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    <title>Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint</title>
    <description>Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint spotlights the rule-breakers, underdogs, and disruptive innovators who heard &quot;it won&apos;t work&quot; and proved everyone wrong. Host Elizabeth Bieniek dives into the untold stories of entrepreneurs and leaders who don&apos;t fit the mold—the &quot;let&apos;s try it anyway&quot; crowd turning crazy ideas into game-changing reality. If you&apos;re a disruptor who&apos;s navigated rejection, broken the rules, and built something extraordinary against the odds, this is the place for you. Join us for inspiring conversations about innovation, resilience, and the power of refusing to quit.</description>
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    <pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
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    <itunes:summary>Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint spotlights the rule-breakers, underdogs, and disruptive innovators who heard &quot;it won&apos;t work&quot; and proved everyone wrong. Host Elizabeth Bieniek dives into the untold stories of entrepreneurs and leaders who don&apos;t fit the mold—the &quot;let&apos;s try it anyway&quot; crowd turning crazy ideas into game-changing reality. If you&apos;re a disruptor who&apos;s navigated rejection, broken the rules, and built something extraordinary against the odds, this is the place for you. Join us for inspiring conversations about innovation, resilience, and the power of refusing to quit.</itunes:summary>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Jim Carlough</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://jimcarloughcoach.com/"><strong>Jim Carlough</strong></a>, leadership developer and transformational guide, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build authentic leadership and unlock human potential through intentional integrity work.</p>
<p>Jim's approach to authentic leadership and meaningful success—through active listening, building genuine human connections, and embracing integrity as a guiding principle—reveals how intentional leaders sustain authentic purpose while creating positive ripple effects in their organizations and communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A classic lemon cake with lemon filling, a reflection of his philosophy of honoring tradition and the meaningful moments that shape us. With a focus on authentic leadership, genuine human connection, and helping others become better versions of themselves, this conversation covers everything from challenging the myth of born leaders to how listening first, practicing nightly self-reflection, and asking deeper questions about integrity becomes the ultimate catalyst for personal transformation and helping others thrive.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 2 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
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      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://jimcarloughcoach.com/"><strong>Jim Carlough</strong></a>, leadership developer and transformational guide, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build authentic leadership and unlock human potential through intentional integrity work.</p>
<p>Jim's approach to authentic leadership and meaningful success—through active listening, building genuine human connections, and embracing integrity as a guiding principle—reveals how intentional leaders sustain authentic purpose while creating positive ripple effects in their organizations and communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A classic lemon cake with lemon filling, a reflection of his philosophy of honoring tradition and the meaningful moments that shape us. With a focus on authentic leadership, genuine human connection, and helping others become better versions of themselves, this conversation covers everything from challenging the myth of born leaders to how listening first, practicing nightly self-reflection, and asking deeper questions about integrity becomes the ultimate catalyst for personal transformation and helping others thrive.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Jim Carlough</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Meet Jim Carlough, author of The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap to Success and discover how redefining leadership success beyond commanding authority transforms your impact and organizational legacy. Learn why sustainable leadership careers are built on shared exploration and people-centered development, and how embracing your full commitment to authentic mentorship forms the foundation of meaningful transformation. Explore why putting people in a position to find their own answers through compassionate leadership, rather than dictating solutions, unlocks exponential growth in your teams and community.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Jim Carlough, author of The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap to Success and discover how redefining leadership success beyond commanding authority transforms your impact and organizational legacy. Learn why sustainable leadership careers are built on shared exploration and people-centered development, and how embracing your full commitment to authentic mentorship forms the foundation of meaningful transformation. Explore why putting people in a position to find their own answers through compassionate leadership, rather than dictating solutions, unlocks exponential growth in your teams and community.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Non-Negotiable Foundation: Jim Carlough on Strategic Humor and Leadership</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcarlough"><strong>Jim Carlough</strong></a>'s three-decade career in healthcare transformed him from a chief sales officer into a Leadership Identity Architect, driven by a profound realization: competency alone doesn't hold leaders back—identity does. His mission centers on helping leaders develop not just their skills, but their entire leadership identity through the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership framework. He emphasizes that technology amplifies human capability—it doesn't replace human leadership.</p>
<p>Jim's commitment to self-deprecating humor reflects awareness of operating in a hypersensitive cultural moment, where vulnerability creates connection and trust. Beyond humor, Carlough's insistence on integrity as the non-negotiable peak of his leadership framework shapes everything else. A conversation early in his career—when a mentor challenged him to ask himself each night whether he'd acted for personal benefit at another's expense—became the defining question of his life.</p>
<p>Ready to elevate your leadership impact? Connect with Jim Carlough at <strong><a href="https://jimcarloughcoach.com/">https://jimcarloughcoach.com/</a></strong> to access free leadership resources and explore his transformative coaching programs. Jim offers a complimentary Leadership Clarity Session where he identifies your key growth opportunities and develops actionable next steps tailored to your unique challenges. Visit his website today to schedule your session and discover how the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership can transform not just your career, but your entire approach to leading others.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=82</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcarlough"><strong>Jim Carlough</strong></a>'s three-decade career in healthcare transformed him from a chief sales officer into a Leadership Identity Architect, driven by a profound realization: competency alone doesn't hold leaders back—identity does. His mission centers on helping leaders develop not just their skills, but their entire leadership identity through the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership framework. He emphasizes that technology amplifies human capability—it doesn't replace human leadership.</p>
<p>Jim's commitment to self-deprecating humor reflects awareness of operating in a hypersensitive cultural moment, where vulnerability creates connection and trust. Beyond humor, Carlough's insistence on integrity as the non-negotiable peak of his leadership framework shapes everything else. A conversation early in his career—when a mentor challenged him to ask himself each night whether he'd acted for personal benefit at another's expense—became the defining question of his life.</p>
<p>Ready to elevate your leadership impact? Connect with Jim Carlough at <strong><a href="https://jimcarloughcoach.com/">https://jimcarloughcoach.com/</a></strong> to access free leadership resources and explore his transformative coaching programs. Jim offers a complimentary Leadership Clarity Session where he identifies your key growth opportunities and develops actionable next steps tailored to your unique challenges. Visit his website today to schedule your session and discover how the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership can transform not just your career, but your entire approach to leading others.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:summary>Most organizations treat training as a spot solution, plucking individual courses off the shelf when a particular skill gap emerges. Jim Carlough observed this pattern throughout his career and recognized that what corporations desperately need are comprehensive frameworks, not fragmented training modules. This realization led him to distill decades of mentoring wisdom into the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, a practical framework grounded in real-world examples rather than theoretical abstractions. This insight became the catalyst for his mission to help leaders develop not just their skills, but their entire leadership identity—a distinction that separates those who merely manage from those who truly inspire.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Most organizations treat training as a spot solution, plucking individual courses off the shelf when a particular skill gap emerges. Jim Carlough observed this pattern throughout his career and recognized that what corporations desperately need are comprehensive frameworks, not fragmented training modules. This realization led him to distill decades of mentoring wisdom into the Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, a practical framework grounded in real-world examples rather than theoretical abstractions. This insight became the catalyst for his mission to help leaders develop not just their skills, but their entire leadership identity—a distinction that separates those who merely manage from those who truly inspire.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Gregory Russell Benedikt</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong></a>, executive coach and transformational guide, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build authentic connections and unlock human potential through intentional inner work.</p>
<p>Gregory shares insights about debunking the myth that coaching is about giving advice and telling people what to do. Through his work as a coach and thought leader in personal and professional development, he demonstrates that the most transformative coaching isn't about expertise in solutions—it's about creating safe spaces for deep exploration, what he calls &quot;inner excavation,&quot; where clients discover their own answers and unlock their true potential.</p>
<p>Gregory's approach to career fulfillment and meaningful success—through questioning deeper passions, building genuine human connections, and embracing rejection as a growth tool—reveals how intentional leaders sustain authentic purpose while creating positive ripple effects in their communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A simple, classic chocolate cake—a reflection of his philosophy of keeping things grounded and unpretentious. With a focus on authentic coaching, genuine human connection, and energizing those around him, this conversation covers everything from challenging conventional career advice to how talking to strangers, embracing rejection, and asking deeper questions about fulfillment becomes the ultimate catalyst for personal transformation and helping others feel more alive.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=78</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong></a>, executive coach and transformational guide, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build authentic connections and unlock human potential through intentional inner work.</p>
<p>Gregory shares insights about debunking the myth that coaching is about giving advice and telling people what to do. Through his work as a coach and thought leader in personal and professional development, he demonstrates that the most transformative coaching isn't about expertise in solutions—it's about creating safe spaces for deep exploration, what he calls &quot;inner excavation,&quot; where clients discover their own answers and unlock their true potential.</p>
<p>Gregory's approach to career fulfillment and meaningful success—through questioning deeper passions, building genuine human connections, and embracing rejection as a growth tool—reveals how intentional leaders sustain authentic purpose while creating positive ripple effects in their communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A simple, classic chocolate cake—a reflection of his philosophy of keeping things grounded and unpretentious. With a focus on authentic coaching, genuine human connection, and energizing those around him, this conversation covers everything from challenging conventional career advice to how talking to strangers, embracing rejection, and asking deeper questions about fulfillment becomes the ultimate catalyst for personal transformation and helping others feel more alive.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Gregory Russell Benedikt, coach and thought leader, and discover how redefining coaching success beyond giving advice transforms your impact and leadership legacy. Learn why sustainable coaching careers are built on shared exploration and client-centered discovery, and how embracing your full commitment to authentic mentorship forms the foundation of meaningful transformation. Explore how strategic questioning and intentional reflection sharpen your ability to guide others and why putting clients in a position to find their own answers, rather than teaching them directly, unlocks exponential growth in your leaders and community.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Transforming Success into Purpose: Gregory Russell Benedikt on Prepping for Life&apos;s Biggest Storms</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong></a>'s work answers a question most successful people are too afraid to ask—Is this it? Working in finance and private equity, he achieved everything society promised: prestige, security, status. Yet by twenty-five, he'd experienced two existential crises. His personal transformation reveals the profound impact of alignment between your actions and your authentic values.</p>
<p>After leaving finance, Gregory's voice deepened, his presence shifted, his entire physiology transformed—not metaphorically, but observably. He evolved beyond treating boldness as a panacea. Instead, he frames voluntary discomfort as strategic life preparation. By intentionally stepping outside your comfort zone, you build resilience before life forces involuntary hardship upon you—you become the type of person who can weather storms because you've already chosen to stand in the rain.</p>
<p>Gregory's radical insight is this: your life is yours to design, and the world needs people courageous enough to live authentically. If you're questioning whether the formula you're following is truly yours, explore Gr egory Russell Benedikt's TEDx talk<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezygvBTXeeQ&t=1s"><strong> How Being Bold Will Change Your Life</strong></a>, and visit his website <a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong> </a>to discover how intentional coaching can transform quiet desperation into purposeful, authentic living.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/transforming-success-into-purpose-gregory-russell-benedikt-on-prepping-for-lifes-biggest-storms/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong></a>'s work answers a question most successful people are too afraid to ask—Is this it? Working in finance and private equity, he achieved everything society promised: prestige, security, status. Yet by twenty-five, he'd experienced two existential crises. His personal transformation reveals the profound impact of alignment between your actions and your authentic values.</p>
<p>After leaving finance, Gregory's voice deepened, his presence shifted, his entire physiology transformed—not metaphorically, but observably. He evolved beyond treating boldness as a panacea. Instead, he frames voluntary discomfort as strategic life preparation. By intentionally stepping outside your comfort zone, you build resilience before life forces involuntary hardship upon you—you become the type of person who can weather storms because you've already chosen to stand in the rain.</p>
<p>Gregory's radical insight is this: your life is yours to design, and the world needs people courageous enough to live authentically. If you're questioning whether the formula you're following is truly yours, explore Gr egory Russell Benedikt's TEDx talk<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezygvBTXeeQ&t=1s"><strong> How Being Bold Will Change Your Life</strong></a>, and visit his website <a href="https://gregoryrussellbenedikt.com/"><strong>Gregory Russell Benedikt</strong> </a>to discover how intentional coaching can transform quiet desperation into purposeful, authentic living.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:summary>Gregory Russell Benedikt embodies a philosophy that cuts to the heart of modern existence: most of us are living on autopilot, disconnected from what truly makes us feel alive. He discovered that the number one regret of the dying, documented through palliative care research, was the wish to have had the courage to live a life true to themselves rather than the life others expected of them. This insight catalyzed his decision to leave finance entirely, a bold move that would reshape not just his career but his entire being.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Gregory Russell Benedikt embodies a philosophy that cuts to the heart of modern existence: most of us are living on autopilot, disconnected from what truly makes us feel alive. He discovered that the number one regret of the dying, documented through palliative care research, was the wish to have had the courage to live a life true to themselves rather than the life others expected of them. This insight catalyzed his decision to leave finance entirely, a bold move that would reshape not just his career but his entire being.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Scott Martin</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin"><strong>Scott Martin</strong></a>, coach and transformational leader, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable coaching legacy and lasting community impact.</p>
<p>Scott shares insights about debunking the myth that coaching success is driven by ego and winning percentages. Through his work as a coach, educator, and thought leader across athletic and educational communities, he demonstrates that the most successful coaches aren't those with the highest win rates—they're the ones who combine relentless discipline with intentional mentorship and strategic positioning that puts others in a position to learn.</p>
<p>Scott's approach to mental resilience and strategic resets—through competitive play, purposeful reading, and intentional breaks—reveals how disciplined leaders sustain peak performance while maintaining authentic connection to their communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A chocolate layer cake with salted peanuts—a cherished memory shared with his brother since childhood, reflecting his commitment to celebrating milestones and meaningful connections. With a focus on disciplined excellence, authentic leadership, and generational impact through his upcoming book <em><strong><a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin">Play from Your Heart</a> </strong></em>on disability awareness, this conversation covers everything from measuring coaching success beyond championships to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering work ethic becomes the ultimate catalyst for community transformation and helping others achieve their full potential.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=76</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin"><strong>Scott Martin</strong></a>, coach and transformational leader, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable coaching legacy and lasting community impact.</p>
<p>Scott shares insights about debunking the myth that coaching success is driven by ego and winning percentages. Through his work as a coach, educator, and thought leader across athletic and educational communities, he demonstrates that the most successful coaches aren't those with the highest win rates—they're the ones who combine relentless discipline with intentional mentorship and strategic positioning that puts others in a position to learn.</p>
<p>Scott's approach to mental resilience and strategic resets—through competitive play, purposeful reading, and intentional breaks—reveals how disciplined leaders sustain peak performance while maintaining authentic connection to their communities.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? A chocolate layer cake with salted peanuts—a cherished memory shared with his brother since childhood, reflecting his commitment to celebrating milestones and meaningful connections. With a focus on disciplined excellence, authentic leadership, and generational impact through his upcoming book <em><strong><a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin">Play from Your Heart</a> </strong></em>on disability awareness, this conversation covers everything from measuring coaching success beyond championships to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering work ethic becomes the ultimate catalyst for community transformation and helping others achieve their full potential.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Scott Martin</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:06:09</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Scott Martin, Coach and Thought Leader. Discover how redefining coaching success beyond winning percentages transforms your impact and leadership legacy. Learn why sustainable coaching careers are built on shared accomplishment and learner-centered approaches, and how embracing your full work ethic forms the foundation of meaningful mentorship. Explore how strategic mental resets and intentional reflection sharpen your competitive edge, and why putting others in a position to learn, rather than teaching them directly, unlocks exponential growth in your athletes and community.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Scott Martin, Coach and Thought Leader. Discover how redefining coaching success beyond winning percentages transforms your impact and leadership legacy. Learn why sustainable coaching careers are built on shared accomplishment and learner-centered approaches, and how embracing your full work ethic forms the foundation of meaningful mentorship. Explore how strategic mental resets and intentional reflection sharpen your competitive edge, and why putting others in a position to learn, rather than teaching them directly, unlocks exponential growth in your athletes and community.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Breaking Down to Build Back Up: Scott Martin on Radical Renewal and Authentic Purpose</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>When illness cost him his hands and feet, it dismantled the ego-constructed identity <a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin"><strong>Scott Martin</strong></a> had built entirely upon professional achievement and external validation. Rather than process this trauma, he initially outran it through work until depression, and a failed malpractice trial forced genuine reckoning. His response was radical: he sold everything, moved to a modest apartment, accepted food stamps, and coached for free—deliberately returning to conditions where passion, not status, drove him.</p>
<p>Scott's return to coaching revealed his fundamental evolution: where he once pursued elite status, he now saw potential in overlooked children and developed their confidence and tactical understanding rather than chasing accolades. His <em>Soccer Atlas</em> philosophy prioritizes player autonomy and strategic thinking over drilling, transforming a dismissed C-team into an undefeated squad that outperformed the A-team. This shift demonstrates someone whose entire definition of success has been rewritten by lived experience.</p>
<p>Scott Martin's journey teaches that authentic purpose emerges only when we dismantle the scaffolding of conventional success and have courage to become who we are meant to be, not who we were. Discover more about his transformative journey through his memoir <em><strong><a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin">Play from Your Heart</a> </strong></em>launching June 9th. Pre-order and purchase at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Play-Your-Heart-Scott-Martin/dp/B0GKPWK261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3ACP4ZWKL2LCS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VoRh4ANX5UgseSc8xQzfE--Ruipi8aPFCPPqsr3xfBwxYqjaOeRrYEH9OGNW45gOzLXObeJzIHs3Enkow0iqmPLvOOWN9r6FICgmpNK5B-Kwv5YsZNJgAReWZAkPABIjd5VB5xA_4WUhfQ3ULrFZTEKTfyaAfOkU66MWBIaJhqXXeGHZNULRi-V-S0Y9r8vtcZ_Uh6QwLnQtLQ6rdK1ANeC12ofWTYl_GnjuQMYUjmM.wf4nuUUFZGOilgCF8MdxcmjO3q1imHx8kxphdgBETuY&dib_tag=se&keywords=play+from+your+heart&qid=1770315363&sprefix=play+from+your+heart%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1"><strong>Amazon, </strong></a><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/play-from-your-heart-scott-martin/1149336431?ean=9798894410395"><strong>Barnes &amp; Noble,</strong></a> <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Play-From-Your-Heart/Scott-Martin/9798894410395"><strong>Simon &amp; Schuster or </strong></a><a href="https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/play-from-your-heart_scott-martin/58056276/?resultid=7bfeec2e-322d-4e42-8c0c-281e5e2f6921#edition=75080920&idiq=88082910"><strong>Thrift Books</strong></a>. Follow his ongoing work through the<em> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3hSFOMivFBODVHl4p6dLes"><strong>Life's a Road Trip</strong></a> </em>podcast, where Scott continues as a powerful voice for amputee abilities, accessibility, and the transformative power of purposeful uncertainty.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=74</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When illness cost him his hands and feet, it dismantled the ego-constructed identity <a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin"><strong>Scott Martin</strong></a> had built entirely upon professional achievement and external validation. Rather than process this trauma, he initially outran it through work until depression, and a failed malpractice trial forced genuine reckoning. His response was radical: he sold everything, moved to a modest apartment, accepted food stamps, and coached for free—deliberately returning to conditions where passion, not status, drove him.</p>
<p>Scott's return to coaching revealed his fundamental evolution: where he once pursued elite status, he now saw potential in overlooked children and developed their confidence and tactical understanding rather than chasing accolades. His <em>Soccer Atlas</em> philosophy prioritizes player autonomy and strategic thinking over drilling, transforming a dismissed C-team into an undefeated squad that outperformed the A-team. This shift demonstrates someone whose entire definition of success has been rewritten by lived experience.</p>
