‘How are you doing today? What do you need from me? Is there any way I can support you right now?’ That is literally where the magic happens, and then people feel seen and cared for.” “That is what holds people back from actually innovating and being creative and taking risks. So if you can show up as a leader and say, ‘I’m not perfect, I don’t have all the answers. What am I missing? Help me here. Let’s create something together.’ People have buy-in.” “Do you know your people? Do you know what they struggle with? Do you know what lights them up, what they live for? What is the most important thing to them on the planet?” Links Chelsea Husum’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/chelsea-husum/ Chelsea Husum’s Website: https://www.chelseahusum.com/ Chelsea Husum’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-husum/ Chelsea Husum’s Book: https://chelseahusum.com/book
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#33
September 21 · 35 min
Adversity Leadership: Decision, Direction, and Destination – Michael Allison
Adversity Leadership: Decision, Direction, and Destination – Michael Allison Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Michael Allison. He shares his extraordinary journey from combat veteran to leadership expert, highlighting how adversity can be transformed into strength. His story offers powerful lessons on resilience, mental health, and the importance of purpose. Takeaways · Michael Allison's experience in Iraq and combat leadership · The concept of adversity leadership and its importance · How trauma and PTSD shaped Michael’s life and purpose · The framework of Decision, Direction, and Destination · The journey of personal transformation and resilience · Adversity can be a catalyst for growth when approached with the right mindset · Preparation and training are crucial in high-pressure situations · Sharing vulnerability can inspire and help others heal · Leadership is tested and proven in challenging times · Personal discipline and faith are key to overcoming trauma Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michael Allison and his background 01:23 Michael shares his experience in Iraq and combat leadership 05:10 The reality of combat and handling pressure 06:42 The impact of combat experiences and trauma 14:00 Turning trauma into purpose and the concept of breaking the bottle 24:25 The origins of adversity leadership and its principles 32:21 Personal transformation and proudest achievements Quotes "Complacency kills in combat" "Seeing my friends in body bags was a turning point" "How dare you try to take your life?" Links Michael Allison’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/michael-allison/ Michael Allison’s Website: https://michaelwallison.com/ Michael Allison’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iammichaelwallison/ Michael Allison’s Books: https://michaelwallison.com/insights/#books
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#32
September 6 · 34 min
Work on Your Game: Discipline, Execution, and Building Systems That Scale – Dre Baldwin
Work on Your Game: Discipline, Execution, and Building Systems That Scale – Dre Baldwin Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Dre Baldwin. He is the founder of Work on Your Game and we discussed how a nine-year pro basketball career across eight countries turned into a business philosophy used by executives and organizations worldwide. Dre explains the four pillars behind his framework, why “the third day” separates pros from amateurs, and how his work now focuses on turning speeches into repeatable systems. Takeaways · Dre shares how coming from a Division III college forced him to market and sell himself just to get a pro opportunity · He explains why professional sports taught him the same lessons he uses in business today: performance, structure, and consistency · The origin of Work on Your Game started with a late-night YouTube video and the phrase “stop watching YouTube ... and go work on your game” · Dre breaks down the original mindset pillars of discipline, confidence, mental toughness, and personal initiative · He expands the framework into the modern pillars of mindset, strategy, systems, and execution · He discusses his book The Third Day and why showing up when you do not feel like it is what separates professionals from amateurs · He talks about the difference between motivation and discipline, and why systems matter more than feelings · He shares why his real goal now is to make his frameworks part of company processes, not just a one-time speech · Dre gives real-world examples of people applying his ideas in dating, recovery from surgery, and team practice · He explains why his work has always been about helping people save time, energy, and trial and error Chapters 0:00 Intro and Dre Baldwin’s