On today’s McCoy Leadership Podcast, we dove deep with Jen Hardy, COO at MotiveAction Academy, all about transformation, burnout, and courageous leadership. Jen shared her personal journey from exhausted educator to championing self-mastery and resilience for high-stress professionals. We talked actionable tips on breaking the "yes syndrome," the power of pausing before you react, building emotional literacy, and why leadership today is all about communication and self-awareness. If you’re ready to elevate your impact as a leader and support those around you, this episode is packed with insight you can use right now.

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00:00 Career Shift Through Self-Discovery

04:12 Overcoming Burnout: Choosing Change

10:24 Teacher Support Urgently Needed

12:31 Enhancing Classroom Leadership Skills

16:13 "Yes Syndrome Culture"

19:33 The Power of Choice

22:05 Avoiding Saying "No"

26:24 "Managing Stress in High-Stress Jobs"

29:40 Journey to Self-Leadership Basics

31:36 Rethinking Work-Life Balance Myths

34:18 Redefining Retirement and Self-Mastery

39:24 Neuroscience in Leadership Decision-Making

41:20 Driving Results Through Self-Leadership

46:19 "Take a Moment to Reflect"

51:14 "Communication: Foundation for Resilience"

53:24 ChatGPT: Lifesaver for Entrepreneurs

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Jen's website

Linkedin

Book Recommendation

Already Free

Today on the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Greg Kaiser, founder of Management Mastery Solutions, to dive deep into what actually turns managers into great leaders. Greg shared his journey from the corporate mail room to executive ranks, and highlighted the crucial need for real training—especially in communication—to bridge the gap between managing and leading. We explored why complacency can stall growth, the importance of purpose-driven motivation, and practical frameworks to empower teams at every level. If you’re looking to elevate your leadership game or strengthen your management skills, you won’t want to miss these insights!

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 Leadership Insights with Greg Kaiser

04:37 Settling for Mediocrity in Hiring

07:26 Construction Industry Resilience: 2008 Downturn

11:49 Framework for Evaluating Management Success

15:43 Early Morning Office Routine

18:48 Effective Communication for Business Success

20:45 "Legacy Beyond Business Policies"

26:26 Management and Leadership Overlap

28:44 Leadership Focus and Congruence

30:56 "Prioritize Connection Over Communication"

36:15 "Rethinking Mentorship Approach"

37:42 "The Value of Personal Connection"

41:12 Rapid-Fire Questions for Guests

45:31 Embracing AI as Productivity Tool

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Here are my top 3 takeaways for managers and aspiring leaders:

🔹 Build a Foundation of Communication: Communication is the bridge between management and leadership. It’s not about grand speeches but about connecting strategy to daily operations and making sure your team understands their purpose and value.

🔹 Don’t Confuse Goals with Metrics: It’s easy to give teams lofty goals, but real progress comes from setting clear, measurable targets. Break down goals into actionable steps and regularly review what’s working (and what’s not).

🔹 Embrace Continuous Learning & Mentorship: No matter your experience, there’s always more to learn. Seek out mentors (inside or outside your organization), invest in your development, and share useful insights with your team to help everyone grow.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Greg's website

Linkedin

Book Recommendation

The Effective Executive

Today on the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Brenda Neckvatal—three-time bestselling author and award-winning human results professional. Brenda shared lessons from her wild HR journey, from crisis management to navigating generational shifts in the workplace. She broke down why understanding core values is essential for effective leadership and how emotional intelligence can prevent workplace drama. Plus, Brenda gave us her best communication tools, like the power of “help me understand.” If you want to elevate your leadership game, this episode is packed with practical insight and real-world advice you can use right away.

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00:00 Handling Workplace Crises Professionally

03:44 HR Evolution: Generational Leadership Shift

09:04 Predictable Differences in People

11:05 EEO Over DEI: A Hiring Perspective

13:35 Discrimination Claim Despite Qualifications

18:29 Endless Arguments; Move Forward

20:29 Flexible Executive Decision-Making Approach

24:32 "Daily Acts of Kindness"

28:57 CarMax's Customer-First Core Value

31:02 Effective Leadership Evaluation

34:53 Fair Leadership and Customer Focus

39:23 Identifying and Managing Excuses

41:15 "Coach's Teaching Moment"

46:10 Advice for Future School Leaders

50:05 Gen Z Trust Challenges

52:45 Subscribe & Get Episode Worksheets

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Here are my top 3 takeaways from the episode:

• Lead with Principles, Not Preferences: Brenda emphasized the importance of leaders anchoring their decisions and interactions in core values and company principles. It’s the foundation for consistency, fairness, and building trust within teams.

