

Evoke Greatness Podcast
Sonnie Linebarger
Do you have an insatiable hunger for growth, knowledge, and elevating how you show up in business and in life?Are you curious how high-performing leaders think, operate, and navigate the real challenges that come with building, scaling, and leading?I’m Sonnie Linebarger, CEO and host of Evoke Greatness… a top 2% globally ranked business and leadership podcast fueled by curiosity, performance, and a deep fascination with the psychology behind great leadership.I’m a book nerd, a bit of a control enthusiast, and someone who believes that success is built as much internally as it is externally.On this podcast, we go beyond strategy. We explore the real conversations behind leadership, the decisions, the pressure, the growth, and the personal development required to execute at the highest level.We share the highs and lows and everything in between… because building something meaningful will stretch you in ways nothing else can.My hope is that something you hear resonates deeply, challenges how you think, and reminds you that you’re not in this alone.I believe that a rising tide raises all ships and I invite you along in this journey to Evoke Greatness!
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 28, 2024 • 25min
Daring to Lead Part 2: Josiah Pledl's Bold Leap from School Principal to Leadership Innovator
Send us Fan MailHopping right back in where we left off with Part 2 of Daring to Lead with Josiah Pledl.Can effective communication transform your leadership style? Discover the answer in this episode of Evoke Greatness, where we explore the critical role of being present and conscious in leadership. We delve into the "clear framework" for utilizing emotional intelligence (EQ) in your interactions, starting with a mindful approach. Learn how to circumvent common communication pitfalls and enhance your team's trust and connection through empathetic listening and open-ended questions. This episode isn't just about understanding—it's about fostering genuine compassion and trust within your team. Curiosity isn't just for the curious; it's a leadership superpower. Listen as we discuss how maintaining a sense of wonder and inquisitiveness can profoundly impact your professional and personal relationships. Ever wondered why our natural curiosity diminishes over time? We'll unpack how fear tends to replace it and offer strategies to reignite that spark of curiosity. By embracing this mindset and allowing others to share their thoughts freely, leaders can create more inclusive and innovative environments.https://www.45degreesleadership.com/homehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahpledl/ Before you go, don't forget to rate, review, and share the podcast, and leave a voicemail on our website, evokegreatnesscom, to share your thoughts. Let's turn ordinary actions into extraordinary achievements together!A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

May 21, 2024 • 29min
Daring to Lead Part 1: Josiah Pledl's Bold Leap from School Principal to Leadership Innovator
Send us Fan MailHave you ever stood at a crossroads in your career, torn between the comfortable known and the thrilling promise of what could be? That's precisely the precipice Josiah Pledl, my guest and Founder of 45 Degree Leadership, found himself on when he chose to transition from a school principal to a leadership guru. This episode takes you through Josiah's riveting story of change during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the strategies that catapulted his leadership development methods to record-breaking heights. We probe the balance between personal evolution and professional integrity, all while unwrapping the essential qualities that define transformative leadership.Josiah's journey is one of emotional intelligence and human connections, an art he has mastered and now shares with the world. His narrative brings to light the influence of a childhood surrounded by the compassion of social worker parents, enriched further by his experiences in sports, education, and travel. The episode paints a vivid picture of his people-first philosophy, deeply embedded in the Outlier Project's ethos. As we unravel his story, you'll discover the impact of placing people at the heart of everything you do, both personally and professionally, shaping a community and society that thrives on collective success.Confronting the modern crisis in leadership, we sift through the changing perceptions of authority across generations and the hesitancy of youth to step into traditional leadership roles. Josiah provides a fresh take on how technological advancements are redefining emotional intelligence and the cultivation of trust in an increasingly impersonal world. We break down his three-step leadership model that emphasizes connection, chemistry, and competence, providing a blueprint for rebuilding the essence of personal interactions. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a rallying cry for authentic connection in leadership, beckoning you to join us in nurturing greatness one step at a time.https://www.45degreesleadership.com/homehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/josiahpledl/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