background as a pro athlete and creator 1:07 What Dre learned from nine years of professional basketball 3:23 Why no single coach defined his career 4:31 How Work on Your Game began on YouTube in 2009 6:42 The origin of the Work on Your Game operating system 9:57 Why The Third Day became his most sticky framework 12:41 How to handle a real “third day” when you do not want to show up 14:14 The shift from third day to fourth day and why pros look effortless 17:17 Why execution discipline matters more than motivation 19:48 Dre’s anchor: proving himself in sports, business, and speaking 22:03 Why he moved into professional speaking after basketball 24:36 Turning speeches into systems organizations can use 26:52 Stories of impact: dating, recovery, and wrestling practice 29:51 What early YouTube comments showed him about audience demand 31:04 Why his work is really about cutting learning curves and solving problems 33:34 Closing thoughts and thanks Quotes “You can’t plan around motivation because you don’t know when it’s going to be there and you don’t know how much of it you’re going to get.” “The Third Day is all about how do you show up and give your best effort when you least feel like it.” “The question is, are you following the system?” Links Dre Baldwin’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/dre-baldwin/ Dre Baldwin’s Website: https://www.drebaldwin.com/dre-baldwin-keynote-speaker--26974
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#31
August 23 · 30 min
Choosing Joy Through the Journey: Resilience, Connection, and Living Unstoppable – Amberly Lago
Choosing Joy Through the Journey: Resilience, Connection, and Living Unstoppable – Amberly Lago Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Amberly Lago. She shares her powerful journey of overcoming adversity, finding joy through pain, and inspiring others to live unstoppable lives. This episode highlights the importance of connection, gratitude, and resilience in transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. Takeaways · Amberly Lago's personal story of overcoming a motorcycle accident and chronic pain · The importance of connection and community in healing · The role of gratitude and perspective in cultivating resilience · The Unstoppable Life Women Mastermind and its impact · The significance of joy as a strategy during hard times · The story behind the title of Amberly's latest book, 'Joy Through the Journey' · The ripple effect of small acts of kindness and authenticity · Amberly's experience with vulnerability and authenticity on stage and social media · The importance of self-compassion and giving oneself grace · The impact of mentorship and encouragement in personal growth · Resilience is built through perspective shifts and gratitude · Connection with others is a vital part of healing and growth · Small acts of kindness can have profound ripple effects · Joy can be cultivated even in the midst of pain and adversity · Authenticity and vulnerability open doors to opportunities and deeper connections Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amberly Lago's story and achievements 01:22 Amberly's motivation to share her journey of resilience 02:10 The power of connection and community in overcoming adversity 03:35 Amberly's childhood experiences of cheering others on 05:00 The inception of the Unstoppable Life Women Mastermind 06:55 The impact of the 'Unstoppable' event during the pandemic 07:24 The inspiration behind the book 'Joy Through the Journey' 10:05 Understanding joy versus happiness in difficult times 11:09 Amberly's diagnosis with complex regional pain syndrome 12:28 Using gratitude and perspective to spark joy 14:21 The Spark methodology and Kindle Connection 16:09 A pivotal moment that deepened Amberly’s connection to others 20:25 The story of the sparkling water that inspired sobriety 24:40 The importance of being a good human and living with heart 28:21 Reflecting on pride and personal growth in the past year 29:31 Closing thoughts and encouragement to live unstoppable Quotes "You have a PhD in heart." "You never know who's watching." "You are a light in the world." Links Amberly Lago’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/amberly-lago/ Amberly Lago’s Website: https://amberlylago.com/ Amberly Lago’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlylago/ Amberly Lago’s Podcast: https://amberlylago.com/podcast Amberly Lago’s Book: https://amberlylago.com/books
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#30
August 17 · 33 min
Leading Without the Mask: Vulnerability, Mental Health, and Moving One Step Forward – Will Craig