<p>Scott Martin's journey teaches that authentic purpose emerges only when we dismantle the scaffolding of conventional success and have courage to become who we are meant to be, not who we were. Discover more about his transformative journey through his memoir <em><strong><a href="https://librarytalespublishing.com/collections/scott-martin">Play from Your Heart</a> </strong></em>launching June 9th. Pre-order and purchase at <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Play-Your-Heart-Scott-Martin/dp/B0GKPWK261/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3ACP4ZWKL2LCS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VoRh4ANX5UgseSc8xQzfE--Ruipi8aPFCPPqsr3xfBwxYqjaOeRrYEH9OGNW45gOzLXObeJzIHs3Enkow0iqmPLvOOWN9r6FICgmpNK5B-Kwv5YsZNJgAReWZAkPABIjd5VB5xA_4WUhfQ3ULrFZTEKTfyaAfOkU66MWBIaJhqXXeGHZNULRi-V-S0Y9r8vtcZ_Uh6QwLnQtLQ6rdK1ANeC12ofWTYl_GnjuQMYUjmM.wf4nuUUFZGOilgCF8MdxcmjO3q1imHx8kxphdgBETuY&dib_tag=se&keywords=play+from+your+heart&qid=1770315363&sprefix=play+from+your+heart%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1"><strong>Amazon, </strong></a><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/play-from-your-heart-scott-martin/1149336431?ean=9798894410395"><strong>Barnes &amp; Noble,</strong></a> <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Play-From-Your-Heart/Scott-Martin/9798894410395"><strong>Simon &amp; Schuster or </strong></a><a href="https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/play-from-your-heart_scott-martin/58056276/?resultid=7bfeec2e-322d-4e42-8c0c-281e5e2f6921#edition=75080920&idiq=88082910"><strong>Thrift Books</strong></a>. Follow his ongoing work through the<em> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/3hSFOMivFBODVHl4p6dLes"><strong>Life's a Road Trip</strong></a> </em>podcast, where Scott continues as a powerful voice for amputee abilities, accessibility, and the transformative power of purposeful uncertainty.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Breaking Down to Build Back Up: Scott Martin on Radical Renewal and Authentic Purpose</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:19:25</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Scott Martin&apos;s life represents a profound study in how disruption, when met with unwavering purpose, becomes the foundation for meaningful transformation. His journey challenges conventional narratives about success, identity, and what it truly means to rebuild when everything has been stripped away. What emerges from his experiences is not merely a story of overcoming adversity, but rather a deliberate philosophy about how we reconstruct ourselves and, in doing so, discover our authentic calling.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Scott Martin&apos;s life represents a profound study in how disruption, when met with unwavering purpose, becomes the foundation for meaningful transformation. His journey challenges conventional narratives about success, identity, and what it truly means to rebuild when everything has been stripped away. What emerges from his experiences is not merely a story of overcoming adversity, but rather a deliberate philosophy about how we reconstruct ourselves and, in doing so, discover our authentic calling.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Michele Bonds</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <strong><a href="http://michelebonds.com">Michele Bonds,</a></strong> artist and creative disruptor, and explore her mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable artistic career and lasting creative legacy.</p>
<p>Michele shares insights about debunking the myth that artistic success requires hiding your corporate background and abandoning who you really are, revealing how authentic identity combined with disciplined execution across creative work, marketing, and intentional habit-stacking is the real catalyst for professional impact. Through her work as an artist and thought leadership across creative industries, she demonstrates that the most successful artists aren't those with the best stories—they're the ones who combine compelling authenticity with relentless discipline and strategic execution.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Gluten-free red velvet—a personal choice reflecting her commitment to intentional living and self-care. With a focus on disciplined excellence, authentic identity, and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring artistic success beyond gallery presence to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering discipline becomes the ultimate catalyst for creative impact and helping others achieve their goals and artistic prosperity.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=72</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <strong><a href="http://michelebonds.com">Michele Bonds,</a></strong> artist and creative disruptor, and explore her mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable artistic career and lasting creative legacy.</p>
<p>Michele shares insights about debunking the myth that artistic success requires hiding your corporate background and abandoning who you really are, revealing how authentic identity combined with disciplined execution across creative work, marketing, and intentional habit-stacking is the real catalyst for professional impact. Through her work as an artist and thought leadership across creative industries, she demonstrates that the most successful artists aren't those with the best stories—they're the ones who combine compelling authenticity with relentless discipline and strategic execution.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Gluten-free red velvet—a personal choice reflecting her commitment to intentional living and self-care. With a focus on disciplined excellence, authentic identity, and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring artistic success beyond gallery presence to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering discipline becomes the ultimate catalyst for creative impact and helping others achieve their goals and artistic prosperity.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Michele Bonds</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/5c7f099a-709d-487b-9e71-d062697e3090/3000x3000/3.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:03:06</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Michele Bonds, Artist and Creative Rule-Breaker. Discover how embracing your full identity—corporate background and all—reshapes your earning potential and competitive advantage as an artist. Join us as Michele shares transformative insights on dismantling the myth that artistic success requires hiding who you really are. Learn why sustainable artistic careers are built on disciplined execution and intentional habit-stacking and how leveraging your innate capacity for operational thinking and efficiency-driven mindsets forms the foundation of meaningful creative work.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Michele Bonds, Artist and Creative Rule-Breaker. Discover how embracing your full identity—corporate background and all—reshapes your earning potential and competitive advantage as an artist. Join us as Michele shares transformative insights on dismantling the myth that artistic success requires hiding who you really are. Learn why sustainable artistic careers are built on disciplined execution and intentional habit-stacking and how leveraging your innate capacity for operational thinking and efficiency-driven mindsets forms the foundation of meaningful creative work.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Mindset Shift: Michele Bonds on Breaking Corporate Constraints for Creative Freedom</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelebonds/"><strong>Michele Bonds</strong></a> represents a rare professional who has successfully navigated one of modern careers' most challenging transitions: leaving Wall Street law and executive recruiting to pursue full-time structural paper art. For two decades, she thrived in precision-driven, regulated environments where clarity and efficiency were essential. Yet despite professional success, she felt incomplete. Rather than abandoning the skills that made her successful in corporate America, she has weaponized them in service of her art, bringing the same systems thinking and operational excellence to her creative practice.</p>
<p>Michele recognizes that as artificial intelligence increasingly handles sequential and operational work, human capacity for three-dimensional, creative, and expansive thinking becomes increasingly valuable. She frames art as a mirror that reflects aspects of ourselves, with abstract work activating different neural pathways toward creative problem-solving. Her perspective on artificial intelligence is nuanced: while she uses AI for administrative tasks, she refuses to use it for artwork creation, recognizing that genuine value accrues to handmade, imperfect objects that carry marks of human intention and experience.</p>
<p>As efficiency becomes increasingly commodified, distinctly human capacities for creative disruption and authentic expression become the true scarce resources. Michele Bonds invites like-minded individuals to connect with her work and philosophy. Explore her structural paper sculptures and artistic vision at <a href="http://michelebonds.com"><strong>michelebonds.com</strong></a>, follow her creative journey on <a href="http://instagram.com/michelebondsart"><strong>Instagram</strong></a>, and connect professionally on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelebonds/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/the-mindset-shift-michele-bonds-on-breaking-corporate-constraints-for-creative-freedom/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelebonds/"><strong>Michele Bonds</strong></a> represents a rare professional who has successfully navigated one of modern careers' most challenging transitions: leaving Wall Street law and executive recruiting to pursue full-time structural paper art. For two decades, she thrived in precision-driven, regulated environments where clarity and efficiency were essential. Yet despite professional success, she felt incomplete. Rather than abandoning the skills that made her successful in corporate America, she has weaponized them in service of her art, bringing the same systems thinking and operational excellence to her creative practice.</p>
<p>Michele recognizes that as artificial intelligence increasingly handles sequential and operational work, human capacity for three-dimensional, creative, and expansive thinking becomes increasingly valuable. She frames art as a mirror that reflects aspects of ourselves, with abstract work activating different neural pathways toward creative problem-solving. Her perspective on artificial intelligence is nuanced: while she uses AI for administrative tasks, she refuses to use it for artwork creation, recognizing that genuine value accrues to handmade, imperfect objects that carry marks of human intention and experience.</p>
<p>As efficiency becomes increasingly commodified, distinctly human capacities for creative disruption and authentic expression become the true scarce resources. Michele Bonds invites like-minded individuals to connect with her work and philosophy. Explore her structural paper sculptures and artistic vision at <a href="http://michelebonds.com"><strong>michelebonds.com</strong></a>, follow her creative journey on <a href="http://instagram.com/michelebondsart"><strong>Instagram</strong></a>, and connect professionally on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelebonds/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Mindset Shift: Michele Bonds on Breaking Corporate Constraints for Creative Freedom</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:19</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Michele Bonds&apos; journey from Wall Street law and executive recruiting to becoming a structural paper artist offers profound insights into what it truly means to redefine value in an increasingly automated world. What makes her story particularly compelling is not merely the career change itself, but the deliberate, strategic approach she has taken to building an art business that honors both her creative vision and her entrepreneurial instincts. She recognized that while she had always imagined supporting entrepreneurs or working in entrepreneurial environments, she had consistently chosen established industries instead. This pattern recognition became her catalyst for change.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Michele Bonds&apos; journey from Wall Street law and executive recruiting to becoming a structural paper artist offers profound insights into what it truly means to redefine value in an increasingly automated world. What makes her story particularly compelling is not merely the career change itself, but the deliberate, strategic approach she has taken to building an art business that honors both her creative vision and her entrepreneurial instincts. She recognized that while she had always imagined supporting entrepreneurs or working in entrepreneurial environments, she had consistently chosen established industries instead. This pattern recognition became her catalyst for change.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>52</itunes:episode>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Marques Ogden</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://linktr.ee/MarquesOgden"><strong>Marques Ogden</strong></a>, keynote speaker and success strategist, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable speaking career and lasting personal legacy.</p>
<p>Marques shares insights about debunking the myth that keynote speaking success is simply about having a great story, revealing how disciplined execution across content creation, marketing, and follow-up is the real catalyst for paid engagements. He discusses the transformative power of discipline over inspiration for crossing finish lines and finding the next ones, and how intentional ego management and powerful self-talk fuel breakthrough success—especially for those rebuilding after past setbacks.</p>
<p>Through his work as a keynote speaker and thought leadership across speaking engagements, he demonstrates that the most successful speakers aren't those with the best stories—they're the ones who combine compelling messaging with relentless discipline and strategic execution.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Vanilla cake with white icing—a classic he savors as absolutely the best. With a focus on disciplined excellence, ego management, and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring speaking success beyond stage presence to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering discipline becomes the ultimate catalyst for professional impact and helping others achieve their goals and prosperity.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 5 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=70</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://linktr.ee/MarquesOgden"><strong>Marques Ogden</strong></a>, keynote speaker and success strategist, and explore his mission to redefine what it takes to build a sustainable speaking career and lasting personal legacy.</p>
<p>Marques shares insights about debunking the myth that keynote speaking success is simply about having a great story, revealing how disciplined execution across content creation, marketing, and follow-up is the real catalyst for paid engagements. He discusses the transformative power of discipline over inspiration for crossing finish lines and finding the next ones, and how intentional ego management and powerful self-talk fuel breakthrough success—especially for those rebuilding after past setbacks.</p>
<p>Through his work as a keynote speaker and thought leadership across speaking engagements, he demonstrates that the most successful speakers aren't those with the best stories—they're the ones who combine compelling messaging with relentless discipline and strategic execution.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Vanilla cake with white icing—a classic he savors as absolutely the best. With a focus on disciplined excellence, ego management, and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring speaking success beyond stage presence to how intentional personal development combined with unwavering discipline becomes the ultimate catalyst for professional impact and helping others achieve their goals and prosperity.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Marques Ogden</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:03:29</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Marques Ogden, keynote speaker and success strategist, sharing transformative insights on unlocking personal and professional potential through authentic discipline and intentional career development. Discover how challenging the myth that keynote speaking success requires only storytelling can reshape your earning potential and competitive advantage. Learn why leveraging your innate capacity for disciplined execution—not chasing surface-level inspiration—forms the foundation of sustainable speaking careers, and how prioritizing human behavioral change through ego management and powerful self-talk creates the catalyst for professional impact and generational legacy-building. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Marques Ogden, keynote speaker and success strategist, sharing transformative insights on unlocking personal and professional potential through authentic discipline and intentional career development. Discover how challenging the myth that keynote speaking success requires only storytelling can reshape your earning potential and competitive advantage. Learn why leveraging your innate capacity for disciplined execution—not chasing surface-level inspiration—forms the foundation of sustainable speaking careers, and how prioritizing human behavioral change through ego management and powerful self-talk creates the catalyst for professional impact and generational legacy-building. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>From NFL Stardom to Business Reinvention: Marques Ogden on Rebuilding After Loss</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>After losing his multi-million-dollar construction company, his home, his cars, and accumulating $5.5 million in debt, <strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/MarquesOgden">Marques Ogden</a></strong> hit absolute rock bottom working for $8.25 per hour. This lived devastation grants him unshakeable credibility when he teaches that the mental game supersedes all other business factors. His core insight is that ego management, not intelligence or strategy, determines who succeeds and who fails.</p>
<p>Marques' most powerful teaching centers on identity as the foundation of leadership. He emphasizes that if everyone likes you, but you don't like yourself, you've still lost. Success requires internal alignment where you genuinely respect who you're becoming. He redefines success entirely through client achievement rather than personal accolades, creating a virtuous cycle where lifting others becomes the pathway to personal fulfillment.</p>
<p>Discover how Marques Ogden's blueprint for resilience and authentic leadership can transform your journey. Visit his <a href="https://marquesogden.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>for his coaching services, books, and transformational resources. For ongoing insights on identity, mindset, and navigating adversity, subscribe to <strong>Get Authentic with Marques Ogden</strong> on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-authentic-with-marques-ogden/id1633323257"><strong>Apple Podcasts </strong></a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2tZE3q6Uy0IDcX0BCzajOq"><strong>Spotify</strong></a>. Whether you're recovering from failure, transitioning careers, or aligning your identity with your aspirations, Marques provides the roadmap to move through storms stronger.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 3 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/marques-ogden-cot-episode/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>After losing his multi-million-dollar construction company, his home, his cars, and accumulating $5.5 million in debt, <strong><a href="https://linktr.ee/MarquesOgden">Marques Ogden</a></strong> hit absolute rock bottom working for $8.25 per hour. This lived devastation grants him unshakeable credibility when he teaches that the mental game supersedes all other business factors. His core insight is that ego management, not intelligence or strategy, determines who succeeds and who fails.</p>
<p>Marques' most powerful teaching centers on identity as the foundation of leadership. He emphasizes that if everyone likes you, but you don't like yourself, you've still lost. Success requires internal alignment where you genuinely respect who you're becoming. He redefines success entirely through client achievement rather than personal accolades, creating a virtuous cycle where lifting others becomes the pathway to personal fulfillment.</p>
<p>Discover how Marques Ogden's blueprint for resilience and authentic leadership can transform your journey. Visit his <a href="https://marquesogden.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>for his coaching services, books, and transformational resources. For ongoing insights on identity, mindset, and navigating adversity, subscribe to <strong>Get Authentic with Marques Ogden</strong> on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-authentic-with-marques-ogden/id1633323257"><strong>Apple Podcasts </strong></a>or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2tZE3q6Uy0IDcX0BCzajOq"><strong>Spotify</strong></a>. Whether you're recovering from failure, transitioning careers, or aligning your identity with your aspirations, Marques provides the roadmap to move through storms stronger.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>From NFL Stardom to Business Reinvention: Marques Ogden on Rebuilding After Loss</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:20:45</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Marques Ogden stands as a living testament to a principle that most successful people never fully grasp until catastrophe forces them to confront it: the greatest enemy of growth is not external adversity but internal certainty. His journey from a thriving multi-million-dollar construction empire to complete financial ruin, and subsequently to becoming a transformational business coach and author, reveals a paradox at the heart of human development. The very confidence that built his business became the instrument of his destruction. Yet it is precisely this understanding that grants Marques the credibility and wisdom to guide others through their own transformations.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Marques Ogden stands as a living testament to a principle that most successful people never fully grasp until catastrophe forces them to confront it: the greatest enemy of growth is not external adversity but internal certainty. His journey from a thriving multi-million-dollar construction empire to complete financial ruin, and subsequently to becoming a transformational business coach and author, reveals a paradox at the heart of human development. The very confidence that built his business became the instrument of his destruction. Yet it is precisely this understanding that grants Marques the credibility and wisdom to guide others through their own transformations.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Monica Marquez</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/"><strong>Monica Marquez</strong></a>, AI adoption strategist and behavioral change expert, and explore her mission to redefine what true organizational transformation really means.</p>
<p>Monica shares insights about debunking the myth that AI adoption is simply about having AI tools, revealing how human behavioral change is the real catalyst for maximizing ROI. She discusses the transformative power of changing your state strategies for mental clarity and problem-solving, and how stress relief practices like puzzles and essential oils fuel creative breakthroughs—especially for those navigating ADHD-related distractions.</p>
<p>Through her work at FlipWork and thought leadership across podcasts and educational platforms, she demonstrates that the fastest organizations aren't those with the best tools—they're the ones who adapt and adopt with intention.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Tres leches—a classic she buys by the slice to savor authentically rather than overindulge. With a focus on behavioral transformation and generational knowledge-sharing, this conversation covers everything from measuring AI adoption success beyond tool implementation to how intentional change management combined with personal resilience becomes the ultimate catalyst for organizational impact and sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=67</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/"><strong>Monica Marquez</strong></a>, AI adoption strategist and behavioral change expert, and explore her mission to redefine what true organizational transformation really means.</p>
<p>Monica shares insights about debunking the myth that AI adoption is simply about having AI tools, revealing how human behavioral change is the real catalyst for maximizing ROI. She discusses the transformative power of changing your state strategies for mental clarity and problem-solving, and how stress relief practices like puzzles and essential oils fuel creative breakthroughs—especially for those navigating ADHD-related distractions.</p>
<p>Through her work at FlipWork and thought leadership across podcasts and educational platforms, she demonstrates that the fastest organizations aren't those with the best tools—they're the ones who adapt and adopt with intention.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Tres leches—a classic she buys by the slice to savor authentically rather than overindulge. With a focus on behavioral transformation and generational knowledge-sharing, this conversation covers everything from measuring AI adoption success beyond tool implementation to how intentional change management combined with personal resilience becomes the ultimate catalyst for organizational impact and sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Monica Marquez</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:06:05</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Monica Marquez, founder of FlipWork and AI adoption strategist, sharing transformative insights on unlocking organizational potential through authentic behavioral transformation and intentional technology integration. Discover how challenging the myth that AI adoption requires only tool implementation can reshape your ROI and competitive advantage. Learn why leveraging your team&apos;s innate capacity for change—not chasing surface-level tech solutions—forms the foundation of sustainable adoption, and how prioritizing human behavioral change and knowledge transfer creates the catalyst for organizational impact and generational acceleration.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Monica Marquez, founder of FlipWork and AI adoption strategist, sharing transformative insights on unlocking organizational potential through authentic behavioral transformation and intentional technology integration. Discover how challenging the myth that AI adoption requires only tool implementation can reshape your ROI and competitive advantage. Learn why leveraging your team&apos;s innate capacity for change—not chasing surface-level tech solutions—forms the foundation of sustainable adoption, and how prioritizing human behavioral change and knowledge transfer creates the catalyst for organizational impact and generational acceleration.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Humanizing AI: Monica Marquez on Building Remote Connection Beyond the Tech</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>When <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/"><strong>Monica Marquez</strong></a>, founder of FlipWork Inc, recognized that diversity and inclusion initiatives succeeded because they brought varied perspectives to problem-solving, she understood a deeper principle: diverse thinking drives better outcomes. That same logic now applies to AI adoption—the technology itself means nothing without the people and culture to support it. Organizations that fail to recognize this connection perpetuate the same mistakes they made with diversity initiatives: implementing top-down mandates without addressing the human behavioral and psychological factors that determine success or failure.</p>
<p>FlipWork Inc. directly addresses the AI adoption paradox most organizations face: executives demand rapid AI implementation for competitive survival, yet middle managers create psychological safety barriers that prevent employees from experimenting with these tools. Monica's solution is deceptively simple yet profoundly effective. Start small by identifying a single workflow, map each step, pinpoint friction points, and determine where automation adds genuine value versus where human judgment remains irreplaceable. The real transformation happens when organizations shift from surface-level AI usage—email drafting, meeting notes—to strategic workflow integration that fundamentally reimagines how work gets done and directly impacts bottom-line KPIs.</p>
<p>Ready to transform your organization's AI adoption? Visit Monica's <a href="http://themonicamarquez.com"><span><strong>website</strong></span> </a>and subscribe to her weekly <strong><a href="https://www.themonicamarquez.com/newsletters/ay-ay-ay-ai">newsletter</a> </strong>delivering demystified AI trends, tested tools, and frameworks that move professionals from skepticism to confident experimentation.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/humanizing-ai-monica-marquez-on-building-remote-connection-beyond-the-tech/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/"><strong>Monica Marquez</strong></a>, founder of FlipWork Inc, recognized that diversity and inclusion initiatives succeeded because they brought varied perspectives to problem-solving, she understood a deeper principle: diverse thinking drives better outcomes. That same logic now applies to AI adoption—the technology itself means nothing without the people and culture to support it. Organizations that fail to recognize this connection perpetuate the same mistakes they made with diversity initiatives: implementing top-down mandates without addressing the human behavioral and psychological factors that determine success or failure.</p>
<p>FlipWork Inc. directly addresses the AI adoption paradox most organizations face: executives demand rapid AI implementation for competitive survival, yet middle managers create psychological safety barriers that prevent employees from experimenting with these tools. Monica's solution is deceptively simple yet profoundly effective. Start small by identifying a single workflow, map each step, pinpoint friction points, and determine where automation adds genuine value versus where human judgment remains irreplaceable. The real transformation happens when organizations shift from surface-level AI usage—email drafting, meeting notes—to strategic workflow integration that fundamentally reimagines how work gets done and directly impacts bottom-line KPIs.</p>
