Career Competitor

Send us a text

About the Guest:

Glenn Leifheit is a technology leader at Microsoft, a podcast host, and a dedicated mentor. With over 20 years in the tech industry, Glenn has embraced personal and professional growth while helping others navigate their own journeys. He hosts From Stuck to Growth and co-hosts Mentorship Live on LinkedIn, a space dedicated to supporting job seekers.

About the Episode:

In this episode of GrowthReady, host Steve Mellor sits down with Glenn Leifheit to discuss the power of growth, mentorship, and navigating change. Glenn shares his unique insights on how mentorship is more than just guidance - it's a two-way street that fosters mutual learning. He also talks about his experience in the fast-paced world of Microsoft, the importance of prioritization, and how humor and introspection can transform the way we approach challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• It’s not always visible to others, but it’s essential for progress.
• The best mentorship relationships involve mutual learning, not just one-sided advice.
• True progress isn’t measured by how hard you work, but by the value and impact you create.
• Growth requires adaptability and the ability to pivot when priorities shift.
• Taking time for self-reflection helps us process emotions and make better decisions.
• Build connections by showing genuine interest in others.
• Every setback provides valuable lessons that help you move forward.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Glenn Leifheit on LinkedIn: @gleifhe
• Follow Glenn on Instagram: @gleifhe
• From Stuck to Growth Podcast: Hosted by Glenn. Available on all major platforms

🚀 If this episode inspired you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend who needs to hear it. 🎧

✅ Subscribe to GrowthReady for more inspiring conversations.

⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us reach more listeners.

📲 Follow us on social media for more insights and behind-the-scenes content!

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:
Frankie Russo is an entrepreneur, speaker, and author who specializes in business growth, innovation, and leadership. He has built and scaled multiple successful companies, including one that grew 60x in three years and was eventually acquired by a Fortune 500 company. 

Frankie is also deeply involved in helping individuals overcome addiction and personal stagnation. His book Breaking WHY: Hacking and Rebuilding Strategic Emotions for Authentic Success explores the intersection of purpose, passion, and business strategy. 

He is the host of The School of Weird podcast, where he dives into the power of embracing your uniqueness.

About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady, Frankie Russo breaks down what it truly means to be "growth ready", and it's not what most people think. He shares insights on how failure, rather than success, is the real foundation of growth and why stagnation is a greater threat than failure itself. 

Frankie discusses the "stagnation spiral," the importance of identifying problems honestly, and why embracing your "weird" is the key to unlocking limitless growth.

Throughout the conversation, Frankie and the host explore how businesses and individuals can break free from outdated models, reframe their approach to success, and consistently evolve. They also discuss the balance between personal and professional growth, and how self-honesty and emotional awareness play a crucial role in long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Growth comes from failure, not from success. The biggest mistake people make is fearing failure instead of learning from it.
• Stagnation isn’t just a business problem - it’s a human problem. It sneaks up when we get too comfortable with the way things have always been done.
• There are five key villains in the stagnation spiral: denial, status quo, silos/isolation, rigid beliefs, and disengagement. Recognizing these in yourself or your business is the first step to breaking free.
• Many businesses double down on old strategies when growth slows, leading to burnout and disengagement. True growth requires embracing change and being willing to break the old model.
• Awards and recognition feel good, but they don’t teach anything. Real lessons come from adversity and challenges.
• Your unique, "weird" qualities hold the key to your best work. Embracing your weird creates a culture of innovation and creativity.
• Growth starts with brutal honesty—about your business, your habits, and your mindset. The best way to spot denial is to ask yourself, "What have people been telling me that I’ve been ignoring?"
• Trying to change things outside of your control leads to frustration and burnout. Instead, focus on what you can change—often, that starts with yourself.
• Chasing success and growth as an end goal is flawed. Instead, commit to the process of continuous evolution and problem-solving.

📢 Resources:

• Frankie Russo’s Website: FrankieRusso.com
• Frankie’s Books:
  • Breaking WHY: Hacking and Rebuilding Strategic Emotions for Authentic Success
  • The Art of Why: Master Your Purpose, Success & Authenticity
• Follow Frankie on Social Media:
  • Instagram: @frankierusso

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

🎙️ About the Guest:

Larry Jackson is a medical device sales expert with a background in professional fighting, including boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and MMA. Coming from a tough upbringing, Larry has navigated personal and professional challenges with resilience, leading to a career in disruptive technology sales. His journey from fighting to sales is a testament to growth, adaptability, and the power of perseverance.