Leading Without the Mask: Vulnerability, Mental Health, and Moving One Step Forward – Will Craig Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Will Craig. He shares his journey from childhood love of writing to authoring a book on mental health and vulnerability. He discusses overcoming personal challenges, the importance of authenticity, and how to navigate life's heavy burdens with resilience and purpose. Takeaways · Will Craig's journey from childhood to author · The importance of storytelling in mental health · Overcoming depression and suicidal ideation · The impact of caring family and community · The significance of being authentic and true to oneself · Lessons learned from childhood medical challenges · The role of vulnerability in leadership and growth · The importance of living in the present moment · Authenticity and vulnerability are powerful tools for personal growth. · Sharing your story can help others feel less alone. · Focusing on being a good human being is more important than perfection. · Time is the most valuable resource we have, use it wisely. · Letting go of the past is essential for moving forward. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Will Craig and his work 00:59 Will's journey from childhood love of writing to authoring a book 05:05 Overcoming depression and sharing vulnerable stories 08:56 The importance of authenticity and not caring what others think 12:09 Will's medical challenges and their impact on his life 14:49 The power of living in the present and valuing time 19:02 Letting go of the past and focusing on the future 30:01 Advice for those carrying heavy burdens 31:56 How to connect with Will Craig and his work Quotes "There is hope on the other side." "Be the good human being you always were." "Never be a prisoner of your past." Links Will Craig’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/will-craig/ Will Craig’s Website: https://willcraigspeaks.com/ Will Craig’s Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/mental_health_with_will Will Craig’s Podcast: https://willcraigspeaks.com/#podcast Will Craig’s Book: https://a.co/d/0a9nEI7E
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#29
August 2 · 41 min
Charge Into The Storm: Building A Mindset That Won't Break
Charge Into the Storm: Building a Mindset That Won't Break Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Marcus Ogden. He shares his remarkable journey from NFL success to facing near bankruptcy, and his inspiring comeback story. Learn about resilience, discipline, and the strategies that helped him rebuild his life and business. Takeaways · Marcus Ogden's NFL career and lessons learned · The importance of being your own CEO · Discipline and daily routines for success · Overcoming financial and personal setbacks · Building a personal brand and reputation · The role of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership · The mindset needed to push through adversity · Never tell your mind negative thoughts in a joking manner; words cast spells. · Your mindset can bend but not break; perseverance is key. · Authenticity and vulnerability build trust and relatability. · Speed and responsiveness impress clients and partners. · The importance of continuous improvement of assets and skills. · Internal attributes like grit and discipline determine success. · The 'charge into the storm' mentality helps overcome challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Marcus Ogden's Remarkable Journey 01:25 NFL Career and Lessons in Leadership 02:21 The Importance of Being Your Own CEO 03:20 Discipline and Daily Routines for Success 04:42 Facing Financial Ruin and Personal Setbacks 06:56 Going Back to Rock Bottom and Reflection 08:48 The Power of Self-Accountability 09:48 Starting Over and Building a New Path 11:16 The Built for the Storm Framework 12:44 Growing a Personal Brand and Podcast 13:20 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Mindset Challenges 15:03 The Four V's of Life and Perseverance 17:21 The Grind of Building a Speaking Career 19:15 Creating Assets and Increasing Perceived Value 23:31 The Business of Speaking and Client Relationships 29:36 Learning from Feedback and Improving 32:01 Proud Moments and Achievements 34:22 The Power of Authenticity and Vulnerability 36:00 Customizing Presentations for Impact 37:27 The Importance of Speed and Communication 39:14 Making the Event About the Audience 40:22 Final Words: Internal Attributes for Success Quotes “Be your own CEO. Be your own chief executive officer.” “Never tell your mind negative thoughts in a joking manner. Your body cannot disseminate the difference. Words cast spells. That’s why it’s called spelling.” “Smooth seas never made skilled sailors.” Links Marques Ogden’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/marques-ogden/ Marques Ogden’s Website: https://www.marquesogden.com/ Marques Ogden’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquesogden/
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#28
July 27 · 39 min
