Episodes

  • Mini-Episode 8#: 19 Important Reasons Why Your Strengths Matter

    Mini-Episode 8#: 19 Important Reasons Why Your Strengths Matter
    Jun 25 2025
    [00:00:00] Suzie Price: welcome to this wake up egear workforce podcast many episode where we share in 10 minutes or less our monthly article from LinkedIn in a new audio format courtesy of our AI co host as they walk through the article and share additional insights exclusively for you I am Suzie Price I'm your podcast host and the founder of Priceless Professional Development and whether you're listening to one of our long form episodes or something like this mini episode our focus is always to provide everything to you related to helping employees in your organization build a high commitment low drama wake up eager workforce we're focused on creating great hiring creating great teams helping leaders and individuals wake up eager you can find all of our episodes long form and short form at Wake Up Eagle workforce.com and you can subscribe anywhere that you get your podcasts so let me know if you have any questions if you are enjoying these mini episodes or any of our other episodes or if I can help you in any way you can find me at Susie at priceless professional. com Suzie Price on LinkedIn and of course our contact information if you go to wake up eager workforce.com thanks for tuning in appreciate you very much and go out and have a wake up eager kind of day take care [00:01:23] AI 1 : welcome to the Deep Dive so you sent us this really interesting article all about focusing on strengths and why that well why it matters today we're gonna dig into that source [00:01:35] AI 2 : that's right and our mission really is to unpack it go beyond just a summary we want to get at the core ideas understand the case it's making for why you know using your natural strengths is supposed to be so [00:01:47] AI 1 : critical critical for well being success all of that exactly [00:01:51] AI 2 : according to the research they cite yeah for personal happiness and professional stuff [00:01:55] AI 1 : okay let's get into it then the article starts by defining strengths but maybe not how everyone thinks about them it's not just skills right [00:02:03] AI 2 : right exactly the source is quite specific strengths here are um more than just things you've Learned it talks about preferences innate characteristics like natural inclinations yeah the stuff that feels authentic your unique wiring essentially [00:02:15] AI 1 : ah okay so less about Learned competence more about what feels natural what gives you energy what's really you you got it [00:02:23] AI 2 : it's where talent meets enjoyment basically and the core idea the main premise this article puts forward it's pretty bold actually oh yeah what is it it says knowing and crucially using these strengths daily is essential like fundamental for consistent happiness motivation [00:02:41] AI 1 : and for creating what it calls a wake up eager life [00:02:44] AI 2 : I saw that phrase that's the one wake up eager definitely has appeal doesn't it the opposite of that Sunday night feeling [00:02:50] AI 1 : no definitely so it makes this big claim does it back it up [00:02:53] AI 2 : it does and this is where it gets really interesting it doesn't just assert this it lays out well the outline you saw mentioned 19 specific reasons 19 wow yeah citing research studies Gallup comes up quite a bit yeah it presents a lot of evidence for why this daily focus makes such a difference [00:03:09] AI 1 : okay 19 reasons that's a solid case they're trying to build where does it start what's the first area of impact [00:03:14] AI 2 : it starts inwards looking at the impact on you personally your well being the research cited suggest when you use your strengths every day you're way more likely to feel energized well rested happy even energized and well rested [00:03:28] AI 1 : that alone sounds good [00:03:29] AI 2 : and also more likely to feel respected and proud so it hits on a few different levels [00:03:35] AI 1 : so physical energy emotional state self perception too [00:03:39] AI 2 : covers a lot of ground yeah and it also connects using strengths to experiencing flow you know that state [00:03:47] AI 1 : oh yeah where you just get lost in something [00:03:49] AI 2 : time disappears exactly that absorbed challenge maybe but engaged and you feel this sense of accomplishment being in your element [00:03:57] AI 1 : flow is definitely something people chase after so strengths help you find that more often [00:04:01] AI 2 : according to this source yes yeah and some of the data points are quite striking like individuals using their strengths daily they're reported to be three times more likely to say they have an excellent quality of life [00:04:11] AI 1 : three times just from using strength daily that's that's huge [00:04:15] AI 2 : it really is it kind of elevates the whole idea doesn't it it's not just being good at stuff right it sounds more fundamental yeah the article really emphasizes that tapping into these natural talents increases well ...
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    14 mins
  • The Only Four Questions You’ll Ever Need: Hiring & Leading with Wisdom

    The Only Four Questions You’ll Ever Need: Hiring & Leading with Wisdom
    Jun 18 2025
    Episode Overview: In this episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce Podcast, host Suzie Price sits down with executive consultant and author Allan DeNiro to challenge everything you thought you knew about hiring. Together, they explore a radically simple—but deeply human—approach to finding the right people. Allan shares his "Only Four Questions" method, a powerful behavioral interviewing model that shifts focus away from resumes and rigid criteria and toward real conversation, cultural fit, and character. You’ll hear how these questions uncover a candidate’s motivations, deal breakers, and values—saving teams from costly hiring misfires and setting the stage for long-term success. Suzie and Allan also dive into the surprising reasons most hires fail (hint: it’s not skill), the leadership lessons Allan learned from icons like Ted Turner, and why being curious, listening more, and keeping your ego in check might be the most effective leadership tools you’ll ever use. Plus, don’t miss the Wellbeing 2.0 segment with Douglas White, who unpacks how emotional alignment and self-awareness can help leaders show up more fully—on and off the field. Whether you’re building a team, refining your hiring process, or trying to lead with more impact and intention, this episode will inspire you to slow down, ask better questions, and lead with wisdom. Read the transcript for Episode 132 below and discover how four intentional questions can help you hire smarter, lead stronger, and grow a Wake Up Eager workforce. Takeaways of Episode #132 --- Ditch the Resume. Ask These Four Questions Instead. Allan DeNiro flips the traditional interview script with just four open-ended questions—questions that uncover who someone truly is, not just what’s printed on their resume. His radically simple approach helps leaders avoid hiring disasters by getting to the heart of a candidate’s values, motivations, and fit. The magic? Talk less. Listen more. And ask what really matters. Most People Fail at Work for One Reason—And It’s Not What You Think. According to Allan, 90% of job failures aren't about technical skills—they’re about poor cultural fit and low self-awareness. That’s why his method—and the TriMetrix assessments Suzie uses—zero in on who someone is, not just what they’ve done. It’s about hiring humans, not resumes. Your Deal Breakers Might Be the Key to Your Best Hire. One of Allan’s four questions invites candidates to reveal their “deal breakers”—those hidden non-negotiables that cause quick exits. Why? Because identifying misalignments before the offer prevents costly “train wrecks” later. It’s a game-changing mindset shift: Interviews aren’t just for vetting candidates—they're also a moment to protect culture and momentum Episode Recap: Suzie Price welcomes leadership consultant, author, and executive advisor Allan DeNiro to the show for a deeply insightful conversation on hiring, leadership, and the power of listening. With decades of experience helping organizations make better people decisions, Allan introduces his transformative “Only Four Questions” approach to interviewing—designed to uncover the values, motivations, and cultural fit that traditional resumes often miss. Through practical examples and personal reflections, Allan reveals why most hiring mistakes come from ignoring fit, not skills, and how asking the right open-ended questions can prevent costly misalignments. He also shares leadership lessons from his career, including the importance of humility, having a “contrarian” in your corner, and always leading with curiosity and clarity. Listeners will leave with fresh tools for building stronger teams—whether you’re hiring a new employee or mentoring your next leader. From deal breakers to culture protection, this episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to lead and hire with greater purpose. The episode wraps with the Wellbeing 2.0 segment featuring Douglas White, who brings powerful insights on emotional resilience, leadership presence, and aligning with your excellence—reminding us that how we feel is feedback that fuels high performance. In this episode: [00:28:39] Suzie Price: “People want to be seen, heard, and understood—and that doesn’t happen with resumes. It happens when we take time to ask and truly listen.” [00:43:30] Allan DeNiro: “If a person’s dealbreakers don’t line up with your company’s culture, no amount of skill can make that work long-term.” [01:02:28] Suzie Price: “When we stop talking and really listen, we open the door to insight—not just about others, but about ourselves as leaders.” [01:09:22] Allan DeNiro : “The best leaders I’ve met aren’t the loudest—they’re the ones asking the best questions ...
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    1 hr and 51 mins
  • Mini-Episode 7#: Living a Life of Purpose Without Regret

