Why do so many capable leaders feel exhausted, unfocused, or misaligned, despite doing everything right? In this episode, David Carr sits down with Sara Gayle, founder of EverKind Strategies, to explore how neurodivergence, burnout, and broken systems quietly undermine leadership effectiveness and what it actually takes to design environments where people can thrive. Drawing from Sara’s journey as a late diagnosed ADHD leader and her work with mission driven organizations, this conversation examines how clarity, kindness, and relational intelligence shape sustainable growth. Rather than treating focus and productivity as personal discipline problems, David and Sara reframe them as leadership and systems responsibilities. The discussion also explores how emerging tools like AI can support neurodivergent leaders by capturing ideas, reducing cognitive load, and restoring margin when used intentionally and ethically. Grounded in real leadership experience, coaching work, and collaborative systems design, this episode challenges the assumption that burnout is a personal failure and instead points to the power of alignment, community, and humane leadership structures. In this episode: - Why burnout is often a systems issue, not a motivation problem - How ADHD and neurodivergence show up in leadership and teams - The role of kindness and challenge in healthy leadership cultures - How AI can support focus, follow through, and clarity - What it means to design work that fits real humans Links mentioned in this episode: - EverKind Strategies https://www.goeverkind.com - Sara Gayle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/saradgayle - Totally Normal Podcast hosted by Sara Gayle, available on major podcast platforms

Why do so many networking conversations never turn into real opportunities? In this episode, David Carr examines the leadership dynamics behind stalled conversions and why relationship-driven professionals often struggle to move conversations toward commitment. Inspired by the operating principles of Success Champions Network, this conversation explores how leadership, structure, and accountability shape whether conversations lead to results. David also references the systems-focused leadership behind SCN, led by Jessica Gruber, whose work emphasizes training, infrastructure, and intentional community design to support sustainable growth across chapters worldwide.  Drawing from real leadership engagements and collaborative work with founders, consultants, and professional organizations, this episode reframes sales and growth as a leadership responsibility rather than a transactional skill.  In this episode: • Why conversations alone don’t create growth • The cost of avoiding challenge in leadership • How structure protects trust • What it means to guide rather than convince Links mentioned in this episode:  - Success Champions Network: https://successchampionnetworking.com - Jessica Gruber: - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-gruber - https://jessicagruber.co/ - Buzzworks: https://buzzwks.com

What if exiting your business did not mean selling out your people, your culture, or your legacy? In this episode, David Carr sits down with Kelly Finnell, President of EFS ESOP Consultants and one of the nation’s leading experts on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), to unpack how employee ownership can be a powerful succession and liquidity strategy for business owners. With more than 40 years of experience helping founders transition ownership, Kelly breaks down what ESOPs actually are, how they work, and why they are often misunderstood. Together, David and Kelly explore why ESOPs appeal to what Kelly calls “compassionate capitalists” — leaders who want to achieve full fair market value for their business while also protecting employees, preserving culture, and sustaining long-term legacy. The conversation covers how ESOPs differ from private equity and strategic buyers, how tax advantages play a critical role, and why alignment between owners, employees, and performance creates healthier, more resilient organizations. Grounded in real-world case studies across engineering, defense contracting, and professional services, this episode reframes succession planning as a leadership decision — not just a financial transaction. In this episode: - What an ESOP is and how it works in plain language - Why ESOPs are an alternative to private equity and third-party sales - The role of legacy, culture, and stewardship in ownership transitions - How ESOPs align employee motivation with long-term performance - Common myths and misconceptions about ESOPs - What makes a company a strong (or weak) ESOP candidate Links mentioned in this episode: - EFS ESOP Consultants https://www.execfin.com - Kelly Finnell on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/esopcoach - The ESOP Coach (book by Kelly Finnell) https://www.esopcoach.com

In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, David W. Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Stephanie Simpson, founder of https://brand-ification.com, to explore the powerful intersection of leadership, message clarity, and brand confidence. Stephanie shares her journey from Warner Bros. to launching a brand strategy firm that helps business owners define who they are, what they stand for, and how to communicate it clearly. Together, they unpack why so many professionals struggle to articulate their value — and what it really takes to create a brand that connects. What You’ll Learn: - The real difference between branding, marketing, and messaging. - How to identify and speak directly to your ideal clients. - Why clarity beats cleverness every time. - How to “duplicate yourself” through better communication and systems. - The missing link between brand clarity and leadership alignment. If you’re a founder, consultant, or leader ready to simplify your message and amplify your impact, this episode is for you. Connect with Stephanie Simpson 🌐 Website: https://brand-ification.com 📧 Email: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/stephaniefifesimpson

