John W. Sigmon is an esteemed executive coach, speaker, and organizational transformation expert, boasting a vast range of expertise that spans across all sectors of the economy.

• How has your experience as a 2-time C-Suite executive shaped your understanding of leadership?
• How do you see parallels between natural ecosystems, observation and getting leaders unstuck?
• What are your book, Wild Leadership, key message?
• Many leaders struggle with resilience and adaptability in volatile environments. What can leaders learn from ecosystems about navigating uncertainty?
• Your book explores leadership through the lens of nature. How can executives adopt a more “wild” approach to leadership while maintaining the strategic rigor needed to drive measurable business outcomes?

John W. Sigmon is an esteemed executive coach, speaker, and organizational transformation expert, boasting a vast range of expertise that spans across all sectors of the economy. With a remarkable career as a people leader and two-time C-Suite executive (CFO and CHRO), he brings unparalleled insights to create impactful experiences for individuals and organizations through coaching, organizational transformation, and personalized consulting.

John's client base is diverse, encompassing not-for-profit, global for-profit, healthcare, governmental, and nongovernmental organizations. He guides his clients towards their desired goals, employing methods of inquiry, awareness, reflection, and action. Certified as a Master Certified Coach through the International Coach Federation (ICF) and a Master Corporate Executive Coach, John received his coach training from the prestigious Coaches Training Institute. He also holds the distinction of being a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach and a Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder-Centered Coach.

John focuses on working with leaders who aspire to transcend traditional leadership approaches. He empowers them to embrace fearlessness, present their authentic selves, cultivate a devoted following, and wholeheartedly engage in all aspects of their lives.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Darius Ross is a pro arbitrager, business consultant, and motivational speaker with 30+ years of entrepreneurial experience behind him.

• How did your experiences growing up in inner-city Chicago shape your entrepreneurial journey?
• How can the right mentality help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and seize opportunities?
• What key traits define true leadership?
• What strategies have helped you crack high-stakes deals while fostering a strong business culture?
• What advice would you give your younger self?

Darius Ross is a pro arbitrager, business consultant, and motivational speaker with 30+ years of entrepreneurial experience behind him. Darius recently co-authored Leadership DNA, a USA National Bestseller that brings together expert insights on mastering the art of leadership. The anthology explores how to cultivate a thriving business culture, drive meaningful change, and build high-performing teams.

Additionally, he is working on the upcoming book Dealing with the Entrepreneurial Mindset, which taps into his journey as a self-starter and includes strategies for leadership. His expertise covers the scope of SMEs and large businesses, and he has cracked deals in the range of $250K to $1B+. In his role as a business consultant, Darius has advised top-ranking corporate leaders on deals worth $100B+.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Mike Manazir has a passion for stories, leadership, and lifting up people. Mike is a graduate of Top Gun and commanded a US Navy F-14 squadron, the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier and a Carrier Strike Group.

• What motivated to write your book, "Learn How To Lead To Win"?
• Is there a similitude difference between leading as a naval officer and as a civilian executive? Value and bigger than yourself. Give guidance.
• What are the basic themes of your book?
• What is your top tip about effective leadership?
• What are your three top tenets for an effective leader?

Mike Manazir has a passion for stories, leadership, and lifting up people. Mike is a graduate of Top Gun and commanded a US Navy F-14 squadron, the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier and a Carrier Strike Group. He retired as a Two-Star Navy Admiral after 36 years of service, spent seven years as an executive with a Fortune 100 aerospace and defense company, and is now a Vice President for Hadrian Automation, a startup specializing in high-end automated manufacturing. Mike mentors a leadership style based on heart and trust that champions inclusion. Mike believes that if you have one or more people looking to you to show the way, you are a leader. He wants to help you be the best leader you can be so you can lead to Win by leading from the Heart.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Nada Lena Nasserdeen is an internationally acclaimed thought leader, visionary, and advocate for personal and professional empowerment. As the Founder and CEO of Rise Up For You, she is a two-time #1 best-selling author and a two-time TEDx motivational speaker.

• What inspired you to focus on soft skills as the foundation for leadership and why do you believe they are the new success skills? Why now?
• What are the most common challenges you see leaders face today to foster growth within their teams?
• What are the key takeaways from these experiences that can benefit leaders and teams?
• How do you coach someone that does not want to be coach?
• Your methodology, like the RISE Power Up Method, emphasizes emotional intelligence and self-confidence. Can you explain how these pillars transform individuals and organizations?

Nada Lena Nasserdeen is an internationally acclaimed thought leader, visionary, and advocate for personal and professional empowerment. As the Founder and CEO of Rise Up For You, she is a two-time #1 best-selling author and a two-time TEDx motivational speaker.

Through her company, Rise Up For You, Nada has partnered with an impressive array of clients. Leveraging their proprietary soft skills framework, the Rise Power Up Method, they’ve extended their influence to more than 50 countries, redefining success through innovative programming and transformative development.

Nada’s deepest passion lies in giving back. She is especially proud of her philanthropic efforts with underprivileged youth, including teaching essential soft skills to young men and women in juvenile detention centers—a commitment that earned her the prestigious OC Sheriff’s Award.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Kerri Sutey is an experienced executive and leadership coach with over 20 years of expertise in transforming individuals, teams, and organizations.