May 14, 2024 • 44min
Leadership Horsepower: Lessons on Trust and Team Dynamics with Summer Davies
Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered how a love for horses could translate into powerful leadership lessons? That's exactly what my guest, Summer Davies, has accomplished, transforming her equine passion into a rich understanding of leadership dynamics. We're taking a deep look into how embracing unexpected opportunities and fostering trust within teams can catalyze both personal and professional evolution - a theme that Summer knows intimately.Navigating the shift from individual contributor to a role at the helm can be riddled with hidden icebergs, even for the most experienced professionals. Our conversation peels back the layers on why teams exist in the first place and the unique value they bring when functioning cohesively. Summer and I share candid insights into the realities of new leadership - the loneliness, the steep learning curve, and the importance of authenticity and support systems. We unravel the threads of common leadership pitfalls and how to sidestep them, with a focus on continuous learning and development.Join us as we reveal the subtleties of leadership akin to the finesse required in equestrian training. Summer's personal story with her horse, Aspen, and his adventures with new shoes, underscores the patience and presence necessary to cultivate trust - a virtue equally crucial in guiding teams. This episode is a tapestry of anecdotes, metaphors, and practical advice, all aimed at helping you unlock the full potential of your team with a steadfast commitment to growth, introspection, and the foundational skills that underpin extraordinary leadership.https://www.linkedin.com/in/summer-davies-m-ed-b3250727/https://www.leader-shop.com/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

May 7, 2024 • 40min
Command with Courage: J. Scot Heathman
Send us Fan MailImagine soaring through the skies, leading thousands with the poise of a seasoned Air Force Colonel.That's the life J. Scot Heathman has carved out, from youthful daydreams influenced by the lure of sci-fi to the esteemed heights of military leadership. Join us as we unravel his unique story of resilience and emotional intelligence that dances through the pages of his upcoming book, "Command with Courage." This episode isn't merely a chronicle of Scot's ascent but a culmination of insights for anyone yearning to learn how vulnerability can be a leader's cornerstone.Scot's tale is a mosaic of experiences, each piece a lesson in leadership and self-awareness. We walk through his early days, from earnest activities in 4-H to the car wash where a servant leader left an indelible mark on his understanding of making others feel valued. These vignettes from Scot's life are more than just memories; they're a masterclass in the subtleties of emotional intelligence and the profound impact of authentic interactions on the trajectory of one's leadership journey.Our conversation takes a turn into the realm of overcoming adversity when we touch upon Scot's courageous battle after brain surgery amidst a world enveloped by a pandemic. His determination to recover, supported by a community that rallied behind him, offers hope for anyone navigating their own turbulent waters. Thank you for listening. Every review, rating, and shared episode helps fuel our pursuit of excellence—one incremental victory at a time.https://elevatingothersllc.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jscotheathman/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

May 1, 2024 • 47min
Leading with Influence and Curiosity: Katie Desiderio & Michael Frino
Send us Fan MailIn this weeks episode, we're unlocking the secrets of transformative leadership with Katie Desiderio and Michael Frino, the brilliant minds behind 'The Beekeeper: Pollinating Your Organization for Transformative Growth.' From an insightful discussion over Chicago pizza, these two academics crafted a fable from the world of bees that beautifully redefines collaborative success.We delve into their book’s vibrant narrative, exploring how the main character, Catherine, discovers profound organizational and personal revelations through her experience in the apiary. Katie and Michael share how understanding individual motivations and leveraging diversity are key to crafting high-performing teams, especially relevant in our era of remote work.As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of their book, Katie and Michael share that a sequel is already on the horizon. Their insights into wielding influence and nurturing curiosity are not just thought-provoking—they're actionable strategies for anyone looking to lead with authenticity and adaptability.So, whether you're at home, in the office, or on the move, join us as we embrace the Beekeeper mentality, building connections and fostering inclusion across any distance. Get ready to be part of a growing community of leaders who are eager to pollinate their teams with creativity, vulnerability, and a collective pursuit of excellence.https://linktr.ee/leadershipfablesA rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

