Author: Paul Gichia

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The First Snap

Gregory Thomas:

The First Snap

Gregory Thomas stepped onto the field at the University of Arkansas with a dream of playing quarterback. What he didn’t expect was the backlash that came with breaking racial barriers in the 1980s. His story is one of adversity, teamwork, and redefining what’s possible.

Bio

Greg Thomas is a trailblazer in sports, celebrated for his historic achievements as the first Black starting quarterback at both San Angelo Central High School and the University of Arkansas. His leadership on the field was instrumental in the Razorbacks’ success during his tenure, leaving an indelible mark on the program.

 

Transitioning from his illustrious football career, Greg has dedicated the past 25 years to shaping the lives of young athletes as an assistant boys’ basketball coach at Plano East High School. His commitment to mentoring and developing future leaders in sports has solidified his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the athletic community.

 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Greg is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who values the importance of family and takes pride in sharing his rich legacy with the next generation.

Topics

  • The mental toll of breaking barriers in sports
  • Overcoming racial adversity in athletics
  • The role of teammates in resilience and success
  • Lessons from being a trailblazer in college sports
  • Handling hate, criticism, and pressure as an athlete
  • The evolution of diversity in college football
  • What leadership really looks like under adversity
  • Navigating fame, scrutiny, and public perception as a young athlete
  • How college football shaped his outlook on life and career
  • Writing his story: The process of turning lived experience into a book

Guiding Questions

  • When you first arrived at the University of Arkansas, did you realize the history you were making?
  • How did the support (or lack of support) from coaches and fans impact your experience?
  • What was the hardest part of being the first Black quarterback at the university?
  • Can you share a moment when the racial adversity you faced hit you the hardest?
  • How did your teammates help you through this challenging period?
  • What lessons did you take from this experience that you still apply today?
  • If you could go back and give advice to your younger self during that time, what would it be?
  • How did writing your book help you process those experiences?
  • Do you think things have changed for Black quarterbacks in college football today?
  • What’s the biggest misconception people have about your journey?

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Doubling Human Wealth

Noah Healy:

Doubling Human Wealth

Noah Healy’s breakthrough invention could transform financial markets, making them hundreds of thousands of times more efficient. His system introduces a four-player model that would radically change how prices are set and markets operate, paving the way for a more transparent and productive global economy.

Bio

Noah Healy is a market designer and game theorist working on better economic systems. After training in nuclear engineering he worked for tech startups at the peak of the dot com boom. Becoming fascinated by the mathematics of information and computation led to patent work on a better commodity market design.

Topics

  • The development and inspiration behind Noah’s financial market invention.
  • The mathematical principles that led to discovering the more efficient system.
  • The four-player market system and how it differs from traditional models.
  • How transparency and productivity can reshape the global economy.
  • The potential for this invention to double human wealth.
  • The practical applications of this system in current markets.
  • Challenges faced in bringing this system to the public domain.
  • How this innovation could affect everyday consumers and producers.
  • The role of technology in advancing economic systems.
  • The philosophical implications of efficiency in economics and human well-being.

Guiding Questions

  • What sparked your interest in math, and how did that lead to this invention?
  • Can you walk us through the concept of your four-player market system?
  • What makes your system so much more efficient than current market systems?
  • How would this invention affect everyday people involved in production and consumption?
  • You mention the potential to double human wealth—can you explain that in more detail?
  • What were some of the biggest challenges in turning your idea into a public patent?
  • How do you see the transition from our current financial markets to this new system?
  • What changes would we see in the economy if this system were widely adopted?
  • Can you explain how this system would reduce costs and increase transparency?
  • How does your invention align with your personal philosophy on productivity and fairness?

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The Risk-Takers Mindset

Shane Emmons:

The Risk-Takers Mindset

Shane built a career in corporate tech, proving himself at every turn. But after hitting a glass ceiling, he made a radical choice that transformed his career—and his mindset.

Bio

Shane Emmons is the Founder and CEO of Swept.AI, a company challenging the way we think about the management of artificial intelligence. With 25 years in the tech industry, Shane brings decades of deep expertise in data science and modeling, combined with 15 years of hands-on experience as a startup engineer and executive. His journey through the startup landscape includes early failures, 9-figure successes, and every waystation in between.

An active voice in technology discourse, Shane shares his rich insights through blogging and LinkedIn, focusing on critical issues such as AI ethics, organizational design, and technology and businesses strategies. At Swept.AI, he is at the forefront of developing advanced systems for validating and supervising AI agents, setting new benchmarks for ROI, reliability, and transparency in the field.