<p>Ready to transform your organization's AI adoption? Visit Monica's <a href="http://themonicamarquez.com"><span><strong>website</strong></span> </a>and subscribe to her weekly <strong><a href="https://www.themonicamarquez.com/newsletters/ay-ay-ay-ai">newsletter</a> </strong>delivering demystified AI trends, tested tools, and frameworks that move professionals from skepticism to confident experimentation.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Humanizing AI: Monica Marquez on Building Remote Connection Beyond the Tech</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>Monica Marquez&apos;s career represents a compelling intersection of personal discovery and professional purpose. Her journey from a small town in West Texas to founding FlipWork Inc. demonstrates the profound impact of mentorship and self-reflection. A pivotal college moment—when a mentor asked her the simple but transformative question of why she wanted to be a doctor—redirected her entire trajectory. Rather than pursuing medicine, she recognized her true passion lay in people development and organizational transformation. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Monica Marquez&apos;s career represents a compelling intersection of personal discovery and professional purpose. Her journey from a small town in West Texas to founding FlipWork Inc. demonstrates the profound impact of mentorship and self-reflection. A pivotal college moment—when a mentor asked her the simple but transformative question of why she wanted to be a doctor—redirected her entire trajectory. Rather than pursuing medicine, she recognized her true passion lay in people development and organizational transformation. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with John Miles</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/"><strong>John Miles</strong></a>, architect of significance and career transformation coach, and explore his evolution from SVP roles in global enterprises to redefining what true professional impact really means.</p>
<p>John shares insights about dismantling the achievement-obsession myth that fuels burnout, the transformative power of improv training for confidence and adaptability, and how early morning mindfulness routines cultivate the mental clarity needed for sustainable success. Through his thought leadership and coaching practice, he demonstrates that building lives as functional houses for future generations—rather than monuments to ego—creates the most meaningful legacies and authentic professional fulfillment.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Pineapple upside down cake—a delightful departure that reflects his philosophy of embracing authenticity over convention. With a focus on intentional living and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring career success beyond organizational size to how passion combined with perseverance—when applied with deliberate intention—becomes the ultimate catalyst for meaningful work and lasting influence.</p>
<p><span>Join his movement and explore how to build a life of significance. Visit </span><a href="http://johnrmiles.com"><b>johnrmiles.com</b></a><span> or subscribe to his transformative insights at </span><a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/"><b>theignitedlife.net</b> </a><span>on Substack.</span></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/?post_type=gp_podcast_episode&amp;p=63</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/"><strong>John Miles</strong></a>, architect of significance and career transformation coach, and explore his evolution from SVP roles in global enterprises to redefining what true professional impact really means.</p>
<p>John shares insights about dismantling the achievement-obsession myth that fuels burnout, the transformative power of improv training for confidence and adaptability, and how early morning mindfulness routines cultivate the mental clarity needed for sustainable success. Through his thought leadership and coaching practice, he demonstrates that building lives as functional houses for future generations—rather than monuments to ego—creates the most meaningful legacies and authentic professional fulfillment.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Pineapple upside down cake—a delightful departure that reflects his philosophy of embracing authenticity over convention. With a focus on intentional living and generational impact, this conversation covers everything from measuring career success beyond organizational size to how passion combined with perseverance—when applied with deliberate intention—becomes the ultimate catalyst for meaningful work and lasting influence.</p>
<p><span>Join his movement and explore how to build a life of significance. Visit </span><a href="http://johnrmiles.com"><b>johnrmiles.com</b></a><span> or subscribe to his transformative insights at </span><a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/"><b>theignitedlife.net</b> </a><span>on Substack.</span></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with John Miles</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/5d916035-a418-4fea-9c70-513846cb0e82/3000x3000/2.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:05:43</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet John Miles, career strategist and thought leader, sharing transformative insights on building meaningful work through authentic self-expression and intentional legacy building. Discover how challenging the myth that recognition requires achievement can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why leveraging your innate superpowers—not chasing external validation—forms the foundation of fulfillment, and how prioritizing mindful mornings and personal authenticity creates the catalyst for sustainable success and generational impact.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet John Miles, career strategist and thought leader, sharing transformative insights on building meaningful work through authentic self-expression and intentional legacy building. Discover how challenging the myth that recognition requires achievement can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why leveraging your innate superpowers—not chasing external validation—forms the foundation of fulfillment, and how prioritizing mindful mornings and personal authenticity creates the catalyst for sustainable success and generational impact.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Mattering Advantage: John Miles on Fostering Seen and Valued Work Environments</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/"><b>John Miles</b></a> <span>has identified the mattering gap—a systemic disconnect between our authentic selves and the masks we wear—as the root cause of burnout, disengagement, and organizational dysfunction. This gap originates in childhood through achievement-driven systems that condition our worth on external results, forcing us to suppress our authentic passions and present constructed versions of ourselves to the world. His insight is transformative: burnout, loneliness, and disengagement aren't productivity problems—they're belonging problems rooted in invisibility and inauthenticity.</span></p>
<p><span>Beyond organizations, Miles advocates shifting from building careers that rise like monuments—impressive but uninhabitable—to building lives that hold like homes with strong foundations and enduring structures. This means transitioning from vanquisher mentality to creative amplifier mentality. The return on energy at the frontline supervisor level cascades throughout entire organizations, making this the single most powerful point of cultural transformation.</span></p>
<p><span>Miles's mission extends to interrupting the mattering crisis before it becomes entrenched in young minds. With over forty percent of high school students experiencing depression and loneliness, his children's book launching February 24th teaches kids they matter and equips them to extend that mattering to others. To join this movement and explore how to build a life of significance, visit </span><a href="http://johnrmiles.com"><b>johnrmiles.com</b></a><span> or subscribe to his transformative insights at </span><a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/"><b>theignitedlife.net</b> </a><span>on Substack.</span></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/the-mattering-advantage-john-miles-on-fostering-seen-and-valued-work-environments/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/"><b>John Miles</b></a> <span>has identified the mattering gap—a systemic disconnect between our authentic selves and the masks we wear—as the root cause of burnout, disengagement, and organizational dysfunction. This gap originates in childhood through achievement-driven systems that condition our worth on external results, forcing us to suppress our authentic passions and present constructed versions of ourselves to the world. His insight is transformative: burnout, loneliness, and disengagement aren't productivity problems—they're belonging problems rooted in invisibility and inauthenticity.</span></p>
<p><span>Beyond organizations, Miles advocates shifting from building careers that rise like monuments—impressive but uninhabitable—to building lives that hold like homes with strong foundations and enduring structures. This means transitioning from vanquisher mentality to creative amplifier mentality. The return on energy at the frontline supervisor level cascades throughout entire organizations, making this the single most powerful point of cultural transformation.</span></p>
<p><span>Miles's mission extends to interrupting the mattering crisis before it becomes entrenched in young minds. With over forty percent of high school students experiencing depression and loneliness, his children's book launching February 24th teaches kids they matter and equips them to extend that mattering to others. To join this movement and explore how to build a life of significance, visit </span><a href="http://johnrmiles.com"><b>johnrmiles.com</b></a><span> or subscribe to his transformative insights at </span><a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/"><b>theignitedlife.net</b> </a><span>on Substack.</span></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Mattering Advantage: John Miles on Fostering Seen and Valued Work Environments</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:25:00</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>John Miles&apos; journey from a high-performing Navy officer and Fortune 50 technology executive to a champion of human significance reveals a deeper truth about how we&apos;ve fundamentally misunderstood what it means to build a meaningful life and organization. What Miles discovered throughout his career wasn&apos;t a simple operational problem to be solved with better metrics or efficiency gains, but rather a systemic disconnect between who we present ourselves to be and who we actually are—a gap he calls the mattering gap, and it sits at the heart of nearly every organizational and personal challenge we face today.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>John Miles&apos; journey from a high-performing Navy officer and Fortune 50 technology executive to a champion of human significance reveals a deeper truth about how we&apos;ve fundamentally misunderstood what it means to build a meaningful life and organization. What Miles discovered throughout his career wasn&apos;t a simple operational problem to be solved with better metrics or efficiency gains, but rather a systemic disconnect between who we present ourselves to be and who we actually are—a gap he calls the mattering gap, and it sits at the heart of nearly every organizational and personal challenge we face today.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Elizabeth Bieniek</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we usually go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's join Elizabeth Bieniek, our host, as she explores eight powerful business lessons hidden in holiday romance movies, uncovering wisdom that challenges conventional thinking about success and growth.</p>
<p>Elizabeth shares candid insights about debunking myths in business culture, the critical importance of core values despite the allure of constant hustle, and how strategic reflection transforms both professional decisions and personal fulfillment. Through her podcast ventures and storytelling expertise, she demonstrates that helping leaders find authentic paths and building meaningful cultures creates the most impactful connections and lasting organizational success.</p>
<p>Her inspiration? Holiday rom-coms with a business twist—a nostalgic lens that mirrors her philosophy of chasing meaning over metrics and finding innovation in unexpected places. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from anchoring decisions around genuine values to the intersection of community building and sustainable growth.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-with-elizabeth-bieniek/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we usually go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's join Elizabeth Bieniek, our host, as she explores eight powerful business lessons hidden in holiday romance movies, uncovering wisdom that challenges conventional thinking about success and growth.</p>
<p>Elizabeth shares candid insights about debunking myths in business culture, the critical importance of core values despite the allure of constant hustle, and how strategic reflection transforms both professional decisions and personal fulfillment. Through her podcast ventures and storytelling expertise, she demonstrates that helping leaders find authentic paths and building meaningful cultures creates the most impactful connections and lasting organizational success.</p>
<p>Her inspiration? Holiday rom-coms with a business twist—a nostalgic lens that mirrors her philosophy of chasing meaning over metrics and finding innovation in unexpected places. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from anchoring decisions around genuine values to the intersection of community building and sustainable growth.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:03:47</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this Valentine&apos;s special episode of Cake Bites, join Elizabeth as she explores eight powerful business lessons hidden in holiday romance movies, featuring ChatGPT as a guest contributor. From the power of community and authenticity to the underrated value of second chances, this episode reveals how the themes that make rom-coms resonate also unlock real-world business success.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this Valentine&apos;s special episode of Cake Bites, join Elizabeth as she explores eight powerful business lessons hidden in holiday romance movies, featuring ChatGPT as a guest contributor. From the power of community and authenticity to the underrated value of second chances, this episode reveals how the themes that make rom-coms resonate also unlock real-world business success.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>A Valentine&apos;s Special: Love, Joy, and Purpose - The Trifecta of Workplace Transformation</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>The most transformative moments in professional life emerge not from hitting targets, but from when teams collectively experience love, joy, and hope together. Through systematic examination of narrative structures and human behavior, Elizabeth Bieniek identified a powerful trifecta—love, joy, and hope—that transcends entertainment and becomes the foundational currency of organizational success. When leaders recognize that team members are navigating life achievements outside the sphere of work, they create cultures where people feel seen, valued, and connected as whole human beings.</p>
<p>When frustration mounts, when loss weighs heavily, when uncertainty threatens to overwhelm, that is precisely when teams need to experience joy together and celebrate even the smallest victories. Elizabeth's framework distills human motivation into four actionable themes of hope that directly impact business outcomes: the transformative belief that change is possible for those feeling stuck, the validation that uniqueness creates value for those feeling invisible, the creation of community for the isolated, and the alignment with purpose for those seeking meaning beyond themselves. This isn't escapism but a strategic recognition that joy and recognition serve as powerful antidotes to despair.</p>
<p>Elizabeth encourages leaders to see that hope, belonging, and authentic recognition aren't soft skills but essential infrastructure for sustainable competitive advantage and human flourishing. The call is clear: stop treating emotions as separate from strategy and start building organizations where people experience genuine connection, see their uniqueness celebrated, and understand their work contributes to something meaningful. Happy Valentine's Season!</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/a-valentines-special-love-joy-and-purpose-the-trifecta-of-workplace-transformation/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The most transformative moments in professional life emerge not from hitting targets, but from when teams collectively experience love, joy, and hope together. Through systematic examination of narrative structures and human behavior, Elizabeth Bieniek identified a powerful trifecta—love, joy, and hope—that transcends entertainment and becomes the foundational currency of organizational success. When leaders recognize that team members are navigating life achievements outside the sphere of work, they create cultures where people feel seen, valued, and connected as whole human beings.</p>
<p>When frustration mounts, when loss weighs heavily, when uncertainty threatens to overwhelm, that is precisely when teams need to experience joy together and celebrate even the smallest victories. Elizabeth's framework distills human motivation into four actionable themes of hope that directly impact business outcomes: the transformative belief that change is possible for those feeling stuck, the validation that uniqueness creates value for those feeling invisible, the creation of community for the isolated, and the alignment with purpose for those seeking meaning beyond themselves. This isn't escapism but a strategic recognition that joy and recognition serve as powerful antidotes to despair.</p>
<p>Elizabeth encourages leaders to see that hope, belonging, and authentic recognition aren't soft skills but essential infrastructure for sustainable competitive advantage and human flourishing. The call is clear: stop treating emotions as separate from strategy and start building organizations where people experience genuine connection, see their uniqueness celebrated, and understand their work contributes to something meaningful. Happy Valentine's Season!</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>A Valentine&apos;s Special: Love, Joy, and Purpose - The Trifecta of Workplace Transformation</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/cf4dc914-ae02-4e43-876b-05f6f970e731/3000x3000/5.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:12:11</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Love and connection remain one of the most underprioritized yet vital elements of organizational culture and team resilience. In environments where productivity dominates the conversation and metrics drive decision-making, the simple act of acknowledging and celebrating what makes people uniquely valuable—both professionally and personally—often falls by the wayside. Yet this oversight represents a missed opportunity for leaders to fundamentally transform how their teams navigate change, build belonging, and sustain hope through uncertain seasons. Join Elizabeth Bieniek in this Valentine&apos;s Special as she explores powerful insights on why leaders must prioritize love, joy, and recognition, and how meaningful connection becomes the cornerstone of building resilient, authentic, and thriving teams.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Love and connection remain one of the most underprioritized yet vital elements of organizational culture and team resilience. In environments where productivity dominates the conversation and metrics drive decision-making, the simple act of acknowledging and celebrating what makes people uniquely valuable—both professionally and personally—often falls by the wayside. Yet this oversight represents a missed opportunity for leaders to fundamentally transform how their teams navigate change, build belonging, and sustain hope through uncertain seasons. Join Elizabeth Bieniek in this Valentine&apos;s Special as she explores powerful insights on why leaders must prioritize love, joy, and recognition, and how meaningful connection becomes the cornerstone of building resilient, authentic, and thriving teams.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Dan Baird</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>Dan Baird</strong></a>, co-founder of <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a>, and explore his journey from childhood aspirations to mastering the art of meaningful work and strategic data science.</p>
<p>Dan shares candid insights about debunking myths in the AI industry, the critical importance of data preparation despite the allure of large language models, and how quality sleep transforms both professional clarity and personal resilience. Through his entrepreneurial ventures and innovation consulting, he demonstrates that helping innovators find their audiences and building authentic products creates the most meaningful client connections and lasting impact.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Cheesecake with blueberry topping—a nostalgic indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of chasing passion over paychecks and finding joy in the journey. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from reverse-engineering your career around genuine interests and the intersection of personal integrity and professional strategy.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 5 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-with-dan-baird/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>Dan Baird</strong></a>, co-founder of <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a>, and explore his journey from childhood aspirations to mastering the art of meaningful work and strategic data science.</p>
<p>Dan shares candid insights about debunking myths in the AI industry, the critical importance of data preparation despite the allure of large language models, and how quality sleep transforms both professional clarity and personal resilience. Through his entrepreneurial ventures and innovation consulting, he demonstrates that helping innovators find their audiences and building authentic products creates the most meaningful client connections and lasting impact.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Cheesecake with blueberry topping—a nostalgic indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of chasing passion over paychecks and finding joy in the journey. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from reverse-engineering your career around genuine interests and the intersection of personal integrity and professional strategy.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Dan Baird</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/7042a10f-09ef-46ac-a50d-0dc1326baf1a/3000x3000/8.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:14:11</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Dan Baird, AI innovator and founder, sharing transformative insights on building meaningful work through authentic passion and strategic data mastery. Discover how challenging the myth that success requires chasing money can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why clean data preparation—not flashy AI—forms the foundation of innovation, and how prioritizing sleep and personal integrity creates the catalyst for sustainable success. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Dan Baird, AI innovator and founder, sharing transformative insights on building meaningful work through authentic passion and strategic data mastery. Discover how challenging the myth that success requires chasing money can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why clean data preparation—not flashy AI—forms the foundation of innovation, and how prioritizing sleep and personal integrity creates the catalyst for sustainable success. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Neuroscience of Digital Trust: Dan Baird on Hyper-Personalized Marketing</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>Dan Baird</strong></a>, co-founder of <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a>, discovered that 85 percent of human communication is nonverbal—a revelation that transformed how he approaches understanding decision-making. His core insight: stop targeting demographics and start identifying people already passionate about your category.</p>
<p>Dan's philosophy challenges the entire foundation of modern marketing. His research demonstrates that people don't quit jobs because of work—they quit because of their boss—and that choosing to work with people you respect fundamentally changes life quality. On artificial intelligence, Dan takes a contrarian stance: AI isn't a replacement for human judgment but a tool for eliminating drudgery. The critical skill isn't trusting AI; it's maintaining rigorous skepticism about its outputs and using human critical thinking to validate its reasoning.</p>
<p>Dan Baird advocates for fewer, higher-quality connections over mass outreach, for choosing teams based on personality alignment and mutual respect, and for using technology to enhance human judgment rather than replace it. Visit <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a> for a free trial and connect with him on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>. Learn how decoding human behavior transforms marketing strategy, team dynamics, and organizational effectiveness.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 3 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/the-neuroscience-of-digital-trust-dan-baird-on-hyper-personalized-marketing/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>Dan Baird</strong></a>, co-founder of <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a>, discovered that 85 percent of human communication is nonverbal—a revelation that transformed how he approaches understanding decision-making. His core insight: stop targeting demographics and start identifying people already passionate about your category.</p>
<p>Dan's philosophy challenges the entire foundation of modern marketing. His research demonstrates that people don't quit jobs because of work—they quit because of their boss—and that choosing to work with people you respect fundamentally changes life quality. On artificial intelligence, Dan takes a contrarian stance: AI isn't a replacement for human judgment but a tool for eliminating drudgery. The critical skill isn't trusting AI; it's maintaining rigorous skepticism about its outputs and using human critical thinking to validate its reasoning.</p>
<p>Dan Baird advocates for fewer, higher-quality connections over mass outreach, for choosing teams based on personality alignment and mutual respect, and for using technology to enhance human judgment rather than replace it. Visit <a href="http://Wrench.ai"><strong>Wrench AI</strong></a> for a free trial and connect with him on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/danbaird/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>. Learn how decoding human behavior transforms marketing strategy, team dynamics, and organizational effectiveness.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
      <enclosure length="32332597" type="audio/mpeg" url="https://pscrb.fm/rss/p/mgln.ai/e/1385/injector.simplecastaudio.com/0d0b8144-561d-4390-b9c2-cd26c69be4e9/episodes/2bdcef4c-fc2b-4f19-b4a8-3b3e842cb13c/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&amp;awCollectionId=0d0b8144-561d-4390-b9c2-cd26c69be4e9&amp;awEpisodeId=2bdcef4c-fc2b-4f19-b4a8-3b3e842cb13c&amp;feed=Zor69xo0"/>
      <itunes:title>The Neuroscience of Digital Trust: Dan Baird on Hyper-Personalized Marketing</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/8813d6fe-e9ed-449f-b039-0d9bce274efd/3000x3000/7.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:33:40</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dan Baird&apos;s journey into understanding human decision-making began long before he founded Wrench AI. His fascination with how people make choices, influenced by academic pursuits in argumentation and negotiation, revealed something fundamental about human nature that most marketers overlook entirely. He learned about micro-expressions, those fleeting facial movements that reveal what people are truly thinking, and CIA interrogation techniques that decode intent through subtle behavioral cues. These weren&apos;t abstract theories for Baird; they were practical tools for understanding the gap between what people say and what they actually mean, a gap that has plagued marketers for decades.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dan Baird&apos;s journey into understanding human decision-making began long before he founded Wrench AI. His fascination with how people make choices, influenced by academic pursuits in argumentation and negotiation, revealed something fundamental about human nature that most marketers overlook entirely. He learned about micro-expressions, those fleeting facial movements that reveal what people are truly thinking, and CIA interrogation techniques that decode intent through subtle behavioral cues. These weren&apos;t abstract theories for Baird; they were practical tools for understanding the gap between what people say and what they actually mean, a gap that has plagued marketers for decades.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>42</itunes:episode>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Anika Jackson</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/"><strong>Anika Jackson</strong></a>, founder of <a href="http://YOURBRANDEDPODCAST.COM"><strong>Your Branded Podcast</strong></a>, and explore her journey from nonprofit coordinator to mastering the art of purpose-driven podcasting and brand strategy.</p>