• In your Forbes article, how do you define a coaching mindset?
• What are the most significant barriers leaders encounter when shifting from a traditional, directive style to a more collaborative approach?
• Could you share an example (or a story) of a leader you have worked with who embodied the coaching mindset?
• In the context of rapid technological change and a multigenerational workforce, what unique challenges—and opportunities— do leaders face when adopting a coaching mindset for the future?
• For organizations just beginning this journey, what practical steps or strategies can they implement to start fostering a culture of coaching and continuous learning?

Kerri Sutey is an experienced executive and leadership coach with over 20 years of expertise in transforming individuals, teams, and organizations. An ICAgile Certified Expert in Agile Coaching and Enterprise Coaching, as well as an International Coaching Federation Associate Certified Coach, Kerri seamlessly bridges Agile methodologies with professional coaching practices. Her coaching philosophy, centered on Lead. Grow. Thrive. empowers leaders to unlock their full potential, foster meaningful connections, and drive impactful change.

Known for her engaging facilitation style and ability to inspire curiosity, courage, and compassion, Kerri has worked with industry-leading organizations such as Google, IBM, and Southwest Airlines. Whether through coaching, consulting, or training, Kerri is passionate about helping professionals adapt, innovate, and thrive in today’s ever-changing landscape

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Jasmin Denis is a health and wellness coach at Jazzhealth. She coaches leaders in the workplace. It has been her driving force and passion for over 30 years.

• How do you create an effective workplace program?
• How do you recognize you are in burnout mode?
• What are some natural remedies to combat stress?
• AI friend or foe?
• Are regular wellness workshops effective in managing employee wellbeing?

As a Health and Wellness Leadership Coach, at Jazzdhealth and Wellness, Jasmin Dennis coaches, transforms, and implements health and wellness programs in the workplace. Health and wellness have been her driving force and passion for over 30 years.

Jasmin was directly involved in building from the ground up more than 20 fitness facilities and wellness centers, including three for the former Heavy Champion of the World, while simultaneously working as part of his boxing team. Jasmin has developed, taught, and implemented various health and wellness programs. Working alongside naturopathic doctors, physiotherapists, personal trainers, nutritionists, massage therapists, and chiropractors has given her a keen insight and understanding of when their skills and advice should be introduced.

Jasmin has recently added a Chartered Certified Herbalist to her skills. She is versed in developing programs to facilitate leadership skills, manage burnout, building mental resilience stress, and weight management.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Jonathan Tuteur is an Executive Coach, Facilitator, Speaker, Author, and Management Consultant with over 25 years of experience working across numerous industries. Jon’s executive coaching work focuses on helping individuals and groups optimize their performance, enhance their mindset, and achieve their potential.

• How have your life experiences informed how you work with your clients?
• What is your approach to making difficult decisions?
• How do you find your motivation and purpose and inspire others to find theirs?
• How do you practice empathy with clients whose views, backgrounds, experiences, etc. are vastly different than yours?

Jonathan Tuteur is an Executive Coach, Facilitator, Speaker, Author, and Management Consultant with over 25 years of experience working across numerous industries including Financial Services, Hospitality, U.S. Federal Government, State & Local Government, Nonprofit, Higher Education, Retail, Healthcare, Real Estate, Tech, and Consulting.

Jon’s executive coaching work focuses on helping individuals and groups optimize their performance, enhance their mindset, and achieve their potential. He has held senior leadership positions at multiple consulting firms including Accenture. Jon’s consulting work focuses on various organizational challenges such as employee learning & development, change management, growth & organizational strategy, and employee & organizational behavior. He facilitates training sessions and workshops for his clients on various topics including emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, leadership, and communication. His experience also includes extensive global travel across five continents supporting large scale change initiatives for various clients.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.

Jeffrey Sanow is a Former CIA Senior Intelligence Officer, a Global Security Expert, and a Strategic Leadership Speaker. He has a decorated career in critical global operations, and he served in the CIA’s National Clandestine Service.

• Can you share a brief overview of your background with our listeners?
• You say the ‘failure is not an option’ what do you mean?
• Talk about the art of decision-making under pressure. Is that a skill set you can cultivate?
• How did you experience abroad help you with your career?
• What do different people from different cultures have in common?
• With such an extensive experience abroad, how did people relate to you when you returned to the US?

Jeffrey Sanow is a Former CIA Senior Intelligence Officer, a Global Security Expert, and a Strategic Leadership Speaker. He has a decorated career in critical global operations, and he served in the CIA’s National Clandestine Service, working with senior policy makers in the Office of the Vice President and National Security Council to support policies related to preventing the sale, transfer, or acquisition of weapons of mass destruction. Today, he is a respected public speaker with a reputation for impactful storytelling, addressing complex issues across corporate and security industries and bringing a unique blend of intrigue and real-world application to audiences.

If you have enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast on iTunes. We would love for you to leave a review.

The EEC podcasts are sponsored by MKB Excellent Executive Coaching that helps you get from where you are to where you want to be with customized leadership and coaching development programs. MKB Excellent Executive Coaching offers leadership development programs to generate action, learning, and change that is aligned with your authentic self and values. Transform your dreams into reality and invest in yourself by scheduling a discovery session with Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC to reach your goals.

Your host is Dr. Katrina Burrus, MCC, founder and general manager of Excellent Executive Coaching a company that specializes in leadership development.