What happens when a lifelong Star Wars fan turns his creative energy toward helping business owners tell better stories? In this episode, David W. Carr of Steward Your Business sits down with Roger Jorns, founder of Reanimation Design, fellow Success Champion Network member, and the creative mind behind the new LightsideCollectibles.com redesign. Roger shares how faith, humor, and storytelling shape his approach to design and how any small-business owner can transform their website into their best salesperson. You’ll learn: • Why clarity beats complexity in marketing • The three questions every website must answer • How the Hero’s Journey powers brand storytelling • What the Force can teach us about business balance Connect: Reanimation Design → https://reanimationdesign.com Lightside Collectibles → https://lightsidecollectibles.com

What if your business plan actually worked? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Michael Stewart, founder of Business Planning PLUS and a member of Success Champion Networking (SCN). Together, they unpack how to turn your business plan from a static document into a living system that drives growth, alignment, and accountability. Michael shares his powerful football (soccer) analogy — mapping every department to positions on the field — and shows how the best organizations play like high-performing teams, with clarity, rhythm, and trust. 💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn: - Why most business plans fail and how to create one that lives and breathes. - The 11 core areas every business needs to manage for success - How to develop a rhythm of accountability using “disclose, discuss, decide” - The power of alignment and communication in leadership meetings - How to plan for growth in uncertain markets and expanding internationally - Why leadership and culture are two sides of the same coin 🧠 Key Quote: “Most people spend more time planning their vacation than planning their business success.” — Michael Stewart 🌐 Connect with Michael Stewart Website: https://www.askmjs.co.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstewartuk  🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode to help more leaders align strategy, people, and purpose to build teams that win.

In this episode, David W. Carr of Steward Your Business and Davis Nguyen, founder of Purple Circle, share the systems and mindset that help coaches and consultants scale to $1 million in profit—without burning out.   They unpack what it really takes to simplify operations, build scalable systems, and create a business that serves your life instead of consuming it.   Key takeaways: - How clarity beats complexity in business growth - The three pillars of the Purple Circle Framework - Building a company that runs without you - Leadership lessons for sustainable success  Learn more:  Purple Circle → https://joinpurplecircle.com Ask Davis: How to Scale My Career Coaching Business → https://askdavis.com/how-to-scale-my-career-coaching-business

Are you unknowingly paying more in taxes than you should? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Catrina M. Craft, CPA — a tax and wealth strategist known for helping entrepreneurs, agencies, and practice owners turn thriving businesses into wealth-building engines. Catrina reveals how her Craft Money Map System helps clients cut tax liability by 25 percent and boost profitability by 20 percent — by shifting from reactive accounting to proactive financial strategy. Together, David and Catrina explore: - Why most accountants focus on compliance, not strategy - How to stop overpaying the IRS and start keeping more of what you earn - Tax-saving opportunities for 6-, 7-, and 8-figure firms - Structuring your business for growth, sale, and long-term wealth - How clarity in your financial vision drives confident leadership decisions Whether you’re an AEC firm principal, professional service leader, or growth-minded entrepreneur, this conversation will help you transform how you steward your money, people, and purpose. Listen now to learn how to build lasting wealth with clarity, confidence, and strategy. Connect with Catrina Craft, CPA Website: https://craftmoneymap.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrinamcraft Email: [email protected]

What does it mean to co-think with AI instead of fearing it? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Philip Topham, Board and Executive AI Advisor, founder of CRAFT Thinking, and co-founder of SavionAI. Philip has published more than 130 essays on AI, is completing a new book on CRAFT Thinking, and helps boards and CEOs turn AI disruption into clarity, foresight, and measurable results. David and Philip explore how small-to-mid-sized professional service firms, executives, and boards can move beyond fear and begin leveraging AI as a tool for leadership, decision-making, and growth. Philip explains how AI is best understood as a “co-thinker”—augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it—and how intentional adoption and governance are key to success. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why AI should be seen as a co-thinker to enhance human creativity - How small businesses can integrate AI affordably without massive budgets - The importance of governance and intentionality when adopting AI - Why company culture determines how AI should be applied - How AI can reduce drudgery and free leaders to focus on relationships and growth If you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive wrestling with what AI means for your future, this conversation will help you embrace AI as a leadership advantage rather than a threat. Connect with Philip Topham: Website: http://www.philiptopham.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiptopham Substack: https://savionai.substack.com