Evolved Leadership: Where Love and High Standards Build Elite Teams
Evolved Leadership: Where Love and High Standards Build Elite Teams Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Mike Sarraille. He shares insights from his military career and how it translates into leadership and culture in the business world. Discover practical strategies for building high-performing teams, fostering a strong culture, and leading with purpose. Takeaways · Transition from military to business leadership · Building and maintaining organizational culture · The importance of accountability and learning from failure · Micro events and team cohesion · Attracting and retaining top talent · Leadership behavior and culture reproduction · Resilience and adaptability in organizations · Leadership is about behavior, not just words. · Culture is what you do when no one is watching. · Fail fast, learn faster: success is a lifelong pursuit of excellence. · Build a culture of trust, accountability, and love. · Micro events and shared hardship forge unbreakable bonds. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:38 Transferring military leadership to business 04:04 Reframing accountability and culture 07:23 The importance of culture in high performance 08:34 Family vs. team: building conditional performance 13:45 The brotherhood and bonds forged in adversity 17:03 Learning from failure and resilience 20:40 Attracting top talent and building a magnetic culture 24:52 Leadership as behavior and culture as reproduction 30:12 Handling accountability with grace and empathy 36:56 Creating a passionate, purpose-driven culture 37:38 Proud moments: honoring fallen heroes Quotes "Leadership is about behavior, not words." "Culture is what you do when no one is watching." "Love and high standards go hand in hand." Links Mike Sarraille’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/mike-sarraille/ Mike Sarraille’s Website: https://mikesarraille.com/ Mike Sarraille’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelsarraille/ Mike Sarraille’s Books: https://mikesarraille.com/body-of-work/ The Unsung of Arlington, A FOX Nation Original Series https://www.fox.com/detail/series/SER276252DZAK/the-unsung-of-arlington
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#27
July 19 · 28 min
Shiftward: How Small Shifts Create Sustainable Change
Shiftward: How Small Shifts Create Sustainable Change Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Rich Bracken. He shares his journey from being a DJ to a keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and organizational culture. Discover practical insights on change management, performance, and how investing in emotional skills can lead to a 22x ROI. Takeaways · Rich Bracken's transition from DJ to speaker · The role of emotional intelligence in leadership · Change management and making change stick · The impact of organizational culture on performance · Practical tips for improving emotional skills · The significance of psychological safety in teams · Rich's book 'Shift Word' on adaptability and change · The power of engaging and moving audiences Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rich Bracken 01:12 From DJ to Keynote Speaker 04:03 Creating Memorable Experiences 07:36 Understanding Emotional Intelligence 10:38 The Launch of 'Shift Word' 14:50 Focus on the Feeling 18:38 The Importance of Emotional Metrics 21:37 Valuing Employees and Building Culture 24:14 Investing in Emotional Intelligence for Success Quotes "Up to 58% of your performance is dictated by emotional intelligence." "Focus on the feeling, not just the numbers." "Invest in emotional intelligence for a 22x ROI." Links Rich Bracken’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/rich-bracken/ Rich Bracken’s Website: https://www.richbracken.com/ Rich Bracken’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-bracken Rich Bracken’s Book: https://www.richbracken.com/book
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#26
July 13 · 41 min
The Compassion Advantage: Transforming Leadership with Heart
The Compassion Advantage: Transforming Leadership with Heart Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Dr. Andrea Hollingsworth. She explores the transformative power of compassion in leadership, sharing personal stories, practical strategies, and insights on how genuine human connection can improve organizational culture and individual well-being. Takeaways · The role of compassion in leadership and organizational success · Personal stories illustrating the impact of compassionate leadership · Strategies for having tough but caring conversations · The importance of self-compassion for leaders · Balancing empathy and efficiency in HR and management · The ripple effect of compassionate leadership on families and communities · Research