Badass Leaders Podcast: Leadership, Career Growth, and Company Culture

Why High Performers Stay Stuck (And How to Break Through) | Hilary Porta | S2 E16

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0200

What if the real reason you feel stuck isn’t your strategy, your team, or your execution—but your identity?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Hilary Porta, identity and performance expert, to unpack what actually drives leadership behavior, decision-making, and long-term success. This conversation goes beyond mindset and into the subconscious patterns, nervous system responses, and internal beliefs that quietly shape how leaders show up.

Hilary shares how high performers unknowingly sabotage their own growth, why traditional leadership development often falls short, and what it really takes to scale a business without losing yourself in the process.

Learn More About Hilary Porta:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hilary.porta
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamhilaryporta/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-porta-566b486/
Website: www.hporta.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAMTheLifeArchitect
Other: https://thelifearchitect.kartra.com/page/vipdiscoverycall

The discussion also tackles questions…

Why do high performers still feel stuck even when they’re doing everything right?
What subconscious beliefs are limiting leadership growth and decision-making?
Why isn’t mindset work alone enough for true transformation?
How does identity impact business success and leadership effectiveness?
What causes leaders to micromanage, control, or operate from fear?
How can you identify and change limiting patterns in your behavior?
What does it mean to “scale from soul” in business?
How do you build a successful company without sacrificing your relationships or well-being?
What are the signs your nervous system is working against your performance?
How can leaders create alignment between who they are and how they lead?

Themes:

Identity and leadership alignment
Subconscious programming and behavior patterns
Nervous system regulation and high performance
Emotional intelligence vs identity-level transformation
Leadership blind spots and self-awareness
Scaling businesses without burnout or identity loss
Culture, agreements, and team dynamics
Personal growth, fulfillment, and legacy
Fear, control, and micromanagement in leadership
Intentional living and daily practices for leaders

Production

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, read more here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/be-our-guest/

Why Successful Leaders Still Feel Unfulfilled | Susanne Biro | S2 E15

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0200

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Susanne Biro, executive coach to CEOs and senior leaders, shares what she’s learned after decades of working behind the scenes with some of the most successful people in the world. From navigating her own experience with depression in her twenties to advising leaders of billion-dollar organizations, Susanne reveals the hidden fears, internal pressure, and mental patterns that quietly shape performance, decision-making, and fulfillment.

This conversation goes beyond surface-level leadership advice and dives into the real work most leaders avoid: self-awareness, emotional mastery, and honest communication. Susanne breaks down how “Deep Fear” shows up even at the highest levels, why success often fails to deliver fulfillment, and how leaders can shift their internal dialogue to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

You’ll also learn practical tools to strengthen self-awareness, improve communication, and take control of your inner narrative so you can lead more effectively without burning out.

Learn More About Susanne Biro:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanne-biro-executivecoach/
Website: https://susannebiro.com/
Podcast: https://deepfearpodcast.com/
Book: https://susannebiro.com/book/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Tony Robbins: https://www.tonyrobbins.com/
Michael Singer: https://untetheredsoul.com/
Susanne’s TEDx: https://youtu.be/5mv6OX8ylP4?si=4GO9w5yu3lD7Y3ip

The discussion also tackles questions…

Why do high-performing leaders still feel unfulfilled, even after achieving success?
What is “Deep Fear,” and how does it quietly impact decision-making and leadership performance?
Why does the human mind default to negative thinking, and how can you change it?
How do you know if your inner dialogue is helping or hurting your leadership?
What’s the difference between success and fulfillment, and why do so many leaders confuse the two?
How can leaders improve self-awareness in a practical, daily way?
What does real listening actually look like in leadership conversations?
Why do leaders avoid difficult conversations, and how can they start having them more effectively?
How can you reframe fear into growth and build confidence through action?
What daily habits help leaders stay grounded, focused, and resilient under pressure?

Themes:

The inner game of leadership and self-awareness
Hidden fear and pressure in high-performing leaders
Emotional intelligence and executive decision-making
Success vs. fulfillment and the “outer life trap”
The power of mindset and internal dialogue
Building confidence through action and discomfort
Brave conversations and authentic communication
The role of relationships and human connection in leadership
Personal responsibility and self-mastery
Daily practices for mental clarity and resilience

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

AI Won’t Replace You… But This Will (Lessons from Microsoft) | Allister Frost | S2 E14

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0200

What if the biggest threat to your career isn’t AI… but your comfort zone?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Allister Frost, former Digital Marketing Strategy Leader at Microsoft, to unpack what it really takes to stay relevant in a world where change is accelerating faster than ever.

After starting his career in traditional manufacturing with a mindset of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Allister experienced a complete shift at Microsoft, where he realized that if something works today, it’s already obsolete. That insight became the foundation of his work helping leaders and teams develop a Future-Ready Mindset.

In this conversation, you’ll learn why most professionals don’t realize they’re falling behind until it’s too late, how to break out of the comfort zone that quietly kills growth, and the practical framework Allister uses to help people continuously adapt, innovate, and stay indispensable in the age of AI.

This episode is especially relevant for leaders, professionals, and teams navigating rapid change, digital transformation, and uncertainty about the future of work.

Learn More About Allister Frost:

Mentioned in this Episode:

Drew Harden: https://youtu.be/Z1xPDTB_TxA
Corean Canty: https://youtu.be/TamYKG3Ig84
Raheem Beyah: https://youtu.be/qab7tPVmWng
Amazing by Aerosmith: https://youtu.be/zSmOvYzSeaQ?si=9ht0yi46nFHRcnnk

About The AGN Group:
Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

How do you stay relevant in the AI era without becoming overwhelmed?
What are the early warning signs you’re becoming professionally obsolete?
Why do most change initiatives fail inside organizations?
What is a Future-Ready Mindset, and how is it different from a growth mindset?
What skills can AI NOT replace in the future of work?
How can leaders overcome change fatigue in their teams?
What daily habits help you continuously adapt and grow?
How do you build curiosity and creativity in a structured work environment?
What are leaders getting dangerously wrong about AI right now?
How can individuals take ownership of change instead of waiting for direction?

Themes:

Future-ready leadership and mindset
Adapting to rapid change and uncertainty
Career resilience and staying relevant
Human skills vs AI (curiosity, creativity, communication)
Breaking out of the comfort zone
Continuous transformation and innovation
Leadership in the age of AI
Empowering teams to drive change
Personal ownership of growth and development

You Don't Have a Funding Problem—You Have a Strategy Problem | Dr. Rebecca Sutherns | S2 E13

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:00 +0200

What if your leadership team isn’t actually aligned, even though everyone thinks they are?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Rebecca Sutherns, an imagination strategist who has spent nearly three decades working with non-profit leaders, boards, and mission-driven organizations navigating complexity, constraint, and constant change.

Rebecca challenges a deeply ingrained assumption in leadership: that strategy is about analyzing the past. Instead, she makes the case that many leadership breakdowns are actually a failure of imagination, where teams rely on shared language but hold completely different visions of success.

Through real-world examples, including a non-profit board divided over what “success” actually looked like, Rebecca breaks down how hidden misalignment quietly derails decision-making, slows progress, and limits impact.

This conversation explores how leaders can define what “winning” really means in mission-driven work, move from scarcity thinking to possibility thinking, and lead through uncertainty without burning out their teams.

Learn More About Dr. Rebecca Sutherns:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasutherns/
Website: https://rebeccasutherns.com/
Book: https://rebeccasutherns.com/learn-from-me/#books
Podcast: https://rebeccasutherns.com/podcast/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Daniel Steere’s episode: https://youtu.be/3ony669Dmy4?si=3bJgC4vveyz1jgDV

Production

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

Why do leadership teams think they’re aligned when they’re actually not?
How can non-profit leaders clearly define what “success” or “winning” really means?
What does it look like when a board is unintentionally limiting an organization’s impact?
How do you lead effectively when resources are constrained and uncertainty is constant?
What’s the difference between strategy that works and strategy that becomes irrelevant?
How can leaders distinguish what’s fixed versus what’s flexible in their organization?
Why does scarcity thinking lead to overly cautious decision-making?
How do you re-engage teams that are exhausted by constant change?
What role do curiosity and imagination play in real-world strategic decision-making?
How can leaders use strategy as a decision-making filter instead of a static document?

Themes:

Leadership alignment and hidden misalignment
Non-profit leadership and board dynamics
Strategy as a living decision-making tool
Defining “what winning looks like” in mission-driven work
Scarcity vs. possibility thinking
Imagination as a strategic leadership skill
Adaptability and leading through uncertainty
Change fatigue and re-engaging teams
Values alignment and meaningful work
Collective decision-making and shared vision

PR Expert Exposes Why You’re Not Getting Clients | Barrie Cohen | S2 E12

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0200

What if the reason you’re not getting opportunities has nothing to do with your talent—and everything to do with your visibility?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela sits down with PR expert Barrie Cohen, founder of BC Public Relations, to unpack the uncomfortable truth many leaders avoid: being great at what you do is no longer enough if no one knows you exist.

Barrie shares how she built her firm after walking away from a transactional agency model, and why she believes modern leadership requires a shift toward relational credibility, not just results. Through real client stories and behind-the-scenes insight, she breaks down how experts go from overlooked to in-demand—and where most people get it wrong.

This conversation goes beyond traditional PR advice. You’ll learn how visibility actually drives business growth, why “good work speaks for itself” is a dangerous mindset, and what it takes to build long-term authority in a noisy, digital-first world.

Learn More About Barrie Cohen:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barriecohenpr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barriecohenpr/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrie-cohenpr/
Website: https://bcpublicrelations.com/

Mentioned in this Episode:

The Trending Communicator Podcast by Dan Nestle: https://www.trendingcommunicator.com/

The discussion also tackles questions…

How do I get featured in the media or on podcasts?
Why am I not getting recognized for my work?
How do I build authority in my industry?
What’s the difference between PR and marketing?
How long does it actually take for PR to work?
How do I know if I’m ready for PR or media exposure?
What makes someone “media-ready”?
How do I turn visibility into real business growth and clients?
What should I have in place before hiring a PR agency?
How do I choose the right PR partner for my business?
When is the right time to invest in visibility and personal branding?
Can too much visibility too early hurt my credibility?

Themes:

Visibility vs. invisibility in modern leadership
Why expertise alone no longer drives opportunity
Building trust and credibility through earned media
Relational vs. transactional business models
The reality of PR: timelines, expectations, and strategy
Thought leadership: what it is and when it actually makes sense
Target audience clarity and why most messaging fails
Leveraging media opportunities for long-term growth
Leadership decisions: values, boundaries, and firing clients
The role of discomfort and vulnerability in building a public presence

Production

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, read more here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/be-our-guest/

Most Leaders Avoid This Skill — And It's Costing You | S2 E11

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:30:00 +0100

Great leadership advice rarely comes from textbooks. More often, it comes from a single moment, a hard conversation, or a piece of feedback that changes how someone sees themselves as a leader.

In this special compilation episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms brings together powerful moments from past conversations with founders, executives, and leadership experts to explore the advice that has shaped their leadership journeys.

From learning how one conversation can alter the course of a career, to navigating criticism about communication style, to understanding how leaders build connection and resolve conflict, this episode highlights the real-world lessons that leaders carry with them for decades.

You’ll hear insights on how courageous communication strengthens leadership, why curiosity and empathy are essential in team culture, and how great leaders learn to turn feedback, conflict, and uncertainty into growth.

Guests Highlighted in this Episode:

Aimee: https://youtu.be/Ukjz6NJJfUI?si=5yzQQ0AJNaeoDyg8
Barrie: Coming soon!
Bud: https://youtu.be/DMA1L2B5xsM?si=srmjuQMitsuHnMem
Catharine: https://youtu.be/dQl8Pf0T8Og?si=K3T_4e2FSohZZQfY
Cathleen: https://youtu.be/A1FVVQ1hmi4?si=3hL9HjSPJwbggHgB
Eric: https://youtu.be/mMCg-aW8eoQ?si=i5JmIHei6gLUe6j5
Jonathan: https://youtu.be/KPxqtHuO03A?si=zk3OhvO_mTxcHkRp
Crystal: https://youtu.be/kKnJMK_BP7w?si=ryuh_2GX7yu2-KD7

The discussion also tackles questions…

How can one conversation change the trajectory of a career?
What should leaders do when they’re labeled “too aggressive” or “too direct”?
How do effective leaders handle workplace conflict before it escalates?
What leadership habits help teams feel heard, valued, and understood?
How can leaders create stronger connections with their teams without becoming a therapist?
What role does curiosity play in leadership and decision-making?
How can leaders build courage to speak their truth in difficult environments?
What advice do experienced leaders wish they had received earlier in their careers?

Themes:

Leadership development through real-world experiences
Courageous communication in leadership
Navigating feedback and perception as a leader
The power of influence and meaningful conversations
Conflict resolution and leadership curiosity
Building human connection in professional environments
Growth mindset and personal leadership evolution

Production

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, read more here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/be-our-guest/

Too Nice to Lead? The People-Pleaser Trap | Russell Harvey | S2 E10

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:45:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with leadership advisor Russell Harvey to unpack the deeply human side of leadership resilience. Russell shares candid stories from his career about navigating workplace bullying, confronting people-pleasing tendencies, and learning how to assert boundaries without losing empathy.

Together, they explore how strengths-based leadership can help leaders better understand themselves, build more resilient teams, and respond more effectively to pressure.

Russell explains why empathy can sometimes become a liability for leaders, how people-pleasing quietly erodes authority, and what it takes to shift from surviving leadership stress to leading with confidence and clarity.

The conversation also dives into practical frameworks like strengths-based leadership and tools such as StrengthsFinder and Working Genius, offering leaders concrete ways to understand how they show up under pressure.

Learn More About Russell Harvey:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theresiliencecoach/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russelltheresiliencecoach/
Website:https://www.theresiliencecoach.co.uk/

Mentioned in this Episode:

StrengthsFinder / CliftonStrengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx
Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com/
Strengthscope – Strengths-based leadership development tool

The AGN Group

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

How do you deal with workplace bullying as a leader?
Why do people-pleasing tendencies hurt leadership effectiveness?
Can empathy become a weakness in leadership?
How do resilient leaders respond to pressure and conflict?
What does strengths-based leadership actually look like in practice?
How can leaders use tools like StrengthsFinder or Working Genius to understand their leadership style?
How do you assert boundaries at work without damaging relationships?
What are the early warning signs of leadership burnout or emotional strain?
How can leaders turn difficult career experiences into growth?

Themes:

Leadership resilience
People-pleasing in leadership
Workplace bullying and difficult professional dynamics
Strengths-based leadership
Emotional intelligence and empathy
Assertiveness and boundary-setting
Self-awareness in leadership development
Leadership growth through adversity
Psychological safety and healthy workplace cultures

Why the American Dream Isn’t Working – and What Leaders Must Do Next | Alfredo Mathew III | S2 E9

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with entrepreneur, educator, and systems thinker Alfredo Mathew III to explore a provocative idea: the American Dream was built around individual success, but the future may depend on shared prosperity and ownership.

Alfredo’s journey spans public school classrooms in the South Bronx and Oakland, entrepreneurship in Silicon Valley, and building organizations that help communities create lasting economic opportunity. Along the way, he reached a powerful realization: access to education, jobs, and capital is not enough. Without ownership—of businesses, assets, and opportunity—many people remain stuck on the economic sidelines.

This conversation digs into the leadership decisions and risks behind Alfredo’s work helping launch hundreds of businesses and his latest initiative to build community-centered economic infrastructure through shared ownership models.

Angela and Alfredo unpack what leaders often get wrong about entrepreneurship, why the “winner-take-all” economy leaves talent untapped, and how leaders can rethink success, power, and economic mobility.