🔥 About the Episode:

In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Larry shares his journey from a challenging childhood to professional fighting and ultimately thriving in medical device sales. He discusses what it truly means to be "growth ready," touching on three key themes:

• Getting uncomfortable – Embracing honesty and facing challenges head-on.
• Letting go of people, places, and things – Understanding what no longer serves your growth.
• The ability to pivot – Recognizing when to change course and adapt.

Larry’s transparency about his struggles, victories, and the lessons he's learned along the way makes this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating their own path to personal and professional growth.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• Be honest about where you are and what needs to change.
• Surround yourself with people who celebrate you, not just tolerate you.
• Recognizing when it’s time for change is a critical part of evolving.
• Jackson emphasizes the importance of making a difference over simply making money.
• Facing your past and working through personal struggles leads to true transformation.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Larry Jackson on Social Media:
  • Linkedin: jaxson24
  • Instagram: plungetalkwithjax
• Connect with Steve Mellor on Social Media:
  • Linkedin: steve-mellor-cc
  • Instagram: CoachSteveMellor

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from their past, step into their true potential, and redefine success on their own terms. 🎧✨

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:
ED Dudley is a passionate advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence, with over 20 years of experience in financial services.

He co-founded Shining Light In Darkness, a nonprofit supporting underserved survivors, and has served as Interim Board Chair of United Against Slavery, advancing research to address anti-trafficking challenges globally.

As Board President of SwingPals, ED helps improve the lives of underprivileged children in Durham, NC. Guided by empathy and community, he merges financial expertise with social advocacy to empower and uplift those in need. "It's not what I do for a living, but what I do for the living," he says.

About the Episode:
Ed shares his transformative journey from chasing corporate success to finding true fulfillment through service. He unpacks the power of mindset, the importance of building a legacy, and how small acts of kindness can lead to meaningful impact. 

Through personal experiences and deep reflections, Ed challenges listeners to rethink success—not as a measure of what we accumulate, but of how we serve others.

This episode is packed with wisdom on personal growth, resilience, and the power of giving back.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Growth happens in inches, not leaps—focus on small, consistent progress.

✔ True success is measured in service, not just material wealth.

✔ Every person has the ability to create a lasting impact through their actions.

✔ Talking about difficult topics (like domestic violence) is essential for change.

✔ Serving others is a key to fulfillment and personal growth.

📢 Resources & Links:

1. Connect with Ed Dudley on LinkedIn: edwarddudley
2. Follow Shining Light in Darkness on Social Media: Instagram - shiningndarkness, Facebook- shininglightindarkness
3. Support Shining Light in Darkness: www.slidfnd.org

🚀 If this episode inspired you, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a friend who needs to hear it. 🎧

✅ Subscribe to GrowthReady for more inspiring conversations.

⭐ Leave a review—your feedback helps us reach more listeners.

📲 Follow us on social media for more insights and behind-the-scenes content!

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:

Hardy Smith is a seasoned consultant, speaker, and author specializing in nonprofit governance and board engagement. With a background in NASCAR, he brings a unique perspective on strategy, anticipation, and leadership. Hardy is the author of Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, a book dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations overcome common board challenges and foster effective leadership.

Discover more about Hardy on his website: www.hardysmith.com

About the Episode:

In this episode of The Growth Ready Podcast, Hardy Smith shares his journey from the fast-paced world of NASCAR to the nonprofit sector. He discusses the critical concept of being "growth ready," emphasizing preparation, anticipation, and adaptability. Hardy draws parallels between NASCAR’s demand for quick decision-making and the nonprofit world’s need for strategic foresight. He explores the challenges nonprofits face, particularly financial constraints and board engagement, and offers practical advice on fostering intentional growth. Additionally, Hardy delves into his book, Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, shedding light on how organizations can shift their mindset and create lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

• Being growth ready means preparing for and anticipating challenges.
• Anticipation is a skill that can be cultivated over time.
• Conditioned behaviors shape how we respond to adversity.
• Awareness of surroundings enhances decision-making and adaptability.
• Change and disruption are inevitable—pragmatism is key to navigating them.
• Asking for help is essential; people are often willing to assist.
• Taking a moment to pause can provide clarity in difficult situations.
• Board engagement is crucial for a nonprofit’s success.
• Intentionality is key in both personal and professional growth.
• Facilitation helps individuals and organizations recognize their own solutions.
• Ownership of actions leads to meaningful and lasting change.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:

Omar Halabieh is a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience spanning telecom, energy, and payments. He currently serves as Director of Technology at Amazon Payment Services, overseeing payment experiences across the Middle East and Africa. Beyond his professional role, Omar is passionate about leadership development, mentoring others, and fostering sustainable growth in their careers and lives.