insights on positive-to-negative interaction ratios · Practical tips for supporting teams during change and burnout Chapters 00:00 The Power of Compassion in Leadership 02:30 Personal Stories Shaping Compassionate Leadership 06:10 Formative Moments and Their Impact 09:30 Balancing Tough Love and Compassion 10:00 The Role of HR in Compassionate Leadership 12:44 Strategies for Difficult Conversations 19:16 Compassionate Leadership in Action 22:50 Navigating Transitions with Compassion 29:00 The Power of Positive Interactions 35:09 Self-Compassion in Leadership 38:51 Supporting Teams Through Change Quotes "Compassion has been valued for millennia." "Balance empathy with efficiency for true leadership." "Wounded people wound, transformed people transform." Links Andrea Hollingsworth’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/andrea-hollingsworth/ Andrea Hollingsworth’s Website: https://hollingsworthconsulting.com/ Andrea Hollingsworth’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-hollingsworth-ph-d-0644058b/ Andrea Hollingsworth’s Book: https://hollingsworthconsulting.com/book/
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#25
July 6 · 32 min
Become Unbreakable: How to Lead, Perform, and Last
Become Unbreakable: How to Lead, Perform, and Last Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Erin Stafford. She shares her incredible journey from leading hyper-growth in healthcare staffing to becoming a successful speaker. She discusses strategies for avoiding burnout, the importance of small daily shifts, and how to turn corporate experience into a thriving speaking career. Takeaways · Growth strategies in healthcare staffing · Burnout prevention and resilience · Career transition from corporate to speaking · Mindset shifts for high achievers · Calendar management and prioritization techniques · Building a speaking business from scratch · The importance of small daily changes · Recognizing and addressing burnout signs Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Erin Stafford 01:23 Journey of Hyper-Growth in Healthcare Staffing 03:14 Challenges of Team Growth and Leadership 06:19 Transitioning to Speaking and Writing 08:40 The Type A Trap: Insights from the Book 11:15 Key Strategies for Managing Burnout 17:03 Pride in Achievements and Future Aspirations 20:42 Developing New Digital Products 23:54 Understanding Burnout and Personal Growth Quotes "Before you leave the house, take one thing off" "What are the socks of your calendar?" "Is your routine building your past or your future?" Links Erin Stafford’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/erin-stafford/ Erin Stafford’s Website: http://www.erinstafford.com/ Erin Stafford’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinstafford/ Erin Stafford’s Book: https://www.erinstafford.com/book
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#24
June 29 · 33 min
Why Not? - The Key to Unlocking Your Potential
Why Not? - The Key to Unlocking Your Potential Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Ryan Lavarnway. He shares his journey from a Major League Baseball player to a leadership speaker, emphasizing resilience, embracing failure, and the power of asking 'Why not?' to unlock potential. Takeaways · Resilience in sports and life · The importance of failure as a learning tool · The 'Why not?' mindset for overcoming self-doubt · Leadership lessons from baseball and business · The role of confidence and action in success · Failure is a necessary step on the journey to success. · The 'Why not?' question opens doors to new possibilities. · Action creates evidence and confidence. · Focus on your strengths and build them strong. · Embrace the hard moments and learn from them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Lavarnway's Journey 02:16 Transitioning from Player to Coach 05:04 Lessons Learned from Adversity 08:28 Navigating Change and Setbacks 12:50 Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone 15:10 The Power of Action and Mindset 19:55 Discovering a New Path in Speaking 22:01 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear 24:17 The Importance of Small Wins 29:30 The 'Why Not' Mindset 32:35 Conclusion and Call to Action Quotes "Action is what creates evidence to give you confidence." "Never let the fear of striking out stop you from playing the game." "Why not gives you permission to explore possibility." Links Ryan Lavarnway’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/ryan-lavarnway/ Ryan Lavarnway’s Website: https://ryanlavarnway.com/ Ryan Lavarnway’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-lavarnway/
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#23
June 22 · 45 min
The Spirit of TA DA: When Work Becomes Play