Shane’s leadership style is profoundly influenced by ‘teal’ thinking, which prioritizes adaptability, shared purpose, and self-management, a mindset cultivated under the mentorship of his long-time coach and friend, Dr. Keith Merron.

Topics

  • Breaking Free from Corporate Bureaucracy
  • The Power of Taking Risks in Your Career
  • Trusting Your Gut vs. Overanalyzing Decisions
  • How Podcasts Can Spark Major Life Changes
  • The Challenges of Scaling a Startup from the Ground Up
  • Why Climbing the Corporate Ladder Isn’t Always the Best Move
  • From Employee to Entrepreneur: Lessons from the Transition
  • The Realities of Leading a Startup vs. a Corporation
  • The Role of Imposter Syndrome in High-Stakes Leadership
  • Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap Into the Unknown

Guiding Questions

  • What was the moment you realized corporate life wasn’t for you?
  • How did your first major career shift come about?
  • What role did podcasts play in changing your perspective?
  • You mentioned negotiating a hybrid schedule—how did that change your mindset?
  • What were the biggest surprises when transitioning from corporate to startups?
  • Did you face imposter syndrome as a startup leader? If so, how did you handle it?
  • How do you know when it’s time to take a career risk?
  • What advice would you give to someone stuck in a bureaucratic job?
  • What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned about trusting your gut?
  • If you could go back and give yourself advice at the start of your career, what would it be?

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Purpose Beyond Pain

Terry Tucker:

Purpose Beyond Pain

In 2012, Terry Tucker’s world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with melanoma and given a death sentence. Over ten years later, after losing both a foot and leg, he’s found a new mission in life—sharing lessons learned through adversity and helping others find meaning even in their darkest times.

Bio

Terry Tucker is an author, speaker, and podcast guest on the topics of motivation, mindset, and self-development. He has a business administration degree from The Citadel (where he played NCAA Division I college basketball) and a master’s degree from Boston University. Among his diverse professional roles, Terry has been a marketing executive, a hospital administrator, a SWAT Hostage Negotiator, a business owner, and for the past thirteen years, a cancer warrior (which saw the amputation of his foot in 2018 and his leg in 2020). He is the author of the book Sustainable Excellence, Ten Principles To Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary Life, and a featured author in the book Perspectives On Cancer, Stories Of Healing, Hope, & Resilience. Terry has been published in Authority, Thrive Global, and Human Capital Leadership magazines, along with being quoted and highlighted in the books, Your Blueprint for Purpose by John Creekmur and Audaciousness, Your Journey To Living A Bold And Authentic Life by Maribel Ortega and Helen Strong.

Topics

  • The psychological and emotional impact of receiving a terminal diagnosis.
  • How faith, family, and friends have been integral to surviving cancer.
  • The concept of “finding meaning in your misery” and how to apply it to life.
  • The role of resilience in overcoming personal and physical challenges.
  • Navigating life after losing a limb: physical, emotional, and mental hurdles.
  • The shift in identity from athlete and law enforcement officer to cancer warrior.
  • How to find new purpose after life-altering events.
  • The lessons cancer has taught him about being a better person.
  • How adversity helps reveal one’s true self.
  • The importance of relationships and connections in facing adversity.

Guiding Questions

  • When you were first diagnosed with melanoma, how did you process the initial prognosis?
  • What role did faith, family, and friends play in helping you stay strong during your treatments?
  • You mentioned that cancer has made you a better person. In what ways do you feel you’ve grown through this experience?
  • What has been the hardest physical challenge for you since losing your foot and leg, and how did you overcome it?
  • You speak about finding meaning in your misery. Can you share an example of a moment when that mindset shifted everything for you?
  • How did your past as a college athlete and SWAT officer prepare you for the fight against cancer?
  • What’s been the most surprising lesson you’ve learned from the adversity you’ve faced?
  • How do you stay motivated when there are no “good days” or “remission periods” in your treatment?
  • Can you talk about the importance of relationships, specifically with your family and creator, in making you feel like the richest man in the world?
  • If someone is facing a major life challenge, what advice would you give them to help them endure and even thrive?

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The Power of Surrender

Imani Robinson:

The Power of Surrender

Imani knew God from a young age, but without strong discipleship, she found herself lost in the world. It wasn’t until she surrendered fully that she saw how God could rebuild what was broken.