Apr 23, 2024 • 54min
Unlocking Empowered Parenting: Strategies for Navigating Family Dynamics with Michael Anderson
Send us Fan MailEver wonder how to peel back the layers of stress that parenting naturally wraps us in? Michael Anderson joins me to share a treasure trove of strategies that promise to transform your family dynamics. Together, we tackle the challenges of deciphering our children's behavior, the importance of self-compassion, and the deep work necessary for effective parenting. Michael's insights into the trauma-informed approach can help you untangle the knots of past experiences and guide your family toward a more mindful and connected existence.As someone who's navigated the tumultuous seas of raising tweens and teens, I can attest to the necessity of understanding the silent conversations our fears and anxieties conduct with our children's actions. Michael and I uncover the power of empathy and the importance of repairing communication missteps. We also introduce the concept of 'love maps' and the Gottman Card Decks app, ingenious tools for enhancing the bond with your partner, and we discuss how self-love is not merely a state of feeling good but a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our growth.The crescendo of our conversation highlights the launch of a children's book series that embeds mental health principles within captivating stories, a resource for parents and kids alike to journey through life's complexities together. We also spotlight Empowered Families, an initiative designed to support parents through community and coaching. By the end of our talk, you'll walk away armed with practical tips, a fresh perspective on parenting, and an invitation to join a movement toward creating more empowered and connected family units.https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-anderson-44ba36ba/https://www.gottman.com/couples/apps/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

Apr 16, 2024 • 47min
Cultivating the Courage to Grow with Dena Jansen
Send us Fan MailWhen Dena Jansen left the corporate world to become an entrepreneur, author, and podcast host, she didn't just change careers—she transformed her entire life. Her journey, fraught with challenges and rich in reward, is a testament to the power of embracing change. Each moment of fear overcome and each unexpected joy discovered is a stroke in the vibrant painting of her life, which she generously shares with us, inviting listeners to foster a seeker's mindset and find bravery in curiosity.In a world that seems to spin faster with each passing day, this episode serves as a gentle reminder to pause and breathe. Her eye-opening moment came when she saw her daughter imitating her constant busyness, sparking a realization about the importance of being present. Together with Dena, we explore the nourishment of the soul, drawing parallels to the careful cultivation required in farming. It's a conversation that plants seeds of self-trust and curiosity, urging you to give your innermost aspirations the sunlight they deserve.Wrapping up this inspiring exchange, we dissect the five U-turns to personal growth—pivotal steps that guide us back to our most authentic selves. These transformative practices are the heart of empowerment and emphasize the value of listening to our inner voice and the strength found in community wisdom. With nods to the profound influence of figures like Martin Luther King Jr., this episode is a treasure trove of strategies to help you embrace your intrinsic worth and navigate life's cycles of growth with intention and authenticity. Join us on this journey of self-discovery, and let's evoke greatness in one another.Website: denajansen.comInstagram: @dena_jansen - https://www.instagram.com/dena_jansen/Facebook: Dena Jansen - https://www.facebook.com/denaspeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dena-jansen-67859414/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

Apr 10, 2024 • 28min
The Power of Mentorship with Sonnie Linebarger
Send us Fan Mail(This interview was when I was a guest on my good friend Lyndsay Dowd's podcast, Heartbeat For Hire.) Come along with me on a personal trip from talking through my early days as a nursing assistant to stepping into entrepreneurship and becoming a CEO. In this episode I share one of the hardest, most ego bruising lessons I've experienced in leadership and how it transformed me and how I led others. We'll dive into how important it is to have good mentors who can spot and boost what we're good at.This episode isn't just about what I've been through. It’s about dealing with tough times at work and the lessons they teach us. I’ll talk about picking myself up after my company went through some rough changes, the importance of really understanding your business numbers, and how to handle hard decisions with kindness. We'll also get into what hospice care is really about, showing its warm and supportive side during life’s hardest chapters, like facing Alzheimer's.We’ll finish by discussing the journey of moving up the ladder in our careers, especially the extra challenges faced by women in leadership. My drive to mentor and teach is all about wanting to help others find their way to the top as we share inspiring stories of overcoming and success, pushing all of us to make our own mark, one step at a time.A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

