The Courageous Podcast with Ryan Berman

Nicole Zube’s journey is one defined by grit, growth, and transformation. As the EVP and Chief HR Officer at SpartanNash, Nicole leads with integrity and a commitment to making an impact, particularly through fostering a "People First" culture. In her conversation with Ryan, she shares how embracing challenges, taking on tough jobs, and remaining coachable has shaped her career. Nicole also discusses her “four G’s” —Growth, Grit, Gratitude, and Greatness—and the powerful impact these core values have on both personal and team development. Together, they explore the complexities of transforming the culture of a century-old company and the rewarding process of helping associates feel heard, included, and valued.

Ryan asked me to write this intro myself since my writing gets credit and blame for a lot of things in my life. I was born and raised in San Diego, the city often written off as the souvenir cup of California. When my writing career managed not to flop and I landed a gig on Food Network, every agent or manager much smarter than me said the same thing. “If you wanna have a shot, you’ve got to move to New York.” Probably great advice. But I politely declined each time because if every creative person who had ambition moved away to “make it,” San Diego would just be a cultural wasteland, a resort with a city on it. What if some of us stayed and helped build a culture—told the stories of its people and the work being done? So in 2021 my wife and I decided to become the new owners of a 75 year-old, beloved media company, San Diego Magazine, and got to work transforming it into a modern media thing. It was a total rebuild, coming out of a global pandemic. The week we signed the papers, our son was born. We launched a massive festival. We launched a creative studio for brands. We micro-napped. Now? Thank all the gods, it’s growing. This is our story.

Craig Dubitsky has built a career out of turning everyday products into something people can’t help but love. As the Co-founder & CEO of happy™ Products and the mind behind hello® products, Craig shares with Ryan how he made the pivotal decision to focus solely on his mission and cut out the other noise in his entrepreneurial mind. He explores the difference between FOMO (fear of missing out) and FONT (fear of not trying), a mindset instilled by his mother’s constant encouragement to “just try.” Craig emphasizes the power of creativity in business, revealing that intention only becomes magic once it’s put into action. He also talks about his business relationship with Robert Downey Jr. and their shared mission to spread mental health awareness through their partnership with NAMI.

Katie McKenna, a professional speaker, leadership coach, and bestselling author, turned a life-altering accident into a powerful story of resilience. On a sunny morning in Brooklyn, Katie was run over by an 18-wheeler, an ordeal that she miraculously survived after 10 hours of emergency surgery. In her conversation with Ryan, Katie recounts that harrowing day and the moment she was told she might never walk again, a prognosis that led her to change the way her doctor delivers life-altering news. Now, with a mission to make life better for everyone she meets, Katie shares how she channels her experience into helping others overcome their own challenges with grit, hope, and humor. She also reveals whether she would change her past if given the chance and why she fiercely pursues joy, feeling blessed rather than entitled to life. And yes, she has gotten back on a bike—at Burning Man, no less, in an unforgettable moment of reclaiming her power.

If you could pick up your phone right now and call the 18 year old version of yourself, what advice or feedback would you give that 1.0 person? On this episode, Danita Johnson, a member of Sports Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and ESSENCE Power 40 Class of 2023, shares her answers. Danita, currently serving as the President of Business Operations for D.C. United, is the first Black President of an MLS Club. She is on a mission to make D.C. United one of the premier clubs in all of sports, focusing on both on-field success and off-field community impact. In this conversation with Ryan, she also shares her mantra, and how it guides her in controlling what she can while driving her ambitious vision for the club. Danita also offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of running an MLS team and how her club goes about celebrating victories across the organization.

Courageous or Outrageous? Does spirituality have a place in the workplace? Denise Lee Yohn and Steven Morris, two of the most respected voices in brand leadership and corporate culture, believe the answer is a yes. Denise, an in-demand keynote speaker and bestselling author of What Great Brands Do, and Steven, a brand and culture-building expert behind The Beautiful Business, bring decades of experience to this thought-provoking discussion. Together, they delve into the growing demand among millennials for companies that reflect their core values and the courage it takes to foster a workplace where employees feel safe to express their spirituality. Drawing on their extensive expertise, they offer a compelling argument for why integrating soul and purpose into business is not just possible, but essential for creating magnetic, sustainable organizations.Does Spirituality Belong at Work? Read the mentioned article here!