Learn More About Alfredo Mathew III:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredomathew/
Website: https://www.sharedprosperity.co/
Other: https://substack.com/@alfredomathew?utm_source=user-menu

Mentioned in this Episode:

ESO Ventures: https://www.eso-ventures.com/
Bible in a Year podcast: https://hallow.com/blog/bible-in-a-year-with-father-mike-schmitz/

About The AGN Group:

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

What is the difference between access and ownership in business and leadership?
Why do so many entrepreneurship programs fail to create long-term economic mobility?
How do leaders define success in systems designed around winner-take-all outcomes?
What leadership decisions help communities build shared prosperity instead of individual wins?
Why is revenue generation more important than capital access for founders?
What should entrepreneurs understand about assets vs wages when building wealth?
How can leaders design businesses that outlast the founder?
What role does economic ownership play in leadership and economic opportunity?
How do leaders build organizations that create both profit and public benefit?
What leadership skills are necessary to build systems that include those historically excluded?

Themes:

Redefining Leadership Success: Why leadership today requires moving beyond individual achievement toward building shared systems of opportunity.
Access vs Ownership: Understanding why access to education, capital, or opportunity alone doesn’t create long-term economic mobility.
Entrepreneurship as an Economic On-Ramp: How small business ownership can become a pathway to wealth and stability when systems support growth beyond the startup phase.
Economic Systems Thinking: Why solving inequality requires redesigning economic infrastructure—not just offering programs or funding.
Leadership That Outlasts the Founder: How strong leaders build organizations and systems capable of continuing without them.
The Future of Inclusive Economies: What it takes to design economic models that create prosperity across entire communities.

What Most Leaders Get Wrong About Transformation | Dr. Ekanjali Dhillon | S2 E8

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0100

What does leadership actually look like when the stakes are real and failure isn’t an option?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, physician and digital transformation leader Dr. Ekanjali Dhillon pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to deliver large-scale change inside complex healthcare systems. Drawing on her experience helping lead one of the UK’s largest electronic health record (EHR) deployments, she shares the hard-earned lessons most transformation playbooks miss.

This conversation goes beyond theory into the messy reality of modern leadership: competing priorities, fragile alignment, resistance from intelligent stakeholders, and the emotional load of making high-consequence decisions under pressure.

You’ll hear why big transformations rarely fail for the reasons leaders think, how to build trust when you don’t have formal authority, and what separates leaders who look good on paper from those who actually deliver results at scale.

Learn More About Ekanjali Dhillon:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekanjali/

Mentioned in this Episode:

HCA Healthcare UK: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/
London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust: https://www.lnwh.nhs.uk/
NH: https://www.nhs.uk/
Hamlet by William Shakespeare (“To thine own self be true”): https://nosweatshakespeare.com/quotes/famous/to-thine-own-self-be-true/

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

What actually breaks first in large-scale transformations?
How do you lead when failure isn’t an option?
How can you influence teams when you don’t have positional authority?
Why do leaders confuse buy-in with true alignment?
How do you handle resistance during major organizational change?
What leadership skills matter most in high-pressure environments?
How do you build trust with highly intelligent, skeptical stakeholders?
When is tension in a transformation healthy vs. dangerous?
How can emerging leaders step up without waiting for permission?
What do the best leaders do differently when stakes are high?

Themes:

Leading transformation at scale
Digital health and EHR implementation reality
Leading without positional power
Communication as the failure point in change programs
Building trust in complex organizations
Stakeholder alignment vs. surface-level buy-in
Operating under sustained pressure
Translating between technical, clinical, and operational worlds
Continuous learning as a leadership discipline
Turning resistance into forward momentum

Why Talent Isn’t Enough to Lead at the Highest Level | Randall Thames | S2 E7

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0100

What actually separates leaders who rise from those who quietly stall out?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela sits down with Randall Thames, CEO of Inspirit Institute and former Senior Partner at Korn Ferry, to unpack the hard truth most high performers miss: talent might open the door, but discipline, consistency, and self-awareness determine how far you actually go.

Randall shares the pivotal childhood moment that reshaped his leadership identity, the internal “dragons” that keep even confident executives stuck, and why process is the armor leaders need when the pressure is highest. Drawing from decades advising CEOs and boards, he breaks down what really drives trust, how to use crisis as a growth catalyst, and why some of the smartest career moves look like steps backward in the moment.

The conversation also tackles the uncomfortable gaps leaders often ignore across Randall’s six leadership pillars: field, family, faith, fitness, fun, and finance. Through real-world stories and practical frameworks, this episode challenges listeners to rethink how they define success and how they prepare for what’s next.

Learn More About Randall Thames:

Mentioned in this Episode:

6 Super Power Pillars: field, family, fun, fitness, faith, finance
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “What Is Your Life’s Blueprint?” speech: https://projects.seattletimes.com/mlk/words-blueprint.html
Mel Robbins (5 Second Rule): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhW2xUEb-B-ZBONmUi1m7h10c4x_RVEeT
Philadelphia (film reference during rapid fire): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107818/

Behind-the-Scenes
Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions like:

How do I know if my leadership growth is stalled?
What leadership skills matter more than raw talent?
How do I overcome imposter syndrome as an executive?
What does it really mean to lead with discipline and consistency?
How do great leaders make decisions under pressure?
When is a lateral career move actually a strategic step forward?
How can I lead through crisis without reacting emotionally?
What causes successful leaders to self-sabotage?
How do I balance career success with personal fulfillment?
What daily habits keep top leaders grounded and effective?

Themes:

Discipline and consistency as leadership differentiators
Internal “dragons” and executive self-sabotage
Process-driven decision making under pressure
Strategic career moves and elevating in place
Crisis as a catalyst for innovation and growth
Holistic leadership across the six life pillars
Identity versus activity in executive advancement
Trust-building through predictable leadership behavior
The transition from corporate success to purpose-driven work

How to Lead in a Toxic Work Environment Without Losing Yourself | Anne Chow | S2 E6

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0100

In this powerful leadership conversation, Anne Chow joins the Badass Leaders Podcast to discuss her book Leading Bigger: The Transformative Power of Inclusion and what it truly means to lead with courage, clarity, and conviction.

Drawing from more than 30 years of executive leadership experience, Anne shares how inclusive leadership drives performance, why culture is a company’s ultimate competitive advantage, and how leaders can avoid the trap of “leading small.” This episode explores practical strategies for building high-performing teams, navigating toxic work environments, protecting your people, and aligning purpose with values.

If you are a CEO, executive, manager, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation will challenge how you think about culture, accountability, and what it takes to create sustainable success.

This condensed re-release highlights the most impactful moments from the original Season 1 conversation, with a link to the full episode available in the description.

Learn More About Anne Chow:

Anne’s full episode: https://youtu.be/JrgdCCOwkG0
Lead Bigger: https://www.theannechow.com/lead-bigger/

About Us
Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

What does it actually mean to “lead bigger”?
How does inclusive leadership improve business performance?
What are the risks of leading small?
How do you protect your team from toxic behavior?
Should you ever fire a client or customer?
How do you build a culture rooted in respect instead of fear?
What’s the difference between core values and aspirational values?
How do you lead in a toxic corporate culture without losing yourself?
Why does company culture determine the success or failure of mergers and acquisitions?
How can leaders create psychological safety without lowering standards?
How do generational differences impact leadership styles?
How do you align personal values with professional leadership?

Key Takeaways:

Inclusive Leadership as a Performance Strategy
Leading Bigger vs. Leading Small
Culture as a Competitive Advantage
Core Values vs. Aspirational Values
Psychological Safety and Accountability
Protecting Your Team
Firing Customers Who Violate Your Values
Navigating Toxic Corporate Environments
Vulnerability and Leadership Growth
Generational Shifts in the Workplace
Purpose-Driven Leadership
Building Teams That Thrive, Not Just Survive

Why Most Cancer Deaths Don’t Have to Happen: White House Cancer Research | Dr. Catharine Young | S2 E5

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, host Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Catharine Young, a scientist, immigrant, and global health leader who has worked at the highest levels of government and international collaboration.

Catharine shares her journey from growing up in post-apartheid South Africa to serving in the White House on the Cancer Moonshot, and now leading efforts to close the cancer care gap in low- and middle-income countries. The conversation explores how systems change actually happens, why early cancer detection is one of the most powerful levers for saving lives, and what it takes to lead boldly inside bureaucratic institutions.

Learn More About Catharine Young:

Mentioned in this Episode:

The Cancer Moonshot (U.S. and global initiatives)
www.gcf.finance
The Dash Poem: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/the-dash-poem-by-linda-ellis/

Similar Episodes:

Brain Cancer Breakthrough to $100M Medical Device: https://youtu.be/ex1hDKRPrxg
Why Diversity Drives Better Healthcare Innovation: https://youtu.be/lrFVN8oN0g0

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions leaders, policymakers, and mission-driven professionals frequently search for, including:

How do global cancer initiatives really get funded?
Why do most cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries?
What is “stage shifting” in cancer care, and why does it matter?
How can governments, nonprofits, and the private sector collaborate without duplicating efforts?
What does it look like to push for urgency inside slow-moving systems?
How can leaders balance burnout, bureaucracy, and long-term impact?

Key Takeaways:

Catching cancer earlier saves lives and reduces long-term healthcare costs
Global health solutions work best when designed with, not for, local communities
Bureaucracy is unavoidable, but leaders can still drive meaningful change within it
Bold decisions often feel uncomfortable in the moment but define long-term impact
Sustainable funding models require creativity beyond traditional philanthropy
Leadership at scale is about systems, not individual heroics

Themes:

Global cancer prevention and early detection
Health equity and access
Leadership inside government and large institutions
Systems change vs. individual impact
Women in STEM leadership
Immigration, resilience, and purpose-driven careers
Navigating urgency in bureaucratic environments

The Real Reason Sales Pipelines Fail | Nicholas Loise | S2 E4

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:45:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Nicholas Loise, founder of Sales Performance Team, to unpack what truly drives sustainable sales growth and strong leadership inside growing organizations. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience across healthcare, SaaS, education, hospitality, and services, Nick breaks down why most companies struggle with sales execution, pipeline accuracy, and differentiation in the marketplace.

The conversation goes beyond theory and dives into real-world leadership decisions, including how misaligned incentives quietly destroy performance, why most leaders misread their pipeline, and what happens when companies compete on price instead of value. Nick also shares how leaders can build repeatable sales systems, ask better questions, and create alignment across sales, marketing, and customer experience.

The discussion also tackles questions people actively search for, including:

What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
How do you articulate value in a crowded market?
Why do sales pipelines look strong but fail to close?
How should leaders handle conflict resolution inside sales teams?
What sales incentives actually motivate high performers?
Why competing on price is a losing strategy for growth companies
How leaders should think about go-to-market strategy and pipeline creation

This episode is a must-listen for founders, executives, and sales leaders who want practical insight instead of surface-level advice.

Learn More About Nicholas Loise:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicholas.loise/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
Website: salesperformanceteam.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicholasloise
Twitter / X: https://x.com/NicholasLoise
Other: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Loise/author/B0DY5M8FXW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1749483905&sr=8-2&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Key Takeaways:

Clear value articulation prevents businesses from becoming commodities
Leaders must ask uncomfortable questions to understand pipeline reality
Misaligned incentives lead to bad deals, churn, and burnout
Sales systems must be repeatable, not personality-driven
Strong leadership requires balancing data with storytelling
Growth stalls when leaders avoid hard conversations

Themes:

Sales leadership and accountability
Pipeline creation and pipeline truth
Go-to-market strategy for SMBs
Direct response marketing
Differentiation and value positioning
Incentives, motivation, and performance
Leadership versus management

What Sustainability Really Means—and Why Most Companies Get It Wrong | Charlie Cichetti | S2 E3

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:45:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Charlie Cichetti shares an honest look at leadership, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and legacy. From being laid off during the 2008 recession to co-founding multiple companies and working at the intersection of green buildings and technology, Charlie reflects on the moments that shaped his leadership philosophy.

The conversation explores what sustainability really means beyond certifications, how leaders can stay coachable through growth and exits, and why long-term impact matters more than short-term wins. Charlie also opens up about mentorship, managing stress as an entrepreneur, building companies with intention, and the mindset shift required to move from success to significance.

This episode is a grounded, thoughtful discussion for leaders, founders, and anyone navigating a career pivot while trying to build something that actually matters.

Learn More About Charlie Cichetti:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/
skema.ai: https://www.skema.ai/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell: https://www.buybackyourtime.com/
U.S. Green Building Council: https://www.usgbc.org/
LEED: https://www.usgbc.org/leed
Green Building Matters Podcast (featuring Angela Gill Nelms): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4x6238kGvPCnH7lkFGVJRp?si=rOuq7RPJSsi8HqS-lAB9Aw
John Maxwell levels of leadership: https://www.maxwellleadership.com/co/the-5-levels-of-leadership/
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: https://www.franklincovey.com/courses/the-7-habits/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

What does sustainability really mean in commercial buildings and business today?
How can leaders shift from chasing success to creating long-term significance?
What’s the difference between management and true leadership?
How do entrepreneurs handle stress, overwhelm, and anxiety without burning out?
What role does mentorship play in leadership growth?
How do you evaluate board members, investors, and co-founders wisely?
Why is staying coachable essential at every stage of a career?
How can leaders think about legacy while still building and growing?

Themes:

Leadership vs. management
Sustainability beyond greenwashing
Entrepreneurship and career pivots
Mentorship and coaching
Legacy and long-term impact
Stress, overwhelm, and resilience
Building values-driven companies
Personal growth and self-awareness

What Breaks Founders + How Great Leaders Recover | Phil Neil | S2 E2

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0100

What happens when growth stops shouting and intuition finally gets a voice?

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, host Angela Gill Nelms sits down with serial entrepreneur, investor, and founder advisor Phil Neil for a raw, deeply human conversation about leadership, courage, and the inner work required to scale without breaking yourself or your company.

Phil shares his journey from growing up poor in Quebec to scaling Neobex Medical to a $70M revenue business and achieving an eight-figure exit — and what happened after the success, when identity, burnout, and fear quietly crept in. Together, they unpack why most founders don’t fail because of bad strategy, but because their internal capacity doesn’t evolve with the business.

This episode explores the real difference between leaders and managers, how to handle conflict without destroying culture, and why “letting the world burn” can sometimes be the most responsible leadership move. Phil introduces concepts like fear-based vs. courage-based decision-making, founder psychology, and why intuition — not hustle — is often the missing ingredient in high-stakes leadership.

Learn More About Phil Neil:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippe-neil/
Website: philneil.com

Mentioned in this Episode:

Emergenetics: https://en-gb.emergenetics.com/emea/
Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com/
Diary of a CEO podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDiaryOfACEO
Neobex Medical: https://neobex.ca/en?srsltid=AfmBOoquMMfsaCeKK31l4IJaHklGc6-y33SZk__lkMsFFVc3cXLgEQg2
Founders Compass: https://www.linkedin.com/company/founders-compass-company/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The Discussion Also Tackles Questions Like…

What is the difference between a leader and a manager in real-world practice?
How do successful founders handle failure without letting it define them?
How do you make high-quality decisions under extreme pressure and uncertainty?
How do you handle conflict resolution when culture and trust are on the line?
Why do fear-based decisions feel productive but often stall long-term growth?
How can founders avoid burnout while still scaling aggressively?
What role does intuition play in leadership and strategic decision-making?
How do you know when it’s time to pivot — or to pause?
Why do so many founders outgrow their businesses, or break them entirely?
What does it actually mean to leave a legacy as a leader?