Connect with Omar thru his website at www.omarhalabieh.com

About the Episode:

In this episode of GrowthReady Podcast, host Steve Mellor is joined by Omar Halabieh for a deep dive into what it means to be truly "growth ready." Omar shares his unique leadership philosophy centered around continuous learning, courageous conversations, and a long-term, sustainable approach to growth. He opens up about pivotal moments in his career where courage changed the trajectory of his path and offers practical advice for leaders looking to grow while supporting their teams.

Key Takeaways:

The Four Pillars of Being "Growth Ready":

• Embrace Growth as a Continuous Process: Recognize that you are always a work in progress.
• Avoid Stagnation: Consistent improvement is crucial to avoid complacency.
• Internal Drive Over External Signals: Self-accountability is essential—don’t wait for others to nudge you.
• Think Long-Term and Sustainable: Approach growth like a financial investment—lean on consistency and compounding.

The Power of Courageous Conversations:

• Courage is a spectrum—it starts with small steps, like asking for mentorship, and grows into high-stakes conversations.
• By taking ownership and seeking feedback proactively, leaders can unlock career-defining opportunities.

Creating an Environment for Growth:

• Surround yourself with mentors and role models who challenge and inspire you.
• Leverage available resources and focus on the opportunities within your control.
• Welcome adversity as part of the journey—it shapes resilience and adaptability.

Serving Others While Growing Yourself:

• Helping others succeed not only impacts them but also reinforces your own growth and clarifies your thinking.
• Building a support network enhances emotional resilience and prevents burnout.

Sustaining Growth:

• Prioritize physical and mental well-being. Health is key to long-term performance.
• Reflect with purpose—evaluate your progress to foster self-awareness without self-criticism.
• Align your work with your purpose to find energy and motivation, even during challenging times.

Redefining Success and the Right Path:

• Success is not a fixed path—it’s an emerging journey shaped by intentional actions.
• Focus on growth today, and the right path will become clearer over time.

This episode is a must-listen for leaders and professionals at any stage of their journey who want to grow sustainably, embrace courage, and build meaningful careers.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:
Scott Ramey is the secret weapon for forward-thinking executives ready to elevate their communication and leadership skills. With over 20 years of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies to billions in new business, Scott’s innovative SPEAK Framework transforms leaders by helping them communicate with clarity, inspire action, and drive results. Through his one-on-one coaching and keynote talks, Scott empowers leaders to unlock their full potential and foster lasting impact.

About the Episode:
In this episode of GrowthReady, Steve Mellor sits down with his friend and inspiring entrepreneur, Scott Ramey, to discuss the importance of stepping into your authentic self, navigating fear, and overcoming success reluctance. Scott shares his transformative journey from a corporate leader to an independent entrepreneur, detailing the challenges of unmasking his true identity and creating meaningful connections through vulnerability and communication. This conversation is packed with insights on leadership, personal growth, and the power of resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Challenging the status quo is essential for growth.
• Entrepreneurship can lead to personal fulfillment.
• Self-promotion is a necessary skill for success.
• Vulnerability strengthens connections with others.
• Gaining clarity on what you truly want is crucial.
• Communication skills are vital in professional settings.
• Being forward-thinking is key to career advancement.
• Embracing change can lead to a healthier mindset.
• Defining your personal style enhances communication.
• Every individual has a unique style that should be embraced.
• Success reluctance is a barrier to realizing our potential.
• We often self-sabotage just before achieving success.
• Authentic communication requires vulnerability and connection.
• Fear can be transformed into strength through authenticity.
• Recognizing our unlimited potential is essential for growth.
• Effective communication takes practice, structure, and time.
• Vulnerability creates deeper, more meaningful connections.
• We should focus on being ourselves rather than imitating others.
• The journey to authenticity may involve discomfort but is rewarding.
• Letting go of fear can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• Scott’s SPEAK method helps leaders communicate effectively by focusing on:
  • Style: Defining your unique communication approach.
  • Presence: Staying fully engaged in the moment.
  • Empathy: Understanding your audience’s needs.
  • Authenticity: Demonstrating vulnerability to build trust.
  • Knowledge: Structuring your message clearly and concisely using the "power of three."