How do you tell stories that move people to action? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Jennifer Crosswhite, founder of Tandem Services and an award-winning writer, editor, and ghostwriter. Jennifer helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals harness the power of storytelling to communicate with clarity and impact.  Jennifer shares how her career as a novelist and editor shaped her ability to help others craft authentic, engaging narratives that resonate with audiences. She explains why the story is the most powerful tool for building trust, influencing decisions, and leaving a legacy in both business and leadership.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why the story is the secret to capturing attention and building connection - How to translate complex ideas into narratives people remember - Common mistakes leaders make when telling their story—and how to fix them - Why story-driven communication is critical for influence and brand growth - Practical tips to refine your message and connect with your ideal audience If you’re a leader, consultant, or business owner who wants to engage more deeply with your clients, teams, and market, Jennifer’s insights will help you tell stories that inspire, influence, and endure. Connect with Jennifer Crosswhite: Website: https://www.tandemservicesink.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifercrosswhite

How can small business owners cut through the noise online and create content that actually connects? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Moniek James, digital marketing strategist, speaker, and founder of Renegade Creative Media Group. Moniek helps entrepreneurs and small business leaders build visibility and authority with practical, sustainable content strategies. Moniek shares her journey from military service to marketing leadership, and how she now equips business owners to create digital content that is both authentic and simplified. She explains why content is more than posts or videos—it’s about telling your story in a way that builds trust, resonates with your audience, and drives growth.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why most small businesses struggle to stay consistent online - How to create content that feels authentic and still drives results - The role of strategy vs. tactics in long-term digital marketing - Why clarity of message beats flashy production every time - Practical ways to build authority and visibility on a budget If you’re a business owner, consultant, or entrepreneur overwhelmed by content creation, Moniek’s insights will help you focus on what really matters for digital growth. Connect with Moniek James: Website: https://www.themoniekjames.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniekjames

What does ERP really mean for your business—and why should even small companies care? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Chris Carter, four-time best-selling author, global SAP leader, and founder of Approyo. With more than three decades of experience, Chris has guided companies from $3 million startups to billion-dollar enterprises in implementing ERP systems that unify finance, HR, logistics, and operations into one source of truth. Chris shares his journey from high school entrepreneur to building one of the world’s most recognized SAP service providers. He breaks down why ERP isn’t just for massive corporations, how AI is changing enterprise systems, and what leaders must know to avoid costly mistakes in implementation.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - What ERP and SAP actually mean for scaling a business - Why small and mid-sized companies can benefit from ERP - Common pitfalls in ERP adoption—and how to avoid them - How AI is reshaping ERP and competitive advantage - Why leadership and accountability are essential for success If you’re a business owner, executive, or entrepreneur who wants to scale with clarity and confidence, Chris’s insights will help you embrace systems that drive growth. Connect with Chris Carter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159 Website: https://www.approyo.com

Most business owners eventually hit a ceiling: too many demands, too little time, and a constant pull in every direction. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Justin Lund, entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Propel, about how leaders can break free from bottlenecks and reclaim both their time and their growth. Justin shares his powerful journey—from early success scaling a company to nearly nine figures, to losing tens of millions through poor systems and oversight, to rebuilding his career by helping founders master the essentials of business freedom. Together, David and Justin explore: - Why most entrepreneurs get stuck in cycles of firefighting and burnout - How mindset shifts open the door to sustainable growth - The three-part Founder Freedom Flywheel: mindset, systems, and delegation - Why skipping straight to delegation usually leads to frustration and wasted money - The Delegation Pyramid and why starting with admin, not leadership hires, is the key to scaling - Quick wins that free up hours every week and reduce overwhelm If you’re a founder, consultant, or professional services leader who feels trapped in your own business, this conversation will show you how to reset, regain clarity, and build a business that doesn’t depend entirely on you. Special Resource: DM Justin the word steward on Instagram to receive his free Founder Freedom Playbook—a practical guide with playbooks and checklists to start reclaiming your time today.  Connect with Justin Lund: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjustinlund LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-lund-propel