Themes

Founder psychology and identity shifts
Fear-based vs. courage-based decision-making
Leadership vs. management
Conflict resolution and culture fit
Entrepreneurial failure and reinvention
Intuition, stillness, and decision quality
Scaling businesses without burning out
Building trust and cognitive diversity on teams
Redefining success beyond growth metrics
Legacy, purpose, and teaching the next generation

What No One Tells You About Being a Leader | Angela Gill Nelms Q&A | S2 E1

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:56:22 +0100

Episode 50 of the Badass Leaders Podcast marks a major milestone and the kickoff of Season Two. In this unscripted Q&A episode, host Angela Gill Nelms answers real questions submitted by listeners about leadership, burnout, trust, career pivots, and navigating uncertainty at work and in life.

This episode goes beyond theory and tackles leadership as it actually shows up. Messy. Personal. Uncomfortable at times. Angela shares hard-earned lessons from executive leadership, motherhood, career reinvention, and years of managing people through change.

If you are a first-time manager, an experienced leader feeling burned out, or someone trying to build a career with intention instead of fear, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and practical guidance you can apply immediately.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Baader-Meinhof Phenomenon: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/frequency-illusion
Cathleen Quigley’s episode: https://youtu.be/A1FVVQ1hmi4
Brian Rowe’s episode: https://youtu.be/sMWZ5bhTZ0M
More about Angela: https://youtu.be/DgawGLVRPgw
For podcast production services: brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
North American Honey Bee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/
Conflict montage: https://youtu.be/6fQVyixxrpI
https://www.angelagillnelms.com/a-blueprint-for-success-without-burnout-6-easy-steps/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

The discussion also tackles questions…

How do you become a trusted leader instead of trying to be liked?
What should first-time managers focus on to avoid common leadership mistakes?
How do you deal with burnout without guilt or fear of appearing lazy?
How do you manage a negative or demoralizing team member without making things worse?
Can you have a successful career and still prioritize family and personal life?
How do you know when it’s time to say no and let go of commitments?
Should you start a podcast or business, and how do you know if your “why” is strong enough?
How do you celebrate wins without ego while avoiding burnout?
What advice would you give your younger self about career decisions and life pressure?

Themes:

Trust and authenticity in leadership
First-time manager anxiety and confidence
Burnout, rest, and sustainable success
Career pivots and nonlinear paths
Leading through curiosity instead of control
Setting boundaries without guilt
Building community and feedback-driven leadership
Redefining success beyond titles and productivity

Season 1 Wrap-Up + Sneak Peek of Season 2: Be Brave, Be Badass | S1 E49

Angela Gill Nelms — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:50:00 +0100

About This Episode

Season 1 of the Badass Leaders Podcast comes to a close with a heartfelt wrap-up episode from host Angela Gill Nelms. After nearly 50 episodes exploring leadership, grit, and bold action, Angela reflects on the season, thanks listeners for their support, and shares what's next.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

The lessons learned from a year of interviewing extraordinary leaders.
Why saying "yes" to the right opportunities is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Angela's insights on breaking toxic sales stereotypes and fostering high-performing, purpose-driven teams.
The power of failure in entrepreneurship and how it shapes resilience, transformation, and long-term success.
A sneak peek at Season 2, featuring listener-sourced questions and stories of "badass humans" who inspire courage, authenticity, and impact.

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration to push boundaries, this episode is a must-listen before the new season kicks off.

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

What Leaders Get Wrong About Creativity — And How to Fix It | Corean Canty | S1 E48

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:00 +0100

This episode dives into the real, often unspoken emotional terrain of caregiving, leadership burnout, and reclaiming joy at work through the power of play. Angela sits down with Corean Canty, a former media and advertising COO turned executive coach, TEDx speaker coach, and co-founder of Shift to Play. Together, they unpack how anticipatory grief affects caregivers, why so many leaders lose their sense of self, and how play can rebuild creativity, resilience, and connection at work.

You'll hear Corean's personal journey through corporate burnout, caring for her mother with dementia, rediscovering her voice, and helping leaders stop performing the "should self" and step back into authenticity. The conversation also tackles questions many people quietly Google but rarely discuss openly:

The discussion also tackles questions such as:

What is anticipatory grief and how do you cope with it as a caregiver?
How do you know you're burning out before your body forces you to stop?
What does play actually do to your brain and why does it matter at work?
How can you become a better storyteller even if you don't think you're creative?
What's the difference between managing and leading in today's workplace?
How do you resolve conflict when everyone's stuck in their assumptions?
How do you find your true voice if you've spent years being who you "should" be?

This episode is part inspiration, part strategy, part wake-up call. Expect honesty, vulnerability, and real-world tools you can use immediately.

Learn More About Corean:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreancanty/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreancanty/
Website: https://coreancanty.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoreanCanty
Podcast: https://coreancanty.com/podcast/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Shift to Play (Corean's company): https://shifttoplay.com/
Speak More Human (Corean's storytelling/voice coaching work): https://speakmorehuman.com/
Corean's TEDx Talks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEiRT2Rr6ME
Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic: https://www.elizabethgilbert.com/books/big-magic/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Key Takeaways:

Anticipatory grief is real and often hits caregivers long before a loved one passes.
Burnout doesn't start in the workplace — it shows up in the body first. If you're overriding your own needs, your body will eventually force the pause.
Play is not childish — it's neuroscience. It improves creativity, problem-solving, communication, and bonding within teams.
Authenticity beats performance. Most people operate from their "should voice," not their real one.
Storytelling is a leadership tool, not a trend. Humans understand meaning through stories more than data.
Conflict stays stuck when everyone is clinging to assumptions. Curiosity is the exit ramp.
Leaders aren't defined by title. Leadership happens anywhere someone is willing to speak vision, ask bold questions, and take the first step.
You can't lead well if you're not living well. Life design and leadership design are inseparable.

Themes:

Caregiving and anticipatory grief
Leadership burnout and well-being
Play as a professional development tool
Creativity and innovation in the age of AI
Storytelling as communication strategy
Authenticity, identity, and voice
Conflict resolution and curiosity
Personal reinvention and life design

Raising Strong Girls in a Messy World: Mental Health, Boundaries & Body Image | Kate Rope | S1 E47

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:30:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, journalist and author Kate Rope shares the untold story behind her career, her mission to help us all feel strong as humans, and the personal experiences that shaped her bestselling books Strong as a Mother and the forthcoming Strong as a Girl. Kate opens up about what she learned from investigating sexual harassment cases, supporting women and girls inside complex health systems, leading editorial teams, and navigating her own medically challenging pregnancy and postpartum anxiety.

The discussion also tackles questions listeners often search for:

How do you handle conflict resolution as a leader or caregiver?
How do you raise confident girls who trust their own voice?
How do you help kids manage anxiety, anger, or big emotions?
How do parents support a child struggling with body image or eating disorders?
How can caregivers model assertiveness, boundaries, and emotional intelligence?
How do we teach girls to say no, manage friendships, and avoid people-pleasing?

Kate brings real-world examples from her journalism career, her interviews with girls across the country, and her own lived experiences as a mother and mental-health advocate. This conversation is a strategic guide for parents, leaders, educators, and anyone committed to raising the next generation of strong, self-aware young women.

Learn More About Kate Rope:

Mentioned in this Episode:

Strong as a Mother: How to Be Happy, Healthy, and (Most Importantly) Sane From Pregnancy to Parenthood
Strong as a Girl: Your Guide to Raising Girls Who Know, Stand Up for, and Take Care of Themselves
Brian Rowe's interview on the Badass Leaders Podcast: https://youtu.be/sMWZ5bhTZ0M?si=y5tzoH6t4AnNoiga
RAN's interview about eating disorders: https://youtu.be/JH5PiBB6wBw?si=xcpwsLtCNGJKK5kM

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Key Takeaways:

Girls already possess intuitive wisdom—the job of caregivers and leaders is to help them hear it, not override it.
Listening is a leadership skill, whether you're guiding a team or supporting a child through a difficult moment.
People-pleasing is learned early, and girls are often taught to accommodate before they're taught to self-advocate.
"No" is a complete sentence, and learning it young prevents burnout, toxic relationships, and career stagnation later.
Early conversations matter—teaching boundaries, assertiveness, and emotional awareness at age six makes adolescence easier.
Conflict resolution requires pausing and asking more questions, not rushing to fix things.
Eating disorders are often misunderstood, and early intervention is essential—they're metabolic and biological, not simply psychological.
Caregivers need support too—your own healing and emotional intelligence directly influence the young people you lead.
Leaders and parents should prioritize repair over perfection. Mistakes are part of the process. What you do afterward matters more.

Themes:

Raising resilient and confident girls
Emotional intelligence for kids and caregivers
Leadership through listening rather than control
Boundary-setting and assertive communication
Rejecting people-pleasing and perfectionism
Mental health in childhood and adolescence
Eating disorders, body image, and early warning signs
The intersection of caregiving and leadership
Storytelling as a tool for human connection
Strength, self-trust, and navigating difficult emotions

Georgia Tech’s Innovation Engine: AI, Biomedical Engineering, & What Universities Get Wrong | S1 E46

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:15:00 +0100

Real Stories, Real Leadership: Georgia Tech Alumni

This episode features a deep, surprisingly personal conversation with two Georgia Tech powerhouses whose careers span biomedical engineering, venture investing, university leadership, and global innovation. They unpack what it looks like to build teams that solve real-world problems, how diversity fuels breakthrough ideas, and why Georgia Tech became a national model for AI adoption long before most institutions were ready.

Watch Full Interviews Here:

Angela & Gia: https://youtu.be/vh69c_f4Sv8?si=_lP7WQOfiSV_5Iqk
Beth: https://youtu.be/JXrICZjyhec?si=hdmHm8jvCMJOHh6y
Cathleen: https://youtu.be/A1FVVQ1hmi4?si=wCqhllwwK5okpp5b
Eric: https://youtu.be/mMCg-aW8eoQ?si=_zfZeRfn595LBGlP
Kofi: https://youtu.be/5CKPG7nfwww?si=R8nOvyLBB54jloSO
Nassir: https://youtu.be/ex1hDKRPrxg?si=JpImeGf_15aKZnrO
Sherry: https://youtu.be/lrFVN8oN0g0?si=YqcI2RLK2JLU-duy
Raheem: https://youtu.be/qab7tPVmWng?si=xsYz-g956wRPNzoh

Mentioned in This Episode

Georgia Tech: https://www.gatech.edu/
Emory University: https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html
Biolocity: https://biolocity.gatech.edu/
Emory BioFoundry: https://www.ebfi.org/
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta: https://www.choa.org/
Georgia Tech AI Maker Space: https://coe.gatech.edu/academics/ai-for-engineering/ai-makerspace
Shawn Jones, Georgia Tech Quarterback: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shawn_Jones_(gridiron_football)#:~:text=Jones%20is%20arguably%20one%20of,4%20years%20of%20collegiate%20play.
Wayne Clough, former Georgia Tech President: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G._Wayne_Clough

The discussion also tackles questions people often search for, including:

How does Georgia Tech approach AI in admissions and engineering education?
What makes biomedical engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory so influential?
How do major universities build a culture of innovation instead of bureaucracy?
What does "return on investment" really mean in early-stage healthtech and translational science?
How can diversity and inclusion directly improve engineering and research outcomes
How do leaders manage autonomy, accountability, and innovation at large institutions?

Key Takeaways

Georgia Tech's early, unapologetic commitment to AI wasn't a gamble — it was a strategic pivot that's now shaping national standards.
True innovation requires proximity: engineers belong in ICUs, clinicians belong in labs, and teams must literally see each other's world.
Diversity isn't a slogan here. It shows up as better problem framing, richer solutions, and expanded opportunity.
Return on investment in academic innovation isn't just dollars — it's follow-on funding, regulatory milestones, and the long-term shaping of founders and researchers.
Autonomy is essential. Leaders who expect innovation must give people room to own decisions and be accountable for them.
The Georgia Tech–Emory ecosystem works because it prioritizes translation over theory; projects move, pivot, or end quickly.
Exposure changes trajectories. A single visit to campus, a commencement speech, or a STEM Saturday can alter how someone sees their future.

Themes

Innovation culture inside major research institutions
Diversity as a driver of engineering and scientific breakthroughs
AI adoption and ethics in higher education
Translational science and commercialization in healthcare
Leadership, autonomy, and accountability at scale
Resilience, reinvention, and nontraditional career paths
The power of community impact and early exposure to STEM

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/ Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest? If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

Leaving the 80-Hour Grind for a Life You Actually Want | Ed Morgan | S1 E45

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:30:00 +0100

Edward "Bean" Morgan joins the Badass Leaders Podcast for a candid conversation about leadership, burnout, and what it takes to walk away from a career that no longer aligns with your values. After decades in the restaurant and hospitality industry, working 80 to 90 hours a week with little recognition, Ed made a dramatic pivot into beekeeping. Today he manages more than 100 hives across Atlanta, teaches hands-on beekeeping classes, and mentors the next generation of beekeepers and entrepreneurs.

This episode explores how Ed built a thriving business from scratch, how he found his voice as a leader, and the lessons he now applies to business growth, community building, and resilient decision-making. His story is a blueprint for anyone ready to change direction, reclaim their time, and lead on their own terms.

The discussion also tackles questions such as:

What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
How do you recognize burnout before it derails your wellbeing?
How do you pivot careers when you have a mortgage, a family, and no safety net?
What can beekeeping teach us about leadership, communication, and teamwork?
How do you navigate toxic work environments and advocate for yourself?
What does conflict resolution look like when you're responsible for people, operations, and outcomes?

Learn More About Ed Morgan:

Facebook: Edward "Bean" Morgan,
Instagram: Atlanta Bee Company
LinkedIn: Edward Morgan
Website: Beansbeesandhoney.com
Airbnb experience: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/279263

Mentioned in this Episode:

Don "The Fat Bee Man": https://www.youtube.com/@fineshooter
Georgia Beekeepers Association: https://gabeekeeping.com/
Metro Atlanta Beekeepers: https://metroatlantabeekeepers.org/

Themes

Leadership vs. management
Career reinvention
Burnout and wellbeing
Entrepreneurship and business building
Authenticity and self-advocacy
Mentorship and community
Beekeeping as a leadership model
Conflict resolution and communication
Diversity, identity, and navigating inequitable work environment

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

From the Yankees to Flea Markets—The Leadership Lessons No One Expects | Dr. John Tuders | S1 E44

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:55:00 +0100

In this episode, Dr. John Tuders breaks down what it truly means to lead with courage, clarity, and integrity in a world that often rewards shortcuts. He shares the lessons that shaped him, from growing up in Queens to becoming a professor and trusted voice in leadership. You'll hear real stories, practical insights, and a grounded perspective on trust, culture, conflict, and personal growth. If you're serious about becoming a stronger, more self-aware leader, this conversation will push you in all the right ways.

Questions answered during this conversation:

What is the real difference between a leader and a manager?
How do you build trust in a way that actually influences people?
Why does culture matter more than strategy when scaling a team?
How should leaders approach conflict resolution without damaging relationships?
What role do values play in modern leadership, and why do they matter?
How can leaders stay authentic while still driving performance and accountability?
What does it take to become a more self-aware, human-centered leader?
How can leaders grow personally and professionally without losing who they are?