Jeremy Lowenstein, a global brand strategist and marketing visionary, has been instrumental in catapulting Milani to the forefront of the beauty industry as the leading multicultural brand. His experience at beauty giants like Aveda and Sally Hansen has equipped him with a unique ability to craft compelling brand stories that resonate across diverse markets. In his conversation with Ryan, Jeremy talks about how his approach to inclusivity is inherent to Milani’s DNA, allowing it to resonate effortlessly across 40 countries. He also discusses how TikTok and strategic partnerships, like the one with Olympic athlete Jordan Chiles, have amplified Milani’s message worldwide. Jeremy also shares why makeup is not about changing who you are but embracing and enhancing your true self, offering valuable advice (to Ryan and others) on how to communicate this to the next generation.

Sportbike racer, track & field All-American, multi-patent holder, biometric lab creator, The Wall Street Journal’s Marketers That Matter Visionaries, and Adweek’s 50 Most Important People are just a few of Walter Geer’s self-earned accolades. Currently the Chief Creative Officer of Innovation at VML, he has developed commercials, ad experiences, products and implemented creative strategies for brands including Progressive, Advil, and Google. In his conversation with Ryan, Walter shares his surreal and harrowing experience of surviving a stroke, the life-saving decision to take an experimental drug, and the pivotal role his wife played in his survival. The two also explore his groundbreaking work as a founder of Blackweek, an inclusive conference and economic forum driving opportunities for diverse businesses and professionals. Tune in to this episode to discover Walter's insights on the evolving role of creative leadership and the fearless approach required to make meaningful change.

Be fierce with the fierce. Scot Chisholm is a four-time founder with over 20 years of experience in building and leading companies. He founded Classy, which he scaled to over $100 million in revenue and led significant strategic investments and acquisitions, including the sale of Classy to GoFundMe in 2022. Currently, Scot is building Highland, a private accelerator and community designed to support and elevate startup CEOs and founders. In his conversation with Ryan, Scot highlights some of the key moments throughout his journey as a leader, with the theme of resilience at the forefront of his story. Scot speaks on the value of having a co-founder when starting a company, and also gives his opinion on the importance of friendship and family in business partnerships. The two also discuss the concept of “speed to truth” when trying to resolve difficult conflicts, and Scot explains some of the successful strategies he’s implemented at his organizations to make sure all employees are heard and valued. Learn more about Scot here!

Kevin Swanepoel is CEO of The One Club, the world's foremost non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating the global creative community. Through The One Club, he directs prestigious award shows like the One Show, ADC Annual Awards, and Young Guns, as well as several education related initiatives. In his conversation with Ryan, Kevin stresses the importance of taking initiative without waiting for permission, sharing a compelling story about securing funding for a diversity focused education initiative. The two explore the notion that courage inspires more courage, while fear breeds fear, and discuss the necessity of persistence and adaptability when trying out new ideas. Kevin also advises those entering the advertising industry to leverage AI as a powerful tool rather than fear it, and highlights the significance of finding a post-COVID balance that enhances workplace happiness and fosters human connection.

Molly Tschang helps senior management and their teams Win As One. She has helped executives navigate over 80 mergers and acquisitions and the human after-effects of intense change. In her conversation with Ryan, Molly shares her notion that to be a good leader is to be a good coach. She points out that good leaders really want to know the truth, and why having a ‘shared reality’ between all levels of an organization is paramount in performing at the highest possible level. Finally, Molly gives advice to not let the fear of saying something ‘perfectly’ hold us back from communicating openly, and why we need to make peace with the things we really can’t change.

“Defining myself / Is like confining myself / So I undefined myself / To find myself”. IN-Q is an Emmy nominated poet, multi-platinum songwriter, world renowned keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within. The Never Ending Now, his recent spoken word album and poetry journal, explore the importance of creativity for emotional and mental well-being. In his conversation with Ryan, the two dive into the dichotomy of being a macro-optimist and micro-pessimist while finding anchors to the world to keep you grounded. They discuss the courage it takes to put out a creation into the world that is truly raw and authentic to oneself, and the benefits of pursuing personal growth and maintaining a student mindset as you age, especially when you begin to feel calcified in your ways.

