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My guest for Episode #310 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Andrew Laws, Founder of the SEO agency Yeseo IO and host of The Business Amplifier Podcast. Andrew has been working in digital marketing for over 25 years and has seen just about every shift in the SEO landscape. But one of the biggest lessons of his career came not from Google’s algorithm, but from a catastrophic business event involving hackers, a two-year police investigation, and a decision that changed everything.
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Andrew shares the harrowing story of building a successful web hosting company—only to have it destroyed by cybercriminals just as he was preparing to sell it. The hackers didn’t just crash servers—they triggered legal threats, emotional exhaustion, and a complete shutdown of Andrew’s businesses at the time. But through that painful chapter, Andrew found clarity. He realized he had been doing too much alone and needed to build smarter, more resilient systems—and a team he could trust.
In our conversation, Andrew talks candidly about burnout, delegation, and how the right mistake can become a turning point. He also shares practical insights into what SEO really is (and isn’t) in 2025, why many people misunderstand Google’s algorithms, and why "doing good stuff" consistently still beats gimmicks and shortcuts. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or just someone who's ever felt overwhelmed, Andrew’s story offers a timely reminder: the hardest setbacks can lead to the most meaningful resets.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? How did the hackers get in, and what did the police uncover? Why did you shut down not just the hosting business but also your SEO company? Did the hackers have a clear motive—was it ransom, malice, or something else? What lessons did you learn about web hosting and digital security? How did that experience affect your approach to business and leadership? What did you do differently when launching Yeseo? How do you now decide what to delegate versus do yourself? What tools or systems help you delegate effectively? How did you get into SEO in the first place? What's the biggest mistake companies make when it comes to SEO? How has SEO evolved, especially with the rise of AI? Does Google penalize AI-generated content, or is quality still the priority? Why does “snake oil” SEO still persist? Tell us about your podcast, The Business Amplifier. Who is it for? Who do you think is the greatest band of all time—and why? -
In this special bonus episode of My Favorite Mistake, Mark Graban talks again with Andrea Jones, Principal at AJC and CEO of The Executagility Company.
Andrea was previously featured in Episode 105, and she returns to discuss the release of her new book:The Executagility Field Guide: How Busy Teams Can Execute Growth Plans.
Andrea shares a new “favorite mistake” involving lost data from a Typeform survey—an honest example of learning the hard way how software design can trip up even experienced business leaders. The good news? She caught the mistake, learned from it, and adjusted her systems to avoid similar issues in the future.
We also dive into the four pillars of the Executagility model:
Alignment – Are we clear on the goals and priorities?
Available Time – Do our people realistically have capacity to execute?
Competence – Do we have the right skills in-house or need help?
Structure – Do we have a repeatable process to keep projects on track?
Andrea explains how she applied her own framework to the writing and launch of her book—and how it’s helping mid-sized businesses get growth initiatives done without burning out their teams.
"You can’t execute growth if your team is already stretched thin trying to handle today’s work."
"Just because someone’s capable in their current role doesn’t mean they can drive transformation alone. That’s why the glue person—the project leader—is essential."
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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My guest for Episode #309 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is La Tonya Roberts, the founder and CEO of Harmony Consulting Group. La Tonya is a fractional COO, HR consultant, and executive coach who helps women entrepreneurs scale their service-based businesses from six to seven figures through systems, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Before launching her firm, she built her career at top consulting organizations like Deloitte and Booz Allen, where she developed deep expertise in organizational change and operational leadership.
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In this episode, La Tonya shares her favorite mistake—staying too long in roles she had outgrown, taking on too much responsibility, and ultimately burning out. After experiencing both physical and emotional fatigue, including a dramatic moment that sent her to the hospital, she realized that her tendency to overfunction in high-demand environments was unsustainable. Those hard lessons eventually led her to rediscover joy in her work by launching her own business focused on operational harmony and intentional growth.
La Tonya explains how she now helps founders—especially women—build scalable, process-driven businesses without sacrificing their well-being. She also shares how she uses tools like ChatGPT to automate repetitive tasks and increase efficiency, both in her business and her clients'. We also talk about the importance of aligning systems, people, and strategy, and how La Tonya’s clients benefit from her experience in both large enterprises and nimble startups.
Listeners will hear practical advice on avoiding burnout, building systems that run without you, and why "work-life harmony" may be a better goal than elusive "balance."
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My guest for Episode #308 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is C.J. Stewart, co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer at the LEAD Center for Youth, an Atlanta-based nonprofit focused on empowering Black youth through sports-based development. Before dedicating his life to mentorship and advocacy, C.J. was drafted twice by the Chicago Cubs and built a successful career as a professional hitting instructor and co-owner of Diamond Directors. He’s also the author of Living to Lead: A Story of Passion, Purpose, and Grit.
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C.J.’s “favorite mistake”? Becoming an avid runner. What started as a tribute to the life of Ahmaud Arbery turned into a transformational habit—one that reshaped his health, mindset, and mission. In this powerful conversation, C.J. unpacks the difference between mistakes and stupidity, explores the struggles that shape significance, and reflects on the emotional toll and systemic barriers faced by Black athletes. He also shares how running has helped him connect across generations, communities, and cultures.