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:
Jen Gomez is a trailblazer in empowering female entrepreneurs to break free from self-doubt and unleash their full potential. With nearly a decade of experience coaching women on how to elevate their personal and professional brands, work holistically, and scale their businesses, Jen has become a trusted mentor for those ready to dream bigger and make a lasting impact.

Jen's work is both strategic and deeply personal, reflecting her belief that the world is waiting for women to step into their power and lead with intention. With a Master's in Business from Louisiana State University, a forthcoming book titled Live by Design: Taking You from Leader to Legend, and a decade of experience coaching top-tier female entrepreneurs, Jen continues to inspire women to elevate their lives and businesses. Her style is transformational yet approachable—encouraging women to dream big, lead boldly, and design a life of purpose and fulfillment.

About the Episode:
In this episode of the Growth Ready podcast, Jennifer emphasizes that true growth requires deep reflection and understanding of the past to build a solid foundation for future success. She discusses her unique approach to helping clients overcome internal barriers and achieve their goals through the lens of joy and resilience.

Jennifer opens up about her personal journey of networking, overcoming challenges, and using joy as a transformative strategy. Together, she and Steve explore the concept of "joy anchors," a practical tool to overcome challenges and maintain momentum in life and business. They also dive into topics like authenticity, fear-based decision-making, and the importance of resilience and creativity in entrepreneurship.

Looking ahead, Jennifer shares her exciting future plans, including writing a book and hosting retreats, aimed at fostering joy and leadership development.

Key Takeaways:

• Growth requires reflecting on the past to build self-awareness.
• True growth stems from a deep connection with purpose.
• Many people seek quick fixes but overlook internal obstacles.
• Networking is a long-term strategy for success.
• Joy isn’t just a feeling—it can be a strategic advantage.
• Personal branding is essential for achieving business goals.
• Fear often stems from unfounded stories we tell ourselves.
• Resilience comes from recognizing past accomplishments.
• Creativity is vital to overcoming financial fears and achieving breakthroughs.
• Joy anchors provide stability and momentum during tough times.
• Authenticity is challenging but critical for meaningful impact.
• Success is about transformation, not just creating products.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will challenge your perspective on growth and teach you how to lead with joy and purpose.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor

Send us a text

About the Guest:

Ken Schmidt, former director of communications for Harley-Davidson, is a renowned business strategist and speaker who helped transform the brand into a global icon. Known for his bold and entertaining style, Ken specializes in competition, brand positioning, and customer loyalty. His book, Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, shares his unique insights on standing out and thriving in business. A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Ken blends his passions for riding and storytelling to inspire leaders worldwide.

Learn more about Ken through his website at www.kenspeaks.com

About the Episode:

In this episode of Growth Ready, Ken Schmidt, shares his invaluable insights on competitiveness and success. Drawing from his extensive experience, Ken emphasizes the significance of viewing the world through a competitive lens—not just in business, but in life.

He explores the critical role of reputation, human connection, and emotional engagement in driving business success. Ken introduces three essential questions that businesses and individuals must ask to refine their goals, enhance their strategies, and boost competitiveness.

The conversation delves into actionable advice on:

1. Delighting customers to build loyalty and repeat business.
2. Overcoming resistance to change by simplifying solutions.
3. Creating a unique brand language to stand out.
4. Balancing strategy with understanding human behavior to foster connections.

Ken also highlights the importance of passion, consistency, and genuine interest in others as cornerstones for personal and professional growth. With practical tips and thought-provoking perspectives, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone seeking to elevate their competitive edge.

Key Takeaways

• Competitiveness is a mindset crucial for growth in life and business.
• Reputation and human connection are essential for success.
• Delighting customers creates loyalty and drives demand.
• Businesses thrive on emotional connections, not just product quality.
• Simplify strategies for easier implementation and greater impact.
• A strong brand identity requires consistent messaging and a unique voice.
• Passion and authenticity are magnetic in attracting customers and building trust.
• Asking the right questions helps clarify goals and strategies.
• Genuine interest in others strengthens relationships and reputation.

Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community
Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor