The Corporate Couch: Work Stories I Only Tell My Friends

In this episode, I chat with the inimitable Michael Mackie (see his bio below), a multi-talented storyteller, Emmy-award-winning host, entertainment journalist, and travel writer. With his signature wit and humor, Michael takes us through his fascinating career, from his early days in Des Moines TV to interviewing A-list celebrities and even hosting his own PBS travel show, "Get Lost!". We dive into: Michael’s hilarious and sometimes disastrous celebrity interviews, including Sarah McLachlan and Jennifer Lopez. His pivot from TV journalism to storytelling in advertising and travel writing. The art of personal branding, creating genuine connections on LinkedIn, and why authenticity is key. A sneak peek into his upcoming gig as a host for Norwegian Cruise Line’s Sevilla excursion. Michael’s advice for life and career? “Just say yes.” Whether it’s showing up for opportunities or embracing the unexpected, his philosophy will inspire you to stay open to life’s twists and turns. Don’t miss Michael’s insights on storytelling, building a personal brand, and his unfiltered anecdotes from a career filled with laughs, lessons, and a few surprises!   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Michael's bio: Michael Mackie(LinkedIn) is an Aries with a Pisces rising. (IYKYK.)​. Growing up as a proud Midwesterner, he knew he always knew he wanted to be in TV. Or on TV.​ Or watching TV (He's not picky). By complete accident and happenstance, Mackie began interviewing a litany of Emmy-, Academy-, and Grammy-award winners. What started as a hobby, quickly became his own unexpected claim to fame. His motto? “You name the celebrity and I’ve probably interviewed them. Twice.”​ "My parents never could comprehend how I earned my keep stringing words together for the universe to appreciate," he says. "Frankly, that makes three of us. But I feel like telling stories is what I was put on this earth to do. I was born to spend no more than five minutes in a room chatting up a celebrity and then somehow cobble brilliance together. Whether you read it or watch it—welp, that’s up to you

From Mucking Stables to Shaping Leaders: Linda Endecott’s Path of Purpose​ - In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Linda Endecott​ (see her bio below), Managing Director of the Executive MBA program at Rockhurst University’s Helzberg School of Management. With an extraordinary career spanning education, nonprofit/corporate leadership, and executive development, Linda shares the lessons, laughter, and life experiences that have shaped her journey.   We explore Linda’s unique path—from mucking stables at age three to marrying into a family that built a multi-generational legacy of wealth through their business endeavors. Linda reflects on how this experience deepened her understanding of leadership, respect, and the importance of fostering relationships across all levels of an organization. With her trademark warmth and wit, Linda discusses: The values instilled by her father, a steel company president, and her journey from Valley Forge, PA into Kansas City’s iconic business community. Her passion is mentoring emerging leaders and helping them uncover their potential. Insights on navigating family legacy, multi-generational wealth, and creating meaningful impact. Linda also offers invaluable advice for recent graduates entering the workforce and seasoned professionals stepping into leadership roles, reminding us that success is about purpose, relationships, and lifelong learning. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of Kansas City’s most cherished leaders, and leave with practical insights on how to lead with purpose, build meaningful relationships, and embrace every new day as an opportunity to grow.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Linda's bio: Linda Endecott​ (LinkedIn), Managing Director of the Executive MBA program at Helzberg School of Management, Rockhurst University is an alliance builder that works with leaders and organizations to plan and implement bold value-creating change. She has worked in senior executive and development roles for nonprofits, universities, for-profit companies and has served as a board member and volunteer for numerous philanthropic and civic organizations and initiatives.​ With her love of the Midwest, Linda engages with the greater Kansas City region and its vibrant business community to create collaborative partnerships that support talent development and executive education. She is guided by her passion for helping emerging leaders broaden their experiences, skills, and perspectives in service to themselves, their organizations, and their communities.

Welcome to a short-form Special Edition of The Corporate Couch! Today, my co-host is Shawn Kinkade (linkedin.com/in/shawnkinkade). We break down James Clear’s Atomic Habits. Spoiler alert: this book is life-changing—but also responsible for Shawn flossing regularly and me questioning my peanut M&M consumption. We dive into Clear’s genius strategies, like: Turning "just go to the gym" into an actual life hack (but maybe not living there). Habit stacking: floss after brushing, not after binging peanut M&Ms. Becoming the kind of person who does things—like yoga, writing, or saying no to that second dessert. Why "Don’t break the chain" is your new mantra, unless it’s linked to your Netflix binge. It’s not rocket science, but it might just change your life—or at least your morning routine. We also explore how setting up systems over goals can help you crush them at work and at home. 📚 Bonus: Email me at jeffpelaccio@gmail.com for a free 7-page summary of Atomic Habits!   🎧 Tune in for laughs, insights, and actionable tips—and maybe walk away ready to ditch those M&Ms (or at least hide them better).