Learn More About Dr. John Tuders:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-john-tuders-dba-7b164a20/

Mentioned in this Episode:

Kristi's episode: https://youtu.be/_beumKc6pDI?si=3OQ5fXDB5eDdmXXR
Raheem's episode: https://youtu.be/qab7tPVmWng?si=g3KXAxtppBkDurq0
Anne Chow's episode: https://youtu.be/JrgdCCOwkG0?si=LafOxR7Y3QZWwhel
Enneagram: https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/how-the-enneagram-system-works/
Radical Candor by Kim Scott: https://www.radicalcandor.com/
The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo: https://www.juliezhuo.com/book/manager.html
Uncommon by Tony Dungy: https://www.amazon.com/Uncommon-Finding-Your-Path-Significance/dp/1414326823
Relational Intelligence by Dharius Daniels: https://dhariusdaniels.com/rq/
Boundaries by Henry Cloud andJohn Townsend: https://www.amazon.com/Boundaries-Updated-Expanded-When-Control/dp/0310351804

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

AI in Higher Education: Lessons from Georgia Tech | Raheem Beyah | S1 E43

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 11:30:00 +0100

In this episode of Badass Leaders, Raheem Beyah, Georgia Tech's Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs joins Angela to talk about innovation, mentorship, and the evolution of leadership in higher education. Born and raised in Atlanta, Raheem shares how his grandmother's biscuits and a childhood love of video games first sparked his curiosity for technology—and how that curiosity became a lifelong mission to empower others through education and innovation.

From Georgia Tech's groundbreaking AI Makerspace to national initiatives in cybersecurity and access to STEM education, Raheem reveals what it takes to lead at scale without losing sight of people. Listeners will walk away with fresh insights on resilience, mentorship, and building legacy through service, integrity, and human connection. Topics Covered

The story behind how biscuits and video games shaped Raheem's early path
What the Atlanta Public Schools taught him about resilience and purpose
The difference between a leader and a manager—and when to be both
How to approach conflict with empathy and strategy
Building cultures of trust, innovation, and accountability in large organizations
The vision behind Georgia Tech's AI Makerspace and AI-driven education
Why mentorship and access remain the cornerstones of true leadership
What "leaving a legacy" really means in higher education

Learn More About Raheem Beyah:

Mentioned in this Episode:

Holy Shift: Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow: https://holyshiftresearch.transistor.fm/
AI Makerspace at Georgia Tech: https://coe.gatech.edu/academics/ai-for-engineering/ai-makerspace
Bud Moeller's episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMA1L2B5xsM&t=179s
Building Your A-Team blog: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/building-your-a-team/

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:

At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/

Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

What the Most Impactful Leaders Say About Leaving a Legacy | S1 E42

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0100

What does it really mean to leave a legacy? In this Badass Leaders Podcast "Best Of" episode, we bring together powerful insights from leaders who are redefining what impact looks like.

Together, these guests offer perspectives that challenge traditional ideas of success and invite us to think bigger about purpose, service, and the mark we leave behind.

If you're ready to build something that lasts longer than your title or tenure, this episode is for you.

Tune in to explore:

How today's leaders define and live their legacies
Why gratitude and service are at the heart of lasting impact
Practical ways to lead with purpose—starting now

Learn more from these guests by watching their full episodes:

Aimee Christian: https://youtu.be/Ukjz6NJJfUI?si=rMg0FeYDdRY8SZu9
Andrew Dingee: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eR-ui05Or0&t=15s
Bud Moeller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMA1L2B5xsM&t=142s
Caitlin Johnson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX8VIcCiaZA
Gia Ganesh: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vh69c_f4Sv8&t=33s
Karen Valencic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8X2S2-8vQI&t=2949s
Dr. Kofi Smith: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CKPG7nfwww&t=12s
Dr. John Tuders: Coming out soon!

Produced by: The AGN Group

Host: Angela Gill Nelms

Producer: Katie Hart

Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.

Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Want to be a Podcast Guest? If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

From Veteran to CEO: Reinventing Yourself After PTSD | Suzy Wraines | Badass Leaders Podcast| S1 E41

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0100

How Trauma, Mindset, and Leadership Intersect: A Powerful Conversation with Suzy Wraines and Angela Gill Nelms

What happens when a military veteran, healthcare professional, and entrepreneur sits down with a leadership expert to unpack the truth about resilience, trauma, and purpose? In this powerful conversation, Angela Gill Nelms and Suzy Wraines dive deep into the real-life journey of healing, self-discovery, and the mindset shifts that define modern leadership.

From growing up in Alaska to serving in the military and navigating the emotional toll of transitioning to civilian life, Suzy shares lessons on identity, self-awareness, and the cost of compassion fatigue—especially in veterinary medicine and healthcare entrepreneurship. Together, they explore how trauma impacts leadership, why regulating trauma isn’t the same as resolving it, and how energy alignment influences success and relationships.

The discussion also tackles questions many leaders and entrepreneurs are asking:
- How does trauma affect decision-making and leadership?
- What’s the real difference between regulating vs. resolving trauma?
- How can healthcare professionals transition into entrepreneurship without burning out?
- Why is self-awareness the foundation of authentic leadership?
- How can accountability and structure accelerate growth in your first year of business?

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, veteran, or emerging entrepreneur, this conversation reveals how to build resilience, reclaim identity, and lead with authenticity. It’s a must-listen for anyone asking how to turn trauma into transformation and lead with courage, clarity, and compassion.

Key Takeaways:
- How Trauma Impacts Leadership—and How to Heal From It
- Why Self-Awareness Is the Most Underrated Leadership Skill
- The Hard Truth About Transitioning From Military to Civilian Life
- What Every Entrepreneur Gets Wrong in Their First Year
- The Difference Between Regulating and Resolving Trauma
- Why Compassion Fatigue Is Silently Burning Out Healthcare Workers
- How to Build a Strong Foundation for Long-Term Success
- How Curiosity Without Judgment Unlocks Personal Growth
- The Power of Authenticity: Why True Leaders Put Self-Care First
- How Accountability and Community Beat Entrepreneur Isolation

Themes: trauma healing, leadership, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurship, resilience, personal growth, veterans’ transition, healthcare burnout

Mentioned this Episode:
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: https://www.amazon.es/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
- Trauma Energetics Coaching — Suzy’s certification and current modality

Learn more about Suzy at:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzywraines/
- Website: http://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@startingabusinesssimplified
- Podcast: https://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com/podcast
- Free Video Series: https://www.startingabusinesssimplified.com/5-steps-landing

Keywords:
resilience, military experience, PTSD, self-discovery, entrepreneurship, healing, Alaska, identity, trauma, leadership, mindset, leadership, entrepreneurship, trauma, health coaching, veterinary medicine, self-awareness, trauma energetics, personal healing, healthcare professionals, healthcare coaching, business structure, GAP planning, accountability, authenticity, conflict resolution, energy alignment, leadership, personal growth, entrepreneurship

About Angela:
Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time.Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

@AngelaGillNelms

#TraumaHealing
#LeadershipPodcast
#Resilience
#MindsetShift
#EmotionalIntelligence
#VeteranStories
#HealthcareBurnout
#EntrepreneurMindset
#SelfAwareness
#AuthenticLeadership
#PTSDRecovery
#PersonalGrowthJourney
#WomenEntrepreneurs
#EnergyAlignment
#compassionfatigue

@startingabusinesssimplified

Prison to Purpose: How 30-Years of Incarceration Turned Into an AWS Career | Brian Rowe | S1 E40

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In 2010, Brian Rowe was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for a nonviolent drug conspiracy. Most people would have seen that as the end. Brian saw it as a turning point.

In this episode, he shares how he transformed pain into purpose, turned crisis into opportunity, and rebuilt his life to become a business catalyst, AWS Partner, and community leader.

Brian’s story is a masterclass in resilience and leadership—from surviving “Bloody Beaumont” to redefining success through service, innovation, and mentorship. If you’ve ever faced adversity and wondered how to turn it into something bigger, this conversation will change how you see what’s possible.

Learn More About Brian Rowe:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16VLBEirGK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Instagram:@brianrowe777
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-rowe78
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@brianrowe777
- Twitter / X: https://x.com/iamblrowe
- Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-power-shift-podcast/id1803526838
- 📘 Buy the Book: Crisis: Rage, Reflection, Reality - https://www.lulu.com/shop/brian-rowe/crisis-rage-reflection-reality/hardcover/product-q6dnpyk.html

Key Themes:
- Redemption and Second Chances: How Brian’s 30-year sentence became the turning point that defined his life’s mission.
- Mindset and Resilience: Why “stop fighting to come home and start preparing to come home” became his life philosophy.
- Leadership Through Adversity: Lessons learned in prison about compassion, discipline, and influencing others through service.
- Faith and Grit: How spirituality, journaling, and declaring self-worth shaped his transformation.
- The Power of Mentorship: How figures like a high school janitor and prison mentor planted seeds that would later bloom into leadership.
- From Felon to Founder: Brian’s journey from federal inmate to Amazon-recognized business catalyst and public speaker.
- Criminal Justice Reform: Inside his work with FAM (Families Against Mandatory Minimums) and his advocacy on Capitol Hill.
- Creativity as Healing: The story behind Crisis: Rage, Reflection, Reality—a collaborative book of art and essays from incarcerated men.
- Love in Unlovable Environments: Learning to lead, love, and serve while behind bars.
- The Badass Mindset: Why resilience, courage, and authenticity define true leadership.

Questions Answered in This Episode:
- How do you rebuild your life after prison?
- What is the difference between refining and defining your past?
- How can trauma, faith, and mindset turn a crisis into opportunity?
- What lessons can business leaders learn from surviving prison?
- How do you find purpose when everything feels lost?
- What’s the secret to resilience in leadership and life?
- How can one person’s story create systemic change in justice reform?
- What does it really mean to be a “Badass Leader”?
- What is the CARES Act clemency program?
- How to turn trauma into purpose?
- Resilience and mindset lessons from prison to leadership
- How to overcome failure and find purpose again?
- What defines a true badass leader?

Keywords:
resilience stories, prison reform, leadership podcast, criminal justice reform, mindset transformation, badass leadership, personal growth, clemency success stories, second chances, overcoming adversity, faith and grit, trauma healing, self-awareness in leadership, inspirational podcast, rehabilitation stories, crisis to opportunity, Angela Gill Nelms podcast, Brian Rowe interview, entrepreneurship after prison, purpose-driven leadership

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website: theagngroup.com

Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

@brianrowe777

#Resilience
#RedemptionStory
#LeadershipPodcast
#SecondChances
#CriminalJusticeReform
#MindsetShift
#OvercomingAdversity
#FaithAndGrit
#BadassLeaders
#PurposeDrivenLeadership
#CrisisToOpportunity
#EntrepreneurAfterPrison
#TransformationJourney
#PrisonReform
#AngelaGillNelms
#BrianRowe

Brain Cancer Breakthrough to $100M Medical Device | Dr. Nassir Mokarram’s Innovation | S1 E39

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In this thought-provoking conversation, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Dr. Nasir Mokarram to explore what it takes to translate groundbreaking science into real-world solutions. From developing a tumor-guiding medical device for brain cancer (GBM) to shaping the future of venture investments at Emory University, Dr. Mokarram shares his journey from researcher to entrepreneur to investor—and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Together, they discuss how to bridge the gap between academic discovery and commercialization, the role of AI in healthcare innovation, and the future of universities, leadership, and entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing world. This episode is a masterclass in innovation, resilience, and visionary leadership.

Key Topics:
- Brain Cancer Breakthroughs: How a revolutionary device guides tumors out of the brain to enable continuous treatment and monitoring.
- Translational Science: What it really takes to move medical research from Nature publications to human clinical trials.
- University Innovation Models: How academia can evolve to reward scientists for commercialization, not just publication.
- Entrepreneurship in Academia: Why not every scientist should be a CEO—and how to build the right team for success.
- Intellectual Property & Funding: Why IP protection is critical for attracting investors and translating discoveries to market.
- AI in Healthcare: How artificial intelligence could cut costs, accelerate trials, and reshape the biotech landscape.
- The Future of Higher Education: Will universities survive the rise of ChatGPT, TikTok learning, and problem-based education?
- Leadership vs. Management: The key traits that separate visionary leaders from effective managers.
- Diversity, Inclusion & Innovation: Why different worldviews and experiences make for stronger, more creative teams.
- Building Atlanta’s Innovation Ecosystem: Why Georgia Tech, Emory, and the South are the next frontier for biotech and venture growth.

Questions Answered:
How can universities reward innovation and entrepreneurship?
How can AI lower the cost of drug and device development?
Why is IP protection essential for healthcare startups?
How can academia and industry work together more effectively?
What can Atlanta learn from Silicon Valley’s startup evolution?
How do we train the next generation of entrepreneurial scientists?
What does the future of higher education look like in the AI era?

Today’s guest is Dr. Nassir Mokarram—an academic leader, biotech entrepreneur, and innovation strategist shaping the future of science and commercialization.

He is the co-founder and inventor behind Exvade Bioscience, the Executive Director of the Emory BioFoundry Institute, an Associate Professor at Emory, and Director of Venture Capital Investments at Emory Investment Management.

Nassir works at the intersection of biotechnology, university innovation, entrepreneurship, and venture investing, where he’s helping redefine how academic discoveries become real-world impact.

Based in Atlanta, he’s passionate about unlocking the region’s innovation potential and building a stronger ecosystem where research, industry, and leadership come together to create meaningful change. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nassir-mokarram-5b966017/

Mentioned in this episode:
Biolocity (Georgia Tech x Emory): https://biolocity.gatech.edu/
Investment: The Last Liberal Art by Robert Hagstrom: https://amzn.to/3WCJmZT
Golden Goose Award – Celebrating basic research that transforms society. https://www.goldengooseaward.org/
Nature Materials – Journal where the Tumor Monorail research was published: https://www.nature.com/nmat/
BBC Article: “Tumor Monorail” – Coverage of the research. https://www.sciencefocus.com/the-human-body/tumour-monorail-on-the-fast-track-for-human-trials

Keywords:
biomedical innovation, brain cancer research, GBM device, translational medicine, entrepreneurship in academia, Emory University, Georgia Tech innovation, AI in healthcare, leadership podcast, university commercialization, intellectual property, venture capital in biotech, startup ecosystem Atlanta, academic entrepreneurship, medical device innovation, Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms, Nasir Mokarram, higher education future, leadership vs management, biotech funding strategy

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website: theagngroup.com

About Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.
@georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE @emoryuniversity @biolocityinnovation @BMEGeorgiaTechEmory

The #1 Mistake Leaders Make in Reputation Management (and How to Avoid It)| Aimee Christian | S1 E38

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:00:00 +0200

What happens when a high-achieving biopharma executive steps off the corporate ladder to build a life driven by freedom, impact, and authenticity? In this episode, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Dr. Aimee Christian—communications strategist, professor, and nonprofit CEO—for a candid conversation about career reinvention, leadership courage, burnout recovery, and designing a purpose-filled portfolio career.

After 25 years in global pharma, Aimee now leads a multidimensional career as a Boston University Professor, President of the Massachusetts Society for Medical Research, and CEO of YES Communications. She opens up about what it really takes to leave safety for possibility, balance multiple passions, and build a career that supports your whole life—not just your job title.

If you’re exploring career pivots, leadership growth, burnout, women in leadership, or redefining success, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Topics:
- The Power of the Portfolio Career: Why designing a multifaceted career can unlock freedom, fulfillment, and growth.
- Leadership & Communication: How direct communication and radical candor can strengthen trust and elevate teams.
- Career Reinvention: What to do when your leadership style no longer fits your environment.
From Burnout to Balance: How calendar management, boundaries, and transparency keep you energized.
- Crisis Communication 101: Why every company needs a playbook before chaos strikes.
- Trust in the Age of Misinformation: How leaders can earn credibility and build integrity in an AI-driven world.
- Leading vs. Managing: The mindset shifts that transform good managers into visionary leaders.
- Bravery at Work: How to know when to walk away, how to ask for what you want, and how to own your voice as a woman leader.