<p>Anika shares candid insights about debunking myths in the podcasting industry, the critical importance of flow state despite managing multiple platforms and clients, and how mindfulness practices transform both professional clarity and personal alignment. Through her entrepreneurial ventures and USC teaching, she demonstrates that empowering voices and building authentic brands creates the most meaningful client connections and student outcomes.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? German chocolate cake—a rich, layered indulgence that mirrors her philosophy of balancing ambition with family values and finding substance in personal connections. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building invested mentorship relationships, the intersection of motherhood and professional development, and why <em>Fahrenheit 451</em> reminds us that doing hard things remains the cornerstone of sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/anika-jackson-cake-bites/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/"><strong>Anika Jackson</strong></a>, founder of <a href="http://YOURBRANDEDPODCAST.COM"><strong>Your Branded Podcast</strong></a>, and explore her journey from nonprofit coordinator to mastering the art of purpose-driven podcasting and brand strategy.</p>
<p>Anika shares candid insights about debunking myths in the podcasting industry, the critical importance of flow state despite managing multiple platforms and clients, and how mindfulness practices transform both professional clarity and personal alignment. Through her entrepreneurial ventures and USC teaching, she demonstrates that empowering voices and building authentic brands creates the most meaningful client connections and student outcomes.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? German chocolate cake—a rich, layered indulgence that mirrors her philosophy of balancing ambition with family values and finding substance in personal connections. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building invested mentorship relationships, the intersection of motherhood and professional development, and why <em>Fahrenheit 451</em> reminds us that doing hard things remains the cornerstone of sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Anika Jackson</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:06:53</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Anika Jackson, podcast host, agency founder, and USC digital media professor, sharing transformative insights on aligning personal values with professional success. Discover how challenging the misconception that success demands struggle can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why non-linear careers represent responsive evolution rather than failure and how integrating personal development with professional strategy creates the foundation for meaningful, profitable work.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Anika Jackson, podcast host, agency founder, and USC digital media professor, sharing transformative insights on aligning personal values with professional success. Discover how challenging the misconception that success demands struggle can reshape your career trajectory and wellbeing. Learn why non-linear careers represent responsive evolution rather than failure and how integrating personal development with professional strategy creates the foundation for meaningful, profitable work.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Purpose Over Ambition: Building Your Personal Brand Empire with Anika Jackson</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/"><strong>Anika Jackson</strong></a>'s trajectory from nonprofit coordinator to agency founder to USC professor proves that authentic success emerges from aligning personal values with purposeful work. She defines <em>flow state</em> as the intersection of talent, passion, and economic viability—where opportunities naturally materialize and work feels meaningful rather than forced.</p>
<p>Anika's most transformative insight dismantles the success-demands-struggle myth by exposing its root cause: difficulty stems from misalignment between personal integrity and professional obligations, not inherent work difficulty. She illustrates this through decisive departures from six-figure positions that contradicted her values, demonstrating that staying in misaligned roles costs far more than the financial security they appear to offer.</p>
<p>Anika Jackson offers mission-driven professionals both philosophical framework and actionable strategy grounded in real-world results. She anticipates technology amplifying rather than replacing human connection, positioning authentic storytelling and relationship-building as increasingly valuable competitive advantages in saturated markets.</p>
<p>Connect with Anika at <a href="http://instagram.com/amplifywithanika"><strong>@amplifywithanika</strong></a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/yourbrandamplified"><strong>@yourbrandamplified</strong></a> on Instagram or visit her <a href="http://yourbrandedpodcast.com"><strong>website</strong> </a>for a comprehensive strategy and production support designed to align your expertise with authentic impact.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/anika-jackson-episode/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/"><strong>Anika Jackson</strong></a>'s trajectory from nonprofit coordinator to agency founder to USC professor proves that authentic success emerges from aligning personal values with purposeful work. She defines <em>flow state</em> as the intersection of talent, passion, and economic viability—where opportunities naturally materialize and work feels meaningful rather than forced.</p>
<p>Anika's most transformative insight dismantles the success-demands-struggle myth by exposing its root cause: difficulty stems from misalignment between personal integrity and professional obligations, not inherent work difficulty. She illustrates this through decisive departures from six-figure positions that contradicted her values, demonstrating that staying in misaligned roles costs far more than the financial security they appear to offer.</p>
<p>Anika Jackson offers mission-driven professionals both philosophical framework and actionable strategy grounded in real-world results. She anticipates technology amplifying rather than replacing human connection, positioning authentic storytelling and relationship-building as increasingly valuable competitive advantages in saturated markets.</p>
<p>Connect with Anika at <a href="http://instagram.com/amplifywithanika"><strong>@amplifywithanika</strong></a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/yourbrandamplified"><strong>@yourbrandamplified</strong></a> on Instagram or visit her <a href="http://yourbrandedpodcast.com"><strong>website</strong> </a>for a comprehensive strategy and production support designed to align your expertise with authentic impact.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Purpose Over Ambition: Building Your Personal Brand Empire with Anika Jackson</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:35</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Spanning from nonprofit event coordination in Houston to founding a full-service production and brand development agency in Los Angeles while simultaneously becoming a respected digital media professor at USC, Anika Jackson&apos;s career trajectory illuminates a fundamental truth about modern career development: the most meaningful paths are rarely linear, and success emerges from embracing unconventional opportunities. Her experiences reveal how seemingly unrelated opportunities can converge into a cohesive mission when guided by a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to empowering others.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Spanning from nonprofit event coordination in Houston to founding a full-service production and brand development agency in Los Angeles while simultaneously becoming a respected digital media professor at USC, Anika Jackson&apos;s career trajectory illuminates a fundamental truth about modern career development: the most meaningful paths are rarely linear, and success emerges from embracing unconventional opportunities. Her experiences reveal how seemingly unrelated opportunities can converge into a cohesive mission when guided by a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to empowering others.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Tonya Thomas</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about Tonya Thomas, founder of <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>Team Delegate</strong></a>, and explore her journey from aspiring physical therapist to mastering the art of intentional business leadership.</p>
<p>Tonya shares candid insights about debunking myths in the contracting industry, the critical importance of dedication despite managing multiple clients, and how daily spiritual practices transform both professional resilience and personal growth. Through her entrepreneurial ventures, she demonstrates that showing compassion and grace creates the most meaningful client connections and team dynamics.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Carrot cake—her mother's special recipe, a meaningful indulgence that mirrors her philosophy of balancing ambition with family values and finding substance in personal connections. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building invested client partnerships to morning routines of scripture study and prayer, the intersection of personal transformation and professional development, and why doing hard things remains the cornerstone of sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-with-tonya-thomas/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about Tonya Thomas, founder of <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>Team Delegate</strong></a>, and explore her journey from aspiring physical therapist to mastering the art of intentional business leadership.</p>
<p>Tonya shares candid insights about debunking myths in the contracting industry, the critical importance of dedication despite managing multiple clients, and how daily spiritual practices transform both professional resilience and personal growth. Through her entrepreneurial ventures, she demonstrates that showing compassion and grace creates the most meaningful client connections and team dynamics.</p>
<p>Her favorite cake? Carrot cake—her mother's special recipe, a meaningful indulgence that mirrors her philosophy of balancing ambition with family values and finding substance in personal connections. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building invested client partnerships to morning routines of scripture study and prayer, the intersection of personal transformation and professional development, and why doing hard things remains the cornerstone of sustainable success.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Tonya Thomas</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:03:38</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Meet Tonya Thomas, contractor, entrepreneur, and compassion advocate, sharing transformative insights on breaking industry myths and achieving sustainable success. Discover how challenging the misconception that contractors lack client investment can reshape your business relationships. Explore Tonya&apos;s personal journey of doing hard things and how self-discipline translates to business excellence.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Meet Tonya Thomas, contractor, entrepreneur, and compassion advocate, sharing transformative insights on breaking industry myths and achieving sustainable success. Discover how challenging the misconception that contractors lack client investment can reshape your business relationships. Explore Tonya&apos;s personal journey of doing hard things and how self-discipline translates to business excellence.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Beyond Task Management: Capacity-Building Delegation Mastery with Tonya Thomas</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyabthomas/"><strong>Tonya Thomas</strong> </a>has spent over two decades identifying why entrepreneurs fail to scale: they confuse motion with momentum. Her breakthrough insight is that delegation isn't about assigning basic tasks; it's a learned skill requiring strategic planning to identify which work only the leader can do and which can be distributed. By helping clients see this distinction, Tonya transforms how entrepreneurs allocate their most valuable resource: their time and attention.</p>
<p>After building a successful virtual assistant business from 2001, a business coach's observation that she'd created a job rather than a business eventually sparked her pivot to founding <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>Team Delegate</strong></a>. This personal transformation taught her that true leadership differs fundamentally from management—it cannot be copied from others but must be authentically developed. Her philosophy centers on proactive support that anticipates client needs rather than reactive assistance, enabling leaders to reclaim their strategic role.</p>
<p>Stop letting operational bottlenecks steal your growth. Visit their <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>to access Tonya's free Business Bottleneck Diagnostic—a strategic assessment that reveals exactly where your time, capacity, and revenue are being lost to preventable inefficiencies. Discover your top delegation opportunities and take the first step from overwhelmed executor to empowered strategic leader. Your breakthrough is waiting.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/beyond-task-management-capacity-building-delegation-mastery-with-tonya-thomas/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyabthomas/"><strong>Tonya Thomas</strong> </a>has spent over two decades identifying why entrepreneurs fail to scale: they confuse motion with momentum. Her breakthrough insight is that delegation isn't about assigning basic tasks; it's a learned skill requiring strategic planning to identify which work only the leader can do and which can be distributed. By helping clients see this distinction, Tonya transforms how entrepreneurs allocate their most valuable resource: their time and attention.</p>
<p>After building a successful virtual assistant business from 2001, a business coach's observation that she'd created a job rather than a business eventually sparked her pivot to founding <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>Team Delegate</strong></a>. This personal transformation taught her that true leadership differs fundamentally from management—it cannot be copied from others but must be authentically developed. Her philosophy centers on proactive support that anticipates client needs rather than reactive assistance, enabling leaders to reclaim their strategic role.</p>
<p>Stop letting operational bottlenecks steal your growth. Visit their <a href="https://www.teamdelegate.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>to access Tonya's free Business Bottleneck Diagnostic—a strategic assessment that reveals exactly where your time, capacity, and revenue are being lost to preventable inefficiencies. Discover your top delegation opportunities and take the first step from overwhelmed executor to empowered strategic leader. Your breakthrough is waiting.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:21:26</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>What sets Tonya Thomas apart is her recognition that delegation is not a natural skill for most people. It&apos;s a learned capability that requires strategy, planning, and ongoing mindfulness. Tonya has built her entire methodology around helping clients see beyond surface-level task delegation to strategic capacity creation. This personal epiphany became the catalyst for Team Delegate, a shift from being a solo practitioner to building an agency model. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>What sets Tonya Thomas apart is her recognition that delegation is not a natural skill for most people. It&apos;s a learned capability that requires strategy, planning, and ongoing mindfulness. Tonya has built her entire methodology around helping clients see beyond surface-level task delegation to strategic capacity creation. This personal epiphany became the catalyst for Team Delegate, a shift from being a solo practitioner to building an agency model. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Wyatt Meek</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/"><strong>Wyatt Meek</strong></a>, engineering leader and sales innovator, and explore his journey from aspiring pilot to mastering the art of consultative selling.</p>
<p>Wyatt shares candid insights about debunking myths in the sales industry, the critical importance of empathy in leadership, and how listening transforms both professional relationships and personal growth. Through <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong>Airista Flow</strong></a>, he demonstrates that understanding diverse perspectives creates the most meaningful customer connections and team dynamics.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Carrot cake—a versatile, moderately sweet indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of balancing ambition with patience and finding substance beyond surface-level interactions. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building trust-based partnerships to daily self-reflection routines, the intersection of mentorship and professional development, and why<em> trust but verify</em> remains the cornerstone of sound business decisions.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-with-wyatt-meek/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/"><strong>Wyatt Meek</strong></a>, engineering leader and sales innovator, and explore his journey from aspiring pilot to mastering the art of consultative selling.</p>
<p>Wyatt shares candid insights about debunking myths in the sales industry, the critical importance of empathy in leadership, and how listening transforms both professional relationships and personal growth. Through <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong>Airista Flow</strong></a>, he demonstrates that understanding diverse perspectives creates the most meaningful customer connections and team dynamics.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Carrot cake—a versatile, moderately sweet indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of balancing ambition with patience and finding substance beyond surface-level interactions. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from building trust-based partnerships to daily self-reflection routines, the intersection of mentorship and professional development, and why<em> trust but verify</em> remains the cornerstone of sound business decisions.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Wyatt Meek</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>We&apos;re bringing you Wyatt Meek, engineering leader and sales innovator, to share insights on consultative selling and customer empathy, the importance of listening in leadership, and the transformative power of mentorship.  Explore how intentional daily practices drive success, why balancing ambition with patience matters, and the profound impact mentoring the next generation can have on your professional growth. Discover why understanding diverse perspectives matters, the dangers of blind trust in business, and how running and self-reflection can clarify your priorities.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>We&apos;re bringing you Wyatt Meek, engineering leader and sales innovator, to share insights on consultative selling and customer empathy, the importance of listening in leadership, and the transformative power of mentorship.  Explore how intentional daily practices drive success, why balancing ambition with patience matters, and the profound impact mentoring the next generation can have on your professional growth. Discover why understanding diverse perspectives matters, the dangers of blind trust in business, and how running and self-reflection can clarify your priorities.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Wyatt Meek&apos;s Strategy for Sustainable Growth: Innovation Grounded in Real Business Value</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/">Wyatt Meek</a></strong>'s career trajectory reveals a deliberate pivot from conventional ambition to authentic purpose. He fundamentally redefined success around impact, continuous learning, and values alignment—even stepping away from VP-level positions to focus on direct customer outcomes. His willingness to challenge societal definitions of success offers a powerful model for professionals trapped in misaligned careers, proving that true achievement means waking up excited about work that matters.</p>
<p>Wyatt's leadership excellence stems from integrating personal growth with professional practice rather than following prescribed frameworks. Parenthood taught him the power of measured responses and deep listening; daily running practices anchor his self-reflection; and drawing from multiple leadership models rather than singular mentors cultivates authentic empathy. He translates these personal insights directly into organizational culture by emphasizing psychological safety, celebrating human impact alongside metrics, and demonstrating genuine care for his team during difficult times.</p>
<p>Wyatt Meek actively invites professionals and organizations to engage with Airista Flow's mission of transforming industries through real-time location technology. Those interested in learning more about the company's innovative solutions and proven track record can connect with them on <strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/">LinkedIn</a> </strong>or visit <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong><span>www.airistaflow.com</span></strong> </a>to explore case studies and industry-specific applications.</p>
<p>Beyond partnership opportunities, <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong>Airista Flow</strong> </a>is actively building its team and welcomes talented professionals to join their mission—the company is currently hiring across sales, marketing, and engineering roles for individuals passionate about solving real problems and driving meaningful impact.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/wyatt-meeks-strategy-for-sustainable-growth-innovation-grounded-in-real-business-value/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/">Wyatt Meek</a></strong>'s career trajectory reveals a deliberate pivot from conventional ambition to authentic purpose. He fundamentally redefined success around impact, continuous learning, and values alignment—even stepping away from VP-level positions to focus on direct customer outcomes. His willingness to challenge societal definitions of success offers a powerful model for professionals trapped in misaligned careers, proving that true achievement means waking up excited about work that matters.</p>
<p>Wyatt's leadership excellence stems from integrating personal growth with professional practice rather than following prescribed frameworks. Parenthood taught him the power of measured responses and deep listening; daily running practices anchor his self-reflection; and drawing from multiple leadership models rather than singular mentors cultivates authentic empathy. He translates these personal insights directly into organizational culture by emphasizing psychological safety, celebrating human impact alongside metrics, and demonstrating genuine care for his team during difficult times.</p>
<p>Wyatt Meek actively invites professionals and organizations to engage with Airista Flow's mission of transforming industries through real-time location technology. Those interested in learning more about the company's innovative solutions and proven track record can connect with them on <strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wyatt-meek-1714172/">LinkedIn</a> </strong>or visit <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong><span>www.airistaflow.com</span></strong> </a>to explore case studies and industry-specific applications.</p>
<p>Beyond partnership opportunities, <a href="https://www.airistaflow.com/"><strong>Airista Flow</strong> </a>is actively building its team and welcomes talented professionals to join their mission—the company is currently hiring across sales, marketing, and engineering roles for individuals passionate about solving real problems and driving meaningful impact.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Wyatt Meek&apos;s Strategy for Sustainable Growth: Innovation Grounded in Real Business Value</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:20:00</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Beginning with a mechanical engineering degree, Wyatt Meek&apos;s early career path might have seemed predetermined, yet his willingness to explore different engineering disciplines through a rotational co-op program became the inflection point that redirected his entire professional journey. Rather than pursuing traditional engineering roles, he recognized his true passion lay in the business and commercial side of technology. This early self-awareness became the foundation for a career that would consistently prioritize problem-solving and customer outcomes over purely financial metrics.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Beginning with a mechanical engineering degree, Wyatt Meek&apos;s early career path might have seemed predetermined, yet his willingness to explore different engineering disciplines through a rotational co-op program became the inflection point that redirected his entire professional journey. Rather than pursuing traditional engineering roles, he recognized his true passion lay in the business and commercial side of technology. This early self-awareness became the foundation for a career that would consistently prioritize problem-solving and customer outcomes over purely financial metrics.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Josh Thomas</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtliterally/">Josh Thomas</a></strong>, virtual assistant placement entrepreneur and business strategist, and explore his journey from aspiring Air Force pilot to building a resilient international team.</p>
<p>Josh shares candid insights about debunking myths in the virtual assistant industry, the power of daily operational structure, and how persistence transforms challenges into strength. Through his company <strong><a href="https://vaiq.net/">VAIQ</a></strong>, Josh demonstrates that empowerment within boundaries creates the most potent team growth.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Birthday butter cake with buttercream icing—a simple, buttery indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from international hiring strategies to daily productivity routines, the intersection of creativity and business acumen, and the transformative power of mentorship in unlocking hidden potential.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 8 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-with-josh-thomas/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtliterally/">Josh Thomas</a></strong>, virtual assistant placement entrepreneur and business strategist, and explore his journey from aspiring Air Force pilot to building a resilient international team.</p>
<p>Josh shares candid insights about debunking myths in the virtual assistant industry, the power of daily operational structure, and how persistence transforms challenges into strength. Through his company <strong><a href="https://vaiq.net/">VAIQ</a></strong>, Josh demonstrates that empowerment within boundaries creates the most potent team growth.</p>