Throughout the episode, C.J. offers a candid and thought-provoking look at racism, leadership, and the need for real advocacy—not just good coaching. He shares insights from his own life as a player, coach, and nonprofit leader, challenging listeners to consider how we name and respond to problems, and why protecting others is at the heart of leadership. This is a conversation about growth, conviction, and using our platforms to make a difference.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake, and what did you learn from it? In what way was becoming a runner a mistake? How do you define the difference between a mistake and stupidity? How has running changed you—physically, emotionally, and socially? Did pursuing a career in professional baseball feel like a mistake in hindsight? What does LEAD stand for, and what is its mission? Why is advocacy more important than just good coaching? Why do you think there are so few Black players in certain positions, like catcher or pitcher? What needs to change in baseball to address racism and systemic barriers? What do you mean when you say you became “openly Black” in 2015? How does racism take an emotional toll on Black athletes, even those who succeed? Are MLB diversity programs effective, or are they falling short? What else needs to happen to create real change and equity in baseball? -
In this bonus episode of My Favorite Mistake, host Mark Graban welcomes back Dr. Thom Mayer, the longtime Medical Director for the NFL Players Association. Thom previously joined us in catch up on his original episode here🌐 Learn more about Dr. Mayer and his work with the NFLPA💡 Subscribe at MarkGraban.com/mistake
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My guest for Episode #307 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Terry Whalin, an accomplished editor and author of more than 60 books, several of which have sold over 100,000 copies. Terry is the owner of Whalin and Associates, a communications firm, and he serves as an acquisitions editor for Morgan James Publishing. Drawing from decades of experience in both writing and publishing, Terry shares a favorite mistake that changed the course of his career—offering valuable insights for first-time authors and seasoned professionals alike.
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His most recent book is 10 Publishing Myths: Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed.
Terry’s favorite mistake took place in 2007, when a high-profile publishing event jolted him into realizing just how little he was doing to promote his own books. Despite having secured multiple six-figure advances and a long list of published titles, Terry was receiving negative royalty statements—his books weren’t earning out. That wake-up call led him to take what he calls 100% responsibility for his own success, adopting a daily commitment to book promotion, content creation, and building an online presence. From that turning point, he launched a blog (now with over 1,700 posts), grew a substantial social media following, and became a consistent voice in the author education space.
In the conversation, Terry and Mark explore the myths and realities of book publishing—especially the misconception that a publisher will handle marketing. Terry outlines how today’s authors must become active promoters, the importance of building an email list you control, and why giving away ebooks can actually drive print book sales. He also shares hard-earned lessons about evaluating publishers, avoiding scams, and understanding how traditional and independent publishing models differ. Whether you’re writing your first book or navigating your next launch, Terry’s insights are a masterclass in professional ownership and long-term thinking.
Questions and Topics: What’s your favorite mistake? Was it just a bad assumption to think publishers would promote your book, or do they sometimes mislead authors? Is the idea that a publisher will handle marketing one of the common myths in publishing? What specific actions did you start taking after realizing you needed to take full responsibility for your book’s success? Are you actively guesting on podcasts and using social media today to promote your work? Do social media efforts actually help sell books—or is it more about visibility and exposure? What’s your take on claims like “#1 Amazon bestseller”—do those really help authors sell books? Can you explain how the Morgan James model differs from traditional publishing? Why do you ask authors to commit to buying 2,000 copies of their own book? What role does giving away ebooks play in driving print sales? What should authors consider when deciding between traditional, hybrid, or independent publishing? How can aspiring authors avoid getting scammed by predatory publishing companies? What’s the role of an acquisitions editor, and how do you evaluate submissions? Do pre-orders really matter for bookstore placement? Why should authors consider writing for magazines or newspapers to build their platform? Do you think authors give up too early on marketing their books? Is building an email list still essential for authors, even in the age of social media? Should authors be cautious about relying too much on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn? -
My guest for Episode #306 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Betsy Pepine, a serial entrepreneur in real estate and the founder of Pepine Realty. Betsy leads a top-producing real estate team consistently recognized by The Wall Street Journal and has built a family of companies that includes a property management firm, title company, real estate school, and a nonprofit.
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She’s also the author of the 2024 book Breaking Boxes: Dismantling the Metaphorical Boxes That Bind Us, which explores the limiting labels and roles we assign ourselves—and how to break free from them.
Betsy’s favorite mistake was starting her brokerage with no clear plan. What began as a solo effort out of her home unexpectedly turned into a team, and eventually a company—but without intentional structure or culture. That all came to a head when her trusted assistant resigned right before a long-overdue family vacation. Her assistant’s honest feedback—about the lack of family, growth, and purpose—was a painful but pivotal wake-up call. Betsy responded not by retreating, but by reading leadership books on her cruise, hiring a coach, and reinventing her company with clear values and a defined mission.