Many business owners and nonprofit leaders are overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks of running their organizations. From bookkeeping to HR, social media to project management, these critical functions can consume valuable time and energy. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Marney Lumpkin, President of Strategic Management & Logistics, about how outsourcing the right tasks creates clarity, capacity, and confidence for leaders. Marney shares her journey of building a flexible, U.S.-based team dedicated to helping solopreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits scale without burnout. Together, David and Marney explore: - Why outsourcing is the bridge between DIY and building a full internal team - How Strategic Management & Logistics supports clients with bookkeeping, HR, social media, websites, cybersecurity, and more - Why transparency, accountability, and flexibility are essential for building trust - How nonprofits benefit from discounted, values-driven support - Why letting go of the right tasks is a growth strategy, not a weakness If you’re a business owner, consultant, or nonprofit leader feeling stretched too thin, this conversation will show you how to focus on vision, culture, and growth—while leaving the rest to experts. Connect with Marney Lumpkin: Website: https://strategic-management-logistics.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marney-lumpkin

Most business owners treat their website, hosting, and logins as afterthoughts—until something breaks, gets hacked, or a vendor disappears. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr talks with Paige Wiese, founder of Tree Ring Digital, about why your digital presence isn’t just a marketing tool—it’s a critical business asset that can either fuel growth or expose costly risks. Paige shares her journey from launching Tree Ring Digital during the Great Recession to serving over 2,000 clients across various industries. Together, David and Paige explore: - Why ownership of logins, domains, and hosting details is often the #1 blind spot for business owners - How missing logins or expired assets can halt revenue and marketing overnight - The seven pillars of digital asset management that protect long-term growth - How to balance flexibility with consistency when managing websites, CRMs, and integrations - Why proactive digital management saves time, money, and legal headaches If you’re a CEO, consultant, or nonprofit leader building a resilient business, this conversation will help you see your digital presence as a strategic lever—not just a checkbox. Free Resource: Download Tree Ring Digital’s free Digital Asset Checklist at https://treeringdigital.com/roundtable to start identifying gaps and protecting your business today. Connect with Paige Wiese: Website: https://treeringdigital.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigewiese

What if AI could help you think more clearly, lead more effectively, and scale faster—without replacing your human touch? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, David W. Carr speaks with Kyle Becker, Founder of Qualia AI, about the evolving relationship between AI and human leadership. Kyle shares his journey in startup innovation and why he believes AI should serve as a thinking partner rather than a replacement for leaders. This is not hype—it’s a grounded, strategic conversation about where AI meets emotional intelligence, decision-making, and growth. You’ll learn: - What leaders get wrong about using AI - Why AI should assist, not replace, human thinking - How Kyle built Qualia AI to enhance real-world productivity - The importance of systems thinking and decision structure - How to balance technology with timeless leadership values - The ethical challenges and blind spots leaders must confront - Why authenticity still beats automation in client relationships If you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive exploring AI but want to maintain your leadership edge, this episode will help you approach AI as a powerful ally for clarity, efficiency, and growth. Connect with Kyle Becker: Website: https://www.qualiaai.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylejbecker

Is your HR function driving strategy—or just keeping up with compliance? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Mindy Honcoop, HR innovator, advisor, and founder of Agile in HR. With more than 25 years of experience across leadership, social work, and organizational ecosystems, Mindy helps leaders move beyond reactive HR and create workplaces where both people and businesses thrive. Mindy shares how burnout can become a breakthrough when leaders align people, process, and technology. She explains why fear holds back HR leaders, how curiosity opens new solutions, and how to build trust and alignment across fast-growing organizations.  In this conversation, you’ll learn: - Why HR must move from compliance-driven to a future-focused strategy - How to overcome fear and shift toward curiosity and co-creation - The role of trust, alignment, and communication in scaling organizations - Practical ways to integrate people, process, and technology for lasting impact If you’re an HR professional, executive, or business owner, this episode will give you the clarity and tools to create healthier workplace ecosystems and unlock growth. Connect with Mindy Honcoop: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyhoncoop/ Website: https://www.agileinhr.com/

Is email really dead—or are people just doing it wrong? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Ely Delaney, Automated Systems Strategist, author, and founder of Purple Knight Marketing. With over 25 years of experience, Ely helps speakers, coaches, and consultants simplify their marketing, automate their follow-up, and turn contacts into clients without becoming another voice lost in the noise. Ely’s approach focuses on adding value, building trust, and creating human-centered automation. His signature “Follow-Up Fix” ensures that when prospects are ready, you’re the first person they think of. In this conversation, you’ll learn: - Why email marketing still works when done right - How to lead with value instead of pressure tactics - Why automation should feel human, not robotic - How consistent follow-up builds trust and authority - Why most sales are lost due to lack of follow-up, not competition - How to design long-term campaigns that work on autopilot If you’re a business owner, consultant, or speaker looking to create stronger client relationships and free up time with smart systems, Ely’s insights will show you how to follow up the right way. Connect with Ely Delaney: Website: https://elydelaney.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elydelaney Free Resource:https://connectwithely.com