<p>His favorite cake? Birthday butter cake with buttercream icing—a simple, buttery indulgence that mirrors his philosophy of doing the fundamentals exceptionally well. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from international hiring strategies to daily productivity routines, the intersection of creativity and business acumen, and the transformative power of mentorship in unlocking hidden potential.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Josh Thomas</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:13:10</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>We&apos;re bringing you Josh Thomas, virtual assistant placement entrepreneur and business strategist, to share insights on international talent acquisition, the power of daily operational structure, and building resilient teams through adversity. Uncover why 99% commitment isn&apos;t enough, how mentorship unlocks hidden potential in your team, and the discipline required to maintain focus when building a sustainable business.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>We&apos;re bringing you Josh Thomas, virtual assistant placement entrepreneur and business strategist, to share insights on international talent acquisition, the power of daily operational structure, and building resilient teams through adversity. Uncover why 99% commitment isn&apos;t enough, how mentorship unlocks hidden potential in your team, and the discipline required to maintain focus when building a sustainable business.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Operational Excellence with Josh Thomas: From Chaos to Compounding Results</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Most entrepreneurs believe success requires working harder or spending more on marketing. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtliterally/"><strong>Josh Thomas</strong> </a>discovered the opposite: the businesses struggling the most are already surrounded by untapped opportunities—they're simply too disorganized to capture them. By implementing clear operational systems around sales, messaging, and follow-up, he transformed a thirty-thousand-dollar monthly business into one hundred fifty thousand dollars in ninety days with zero additional marketing spend. The real asset isn't talent or charisma; it's the invisible infrastructure that allows a business to function predictably and scale.</p>
<p>Josh learned that founder-dependent businesses are fundamentally fragile. Customers care about results, not who delivers them, which means extracting yourself from delivery and building repeatable processes is essential for scaling. He also identified operational drift—the tendency for processes to degrade over time without oversight. This insight shaped his conviction that systems must be actively maintained. Additionally, the business landscape has shifted. Traditional advertising no longer works because buyers have been burned too many times. Success now depends on trust-based relationships and personal referrals rather than marketing claims.</p>
<p>If you're overwhelmed by responsibilities or frustrated by scaling limitations, the solution is operational structure plus qualified capacity. At <a href="https://vaiq.net/"><strong>VAIQ</strong></a>, they place high-performing virtual assistants into your business and manage them within tightly structured systems with daily oversight. Unlike typical agencies, VAIQ's performance-based model requires no long-term commitment—you only pay when results are delivered. Whether you need to reclaim your time or expand your production, VAIQ helps you achieve sustainable growth through operational excellence.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 6 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/operational-excellence-with-josh-thomas-creating-compounding-results-through-systems/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most entrepreneurs believe success requires working harder or spending more on marketing. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtliterally/"><strong>Josh Thomas</strong> </a>discovered the opposite: the businesses struggling the most are already surrounded by untapped opportunities—they're simply too disorganized to capture them. By implementing clear operational systems around sales, messaging, and follow-up, he transformed a thirty-thousand-dollar monthly business into one hundred fifty thousand dollars in ninety days with zero additional marketing spend. The real asset isn't talent or charisma; it's the invisible infrastructure that allows a business to function predictably and scale.</p>
<p>Josh learned that founder-dependent businesses are fundamentally fragile. Customers care about results, not who delivers them, which means extracting yourself from delivery and building repeatable processes is essential for scaling. He also identified operational drift—the tendency for processes to degrade over time without oversight. This insight shaped his conviction that systems must be actively maintained. Additionally, the business landscape has shifted. Traditional advertising no longer works because buyers have been burned too many times. Success now depends on trust-based relationships and personal referrals rather than marketing claims.</p>
<p>If you're overwhelmed by responsibilities or frustrated by scaling limitations, the solution is operational structure plus qualified capacity. At <a href="https://vaiq.net/"><strong>VAIQ</strong></a>, they place high-performing virtual assistants into your business and manage them within tightly structured systems with daily oversight. Unlike typical agencies, VAIQ's performance-based model requires no long-term commitment—you only pay when results are delivered. Whether you need to reclaim your time or expand your production, VAIQ helps you achieve sustainable growth through operational excellence.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Operational Excellence with Josh Thomas: From Chaos to Compounding Results</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Josh Thomas&apos;s journey reveals a fundamental truth that most entrepreneurs overlook: the difference between those who struggle perpetually and those who achieve exponential growth often comes down to one critical factor—operational structure. His evolution from a struggling entrepreneur to a serial builder of seven-figure businesses wasn&apos;t driven by luck or a single breakthrough idea, but rather by his relentless focus on understanding how businesses actually operate at their core.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Josh Thomas&apos;s journey reveals a fundamental truth that most entrepreneurs overlook: the difference between those who struggle perpetually and those who achieve exponential growth often comes down to one critical factor—operational structure. His evolution from a struggling entrepreneur to a serial builder of seven-figure businesses wasn&apos;t driven by luck or a single breakthrough idea, but rather by his relentless focus on understanding how businesses actually operate at their core.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Cake Bites with Roland Smart</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>Roland Smart</strong></a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a> and mental health entrepreneur, and explore his journey from aspiring artist to business leader. Roland shares candid insights about navigating the complexities of the mental health sector, the importance of consumer education, and how creativity and structure coexist in his work.</p>
<p>Roland's childhood dream of becoming an artist continues to shape his approach to business and creativity. He highlights a significant gap in the mental health market: consumers often lack the education and information needed to make informed decisions, especially when they're most vulnerable and seeking help.</p>
<p>Through <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>, Roland Smart teaches DBT's <em>wise mind</em> skill—helping people integrate emotional and rational perspectives to make balanced, values-aligned decisions. His favorite cake? Vanilla cupcakes with fruit fillings, which he uses as a metaphor for MVPs in agile product development. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from daily productivity habits to business philosophy and the transformative power of mentorship.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 1 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/cake-bites-roland-smart-ceo-of-therahive-and-mental-health-innovator/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Cake Bites, where we go rapid-fire with this week's rule breaker—fast questions, real answers, zero corporate polish. Let's learn more about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>Roland Smart</strong></a>, CEO of <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a> and mental health entrepreneur, and explore his journey from aspiring artist to business leader. Roland shares candid insights about navigating the complexities of the mental health sector, the importance of consumer education, and how creativity and structure coexist in his work.</p>
<p>Roland's childhood dream of becoming an artist continues to shape his approach to business and creativity. He highlights a significant gap in the mental health market: consumers often lack the education and information needed to make informed decisions, especially when they're most vulnerable and seeking help.</p>
<p>Through <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>, Roland Smart teaches DBT's <em>wise mind</em> skill—helping people integrate emotional and rational perspectives to make balanced, values-aligned decisions. His favorite cake? Vanilla cupcakes with fruit fillings, which he uses as a metaphor for MVPs in agile product development. With a focus on practical wisdom and real-world application, this conversation covers everything from daily productivity habits to business philosophy and the transformative power of mentorship.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Cake Bites with Roland Smart</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:subtitle>We&apos;re bringing you Roland Smart, CEO of TheraHive and mental health entrepreneur, to share insights on consumer education in mental health, the intersection of creativity and structure in business, and the transformative power of mentorship. Get ready for practical wisdom on productivity systems, business philosophy, and the balance between innovation and business viability.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Breaking the Cost Barrier: Roland Smart on Accessible Mental Health Education</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>Roland Smart</strong> </a>recognized a fundamental gap: most people never learn the mental health skills that actually determine quality of life. Through <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>, he's democratizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy—translating expensive clinical interventions into accessible online education. His core insight is that transformation doesn't require years of insight-oriented therapy or understanding your past; it requires learning concrete skills like emotion regulation and distress tolerance that you can apply immediately when you need them most. Skills-based learning works because it changes behavior in the present moment, not through intellectual understanding alone.</p>
<p>Roland's journey reveals a deeper wisdom about leadership and purpose-driven work. He understands that doing emotionally demanding work requires intentional practices: his weekly gratitude messages to the team model the very skills TheraHive teaches, filling people's emotional capacity so they can serve vulnerable populations with sustained compassion. His bootstrapped approach reflects strategic discipline—constraints force clarity about what truly matters, preventing the waste that unlimited resources often create. Roland embodies the principle he teaches: you don't need perfect conditions to create transformation. You need skill, practice, and commitment to what matters.</p>
<p>To explore how mental health skills education can transform lives and create accessibility to evidence-based psychological interventions, connect with Roland Smart on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>LinkedIn </strong></a>or visit <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>. The future of human development lies not in replacing human connection, but in using education and technology to extend it—making essential skills available to everyone, not just those who can afford expensive therapy.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/breaking-the-cost-barrier-roland-smart-on-accessible-mental-health-education/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>Roland Smart</strong> </a>recognized a fundamental gap: most people never learn the mental health skills that actually determine quality of life. Through <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>, he's democratizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy—translating expensive clinical interventions into accessible online education. His core insight is that transformation doesn't require years of insight-oriented therapy or understanding your past; it requires learning concrete skills like emotion regulation and distress tolerance that you can apply immediately when you need them most. Skills-based learning works because it changes behavior in the present moment, not through intellectual understanding alone.</p>
<p>Roland's journey reveals a deeper wisdom about leadership and purpose-driven work. He understands that doing emotionally demanding work requires intentional practices: his weekly gratitude messages to the team model the very skills TheraHive teaches, filling people's emotional capacity so they can serve vulnerable populations with sustained compassion. His bootstrapped approach reflects strategic discipline—constraints force clarity about what truly matters, preventing the waste that unlimited resources often create. Roland embodies the principle he teaches: you don't need perfect conditions to create transformation. You need skill, practice, and commitment to what matters.</p>
<p>To explore how mental health skills education can transform lives and create accessibility to evidence-based psychological interventions, connect with Roland Smart on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolandsmart/"><strong>LinkedIn </strong></a>or visit <a href="https://www.therahive.com/"><strong>TheraHive</strong></a>. The future of human development lies not in replacing human connection, but in using education and technology to extend it—making essential skills available to everyone, not just those who can afford expensive therapy.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:40</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Roland Smart stands at the intersection of a critical gap in modern society—the absence of essential mental health skills education that should have been foundational to everyone&apos;s upbringing. His work through TheraHive represents far more than a business venture; it embodies a mission to democratize access to transformative psychological interventions that have been confined to expensive, high-touch clinical settings for far too long. The core insight driving his work is deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful: mental health skills are teachable, learnable, and when properly structured, can create measurable life transformation for people across the entire spectrum of human experience.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Roland Smart stands at the intersection of a critical gap in modern society—the absence of essential mental health skills education that should have been foundational to everyone&apos;s upbringing. His work through TheraHive represents far more than a business venture; it embodies a mission to democratize access to transformative psychological interventions that have been confined to expensive, high-touch clinical settings for far too long. The core insight driving his work is deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful: mental health skills are teachable, learnable, and when properly structured, can create measurable life transformation for people across the entire spectrum of human experience.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>32</itunes:episode>
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      <title>A Christmas Special: Building Workplace Joy Through Celebration and Positivity</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>The best memories in professional life emerge not from hitting targets, but from moments when teams collectively acknowledged and celebrated milestones together. When leaders recognize that team members are navigating life achievements outside the sphere of work, they create cultures where people feel seen, valued, and connected as whole human beings.</p>
<p>The timing of celebration matters profoundly, especially during the darkest and most challenging times. When frustration mounts, when loss weighs heavily, when pain threatens to overwhelm, that is precisely when teams need to laugh together, find moments of joy, and celebrate even the smallest victories. This is not escapism but a strategic recognition that joy and laughter serve as powerful antidotes to despair. Leaders who understand this principle become architects of resilience within their organizations.</p>
<p>This Christmas season presents the perfect opportunity to transform your workplace culture by prioritizing celebration and joy. Do not let this moment pass by—gather your team, acknowledge their victories both big and small, celebrate the personal milestones and life achievements that make them whole human beings, and be the light in your organization when the nights are dark and the roads are long. Merry Christmas!</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/a-christmas-special-building-workplace-joy-through-celebration-and-positivity/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The best memories in professional life emerge not from hitting targets, but from moments when teams collectively acknowledged and celebrated milestones together. When leaders recognize that team members are navigating life achievements outside the sphere of work, they create cultures where people feel seen, valued, and connected as whole human beings.</p>
<p>The timing of celebration matters profoundly, especially during the darkest and most challenging times. When frustration mounts, when loss weighs heavily, when pain threatens to overwhelm, that is precisely when teams need to laugh together, find moments of joy, and celebrate even the smallest victories. This is not escapism but a strategic recognition that joy and laughter serve as powerful antidotes to despair. Leaders who understand this principle become architects of resilience within their organizations.</p>
<p>This Christmas season presents the perfect opportunity to transform your workplace culture by prioritizing celebration and joy. Do not let this moment pass by—gather your team, acknowledge their victories both big and small, celebrate the personal milestones and life achievements that make them whole human beings, and be the light in your organization when the nights are dark and the roads are long. Merry Christmas!</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>A Christmas Special: Building Workplace Joy Through Celebration and Positivity</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:03:01</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Celebration at work remains one of the most underprioritized yet vital elements of organizational culture and team resilience. In environments where productivity dominates the conversation and metrics drive decision-making, the simple act of acknowledging and celebrating milestones—both professional and personal—often falls by the wayside. Yet this oversight represents a missed opportunity for leaders to fundamentally transform how their teams navigate challenges, build connections, and sustain motivation through difficult seasons. Join Elizabeth Bieniek in this Christmas Special as she explores powerful insights on why leaders must prioritize joy and recognition, and how celebration becomes the cornerstone of building resilient, connected, and thriving teams.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Celebration at work remains one of the most underprioritized yet vital elements of organizational culture and team resilience. In environments where productivity dominates the conversation and metrics drive decision-making, the simple act of acknowledging and celebrating milestones—both professional and personal—often falls by the wayside. Yet this oversight represents a missed opportunity for leaders to fundamentally transform how their teams navigate challenges, build connections, and sustain motivation through difficult seasons. Join Elizabeth Bieniek in this Christmas Special as she explores powerful insights on why leaders must prioritize joy and recognition, and how celebration becomes the cornerstone of building resilient, connected, and thriving teams.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Future of Transparent Tech: Dr. Craig Kaplan on Building Safer, Autonomous Systems</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigakaplan"><strong>Dr. Craig Kaplan</strong></a>’s lifelong dedication to artificial intelligence is marked by his insistence on merging technical innovation with ethical responsibility. His extensive experience, from working alongside AI pioneers to leading research and startups, has shaped a vision where intelligent systems must be both powerful and aligned with human values. Kaplan embraces the necessity for society to actively engage with AI, advocating for mindfulness in online interactions, as every engagement helps shape the capabilities and ethics of emerging systems.</p>
<p>Throughout his journey, Kaplan has underscored the impending transformation of AI from mere tools to autonomous entities, stressing the need to build systems that not only boost productivity but also embody transparency and safety. He believes success and fulfillment stem from following intrinsic passions, maintaining critical thinking when using AI, and understanding the collective impact of individual digital behaviors on the development of safer, more ethical technologies.</p>
<p>For those eager to explore practical approaches and deeper insights into designing safer, more transparent AI, Dr. Kaplan offers valuable resources and ongoing research through iQ Company. To see how these principles are put into action and learn more about the future of ethical, responsible AI, visit <strong><a href="https://www.iqco.com/about-iq"><span>https://www.iqco.com/about-iq</span></a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/unlocking-responsible-ai-dr-craig-kaplan-on-building-safer-autonomous-systems/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigakaplan"><strong>Dr. Craig Kaplan</strong></a>’s lifelong dedication to artificial intelligence is marked by his insistence on merging technical innovation with ethical responsibility. His extensive experience, from working alongside AI pioneers to leading research and startups, has shaped a vision where intelligent systems must be both powerful and aligned with human values. Kaplan embraces the necessity for society to actively engage with AI, advocating for mindfulness in online interactions, as every engagement helps shape the capabilities and ethics of emerging systems.</p>
<p>Throughout his journey, Kaplan has underscored the impending transformation of AI from mere tools to autonomous entities, stressing the need to build systems that not only boost productivity but also embody transparency and safety. He believes success and fulfillment stem from following intrinsic passions, maintaining critical thinking when using AI, and understanding the collective impact of individual digital behaviors on the development of safer, more ethical technologies.</p>
<p>For those eager to explore practical approaches and deeper insights into designing safer, more transparent AI, Dr. Kaplan offers valuable resources and ongoing research through iQ Company. To see how these principles are put into action and learn more about the future of ethical, responsible AI, visit <strong><a href="https://www.iqco.com/about-iq"><span>https://www.iqco.com/about-iq</span></a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Future of Transparent Tech: Dr. Craig Kaplan on Building Safer, Autonomous Systems</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:39</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr. Craig Kaplan stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of artificial intelligence, blending decades of practical innovation with deep academic roots. His lifelong fascination with intelligent systems, both human and artificial, set the trajectory for his career as he explored the cognitive processes that underpin not only human thought but also the intricate architectures of AI. Dr. Kaplan advocates for a balanced pursuit that does not slow innovation but rather integrates safety within the velocity of progress. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr. Craig Kaplan stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of artificial intelligence, blending decades of practical innovation with deep academic roots. His lifelong fascination with intelligent systems, both human and artificial, set the trajectory for his career as he explored the cognitive processes that underpin not only human thought but also the intricate architectures of AI. Dr. Kaplan advocates for a balanced pursuit that does not slow innovation but rather integrates safety within the velocity of progress. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Media Meets AI: Dr. Tamara Patzer on the Future of Visibility and Trust Online</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/tamarapatzer"><strong>Dr. Tamara Patzer</strong> </a>is pioneering the future of digital visibility by shifting the focus from traditional SEO tactics to the emerging concept of AI suggestibility. Drawing from her multidisciplinary background in communications, instructional technology, and creative writing, she has developed innovative systems that help experts and organizations secure not only higher visibility but also greater trust and credibility, both with people and intelligent algorithms. Her distinctive approach centers on crafting fact-based, structured, and source-backed content that aligns perfectly with how leading AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and others now evaluate and recommend information.</p>
<p>Through her work with the AI Visibility Project, Genesis Trust Verified, and various publishing initiatives, Dr. Patzer empowers doctors, authors, and thought leaders to amplify their media authority and build lasting legacies. She demonstrates that success in today’s digital world relies on more than visibility—it demands being recommended by AI and trusted by audiences. By helping clients publish professional books, run high-impact media campaigns, and create content ecosystems tailored to AI’s preferences, she enables them to stand out, build authority, and future-proof their message for the next wave of technological change.</p>
<p>For anyone looking to elevate their visibility, increase their AI trust score, and establish media authority that endures, Dr. Tamara Patzer offers the proven expertise and systems to get there. Discover how you can optimize your brand and legacy for the digital age by connecting with her on <a href="https://facebook.com/tamarapatzer"><strong><span>Facebook</span> </strong></a>and <strong><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/tamarapatzer"><span>LinkedIn</span></a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 9 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/tamara-tami-patzer/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/tamarapatzer"><strong>Dr. Tamara Patzer</strong> </a>is pioneering the future of digital visibility by shifting the focus from traditional SEO tactics to the emerging concept of AI suggestibility. Drawing from her multidisciplinary background in communications, instructional technology, and creative writing, she has developed innovative systems that help experts and organizations secure not only higher visibility but also greater trust and credibility, both with people and intelligent algorithms. Her distinctive approach centers on crafting fact-based, structured, and source-backed content that aligns perfectly with how leading AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and others now evaluate and recommend information.</p>
<p>Through her work with the AI Visibility Project, Genesis Trust Verified, and various publishing initiatives, Dr. Patzer empowers doctors, authors, and thought leaders to amplify their media authority and build lasting legacies. She demonstrates that success in today’s digital world relies on more than visibility—it demands being recommended by AI and trusted by audiences. By helping clients publish professional books, run high-impact media campaigns, and create content ecosystems tailored to AI’s preferences, she enables them to stand out, build authority, and future-proof their message for the next wave of technological change.</p>
<p>For anyone looking to elevate their visibility, increase their AI trust score, and establish media authority that endures, Dr. Tamara Patzer offers the proven expertise and systems to get there. Discover how you can optimize your brand and legacy for the digital age by connecting with her on <a href="https://facebook.com/tamarapatzer"><strong><span>Facebook</span> </strong></a>and <strong><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/tamarapatzer"><span>LinkedIn</span></a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Media Meets AI: Dr. Tamara Patzer on the Future of Visibility and Trust Online</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:30:18</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dr. Tamara Patzer stands out as an innovator at the forefront of the AI-driven transformation of digital visibility and reputation management. Drawing upon a uniquely diverse educational background that bridges mass communications, instructional technology, creative writing, and business management, she embodies the rare blend of skills essential for navigating today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Her approach centers on the philosophy that visibility in the modern era transcends traditional SEO and is defined instead by AI suggestibility, a concept she champions as the next frontier for individuals and organizations seeking relevance and influence.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dr. Tamara Patzer stands out as an innovator at the forefront of the AI-driven transformation of digital visibility and reputation management. Drawing upon a uniquely diverse educational background that bridges mass communications, instructional technology, creative writing, and business management, she embodies the rare blend of skills essential for navigating today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Her approach centers on the philosophy that visibility in the modern era transcends traditional SEO and is defined instead by AI suggestibility, a concept she champions as the next frontier for individuals and organizations seeking relevance and influence.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>From Classroom to Executive Leadership: Erika Benadom on Empowering Teams and Fostering Positive Work Culture</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikahuyettebenadom/"><strong>Erika Benadom</strong></a>’s professional journey exemplifies adaptive leadership fueled by a passion for empowering people and driving meaningful change. Drawing from early multicultural experiences and a foundation in education, she transitioned from teaching into technology leadership, guided by a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and operational excellence. Her roles have been defined by lifting obstacles for others and transforming organizations to better serve diverse communities.</p>