What the hell is Web3? In this episode (the first in my collaboration with Startland News - Website), I chat with Randy Wasinger—entrepreneur, NFT pioneer, and founder/CEO of CryptoSlam (see his bio below). With over 20 years of experience in high-growth businesses and a track record as an innovator in SEO, affiliate marketing, and big data, Randy shares how his early passion for baseball cards evolved into a groundbreaking career in Web3 and NFTs. We dive into Randy’s entrepreneurial journey—from running a baseball card shop as a teenager in small-town Kansas to building CryptoSlam, the leading NFT data platform trusted by industry giants. Randy reflects on his transition from accounting for a major firm to tech, the lessons he learned from his mentors, and the incredible story of attracting investors like Mark Cuban, Reid Hoffman, and Ashton Kutcher. It's a remarkable journey from Russell, Kansas to being a leader in the newest technology (that most people do not understand) for Randy and his Kansas City-based company. Whether you’re curious about Web3, NFTs, or the future of blockchain technology, this episode offers an insider’s perspective on innovation, resilience, and the power of seizing opportunities.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Randy's bio: Randy Wasinger​ (LinkedIn) is the founder/CEO of CryptoSlam, Inc.​ (Website). He has 20+ years as an entrepreneur building high-growth businesses that specialize in SEO, SEM, affiliate marketing, display ad arbitrage & big data. Leadership experience as a CEO, Executive Director for a not-for-profit, youth coach for three different sports, and father of six. 13-time national champion in masters track and field, and 2011 world champion. An NFT early adopter and one of the first NFT "whales". Founded CryptoSlam in 2018, the first and leading NFT data platform, trusted by industry leaders and end-users worldwide, with millions of users since its inception. Randy has raised capital from notable investors including Mark Cuban, Reid Hoffman, and Ashton Kutcher, as well as crypto heavyweights like Animoca Brands and OKX.

In this episode, I sit down with Jon McGraw (see his bio below)—former NFL safety, co-founder of Vision Pursue, and performance mindset expert. From walking on at Kansas State to playing 10 seasons in the NFL, Jon shares his incredible journey, the leadership lessons he learned from legendary coaches (including the legendary Kansas State University coach Bill Snyder), and the physical, emotional, and mental toll of professional football. We delve into Jon’s transition from the NFL to entrepreneurship and how his passion for personal growth led to co-founding Vision Pursue, a company that trains corporate and sports teams in performance psychology. Jon opens up about the importance of mindset, navigating change, and how he turned his experiences with injury and uncertainty into a mission to help others thrive. We also discuss how most NFL players are not happy, the challenge of being present in an occupation where your job can end at any time (and how the NFL stands for "Not For Long"), his transitions from high school football to Division I college to the NFL, how the NFL is not a team sport, and importance of mindset to improve your life experiences. He also answers the all-important question: Can he still bench press 225 pounds 13 times? :-) Whether you’re a corporate leader, athlete, sports fan, or someone striving for personal growth, Jon’s insights will leave you inspired to elevate your performance and embrace a healthier, more balanced mindset.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Jon's bio: Jon ​McGraw (LinkedIn) co-founded Vision Pursue (Website) after its principles radically shifted his mindset, performance, and overall life experience. He’s since guided and assisted in the successful application of these principles inside hundreds of corporate teams and sports franchises. He’s a sought-after keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and Performance Mindset trainer. Before Vision Pursue, Jon played 10 years in the NFL plus completed business management and entrepreneurship programs at Harvard Business School and Wharton Business School.

In this episode of The Corporate Couch, I chat with Joel Zeff (see his bio below), a nationally renowned speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist who has captivated audiences for over 25 years. Known for his hilarious improvisational comedy and insightful messages on leadership, collaboration, and change, Joel brings his unique energy to the podcast. We explore Joel’s fascinating career journey—from his days as a newspaper journalist to becoming a sought-after keynote speaker. Joel shares how improv has shaped his perspectives on teamwork, communication, and embracing the unexpected. He also talks about the power of celebrating small victories (or "Ta-da!" moments) to fuel passion and creativity in the workplace, letting the Universe point the way, and the one question you should ask as a leader. Joel is also the creator of one of the most iconic traditions at the University of Kansas' historic Allen Fieldhouse during men's basketball games. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, Joel’s stories, humor, and actionable insights will leave you inspired and energized. Plus, don’t miss his behind-the-scenes tales from over 2,500 events and the origin of his iconic "Ta-da!" philosophy! Warning: Be prepared to laugh your ass off during this conversation.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.      Joel's bio: ​Joel Zeff creates energy. His spontaneous humor and vital messages have thrilled audiences for more than 25 years. As a national speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist, Joel captivates audiences with a unique blend of hilarious improvisational comedy and essential ideas on work and life. He has shared his experience and insight on collaboration, leadership, change, communication, innovation, fun, and passion at more than 2,500 events. His book, “Make the Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work”, is consistently listed as one of the top work/life balance books on Amazon​ (Joel’s latest edition of "Make the Right Choice" launched November 13, 202​4). He has appeared on CNBC and featured in the Dallas Morning News, Houston Chronicle, The Kansas City Star, and many other media outlets. For more information, visit his website at www.joelzeff.com.

In this episode, I sit down with the vibrant and insightful Susie Tomenchok, author, executive coach, TEDx speaker, and negotiation expert (see her bio below). From being a telecom pioneer at Comcast to leading an international company of over 1000 employees to becoming a mentor and coach, Susie shares her inspiring journey and practical advice for professionals at every stage of their careers (including being an early adopter of having a side hustle). We dive into her unique approach to negotiation as a daily practice, not just a high-stakes event, and explore how mastering this skill can transform careers, leadership, and personal relationships. Susie’s passion for helping others unlock their potential shines as she discusses the art of framing conversations, embracing creativity in solutions, and empowering individuals to confidently advocate for themselves. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced leader looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable insights and energizing stories.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Susie's bio: Susie Tomenchok ​(Website) is a seasoned expert negotiator, career coach, author, and speaker. She is dedicated to empowering leaders to successfully navigate their professional and personal lives through the game-changing lens of leverage and negotiation. A recognized deal maker, Susie has a rich background overseeing an $80 million portfolio that included industry giants such as ESPN/Disney, Boeing, Gallup, Discovery, Viacom, NBC, and A&E. Her success is attributed to her proprietary P.A.C.E framework, which she expertly applies in negotiating complex deals.​ A graduate of the prestigious Betsy Magness Institute and the International Coaching Academy, Susie is well-versed in leadership development and coaching methodologies. She leverages her knowledge as the host of the influential podcast Leaders with Leverage and the author of The Art of Everyday Negotiation Without Manipulation, where she shares essential strategies for successfully adopting a Negotiator Mindset™ as an essential path to success.​ A dynamic speaker, Susie inspires courage in her audiences, encouraging them to become advocates for themselves and others. She dismantles the myths surrounding negotiation, demonstrating how a Negotiator Mindset™ is not only ethical but also drives business growth and career success.​ Today, Susie collaborates with emerging businesses, large corporations, and individual executives—especially women. She focuses on developing and honing the triple threat of superpowers—a Negotiator Mindset™, self-advocacy, and avoiding the path of least resistance—leading her clients toward business growth and career success as a valued and trusted executive partner. Susie finds immense joy in witnessing clients realize their career and business goals.​ Susie not only transforms negotiations into triumphs but also inspires individuals to embrace their voices, navigate their desired paths, and achieve unparalleled success in both business and life.

After over 100 episodes, Paige Pelaccio Meyer (see her bio below) is my favorite guest so far (I am biased since she is my daughter :-). While she knew she wanted to be a nurse, Paige had a unique career strategy that deviated from the typical nurse's first job. She bought the business she worked at for 5 years when she was 27. Two and half months after taking ownership, Paige was forced to shut down her business for 8 weeks due to COVID regulations. She talks about "embracing the suck" to achieve your long-term goals, her failures of leading people who were once her peers, how being a leader can be lonely, how she wants to help people radiate beauty and happiness (both inside and out), and how knowing what you do not want to do can guide your career. As a listener of The Corporate Couch, new clients of Refresh Med Spa will receive $50 off (minimum purchase $150). See their website in the bio below and mention The Corporate Couch.   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Paige's bio: ​Paige Pelaccio Meyer​ (LinkedIn) is a nurse turned med spa owner who started working at Refresh Medical Spa ​(Website) in 2014 as a nurse injector. After 5 years of simultaneously working other jobs to keep afloat, she decided to purchase the business to grow and expand. After navigating a worldwide pandemic as a new business owner, almost 5 years later, the business has grown more than 5x. In late 2024, Refresh is opening its new location, triple its size, to become the first luxury medical spa in Overland Park, KS. Paige started her college career at the University of Kansas and graduated from the University of St. Mary's with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

In this special edition episode of 'The Corporate Couch,' host Jeff P​elaccio interviews Joni Wickham​ the author of "The Thin Line Between Cupcake and B*tch: Taking Action, Driving Change, and Getting​ Results". ​She also co-founded the public affairs firm Wickham James Strategies and Solutions. They discuss leadership in corporate America, the influence of the November 5th, 2024 election on leadership and political parties, and how skills from government and politics transition to the private sector. Joni shares her career journey, insights into effective communication and agenda setting, and reflections on major projects like Kansas City's new airport and streetcar. The episode highlights the importance of meeting audiences where they are and the distinction between leadership and politics.   00:00 Introduction to The Corporate Couch 01:19 Meet Joni Wickham: From Politics to Private Sector 05:03 Insights on the November 5th Election 07:59 Leadership and Politics: A Delicate Balance 08:58 Wickham James Strategies and Solutions 10:42 Kansas City Projects and Achievements 14:05 Final Thoughts and Resources 15:23 Closing Remarks ​  To learn more, ​about the topics above, please visit the Wickham James website.   ​J​oni's bio:​ Joni Wickham (LinkedIn) hails from Raleigh, North Carolina, and arrived in Kansas City almost 15 years ago, bringing her distinctive southern accent and extensive experience from diverse governmental and advocacy roles. Joni served as Chief of Staff to former Kansas City Mayor Sly James, contributing to major development projects and elevating Kansas City's reputation nationally and internationally. ​Joni’s honors​ include the 2019 University of Missouri Truman School of Public Affairs Mel Carnahan Public Service Award; and recognition as one of the 50 most influential people in Kansas City. Joni was also honored as a Woman Who Means Business by the Kansas City Business Journal in 2023. In addition to public speaking engagements, Joni leads workshops on a variety of leadership and communications topics and assists clients with their public policy, strategic communications, crisis communications, government relations, and political consulting needs. Additionally, she is celebrated as the author of the best-selling book,​ "The Thin Line Between Cupcake and B*tch: Taking Action, Driving Change, and Getting​ Results".

Anna Murray (see her bio below) is the CEO and founder of emedia the longest-running woman-owned web and digital transformation agency in the US. In this fascinating conversation, we talk about how she found her company by accident, her journey from English teacher to TV journalist, to tech founder, her stories of misogyny in broadcast news, why journalists make great hires, her thoughts on why planning is a fool's errand, three metaphors to diagnose any situation, being a remote work pioneer (and her thoughts on "forcing" people back in the office), the early days of integrating the internet into the fabrics of corporate America, and her mission to evolve cybersecurity to the next level. You will also enjoy how Anna's grandfather was called "the inventor who powered New York City and how she once gave a tech conference keynote while knitting!   Today's episode is brought to you by ExecHQ (Website), a C-suite fractional firm providing elite executives for your business. If you’re having challenges taking your business to the next level, want to augment your leadership team, or prepare your company for increased growth, profitability, and an eventual successful exit, ExecHQ has seasoned executives from every C-suite position, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs and industry dynamics. To learn more about ExecHQ, email Jeff Pelaccio at jeff.pelaccio@exechq.com.    Anna's bio: Anna Murray ​(LinkedIn) is a tech entrepreneur and founder of ​emedia ​            (​Website) LLC, a provider of software development, high-level technology consulting, and project and program management. She has consulted with brands worldwide on their digital strategies, served as interim CIO for Time Out NY, head of interactive at Harvard Business Publishing, and led the digital transformation at the American Association of Advertising Agencies. Anna is well known for her ability to bridge business and tech and is the author of several books, including The Complete Software Project Manager (John Wiley & Sons).