Questions Answered:
- How do you know when it’s time to walk away from a corporate career?
- What is a “portfolio career,” and how do you start one?
- How do women navigate being called “aggressive” instead of “assertive”?
- What’s the biggest mistake leaders make in crisis communication?
- How can you avoid burnout while managing multiple professional roles?
- How can AI make leaders more effective—without losing critical thinking?
- What’s the real difference between managing and leading?
- How can leaders rebuild trust in a world full of misinformation?

Key Takeaways:
- Be brave enough to outgrow spaces that can’t hold your potential.
- Transparency builds trust and opportunity—say what you want out loud.
- Preparation and structure create freedom, not restriction.
- Not every issue is a crisis—learn to discern before you burn out.
- AI is a sidekick, not a replacement for human integrity or judgment.
- Leaders elevate others’ ideas; managers execute tasks.
- There is always a solution—you just haven’t found it yet.

Learn more about Aimee at:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-christian-phd/
- Website: https://www.yescommunications.net/
- Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLb0PLQrgJk @PRovokeMedia
- Yes Communications: https://www.yescommunications.net/

Mentioned in this Episode:
- Start With Why by Simon Sinek
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott
- The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
- A Bit of Optimism with Simon Sinek
- Provoke Media Podcast (episode featuring Aimee Christian): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLb0PLQrgJk
- Women in Leadership Podcast (episode featuring Aimee Christian): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wil-talk-women-in-leadership-talk/id1534719698?i=1000673593096
- Holy Shift: Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow (hosted by Angela Gill Nelms): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrvOSuVFvyE&list=PLMTX0UQNGP1eczLJWP0uWZY3ImFr1rwHS
- Aimee’s chicken recipe: https://amateurprochef.com/2025/09/10/chicken-lababdar-2/#wpzoom-recipe-card

Keywords:

leadership podcast, portfolio career, career reinvention, women in leadership, reputation management, crisis communication, avoiding burnout, professional growth, authenticity in leadership, AI in business, bravery at work, assertive women leaders, direct communication, career redesign, purpose-driven leadership, Boston University, Angela Gill Nelms

Search Queries:

How to reinvent your career after burnout
What is a portfolio career?
How to communicate like a leader
Crisis communication tips for executives
Women in leadership: assertive vs. aggressive
How to rebuild trust in an AI world
How to create a fulfilling career after 40
How to prevent burnout as a high achiever

Produced by: The AGN Group
Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Website:
theagngroup.com
www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest? Email brave@angelagillnelms.com. @AngelaGillNelms

The Brutal Truth You Need to Hear - Manager vs Leader | S1 E37

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 11:30:00 +0200

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, we dive deep into the critical differences between managers and leaders. Our guests explore how authentic leadership is about influence, empathy, and empowering people, while management often focuses on processes, outcomes, and tasks. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, running a team, or building your own organization, this conversation will help you reflect on your leadership style and understand the impact you have on those around you.

Key Topics Covered:

Defining the difference between a manager and a leader.
The role of empathy and emotional intelligence in effective leadership.
How to foster followers vs employees in your team.
Stories of leadership lessons learned from both mentors and challenging managers.
The concept of the "shamager" vs. the unicorn leader and their impact on work-life balance.
Practical insights into servant leadership and inspiring your team.
Understanding the vision vs execution continuum in organizational leadership.
Why leadership is more than positional authority—it's about influence, trust, and guiding growth.

Watch the full interviews from this episode

Bud Moeller: https://youtu.be/DMA1L2B5xsM?si=sYLW-5a85Iha8bV-
Daniel Steere: https://youtu.be/3ony669Dmy4?si=1i7Nye651ZFqbW2U
Eric Doherty: https://youtu.be/mMCg-aW8eoQ?si=A-iM2-9PkC_xNxM3
Jacob Karnes: https://youtu.be/C3mpwikZWXw?si=rQiGE_-ItM46uuVn
Karen Valencic: https://youtu.be/Q8X2S2-8vQI?si=xfu62KSJSaX0HAL4
Dr. Kofi Smith: https://youtu.be/5CKPG7nfwww?si=ImnBcZ9eGZQcC0lJ
Kristi Straw: https://youtu.be/_beumKc6pDI?si=8Fac4UdthyC_hyLa
Mark Williams: https://youtu.be/RVhQK9FT0hI?si=8KE2Lkd8Cxn1RdHq
Sherry Farrugia: https://youtu.be/lrFVN8oN0g0?si=3ErXgYAlL5YUw83W
Sophie Badré: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eK8eBtQMtM&t=8s
Steve Garraty: https://youtu.be/wXy99x8eDBA?si=NQ3eTEtdmUcY8qo4

About Angela: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.

Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at hello@TheAGNGroup.com to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

How to Crush Imposter Syndrome & Lead With Confidence | Samuel Osborne and David Graf | S1 E36

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:30:00 +0200

Why do so many high performers still feel like frauds even when they’re crushing it?

In this powerful episode of The Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Self Worth Sam Osborne @selfworthsam and attorney-turned-coach David Graf for a raw, funny, and deeply clarifying conversation about imposter syndrome, values, self-worth, burnout, conflict, and modern leadership.

Sam shares how a former teacher, entertainer, and human beatboxer turned crippling imposter syndrome into a 30-day self-worth framework used by leaders worldwide.

David reveals how he hit burnout at 29, walked away from a prestigious law career, rebuilt his life through meditation, and now coaches executives through composure-based conflict resolution.

Together, they break down:
- why managers control while leaders influence
- how values—not goals—drive real leadership
- how childhood conditioning shapes our leadership style
- why overthinking is the #1 killer of executive presence
- practical tools to handle conflict without losing your cool

If you’re tired of leading from fear, burnout, or “performing” confidence, this episode is your permission slip to lead with clarity, courage, and self-worth.

Key Questions Answered:
- What’s the real difference between a manager and a leader?
- How does imposter syndrome affect high-level professionals?
- How do you define your true values—and lead from them?
- How do leaders stay composed during conflict?
- How can overthinkers become decisive leaders?
- What does “self-worth vs self-esteem” really mean?
- How does meditation impact leadership and relationships?
- How can leaders stop taking everything so personally?

Learn More About Samuel Osborne and David Graf:

LINKEDIN
Sam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-osborne-usa/
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-graf-008781258/

WEBSITES:
Sam https://selfworthsam.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/@UCM31OL-JEtxRud6zb5isMxA
David https://www.liferaftcoaching.com/

BOOKS:
Sam https://www.amazon.com.au/How-Beat-Imposter-Syndrome-Confident/dp/B09L4NV136?ref_=ast_author_dp
David: https://www.amazon.com.au/Meeting-Martial-Arts-Approaches-Contentious-ebook/dp/B0FH79LH8W/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SOS9D5N2P77O&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.D4hyuNXbFreXqmTQ6oKCSsH8bOKh2xYPNm_Pyx8maRsIqFDPZ7x2h4DdSmR2s6DAFz47jNWm80dnUo2uzU-f-siBefynEE8bWuOyifv_kpw.A5aaXdm4hgFv_RQidWMB6j6INVCnTc5oKVJ1DVge8YI&dib_tag=se&keywords=meeting+martial+arts+david&qid=1754326425&s=books&sprefix=meeting+martial+arts+david%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1

Mentioned in This Episode
Dr. John Demartini – Values Determination Process (referenced by Sam Osborne): https://drdemartini.com
Guided meditation resources (Spotify – 20-minute spoken word meditations)
Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend (mentioned by Angela Gill Nelms)
The Bhagavad Gita (classic Hindu text, referenced by Sam Osborne)
Make Work, Not Suck (hosted by Daniel Steere, mentioned by Angela)

Themes:
Manager vs Leader
Imposter Syndrome
Self-Worth & Emotional Intelligence
Conflict Resolution & Difficult Conversations
Leadership Identity
Values-Driven Leadership
Burnout & Stress Regulation
Authenticity in Leadership
Personal Growth for High Performers

Keywords: manager vs leader, leadership vs management, imposter syndrome, self-worth, self-worth sam, sam osborne, david graf coach, leadership podcast, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, burnout recovery, values-based leadership, authentic leadership, overthinking leaders, nervous system regulation, meditation for leaders, workplace conflict, personal growth, executive presence, angela gill nelms podcast

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com @AngelaGillNelms

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

#Leadership
#ManagerVsLeader
#ImposterSyndrome
#SelfWorth
#BadassLeadersPodcast
#AuthenticLeadership
#ConflictResolution
#EmotionalIntelligence
#BurnoutRecovery
#ValuesBasedLeadership
#MindsetShift
#ExecutivePresence
#PersonalGrowth

How to Handle Power and Ego in the Boardroom | Jonathan Bennett | S1 E35

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 11:30:00 +0200

If you’ve ever wished leaders would stop acting like robots and start acting like humans, this episode is your new masterclass.

Leadership advisor, entrepreneur, and board director Jonathan Bennett joins Angela to unpack the real skills great leaders rely on: conflict resolution, culture-building, deep listening, emotional intelligence, and how to actually show up as a human in the room — even when things get messy.

You’ll learn the tools Jonathan uses with executives around the world, including:
• How to handle difficult conversations without freezing, shutting down, or blowing things up
• Why “what have you already tried?” is the most powerful leadership question you’re not asking
• How emotional triggers, somatic reactions, and old patterns shape how we lead
• Why good governance is relational — not just procedural
• How to run better meetings, build trust, and create space for real connection
• What young leaders can do right now to build board experience
• Why most conflict isn’t actually about you (and how to use that to your advantage)

Key Questions Answered:
How do great leaders handle conflict without making things worse?
How can you stay curious instead of defensive in hard conversations?
What’s the difference between emotional triggers and actual problems?
How do somatic reactions (freeze/fight/flight) impact leadership?
What does healthy conflict look like in teams and boardrooms?
How can leaders build trust and psychological safety?
How do you develop deep listening skills and avoid hijacking meetings?
What makes a board effective — and what destroys its culture?
How can new leaders get their first board seat?
Why is “what have you already tried?” a game-changing question for managers?

This episode cuts the fluff and gets real about leadership, culture, conflict, courage, and becoming the kind of leader people actually want to follow.

Key Themes:
Human-centered leadership
Conflict resolution and communication
Deep listening skills
Emotional intelligence for executives
Somatic responses and self-awareness
Trust, culture, and psychological safety
Governance and relational board leadership
Coaching, advising & navigating hard situations
Decision-making and meeting effectiveness
Leadership development and self-growth

Learn More About Jonathan:
Podcast: https://clearlythen.com/listen
Website: clearlythen.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/

Mentioned in this Episode:
A League of Their Own (film) – quote “It’s supposed to be hard. If it were easy, everyone would do it.”
Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast – popular business quote
AI note-taking tools: Fathom (Angela’s mention): https://www.fathom.ai/
AI note-taking tools: Granola (Jonathan’s mention): https://www.granola.ai/
Angela’s blog about hobbies: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/why-doing-many-things-at-once-might-be-the-smartest-move-you-ever-make/

Keywords:
leadership skills
conflict resolution for leaders
emotional intelligence at work
how to handle difficult conversations
leadership communication
deep listening skills
culture and leadership
leadership coaching
executive coaching tools
how to lead meetings
leadership psychology
building trust at work
board governance
relational governance
leadership advice
leadership vs management
psychological safety
leadership development tools
becoming a better leader
how to show up authentically
conflict management strategies
#Leadership #ExecutiveCoaching #ConflictResolution #CultureMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #BoardGovernance #HumanCenteredLeadership #BadassLeadersPodcast #AngelaGillNelms #JonathanBennett

Social Media Channels:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass/podcasts
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73Dg8OQ7SqtGtSiCWQUfLB?si=c17c0f1abe29446f
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/badass-leaders-podcast-brave-hearts-brave-conversations/id1788987881
Audible: https://www.audible.com/podcast/Badass-Leaders-Podcast-Brave-Hearts-Brave-Conversations-Badass-Leaders/B0DS2CQL9V?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

From Kidnapping Survivor to Badass Leader | STRIPES & Dr. Crystal Simon | S1 E34

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0200

Where Grit Meets Grace: Trauma, Leadership & Reinvention | Live at STRIPES with Dr. Crystal Simon
What happens when two women in the medtech industry sit down to discuss trauma, leadership, reinvention, and the harsh reality of career transitions? In this live STRIPES conversation, Dr. Crystal Simon interviews Angela Gill Nelms about the stories behind her grit, the grace that helped her heal, and the mindset required to lead through the hardest seasons.

Angela opens up about surviving a kidnapping, rebuilding her life, overcoming imposter syndrome, leading companies, navigating layoffs, personal branding, conflict resolution, and how to build an A-Team that accelerates your growth. Together, they unpack the emotional, professional, and deeply human sides of leadership in medtech, entrepreneurship, and beyond.

Whether you're navigating trauma, experiencing a career shift, building resilience, or stepping into a bigger leadership role—this episode will give you tools, courage, and perspective. This is where grit meets grace.

Watch this if you want to learn:
- How trauma shapes leadership—and how to heal while leading
- How women can lead without mimicking male leadership styles
- The A-Team model: boardroom, locker room, foxhole
- How to navigate layoffs with clarity, grace, and strategy
- How to speak up in difficult rooms without overthinking
- How personal branding drives opportunity and alignment
- Why mindset and emotional regulation matter more than perfection
- The power of curiosity, “tell me more,” and the 5-second rule
- How to de-escalate conflict and build trust across cultures
- What “be brave, be badass” looks like in real life

If you’re a woman in medtech, a leader in transition, or someone healing from hard things while trying to make big things happen—this episode is for you.

KEY THEMES:
- Trauma-informed leadership
- Women in medtech
- Grit vs grace
- Imposter syndrome
- Layoffs as catalysts
- Conflict resolution & emotional intelligence
- Leadership authenticity
- Personal branding
- Resilience & mindset
- The A-Team (boardroom, foxhole, locker room)
- Handling hard conversations
- Overcoming perfectionism
- Cross-cultural leadership
- Career reinvention
- Boundaries & burnout prevention

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED:
How does trauma shape leadership—and how do you heal while leading?
What does “where grit meets grace” look like in real life?
How should women navigate imposter syndrome in executive roles?
How do you build your boardroom, foxhole, and locker room?
What’s the right way to handle layoffs, emotionally + strategically?
Why do we overthink speaking up—and how do we stop?
How do you build a personal brand that attracts opportunity?
What’s the difference between regulating and resolving trauma?
How do you show up in rooms where you’re the only woman?
How do leaders model vulnerability without losing authority?
How do you disarm conflict quickly using curiosity?

Learn More About STRIPES & Crystal Simons:
STRIPES (event organizer, women in medtech group): https://www.stripes.network/
STRIPES LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stripesnetworking/
Crystal Simons: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalsimonphd/

Mentioned in this Episode:
Boundaries — Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
The 5 Second Rule / 5-4-3-2-1 method — Mel Robbins
The Culture Map — Erin Meyer
Badass Leaders Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass?sub_confirmation=1
“A-Team” philosophy (Boardroom, Foxhole, Locker Room): https://www.angelagillnelms.com/building-your-a-team/
Cathleen Quigley (transgender leader, Georgia Tech alum, Broadcom engineer, Emmy winner): https://youtu.be/A1FVVQ1hmi4?si=PzqizRuuwTajuwGk
Gia Ganesh (People & Culture leader, podcast guest, Florence alum): https://youtu.be/vh69c_f4Sv8?si=vf92g1YVKjC6KpDf
Biolocity (Angela’s current role, Georgia Tech & Emory program): https://biolocity.gatech.edu/
Chief (networking group for female executives): https://chief.com/

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

trauma leadership, women in medtech, women leaders, resilience training, , grit and grace, trauma recovery leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, medtech leadership, A-Team leadership model, executive coaching, conflict resolution tools, leadership mindset, healing trauma, layoff recovery, navigating career transitions

Leading Through Change: 6 Keys for Badass Leaders Navigating Stormy Seas | S1 E33

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 11:15:00 +0200

Change isn’t on the horizon — it’s here, it’s loud, and if you’re leading a team, you’re feeling the waves. In this episode of Badass Leaders, Angela Gill Nelms walks you through six essential leadership keys to help you steer through turbulence with clarity, empathy, and resilience.