Bio

Minister, Wife, Mother, Author

Masters of Arts in Psychology, Bradley University (Peoria, IL), Bachelors of Arts in Education, Certified Biblical Counselor, Certified Life Coach, Certified Urban Youth Leadership/Development (DVULI) Initiative, 10 years experience in Trauma/Crisis Rehabilitation for Youth and Women, 14 years health and wellness experience,16 years experience in Public Speaking, 20 years in Community Ministry. 

Topics

  • The dangers of backsliding and its consequences
  • How faith can truly rebuild a life
  • Recognizing red flags in relationships through a spiritual lens
  • Learning to surrender control to God
  • Overcoming loneliness when your transformation distances old friends
  • The ongoing process of sanctification and personal growth
  • How early faith without discipleship can lead to missteps
  • The role of hardship in deepening one’s relationship with God
  • Breaking free from destructive patterns through faith
  • The importance of discernment in major life decisions

Guiding Questions

  • Can you take us back to your early faith and how it shaped your childhood?
  • What led you away from your faith, and what were the consequences?
  • You mentioned marrying someone without seeking God’s guidance—how did that impact your journey?
  • What was your turning point when you realized you needed to surrender everything to God?
  • How did your transformation affect your relationships with old friends and family?
  • What were some of the biggest internal struggles you faced during this rebuilding process?
  • Can you describe a moment when you truly felt God’s presence in your transformation?
  • What advice do you have for those who feel stuck in a backslidden state?
  • How do you continue to grow spiritually, and what does that process look like for you today?
  • What would you say to someone afraid to surrender their life to God?

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The Leadership Spark

Sara Causey:

The Leadership Spark

Feeling trapped in a stagnant career, Sara found herself at a crossroads. A documentary on Dag Hammarskjöld reignited her creativity, leading her to write about his leadership and eventually publish a children’s book designed to inspire introverted and highly sensitive kids.

Bio

Sara Causey is the owner of Causey Consulting LLC and the author of Decoding the Unicorn: A New Look at Dag Hammarskjöld, a compelling exploration of how one of history’s most inspiring leaders mastered the art of quiet leadership.

With a background in HR, staffing, and leadership development, Sara brings a unique perspective to Hammarskjöld’s timeless legacy, making his lessons accessible to leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers today.

Her work shines a light on humility, accountability, and the importance of fostering inclusion and cultural sensitivity in leadership. Through her writing, Sara inspires others to lead with purpose and compassion, helping them unlock their full potential.

Topics

  • How discovering a historical figure reignited Sara’s passion for writing.
  • Balancing a creative career while recovering from burnout.
  • The power of storytelling in leadership.
  • How introverted and highly sensitive children can thrive with the right support.
  • Learning to follow your passion and trust your calling.
  • Overcoming the fear of change when pursuing a creative path.
  • The impact of leadership lessons from historical figures on modern life.
  • How self-reflection and alignment lead to professional success.
  • The importance of resting and stepping away from hustle culture.
  • Navigating career crossroads and finding your true purpose.

Guiding Questions

  • What was it about Dag Hammarskjöld’s life that captivated you so deeply?
  • Can you walk us through the moment when you realized writing was your next step?
  • How did your background in staffing and HR prepare you for the creative work you’re doing now?
  • What challenges did you face while transitioning from corporate work to writing and publishing?
  • What’s the story behind your children’s book, and why did you choose to focus on introverted children?
  • How have you learned to balance your work ethic with taking care of yourself?
  • How do you deal with the overwhelming pressure of creating and staying productive while maintaining alignment with your values?
  • What leadership lessons from Dag Hammarskjöld stand out to you the most, and how do they apply today?
  • What does “alignment” mean to you in both your personal and professional life?
  • In a world that values constant hustle, how did you redefine success for yourself?

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Unseen, Unstoppable

Michelle Steiner:

Unseen, Unstoppable

Growing up with dyscalculia and other learning disabilities, Michelle struggled with school, self-doubt, and societal expectations. Despite the obstacles, she found a path to success and now helps others do the same.

Bio

Michelle Steiner lives with an invisible disability. From the start many people have told her she could not go to college, get her bachelor’s degree, get published or have the job she wanted. She has been able to do all of that and more. Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Programing. She has articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready. She works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats.