Good leaders truly listen. Stephen Shedletzky, or “Shed” to his friends, helps leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak up. A sought-after speaker, coach, and advisor, Shed has led hundreds of keynote presentations, workshops, and leadership development programs around the world. In his conversation with Ryan, Shed speaks on some of his early inspirations that set a foundation for his current career inspiring bravery in others, including the courageous tale of his Holocaust surviving Grandfather. Shed explains how to take steps towards embracing a speak-up culture, reminding leaders to both encourage people to speak up, and reward them when they do. The two also discuss how it becomes harder to get the truth from employees the higher up the leadership rank you get, and discuss why leadership cannot be claimed, it must be earned.

Brad Montague is creator of the hit web series Kid President and author of Becoming Better Grownups, the New York Times best sellers Kid President’s Guide to Being Awesome and The Circles All Around Us. All of Brad’s work has been guided by one key phrase: ‘be who you needed when you were younger’. In his conversation with Ryan, Brad reflects on his role as a “helper” and how his mission to make goodness attractive has landed him in the company of Beyoncé, Steven Martin, and President Obama. Brad also gives listeners priceless advice on moving from dreaming to doing, and reminds us that we become more courageous the more we live in our hearts.

Eric Ryan is a serial entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and father. He is the co-founder of multiple household brands including method, OLLY, Welly, Cast, and WILL Perform. Eric has been named an eco-leader by Vanity Fair, was PETA's Person of the Year, and can be found on Fortune’s 40 under 40 list. In their conversation, Eric gives listeners an inside look on what it takes to be a serial entrepreneur. He provides candid advice on how to avoid the “sophomore slump” coming off a successful venture. He also shares his motivation behind seeking out negative feedback as a first step to any new project. Or, as Eric likes to say to himself when entering a board room: Improve yourself, don’t prove yourself. Ryan and Eric cover a lot of ground in this conversational edition including how Eric recognizes that entering a flow state when discussing an idea is a good sign that he may have a winner.

Count your Mondays. Jodi Wellman is a Speaker, Author, and Founder of Four Thousand Mondays where she isn’t afraid to stare death in the face in the pursuit of living her most fulfilling life. As the author of "You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets", Jodi tackles the lively topic of mortality to help people make the most of their lives while they're still lucky to be above ground. In her conversation with Ryan, Jodi speaks about how a stapler changed the course of her life, and how she took the “now steps” to make her dreams become reality. The two touch on the concept of “pregrets” and why birthdays can be a good barometer in measuring how happy we are. Throughout the episode, Jodi gives valuable advice on ways to make immediate changes in an effort to start living “like you mean it” and preventing delayed frustration for your future self..

You can see it, you can be it. Artis Stevens is President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) – the nation’s foremost one-to-one youth mentoring organization. As the first Black CEO in BBBSA’s 100+ year history, Artis is spearheading a powerful mission to leverage mentorship as a transformative solution to society’s greatest challenges – from equity and access to justice and opportunity. In his discussion with Ryan, Artis speaks on the power of relationships to make positive change in young people's lives, and explains why mentoring as your authentic self is the best approach, reminding listeners that a mentor does not have to be perfect, but they must be present. He explains the benefits and challenges of leading a 120 year old brand, where some people have preconceived notions about what the organization is and isn’t. Recently named one of the Top 10 non-profits in the U.S., Artis is on a mission not to just inform people about BBBSA, but make it relevant to individuals and inspire them to get involved in helping some of the millions of children in the U.S. that lack a positive adult mentor.

Get ready for an electrifying episode of The Courageous Podcast with your host, Ryan Berman! Today, we're joined by the brilliant Cheryl Goodman, a renowned tech expert and leading authority in artificial intelligence. In a world where many are fearful of AI's rapid advancements, Cheryl's insights and innovations offer a beacon of understanding and optimism. Today, she unveils her latest masterpiece, "How to Win Friends and Influence Robots." Don’t miss this fascinating conversation as we delve into the future of AI and explore the groundbreaking ideas in her new book, out today! PS. AI wrote this podcast teaser.

The Niche is You. Matt Gottesman is a multidisciplinary creative, 2x founder, podcaster and writer with a background in helping some of the world’s most iconic brands (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) realize their potential… digitally. His mission is to uncomplicate life and business and help millions do more of what they love at scale. In his conversation with Ryan, they explore the concept of seeking approval from others, with Matt emphasizing that acceptance is inherent from birth. He also shares practical advice and strategies from his own life, detailing systems he uses to live meaningfully and efficiently. If you're interested in learning how to reverse engineer work, rest, play and money for less chasing and more financial freedom and flow, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

At 16, Mandy Salas was a nationally ranked soccer player, eagerly preparing to submit college applications and step into the next exciting phase of her life. All signs were a go to continue her soccer career — most likely at Stanford — until an event occurring during a summer trip to Argentina abruptly altered this trajectory. In her candid conversation with Ryan, Mandy reflects on her time in Argentina, the accident that left her a quadriplegic, and the profound adjustments she had to accept of her new reality. Mandy candidly shares the challenges she faced returning to America, grappling with a loss of identity and struggling to find her place among her peers without the ability to compete athletically. Despite these obstacles, Mandy’s story is one of perseverance! Now, married with two kids of her own, we discover that Mandy is on a mission to convey that the human spirit remains strong in all of us.

Start with what brings you alive. Kirk Souder is the Founder at Leadership for Impact, where he guides people and organizations to free themselves from any self-created limitations and barriers, and connects them to the deep authentic energy underneath. In his conversation with Ryan, Kirk delves into the depths of his personal journey, from confronting mortality at just 18 years old to unraveling the dichotomy between conditioned and unconditioned intelligence. The two discuss the transformative power of embracing life's transitions and shedding limiting beliefs to ignite the fire within, and Kirk describes what it means to be a relentless reflection for his clients.

When you appreciate the good, the good appreciates. These are the words of Brian Dubow who is the Founder and CEO of Hit of Happiness. In this conversation, Ryan and Brian unpack Ryan's week long “Happiness Challenge” which was a response to the World Happiness Report recently unveiling the United States now outside the top 20 in happiest countries. With the intent of helping listeners get small wins on their path to happy, Ryan pressure tests his four-step challenge by Brian. Brian also adds one key challenge into the mix while sharing how long it takes each of us to enter into “flow state”. Through their discussion, they highlight the value of cherishing moments and mastering the mind to swiftly turn a bad day into a good one.

“If I’m not scared, I don’t know that I want to be doing it.” Amanda Dunks loves living outside her comfort zone. As Senior Vice President of Brand Strategy and Creative Development at Caesars Entertainment, she's been making waves in the gaming world for over 12 years. In her conversation with Ryan, Amanda shares her insights from navigating mergers, emphasizing the value of learning through trial by fire and the abandonment of the pursuit of perfection. She discusses her approach to hiring, prioritizing potential over credentials, and the delicate balance between agency-like creativity and corporate structure. Amanda also explores the intersection of brand strategy and creative development, highlighting the importance of visionary leadership and practical implementation. Don't miss Amanda's advice to embrace fear as a sign of growth and her encouragement for authenticity in business, reminding listeners to pursue what they love.

Leader. Fighter. Athlete. Believer. TV Personality. Purveyor of Human Rights. Mexican professional soccer star Janelly Farias is a powerhouse on and off the pitch. At 34 years old, she is thriving as a professional soccer player, defying odds and stereotypes in the male-dominated world of Mexican sports while currently playing center-mid for club Juárez in the Liga MX Femenil. With resilience for a backbone, she shares her winding journey navigating injuries and familial rejection while staying true to herself as a strong gay woman. Janelly and Ryan delve into the importance of keeping it real in the era of curated social media personas. Tune in as Janelly reflects on her mantra of embracing challenges fearlessly, knowing that true greatness lies beyond the confines of comfort.

In today's ever-changing work landscape, being adaptable is more important than ever. Corey and his team at PrismWork specialize in helping brands and leaders navigate the complexities of modern leadership, creating inclusive environments where everyone can succeed. Recently taking on his brave new role as CEO, Corey chats with Ryan about how he balances staying connected with his team while handling his endless list of responsibilities. He opens up about the challenge of stepping out of his comfort zone, a journey that ultimately helped him grow. Throughout this conversation, Corey talks about how he is fully embracing every opportunity in front of him with courage. Corey also shares what’s behind PrismWork’s proprietary HEARTI leadership assessment and stresses the significance of having diverse teams to avoid falling into echo chambers.

Hailing from the UK, Nick Bell's childhood consisted of collecting soccer stickers of his favorite athletes. As an adult, he’s transitioned this passion to trading cards, reigning as CEO of Fanatics Live, the foremost platform for sports card breaking. Having previously held positions at tech giants Google and Snap, Nick delves into how he's using data to capitalize on the resurgence of the collectible trading card market. Ryan and Nick explore the intricacies of building relationships with iconic figures like LeBron James and reflect on Nick's experiences at Snap, including the complexities of taking the company public and the invaluable lessons learned, such as the importance of reverse-engineering goals to achieve success.

Wayne Partello's journey is a testament of his versatility, persistence and resilience. Spanning from his graduation from the police academy at 19 to establishing a thriving DJ business, and later, a decade-long stint in sports with the Miami Dolphins and the San Diego Padres, Wayne now has a business of his own as the founder of his growing marketing firm, CUENTO. In his conversation with Ryan, the two swap stories of "figure-it-out-ability," advocating for patience and perseverance when tackling lofty goals. Later in the episode, Ryan and Wayne exchange insights on the indispensable role of courageous leaders and the importance of embracing individuality in the business landscape.

While most of us were sleeping, the San Diego Padres were kicking off a new season on the other side of the world this week in South Korea. Joining them for the first of 150 baseball games he’ll witness this year is seasoned sports journalist Kevin Acee. With over 30 years of experience, Acee remains a road warrior as the Padres beat writer at The San Diego Union-Tribune. Despite his extensive career, baseball remains his true passion, marveling at the privilege of watching, writing, and discussing the game he loves. In this discussion, Acee shares how he churns out 3,000 words a day while navigating the demands of an eight-month Padres season.

Imagine spending a career helping brands figure out who they were only to wake up one day in a panic wondering who you were? Bonnie Wan, a powerhouse in the brand strategy world, experienced just this. While she has made a living molding narratives for Pepsi, BMW, and California Milk Processor Board ‘Got Milk?’, more recently she found herself in need of locking in her own powerful narrative. Hence, “The Life Brief” was born. Now? Her bestselling book, ‘The Life Brief’, derived from her experience aligning iconic brands with their core values, helps those who are willing achieve greater clarity, creativity and courage. In this lively conversation with Ryan, we learn how Bonnie is helping people realize they cannot have it all; but they can have all that matters.

Michael Bungay Stanier is at the forefront of shaping how organizations around the world make being coach-like an essential leadership competency. He is the author behind The Coaching Habit, the best-selling coaching book of the century. His most recent book, How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, shows how to build the Best Possible Relationship with the key people at work. In his conversation with Ryan, Michael dives into some of his best advice for writing a “really good” book that not only educates readers, but gives them an audible chuckle in the process. He also shares his next daring adventure, climbing the fiery volcano known as Cotopaxi, and reveals the secrets of nurturing ideas to fruition by letting them “ripen” on the vine. Throughout the episode, Michael reminds us that the greatest risks often yield the most rewarding outcomes and that "You're awesome and you're doing great."

From exploring the farthest reaches of the planet to experiencing a life-changing accident, Albert Lin’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and unwavering courage. Albert is, quite literally, a modern-day high-tech explorer, blurring the boundaries between man and machine while redefining how we explore our own humanity. In his conversation with Ryan, Albert takes listeners on an awe-inspiring journey through his life and adventures, from sleeping in his car to save money, to near-death experiences while scuba diving with actor Will Smith. Lin shares how his upbringing shaped his perspective on life and adventure, drawing from his childhood experiences growing up around the world with a father who was an astrophysicist and a mother who was an actress and musician. Later in the episode, the two discuss the different depths of courage, and Albert gives listeners a behind the scenes peak of a few of his TV and Film projects including National Geographic’s Forbidden Tomb of Genghis Khan and Lost Cities with Albert Lin.

It’s 3:30am. While most of us are still asleep, Tom Braun is in mid routine running his daily 5 miles, contemplating what it takes to push boundaries, win over Los Angeles, and redefine success in the world of Major League Soccer. In this episode of The Courageous Podcast, Ryan sits down with Tom as he prepares for a new MLS season - his first as President of the LA Galaxy. Tom and team kick off their season this Sunday at home against none other than Inter Miami, Lionel Messi and David Beckham. Reflecting on his journey since 2014, Braun isn’t just aware…but up for the challenge…to doing what is necessary to bring the LA Galaxy back into glory; without resting on its laurels of their glory days. Tom opens up about how he’ll go about driving this change, even if it means ruffling a few feathers along the way.

Blasting their satellites into space? Just another day for Viasat; a company known for consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. Whether pioneering the latest advancements in satellite technology or extending high-speed internet access to remote and underserved regions, recent Vice Chairman Rick Baldridge has been an indispensable and straight-shooting force at Viasat over the past two decades. In his conversation with Ryan, Rick offers a glimpse into his incredible career at Viasat, diving into his belief in fostering a meritocratic culture where groundbreaking ideas can emerge from any corner of the organization while turning the seemingly impossible into reality. Inspired by Rick’s recent retirement from Viasat a few months back, the two dive into the importance of having a “balanced busy” schedule that allows time for things like sitting on boards (such as Viasat) while still finding time to take a few grandkids to school.

As the President and CEO of College Track, the nation's foremost college completion program, Dr. Shirley Collado is realizing her dream of advancing equity and educational justice for underserved students and communities. With a distinguished background as President Emerita of Ithaca College, where she became its first president of color, Dr. Collado brings a wealth of experience and leadership to her mission. In their conversation, Dr. Collado and Ryan delve into the imperative need for courageous and visionary leaders in higher education, particularly as society redefines the norms of intelligence and academic achievement for future generations. They explore empowering young individuals with the autonomy to shape their career trajectories, underscoring the importance of agency in navigating one's professional journey. To end the episode, Dr. Collado gives a surprising answer to Ryan’s question about what success looks like for College Track in 30 years.

As the official soft drink of the NBA and WNBA, you've likely encountered the vibrant yellow and green Starry logo gracing sidelines and megatrons nationwide. Serving as the Head of Brand Marketing for Starry at PepsiCo, Michael Smith stands as a pivotal force behind the innovative partnerships that have propelled Starry to its current rapid success. Engaging in a conversation with Ryan, Michael delves into the strategic choice of the NBA as the brand's launch partner and shares insights on the nuances of marketing for an established brand compared to a nascent one—a perspective shaped by his experience on both ends of the spectrum. Michael also sheds light on the art of curating a team with the optimal blend of in-house talent and partner agencies, articulating why saturating the digital landscape with a diverse array of content is the key strategy for brands navigating the complexities of today's social media terrain.

Bill Neff loves a good adventure. As VP of Strategic Partnerships and Customer Experience at YETI, he's on a quest for two R’s: Realness and Relevance. In this episode of the Courageous Podcast, Bill and Ryan delve into the art of forging genuine connections with audiences. They get into details about certain tactics and strategies Bill has successfully implemented in his role at YETI, contributing to the brand's evolution from a hunting and fishing-centric company to the household name it is today. Among the key themes discussed are the nuanced distinctions between brand-awareness and brand-trust, uncovering a product's unexpected relevance in niche markets, and the imperative for brands to prioritize people over data.

Listed among the "30 Most Creative Women in Advertising" by Business Insider, Xanthe Wells is a driving force wherever she may be. Since joining Pinterest (from Google) in November 2022, Xanthe has been a key player behind the brand's creative evolution, introducing a new era of product-focused creative endeavors that have not only elevated the quality standard but also bolstered Pinterest's standing in the industry. In a candid conversation with host Ryan Berman, Xanthe delves into the dynamic landscape of the creative industry, emphasizing the growing significance for brands to embrace creativity with unwavering courage. The discussion goes beyond the surface, exploring the nuanced interplay between "book smart" and emotional intelligence within working teams. Finally, Xanthe and Ryan delve deep into the need for companies to embrace creativity in all facets of business — not simply what ends up in a positioning statement, on social media or an advertisement.

Brad Meltzer is an Emmy-nominated, #1 New York Times bestselling author, screenwriter, and host of his own TV Show on the History Channel. He is one of the only authors to ever have books on the bestseller list for Non-Fiction, Advice, Children’s Books, and even comic books, for which he won the prestigious Eisner Award. In his conversation with Ryan, Brad speaks on how the words “Sorry, kiddo” have helped provide motivation throughout his writing career. Brad also touches on his belief that regular people have the potential to make major changes on the planet, and how the best stories tell you something about yourself. Finally, the two discuss having the courage to admit what you love, and Brad tells an incredible story of chance that brought him back to a particular spot in New York City’s Penn Station.

John Assaraf is a 2x NY Times Best Selling Author, has been featured in 11 movies including “The Secret”, and is the CEO of NeuroGym, a neuroscience based coaching and training company that helps members strengthen their mindset and skills to achieve their biggest goals. In his conversation with Ryan, John gives an overview of his journey from a troublesome high schooler on the brink of academic failure to the epitome of success and discipline. John also speaks on the importance of rehearsing for both positive and negative outcomes when taking courageous risks, and discusses the idea that “practice makes permanent” when making transformative life changes. Finally, John explains the Frankenstein and an Einstein dichotomy of our brains, and gives advice to listeners about how to work with both to achieve their goals.

We’re excited for our second annual Year End Special where we switch things up a bit. This year Ryan is joined by his two partners at Courageous; Nicole Miller and Billy Collins. Together, they’ll represent the three pillars of Courage: Knowledge (Billy), Faith (Ryan), and Action (Nicole) as they are joined by three MYSTERY guests. Taking a cue from Smartless, each mystery guest will have an opportunity to both ask, and be asked, surprise questions. Some of the many topics covered include taking leaps into the unknown, unifying humans — no matter their home — through humor, and a discussion on the need for resolutions. Enjoy the episode and Happy New Year from the Courageous Podcast!

“Dance! Nothing left for me to do but dance. Off these bad times I'm going through, just dance!”- JamiroquaiMom. Marketer. Ball Room Dancer. Care-giving Nurse? In a blink, much had to change in the life of the multi-talented, marketing extraordinaire Erin Levzow since her last appearance on the Courageous Podcast. At work, she left tacos for a sweeter treat, now serving as the CMO at MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM where she helps all transcend into play to create unforgettable memories. As we must never forget, there’s an entire life happening behind the laptop at home. In Erin’s case, she and her family were thrown into a traumatic incident involving her husband’s fall over a 12 foot high banister that put him in a life-threatening coma. On this episode, Erin shares her whirlwind of hardships, triumphs, and how she kept herself sane by dancing the best she could through it all.

Discovering what lights you up can be a dark journey. Mary Olson-Menzel helps leaders by shining a flashlight on their path to help them illuminate where they want to go. As an Expert Coach, Facilitator, Speaker, and Author, Mary excels in fostering businesses grounded in profound connections, excellence, and sustained inspiration. In her conversation with Ryan, Mary delves into the art of cutting through the noise to gain crystal-clear insights into leadership aspirations. The two explore the concept of 'coachability,' emphasizing the pivotal role of an open mind in leadership growth. To cap it off, Mary shares her musings on the ideal actor to portray her in the cinematic portrayal of her life.

Starting his career as an Aerospace Engineer where he launched 84 astronauts into space, Neal Bloom now spends his time launching tech companies. As a Managing Partner at Interlock Capital, Neal helps find, evaluate, fund, and support the best technology companies through their venture fund and angel investor syndicate. In his conversation with Ryan, Neal drops lots of gems for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. He touches on the notion that not all money is created equal, reminding listeners to take the time to find an investor that will go “beyond the check” for your business. Neal also delves into the intricacies of his decision-making process, shedding light on how he meticulously gathers and analyzes diverse data points to arrive at the most informed decisions.

Change is an inevitable force, and over the span of 16 years, Ruth Hughes has witnessed a significant transformation both in the world and her career at Kellanova (formerly Kellogg's). Currently serving as the General Manager in Europe of High Growth Markets, Ruth oversees operations across 28 countries, steering the ship for iconic brands such as Pringles, Rice Krispies, and Pop Tarts, among many others. Connecting with Ryan from her home in Ireland, Ruth sheds light on the intricacies of managing a diverse array of teams, many of whom communicate in languages other than English as their primary tongue. Ruth imparts valuable workplace wisdom, emphasizing the importance of listening to understand rather than merely responding, among other priceless insights. To cap it off, Ruth shares what raised her eyebrows in a major way from her recent trip to California.