    Mini-Episode 7#: Living a Life of Purpose Without Regret
    Jun 10 2025

    [00:00:00] Suzie Price Welcome to this Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast mini-episode, where we share our monthly LinkedIn article in 10 minutes or less in a new audio format—thanks to our AI co-hosts. I’m Suzie Price, your host and founder of Priceless Professional Development. Whether you're listening to our long-form episodes or something like this, our focus is always on helping leaders and teams build a high-commitment, low-drama Wake Up Eager Workforce. We cover topics like hiring, building great teams, and waking up eager. Find all our episodes at wakeupeagerworkforce.com or subscribe anywhere you get your podcasts. Let me know if you’re enjoying these mini episodes or if I can help in any way. You can reach me at suzie@pricelessprofessional.com or connect on LinkedIn. Thanks for tuning in—go out and have a Wake Up Eager kind of day! Here’s a powerful moment from this month’s article—an 80-year-old friend, in tears, saying: “This is not how I wanted my life to turn out.”

    [00:01:27] AI 1 That moment really stops you. It brings up that deep sense of regret or the constant questioning we sometimes feel—am I spending my time in alignment with what really matters? What’s all of this really for?

    [00:01:36] AI 2 Yeah, that line really hits hard. It touches on something universal—a quiet fear, or maybe a loud realization—that we’re not living in a way that reflects our core values.

    [00:01:49] AI 1 Exactly. That kind of reflection brings us back to the fundamentals: purpose, alignment, and meaning.

    [00:02:03] AI 2 Which is what the article explores—through the lens of Robert S. Hartman and his work in axiology, or the science of values.

    [00:02:16] AI 1 Axiology—let’s unpack that. So our mission for the next few minutes is to share key insights from the article, to help guide us toward a more purposeful life—and hopefully away from those deep regrets.

    [00:02:32] AI 2 Hartman was even nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. He didn’t just theorize about values—he built a structured, almost scientific framework for understanding how we assign and experience value.

    [00:02:51] AI 1 Measuring value—wow.

    [00:02:53] AI 2 It’s less about defining what’s valuable and more about understanding how we structure value internally and how that shapes our lives.

    [00:03:00] AI 1 So it’s not just abstract philosophy—it’s a practical science. But how does this help us avoid regret and live better?

    [00:03:07] AI 2 The article highlights one of Hartman’s biggest insights: meaning and fulfillment don’t primarily come from knowledge or doing things—but from being.

    [00:03:19] AI 1 That’s what makes it so interesting—Hartman believed that being is the most vital source of meaning.

    [00:03:27] AI 2 Exactly. He said, “To be is probably the most difficult and most important task of our moral lives.” That was his foundation.

    [00:03:37] AI 1 That’s powerful—and very different from how we usually focus on achievements and external success. So how do we cultivate “being”?

    [00:03:49] AI 2 The article suggests it’s about developing your inner core—aligning your internal self with what you truly value.

    [00:04:08] AI 1 That’s brilliant. There’s this quote—“Your inner self, your humbler being, is what makes dogs lick you.” It’s such a relatable way to express authenticity.

    [00:04:18] AI 2 Exactly. That kind of quiet inner alignment builds real connection. The article ties this back to axiology as a tool—not just for leadership or hiring—but for personal clarity.

    [00:04:40] AI 1 Which loops us back to that opening story. A life of regret often comes from being out of alignment. That’s why understanding values—and prioritizing being—is so important.

    [00:04:53] AI 2 Yes. The article suggests that if you're questioning your purpose, it helps to pause and focus on what brings you true meaning. Compassion, connection—even self-care—can anchor you to that deeper self.

    [00:05:09] AI 1 So it’s about aligning the doing with the being, using value clarity as a guide.