What if the biggest drag on your business isn’t the market—but the friction you’re creating inside your own company? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Ryan Chute, Partner at Wizard of Ads® for Essential Services and founder of America’s Favorite Essential Home Services. Ryan shares his journey from being a “tyrant manager” in retail to becoming a relational, brand-forward leader after discovering the Wizard of Ads principles. Today, he helps essential service contractors (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) grow 4–10X by aligning brand, story, and culture while eliminating friction that slows down growth.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why most growth plateaus are caused by internal friction, not external factors - How transactional leadership damages culture and customer experience - Why brand and culture are inseparable in creating sustainable growth - The difference between quick-fix marketing and holistic strategy - How to prepare your company to scale—or even exit profitably - Practical steps to shift from short-term thinking to legacy building If you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive who wants to remove friction, align your culture with your brand, and scale with confidence, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need. Connect with Ryan Chute: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wizardryanchute Wizard of Ads®: https://wizardofads.org

How do you turn pain into purpose and create a life of authenticity and freedom? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr sits down with Aaron Mastny, founder of Inner Alchemy and leader of the Rebirth Retreat Center in South Carolina. Aaron shares his powerful story of moving from addiction, trauma, and shame to healing, transformation, and authentic leadership. Aaron’s journey—from heroin addiction and survival mode to coaching men and women in reclaiming wholeness—offers raw insights into the power of courage, vulnerability, and connection. Today, he helps people break cycles of survival, regulate their nervous systems, and step into true identity with love and purpose.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - How trauma and unprocessed emotions shape behaviors and leadership - Why men must move beyond the “lone wolf” mindset to brotherhood and connection - How nervous system regulation and emotional awareness drive resilience - Why vulnerability is a gateway to authentic influence, not weakness - Practical tools for facing shame, fear, and hidden pain head-on If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or individual seeking deeper purpose and freedom, Aaron’s story will inspire you to stop running from your pain and start leading with authenticity. Connect with Aaron Mastny: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamaaronyou Linktree: https://linktr.ee/aaronyou

What does it take to lead with clarity, build trust, and create a lasting culture in business? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr sits down with Jim Bramlett, Vistage Chair, author of The Unconventional Thinking of Dominant Companies, and a serial entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience. Jim has started seven companies, navigated both failure and success, and now coaches executives through growth, leadership, and succession challenges. Jim explains why peer groups like Vistage provide leaders with the safe space, accountability, and insights they can’t find anywhere else. He shares stories of business transformation, leadership lessons, and practical insights on how executives can grow healthier companies while avoiding burnout.  In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why the best leaders are vulnerable, coachable, and lifelong learners - How self-limiting beliefs hold leaders back from their full potential - Why culture is intentional—and becomes your biggest competitive advantage - The importance of coaching and developing mid-level leaders for growth - Why every executive needs trusted peers to avoid isolation at the top If you’re a CEO, consultant, or executive leader who wants to scale without sacrificing your health or culture, this episode will challenge you to think differently and lead with greater clarity. Connect with Jim Bramlett: Website: https://jimbramlett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbramlett1

How do you solve your most challenging business problems and influence others in a way that lasts? In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Tara Landes, founder of Bellrock Benchmarking and Licensed Influence Trainer with The Cialdini Institute. With more than 25 years of experience advising over 300 business leaders, Tara has helped organizations implement lasting change, train managers to become confident leaders, and apply the psychology of ethical influence to achieve sustainable growth. Tara combines practical consulting with science-backed methods, showing leaders how to stop firefighting and start creating healthier companies. She explains why influence is at the heart of leadership—41% of your workday is spent influencing others, whether you realize it or not—and how small, intentional changes can yield significant results. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why most business problems aren’t unique—and how to solve them faster - How habits, fear, and perspective keep leaders from lasting change - What ethical influence really means and how to apply it effectively - Why celebrating progress is critical for motivation and retention - How small changes in leadership behavior create outsized results If you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive who wants to lead with greater clarity and influence, this conversation will show you how to unlock new levels of leadership and results. Connect with Tara Landes: Website: https://bellrock.ca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taralandes