Apr 2, 2024 • 52min
A Masterclass in Resilient Leadership with Dan Tocchini
Send us Fan MailNavigating life's tumultuous waves, we often find ourselves seeking guidance on the shores of leadership and personal growth. That's exactly where Dan Tocchini, a seasoned transformational coach, steps in with his treasure chest of wisdom. With a past steeped in personal challenges, including his mother's mental illness, Dan has emerged as a light for those adrift in the corporate seas, illuminating the importance of perspective-taking and the art of communication. His journey is a testament to resilience, and in our conversation, he unveils the innovative approaches that have carved paths for the elite in business and beyond.Honest communication, says Dan, is the bedrock upon which strong leadership stands. He advocates for the necessity of vibrant debate within teams, distinguishing confidence from certainty, and champions the courage to voice one's thoughts. His stories highlight the transformative effects of embracing diverse viewpoints and the criticality of ethical decision-making. Through anecdotes of empowering women in executive roles to finding one's voice in the boardroom, Dan demonstrates how principled communication can forge stronger teams and drive impactful leadership.Wrapping up our exploration of his journey, Dan shares his insights into the nuanced realms of negotiation, persuasion, and cultural influence. He stresses the importance of listening beyond words and fostering environments that encourage alignment and transformation. From supporting individuals in the prison system to spearheading change in corporate settings, Dan's strategies resonate with anyone aiming to lead authentically. As we conclude, remember that every extraordinary journey begins with a single, transforming conversation.https://takenewground.com/https://www.instagram.com/dan_tocchinihttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dantocchini/A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness

Mar 26, 2024 • 43min
Embracing Your Authentic Self as Your Professional Superpower with Betty Rhoades
Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered if you being your most authentic self could actually be your superpower? Betty Rhoades, an inspiring attorney and sommelier, joins us to unravel her remarkable journey from overcoming cancer to standing as a pillar of advocacy, especially for women carving out their space in the professional world. Betty's narrative is a heartfelt testament to the power of genuine self-representation for achieving both professional success and personal fulfillment. Her story is not just about defeating adversity; it's about the courage to be yourself amidst the challenges of the corporate world.This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to bolster their executive presence, with a particular emphasis on public speaking as an indispensable tool for leadership development. Discover how refining your communication skills can not only enhance your individual influence but can also have a transformative effect on your entire organization. Betty offers her insights on why nurturing talent at all levels is crucial for the overall success of any business, and how doing so can lead to greater employee engagement, morale, and a more attractive company culture that lures top-tier professionals.Wrapping up, we zero in on the savvy speaking system—a toolkit designed to empower you in any speaking situation. Betty lays out practical strategies for mastering your environment, understanding your audience, and overcoming those pesky nerves. With her guidance, you'll learn how to transform nervous energy into a dynamic force that propels your message forward. Our conversation is a call to action, encouraging you to take small, consistent steps towards greatness every day. So tune in, absorb Betty's wisdom, and join us as we continue on this extraordinary journey towards evoking greatness in all that we do.www.shespeakscoaching.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bettyrhoadesspeaks/@BettyRhoadesSpeaks on IG A rising tide raises all ships, and I invite you along on this journey to Evoke Greatness!Rho Discount Code: https://rhonutrition.com/SONNIE15Check out my website: www.evokegreatness.comFollow me on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonnie-linebarger-899b9a52/https://www.instagram.com/evoke.greatness/https://www.tiktok.com/@evoke.greatnesshttp://www.youtube.com/@evokegreatness