<p>Throughout her career, Erika has demonstrated humility, resilience, and a keen ability to translate educational insights into value for high-growth tech companies. Her leadership emphasizes the importance of recognition, psychological safety, and building cultures where team members not only succeed but are celebrated for their unique contributions. By merging educational philosophy with business acumen in her current role at Zensai, she continues to bridge gaps between learning, engagement, and performance in corporate environments.</p>
<p>For organizations looking to create cultures of growth and success, Erika’s journey is a blueprint for meaningful disruption and people-centric leadership. Discover how Zensai’s integrated HR and learning solutions can empower your teams and transform your workplace <a href="https://zensai.com"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 2 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/erika-benadom/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikahuyettebenadom/"><strong>Erika Benadom</strong></a>’s professional journey exemplifies adaptive leadership fueled by a passion for empowering people and driving meaningful change. Drawing from early multicultural experiences and a foundation in education, she transitioned from teaching into technology leadership, guided by a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and operational excellence. Her roles have been defined by lifting obstacles for others and transforming organizations to better serve diverse communities.</p>
<p>Throughout her career, Erika has demonstrated humility, resilience, and a keen ability to translate educational insights into value for high-growth tech companies. Her leadership emphasizes the importance of recognition, psychological safety, and building cultures where team members not only succeed but are celebrated for their unique contributions. By merging educational philosophy with business acumen in her current role at Zensai, she continues to bridge gaps between learning, engagement, and performance in corporate environments.</p>
<p>For organizations looking to create cultures of growth and success, Erika’s journey is a blueprint for meaningful disruption and people-centric leadership. Discover how Zensai’s integrated HR and learning solutions can empower your teams and transform your workplace <a href="https://zensai.com"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>From Classroom to Executive Leadership: Erika Benadom on Empowering Teams and Fostering Positive Work Culture</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>Having begun her professional journey in diverse, multicultural environments abroad, Erika Benadom’s fluency in Spanish and foundational experiences outside the United States shaped her worldview early on. This broad perspective fueled her passion for education and ultimately led her into teaching in Los Angeles, where she found a deeper sense of purpose in service rather than adhering strictly to her initial business education. Her transition from educator to technology director in the 1990s was motivated not only by the era’s seismic shifts toward digital learning but also by a fundamental drive to address the root challenges of educational equity and operational efficacy.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Having begun her professional journey in diverse, multicultural environments abroad, Erika Benadom’s fluency in Spanish and foundational experiences outside the United States shaped her worldview early on. This broad perspective fueled her passion for education and ultimately led her into teaching in Los Angeles, where she found a deeper sense of purpose in service rather than adhering strictly to her initial business education. Her transition from educator to technology director in the 1990s was motivated not only by the era’s seismic shifts toward digital learning but also by a fundamental drive to address the root challenges of educational equity and operational efficacy.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Thanksgiving Special: Embracing Gratitude and Sparking Game-Changing Ideas</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this Thanksgiving special, Elizabeth Bieniek dives deep into the transformative power of gratitude as shared by some of the most innovative minds in the corporate world. She explores how leaders and professionals who embrace gratefulness not only foster resilience and personal growth but also drive organizational innovation by appreciating every step of their journey. Her insights reveal that true progress is measured not by distant goals, but by recognizing the value and lessons of each experience, ultimately nurturing humility and a relentless drive to learn and improve.</p>
<p>Elizabeth highlights how many trailblazers attribute their career-defining moments to individuals who believed in them, often at a time when they couldn’t see their own potential. From mentors who offered pivotal encouragement to colleagues whose feedback inspired a new direction, these acts of acknowledgement have far-reaching impact. Gratitude, when expressed and paid forward, builds a culture of appreciation, boosts morale, and becomes a key ingredient for sustained innovation and collective success.</p>
<p>As a call to action, Elizabeth urges you to actively express your thankfulness: identify one impactful person from your professional life and send them a thank-you message expressing your gratitude. Reach out to current colleagues or acquaintances to recognize and thank them for their unique contributions and positive influence. By doing so, you not only honor those who have shaped your path but also help create environments where collaboration and innovation flourish.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/thanksgiving-special-embracing-gratitude-and-sparking-game-changing-ideas/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this Thanksgiving special, Elizabeth Bieniek dives deep into the transformative power of gratitude as shared by some of the most innovative minds in the corporate world. She explores how leaders and professionals who embrace gratefulness not only foster resilience and personal growth but also drive organizational innovation by appreciating every step of their journey. Her insights reveal that true progress is measured not by distant goals, but by recognizing the value and lessons of each experience, ultimately nurturing humility and a relentless drive to learn and improve.</p>
<p>Elizabeth highlights how many trailblazers attribute their career-defining moments to individuals who believed in them, often at a time when they couldn’t see their own potential. From mentors who offered pivotal encouragement to colleagues whose feedback inspired a new direction, these acts of acknowledgement have far-reaching impact. Gratitude, when expressed and paid forward, builds a culture of appreciation, boosts morale, and becomes a key ingredient for sustained innovation and collective success.</p>
<p>As a call to action, Elizabeth urges you to actively express your thankfulness: identify one impactful person from your professional life and send them a thank-you message expressing your gratitude. Reach out to current colleagues or acquaintances to recognize and thank them for their unique contributions and positive influence. By doing so, you not only honor those who have shaped your path but also help create environments where collaboration and innovation flourish.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Thanksgiving Special: Embracing Gratitude and Sparking Game-Changing Ideas</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:07:37</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Embracing gratitude can act as a powerful catalyst for both personal growth and organizational innovation. Harnessing this mindset, leaders and professionals who break the mold often attribute their success not merely to ambition or skill, but to a deep appreciation for their journeys, setbacks, and the people who helped shape their paths. Elizabeth Bieniek gathered from those who have dared to disrupt industries, a consistent theme emerges: the cultivation of gratitude is more than an emotional nicety. It is a strategic advantage. This Thanksgiving, join Elizabeth in honoring the power of thankfulness—celebrating the lessons learned, the progress made, and the individuals who have helped us along the way. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Embracing gratitude can act as a powerful catalyst for both personal growth and organizational innovation. Harnessing this mindset, leaders and professionals who break the mold often attribute their success not merely to ambition or skill, but to a deep appreciation for their journeys, setbacks, and the people who helped shape their paths. Elizabeth Bieniek gathered from those who have dared to disrupt industries, a consistent theme emerges: the cultivation of gratitude is more than an emotional nicety. It is a strategic advantage. This Thanksgiving, join Elizabeth in honoring the power of thankfulness—celebrating the lessons learned, the progress made, and the individuals who have helped us along the way. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Beyond Branding: Dawn Kennedy’s Blueprint for Defining Your Business DNA</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-kennedy-39618834/"><strong>Dawn Kennedy</strong></a> brings together legal expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and operational know-how to help small business owners navigate the complexities of sustainable growth and risk management. She reinforces the significance of not only defining what a business stands for but also establishing clear boundaries around what it will not do. Using Convoy Road Coffee Roasters as a case study, Dawn illustrates how non-negotiable standards—like never offering flavored coffee or opening a cafe—inform all business decisions, helping maintain strategic focus and a strong brand identity even when market trends or peer pressure point in other directions.</p>
<p>Dawn advocates for the development and documentation of internal doctrines and decision-making frameworks that go deeper than simple branding or values statements. She encourages small businesses to use strategic intelligence and market research, bolstered by accessible AI tools, to gather actionable data, adapt to shifts in the industry, and avoid the chaos of constant reaction. By making strategic choices—such as adding value rather than slashing prices in response to market changes—businesses can stay resilient without losing sight of their core purpose. Dawn’s methods emphasize the balance of thoughtful, patient planning with agility, empowering business owners to navigate challenges confidently.</p>
<p>If you want to strengthen your business’s foundations, minimize risk, and position yourself for long-term growth, connect with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-kennedy-39618834/"><strong>Dawn Kennedy</strong></a>. Visit her consulting company at <a href="http://dawnkkennedy.com"><strong>dawnkkennedy.com</strong></a> for insights on strategy, operations, and business resilience, or reach out through <strong><a href="http://dawnkennedylaw.com">dawnkennedylaw.com</a></strong> for expert legal support tailored to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Dawn’s guidance can help you build the frameworks and systems needed to make confident decisions and thrive in today’s fast-changing market.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/beyond-branding-dawn-kennedys-blueprint-for-defining-your-business-dna/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-kennedy-39618834/"><strong>Dawn Kennedy</strong></a> brings together legal expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and operational know-how to help small business owners navigate the complexities of sustainable growth and risk management. She reinforces the significance of not only defining what a business stands for but also establishing clear boundaries around what it will not do. Using Convoy Road Coffee Roasters as a case study, Dawn illustrates how non-negotiable standards—like never offering flavored coffee or opening a cafe—inform all business decisions, helping maintain strategic focus and a strong brand identity even when market trends or peer pressure point in other directions.</p>
<p>Dawn advocates for the development and documentation of internal doctrines and decision-making frameworks that go deeper than simple branding or values statements. She encourages small businesses to use strategic intelligence and market research, bolstered by accessible AI tools, to gather actionable data, adapt to shifts in the industry, and avoid the chaos of constant reaction. By making strategic choices—such as adding value rather than slashing prices in response to market changes—businesses can stay resilient without losing sight of their core purpose. Dawn’s methods emphasize the balance of thoughtful, patient planning with agility, empowering business owners to navigate challenges confidently.</p>
<p>If you want to strengthen your business’s foundations, minimize risk, and position yourself for long-term growth, connect with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-kennedy-39618834/"><strong>Dawn Kennedy</strong></a>. Visit her consulting company at <a href="http://dawnkkennedy.com"><strong>dawnkkennedy.com</strong></a> for insights on strategy, operations, and business resilience, or reach out through <strong><a href="http://dawnkennedylaw.com">dawnkennedylaw.com</a></strong> for expert legal support tailored to entrepreneurs and small business owners. Dawn’s guidance can help you build the frameworks and systems needed to make confident decisions and thrive in today’s fast-changing market.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Beyond Branding: Dawn Kennedy’s Blueprint for Defining Your Business DNA</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:28:59</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>Dawn Kennedy stands out as a multifaceted leader whose entrepreneurial and professional journey reveals a deep commitment to the safeguarding and empowerment of small businesses. Drawing on her combined backgrounds as an attorney, business consultant, and CEO of Convoy Road Coffee Roasters, Dawn emphasizes that the core mission of her work goes far beyond transactional success. Her passion is rooted in protecting small businesses from both legal and operational vulnerabilities, instilling in owners a sense of agency and practical knowledge that transcends fleeting trends or external perceptions. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Dawn Kennedy stands out as a multifaceted leader whose entrepreneurial and professional journey reveals a deep commitment to the safeguarding and empowerment of small businesses. Drawing on her combined backgrounds as an attorney, business consultant, and CEO of Convoy Road Coffee Roasters, Dawn emphasizes that the core mission of her work goes far beyond transactional success. Her passion is rooted in protecting small businesses from both legal and operational vulnerabilities, instilling in owners a sense of agency and practical knowledge that transcends fleeting trends or external perceptions. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Honoring Sacrifice: Matt Maples on Redefining Veteran Transition Success with USA Cares</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmaples/"><strong>Matt Maples</strong> </a>has dedicated his career to addressing the critical and often overlooked challenges that veterans face as they reintegrate into civilian life. Through his leadership with USA Cares, he has focused on ensuring that veterans and their families receive the emergency support they need during moments of crisis—often stepping in to prevent homelessness, utility shutoffs, and catastrophic financial instability. Matt’s mission recognizes the complexity of the veteran experience, acknowledging the difficulties veterans face when navigating bureaucratic processes for benefits and the mental health burdens that can intensify during times of uncertainty.</p>
<p>A key takeaway from Matt’s work is the urgent need for both rapid intervention and long-term, holistic care for those who have served. He stresses that veterans require more than delayed promises; they need immediate help that provides stability and peace of mind, breaking the cycle that too often leads from financial adversity to mental health crises. His approach extends beyond financial assistance—it is about restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of community for veterans who may be at the edge of despair. The stories shared from grateful veteran families are a testament to how timely, compassionate aid can change—and even save—lives.</p>
<p>Matt calls on the public to take direct, meaningful action by donating to support Texas veterans. This simple, recurring contribution has the power to provide essential resources and life-saving intervention for those in need. To join this vital mission and help protect the lives of veterans, please visit <a href="https://austintxchapter.funraise.org"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/honoring-sacrifice-matt-maples-on-redefining-veteran-transition-success-with-usa-cares/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmaples/"><strong>Matt Maples</strong> </a>has dedicated his career to addressing the critical and often overlooked challenges that veterans face as they reintegrate into civilian life. Through his leadership with USA Cares, he has focused on ensuring that veterans and their families receive the emergency support they need during moments of crisis—often stepping in to prevent homelessness, utility shutoffs, and catastrophic financial instability. Matt’s mission recognizes the complexity of the veteran experience, acknowledging the difficulties veterans face when navigating bureaucratic processes for benefits and the mental health burdens that can intensify during times of uncertainty.</p>
<p>A key takeaway from Matt’s work is the urgent need for both rapid intervention and long-term, holistic care for those who have served. He stresses that veterans require more than delayed promises; they need immediate help that provides stability and peace of mind, breaking the cycle that too often leads from financial adversity to mental health crises. His approach extends beyond financial assistance—it is about restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of community for veterans who may be at the edge of despair. The stories shared from grateful veteran families are a testament to how timely, compassionate aid can change—and even save—lives.</p>
<p>Matt calls on the public to take direct, meaningful action by donating to support Texas veterans. This simple, recurring contribution has the power to provide essential resources and life-saving intervention for those in need. To join this vital mission and help protect the lives of veterans, please visit <a href="https://austintxchapter.funraise.org"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Honoring Sacrifice: Matt Maples on Redefining Veteran Transition Success with USA Cares</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/7473c0c5-f6c1-4de4-a354-e2e3d71f4ec5/3000x3000/44.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
      <itunes:duration>00:19:30</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>At the heart of Matt Maples&apos; professional journey lies USA Cares, an organization founded in 2003 by Army veterans who recognized the immense challenges faced by those returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. His mission is centered in supporting veterans, not just about charity. Matt leads the charge to honoring their sacrifice and investing in their future with the same urgency and devotion they demonstrated in service to the nation. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>At the heart of Matt Maples&apos; professional journey lies USA Cares, an organization founded in 2003 by Army veterans who recognized the immense challenges faced by those returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. His mission is centered in supporting veterans, not just about charity. Matt leads the charge to honoring their sacrifice and investing in their future with the same urgency and devotion they demonstrated in service to the nation. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Crafting Systematic Intelligence: Laurie Kenley on Conscious AI Partnership</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakenley/"><strong>Laurie Kenley</strong></a>’s approach to innovation is built on the principle that technology should serve as a true partner in unlocking human creativity and potential. Drawing upon her systems engineering expertise, she has demonstrated how intelligent agents and AI can be integrated into everyday workflows to solve real-world challenges—making processes like personal branding, shopping, and project management not only faster and more efficient, but also uniquely tailored to individual needs and preferences. By leveraging AI in this way, Laurie empowers individuals to reclaim time, save resources, and enjoy a more personalized and joyful creation experience, all without sacrificing quality or the human touch.</p>
<p>A key part of Laurie’s philosophy is her insistence on reliability and consistency within AI tools, which ensures that technology remains a trustworthy foundation for ongoing innovation. The systems and solutions she crafts are designed to be both adaptable and dependable, supporting long-term growth for users and organizations alike. Laurie’s methods emphasize that impactful change happens at the intersection of robust technology and intuitive, human-centered design—a core value embedded in her work at Silica Intelligence.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.silicaintelligence.com/"><strong>Silica Intelligence</strong></a> is dedicated to making AI accessible, practical, and enriching for everyone—whether you’re an individual looking to amplify your creative process or a business seeking to optimize innovation through human-first solutions. Laurie invites you to be part of this mission by following her journey, engaging with Silica Intelligence’s updates and resources, and experiencing firsthand how a playful yet purposeful approach to AI can transform both productivity and personal fulfillment. For early access or inquiries, reach out to them <a href="hello@silicaintelligence.com"><strong>here</strong></a>, and stay tuned for the launch of the Silica Intelligence website coming soon.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 4 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/crafting-systematic-intelligence-laurie-kenley-on-conscious-ai-partnership/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakenley/"><strong>Laurie Kenley</strong></a>’s approach to innovation is built on the principle that technology should serve as a true partner in unlocking human creativity and potential. Drawing upon her systems engineering expertise, she has demonstrated how intelligent agents and AI can be integrated into everyday workflows to solve real-world challenges—making processes like personal branding, shopping, and project management not only faster and more efficient, but also uniquely tailored to individual needs and preferences. By leveraging AI in this way, Laurie empowers individuals to reclaim time, save resources, and enjoy a more personalized and joyful creation experience, all without sacrificing quality or the human touch.</p>
<p>A key part of Laurie’s philosophy is her insistence on reliability and consistency within AI tools, which ensures that technology remains a trustworthy foundation for ongoing innovation. The systems and solutions she crafts are designed to be both adaptable and dependable, supporting long-term growth for users and organizations alike. Laurie’s methods emphasize that impactful change happens at the intersection of robust technology and intuitive, human-centered design—a core value embedded in her work at Silica Intelligence.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.silicaintelligence.com/"><strong>Silica Intelligence</strong></a> is dedicated to making AI accessible, practical, and enriching for everyone—whether you’re an individual looking to amplify your creative process or a business seeking to optimize innovation through human-first solutions. Laurie invites you to be part of this mission by following her journey, engaging with Silica Intelligence’s updates and resources, and experiencing firsthand how a playful yet purposeful approach to AI can transform both productivity and personal fulfillment. For early access or inquiries, reach out to them <a href="hello@silicaintelligence.com"><strong>here</strong></a>, and stay tuned for the launch of the Silica Intelligence website coming soon.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Crafting Systematic Intelligence: Laurie Kenley on Conscious AI Partnership</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
      <itunes:image href="https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/6215cda8-011d-4ccd-9fe8-c389912a62af/d1702b3f-134b-4152-8a24-4275941430a8/3000x3000/45.jpg?aid=rss_feed"/>
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      <itunes:summary>With a distinguished career that spanned two decades in cybersecurity, marked by leadership roles in major financial institutions and most recently at Microsoft, Laurie Kenley&apos;s professional path at first seemed linear and predictable. Yet beneath the surface, Laurie recognized a profound internal shift—one familiar to many high achievers in demanding sectors. Her work, though once exhilarating and meaningful in combating financial crimes and orchestrating complex systems, began to feel burdensome rather than inspiring. Rather than pushing through the motions, Laurie resolved to reconnect with her core motivators: joy, passion, and self-discovery. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>With a distinguished career that spanned two decades in cybersecurity, marked by leadership roles in major financial institutions and most recently at Microsoft, Laurie Kenley&apos;s professional path at first seemed linear and predictable. Yet beneath the surface, Laurie recognized a profound internal shift—one familiar to many high achievers in demanding sectors. Her work, though once exhilarating and meaningful in combating financial crimes and orchestrating complex systems, began to feel burdensome rather than inspiring. Rather than pushing through the motions, Laurie resolved to reconnect with her core motivators: joy, passion, and self-discovery. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode>
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      <title>Storytelling Across Mediums: Aurora Winter on the Magic of Writing and Transforming Ideas into Impact</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/aurorawinter"><strong>Aurora Winter</strong></a>'s expertise spans from innovative content creation to leveraging personal experiences for impactful storytelling. Her approach offers aspiring authors and business leaders a fresh perspective on efficiently transforming ideas into powerful narratives. Whether you're looking to write your first book, enhance your business communication, or explore the power of storytelling, Aurora's methods can help you achieve your goals.</p>
<p>Same Page Publishing, founded by Aurora, provides a unique platform for authors to bring their ideas to life. The company's innovative <strong><em>spoken author method</em></strong> allows writers to quickly and effectively create high-quality manuscripts. This approach is particularly beneficial for busy professionals who want to share their knowledge and experiences but struggle to find time for traditional writing methods.</p>
<p>Ready to unlock your potential as an author or storyteller? Visit her <a href="https://samepagepublishing.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>to discover how Aurora's techniques can revolutionize your writing process. Explore different resources, guidance, and services to help you amplify your message and make a lasting impact through the power of books. Don't let your valuable insights and stories remain untold – start your author journey today.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/storytelling-across-mediums-aurora-winter-on-the-magic-of-writing-and-transforming-ideas-into-impact/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/aurorawinter"><strong>Aurora Winter</strong></a>'s expertise spans from innovative content creation to leveraging personal experiences for impactful storytelling. Her approach offers aspiring authors and business leaders a fresh perspective on efficiently transforming ideas into powerful narratives. Whether you're looking to write your first book, enhance your business communication, or explore the power of storytelling, Aurora's methods can help you achieve your goals.</p>