In our conversation, Betsy shares how she rebuilt Pepine Realty around core values like family, impact, and growth. She talks about initiatives like creating a nonprofit to address housing affordability and designing career paths that include a rare salaried-agent model in real estate. We also discuss the power of learning from mistakes—including how her team shares “learnings” each week in a psychologically safe environment that accelerates growth and prevents repeated errors.
Betsy’s story is about far more than real estate—it’s about leadership, self-awareness, and responding to failure with action. Her perspective will resonate with anyone building a team or culture where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to improve.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? What did your assistant say when she resigned—and how did that become a turning point for you? How did you respond to that feedback, and what changes did you make in your business? What were the first steps you took to start shaping your company culture? Did you create your mission and core values on your own at first? How did you define and build a “sense of family” inside your business? What inspired you to create a nonprofit—and how does it fit into your overall mission? What’s the purpose behind your unique salaried agent role? How do you help team members shift roles if they’re not in the right seat? What’s the weekly “learnings” segment in your team meeting—and how does it support growth? How do you balance encouraging learning from mistakes without being careless? Do you use checklists or systems to help prevent mistakes? What prompted you to write Breaking Boxes, and what’s the core message of the book? How do we recognize when we’re stuck in a metaphorical box—and how do we step out of it? What are the main fears that keep people in those boxes? Can you share how fear of failure has influenced your thinking over time? What does it take to build resilience to change? What’s your approach to managing fear of loss—especially status or social connections? How did your connection with Barbara Corcoran come about? What lessons have you learned from Barbara as a mentor? What advice would you give someone thinking of starting a business without a clear plan? What do you think are the best reasons for someone to get into real estate? How do you view the role of a real estate agent during high-stress life transitions? How do you create consistency in values across your family of companies? How do you support women reentering society after incarceration—and what’s the deeper “why” behind that work? -
My guest for Episode #305 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is John Willson, Executive Director of SOAR, the world’s premier outdoor adventure program serving youth with ADHD and learning disabilities.
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With over 30 years of experience, John is a passionate advocate for experiential education and life skills development through structured, strengths-based environments. SOAR, which stands for Success Oriented Achievements Realized, supports young people ages 8 to 25 through summer camps, boarding schools, and gap year programs focused on building confidence and resilience.
John’s favorite mistake took place on Mount Katahdin, the northern end of the Appalachian Trail, where he unknowingly summited a false peak in poor weather conditions. Faced with a difficult decision—turn back through a dangerous route he already knew or forge ahead into unknown terrain—he pressed on despite worsening conditions. Although it was arguably the “wrong” decision in the moment, it led to a powerful sense of accomplishment and a safer descent than expected. John describes this as a “happy mistake” that taught him about risk, perseverance, and the sometimes unexpected rewards of pressing forward.
In our conversation, John shares how this philosophy of “failing forward” underpins SOAR’s mission. He explains how their structured programs help kids with ADHD and learning differences build critical life skills, develop self-awareness, and form friendships—often for the first time. We also explore the importance of creating environments where neurodiverse individuals are supported, understood, and encouraged to take safe risks, with a strong network behind them.
John and I also discuss the evolving understanding of ADHD, the challenges of diagnosis, and how labels matter less than building strategies that work. He shares practical advice for parents and adults alike, emphasizing the role of support systems, coaching, and compassion. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone navigating your own neurodiversity, this episode offers insights into how mistakes—when supported by reflection and community—can lead to breakthroughs.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? Is it true that one of your most common mistakes is people misspelling your last name? Did you go back and climb Mount Katahdin again on a clearer day? What do you mean by “summit fever”? If that decision had led to a bad outcome, would it change how you reflect on it? What lessons did you take away from that pattern of decision-making? What are some ways the SOAR summer camp is tailored for kids with ADHD or learning disabilities? How much of the benefit comes from being with other kids who share similar strengths and challenges? How does being in that kind of environment help kids feel more accepted? How does SOAR help kids who struggle to make friends build relationships? When were you diagnosed with ADHD? How did that diagnosis shape your connection to SOAR and the work you do? How many SOAR staff members also have ADHD, versus being trained to support it? What kind of person tends to thrive on your staff? What’s your take on people wondering if they have ADHD or if it’s anxiety or something else? What matters more—getting a diagnosis or developing the right coping strategies? What advice would you give someone recently diagnosed with ADHD—or who suspects they might have it? Can you talk about the role of support systems in success for neurodiverse individuals? What’s your view on younger people being more open about neurodiversity in the workplace? Can you share some practical first steps after receiving an ADHD diagnosis? Why is identifying your support network such a crucial part of success? -
My guest for Episode #304 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Dr. Tia Warrick, a clinical research leader, epidemiologist, author, and entrepreneur who has spent nearly a decade working in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.
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She’s the founder of Lesous Consulting, a firm dedicated to supporting clinical research professionals and organizations through education, business analytics, and strategic consulting. With a strong academic background—including a doctorate in health science and clinical health education—Dr. Warrick is committed to empowering the next generation of researchers and bringing more awareness to the vast career opportunities within clinical research.
In this episode, Dr. Warrick shares her "favorite mistake"—not speaking up for herself early in her career. She candidly reflects on a time when she took on significantly more responsibilities than her job description called for but hesitated to advocate for a promotion or raise. Her story highlights how staying silent led to missed opportunities and feelings of frustration. But more importantly, she explains how learning to take accountability and find her voice ultimately fueled her confidence, career progression, and entrepreneurial path.
We also explore the broader challenges and opportunities within the clinical research industry, especially for early-career professionals who may not realize the variety of roles available. Dr. Warrick discusses the importance of mentorship, the need for greater visibility into clinical research career paths, and her motivation for writing Burst the Bubble, a book designed to inform and inspire future talent in the pharmaceutical world. She also touches on how she now teaches others to confidently advocate for themselves—whether during salary negotiations or while shaping their career direction.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake, and what did you learn from it? Was your early role as a clinical research coordinator before or after your advanced degrees? When did you realize you should have spoken up for yourself sooner? Was there a mentor or moment that helped you come to that realization? After receiving a small raise, did you try to advocate for more or take another path? Do you share this lesson with students or early-career professionals you mentor? How do you coach others on negotiating compensation and advocating for themselves? Why is it especially important to speak up early in your career? What are some misconceptions people have about roles in clinical research? How do you raise awareness about the breadth of opportunities in the field? How strong is the job outlook in clinical research, and how might AI impact it? What was the inspiration behind founding Lesous Consulting? What leadership lessons have you learned so far as a new entrepreneur? How do you create a culture where people feel safe to speak up and share feedback? What does psychological safety look like in your company and classroom? Can you tell us about the AI platform you’re developing and how it supports clinical research? -
My guest for Episode #303 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Kason Morris, a corporate executive, speaker, coach, and self-described life-work revolutionary. With a career that spans consulting, financial services, and global learning and development leadership, Kason has spent years helping organizations and individuals prepare for the rapidly evolving world of work. He’s also the author of LifeWork Revolution: How to Unplug from the System, Find Your Purpose, and Thrive Beyond the 9 to 5.
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Kason’s “favorite mistake” was what he calls the relentless climb—his belief that success was defined by job titles, constant hustle, and chasing the next promotion. While his resume showed success, his health, relationships, and sense of fulfillment told a different story. A powerful turning point came when his young daughter mimicked his busy, distracted behavior at home—forcing him to ask: Is this the version of myself I want to model? From that moment, Kason began a process of reflection and reinvention, applying design thinking to life and work.
Mark and Kason explore topics like life-work synergy vs. work-life balance, how AI is reshaping the future of work, and why psychological safety and transparency are foundational for sustainable innovation. Whether you're a burned-out professional, a leader trying to engage your team, or someone curious about navigating change, this conversation offers inspiring lessons about slowing down, designing better systems, and living more intentionally.
Questions and Topics:What is your “favorite mistake,” and why does it stand out to you? When did you first realize that your definition of success might be off track? What roles or promotions were part of that “relentless climb” in your career? Did you receive feedback from your family, or was your shift more self-reflective? What was the moment with your daughter that became a wake-up call? How did you start making changes after that realization? What does the phrase “designing a better life” mean to you in practice? How did your professional experiences in product and organizational design influence your life design approach? What is “life-work synergy,” and how is it different from work-life balance or integration? How did your new perspective influence your transition into your current role? How do you define the “future of work,” and what are the key capabilities people need to thrive in it? What are your thoughts on AI—especially how individuals can partner with it effectively? What are some common mistakes people or companies make when approaching AI and new technologies? What’s your take on the return-to-office debate and how it fits into the future of work? Why is employee experience becoming such a critical focus for organizations? What advice do you have for individuals trying to future-proof their careers? What do organizations need to do culturally to foster innovation and engagement? In your coaching practice, who typically reaches out to you—and how can they learn more? -
My guest for Episode #302 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Tash Doherty, a British-Irish-American author, blogger, and podcaster currently based in Mexico City. A graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, Tash previously worked in analytics for Postmates and Vox Media.
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Today, she is the creator of Miss Educated—a popular blog and podcast covering business, pleasure, and women's health. Tash is also the author of the coming-of-age young adult novel These Perfectly Careless Things, self-published in 2023. She gained viral attention on TikTok by openly sharing her experiences with birth control.
Fresh out of Wharton at age 23, Tash joined Postmates in San Francisco, working in analytics. When offered a team change, Tash ignored her gut instinct and reluctantly joined a team run by a manager whose working style clashed sharply with her own. Within months, their professional relationship deteriorated, leading to Tash's unexpected firing just two weeks before the company conducted widespread layoffs.
Initially painful, this mistake forced Tash to reassess her career direction, ultimately opening the door to writing, entrepreneurship, and creative independence—turning a devastating setback into her favorite mistake.
In this episode, we also discuss Tash’s insightful critique of technology companies and their unintended contributions to economic inequality, her process of transforming a teenage passion project into a published novel, and practical advice on balancing creativity with financial sustainability.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? Were there early signs of trouble with your boss, Sumit, or did problems develop later? How did you choose Postmates as your first job after graduating from Wharton? Did your poor relationship with Sumit impact your job performance? Was it hard to trust another company or manager after that experience? Did you ever consider starting your own company again after leaving Postmates? Do entrepreneurs have a responsibility to reduce economic inequality, or is that up to policymakers? What specific mistakes do you see tech companies making right now? What led you to write your article, "How Tech Is Ruining the World"? Can you elaborate on how tech companies like Postmates worsen inequality? What did you mean when you described tech workers as being "incurious about the machine"? Is the tech industry truly improving society or causing greater harm? How should entrepreneurs or policymakers handle technologies that cause harm when scaled? Tell us about writing your book, These Perfectly Careless Things—how did it evolve over time? How do you decide when your writing is finished and ready to publish? -
My guest for Episode #301 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Jonathan Small, an award-winning journalist, editor, podcast host, and producer based in Los Angeles.
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As president of Strike Fire Productions, he has built a diverse career that spans magazine editing at top publications—from Child Magazine to Maxim—and pioneering roles in digital media and podcasting. Known for his candid storytelling and willingness to embrace risk, Jon has transformed professional setbacks into defining career moments, including leaving a cushy executive role to reinvent himself in a rapidly changing media landscape.
He's also the podcast of a podcast called "Write About Now." Jon's also the author of a book with the same title.
In this episode, Jon recounts his bold decision to leave a high-flying magazine career in New York for a risky, low-paying production role in Los Angeles—a move that, despite its initial challenges (like parting with his beloved cat and facing financial uncertainty), ultimately redefined his career. He shares insights into the evolution of the publishing industry, the shift from print to digital media, and how even seemingly disastrous mistakes can pave the way for reinvention, new opportunities, and personal growth.
Jon also delves into his extensive experience as a writer and interviewer, offering practical advice on common pitfalls in writing and the art of “show, don’t tell.” He emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfect first drafts, the necessity of reading widely to hone one’s craft, and the value of authentic conversation in podcasting—whether as a host or a guest.
Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to vivid anecdotes from his career, tips for leveraging AI in writing, and reflections on how vulnerability and genuine curiosity fuel both compelling storytelling and effective interviews.
Questions and Topics:What is your favorite mistake? What prompted you to leave magazine editing for a role in film production? Did you consider returning to New York after the move? What was your role at the movie production company? What are the most common mistakes rookie writers make? Can you provide an example that illustrates the difference between showing and telling in writing? What tips do you have for becoming a more effective interviewer? Based on your experience, what advice would you offer to guests on a podcast? -
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My guest for Episode #300 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Sheila Butler, a Chief Marketing Officer with over 25 years of experience shaping integrated marketing strategies, building global loyalty programs, and driving customer engagement across both B2C and B2B sectors.
She's the founder of Butler Marketing Group. Her track record includes leadership roles at Disney, JPMorgan Chase, Choice Hotels, and Axiom Bank.
She has a Bachelor of Science in Music and Business/Arts Administration from Indiana University and an MBA from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.
Today, Sheila shares her unique journey from a childhood passion for music and a stint at Disney, where she learned valuable lessons about the trade-offs between passion and pay. Despite a career start marked by lower-than-expected salaries and tough financial realities, she found that the relationships and experiences she built were invaluable. Her candid storytelling reveals how her early experiences taught her the importance of seizing opportunities—even when they seem like mistakes in the short term—to build a network that ultimately became a cornerstone for her current success.
Now, as the founder of Butler Marketing Group and host of her new podcast, "Marketing Over Bourbon," Sheila focuses on leveraging data-driven strategies to guide marketing decisions. She emphasizes creating safe spaces for experimentation, the power of testing and learning, and the need to balance strategic objectives with creative expression. Interwoven with her passion for bourbon, Sheila’s insights on marketing resonate with listeners who appreciate both practical advice and a genuine, relatable approach to career growth.
Questions and Topics:What's your favorite mistake? What are you drinking? Do you prefer a bourbon Manhattan or a rye Manhattan? Have you worked with any small distillers or distilling companies? What drove you to launch your company? How do you handle it when data contradicts expectations? What trends are you seeing with companies becoming more data-driven in marketing? Is half of your ad spend wasted, or is that changing with improved data insights? -
My guest for Episode #299 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Luis Velasquez, an executive coach in Silicon Valley and a Stanford Graduate School of Business facilitator. He's also the founder of Velas Consulting.
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Once a university professor and research scientist, Luis helps mid-level managers to C-suite executives around the world learn, adapt, grow, and thrive by helping them how to reframe their challenges and take the most beneficial next step.
His new book, available now, is Ordinary Resilience: Rethinking How Effective Leaders Adapt And Thrive.
Luis is a contributor to Harvard Business Review and Fast Company, and was featured in best-selling author Dorie Clark’s book, The Long Game. An avid endurance athlete, he runs marathons, ultra marathons, and ironman triathlons.
In today's episode, Luis shares his journey from being a university professor and research scientist to becoming a trusted leadership coach in Silicon Valley and a facilitator for the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Luis discusses his new book, Ordinary Resilience: Rethinking How Effective Leaders Adapt and Thrive, and outlines his unique resilience formula—commitment plus persistence multiplied by optimism. He explains that resilience isn't about bouncing back but about unlocking the inherent ability to adapt and thrive by continuously reframing challenges and learning from experiences.
Luis also opens up about a significant mistake in his coaching career. He recounts a time when he delivered 360-degree feedback in a way that was too direct and decontextualized, which led a client to become defensive and ultimately resulted in his contract being terminated. This experience taught him the importance of providing feedback within the context of an individual’s aspirations and personal growth, rather than simply relaying raw perceptions.
The conversation further explores his approach to transforming challenging personalities—like the so-called “brilliant jerks”—into effective leaders, and how embracing and learning from mistakes is key to unlocking resilience and driving both personal and professional growth.
Questions and Topics:How long is an ultramarathon compared to a standard 26.1-mile marathon? Given your diverse career, what is your favorite mistake—and what did you learn from it? Should we express our degree of certainty when stating facts? How do you define resilience in leadership? How do you identify and connect with high-value, challenging employees—is it via referrals or direct outreach? How often do you coach not only the “brilliant jerk” but also intervene with their teams? What role does fear play as a catalyst for growth—is it simply about reframing it? Have you observed leaders effectively fostering optimism among their teams? What does “embrace the suck” mean to you, and why is it a pivotal concept in your book? -
My guest for Episode #298 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Andy Paige. She's a soap opera actress, podcast host, QVC guest host, and national beauty/image/lifestyle expert. As Pearl on ABC's General Hospital, she brings real-life QVC flair to captivating audiences with innovative advertising.
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She hosts “The Dating Lab with the Hillbilly Yenta,” where she explores modern dating challenges with humor and diverse guests. Her international bestseller, Style on a Shoestring, earned her the title “Budget Bombshell” and inspired frugal style makeovers on TV worldwide.
With standout appearances on NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice, Starting Over, and TLC’s Ten Years Younger, Andy is the go-to expert for red-carpet style and practical image advice. She also delights radio audiences nationwide with playful style tips and has launched successful product lines including her patented GirlyGoGarter® and related accessories.
In this episode, Andy shares the dramatic story of how a miscalculated cliff jump not only resulted in a severe injury but also sparked a journey of innovation that led her to create the revolutionary Girly Go Garter. She reflects on the lessons learned from this life-altering mistake and discusses how it transformed her approach to both her career and personal growth.
She offers insights into the creative process behind her products, the challenges and triumphs of working in fast-paced television environments, and how embracing mistakes can lead to unexpected opportunities. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, reinvention, and the art of turning errors into stepping stones for success.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? Did you hit the edge of the rock when you jumped? Was your foot catastrophically injured during the fall? Did you expect a long rehab period and time away from the camera? How many design iterations did the Girly Go Garter require—and is it still evolving based on feedback? Did you try pitching your product on Shark Tank? Did the Girly Go Garter play a role in landing your QVC gigs? Is QVC always broadcast live? How far in advance are soap opera episodes completed? How did your role on General Hospital come about? As a mother, how do you help your kids learn from mistakes? Do you allow your natural accent to shine through on set? -
In this special bonus episode of "My Favorite Mistake," host Mark Graban welcomes back Arnold Barnett, a renowned expert in aviation safety, to discuss public perception of air travel safety in light of recent air incidents. They explore common misconceptions about aviation risks, temporal fluctuations in safety data, and the factors contributing to the continuing improvement in aviation safety. Professor Barnett reassures listeners with data-driven insights and addresses the psychological biases influencing our perception of risk.
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Key Discussion Points:
Public Perceptions vs. Reality: Arnie Barnett sheds light on why recent air travel incidents have caused public apprehension but insists that aviation remains incredibly safe.
Understanding Spasms of Events: Discussion on how statistical anomalies can lead to clusters of negative events but don't necessarily indicate a trend.
The Role of Probability: Barnett explains probability through coin toss analogies, emphasizing that rare clusters of events are expected even when the underlying system is safe.
Historic Comparisons and Data Trends: Insights into how aviation safety has followed a trajectory similar to Moore's Law, with risks decreasing significantly over decades.
Risks in Aviation: Highlighting the contrasts between accidental risks and potential threats from deliberate actions, such as terrorism.
Psychological Aspects of Risk: Exploration of how psychological biases, like availability bias, affect public perception of aviation risk.
Guest Bio:
Arnie Barnett
Arnie Barnett is the George Eastman Professor of Management Science at MIT Sloan School of Management and a pre-eminent expert in aviation safety. He has been recognized with the 2002 President Citation from the Flight Safety Foundation for outstanding contributions to safety and has received multiple teaching honors from MIT Sloan students. Barnett holds a BA in mathematics from Columbia University and a PhD in mathematics from MIT.
Previous Appearance: Arnie Barnett's favorite mistake story in Episode 169: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ffe6bNtxlg
MIT Article: Explore the article on the MIT website detailing aviation safety trends and Moore's Law analogy, as discussed in the episode: https://news.mit.edu/2024/study-flying-keeps-getting-safer-0807
Memorable Quotes:
"If you see a little kid at an American airport, then that kid...is five times as likely to grow up to be president as to perish in the forthcoming flight." — Arnie Barnett
"Fears are deep, and when I respect them, I know many people who are afraid to fly, but I believe this is something we shouldn't be afraid of." — Arnie Barnett
Actionable Takeaways from the Podcast Episode
Stay Informed, Not Anxious:
Guidance: Understand that aviation safety is statistically very high, even amidst rare bursts of incidents. Arnie Barnett explained that the risk levels are closer to zero than perceived, as discussed with the "availability bias" and the statistical explanation regarding recent safety events.
Implementation: Arm yourself with reliable safety data and trends when feeling anxious about flying. Remind yourself that the perception of risk is often inflated by isolated incidents, which are outweighed by the overwhelming safety record of aviation.
Leverage Sound Arguments:
Guidance: Use metaphorical insights, such as Barnett's coin analogy, to effectively communicate the nature of rare events. This helps in understanding that a sudden occurrence of incidents does not necessarily indicate a systematic issue.
Implementation: When discussing risks, employ similar analogies to articulate to others that rare sequences of events do happen without indicating a broader change in safety. This approach can not only assure others but also help you internalize and remain calm about flying.
Focus on Broader Safety Trends:
Guidance: Be aware that deliberate attacks are an area of potential concern, but reassurances on trends are clear from Barnett, who discussed continuous improvements and the extraordinary safety levels in countries like the US, UK, and Canada.
Implementation: When planning air travel, focus on the historical safety record of airlines and recognize that current safety measures are stringent and continuously improving. For example, choosing airlines with exemplary safety records can further mitigate rare and unanticipated risks, providing peace of mind during air travel.
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My guest for Episode #297 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Norman Wolfe, the Founder and CEO of Quantum Leaders.
EPISODE PAGE with video, transcript, and more
Norman's journey as both a successful executive and a trusted coach to countless leaders has been driven by one central question: How can we improve our ability to achieve the results we want? His pursuit of this answer led him to master a wide range of business disciplines—from leadership and strategy to operations and finance—while also deeply exploring human potential, personal growth, and even spirituality.
Norman's mission now is to help others transform their thinking and approach to more effectively achieve their deepest desires.
In this episode, I chat with Norman about how mistakes can spark profound growth and innovation in leadership. Norman shares his favorite mistake story—from his early days as a first-time manager, where a harsh performance review challenged him, to the lessons that fueled his journey toward becoming a top leader at Hewlett-Packard. He explains Wolfe's Law, his formula that highlights the exponential impact of relationships and context on achieving outcomes.
We also dive into the principles of quantum leadership, discussing how a holistic, people-centered approach—blending practical leadership with a touch of spirituality and systems thinking—can transform organizations into dynamic learning ecosystems.
Questions and Topics:What is your favorite mistake? Did the negative review or your mentors provide specific, actionable feedback for improvement? Is the formula you mentioned what you call “Wolfe’s Law”? Could you state Wolfe’s Law for us? Does your formula imply that relationships are exponentially more important than activity and context? How does spirituality fit into your framework—does it fall under context or serve another role? How do you assess whether individuals (or teams) are mature enough for increased responsibility? What should be eliminated versus managed when dealing with ambiguity and risk? From your experience, why is it essential to reframe mistakes as positive learning opportunities? Do you believe that making mistakes fosters adaptation and growth? -
Episode page with video and more
My guest for Episode #296 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Sherianna Boyle, a renowned psychic healer, speaker, and founder of Emotional Detox Coaching® and The Cleanse Method®. She has written over ten books, including the best-selling Energy in Action: The Power of Emotions & Intuition to Cultivate Peace & Freedom.
Her latest book is Just Ask Spirit: Free Your Emotions to Energize Intuition and Discover Purpose.
With over 25 years of experience in mental health and wellness, Sherianna integrates psychology, energy healing, and spirituality in her work. Her "Just Ask Spirit" podcast is in the top 5% globally, and she has been featured in major media outlets like Psychology Today, Yoga Journal, and Prevention.
In today's episode, we explored the idea that mistakes, particularly those born of brutal honesty, are vital opportunities for growth. Sherianna shared that her favorite mistake was being so candid—delivering feedback that wasn’t always received well—that she later recognized as a catalyst for learning and deeper self-awareness. She explained how that raw honesty, while sometimes painful in the moment, ultimately taught her the importance of embracing and processing emotions rather than suppressing them. By owning her truth and inviting forgiveness—from herself and others—she discovered that these so-called mistakes could pave the way for more authentic, supportive relationships and a greater alignment with her inner guidance.
Questions and Topics:What is your favorite mistake, and why does it stand out? Can you share a specific story that illustrates this pattern of brutal honesty? Reflecting on those experiences, would you do anything differently in similar situations? Can someone be prepared—or "braced"—for the impact of brutal honesty? What advice do you have for those struggling with the aftermath of a mistake? How can someone uncover the root of their emotional triggers, and what resources would you recommend? In your work, how do you define "spirit" and its role in emotional healing? Who is the ideal audience for your book, and in what situations would it be most helpful? -
My guest for Episode #295 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Josh Chernikoff, a seasoned expert in the education sector with nearly 20 years of experience in EdTech, sales, and entrepreneurship.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Josh is the founder of the EdSales Elevation Experience, a 12-week program designed to help education companies build lead-generation engines that consistently book 12-20 high-quality sales calls per month.
He has worked with hundreds of thousands of students and educational leaders, helping businesses scale with innovative, repeatable sales processes. Josh is also a Milken-Penn GSE Competition Judge, StartEd Mentor, and host of the podcast "Breaking the Grade."
In this episode, Josh Chernikoff shares the hard lessons he learned from choosing the wrong business partners and how that misalignment impacted his second company. He reflects on how personality fit and communication styles can make or break a business relationship, emphasizing the importance of testing collaborations on smaller projects before fully committing. Josh also opens up about a pricing strategy misstep that led to significant financial losses and the unexpected impact of the pandemic on his after-school enrichment business.
Beyond mistakes, we dive into what makes a repeatable, scalable sales process—why businesses struggle with lead generation, how to refine messaging, and the importance of credibility in attracting the right clients. Josh explains his Raise Your Hand campaign as a way to identify high-quality leads and tailor sales efforts to what potential customers actually need. We also discuss the power of having one clear offer, the role of objections in refining sales strategies, and why he stays laser-focused on education sales despite his methodology’s broader applicability. Toward the end, Josh shares stories from his early career as a TV sports broadcaster, including lessons learned at Northwestern’s Medill School and the intensity of live television.
Questions and Topics:What’s your favorite mistake? Did you realize it was a mistake right away, or did that realization develop over time? What lessons did you take from that experience? How can someone evaluate whether a business partnership is the right fit before committing? Can you share more about the pricing change that didn’t go as planned? How do you differentiate between handling objections in sales and truly learning from objections? Why limit your business to education sales when your methodology could apply more broadly? What are the most common sales mistakes you see, either in education or in general? How important is it to focus on finding the right leads versus just generating more leads? How do you identify high-quality leads and refine your targeting strategy over time? What role does messaging play in sales success, and how do you help clients improve it? How did your career start in TV sports broadcasting, and what led you to leave? What lessons from broadcasting have helped you in your current work? Was there a broadcast journalism equivalent to the Medill F? How should professionals use LinkedIn to position themselves effectively? What advice do you have for people struggling with lead generation? How do you know when it’s time to pivot your business strategy based on market feedback? -
My guest for Episode #294 of the My Favorite Mistake podcast is Mandolen Mull.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
She has worked with global clients in various industries, helping organizations with change implementation and leader development training. The daughter of a master stone mason entrepreneur, Mandolen has a great appreciation for the responsibility of leaders in building trades and manufacturing realms.
Mandolen has written a leadership handbook and is currently publishing her multi-series memoir titled Mullings, Mullivation, and MullMentum.
She was born in Fort Worth, TX, and inspired by her family's history in politics, she obtained a bachelor's degree in Political Science & Psychology and an MBA in International Business at McLane College of Business from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.
Amassing over a decade of corporate leadership experience, she obtained her Ph.D. from the Soules College of Business at the University of Texas at Tyler in Organizational Development & Change.
In this episode, we explore powerful leadership lessons drawn from personal experiences, including the importance of authenticity and earning credibility in challenging environments. Mandolen shares a defining moment early in her career when she stepped into a male-dominated workplace and made an impulsive decision that led to a valuable lesson about humility and resilience. She reflects on how listening, observing, and building trust with her team helped her become an effective leader, emphasizing that leadership is not about asserting authority but about connecting with people and addressing their needs.
We also delve into the impact of adversity on her leadership journey, including her experience with dystonia and how it shaped her perspective on resilience and empathy. Mandolen discusses the inspiration behind her memoir series, including themes of grit, transformation, and navigating complex relationships. Through candid stories about her personal and professional life, she offers insights into building trust, overcoming challenges, and fostering a leadership style that prioritizes connection, transparency, and growth.
Questions and Topics:Can you share an update on your memoir series? What themes are you exploring in these books? What’s the story behind your favorite mistake, and what leadership lessons did you take from it? Was your initial approach to listening and observing natural for you, or did someone advise you to take that approach? How did your father’s lessons and perspective shape your leadership style? What advice did your father give you to help overcome challenges in leadership? How did your team’s feedback inspire your transition to becoming a professor? What is it like coaching ironworkers to become effective leaders and instructors? How has your experience with dystonia and other health challenges influenced your leadership journey? What inspired the title and concept of your first book, Grit for the Pearl? What are the key themes of your upcoming books, and how do they connect to your life and work? - Visa fler