The Spirit of TA DA: When Work Becomes Play Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Joel Zeff. He shares his journey from improv comedy to becoming a renowned keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of celebration, ownership, and positive support in leadership and teamwork. Discover practical strategies to foster engagement and create a thriving workplace culture. Takeaways Joel Zeff's journey from improv to keynote speaker The importance of celebration and positive support in teams How ownership drives engagement and success The role of fun and joy in workplace culture Practical strategies for leaders to motivate teams Celebrating small wins daily fuels passion and engagement. Ownership and positive support are essential for team success. Fun and joy are vital components of a thriving workplace. Improv teaches valuable lessons about teamwork and adaptability. Leaders should ask, 'How do I help my team succeed?' Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joel Zeff and His Journey 03:11 The Evolution of Improv and Speaking Career 05:56 The Power of Improv in Business 08:54 Celebrating Success: The Ta-Da Philosophy 11:52 Finding Joy and Fun in Work 20:49 Creating Ownership and Passion in Teams 25:30 The Power of Ownership in Team Success 27:57 The Importance of Positive Support 30:00 Helping Others Find Success 30:59 Insights from a Diverse Career 35:01 Stories from the Stage 42:57 Wrapping Up with Key Takeaways Quotes "Celebrate the small ta-dub moments every day" "Opportunity creates joy and fun in work" "Ask, how do I help my team find success?" Links Joel Zeff’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/joel-zeff/ Joel Zeff’s Website: https://www.joelzeff.com/ Joel Zeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/ Joel Zeff’s Book: https://www.joelzeff.com/book
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#22
June 15 · 55 min
Choose Your Attitude, Create Your Life
Choose Your Attitude, Create Your Life Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Nick Strand. He shares his incredible journey from touring with legendary artists to building resilience through personal adversity. Discover his impactful framework 'Attitude + Action = Impact' and learn how to overcome challenges, foster human connection, and live with purpose. Takeaways · Resilience and overcoming adversity · The 'Attitude + Action = Impact' framework · The power of human connection in personal and professional life · Attitude + Action = Impact · Five Attributes of Success: Connection, Authenticity, Consistency, Self-Empowerment, Urgency of Time Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Strand's Journey 02:49 The Thrill of Touring and Human Connection 05:46 Memorable Experiences in Live Events 08:45 The Impact of Personal Adversity 12:13 Transitioning to Speaking and Sharing Lessons 15:03 Finding Purpose Through Pain 17:51 The Power of Attitude and Resilience 30:18 Turning Adversity into Purpose 31:10 The Framework of Attitude, Action, and Impact 40:11 The Power of Community and Connection 44:12 Attributes of Transformation 51:52 Applying Lessons in Business and Life Quotes "Choose your attitude, create your life." "Lizzo understood human connection." "She was told she would die by 13." Links Nick Strand’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/nick-strand/ Nick Strand’s Website: https://www.thenickstrand.com/speaking Nick Strand’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenickstrand/ Nick Strand’s Book: https://a.co/d/0hd1fWp8
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#21
June 8 · 53 min
Life Undeferred: The Identity Shift That Changes Everything
Life Undeferred: The Identity Shift That Changes Everything Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Jerrid Sebesta. He shares his transformative journey from meteorology to high-performance coaching. Discover how internal shifts, belief rewiring, and surrender can unlock greater peace, happiness, and success. Takeaways · The shift from meteorology to coaching and personal development · The importance of internal beliefs and programming · How to increase capacity for receiving and success Chapters 00:00 From Meteorology to Transformation Coaching 03:00 The Pressure of Live Broadcasting 06:05 Discovering Passion and Purpose 11:47 Awakening to a New Path 16:02 Increasing Capacity for Success 21:59 Foundational Truths for Personal Growth 25:56 Reprogramming the Subconscious Mind 27:21 Reigniting Desire for Success 29:15 Rewiring Beliefs and Self-Worth 37:44 The Power of Surrender and Detachment 41:32 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities Quotes "Life is a reflection of your programming." "Your main reason here is to receive." "Peace is a byproduct of inner shifts." Links Jerrid Sebesta’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/jerrid-sebesta/ Jerrid Sebesta’s Website: https://www.jerridsebesta.com/ Jerrid Sebesta’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerridsebesta/ Jerrid Sebesta’s Book: https://a.co/d/0eU3Kuw3