<p>Same Page Publishing, founded by Aurora, provides a unique platform for authors to bring their ideas to life. The company's innovative <strong><em>spoken author method</em></strong> allows writers to quickly and effectively create high-quality manuscripts. This approach is particularly beneficial for busy professionals who want to share their knowledge and experiences but struggle to find time for traditional writing methods.</p>
<p>Ready to unlock your potential as an author or storyteller? Visit her <a href="https://samepagepublishing.com/"><strong>website</strong> </a>to discover how Aurora's techniques can revolutionize your writing process. Explore different resources, guidance, and services to help you amplify your message and make a lasting impact through the power of books. Don't let your valuable insights and stories remain untold – start your author journey today.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Storytelling Across Mediums: Aurora Winter on the Magic of Writing and Transforming Ideas into Impact</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:25:47</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>At the core of Aurora Winter&apos;s success lies her passion for solving problems. As she puts it, entrepreneurs solve problems at a profit. This mindset has driven her to tackle various challenges throughout her career, always with an eye towards creating systems that can benefit others. Aurora&apos;s diverse career path, spanning from yacht sales to grief counseling, demonstrates the value of adaptability and a willingness to explore new horizons.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>At the core of Aurora Winter&apos;s success lies her passion for solving problems. As she puts it, entrepreneurs solve problems at a profit. This mindset has driven her to tackle various challenges throughout her career, always with an eye towards creating systems that can benefit others. Aurora&apos;s diverse career path, spanning from yacht sales to grief counseling, demonstrates the value of adaptability and a willingness to explore new horizons.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Augmenting Human Potential: Ariana Smetana&apos;s Mission to Revolutionize Business Intelligence</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://acceliqdigital.com"><strong>Ariana Smetana</strong></a>, Accel IQ Digital's Founder and CEO, reveals how AI can supercharge business growth. She shares her vision of AI augmenting human capabilities, not replacing them. Ariana's company is developing an AI-native software that tackles business challenges through smart data management and insight generation, promising to revolutionize how companies harness AI's potential.</p>
<p>From PwC to Shell Oil, Ariana's corporate background shaped her entrepreneurial journey. She candidly discusses the mindset shifts needed when transitioning from corporate life to startup culture. Her evolving definition of success offers a fresh perspective on achievement in the AI-driven business world.</p>
<p>Curious about leveraging AI for your company's growth? Explore Ariana's groundbreaking work <a href="http://acceliqdigital.com"><strong>here</strong></a>. For more AI insights and updates, connect with her on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianasmetana"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/ariana/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://acceliqdigital.com"><strong>Ariana Smetana</strong></a>, Accel IQ Digital's Founder and CEO, reveals how AI can supercharge business growth. She shares her vision of AI augmenting human capabilities, not replacing them. Ariana's company is developing an AI-native software that tackles business challenges through smart data management and insight generation, promising to revolutionize how companies harness AI's potential.</p>
<p>From PwC to Shell Oil, Ariana's corporate background shaped her entrepreneurial journey. She candidly discusses the mindset shifts needed when transitioning from corporate life to startup culture. Her evolving definition of success offers a fresh perspective on achievement in the AI-driven business world.</p>
<p>Curious about leveraging AI for your company's growth? Explore Ariana's groundbreaking work <a href="http://acceliqdigital.com"><strong>here</strong></a>. For more AI insights and updates, connect with her on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/arianasmetana"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Augmenting Human Potential: Ariana Smetana&apos;s Mission to Revolutionize Business Intelligence</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>Ariana Smetana has dedicated herself to learning and building AI technology to solve business problems and enable companies to grow exponentially. Her approach is refreshingly pragmatic, focusing on how AI can augment human work rather than replace it entirely. As AI continues to evolve and reshape the business landscape, leaders like Ariana will play a crucial role in guiding organizations toward a future where human potential is enhanced, not overshadowed, by artificial intelligence.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Ariana Smetana has dedicated herself to learning and building AI technology to solve business problems and enable companies to grow exponentially. Her approach is refreshingly pragmatic, focusing on how AI can augment human work rather than replace it entirely. As AI continues to evolve and reshape the business landscape, leaders like Ariana will play a crucial role in guiding organizations toward a future where human potential is enhanced, not overshadowed, by artificial intelligence.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Leadership in Crisis: Mark Oden on the Key to Success and a Graceful Exit</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/maoden/"><strong>Mark Oden</strong></a>'s journey from Cisco engineer to CEO of <a href="https://www.bimdesigns.net"><strong>BIM Designs</strong></a> showcases the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. His company's rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by market shifts and increased competition, led to a critical decision point. Mark's approach to this challenge offers valuable lessons in leadership, emphasizing the importance of reflection, seeking diverse perspectives, and maintaining strong relationships.</p>
<p>The process of winding down BIM Designs demonstrates how to handle difficult transitions with integrity. Mark's candid acknowledgment of fear, followed by a sense of clarity once the decision was made, resonates with many leaders facing tough choices. His commitment to transparent communication and supporting employees through the transition highlights the possibility of making hard decisions while upholding personal values and maintaining strong relationships.</p>
<p>For entrepreneurs and business leaders facing similar crossroads, Mark's story serves as a powerful reminder that fear often precedes clarity. His experience underscores the importance of creating space for deep reflection, seeking diverse input, and prioritizing relationships throughout the decision-making process. If you're navigating a challenging business transition, consider reaching out to Mark on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/maoden/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a> for insights and support. His willingness to share his experiences can provide valuable guidance as you chart your own path forward in the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/mark-oden/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/maoden/"><strong>Mark Oden</strong></a>'s journey from Cisco engineer to CEO of <a href="https://www.bimdesigns.net"><strong>BIM Designs</strong></a> showcases the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. His company's rapid growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by market shifts and increased competition, led to a critical decision point. Mark's approach to this challenge offers valuable lessons in leadership, emphasizing the importance of reflection, seeking diverse perspectives, and maintaining strong relationships.</p>
<p>The process of winding down BIM Designs demonstrates how to handle difficult transitions with integrity. Mark's candid acknowledgment of fear, followed by a sense of clarity once the decision was made, resonates with many leaders facing tough choices. His commitment to transparent communication and supporting employees through the transition highlights the possibility of making hard decisions while upholding personal values and maintaining strong relationships.</p>
<p>For entrepreneurs and business leaders facing similar crossroads, Mark's story serves as a powerful reminder that fear often precedes clarity. His experience underscores the importance of creating space for deep reflection, seeking diverse input, and prioritizing relationships throughout the decision-making process. If you're navigating a challenging business transition, consider reaching out to Mark on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/maoden/"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a> for insights and support. His willingness to share his experiences can provide valuable guidance as you chart your own path forward in the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Leadership in Crisis: Mark Oden on the Key to Success and a Graceful Exit</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>From tech industry professional to construction CEO, and now to a voice of experience for other leaders, Mark Oden exemplifies the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of entrepreneurial success. As the market shifted post-COVID, increased international competition and contractual limitations due to union agreements began to impact his business. Mark&apos;s experience underscores the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and maintaining a strong ethical compass, even in the face of significant business challenges.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>From tech industry professional to construction CEO, and now to a voice of experience for other leaders, Mark Oden exemplifies the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of entrepreneurial success. As the market shifted post-COVID, increased international competition and contractual limitations due to union agreements began to impact his business. Mark&apos;s experience underscores the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and maintaining a strong ethical compass, even in the face of significant business challenges.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Harnessing Startup Energy: Fred Schonenberg on Turning Big Ideas into Corporate Innovation Wins</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.venturefuel.net/#"><b>Fred Schonenberg</b></a><span>, founder of VentureFuel, shares his unique perspective on bridging the gap between large corporations, startups, and venture capital. He discusses VentureFuel's role in fostering innovation and navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Fred's approach involves identifying key challenges for large organizations and connecting them with cutting-edge startups to solve these problems efficiently.</span></p>
<p><span>Reflecting on his career journey, Fred shares how his experiences, from aspiring athlete to startup founder, shaped his approach to helping startups work with large corporations. He introduces the concept of <strong><em>creative adjacency</em></strong> in problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond obvious solutions and exploring ideas from seemingly unrelated industries. This approach has led to surprising and innovative solutions for clients across various sectors.</span></p>
<p><span>To learn more about Fred's work in innovation and how VentureFuel is shaping the future of corporate-startup partnerships, visit his </span><a href="https://www.venturefuel.net/#"><b>website </b></a><span>or connect with Fred on </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredschonenberg/"><b>LinkedIn</b></a><span>. Discover how creative problem-solving and strategic partnerships can drive growth and innovation in your organization.</span></p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <strong><a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 7 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/20-harnessing-startup-energy-fred-schonenberg-on-turning-big-ideas-into-corporate-innovation-wins/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.venturefuel.net/#"><b>Fred Schonenberg</b></a><span>, founder of VentureFuel, shares his unique perspective on bridging the gap between large corporations, startups, and venture capital. He discusses VentureFuel's role in fostering innovation and navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Fred's approach involves identifying key challenges for large organizations and connecting them with cutting-edge startups to solve these problems efficiently.</span></p>
<p><span>Reflecting on his career journey, Fred shares how his experiences, from aspiring athlete to startup founder, shaped his approach to helping startups work with large corporations. He introduces the concept of <strong><em>creative adjacency</em></strong> in problem-solving, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond obvious solutions and exploring ideas from seemingly unrelated industries. This approach has led to surprising and innovative solutions for clients across various sectors.</span></p>
<p><span>To learn more about Fred's work in innovation and how VentureFuel is shaping the future of corporate-startup partnerships, visit his </span><a href="https://www.venturefuel.net/#"><b>website </b></a><span>or connect with Fred on </span><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredschonenberg/"><b>LinkedIn</b></a><span>. Discover how creative problem-solving and strategic partnerships can drive growth and innovation in your organization.</span></p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <strong><a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></strong>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Harnessing Startup Energy: Fred Schonenberg on Turning Big Ideas into Corporate Innovation Wins</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>Fred Schonenberg&apos;s journey from aspiring athlete to innovation catalyst underscores the value of embracing unexpected opportunities and continuously adapting to new challenges. His success with VentureFuel demonstrates the power of bridging different worlds – in this case, the established corporate sphere and the dynamic startup ecosystem. By fostering these connections and encouraging creative problem-solving, Fred and his team are shaping the future of business innovation.</itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>Fred Schonenberg&apos;s journey from aspiring athlete to innovation catalyst underscores the value of embracing unexpected opportunities and continuously adapting to new challenges. His success with VentureFuel demonstrates the power of bridging different worlds – in this case, the established corporate sphere and the dynamic startup ecosystem. By fostering these connections and encouraging creative problem-solving, Fred and his team are shaping the future of business innovation.</itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Dare to Build: Transforming Product Management with Passion and Purpose with Alex Blinov</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management.</p>
<p>Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference.</p>
<p>Check out Alex's work at Zendrop <a href="https://www.zendrop.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Alex on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/blinovalex/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/19-dare-to-build-transforming-product-management-with-passion-and-purpose-with-alex-blinov/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management.</p>
<p>Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference.</p>
<p>Check out Alex's work at Zendrop <a href="https://www.zendrop.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Alex on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/blinovalex/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Dare to Build: Transforming Product Management with Passion and Purpose with Alex Blinov</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management. Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference.Check out Alex&apos;s work at Zendrop HERE. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, host Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Alex Blinov, Chief Product Officer at Zendrop, about his 16-year journey in product management. Alex shares insights on leadership, the evolving role of product managers, and the importance of communication and discovery in building successful products. He discusses fostering team autonomy, the impact of AI, and his guiding mantra, “Dare to build.” The conversation highlights the value of empowering teams, celebrating achievements, and continuously learning to drive innovation and create products that make a meaningful difference.Check out Alex&apos;s work at Zendrop HERE. Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Crossing the Road to Better Business Credit: An Entrepreneur’s Journey with Nav Technologies&apos; Levi King</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses.</p>
<p>He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement.</p>
<p>Check out Levi's work <a href="https://www.nav.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Levi on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/leviking/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/18-crossing-the-road-to-better-business-credit-an-entrepreneurs-journey-with-nav-technologies-levi-king/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses.</p>
<p>He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement.</p>
<p>Check out Levi's work <a href="https://www.nav.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Levi on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/leviking/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Crossing the Road to Better Business Credit: An Entrepreneur’s Journey with Nav Technologies&apos; Levi King</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses. He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement.Check out Levi&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Levi on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and Chairman at Nav Technologies, Levi King. Levi shares his journey from small business owner to fintech entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of business credit and financial management for small businesses. He discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face, Nav Technologies’ mission to simplify business financing, and the company’s focus on trade credit and supplier relationships. Levi also reflects on company culture, the role of luck in success, and his evolving definition of achievement.Check out Levi&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Levi on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Hacking the System: Making Cybersecurity Work for Small Businesses with DarkHorse Security&apos;s Grant McCracken</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses.</p>
<p>He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions.</p>
<p>Check out Grant's work <a href="https://darkhorse.sh/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Grant on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantmccracken/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 9 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/17-hacking-the-system-making-cybersecurity-work-for-small-businesses-with-darkhorse-securitys-grant-mccracken/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses.</p>
<p>He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions.</p>
<p>Check out Grant's work <a href="https://darkhorse.sh/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Grant on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantmccracken/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Hacking the System: Making Cybersecurity Work for Small Businesses with DarkHorse Security&apos;s Grant McCracken</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:22:45</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses. He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions.Check out Grant&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Grant on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at DarkHorse Security, Grant McCracken. Grant shares his journey from cybersecurity expert to entrepreneur, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of simplifying security for smaller businesses. He explains how DarkHorse leverages crowdsourced expertise and explores future trends like AI-driven penetration testing. Grant also offers practical advice for founders on how to avoid burnout and challenge assumptions.Check out Grant&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Grant on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>From Overwhelmed to Empowered: The Entrepreneur&apos;s Journey to Freedom with Ral West Livin’ The Dream&apos;s Ral West</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner.</p>
<p>She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her &quot;Ral West Livin’ The Dream&quot; Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.</p>
<p>Check out Ral's work <a href="https://www.ralwest.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Ral on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralwest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 2 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/16-from-overwhelmed-to-empowered-the-entrepreneurs-journey-to-freedom-with-ral-west-livin-the-dreams-ral-west/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner.</p>
<p>She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her &quot;Ral West Livin’ The Dream&quot; Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.</p>
<p>Check out Ral's work <a href="https://www.ralwest.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Ral on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralwest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>From Overwhelmed to Empowered: The Entrepreneur&apos;s Journey to Freedom with Ral West Livin’ The Dream&apos;s Ral West</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:21:19</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner. She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her &quot;Ral West Livin’ The Dream&quot; Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.Check out Ral&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Ral on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner at Ral West Livin’ The Dream, Ral West. Ral shares her journey from hands-on business owner to successful mentor. Drawing on four decades of experience, Ral discusses building and selling businesses—including a major sale to Alaska Airlines—and the mindset shifts needed to transition from operator to owner. She emphasizes freedom as the ultimate measure of success and now guides entrepreneurs through her &quot;Ral West Livin’ The Dream&quot; Mastermind, helping them create scalable businesses and fulfilling lives.Check out Ral&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Ral on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Emotional Journey of Founders: Success, Failure, and the Impact of AI with Mozilla&apos;s Raj Singh</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success.</p>
<p>He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.</p>
<p>Check out Raj's work <a href="https://soloist.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Raj on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajansingh/details/experience/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/15-the-emotional-journey-of-founders-success-failure-and-the-impact-of-ai-with-mozillas-raj-singh/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success.</p>
<p>He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.</p>
<p>Check out Raj's work <a href="https://soloist.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Raj on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajansingh/details/experience/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Emotional Journey of Founders: Success, Failure, and the Impact of AI with Mozilla&apos;s Raj Singh</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success. He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.Check out Raj&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Raj on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the VP of Product at Mozilla, Raj Singh. Raj shares insights on navigating startup and corporate cultures, the impact of generative AI on productivity, and the evolving definition of success. He discusses the emotional challenges founders face post-acquisition, leadership communication in fast-paced environments, and creative growth strategies—like his cooking app’s global holiday recipe campaign. Raj also reflects on balancing professional ambition with family life, offering valuable advice for founders and tech professionals adapting to today’s rapidly changing landscape.Check out Raj&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Raj on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>How to Turn Your Dreams into Reality: Insights from a Culinary Trip Leader with Phineas Wright House&apos;s Wendy Harrop</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers.</p>
<p>She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.</p>
<p>Check out Wendy's work <a href="https://www.phineaswrighthouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Wendy on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-harrop-a17412/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/14-how-to-turn-your-dreams-into-reality-insights-from-a-culinary-trip-leader-with-phineas-wright-houses-wendy-harrop/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers.</p>
<p>She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.</p>
<p>Check out Wendy's work <a href="https://www.phineaswrighthouse.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Wendy on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-harrop-a17412/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>How to Turn Your Dreams into Reality: Insights from a Culinary Trip Leader with Phineas Wright House&apos;s Wendy Harrop</itunes:title>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers. She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.Check out Wendy&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Owner of the Phineas Wright House, Wendy Harrop. Wendy shares her journey from wedding planner to creating curated experiences on her New England flower farm, including workshops, retreats, and culinary trips for solo female travelers. She discusses her meticulous “Wedding Wendy precision,” the evolution of her definition of success, and the importance of crafting memorable, welcoming events. Wendy also reveals her plans to restore a historic barn to expand her offerings and encourages listeners to embrace new experiences with a positive mindset.Check out Wendy&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Transforming Wealth: How to Plan Your Exit Strategy for Maximum Impact with Capital Gains Tax Solutions&apos; Brett Swarts</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom.</p>
<p>He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.</p>
<p>Check out Brett's work <a href="https://capitalgainstaxsolutions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Brett on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-swarts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/13-transforming-wealth-how-to-plan-your-exit-strategy-for-maximum-impact-with-capital-gains-tax-solutions-brett-swarts/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom.</p>
<p>He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.</p>
<p>Check out Brett's work <a href="https://capitalgainstaxsolutions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Brett on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-swarts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Transforming Wealth: How to Plan Your Exit Strategy for Maximum Impact with Capital Gains Tax Solutions&apos; Brett Swarts</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom. He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.Check out Brett&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Brett on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder at Capital Gains Tax Solutions, Brett Swarts. Brett shares his expertise in capital gains tax exit planning, focusing on strategies like deferred sales trusts to help clients achieve truly passive income and financial freedom. He discusses his faith-driven approach to stewardship, the importance of purposeful living, and the upcoming generational wealth transfer. Brett also offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and invites listeners to learn more through his book and website, emphasizing collaboration and personalized solutions for complex financial needs.Check out Brett&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Brett on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Building a Culture of Support: Nurturing Team Members for Greater Impact with Executive Help Now&apos;s Renee Hastings</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring.</p>
<p>She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production.</p>
<p>Check out Renee's work <a href="https://executivehelpnow.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Renee on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 5 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/12-building-a-culture-of-support-nurturing-team-members-for-greater-impact-with-executive-help-nows-renee-hastings/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring.</p>
<p>She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production.</p>
<p>Check out Renee's work <a href="https://executivehelpnow.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Renee on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Building a Culture of Support: Nurturing Team Members for Greater Impact with Executive Help Now&apos;s Renee Hastings</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:40</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring. She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production. Check out Renee&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Renee on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and CEO at Executive Help Now, Renee Hastings. Renee shares her journey from corporate executive assistant to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of meaningful work, strong company culture, and value-driven hiring. She explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of delegation, and the necessity of open communication in virtual assistant partnerships. Renee recounts client success stories, discusses supporting her team’s growth, and introduces new services like podcast production. Check out Renee&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Renee on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Marketing Magic: Turning Relationships into Revenue with Intentionally Inspirational&apos;s Jason Wright</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team.</p>
<p>He discusses lessons from his book, &quot;The Backwards Route to Forward Progress,&quot; and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success.</p>
<p>Check out Jason's work <a href="https://intentionallyinspirational.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jason on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasonwright/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 29 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/11-marketing-magic-turning-relationships-into-revenue-with-intentionally-inspirationals-jason-wright/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team.</p>
<p>He discusses lessons from his book, &quot;The Backwards Route to Forward Progress,&quot; and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success.</p>
<p>Check out Jason's work <a href="https://intentionallyinspirational.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jason on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasonwright/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Marketing Magic: Turning Relationships into Revenue with Intentionally Inspirational&apos;s Jason Wright</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:17:41</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team. He discusses lessons from his book, &quot;The Backwards Route to Forward Progress,&quot; and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success. Check out Jason&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder and CEO of Intentionally Inspirational, Jason Wright. Jason shares his philosophy of simplifying marketing by focusing on relationships, the importance of taking action over perfection, and fostering innovation within his team. He discusses lessons from his book, &quot;The Backwards Route to Forward Progress,&quot; and reflects on mindset, resilience, and redefining success. Check out Jason&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>The Three-Tier Franchise Model: A Game Changer for Aspiring Entrepreneurs with Anago Cleaning Systems&apos; Adam Povlitz</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology.</p>
<p>He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs.</p>
<p>Check out Adam's work <a href="https://anagocleaning.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Adam on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/apovlitz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 22 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/10-the-three-tier-franchise-model-a-game-changer-for-aspiring-entrepreneurs-with-anago-cleaning-systems-adam-povlitz/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology.</p>
<p>He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs.</p>
<p>Check out Adam's work <a href="https://anagocleaning.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Adam on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/apovlitz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>The Three-Tier Franchise Model: A Game Changer for Aspiring Entrepreneurs with Anago Cleaning Systems&apos; Adam Povlitz</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:22:59</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology. He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs. Check out Adam&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Adam on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, Adam Povlitz. Adam shares his journey from the family business to leading innovation in the industry, emphasizing Anago’s unique three-tier franchise model and commitment to technology. He discusses building a culture of innovation, the importance of clear communication, and lessons learned about leadership and hiring. He also covers industry misconceptions, the value of empathy, and practical advice for aspiring CEOs. Check out Adam&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Adam on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Small Wins, Big Impact: A Journey to Empower Children with Disabilities Through Design with Wish Wear Accessories&apos; Ashley Hamic</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom.</p>
<p>She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.</p>
<p>Check out Ashley's work <a href="https://www.wishwearaccessories.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Ashley on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/wishwearaccessories/?viewAsMember=true" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/9-small-wins-big-impact-a-journey-to-empower-children-with-disabilities-through-design-with-wish-wear-accessories-ashley-hamic/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom.</p>
<p>She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.</p>
<p>Check out Ashley's work <a href="https://www.wishwearaccessories.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Ashley on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/wishwearaccessories/?viewAsMember=true" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Small Wins, Big Impact: A Journey to Empower Children with Disabilities Through Design with Wish Wear Accessories&apos; Ashley Hamic</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom. She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.Check out Ashley&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Wish Wear Accessories, Ashley Hamic. Ashley shares her journey from a high-tech career to creating accessible, fun clothing and accessories for children with disabilities, inspired by her experiences as a rare disease mom. She highlights the importance of innovation, community support, and celebrating small wins. Ashley discusses her design process, the value of real-world feedback, and the power of connection among families facing similar challenges, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.Check out Ashley&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Celebrating Small Wins: The Importance of Recognition in a High-Performance Culture with Fiscal Advocate&apos;s Jon Morris</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management.</p>
<p>He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care.</p>
<p>Check out Jon's work <a href="https://www.fiscaladvocate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jon on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmorrisramsayinnovations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 8 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/8-celebrating-small-wins-the-importance-of-recognition-in-a-high-performance-culture-with-fiscal-advocates-jon-morris/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management.</p>
<p>He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care.</p>
<p>Check out Jon's work <a href="https://www.fiscaladvocate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jon on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmorrisramsayinnovations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Celebrating Small Wins: The Importance of Recognition in a High-Performance Culture with Fiscal Advocate&apos;s Jon Morris</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management. He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care. Check out Jon&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Fiscal Advocate, Jon Morris. Jon shares his journey from building and selling a major marketing agency to helping entrepreneurs with financial management. He discusses finding joy in everyday business tasks, building a positive company culture, and fostering innovation. Jon offers practical advice on financial metrics for service businesses and emphasizes the importance of customer care. Check out Jon&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>From Pinball to Productivity: Revolutionizing Communication in Business with Costa Rica&apos;s Call Center&apos;s Richard Blank</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification.</p>
<p>He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica.</p>
<p>Check out Richard's work <a href="https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/costa-ricas-call-center-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Richard on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 1 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/7-from-pinball-to-productivity-revolutionizing-communication-in-business-with-costa-ricas-call-centers-richard-blank/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification.</p>
<p>He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica.</p>
<p>Check out Richard's work <a href="https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/costa-ricas-call-center-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Richard on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>From Pinball to Productivity: Revolutionizing Communication in Business with Costa Rica&apos;s Call Center&apos;s Richard Blank</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica&apos;s Call Center, Richard Blank.  Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification. He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica. Check out Richard&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Richard on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the President and Bilingual Telemarketing Trainer of Costa Rica&apos;s Call Center, Richard Blank.  Richard shares his innovative approach to telemarketing, emphasizing authentic communication, phonetic microexpressions, and the power of workplace gamification. He discusses building a positive company culture through play, his passion for vintage pinball machines, and the importance of personal connections. Richard also offers practical advice on self-reflection, leadership, and patience in communication, drawing from his experiences in Costa Rica. Check out Richard&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Richard on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Navigating the Chaos: Mastering Strategic Backlog for Business Success with Chris Botting</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy.</p>
<p>Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.</p>
<p>Check out Chris's work <a href="https://www.infovista.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Chris on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-botting/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/6-navigating-the-chaos-mastering-strategic-backlog-for-business-success-with-chris-botting/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy.</p>
<p>Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.</p>
<p>Check out Chris's work <a href="https://www.infovista.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Chris on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-botting/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Navigating the Chaos: Mastering Strategic Backlog for Business Success with Chris Botting</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:19:14</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy. Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.Check out Chris&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews Chris Botting. Chris discusses his extensive experience in technology leadership, product management, and business strategy. Chris shares insights on understanding customer needs, the value of a “strategic backlog,” and balancing long-term vision with short-term execution. They explore the importance of transparency with customers, managing emotions in decision-making, and using financial analysis for business priorities. Chris also offers practical advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability as keys to success in today’s fast-changing business environment.Check out Chris&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Bridging Generations: Using Media to Connect Elders and Their Families with Meema Stories&apos; Stephen Quatrano</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology.</p>
<p>Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.</p>
<p>Check out Stephen's work <a href="https://prod.meemastories.com/drupal8/meema-splash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Stephen on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/quatrano/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/5-bridging-generations-using-media-to-connect-elders-and-their-families-with-meema-stories-stephen-quatrano/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology.</p>
<p>Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.</p>
<p>Check out Stephen's work <a href="https://prod.meemastories.com/drupal8/meema-splash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Stephen on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/quatrano/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Bridging Generations: Using Media to Connect Elders and Their Families with Meema Stories&apos; Stephen Quatrano</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:22:51</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology. Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.Check out Stephen&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Meema Stories, Stephen Quatrano. Stephen discusses his mission to combat social isolation among elders through storytelling and technology. Stephen shares insights from his experience as a CTO and multi-founder, discussing how meaningful media can spark conversations and connections between elders and caregivers. Stephen highlights the challenges of aging, the importance of community, and invites listeners—especially writers, media professionals, and caregivers—to join Meema Stories’ mission to enrich elder care through shared stories and deeper human connection.Check out Stephen&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>How AI and Data Analytics are Revolutionizing Player Performance and Fan Experience with SumerSports Jono Luk</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CPO of SumerSports, Jono Luk. Jono explores his career in technology, his work applying data analytics and AI to sports, and his insights on fostering innovation and resilient organizational culture.</p>
<p>Jono discusses the importance of embracing failure, lifelong learning, and using technology to enhance human connection and address issues like mental health. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI and data, and the value of passion, agility, and collaboration in driving meaningful change across industries.</p>
<p>Check out Jono's work <a href="https://sumersports.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jono on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonoluk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/4-how-ai-and-data-analytics-are-revolutionizing-player-performance-and-fan-experience-with-sumersports-jono-luk/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CPO of SumerSports, Jono Luk. Jono explores his career in technology, his work applying data analytics and AI to sports, and his insights on fostering innovation and resilient organizational culture.</p>
<p>Jono discusses the importance of embracing failure, lifelong learning, and using technology to enhance human connection and address issues like mental health. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI and data, and the value of passion, agility, and collaboration in driving meaningful change across industries.</p>
<p>Check out Jono's work <a href="https://sumersports.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Jono on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonoluk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>How AI and Data Analytics are Revolutionizing Player Performance and Fan Experience with SumerSports Jono Luk</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CPO of SumerSports, Jono Luk. Jono explores his career in technology, his work applying data analytics and AI to sports, and his insights on fostering innovation and resilient organizational culture. Jono discusses the importance of embracing failure, lifelong learning, and using technology to enhance human connection and address issues like mental health. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI and data, and the value of passion, agility, and collaboration in driving meaningful change across industries.Check out Jono&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jono on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CPO of SumerSports, Jono Luk. Jono explores his career in technology, his work applying data analytics and AI to sports, and his insights on fostering innovation and resilient organizational culture. Jono discusses the importance of embracing failure, lifelong learning, and using technology to enhance human connection and address issues like mental health. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of AI and data, and the value of passion, agility, and collaboration in driving meaningful change across industries.Check out Jono&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Jono on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode>
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      <title>Embracing Diversity: Why Different Perspectives Matter in Leadership with Executive Connect&apos;s Melissa Aarskaug</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Executive Connect, Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa shares her career journey, emphasizing her transition from a shy individual to a confident leader.</p>
<p>She discusses the importance of authentic relationships, diversity of thought, and balancing professional and personal life. Melissa highlights her leadership style, which focuses on open communication and genuine connections. She also shares her approach to integrating joy into work and protecting personal well-being.</p>
<p>Check out Melissa's work <a href="https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Melissa on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 3 Jun 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/3-embracing-diversity-why-different-perspectives-matter-in-leadership-with-executive-connects-melissa-aarskaug/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Executive Connect, Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa shares her career journey, emphasizing her transition from a shy individual to a confident leader.</p>
<p>She discusses the importance of authentic relationships, diversity of thought, and balancing professional and personal life. Melissa highlights her leadership style, which focuses on open communication and genuine connections. She also shares her approach to integrating joy into work and protecting personal well-being.</p>
<p>Check out Melissa's work <a href="https://www.executiveconnectpodcast.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Melissa on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-aarskaug/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Embracing Diversity: Why Different Perspectives Matter in Leadership with Executive Connect&apos;s Melissa Aarskaug</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:23:21</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Executive Connect, Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa shares her career journey, emphasizing her transition from a shy individual to a confident leader. She discusses the importance of authentic relationships, diversity of thought, and balancing professional and personal life. Melissa highlights her leadership style, which focuses on open communication and genuine connections. She also shares her approach to integrating joy into work and protecting personal well-being. Check out Melissa&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the Founder of Executive Connect, Melissa Aarskaug. Melissa shares her career journey, emphasizing her transition from a shy individual to a confident leader. She discusses the importance of authentic relationships, diversity of thought, and balancing professional and personal life. Melissa highlights her leadership style, which focuses on open communication and genuine connections. She also shares her approach to integrating joy into work and protecting personal well-being. Check out Melissa&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Truth Works: Unlocking a Healthier, Happier Company Culture with Amplifier&apos;s Macon Stokes</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Amplifier, Macon Stokes. Macon discusses his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of a positive company culture, truth-telling, and personal development.</p>
<p>He shares insights on creating a cohesive work environment and the significance of honesty in business operations. Additionally, Macon reveals his unique Friday ritual of skateboarding while sharing insights on LinkedIn, which has become a cultural element within his organization.</p>
<p>Check out Macon's work <a href="https://amplifier.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Macon on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/macon-stokes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2025 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/2-truth-works-unlocking-a-healthier-happier-company-culture-with-amplifiers-macon-stokes/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Amplifier, Macon Stokes. Macon discusses his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of a positive company culture, truth-telling, and personal development.</p>
<p>He shares insights on creating a cohesive work environment and the significance of honesty in business operations. Additionally, Macon reveals his unique Friday ritual of skateboarding while sharing insights on LinkedIn, which has become a cultural element within his organization.</p>
<p>Check out Macon's work <a href="https://amplifier.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Connect with Macon on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/macon-stokes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Truth Works: Unlocking a Healthier, Happier Company Culture with Amplifier&apos;s Macon Stokes</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:21:39</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Amplifier, Macon Stokes. Macon discusses his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of a positive company culture, truth-telling, and personal development. He shares insights on creating a cohesive work environment and the significance of honesty in business operations. Additionally, Macon reveals his unique Friday ritual of skateboarding while sharing insights on LinkedIn, which has become a cultural element within his organization. Check out Macon&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Macon on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Elizabeth Bieniek interviews the CEO of Amplifier, Macon Stokes. Macon discusses his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of a positive company culture, truth-telling, and personal development. He shares insights on creating a cohesive work environment and the significance of honesty in business operations. Additionally, Macon reveals his unique Friday ritual of skateboarding while sharing insights on LinkedIn, which has become a cultural element within his organization. Check out Macon&apos;s work HERE. Connect with Macon on LinkedIn.Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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      <title>Play, Grit, and Innovation: A Recipe for Workplace Happiness with Elizabeth Bieniek</title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>In the inaugural episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence interviews the creator and host of the show, Elizabeth Bieniek.</p>
<p>Elizabeth shares that the podcast celebrates innovators who balance growth, grit, and play in their professional lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating play into the workplace to foster creativity and innovation.</p>
<p>Elizabeth and Josh also discuss empathetic leadership, creating inclusive work environments, and her own professional journey in technology and innovation. The episode encourages listeners to nominate inspiring guests who bring joy and creativity to their workplaces, setting the stage for future conversations on leadership and play.</p>
<p>Check out Elizabeth's work <a href="https://www.elizabethbieniek.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 May 2025 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>letsdothis@elizabethbieniek.com (Elizabeth Bieniek)</author>
      <link>https://bleav.com/shows/cake-on-tuesday-the-leadership-blueprint/episodes/1-play-grit-and-innovation-a-recipe-for-workplace-happiness-with-elizabeth-bieniek/</link>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the inaugural episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence interviews the creator and host of the show, Elizabeth Bieniek.</p>
<p>Elizabeth shares that the podcast celebrates innovators who balance growth, grit, and play in their professional lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating play into the workplace to foster creativity and innovation.</p>
<p>Elizabeth and Josh also discuss empathetic leadership, creating inclusive work environments, and her own professional journey in technology and innovation. The episode encourages listeners to nominate inspiring guests who bring joy and creativity to their workplaces, setting the stage for future conversations on leadership and play.</p>
<p>Check out Elizabeth's work <a href="https://www.elizabethbieniek.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply <a href="https://podcast.cakeontuesday.com/podcast-guest" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a>.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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      <itunes:title>Play, Grit, and Innovation: A Recipe for Workplace Happiness with Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:title>
      <itunes:author>Elizabeth Bieniek</itunes:author>
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      <itunes:duration>00:13:13</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>In the inaugural episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence interviews the creator and host of the show, Elizabeth Bieniek. Elizabeth shares that the podcast celebrates innovators who balance growth, grit, and play in their professional lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating play into the workplace to foster creativity and innovation. Elizabeth and Josh also discuss empathetic leadership, creating inclusive work environments, and her own professional journey in technology and innovation. The episode encourages listeners to nominate inspiring guests who bring joy and creativity to their workplaces, setting the stage for future conversations on leadership and play.Check out Elizabeth&apos;s work HERE. Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:subtitle>In the inaugural episode of Cake on Tuesday: The Leadership Blueprint, Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence interviews the creator and host of the show, Elizabeth Bieniek. Elizabeth shares that the podcast celebrates innovators who balance growth, grit, and play in their professional lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating play into the workplace to foster creativity and innovation. Elizabeth and Josh also discuss empathetic leadership, creating inclusive work environments, and her own professional journey in technology and innovation. The episode encourages listeners to nominate inspiring guests who bring joy and creativity to their workplaces, setting the stage for future conversations on leadership and play.Check out Elizabeth&apos;s work HERE. Think you&apos;d be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE. </itunes:subtitle>
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