Topics

  • Overcoming the stigma of learning disabilities
  • Dyscalculia: More than just being “bad at math”
  • The importance of self-advocacy in education
  • How to navigate college with a learning disability
  • Strategies for building confidence despite setbacks
  • The underestimated power of accommodations in education
  • Finding success outside of traditional expectations
  • How learning disabilities impact social experiences
  • Turning struggles into strengths: The mindset shift
  • Encouraging resilience in students with disabilities

Guiding Questions

  • What was your experience growing up with a learning disability?
  • Can you share a moment when you realized you had to advocate for yourself?
  • How did you overcome the discouragement from educators who doubted you?
  • What specific strategies helped you succeed in college despite dyscalculia?
  • How has your perspective on your disability changed over time?
  • What are some common misconceptions about learning disabilities?
  • How do you help others who are facing similar challenges?
  • What role did writing play in shaping your confidence and identity?
  • What advice would you give to students struggling with self-doubt?
  • How can schools and workplaces better support individuals with learning disabilities?

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Leadership and Burnout

James Zeigler:

Leadership and Burnout

After decades of climbing the career ladder, James Zeigler found himself at the top of his game—and at the edge of losing it all. In his journey from near-death to recovery, James learned that true success requires balance, integrity, and a shift in how we handle stress.

Bio

James is a husband, father, grandfather, keynote speaker, author, and a friend to many.

He is a seasoned leader with over 35 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in

helping individuals achieve a harmonious blend of leadership and life through self-

awareness and the reduction of both internal and external bullying. His work focuses on

empowering people to build stronger, more effective relationships, both personally and

professionally, by enhancing their communication and listening skills.

Throughout his career, James has held significant leadership roles, including

owner/operator of a private speech-language pathology practice, assistant professor,

Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Executive Officer. He has managed organizations

with operating budgets of up to $800 million and led teams of over 4,000 Full-Time

Equivalent Employees (FTEE). A proud U.S. Air Force Veteran, James also served as a

Senior Executive Service Member in the Veterans Health Administration, where he

contributed to shaping policy and leadership within the federal government. He holds a

life appointment by the President of the United States of America.

As a keynote and inspirational speaker, James is passionate about guiding others to

discover their full potential. His mission is simple: to equip people with the confidence to “one another”, fostering kindness, collaboration, and respect. His vision is to reduce

bullying by coming alongside the accusatory voice within each of us and partnering,

paving the way for a safer, more compassionate world. James is also a certified

Professional Christian Leadership Coach trained by the Professional Christian Coaching

Institute and Coach Training Institute. Hot off the press in November 2024, James

released his book: Chemical Courage: Reframing the bully within for a healthier world.

In this book he carefully protects the identity of over 70 anonymous contributors who

shared stories of being bullied and gives a compelling message from a near death

experience of his own.

James is also an ordained minister, a budding author, and a lover of music. He enjoys

playing guitar and writing worship music, finding inspiration in the beauty of life, faith,

and service. He and his wife, Brenda have two grown children. They live in rural

Wisconsin, where they cherish time with their granddaughters and bird and squirrel

watching.

At his core, James believes that people are beautiful and have much to beheld—both

within themselves and in the relationships they cultivate. Through coaching, he helps

others discover this truth, enabling them to flourish with and for one another.

Topics

  • The impact of childhood trauma on leadership and life.
  • The role of stress in burnout and health crises.
  • Why truth-telling and integrity are key to leadership.
  • The importance of self-care and boundaries in high-stress roles.
  • The dangers of “grinding” without balance.
  • How to identify and manage your “inner bully.”
  • The psychology of stress and its physical toll (cortisol and inflammation).
  • The leadership lessons from military service and their application in civilian life.
  • The transformation from executive burnout to self-discovery.
  • The power of vulnerability and asking for help when needed.

Guiding Questions

  • What was the traumatic experience you faced in kindergarten, and how did it shape you?
  • You’ve mentioned the role of integrity in your life. Can you share a specific moment where that value guided you through a difficult time?
  • How did your military service influence your leadership style?
  • At what point did you realize that “the grind” was taking a physical and mental toll on you?
  • You had a life-threatening experience with a pulmonary embolism. How did that change your perspective on leadership and work-life balance?
  • What role did stress and cortisol play in your health crisis?
  • You mentioned a “truth-teller” mentality. How does that influence your approach to leadership and coaching?
  • What advice would you give to someone struggling with burnout in a leadership role?
  • How did your relationship with your family change during your high-pressure career?
  • Can you explain what you mean by “chemical courage” and how it relates to your personal story?