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#20
June 2 · 56 min
The Vibe: Why Culture Beats Strategy Every Time
The Vibe: Why Culture Beats Strategy Every Time Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Kelly Cardenas. He shares his journey from business owner to influential speaker, emphasizing the importance of culture, vibe, and authentic communication in creating successful organizations and impactful experiences. Discover practical strategies to enhance team engagement, build culture, and deliver memorable live events. Takeaways · The importance of culture and vibe in business · Reverse engineering business success through culture · The role of communication in leadership and culture · Creating memorable live experiences with The Vibe Room · The ripple effect of speaking life into people · Culture is an environment suitable for growth, not static. · The vibe is about how people feel when you leave, not just energy. · Authentic communication involves understanding the language of others. · Creating experiences like The Vibe Room can transform lives and businesses. · Speaking life and recognizing unsung heroes boosts morale and performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Cardenas 02:20 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:50 Understanding the Vibe 12:02 Defining Culture in Business 15:24 Communication and Culture 20:15 Speaking Life into Employees 27:32 The Ripple Effect of Positive Culture 30:10 The Importance of Being Seen and Heard 31:53 Creating a Culture of Value 33:01 Introducing the Vibroom Experience 40:09 The Magic of Connection at the Vibroom 41:59 Building Your Own Stage 45:18 Expanding the Vibroom Experience 48:23 The Ripple Effect of Impactful Experiences Quotes "Most challenges come down to communication." "Love the people, manage the system." "Leave every place better than you found it." Links Kelly Cardenas’ Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/kelly-cardenas/ Kelly Cardenas’ Website: https://www.kellycardenas.com/ Kelly Cardenas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-cardenas/ Kelly Cardenas’ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Vibe-Missing-Ingredient-Changes-Everything-ebook/dp/B0CKNV93XR
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#19
May 18 · 40 min
Unmuted: Overcome Fear and Embrace Your Voice
Unmuted: Overcome Fear and Embrace Your Voice Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Rachel Druckenmiller. She shares her journey from burnout to boldness, including her incredible experience singing the national anthem at Camden Yards and her insights on overcoming fear, building confidence, and living a life that makes you feel alive. Takeaways · Rachel's journey from corporate burnout to full-time speaker · The transformative power of visualization and self-belief · Overcoming fear and stepping into big opportunities · The importance of physical and emotional strength in personal growth · Saying yes to opportunities can lead to life-changing experiences. · Visualization and feeling the success before it happens primes your mind. · Surrounding yourself with supportive people accelerates growth. · Physical strength boosts mental and emotional resilience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rachel Druckenmiller 02:02 Rachel’s Background and Path to Speaking 03:36 Leaving Corporate for Full-Time Speaking 07:14 The Impact of the Pandemic on Rachel’s Business 08:46 Rachel’s Near-Death Experience and Recovery 14:00 Physical and Emotional Healing Journey 18:10 Rachel’s Dream to Sing the National Anthem 20:24 The Surprise Opportunity at Camden Yards 22:10 Preparing for the Big Stage 24:09 Building a Foundation for a Bigger Life 25:31 Advice for Feeling Stuck and Building Confidence 28:07 Visualization and Materialization of Dreams 32:51 The Power of Belief and Taking Action 34:38 Rachel’s Future Goals and Dreams 38:34 Allowing the Unfolding of Your Life Journey 39:07 Closing Remarks and Follow Rachel’s Journey Quotes "You get one life. Take a chance." "What's it costing you to hold back?" "Don't rob us of your contribution. Show up." Links Rachel Druckenmiller’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/rachel-druckenmiller/ Rachel Druckenmiller’s Website: https://www.racheldruckenmiller.com/ Rachel Druckenmiller’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbdruckenmiller/
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#18
May 11 · 30 min
Inspired By It: The Strategy and Mindset for Sustainable Success