You'll discover how to:
- Set the right pace so your team isn't overwhelmed or lost
- Create the anchor of routine when uncertainty is the only constant
- Use empathy as your compass when direction isn’t clear
- Shift from resisting change to adapting boldly
- Celebrate small wins to build momentum and trust
- Prepare for the calm after the storm so your team comes out stronger

Whether you’re managing a pivot, crisis, growth surge, or cultural shift — this episode is your map for steering through the storm without capsizing.

👉 Subscribe, like, and comment below: share what storm you’re navigating and let’s build that badass resilience together.

Key Questions Answered:
- What’s the biggest mistake leaders make when steering through change?
- How can I set a pace that neither paralyzes nor outpaces my team?
- Why do routines matter more than ever during disruption?
- How does empathy factor into leadership when everything’s shifting?
- When should you stop resisting change and start adapting?
- How do you celebrate wins when it feels like nothing is working?
- What does “preparing for calm” mean — and how do you do it?
- How do you emerge from change stronger, not just surviving?

Key Themes:

Change Leadership
Resilience & Agility
Team Culture During Turbulence
Routine & Stability
Empathy in Leadership
Adaptation vs Resistance
Celebrating Progress
Leading Through Uncertainty
High-Performance Teams in Crisis

Keywords:

leadership change management, navigating change for leaders, how to lead through turbulence, resilience in leadership, team culture during change, shift from resistance to adaptability, empathy in leadership, routines during uncertainty, badass leadership strategies, Angela Gill Nelms change leadership

#Leadership
#ChangeManagement
#Resilience
#BadassLeaders
#TeamCulture
#Adaptability
#LeadThroughChange
#EmpathyInLeadership
#HighPerformanceTeams
#NavigatingChange

Mentioned this Episode:
The fragile refuge of routines in a time of uncertainty by Amy J. Ko: https://medium.com/bits-and-behavior/the-fragile-refuge-of-routines-in-a-time-of-uncertainty-4ecce13a99d0
New EY US Consulting study:https://www.ey.com/en_us/newsroom/2023/03/new-ey-us-consulting-study
Resist Resisting from Calm: https://www.calm.com/blog/navigating-change
Conflict Management highlights from the Badass Leaders Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7boqkSxN9U&t=3s
Read the full blog here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/navigating-change-a-leaders-6-keys-to-steering-through-stormy-seas/

About Angela:
Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.
Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at hello@TheAGNGroup.com to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Scaling Startups to $800M Exits | Lynn Herrick | S1 E32

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:30:00 +0200

What does it take to go from practicing law to leading companies through $800M acquisitions? In this episode of Badass Leaders, Lynn Herrick shares her unconventional path from attorney to COO, the hard-won lessons she learned scaling GreatCall to its Best Buy exit, and why culture—not strategy—saves companies.

We dig into how she transformed high-turnover call centers into thriving “caring centers,” simplified complex problems that consultants said would take years, and navigated the messy realities of mergers, leadership, and conflict. If you’re serious about building resilient teams and leading with humanity, this conversation is a masterclass.

Learn More About Lynn:
Instagram: @lynnherrickart
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lynnkantorherrick

Mentioned in this Episode:
Make Work Not Suck (Podcast hosted by Daniel Steere & Ryan) https://www.makeworknotsuck.com
Vicki Bradley’s episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast https://youtu.be/1npYQanCFTE?si=CdCWNKkB0kWYMURb
Daniel Steere’s episode of the Badass Leaders Podcat https://youtu.be/3ony669Dmy4?si=68b69GI4sp9xOzSd
GreatCall (now Lively by Best Buy Health) https://corporate.bestbuy.com/2021/best-buy-health-introduces-lively-smart-smartphone-for-the-active-aging-community/
Florence Healthcare – Company where Angela Gill Nelms served as COO https://florencehc.com/
Simon Sinek – Author & speaker referenced regarding leadership and corporate culture) https://simonsinek.com/
Jack Welch – Former GE CEO referenced as an example of old-school ranking systems in corporations (books like Winning)

About Angela:
Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.
Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at hello@TheAGNGroup.com to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Surviving Kidnapping & Trauma: 50 Years Alive, 5 Years Free | Angela Gill Nelms | S1 E31

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0200

This is not a typical episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast. Today, it’s just me — Angela Gill Nelms — sharing a story I never thought I’d tell publicly.

This year marks two milestones:
50 years alive — and 5 years free.
Five years since I escaped a kidnapping that nearly ended my life. Five years of rebuilding, healing, reclaiming my voice, and redefining what leadership truly means when you’ve had to fight for your own survival.

In this deeply personal episode, I open up about:
- Surviving childhood abuse
- Navigating heartbreak, loss, and stillbirth
- Escaping captivity and the five days that changed everything
- The years of healing that followed
- How resilience, empathy, and purpose reshaped my leadership
- Why “Be Brave. Be Badass.” looks different every single day
- What it truly means to thrive after trauma

This isn’t trauma for shock value — it’s a conversation about courage, survival, purpose, self-trust, and building a life worth living.

If you’ve survived something that tried to break you, or you’re walking through your own battle, I hope my story reminds you that you are not alone.

👉 If this resonates, please comment, like, subscribe, and share — these stories reach the people who need them because of you.
👉 Share your story in the comments — I read every single one.

Half a century alive. Five years free. And still just getting started.

Key Questions Answered:
- What does resilience look like when life hits harder than you ever imagined?
- How do you rebuild trust in yourself after trauma?
- What does healing actually require — and what doesn’t it fix?
- How do fear, purpose, and leadership evolve after surviving something life-altering?
- What is the difference between surviving and thriving?
- How do you reclaim your identity after abuse, loss, or trauma?
- How do leaders stay human while still being strong for others?
- Why is “Be Brave. Be Badass.” different every single day?

Key Themes:
Surviving Trauma
Healing, PTSD, and Recovery
Courage in Leadership
Emotional Resilience
Personal Transformation
Escaping Abuse
Self-Trust & Rebuilding Identity
Purpose-Driven Leadership
Mental Health for Leaders
Survival vs. Thriving
Freedom as a Daily Practice
Vulnerability & Authentic Leadership

Keywords:

surviving kidnapping story, trauma recovery journey, leadership after trauma, resilience story podcast, surviving abuse and healing, emotional resilience for leaders, Angela Gill Nelms story, five years free kidnapping survival, personal transformation after trauma, mental health leadership podcast, overcoming childhood abuse, thriving after trauma, trauma healing journey, badass leaders podcast

#SurvivalStory
#TraumaHealing
#Resilience
#LeadershipJourney
#SurvivingAbuse
#HealingAfterTrauma
#KidnappingSurvivor
#MentalHealthMatters
#BadassLeaders
#BeBraveBeBadass
#EmotionalResilience
#FreedomJourney

Resources & Links:
Listen to more episodes of the Badass Leaders Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass?sub_confirmation=1

About Angela:
Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.
Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at hello@TheAGNGroup.com to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Turning BS Jobs into Purpose-Driven Work | Daniel Steere | S1 E30

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In this candid and energetic conversation, Daniel Steere ( @steeringventures ) unpacks what it really takes to “make work not suck.” From reframing “BS jobs” to uncovering dignity in every role, Daniel shares his Vision–Journey–Culture–Results framework and challenges leaders to think beyond quick wins. We dig into why purpose matters more than process, the hidden dangers of “hero culture,” and how the right mindset can transform even the most mundane tasks into meaningful work.

Along the way, we tackle the leader–manager divide, the importance of superpowers over well-roundedness, and why “cool” is never a business plan. Whether you’re a CEO, a new manager, or someone wondering how to find meaning in your 9-to-5, this episode will give you the perspective (and push) you need to make your work matter.

Learn more about Daniel at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.r.steere
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dsteere3/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielsteere/
Website: www.steeringventures.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@steeringventures
Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@makeworknotsuck @makeworknotsuck

Mentioned This Episode:
Make Your Brand Legendary – book by Scott Wozniak: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Brand-Legendary/dp/1647469986
Scott Wozniak’s episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast – https://youtu.be/YJ05Ewazics?si=YTguwzCqw-ATTCFo
Working Genius Assessment – team productivity tool by Patrick Lencioni https://www.workinggenius.com/
Boundaries – book by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend https://www.amazon.com/Boundaries-When-Take-Control-Your/dp/0310247454
DISC Personality Assessment – behavioral assessment tool https://www.discprofile.com/what-is-disc
628 Dirt Rooster – https://www.youtube.com/@628DirtRooster

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

How a Southern Belle Became Europe’s Healthcare Fixer | Dr. Beth Harrison | S1 E29

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:04:00 +0200

From the streets of Savannah to the boardrooms of European hospitals, Dr. Beth Harrison’s life is a masterclass in resilience and bold leadership. In this powerful episode, she shares her journey of growing up adopted in a conservative Southern home, later discovering the truth about her birth, and turning life’s challenges into unstoppable momentum.

Dr. Harrison reveals how sailing and game theory shaped her leadership style, why she left a secure career to launch a healthcare consulting firm from scratch, and how she went on to turn around struggling hospitals while navigating high-stakes conflicts in Germany’s healthcare system. Her story is raw, inspiring, and filled with lessons on courage, vulnerability, and the power of truly seeing humans as humans.

Learn more about Beth Harrison at:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.harrison.16547008
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_beth2017/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-elizabeth-harrison-60054372/

Mentioned this episode:
- Good to Great by Jim Collins
- A Beautiful Mind (film, referenced for game theory)
- Dallas TV series — “Who Shot J.R.?” storyline
- Rotary International Scholarship (for study in Germany)
- University of Georgia (UGA) — “Double Dawg” program
- UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham)
- Humboldt University, East Berlin
- 628 Dirt Rooster: https://www.youtube.com/@628DirtRooster
- Cathleen Quigley's Interview: https://youtu.be/A1FVVQ1hmi4?si=RZk9KRJdl_u9BC9X

About Angela:
Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.
Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at hello@TheAGNGroup.com to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.
@BMEGeorgiaTechEmory @GeorgiaTechCoE @georgiatech

Physics of Conflict from a Black Belt Engineer | Karen Valencic | S1 E28

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:02:00 +0200

What if mastering conflict could bring you more freedom, not friction? In this episode, Angela sits down with Karen Valencic—engineer, Aikido black belt, and author of Spiral Impact: The Power to Get It Done with Grace—to talk about why most of us misunderstand conflict and how to flip it into connection.

Karen unpacks the difference between force and power, shares why confrontation is rarely the answer, and explains how a screw and a spiral can teach you more about leadership than a business degree ever will. From childhood survival roles to executive boardrooms, this conversation rewires how we think about tension, communication, and impact.

Learn more about Karen Valencic at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenvalencic/
Website: https://www.karenvalencic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@karenvalencic @karenvalencic
Podcast: https://valencic.substack.com,
Book: www.amazon.com/dp/1946533831
Substack: https://valencic.substack.com

Mentioned in this Episode:
The Magic of Conflict by Thomas Crum: https://amzn.to/4m9YAQX
Georgia Tech (Georgia Institute of Technology)
https://www.gatech.edu/
Butler University (where Karen has mentored students)
https://www.butler.edu/
Trine University (formerly Tri-State University) – Karen’s alma mater
https://www.trine.edu/
“The person who has a mind to fight has broken their connection with the universe.” – Aikido philosophy (Morihei Ueshiba)
“Power is rotational. Force is linear.” – Karen Valencic, explaining the Spiral vs. Hammer analogy
“Tell me more.” – A core practice Karen recommends to shift from confrontation to connection
“Conflict means to strike together.” – Latin root of conflict explained in Spiral Impact

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.
@AngelaGillNelms

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

Gamify Your Life & Leadership for Maximum Impact | Caitlin Johnson: Play to Lead | S1 E27

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:30:00 +0200

Gamification expert Caitlin Johnson joins Angela Gill Nelms to unpack how leaders can transform their work, careers, and teams using game design thinking.

From leveling up your career to designing systems that make hard things fun, Caitlin shares tactical strategies and hard-earned wisdom from her work coaching tens of thousands of leaders. They dig into motivation, breaking out of comfort zones, embracing experimentation, and why 90-day quests might be the secret to your next breakthrough. This episode is a high-energy blend of inspiration and action—perfect for leaders ready to play bigger.

Learn more about Caitlin Johnson at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldbirdconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlin-s-johnson/
Website: www.bold-bird.com
Podcast: Campus to Corporate
@bold-birdconsulting1309

Mentioned this episode:
Guion Bluford Jr. – First African-American astronaut; personal inspiration for Caitlin (https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/bluford_guion.pdf)
Scott – Podcast host Caitlin previously co-hosted with (https://youtu.be/YJ05Ewazics?si=dDNopyVJ9JknJ2bp)
Florence Healthcare – Angela’s former company where she implemented gamification in software design (https://florencehc.com/)
Richard Bartle – Game designer who created the 4 player types: Dominator, Achiever, Explorer, Connector (https://www.essex.ac.uk/people/BARTL01006/Richard-Bartle)
Working Genius – Personality assessment tool referenced (https://www.workinggenius.com/)
Ikigai – Japanese concept of “reason for being,” discussed in relation to evolving epic missions
Atomic Habits by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Jet Pilot, Ferrari Racer, Global Consultant: Living and Leading Boldly | Bud Moeller | S1 E26

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:30:00 +0200

- Ferrari Racing, Accenture & Global Leadership | Bud Moeller
How do you earn followers, not just employees?

In this episode of The Badass Leaders Podcast, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Bud Moeller—Georgia Tech Hall of Fame alum, former Booz Allen & Accenture partner, global transformation consultant, semi-pro Ferrari race car driver, jet pilot, and certified sommelier.

They dig into how Bud:
Went from chemical engineering at Georgia Tech to Harvard Business School
Led total corporate transformations across Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
Helped build Accenture’s strategic change management capability
Grew a practice from 1% to 24% of regional revenue
Now channels his leadership into nonprofits, mentoring, and legacy work

You’ll hear candid stories about:
- Why most executives misunderstand change management
- How culture (Thailand vs Netherlands vs U.S.) completely reshapes leadership style
- The brutal reality of consulting, layoffs, and hard decisions
- What passion (Ferraris, flying, wine) has to do with leading well and living fully
- Why “life’s too short to drink bad wine and drive bad cars” is more than a cute quote

If you’re a founder, executive, emerging leader, or consultant, this conversation will challenge how you think about strategy, people, culture, and what “success” actually means in the second half of life.

Key Questions Answered:
- What is the real difference between a manager and a leader?
- How do you turn employees into followers—not just people who obey?
- Why do most companies fail at change management, even with a great strategy?
- How do you lead large-scale transformations across countries and cultures?
- What does it take to grow from 1% to 24% of a region’s business?
- How should leadership evolve in nonprofits and volunteer-driven organizations?
- What’s the role of empathy and passion in modern leadership?
- How do you consciously design your legacy in the “give-back” stage of life?
- How did Bud go from Mustangs to Ferraris, from consulting to flying jets, and why does that matter for leadership?
- What does “life’s too short” really mean when you apply it to work, time, and joy?