• Emotional Intelligence Is a Crisis Prevention Tool: Handling difficult personalities and high-stress situations requires more than policy knowledge. Reading the room, managing your own reactions, and approaching conversations with curiosity (her favorite script: “Help me understand…”) can de-escalate drama and create space for genuine resolution.

• Accountability Defines Culture: One powerful stat Brenda shared—out of 40,000 managers, over 38,000 admitted to NOT following through on accountability. If leaders don’t hold people accountable, dysfunction and culture erosion are inevitable. Brenda’s advice: “Just do it—even if it’s awkward.”

Brenda also offers free “Impact Scripts” for having those tough workplace conversations—an awesome tool for anyone looking to level up their leadership communication. (Check her out at heybrenda.com!)

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Brenda's Website

LinkedIn

Book Recommendation

Five Disfunctions of a Team

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Zoe Thompson—a 20-year police veteran turned coach and leadership expert. Zoe shared how resilience, self-awareness, and prioritization fueled her journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship. We discussed the power of aligning success with your core values, why tenacity needs balance, and how even high achievers must adapt their toolkit to grow. Plus, Zoe walked us through her PIPS framework for achieving sustainable, meaningful progress. If you’re feeling stuck or ready to level up your leadership, this episode is packed with takeaways to help you reach your potential.

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 From Police Leader to Business Coach

04:53 "Balancing Tenacity in Leadership"

08:56 Priorities Shift Constantly

10:01 Critical Thinking: Leadership and Adaptability

14:44 Evolving Skills for New Success

19:06 Bridging Leadership Skill Gaps

22:58 Empowering Through Self-Discovery

27:18 "Intent, Identity & Leadership Habits"

28:24 Customizing Leadership for Individual Needs

33:41 Retirement Planning: Exploring True Desires

35:54 Shifting Mindsets from Stuck to Free

40:22 School Curriculum Enhancement Advice

43:52 Tech Nostalgia: Love-Hate Relationship

46:12 "Stay Connected and Informed"

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Zoey's Website

LinkedIn

Book Recommendations

Mindset

The Chimp Paradox

The Coaching Habit

Dare to Lead

On today’s McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Robert J. Hunt, the "Accountability Dude" and co-author of "Nobody Cares Until You Do." We dove deep into the difference between accountability and responsibility, explored how true accountability transforms teams, and learned why proactive leadership is a game-changer for business owners. Robert shared practical strategies to create a culture where people thrive, not just survive—plus, why refilling your tank is crucial for sustainable success. If you’re ready to level up your leadership and build a team that truly cares, you don’t want to miss this episode!

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 Beyond Job Responsibility: True Accountability

04:09 Defeated Mindset in Job Hiring

06:56 Proactive Accountability in Hiring

11:42 Finding Significance in Work

14:38 Optimizing Job Descriptions

17:20 Promote Cross-Training for Vacations

21:46 Balancing Work, Life, and Stress

23:44 Prioritizing Relationships Over Distractions

26:29 Christian Leaders vs Non-Christian Leaders

32:00 Sabbath: Rest, Connection, and Restoration

34:47 "Satisfaction Check and Self-Discovery"

38:53 "Handling a Raise Ultimatum"

40:56 Proactive Financial Education for Employees

44:03 Enhancing Education for Future Leaders

47:25 Using AI for Client Research

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Robert's Website

LinkedIn

youtube

book

Book Recommendations

Experiencing God

Dare to Serve Leadership

Margin

Ever wondered how high achievers can look successful but still feel like they're falling apart inside? On today’s McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Tricia Parido, a visionary speaker and emotional strategist. We dove deep into emotional exhaustion, why being in control isn't the answer, and how important it is to master your own emotional agility. Whether you’re running a business or juggling life at home, Tricia shares powerful tips to help you stop reacting and start leading your life with intention. If you want to thrive, not just survive, you won’t want to miss this episode!

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00:00 "Perfectionism and Control Journey"

05:48 Seeking External Solace

07:38 Coping with Emotional Exhaustion

12:58 Intentional Living: Choosing Your Day

15:01 "Tailored Self-Help Application"

17:41 Effective Business Coaching Strategies

23:04 Knowledge vs. Wisdom: Living Experience

25:20 Emotional Agility in Business

27:07 "Hasty Hiring Analogy"

31:33 Signs of Parental Burnout

33:50 "Digital Interaction vs. Real Connection"

38:04 "Podcast Pitch and Rapid Questions"

42:31 "AI Device Enhances Meeting Recall"

44:40 "Podcast Thanks and Farewell"

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Top three takeaways from the episode:

🔹 Emotional Mastery Drives Sustainable Success: High-achievers can appear outwardly successful while struggling internally. Tricia highlights that understanding and managing our emotions is essential—not just “coping” with stress, but proactively mastering it. It's not about suppressing negative feelings, but being able to sit with them, learn, and move forward.

🔹 Self-Awareness & Tailored Strategies Matter: There is no “one size fits all” solution to emotional health. Effective strategies must be personalized, taking into account how each individual processes emotions, stress, and communication. As Tricia points out, applying the right psychological tactics in a way that fits your unique circumstances is key.

🔹 Emotional Intelligence Should Start Early: One of Tricia’s strongest recommendations? Teach emotional intelligence—real emotional regulation and self-awareness—in our schools. By learning how to manage stress, build impulse control, and foster internal validation, we empower the next generation for healthier leadership and happier lives.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Tricia's Website

https://www.turningleavesrecovery.com/

Linkedin

Tricia book recommendation

https://a.co/d/dA5KSRj

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Andrew Almazan—a powerhouse in scaling businesses and building high-performance teams across hospitality, digital media, and craft brewing. We unpacked the leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurial risk, the importance of assembling the right team, and why connecting—not just communicating—is the key to true leadership impact. Plus, we dove into how bravery, integrity, and leveraging technology like AI all play a role in modern business growth.

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 "From Media to Executive Coaching"

06:14 "Journey to VP of People Operations"

07:49 Career Shift Amid Economic Changes

12:26 Leading Through Diverse Strengths

16:02 Effective Execution of Initiatives

18:55 Communication vs. Connection in Leadership

21:43 Targeting Growth-Oriented Small Business Owners

27:13 Embracing AI: Overcoming Traditional Mindset

28:25 Lonely Leadership Journey

35:22 AI's Role in Content Creation

36:26 Embrace Hardship for Growth

39:48 "Maximize Strengths with Self Audit"

44:05 Advice for Future Leaders

46:21 Podcast Updates & Listener Alerts

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Here are 3 key takeaways that stand out for leaders and aspiring changemakers:

🔹 Scaling Sustainably Starts With People Andrew emphasized that no matter your strategy, it’s the right team and their buy-in that ultimately drive results. Success requires melding analytics with creativity, and ensuring every team member is both seen and heard.

🔹 Bravery & Integrity Are Leadership Cornerstones Stepping out on your own—or into the unknown—takes both courage and a strong moral compass. Andrew’s journey is a reminder that short-term discomfort can lead to long-term fulfillment. Betting on yourself, especially when the path is uncertain, is often the bravest (and most rewarding) move.

🔹 Tech is a Tool, Not a Replacement for Connection AI and digital tools are changing the landscape, but Andrew stresses the importance of marrying innovation with human-centered leadership. Use technology to streamline operations, but never at the expense of authentic connection and integrity.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Andrew's website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Book Recommendations

Be Excellent at Anything

Fierce Conversations

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Marcylle Combs—a powerhouse leader with over 30 years in healthcare and a true champion for people-first leadership. Marcylle shared her unconventional journey from nursing to building and selling multimillion-dollar businesses, the importance of leading with trust, and why hiring people you genuinely like is key to team success. We also dove into how mission work overseas transformed her approach to leadership and why staying true to your values matters most—especially in tough times. If you want actionable tips on thriving as a leader while keeping humanity at the core of your business, this conversation is for you.

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 "Nurse Turned Entrepreneurial Mission"

06:03 Navigating Work and Unexpected Bonds

09:09 "Firing as an Act of Friendship"

11:39 Mixer Incident: Occupational Health Surprise

15:04 Joyful and Confidential Workplace

19:43 Creating Employee Safe Spaces

22:24 Nonprofit Empowerment for Women Workers

26:28 Volunteer Healthcare Missions: A Humbling Experience

30:36 Mission Trips: Challenges and Changes

33:28 Core Values in Decision-Making

35:06 "Values-Driven Decision Making"

40:59 Leadership Expert Advice for Schools

43:53 Employee's Clever Sick Day Excuse

45:26 "Books on Heart and Endings"

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Three key takeaways that every leader (or aspiring leader) should consider:

• Hire for character and fit, not just skills: Marcel’s mantra is to “hire people you actually like.” Build teams where diverse personalities complement one another, but always hire people you’d want to spend time with.

• Anchor every decision to clear values: When faced with tough choices—especially the hardest ones, like layoffs—Marcel advises going back to your organization’s core values. These should be simple, memorable, and actionable for every team member.

• Invest in your people beyond the workplace: From matching PTO for mission trips to fostering emotional support (especially in healthcare settings), empowering your employees to contribute and heal creates lasting loyalty and engagement.

If you haven’t already, check out her new book and give the episode a listen for even more practical leadership advice.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Marcylle's Website

LinkedIn

MAC Legacy

Book Recommendations

Developing the Leader Within You

Anatomy of Peace

Necessary Endings