Inspired By It: The Strategy and Mindset for Sustainable Success Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Brian Reynolds. He shares his journey from starting at Coca-Cola at 17 to building a social media following of over 250,000. He discusses goal setting, authenticity, consistency, and the importance of thinking long-term to achieve success in both personal and professional life. Takeaways · Goal setting and achievement over two decades · Building an authentic personal brand · The role of consistency and authenticity in social media success · Writing down goals increases the likelihood of achievement. · Authenticity and consistency are crucial for social media growth. · Thinking long-term (2-3 decades) is more effective than short-term goals. · Overcoming fear of failure is essential for progress. · Building a supportive circle helps sustain motivation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian Reynolds 01:20 Brian's Journey and Goal Setting 05:03 Transitioning to Social Media and Authenticity 11:45 The Impact of Inspirational Content 16:20 Motivational Speaking and Encouraging Youth 22:41 Overcoming Obstacles and Consistency 28:41 The Importance of Passion and Genuine Impact Quotes "Authentic content resonates most" "Persistence beats talent" "Everyone has bad days, push through" Links Bryan Reynold’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/bryan-reynolds/ Bryan Reynold’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-reynolds-8897b845/
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#17
May 4 · 27 min
All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose
All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Rashmi Airan. She shares her powerful journey from a successful attorney to facing prison, and how her experiences shaped her approach to leadership, decision-making, and resilience. This episode explores the importance of self-awareness, recognizing red flags, and making better choices under pressure. Takeaways · The importance of self-awareness in decision-making · Recognizing and acting on red flags in professional relationships · The impact of emotional reactions on critical decisions · The 'Clarity Loop' process for better choices under pressure · Resilience and personal growth after facing adversity · All of us are capable of drift, especially under pressure. · Listening to your inner voice can prevent costly mistakes. · The 'Clarity Loop' involves four questions to improve decision quality. · Red flags are often ignored because of emotional reactions. · Personal adversity can be a catalyst for growth and leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rashmi Aaron's Journey 01:16 From Attorney to Prison: A Life-Altering Experience 07:42 Lessons Learned: The Drift and Decision-Making 13:31 The Clarity Loop: A Framework for Better Decisions 18:43 Rebuilding Life After Prison: A New Purpose 24:44 The Launch of 'All Rise': Sharing the Story Quotes "Good people with good intentions can drift" "I turned a blind eye to the red flags" "Too good to be true is a red flag" Links Rashmi Airan’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/rashmi-airan/ Rashmi Airan’s Website: https://rashmiairan.com/ Rashmi Airan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashmia
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#16
April 27 · 33 min
Reset with Resilience: Overcoming Setbacks and Moving Forward
Reset with Resilience: Overcoming Setbacks and Moving Forward Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Mandy Gill. She shares her journey from resilience in personal setbacks to ultra endurance athletics, emphasizing the importance of resilience, ownership, and mindset in overcoming life's challenges. Discover practical frameworks like 'First Attempt in Living' and 'Catch It, Check It, Change It' to boost your resilience and performance. Takeaways · Resilience in personal and professional life · The 'First Attempt in Living' framework · Overcoming setbacks in ultra endurance sports · The importance of mindset and ownership · Practical resilience strategies for everyday life Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mandy Gill and Her Journey 03:10 The Importance of Resilience in Life 06:09 Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Building Resilience 09:11 Fear of Failure and the First Attempt in Living 12:11 The Balance of Rest and Performance 15:06 Challenges in Ultra-Endurance Athletics 24:04 Lessons from Setbacks and Failures 29:55 Framework for Moving Forward: Catch It, Check It, Change It Quotes "Self-sabotage is a major roadblock." "Catch it, check it, change it." "Where focus goes, energy flows." Links Mandy Gill’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/mandy-gill/ Mandy Gill’s Website: https://www.mandygill.com/ Mandy Gill’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandygilldotcom/ Mandy Gill’s Book: https://www.mandygill.com/book
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