    [00:05:24] AI 2 Exactly. It’s not about a massive overnight change—it’s about making intentional choices that build a life of fewer regrets.

    [00:05:35] AI 1 So let’s leave you with this: If “being” is the hardest yet most essential task, what does cultivating your inner self look like for you—today?
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    6 mins
  • How You Drive Is Not Who You Are: Why Self-Awareness Is Just the Start

    How You Drive Is Not Who You Are: Why Self-Awareness Is Just the Start
    Jun 1 2025
    Episode Overview: In this episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast, host Suzie Price unpacks one of the most misunderstood leadership tools: the DISC assessment. Joined by expert guests Kayla DeVault and Karla Brandau, Suzie explores how DISC goes beyond labels to become a powerful lens for self-awareness, communication, and connection. Through vivid metaphors (like a four-way stop sign!) and real-life workplace stories, they reveal how understanding your DISC style—and learning to adapt—can transform how you lead and relate to others. You’ll hear how DISC helped teams resolve conflict, boost productivity, and even close more sales. But that’s just the beginning. Suzie also dives into the broader TriMetrix framework, showing how Motivators (what fuels you) and Acumen (how you think) complete the picture of who you are and how you perform. If you're ready to lead with more clarity, connect more authentically, and grow beyond self-awareness, this episode offers practical tools and fresh perspective to drive results—without losing your humanity. Read the transcript for Episode 131 below and discover how knowing how you drive (and why) can help you become a more Wake Up Eager leader. Takeaways of Episode #131 --- DISC is a Powerful Lens, Not a Label Understanding your DISC style is not about boxing yourself in—it's about increasing awareness so you can communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships. The true power lies in adapting your style to meet others where they are. Real-Life Stories Bring DISC to Life From team conflict resolution to sales success and personal growth, the stories shared by Kayla Devault and Karla Brandau show that DISC isn't theory—it’s a practical tool for everyday effectiveness and human connection. DISC is Just the BeginningAs valuable as DISC is, it’s only one part of the TriMetrix trio. To truly understand yourself and others, you also need to know what drives you (Motivators) and how you think (Acumen). Like your car analogy: DISC is how we drive, but we also need to know what fuels us and what’s under the hood. Episode Recap: Suzie Price explores the power of self-awareness and behavioral insight in this practical and inspiring episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast. Joined by DISC experts Kayla Devault and Karla Brandau, Suzie unpacks how understanding your DISC style—and more importantly, how to adapt it—can unlock stronger communication, leadership, and team connection. Through real-world stories and coaching examples, Kayla shares how self-awareness helped leaders reduce conflict and improve team dynamics, while Karla reveals how aligning sales strategy with DISC styles can drive remarkable results. Together, they emphasize that DISC is not a label, but a lens to improve relationships both personally and professionally. Listeners will gain fresh insights into the TriMetrix framework—DISC, Motivators, and Acumen—and how these tools work together to create a full picture of how we drive, what fuels us, and what’s under the hood. Suzie breaks it all down with her signature car analogy and practical communication tips for every DISC style. The episode closes with a Wellbeing 2.0 segment featuring Douglas White, CEO of Soul-Integrated Athletics, who reflects on emotional regulation, presence, and the deeper work leaders must do to align with their true excellence. Whether you're new to DISC or a seasoned practitioner, this conversation will help you lead, coach, and connect with more awareness and intention. In this episode: [00:14:48] Kayla DeVault: “He was able to adapt his style to meet the needs of his team. He understood they preferred deadlines and needed time to think through challenges before moving forward.” [00:16:42] Kayla DeVault: “They came up with a format for working together—assigning tasks based on strengths. It was amazing to see how they used DISC to create better collaboration.” [00:18:12] Suzie Price: “Awareness without action is trivia. If you learn your style but don’t adjust your approach, you’re missing the point.” [00:28:32] Karla Brandau: “Josh used DISC to build his own sales method and hit over $100K in monthly sales—by leading with likability, empathy, analysis, and decisive action.” [00:30:25] Karla Brandau: “It proved I’m not the person I thought I was… I wouldn’t have become the man I’m going to become if I hadn’t taken that assessment.” [00:36:27] Suzie Price: “DISC is only the tip of the iceberg. To understand the whole person, we need to know what fuels them, what’s under the hood, and where they’ve been.” [00:43:40] Douglas White: “You want to become something? Great. But you have to be it first. Start acting, thinking, and feeling like that version of you—now.” [00:44:52] Douglas White: “Becoming is the dream. But being is what you do every...
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    52 mins
  • Whistles and Wisdom: Life and Leadership Lessons with Chris Garner

    Whistles and Wisdom: Life and Leadership Lessons with Chris Garner
    May 16 2025
    Episode Overview: In this episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast, host Suzie Price sits down with Chris Garner, Chief Sales Officer and longtime SEC college football official, to explore the surprising parallels between sports and leadership. Drawing on decades of experience from the football field to the boardroom, Chris shares how preparation, feedback, and accountability drive success in high-stakes environments. From the pressure of making split-second calls on the field to coaching sales teams toward peak performance, Suzie and Chris unpack what it means to lead with courage, clarity, and commitment. Through candid stories and actionable wisdom, they reveal how consistent preparation and intentional listening can turn even the toughest challenges into opportunities for growth. If you're a leader striving for excellence or someone eager to boost performance and build stronger relationships, this episode will give you the practical mindset tools to lead with heart and results. Read the transcript for Episode 130 below to discover how showing up prepared—and human—can transform your leadership impact. Takeaways of Episode #130 --- Preparation Isn’t Optional—It’s Everything From college football officiating to consulting and sales leadership, excellence comes from consistent, intentional preparation. Whether it’s game film, client research, or daily practice, the takeaway is clear: the more you prepare, the more confident and effective you’ll be in high-pressure moments. Preparation often takes longer than expected but sets the foundation for success. “Every sales call is practice for the next one.” – Chris Garner. Leadership Begins with Listening and Empathy Chris’s officiating experience sharpened his ability to stay calm, listen deeply, and handle conflict. Those same skills translate powerfully to business. When team members feel heard and understood, stress decreases, engagement rises, and performance improves. “When people feel heard, the room changes.” – Chris Garner Gratitude and Accountability Create a Winning CultureStrong leaders own their outcomes and regularly show appreciation. Chris’s leadership philosophy combines taking responsibility with showing sincere gratitude—whether it's through feedback, journaling, or one-on-one acknowledgments. That combo builds trust, drives motivation, and uplifts entire teams. “Accountability without gratitude leads to burnout. Gratitude without accountability lacks direction. You need both.” – Suzie Price Episode Recap: Suzie Price sits down with Chris Garner, Vice President of Sales at TTI Success Insights, for a powerful conversation on authentic leadership, consistency, and what it takes to build a high-performance culture. Chris brings over two decades of leadership wisdom, and in this episode, he shares the core philosophies that have guided his approach to leading and developing others. Through personal stories, practical insights, and what he calls his “Whistles of Wisdom,” Chris highlights the importance of trust, relationships, and emotional intelligence in leadership. He and Suzie explore how showing up with consistency, caring personally, and knowing your people can be the difference between managing and truly leading. Listeners will walk away with actionable takeaways on communication, feedback, and why creating psychological safety within teams is a must in today’s fast-paced work environments. Chris shares how sales is not about being pushy—it’s about being human, being prepared, and building connection. The episode wraps with a Wellbeing 2.0 segment featuring Douglas White, CEO of Soul-Integrated Athletics, who reflects on the role of identity and presence in leading from a place of wholeness. His message is clear: the strongest leaders are those who lead with heart and intention. In this episode: [00:06:15] Chris Garner: “Imagine if every business task you were working on was watched by 100,000 people with cameras from every angle. That’s what officiating feels like—it demands absolute preparation and presence.” [00:13:13] Chris Garner: “The accountability is extremely high in what we do. That’s why I wrote the book—to share the leadership fundamentals we have to live every week when the world is watching.” [00:19:57] Chris Garner: “Here’s what I’ve learned from getting yelled at by a coach—they don’t want me to change the call. They just want to be heard. And that’s what most people want, too.” [01:01:09] Suzie Price: “When we're trying to create something bigger than where we are, we’re often in a fog. A good leader is the light at the edge—saying ‘keep going.’” [01:07:02] Chris Garner: “When you become a leader, you step onto a platform where you're willing to take full accountability for the team’s success—or failure.” [01:14:28] ...
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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • Mini-Episode #6: The 10 Most Common DISC Assessment Mistakes, Myths, and Solutions

    Mini-Episode #6: The 10 Most Common DISC Assessment Mistakes, Myths, and Solutions
    May 7 2025
    Episode Transcript: [00:00:00] SUZIE: welcome to this wake up ego workforce podcast many episode where we share in 10 minutes or less our monthly article from LinkedIn in a new audio format courtesy of our AI co host as they walk through the article and share additional insights exclusively for you I am Susie Price I'm your podcast host and the founder of Priceless Professional Development and whether you're listening to one of our long form episodes or something like this mini episode our focus is always to provide everything to you related to helping employees in your organization build a high commitment low drama wake up eager workforce we're focused on creating great hiring creating great teams helping leaders and individuals wake up eager you can find all of our episodes long form and short form at Wake up eco workforce.com and you can subscribe anywhere that you get your podcasts so let me know if you have any questions if you are enjoying these mini episodes or any of our other episodes or if I can help you in any way you can find me at Susie at priceless professional. com Susie Price on LinkedIn and of course our contact information if you go to wake up eager workforce.com thanks for tuning in appreciate you very much and go out and have a wake up eager kind of day take care [00:01:23] AI HOST 1: you're here because you wanna really get under the hood right yeah gain that deep knowledge without getting uh totally bogged down exactly you sent over some great material on the DISA assessment and we get it you want to cut through the noise and figure out what it really does and you know where it might fall short uh huh so that's our mission for this deep dive we're gonna unpack the common myths the misunderstandings around DIS check some clarity yeah exactly clarity so you can see its true value and also the potential pitfalls it kind of reminds me of that Abraham Maslow quote oh the hammer one yeah yeah I suppose it is tempting if the only tool you have is a hammer to treat everything as if it were a nail [00:02:04] AI HOST 2: it fits perfectly doesn't it d I s C is a useful tool no doubt but it's definitely not the only tool you should have in your toolbox [00:02:11] AI HOST 1: right so let's start with maybe the biggest one mistake No. 1 thinking d I s C is a complete personality profile [00:02:18] AI HOST 2: yeah that's a really common one people often see it as this like comprehensive window into someone's entire psyche [00:02:24] AI HOST 1: and you can sort of see why right the reports can look quite detailed [00:02:28] AI HOST 2: they can absolutely but you know behavioral science tells us people are incredibly complex DISC fundamentally focuses on observable behaviors how we act how we communicate [00:02:40] AI HOST 1: so it's descriptive of how someone behaves [00:02:42] AI HOST 2: yes the misconception often comes because well we all like simple ways to understand complex things like human behavior and a detailed DISC report feels like it covers everything [00:02:54] AI HOST 1: okay so let's nail this down if it's behavioral not a full personality test what are the big things it doesn't tell us [00:03:01] AI HOST 2: well that's the key it gives great insight into how someone prefers to act and interact their dominant styles you know uh huh but it doesn't really dig into their core values what truly drives them deep down OK values are missing right and things like their underlying temperament those sort of innate predispositions and crucially something like emotional maturity how well they handle their emotions navigate tricky situations DISC doesn't measure that [00:03:25] AI HOST 1: that's a huge distinction behavior versus values temperament emotional maturity if d I s C gives us this specific behavioral lens how do we get that fuller picture the article mentions combining it [00:03:39] AI HOST 2: yeah with other tools and that's the smart approach really like try matrix mention that one specifically what does that add exactly going back to Maslow's hammer right relying only on DISC is limiting the article is spot on combining it with something like Tri Matrix which does measure those other pieces motivators competencies even decision making styles that gives you a much much richer more holistic view of a person it's like using different filters to see the whole image clearly [00:04:06] AI HOST 1: got it okay so that naturally leads into the second myth doesn't it the idea that all DISA assessments are basically the same [00:04:12] AI HOST 2: oh yeah that's another big Assumption people make you see DIC and think it's a standardized thing like you know a gallon of milk but it's not not at all the article points out there are variations different providers might use slightly different methodologies different terms and importantly have different levels of accuracy and validation behind them [00:04:30] AI HOST 1: so why is that important if I just grab any dice test online...
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    14 mins
  • Train Your Brain, Transform Your Game: The Neuroscience of Wake Up Eager Leadership