Core Themes:
Manager vs Leader
Leadership vs Management
Influence vs Positional Authority
Corporate Transformation & Turnarounds
Strategy, Operating Models & People
Change Management (beyond “training”)
Cross-Cultural Leadership (Asia, Europe, U.S.)
Consulting Life (Booz Allen, Accenture)
Nonprofit & Board Leadership
Legacy, Significance & “Halftime” in Life
Empathy, Passion & Personality in Leadership
Conflict Resolution & Hard Decisions
Race Cars, Flying & High-Performance Mindsets
Wine, Taste, and Designing a Life You Actually Enjoy

Learn more about Bud Moeller at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bud.moeller
Instagram: @budmoeller
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bud-moeller-94068/
Mentioned in this episode:
A-Tteam blog: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/building-your-a-team/v
Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com/
Halftime: https://amzn.to/44M9TYF
@budracerf1
@georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

Keywords:
manager vs leader, leadership vs management, what makes a good leader, total corporate transformation, change management consulting, Booz Allen Hamilton partner, Accenture strategy partner, global leadership, cross-cultural leadership, Georgia Tech College of Engineering Hall of Fame, Harvard MBA leadership, nonprofit board leadership, legacy in leadership, empathy in leadership, passion and leadership, conflict resolution at work, firing with empathy, consulting career advice, high performance mindset, Ferrari race car driver business lessons, jet pilot leadership lessons, sommelier leadership, Angela Gill Nelms podcast, Badass Leaders Podcast

#Leadership
#ManagerVsLeader
#BadassLeadersPodcast
#ChangeManagement
#GlobalLeadership
#ConsultingLife
#CorporateTransformation
#NonprofitLeadership
#Legacy
#FerrariRacing
#JetPilot
#EmpathyInLeadership
#GeorgiaTech
#Accenture
#harvardmba

Aviation Lessons for High-Risk Industries: From Jet Engines to Oil Rigs | Andrew Dingee | S1 E25

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:30:00 +0200

How a fighter pilot helped BP slash safety incidents by 70%—Andrew Dingee on systems, leadership, and learning from failure.

Andrew Dingee, former fighter pilot and BP executive, joins Angela Gill Nelms to share how aviation safety principles—like checklists, debriefs, and human factors thinking—can transform corporate culture. They discuss building systems that learn from mistakes, the role of leadership in psychological safety, and what it takes to drive lasting change in high-risk industries.

Learn more about Andrew at:
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-d-23812115/
Website:
https://www.systemsafety4u.com/
Book:
https://www.amazon.ca/Delivering-Right-Stuff-Operational-Excellence/dp/148348713X

Mentioned in this Episode:
The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe: https://buff.ly/R48YGSR
Kofi Smith's episode: https://youtu.be/5CKPG7nfwww?si=TA65aKABYBf6aN7Q
Basketball Gorilla Experiment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo
Angela’s Iron Man races: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/my-triathlon-days/
Hawthorne Effect: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/h/hawthorne-effect.asp
Angela's book list: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/angelas-ultimate-business-booklist-for-growth-leadership/
Jacob Karnes’s (Chick-fil-a) episode: https://youtu.be/C3mpwikZWXw?si=Wgx86IISi-PdZ6kS
Scott Wozniak’s (Chick-fil-a) episode: https://youtu.be/YJ05Ewazics?si=p1NUy9n9FUKEvMYq

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

Stop Sacrificing Yourself for Success: Avoid Burnout Today | S1 E24

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:30:00 +0200

You can be successful and sane — yes, really. In this episode, we delve into how leaders can avoid the burnout trap while still accomplishing significant work and making a meaningful impact.

Join Angela Gill Nelms as she shares 6 badass steps from her blog post/mini-episode that help you:
- Recognize the early warning signs of burnout (before it burns you out)
- Define success on your terms — not someone else’s standard
- Build boundary systems, support networks, and resilience habits
- Leverage “less is more” productivity and sustainable growth
- Reconnect with purpose, energy, and clarity — not just drive
- Create a leadership rhythm that wins without wrecking you

If you’re a leader, founder, executive, or high-performer chasing big results but done sacrificing everything else—this is for you.

👉 Subscribe and click the bell to get more episodes on leadership, culture, and high-performing lives.

Questions Answered:
- Can you really be productive without burning out?
- What are the early signs of burnout and what to do about them?
- How do high-achievers redefine success to protect their well-being?
- What systems, rituals or habits help leaders sustain performance and sanity?
- How do you build a support structure so you’re not doing it all alone?
- Why “work harder” often equals “work longer” — and what to change instead?
- How do you build sustainable momentum vs. short-term bursts of hustle?

Key Themes:
Avoiding Burnout
Sustainable Leadership Performance
Healthy Boundaries & Support Systems
Redefining Success
Purpose-Driven Productivity
High-Performance without Self-Destruction
Leadership Rhythm & Resilience
Energy Management vs Time Management

Read the full blog here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/a-blueprint-for-success-without-burnout-6-easy-steps/

Keywords:

leadership without burnout, sustainable success for leaders, burnout prevention strategies, 6 easy steps to success, high performing leaders healthy habits, redefine success burnout, Angela Gill Nelms blueprint for success, avoid burnout leadership, resilient leadership habits

#Leadership
#BurnoutPrevention
#HighPerformance
#SustainableSuccess
#BadassLeaders
#LeadershipHabits
#PurposeDriven
#WorkLifeBalance
#ResilientLeadership
#SuccessWithoutBurnout

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Building the Internet: A Trans Woman’s Story of Innovation | Cathleen Quigley | S1 E23

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:30:00 +0200

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of the Badass Leaders podcast, Angela welcomes Emmy Award-winning technologist and engineering trailblazer Cathleen Quigley, who shares her remarkable journey through Silicon Valley, Broadcom, and beyond.

Cathleen opens up about pioneering broadband innovations, earning over 100 patents, and the emotional and professional complexity of transitioning later in life. The conversation blends leadership, legacy, imposter syndrome, and diversity in STEM, offering a humanizing and authentic look at what it means to lead—and live—courageously.

Learn more about Cathleen at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quigleycathleen/
Email: cathleenquigley@gmail.com

Mentioned This Episode:
Georgia Tech College of Engineering
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification)
Broadcom Inc.
National Semiconductor
VLSI Technology
TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company):
Head Over Heels: https://amzn.to/3ZMsMJd

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms @georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE

Game-Time Mentality: Football Foundations for Leadership | Dr. Kofi Smith | S1 E22

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:29:00 +0200

Former college football athlete turned powerhouse leader, Kofi Smith joins the Badass Leaders Podcast to share his journey from the field to the front office. In this raw and inspiring conversation, Kofi unpacks how discipline, resilience, and teamwork shaped his leadership style. He dives deep into the power of authenticity, conflict resolution, mental health, and the importance of embracing vulnerability. From overcoming rejection to building a legacy, this episode is a masterclass in turning adversity into fuel—and leading with purpose, heart, and hustle.

Learn more about Kofi at:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drkofismith43
Instagram: dr._kksmith

Mentioned this episode:
The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins: https://buff.ly/xd5CeEQ
Columbus War Dogs football team: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Wardogs
Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson: https://buff.ly/87CLRXB
AATC: https://aatc.org/
Georgia Tech Black Alumni Association: https://www.instagram.com/gtbao_/?hl=en
Daniel Steere’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/make-work-not-suck/id1745439676
Scott Wozniak’s episode: https://youtu.be/YJ05Ewazics?si=_NtXaPffWAGNVEYJ
Angela's triatholon blog post: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/my-triathlon-days/
A-Team blog post: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/ep-021-building-your-a-team-who-you-need-in-your-corner-for-leadership-success/
Angela’s story of abuse as a child: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/from-survival-to-strength-my-journey/
The SPEED of Trust by Stephen M .R. Covey: https://buff.ly/0wBld3t

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE

Stop Leading Alone: The Key to Sustainable Leadership Success | S1 E21

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:57:00 +0200

You can’t lead well alone. Real leadership demands a trusted squad in your corner — people who challenge you, support you, and push you forward. In this episode (or video), Angela Gill Nelms breaks down the three vital roles your personal leadership “A-Team” must fill — the Boardroom, the Foxhole, and the Locker Room — and how each one elevates your game and builds your resilience.

We’ll walk you through:
- Why your leadership support system matters more than your “solo-hero” mindset
- How to identify who should sit in each A-Team role: Boardroom (strategic mentors), Foxhole (rock-solid allies), Locker Room (motivators & champions)
- Real-world actions to build and nurture that support team — from outreach to appreciation
- How this network helps you see blind spots, boost your confidence, open doors, and celebrate your wins

A reflection question: What role is missing from your A-Team today?

If you’re serious about stepping up as a leader, this episode is a blueprint for creating the ecosystem that supports you — not just your function, but you.
👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs their A-Team too.

Want to read the full article? Go here: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/building-your-a-team-who-you-need-in-your-corner-for-leadership-success/

Questions Answered:
- Why do great leaders stop doing it all — and start building a team around them?
- What are the three essential roles of your leadership A-Team (Boardroom, Foxhole, Locker Room)?
- How do you identify who fits each role in your leadership support system?
- What actions can you take to build or strengthen your A-Team today?
-- Why does having trusted advisors boost confidence, open doors, and improve decisions?
- How do you evaluate your current team and ask: “Who’s missing from my corner?”
- How does the concept of an A-Team apply outside business (e.g., parenting, sports, life)?

Key Themes:
- Leadership Support Systems
- Building High-Performing Teams
- Mentorship & Advisors
- Emotional & Strategic Allies
- Boardroom vs Foxhole vs Locker Room Roles
- Blind Spots & Self-Awareness in Leadership
- Networking, Relationships & Growth
- Recognizing and Celebrating Wins
- Leadership Ecosystem, Not Solo Hero

Keywords:
leadership support system, build your A-team, leadership team roles, who you need in your corner, mentorship for leaders, leadership network, high performing leadership teams, boardroom foxhole locker room, Angela Gill Nelms A-Team article, better leadership through relationships

#Leadership
#ATeam
#Mentorship
#HighPerformingTeams
#BadassLeaders
#LeadershipSupport
#BuildYourTeam
#ExecutiveLeadership
#TeamBuilding
#LeadershipDevelopment

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

Firing Customers, Hiring Rockstars: How Great Leaders Retain Talent | Jacob Karnes | S1 E20

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, business coach and former Chick-fil-A leader Jacob Karnes ( @WavesBusinessCoaching ) shares practical insights on leadership, team dynamics, and employee retention. He dives into why clarity is a leader’s superpower, how to build strong workplace cultures, and why belonging matters more than money when it comes to retention.

Jacob discusses how to grow yourself and your team, the power of feedback, and the role of personal branding in leadership. From navigating conflict to building community at work, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to help you lead with purpose, empower your people, and drive impact.

Learn more about Jacob at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobkarnes/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/
Website:https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com/
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@WavesBusinessCoaching
Podcast https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com/podcast
Get my Book For Free: https://masteryourfirstjob.com/free

Mentioned in this episode:
Atomic Habits: https://amzn.to/3FC3uXi
Man's Search for Meaning: https://amzn.to/3FAMDnM
Hero on a Mission: https://amzn.to/3Hi0zDT
Storyworthy: https://amzn.to/3HpqDwF
The 6 Types of Working Genius: https://amzn.to/43G88f3
Radical Candor: https://amzn.to/4kJ69xd
The Making of a Manager: https://amzn.to/3HoxFlp
Scott Wozniak’s episode: https://youtu.be/YJ05Ewazics?si=w14rrl67JEeYxsga
Anne Chow’s episode: https://youtu.be/JrgdCCOwkG0?si=VZHi7xMyesEmEyaO
Kristi Shaw’s episode: https://youtu.be/_beumKc6pDI?si=0A12Co7KsOASNGRJ
A famous quote was once said by a one Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group. It was simple, “take care of your employees and they'll take care of your business”.
Angela’s working genius:
Genius: Galvanizing and Discernment
Competency: Tenacity and Enablement
Frustration: Wonder and Invention

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com @AngelaGillNelms

Work-Life Balance Is Broken: What Leaders Need Instead | Kristi Straw | S1 E19

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 28 May 2025 12:15:00 +0200

What does it really mean to lead with authenticity in a world that often rewards conformity? In this powerful episode, Kristi Straw ( @KristiStraw_UNICORNLeader ) —serial founder, leadership coach, and creator of the Unicorn Leader framework—joins host Angela Gill Nelms to unpack the real story behind effective leadership.

As she navigates toxic corporate culture and embraces emotional intelligence with compassionate communication, Kristi shares how today’s leaders can stand out by standing in their truth. Together, they explore the rise of the “shamager” (shame-filled manager), the myth of work-life balance, and why visibility and personal branding are no longer optional.

Learn more about Kristi Straw at:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kstrawmba
Website: www.LighthouseLeadershipConsultants.com
YouTube: @KristiStraw_UNICORNLeader •
Podcast: https://kristitanquerayontherocks.buzzsprout.com
Book: https://a.co/d/6BL1ib0
Academy: https://impactlegacylab.com/influenceandincome/

Mentioned in this Episode:
Lake Atitlan Airbnbs: https://tinyurl.com/5c9jsj9b
Angela's trip to Guatemala: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/guatamala-2019-building-a-medical-clinic/
Authentic Authority™ Archetype quiz: https://0vk6npipung.typeform.com/to/yLi40tuY?typeform-source=www.linkedin.com
Burnout blog: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/a-blueprint-for-success-without-burnout-6-easy-steps/
Full digging quote: “If you’re digging a hole in the wrong place, making it deeper doesn’t help anything.” — Seymour Chwast
Make Your Brand Legendary: https://amzn.to/4k87zlD
Raving Fans: https://amzn.to/3Qzu5WY
Nonviolent Communication by by Marshall B. Rosenberg PhD: https://amzn.to/3Sn7Kgc
Radical Candor: https://amzn.to/3XjDVzX
The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo: https://amzn.to/3FaEoPh
Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Why Peaceful Leadership Matters More Than Ever | Sophie Badré | S1 E18

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 21 May 2025 12:00:00 +0200

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with leadership coach and global thinker Sophie Badré to explore what it truly means to lead in a multicultural world. Sophie unpacks the concept of peaceful leadership—a style rooted in kindness, self-awareness, and authentic communication—and why it’s becoming essential in today’s complex global landscape.

From her rich experiences working across cultures, Sophie shares insights into how adaptability, intuition, and cultural sensitivity shape a leader’s effectiveness. The conversation dives deep into how leaders can build legacy through alignment, emotional intelligence, and genuine human connection, rather than authority or ego.

Learn more about Sophie at:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophie-badré
Website: www.peaceful-leadership.com
Email: sophie@peaceful-leadership.com

Mentioned this episode:
Daniel Barenboim: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD7QUSiWc7QBP2XGRMGwjEg
Butterfly Effect book: https://amzn.to/3Zjfq6R
Dash poem: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/the-dash-poem-by-linda-ellis/
"I heard you die twice. Once when they bury you in the grave. And the second is the last time when someone mentions your name.": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OrLroFa0AI&t=66s
The Culture Map: https://amzn.to/43bWlVq
Radical Candor: https://amzn.to/43hO6HC
Questions Are the Answer: https://amzn.to/431g5wg

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Mastering Workplace Conflict: Lessons from Top Leaders | S1 E16

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 07 May 2025 11:00:00 +0200

Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it makes all the difference.

In this special “best of” episode, we’ve curated powerful moments from past guests who’ve shared their wisdom on navigating conflict at work and in life. From embracing discomfort to leaning into tough conversations, our guests offer practical strategies, candid stories, and refreshing perspectives on what it means to manage tension with empathy, clarity, and confidence.

Whether you're leading a team, managing up, or facing peer-to-peer challenges, this montage is packed with insights to help you transform conflict into connection.