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Beyond the Summit

Kevin Strauss:

Beyond the Summit

A three-week NOLS expedition across Washington’s rugged landscapes gave Kevin the challenge of a lifetime. What he learned on this trip was more than just wilderness survival – it was about expanding his boundaries and discovering a new level of confidence.

Bio

Kevin R. Strauss, M.E. is an innovator, emotional health & wellness expert, and CEO of Uchi, a social app dedicated to strengthening relationships and improving behaviors. As a trained biomedical engineer with more than 75 patents, a book titled Innovate The 1%, and numerous peer-reviewed publications in spine, psychology, and human behavior, Kevin’s career has fueled his passion for understanding people and “why we behave the way we do.”

Kevin’s mission is simple: to make life easier and happier for everyone by supporting Formula 4 Wellness—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. When he’s not developing solutions for balanced well-being, Kevin enjoys expedition backpacking, ballroom dancing, and is a 23-year, injury-free Ironman Triathlete and Coach.

Topics

  • The concept of the comfort, stretch, and panic zones.
  • Overcoming the urge to quit in extreme situations.
  • Lessons learned from wilderness survival.
  • The mental strength required for extreme outdoor adventures.
  • How physical endurance tests can reshape one’s mindset.
  • Applying lessons from NOLS to everyday life challenges.
  • The role of goal-setting in personal growth and endurance.
  • The power of discomfort in expanding personal limits.
  • How being uncomfortable in nature can lead to confidence.
  • The psychological journey of mountaineering and extreme outdoor expeditions.

Guiding Questions

  • What was going through your mind when you wanted to quit on day three?
  • Can you explain what the comfort, stretch, and panic zones are and how they played a role in your experience?
  • How did the conditions of the expedition push you mentally and physically?
  • What was your biggest takeaway from your experience at NOLS?
  • How did your perspective on personal limits change during the course?
  • What kept you going when it felt like you couldn’t take another step?
  • How did the concept of expanding your comfort zone apply to your life after the trip?
  • What was the most memorable moment of your NOLS journey, and why?
  • How did the physical challenges on the course translate to a mental shift in your everyday life?
  • What advice would you give to someone facing a challenge that seems too big to overcome?

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Leading with Purpose

Vrushali And Blossom:

Leading with Purpose

Vrushali had a thriving corporate career, financial security, and the freedom to indulge in anything she wanted—yet, something felt off. Realizing that material success wasn’t fulfilling, she set out to find deeper purpose and now mentors senior executives, ensuring they take action instead of being paralyzed by overwhelm.

Bio

I manage a wealth accountability mentorship program.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

I listen to worries, doubts, insecurities. Hold a safe space to get all this Eff onto paper. Then you think, wink, do a double blink. Crumple the paper and chuck it! Life gets so much brighter and better! When life gave me lemons, I went and exchanged the lemons!

Education qualification: UnderGrad Commerce degree

Corporate experience: Public sector operations, information security and internal audits. Female Employee of Choice for projects in West Yorkshire and Bristol.

Clinical experience: With celebrities’ most preferred Veterinarian in my city > Wealth and Wellness experience: with the most sought-after coach this side of the world recognised by NFNLP and Maia Kincaid > 2021 I began actively mentoring smart achievers who wanted to exchange frustration and time crunch for well deserved career promotions and family (pet) time.

Topics

  • Why financial success doesn’t always lead to fulfillment
  • Recognizing the early signs of burnout and dissatisfaction
  • The hidden cost of regret in high-level careers
  • How accountability mentorship helps executives take action
  • Work-life balance for ambitious professionals
  • The connection between pet ownership and leadership skills
  • How to stop overwhelm from sabotaging your progress
  • The difference between achievement and fulfillment
  • The mindset shifts necessary for true career satisfaction
  • Lessons from dogs: persistence, commitment, and unwavering support

Guiding Questions

  • Can you take us back to the moment you realized corporate success wasn’t fulfilling?
  • What was it about shopping that made you realize something was missing?
  • How did you transition from corporate life to an accountability mentorship role?
  • What are some of the biggest regrets you’ve seen executives face?
  • How does being a pet parent influence your approach to mentorship?
  • What are some small signs that someone might be headed toward burnout?
  • Why do high achievers struggle with taking action on personal goals?
  • What’s the difference between having a mentor and having an accountability coach?
  • How do you help executives make lasting changes in their careers and lives?
  • What advice would you give to someone who feels stuck but isn’t sure why?

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