    Train Your Brain, Transform Your Game: The Neuroscience of Wake Up Eager Leadership
    Apr 30 2025
    Episode Overview In this episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast, host Suzie Price dives into the cutting-edge neuroscience behind high-performance leadership. Joined by Carissa Collazo and Dr. Ron Bonnstetter from the Mind Science Center, they explore how brain scans, emotional regulation, and self-awareness can radically improve decision-making and stress management. Through engaging discussion and real-world examples, Suzie, Carissa, and Dr. Ron unpack how leaders can literally see their brain in action, and retrain it to respond with clarity rather than chaos. From building mental resilience to becoming the CEO of your own brain, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help leaders at every level transform from reactive to intentional. Whether you're leading a team or simply aiming to lead yourself better, this conversation will help you train your brain and elevate your game. Read the transcript for Episode 129 below to discover how science-backed coaching can help you master your mindset and lead with purpose. Takeaways of Episode #129 --- See Your Brain to Change Your Brain Through a powerful three-step approach—see it, train it, change it—the Mind Science Center uses TTI assessments and EEG scans to make the invisible visible. Leaders can literally see how their brain responds to stress and emotion, allowing for highly customized coaching that strengthens mental clarity and emotional control.Emotional Regulation Is the New Superpower This program bridges neuroscience, coaching, and real-world leadership challenges to help individuals build the neural pathways that lead to better self-regulation. The result? Clearer decision-making, calmer reactions under pressure, and enhanced productivity—skills that define high-performing leaders today.Self-Awareness Fuels Sustainable SuccessWhether you're a CEO or an emerging leader, growth starts with understanding your emotional responses and biases. With measurable before-and-after brain scans, this approach provides tangible proof of progress, reinforcing that lasting change comes from the inside out—through self-reflection, personal responsibility, and deliberate mindset shifts. Episode Recap: Suzie Price explores the neuroscience of leadership with Carissa Collazo and Dr. Ron Bonnstetter from the Mind Science Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together, they reveal how brain imaging, emotional intelligence, and customized coaching are revolutionizing how leaders manage stress, make decisions, and show up with greater clarity. Through their groundbreaking program, leaders literally see their brain activity using EEG scans, uncovering how stress and emotional triggers impact their performance. Carissa walks listeners through the Mind Science Center’s three-step process—See Your Brain, Train Your Brain, Change Your Life—while Dr. Ron adds depth with stories from his decades of research and global neuroscience work. Suzie, Carissa, and Dr. Ron dive into the science behind emotional regulation, the power of self-awareness, and how mindset coaching builds stronger neural pathways for better focus and resilience. They discuss how data-driven insights and reflection can transform how we lead ourselves and others. The episode wraps up with a compelling Wellbeing 2.0 segment from Douglas White, CEO of Soul-Integrated Athletics, who reminds us that emotional mastery isn't about suppression—it's about awareness. His message echoes the episode’s central theme: When you train your brain, you transform your game. In this episode: [00:13:56] Suzie Price: “Training your brain to take a different path requires repetition. You need specific focus and consistency—that’s what helps rewire lifelong patterns.” [00:20:51] Dr. Ron Bonnstetter: “EEG scans let us see how the brain is operating in real time. Every frequency tells a story about how you’re processing information.” [00:27:10] Dr. Ron Bonnstetter: “Our emotions control us up to 95% of the time. Most of our decisions are made emotionally—then rationalized later.” [00:29:40] Carissa Collazo: “Clients start leaning into these practices naturally. They realize they’re navigating life differently—and that’s when the transformation begins.” [00:48:57] Carissa Collazo: “We track our steps and sleep—now imagine doing the same for your brain. The future of intentional living is measurable.” [01:14:17] Douglas White: “There’s wisdom in the body. That gut feeling? That’s your intuition speaking. And learning to trust it is part of your leadership growth.”
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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • The Eager Leader’s Edge: Emotions, Axiology, and Authentic Growth

    The Eager Leader’s Edge: Emotions, Axiology, and Authentic Growth
    Apr 15 2025

    Episode Preview

    In this episode of the Wake Up Eager Workforce podcast, host Suzie Price explores how emotional intelligence, values, and self-awareness shape effective leadership. Joined by Advanced Master Axiologist Ron Oltmanns, they dive into the practical applications of Robert Hartman’s Axiology—a science-based approach to decision-making and personal development.

    Through thoughtful insights and real-world metaphors (including lessons from aviation), this conversation helps leaders understand how to stay fully engaged, prioritize what matters, and avoid becoming a “passenger in their own cockpit.”

    Whether you're an executive, team leader, or aspiring coach, this episode offers powerful strategies to lead with greater clarity, courage, and intention.

    Tune in for key takeaways, including how to align leadership with purpose, tap into emotional insight, and create lasting impact—starting from within.


    Takeaways of Episode #128 ---

    • Deepen Self-Awareness and Leadership Presence
      Understanding emotions, values, and priorities allows leaders to tune into what matters, stay grounded, and engage fully.
    • Use Axiology to Make Better Decisions
      Formal Axiology provides a science-based framework for ethical decision-making, measuring how leaders think about people, tasks, and systems.
    • Lead with Intention, Not Autopilot
      Being present and open to feedback allows leaders to stay in control, adapt, and grow with purpose—both personally and professionally.

    Episode Recap:

    Suzie Price dives into the world of Axiology, guided by her guest Ron Oltmanns, co-founder of Leadskill and a longtime leadership coach and formal axiology practitioner. They discuss how Robert Hartman’s work helps leaders measure what truly matters and align with their deeper values.

    Ron shares stories from his global coaching experience and draws parallels between flight safety and executive leadership, urging leaders to “not be a passenger in your own cockpit.” His insights emphasize the importance of showing up with full presence and being willing to be challenged.

    Suzie and Ron explore topics like emotional intelligence, self-reflection, and the leadership value of prioritizing well-being. They also discuss how tools like the TriMetrix system and Workplace Motivators Assessment can bring clarity to how people think and behave in organizations.

    Suzie introduces the mindfulness concepts of Segment Intending and Pre-Paving, which align beautifully with the theme of emotional awareness and intentional living.

    The episode concludes with Douglas White’s Wellbeing 2.0 segment, where Douglas, CEO of Soul-Integrated Athletics, reminds us that our emotions are guiding signals, not distractions. His message reinforces the episode’s theme: How we feel matters—and it can elevate our performance when we pay attention.

    In this episode:

    [00:15:38] Suzie Price: “The Structure of Value is a book about how Hartman created axiology. It gives us the framework to measure where we’re balanced—or imbalanced—in both our personal and work life.”

    [00:23:16] Ron Oltmanns: “I told a client to visit a cemetery and think about how they wanted to be remembered. That moment stuck with them. We coach others through the same questions we often need to ask ourselves.”

    [00:35:32] Ron Oltmanns: “My goal is to help the real leaders—those with influence, not just titles—rise up in organizations and shape the culture and direction for the better.”

    [00:43:33] Ron Oltmanns: “Emotion is a hugely powerful energy force. It’s information. Leaders can’t afford to fly blind—emotion is part of judgment and decision-making.”

    [01:14:17] Douglas White: “There’s wisdom in the body. When you feel something in your gut, it’s worth interrogating. That’s part of your intuition guiding you.”
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    1 hr and 25 mins