Watch the full interviews here:
Mark Williams: https://youtu.be/RVhQK9FT0hI?si=HP3AE0An7YAaz3fD
Patrick Lyons: https://youtu.be/Crf6TXEB-Rk?si=9U3DsVX1HxkF1q3V @TheFrustratedCEOPodcast
Gia Ganesh & Angela Gill Nelms: https://youtu.be/vh69c_f4Sv8?si=hQX1M2dx6bcnKyOc
Marc Reifenrath: https://youtu.be/x4yuJeb3G4Q?si=MsI0yunXLmxkeDR7 ‪ @spinutech

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @GiaGanesh

Why Diversity Drives Better Healthcare Innovation | Sherry Farrugia | S1 E15

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0200

In this episode, Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Sherry Farrugia, Senior Vice President at Veranex, to unpack what it really takes to lead in today’s complex healthcare and life sciences landscape. From her decades in health IT to her work commercializing cutting-edge medical devices, Sherry shares the behind-the-scenes lessons that have shaped her leadership philosophy — one rooted in empathy, inclusion, and relentless innovation.

We dive into the challenges women face in STEM, how public-private partnerships can actually work, and why diversity isn’t just a checkbox — it’s the key to better solutions. Sherry opens up about the importance of a joint mission, the art of conflict resolution, and how to build sustainable teams in a fast-moving, high-stakes industry.

Learn more about Sherry at:
Instagram: sherryfar723
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sherryfarrugia
Website: www.veranex.com

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

How Resilience, Joy & Reflection Shape a Badass Life with Angela Gill Nelms | Gia Ganesh | S1 E14

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0200

In this special role-reversal episode of Badass Leaders Podcast, the mic is flipped! Angela Gill Nelms, usually the fearless host, takes the hot seat while her dear friend and fellow badass leader, Gia Ganesh, steps in as interviewer.

What unfolds is a raw, inspiring, and refreshingly candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and what it really means to be brave. Angela opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, learning to lead with authenticity, and how a tough childhood shaped her fierce determination. She shares the wisdom she’s gained from motherhood, her journey as a single parent pursuing higher education, and her commitment to giving back through the AGN Group and Georgia Tech.

Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned exec, this episode is packed with insight, laughter, and moments that might just shift how you lead—and live.

Learn more about Gia at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giaganesh/
Website: https://giaganesh.com/meet-your-career-success-coach-gia-ganesh/
@GiaGanesh @giaganesh1036

Mentioned this episode:
Angela's blacksmithing: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/1287-2/
Woodturning Bowls: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/1332-2/
Radical Candor: https://amzn.to/42EL7IH
Making of a Manager: https://amzn.to/42oOc0L
Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

Redefining Tech Leadership: Leadership Lessons from a Tech Trailblazer | Tracy Lee | S1 E13

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:30:00 +0200

In this episode, host Angela Gill Nelms chats with Tracy Lee ( @TheLeadershipExchange ) —entrepreneur, technologist, and advocate for women in tech—about her journey from learning to code to leading in the health and life sciences space. Tracy shares why building community matters, how to hire for culture adds over culture fits, and why meaningful work resonates so strongly with today’s talent.

They dive into the nuances of leadership vs. management, the challenges of scaling engineering teams, and how AI is reshaping the way we work. Packed with real talk, insights, and laughs, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the evolving tech landscape.

Learn more about Tracy at:
Instagram: ladyleet
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tracyslee
Website:www.thisdot.co
YouTube: youtube.com/@TheLeadershipExchange
Twitter / X: @ladyleet
Podcasts: The Leadership Exchange by This Dot Labs, and Modern Web

Mentioned in this Episode:
Angela’s episode on The Leadership Exchange: https://youtu.be/0k09L2o46wA?si=kXNIKnPV0cqe_YQe
Cursor: https://www.cursor.com/
V0.dev: https://v0.dev/

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

What Cancer Taught Me About Business & Life | Steve Garraty | S1 E12

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:47:00 +0200

In this insightful episode, Steve Garraty, author of Grapefruit, shares how his battle with cancer reshaped his views on life, leadership, and gratitude. The conversation explores the power of empathy in navigating grief, the role of appreciation in leadership, and the contrast between managers and true leaders. Listeners gain valuable insights on building a winning culture, transforming underperforming teams, and integrating purpose into leadership. The episode concludes with key lessons on presence, personal growth, and fostering strong, community-driven leadership.

Learn more about Steve at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevegarratyauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevegarratyauthor
Website: https://stevegarraty.com/meet-author-steve-garraty/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sgarraty1 @sgarraty1
Book: https://amzn.to/3Y6vs3J
The poem read from Steve’s book: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/969007-if-you-want-to-know-the-value-of-one-year

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

How Marketers Can Find Their Voice | Sherry Grote | S1 E11

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:24:00 +0200

In this episode, Sherry Grote shares her journey from traditional marketing to becoming a licensed pastor and industry leader. She discusses balancing creativity with data-driven strategies, leading fragmented teams, and the power of communication in workplace culture.

Sherry also introduces Harmony Hero, an initiative empowering marketers and HR professionals to find their voice and drive change. The conversation explores emotional intelligence, team dynamics, leadership, key differences between B2B and B2C marketing, team-building strategies, and the impact of cultural diversity on collaboration.

Learn more about Sherry Grote at:
Facebook: The Harmony Hero
Instagram: @theharmonyhero
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrygrote/
Website: www.theharmonyhero.com
The DiSC test: https://discvalueprofiles.com/blog/what-are-the-disc-personality-types-a-deeper-look-at-12-styles/
@sherrygrotetheharmonyhero

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

What It Takes to Lead and Grow Winning Teams | Mark Williams | S1 E10

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we sit down with insurance industry CEO Mark Williams to explore the nuances of authentic leadership. Our conversation delves into creating employee-centric cultures, fostering open communication, and balancing business goals with employee well-being. We discuss the significance of vulnerability, empathy, and personal branding, sharing insights on conflict resolution, embracing failures, and encouraging innovation.

Tune in for practical takeaways and personal anecdotes that highlight the human side of effective leadership.

Learn more about Mark at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-bi/
Website: www.markwwilliams.com
Book: https://amzn.to/4ieUOnZ

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Music & Million-Dollar Deals, Leadership Lessons Learned | Jon Sexton | S1 E9

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0100

In this insightful conversation, Jon Sexton ( @Jon.sexton ), shares his journey from aspiring musician to successful entrepreneur in real estate and health clubs. He emphasizes adaptability, mentorship, and the value of building a strong team. Jon explores leadership dynamics, employee transitions, and personal well-being alongside Angela Gill Nelms. They discuss handling separations with grace, balancing coaching with tough decisions, and maintaining health routines. Jon also reflects on scaling teams, memorable career moments, and his ventures into podcasting and television. The conversation wraps up with motivational insights on passion, action, and leadership.

Learn more about Jon at:

Facebook: facebook.com/jonsextontimeline
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jon.sexton
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondsexton/
Website: www.nashvillehomeagents.com
YouTube: Youtube.com/jon.sexton @Jon.sexton
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0HPowGdfb1kYhE37Y69h5b?si=b-dKjA2fQ4-zjM_wTiQ8Vw

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

Fighter Pilot to Business Leader: High-Performance Leadership | Brandon Williams | S1 E8

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:12:00 +0100

In this episode, Angela Gill Nelms talks to fighter pilot and leadership expert Brandon Williams ( @leadershipspeakerpilot ), who shares powerful insights on building high-performing leaders by understanding human factors.

He explores the critical role of work-life integration, daily habits, and mindfulness in effective leadership. The discussion also examines the challenges of leading in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) environment and how lessons from aviation—such as mutual support, debrief culture, and just culture—can transform business leadership. Through real-world examples, Williams emphasizes that great leaders aren’t born; they’re developed through experience, accountability, and continuous learning.

Learn more about Brandon at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadershipSpeakerPilot
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/leadershipspeaker_pilot/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-williams-speaker/
Website: https://brandonwilliamsspeaker.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @leadershipspeakerpilot

Creating Impactful Brand Stories Through Leadership | Vicki Bradley | S1 E7

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:47:00 +0100

In this insightful and dynamic conversation, Angela Gill Nelms and Vicki Bradley ( @wilempowered ), dive deep into the core of leadership—exploring trust, confidence, and personal growth.

Through personal stories and real-world experiences, they discuss overcoming adversity, the power of internal validation, and the role of emotional intelligence in building strong relationships. They highlight the importance of conscious leadership, authentic communication, and the impact of trust on team dynamics. The conversation culminates in a powerful discussion on crafting a personal brand story rooted in authenticity and values, emphasizing the lasting impact of our choices and the legacy we leave behind. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for aspiring and seasoned leaders alike!

Learn more about Vicki at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wilempoweryou/
Instagram: @Women in Leadership Empowered @Vicki Bradley @WILEmpowered
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wilempowered/
Website: https://www.wilempowered.com/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/@UCYP72hX2PZEFI5gjCwxHRWw
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2x50hRwRaAFDzLZbfwu0Ol?si=f42eb3cbc4454030&nd=1
Angela’s appearance on Vicki’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkfMbqWh-Ho&t=2124s

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

The Secrets to Retaining Top Talent and Building Company Culture | Drew Harden | S1 E6

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0100

Angela Gill Nelms and Drew Harden dive into the essence of company culture and leadership, challenging the notion that culture is just about perks. Drawing from Drew's book Retain, they explore the power of visible values, appreciation, and working with like-minded clients. The conversation is packed with actionable insights on fostering joy, connection, growth, and vulnerability in the workplace. Through personal anecdotes and practical strategies, they highlight how authentic leadership and meaningful interactions create a thriving, engaged workforce.

Learn more about Drew at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewrharden
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewharden/
YouTube: youtube.com/@DrewHarden
Twitter / X: https://x.com/drewharden
Drew's book, Retain: https://amzn.to/4k00FyC
Drew's basketball video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DacuaYxzmRU
Drew's employee banner video: https://youtu.be/StR2CZ1_RhU?si=noV2iLjoo2Nj4VJJ

Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Social Media Channels:

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@angelagillnelms.com.

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.

Fostering Innovation and Employee Retention in Modern Workplaces | Marc Reifenrath | S1 E5

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Join host Angela Gill Nelms as she sits down with Marc Reinfenrath to explore the evolution of digital marketing, the power of core values in leadership, and the art of adapting to client needs. Marc shares his journey of founding Spinutech, his challenges, and key lessons in building strong client relationships and thriving team culture.

Together, they dive into modern leadership—navigating pressure, embracing failure, and fostering a culture of growth and vulnerability. They also discuss conflict resolution, employee retention, and how leadership language shapes team dynamics. From creating a social contract within teams to reinforcing values through intentional messaging, this conversation is packed with insights for leaders looking to inspire and empower their teams in today’s ever-evolving workplace.

Learn more about Marc at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcreifenrath/
Website: www.Spinutech.com
@spinutech

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com
@AngelaGillNelms

Leadership in the Age of AI | Eric Doherty | S1 E4

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:18:00 +0100

In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, host Angela Gill Nelms sits down with healthcare executive Eric Doherty to explore the evolving relationship between leadership, management, and technology—particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Together, they break down the key distinctions between leaders and managers, the role of trust in effective leadership, and the profound impact AI has across industries, including healthcare.

Eric offers valuable insights on integrating AI into organizations, addressing cybersecurity risks, and navigating the complex regulatory landscape. The conversation also tackles AI’s potential to drive efficiency in healthcare and manufacturing while acknowledging concerns about job displacement. Throughout the discussion, Angela and Eric emphasize the importance of strong leadership, continuous education, and proactive data security measures to harness AI’s power responsibly.

Learn more about Eric at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdohertygloballeader/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgK-nIOogzI
Twitter / X: https://x.com/EDohertyGlobal
Recovery Advocate Network Interview: https://youtu.be/BkXASTyUsa0?si=9PZKH7pF_bwoYEjq

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms

Navigating Family-Owned Businesses | Patrick Lyons | S1E3

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0100

Host Angela Gill Nelms as she sits down with Patrick Lyons, a seasoned expert in family business coaching.Patrick shares his insights on fostering communication, overcoming challenges, and scaling family-run organizations. He also discusses his podcast, the Frustrated CEO, where he interviews top leaders about their challenges and best practices.

Learn more about Patrick at:
Patrick’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pflyons/
The Lyons Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-lyons-group-consulting/
Website: https://thelyonsgroupconsulting.com

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @TheFrustratedCEOPodcast

Firing Toxic Clients, Building Company Culture, and Driving Workplace Inclusion | Anne Chow | S1E2

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:30:00 +0100

Join host Angela Gill Nelms as she sits down with Anne Chow to discuss her new book, Lead Bigger: The Transformative Power of Inclusion. Together, they explore the power of inclusive leadership, the role of communication and vulnerability in fostering supportive workplaces, and the importance of aligning actions with core values.

Anne shares lessons from her remarkable career and her time as CEO of AT&T Business, including insights gained through failures and the challenges of navigating toxic cultures. The conversation highlights how leaders can empower teams, build a culture of respect and belonging, and leverage inclusion as a sustainable competitive advantage.

Learn more about Anne at:

Instagram: @theannechow
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annehchow/
Website: www.theannechow.com
Twitter / X: @TheAnneChow
Book: https://amzn.to/3CMebFo

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @georgiatech @GeorgiaTechCoE

Raving Fans, Discount Traps, and the Importance of Personalized Service | Scott Wozniak | S1 E1

Angela Gill Nelms — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:59:00 +0100

Welcome to the Badass Leaders Podcast! In this conversation, Angela Gill Nelms interviews Scott Wozniak ( @SwozConsulting ), author of 'Make Your Brand Legendary.' They discuss the importance of creating a legendary brand through exceptional customer experiences, the journey of leadership, and the significance of consistency in building customer trust. Scott shares insights from his career, including his time at Chick-fil-A, and emphasizes that leadership is a set of behaviors that can be learned. The conversation also highlights the difference between satisfied customers and Raving Fans and how to cultivate a loyal customer base. In this conversation, Angela Gill Nelms discusses the impact of discounting on customer loyalty, the importance of pricing strategies, and the role of leadership in fostering collaboration and ownership within teams. She emphasizes the need for businesses to create memorable and personalized experiences for customers while avoiding the pitfalls of being perceived as 'cheap.' The discussion also touches on the significance of leadership in driving successful projects and the difference between memorable moments and personalized service.

Learn more about Scott at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SwozConsulting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwozniak/
Website: https://www.scottwozniak.com/ / www.scottwozniak.com
Twitter / X: https://x.com/scottewozniak
Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@SwozConsulting, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLQNFteCmdP7RZJSQ__Bj44BRjgIddR55&si=y8kQ2PY7Ij5T1j8t
Academy: www.legendarybrandsacademy.com
Book: https://amzn.to/4aUyRaS

Produced by: The AGN Group, Host: Angela Gill Nelms, Producer: Katie Hart
Tagline: Be Brave. Be Badass.
Websites: www.theagngroup.com and www.AngelaGillNelms.com

About The AGN Group:
At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badassleaderspodcast/
Twitter: https://x.com/BALeadersPod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email brave@badassleaderspodcast.com

@AngelaGillNelms @SwozConsulting

Trailer: Badass Leaders Podcast - Brave Hearts, Brave Conversations, Badass Leaders

Angela Gill Nelms — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:15:00 +0100

The AGN Group is excited to reveal a project we've been working on.... the Badass Leaders Podcast. What's it all about?

Each week, host Angela Gill Nelms will be joined by industry experts for intimate, eye-opening discussions on the challenges and joys of leadership today. Whether you're scaling your company, growing your brand, or unlocking your full badass potential, this podcast is for you! Be Brave, Be Badass, and tune in to elevate your leadership journey!

Want to be a guest? Email us at brave@badassleaderspodcast.com.

#BadassLeadersPodcast #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #ScalingYourBusiness#BeBraveBeBadass #TheAGNGroup