What’s it like to board a rocket ship? Just ask Morgan Buehler Zanotti. Morgan was in the flight deck as Co-Founder & President of Primal Kitchen through its explosive growth from 0-50 million in just 3 years. In her conversation with host Ryan Berman, Morgan takes us on the journey from her plans to start a surf-yoga retreat in South America, to leading Primal Kitchen’s acquisition by Kraft-Heinz in 2018. Almost five years to the day of the purchase, Morgan recounts the plan she and her co-founder had going into the business, and how they successfully followed through on their vision. Morgan also opens up about her imposter syndrome, her inability to NOT say exactly what’s on her mind (at all times) and gives listeners actionable advice on connecting with the right individuals that can help take their business to the next level.

0-7 at home the year before. The 2nd and 3rd pick of last year's NFL draft. A first time Head Coach. The Houston Texans seemed to be moving in the wrong direction. At best? A slow cooked rebuild that could take 1000 days. But the NFL and its fans learned fast that this was anything but the truth. On this episode of The Courageous Podcast, we get a front row seat to witness a revamped culture that have helped land the 5-4 Texans in the smack of a playoff hunt. We're joined by Chief Marketing & Ticket Sales Officer Doug Vosik who shares what has been going on behind the scenes in H-Town including a few landmark choices (See: drafting C.J. Stroud) that have helped the organization win on the field and in the community.

Over the past 4 years, Andrew Vassiliadis has been living a love story. Serving as Chairman of the San Diego Loyal SC, a team that was founded with soccer legend Landon Donovan, Andrew remained loyal to his mission of bringing professional soccer back to San Diego. In a candid conversation with Ryan, Andrew shares “all the feels” including his courageous decision to sunset his club with the arrival of a new San Diego MLS franchise set to debut in 2025. As the team played its final match on October 22, 2023, Ryan and Andrew took a celebratory stroll down Loyal Lane allowing Andrew to cap tip many of the stakeholders who helped “grow loyalty” for the greater good of San Diego’s community. If you wanted to come behind the scenes of building a professional soccer club or merely were curious of what Andrew Vassiliadis might do next (from San Diego), join us.

At the tender age of 11, Christopher Knight was a ubiquitous presence on small screens across America, portraying the iconic character Peter Brady. Fast forward to today, and Christopher has embarked on a new cinematic journey as the Co-founder of Former Prodigy Media, a production company he established alongside the two-time Emmy Award-nominated producer, Phil Viardo. In his conversation with host Ryan Berman, Christopher offers listeners an exclusive glimpse into his latest endeavor, "Truelove: The Film," a critically acclaimed feature documentary centered around a rare genetic disorder known as Williams syndrome. Christopher also touches on how his child-acting days shaped his philosophy towards life, learning lessons from both his on and off-screen families. Finally, the two delve into the significance of seeking and feeling validation, and underscore the pivotal role of humor as one of life's most invaluable qualities.

Be the change. Meryl Rosenthal is the CEO and Co-founder of FlexPaths, a company that has chaperoned meaningful change within organizations such as Guardian, Ameritas, The Greater Boston Food Bank, and many more. For over two decades, Meryl and her team have brought future-of-work innovation, inspiration, and agility to today’s workplaces, advocating for flexible work before it was “cool”. In her conversation with Ryan, Meryl speaks on the many courageous moves leaders had to make during the pandemic, and gives a warning to companies who are quick to go back to their old non-flexible working ways. The two dive into the importance of leadership development for managers who often bear the brunt of stress from both employees and higher ranking executives. Finally, Meryl discusses a real-life situation where she had the courage to tell a client the truth when it wasn't easy.

Why interrupt the entertainment when you can create it? Jae Goodman is Founder and CEO of Superconnector Studios, a Management Consultancy, Brand Entertainment Producer, and Talent-Led-Consumer-Product Accelerator. His thesis that brands can create entertainment has earned him thirty-six Cannes Lions, seventeen Webby awards, four Emmys from twelve Emmy nominations, and four Gold Effies including the coveted David vs. Goliath. In his conversation with host Ryan Berman, Jae gives an overview of his incredible career journey working for legends like Warren Miller and Bill Graham, and sharing many lessons he’s learned along the way. The two also debate the importance of awards in the advertising and creative fields, and unpack the three T’s that Jae feels describe him best - Talkative, Tenacious, and Tireless.