

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

Jul 11, 2023 • 55min
Fueling Growth through People, Process, and Performance with Claire Chandler
Send us Fan MailEver had a wake-up call that transformed your life? Well, my guest, Claire Chandler, had a big one and she's here to share her inspiring journey. President and Founder of Talent Boost, Claire's life took a sharp turn when she received a cancer diagnosis. This health scare led her to reevaluate her career and discover her true passion. Now, Claire is dedicated to helping organizations and leaders tap into the potential of their people, and she has some valuable insights to share.Let's talk growth. People, process, and performance - the three pillars that fuel an organization's growth. Claire breaks down the importance of understanding the 'why' behind an organization and how this aligns with these three pillars. We also tackle the ever-evolving perspectives on what brings fulfillment and purpose in the business world today. And, guess what? Leadership isn't always as glamorous as it appears. From self-doubt to talent decisions, we delve into the common challenges faced by new leaders and how they can impact an organization's success.Mergers and acquisitions can be a minefield, especially when it comes to aligning leadership teams. But don't worry, Claire has some strategies to share. Self-awareness, team-building exercises, and creating a safe space for dialogue are just a few of the ingredients to successful post-merger integration. Lastly, we discuss how organizations can strategically build their culture, growth plan, and processes around a core purpose. Why choose the right people over the best people? Tune in to find out.https://www.clairechandler.net/https://www.clairechandler.net/culturehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/clairechandlersphr/https://twitter.com/Claire_TalentA 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

Jul 5, 2023 • 40min
Redefining Success: From Lawyer to Unstoppable Entrepreneur & Investor with Crystal Ware
Send us Fan MailEver felt the pressure of societal titles and expectations, only to realize they don't equate to personal fulfillment? My guest, Crystal Ware, unveils her inspiring journey of transitioning from a lawyer to an entrepreneur and investor. Get a front-row seat to her story of letting go of her prestigious title for a non-linear career path. Crystal's story sparks the question: Are you brave enough to abandon society's version of success for your own joy?Get ready to unmask the relationship between money, worth, and happiness. Crystal broaches this often-taboo topic, dissecting how our salary communicates our value within an organization. She articulates the especially paramount significance of this dynamic for women. In a society where the value of caregiving often goes unrecognized, can we rethink our relationship with money and reclaim our worth?Health, wellness, and longevity wrap up my chat with Crystal. We delve into practical tips for integrating a healthy lifestyle into our daily routines. From the convenience of having a sauna at home to the mental resilience garnered from a cold plunge tub, Crystal shares how wellness contributes to not just a long life, but a successful one too. As we close this eye-opening episode, we leave you with the three C's of fulfillment - clarity, confidence, and courage. There is only one question you need to ask yourself...Are you ready to ignite your journey from undervalued to unstoppable? Make sure to check out Crystal and her fantatsic content and offerings below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalwareriskstrategist/https://crystalwaremedia.com/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-clear-with-crystal-ware/id1668683539A 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

Jun 6, 2023 • 49min
Evolving Leadership and Inspiring Greatness with Megan Reilly: The Tippi Toes Story and Beyond
Send us Fan MailThis episode had too much gold to not re-release ! 🔥🔥🔥Are you ready to evoke greatness in your life? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Megan Reilly, co-founder and COO of Tippi Toes, an award-winning franchise teaching kids the joys of dance. Get ready to hear the incredible story behind this successful business and the importance of having a vision and the power of energy and excitement to make it happen.As Tippi Toes has scaled, Megan shares her personal journey of cultivating a culture of leadership among franchise owners by evolving her leadership style. We explore the success of their franchise owners and the incredible culture they've built, motivating and supporting each other to push the boundaries of success. Additionally, Megan and I dive into the world of mentorship, discussing the value of genuine connections and learning from the experiences of those we admire.Lastly, we discuss the lessons from successful parents on fostering creativity and independent thinking in children. Reflecting on the stories of Sarah Blakely and Ramit Sethi, we delve into the importance of allowing children to be themselves and nurturing a positive self-image. Let's embark on this remarkable journey together to inspire greatness, both in business and in life.https://www.tippitoesdance.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganlreilly-tippitoes/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 30, 2023 • 52min
Jessica Doyle-Mekkes: Professor, Vocal Coach & Author of "I'm Speaking: Every Woman's Guide to Finding Your Voice and Using it Fearlessly"
Send us Fan MailJessica is the Head of Musical Theatre at East Carolina University where she has taught voice and vocal pedagogy since 2017. She has spent the last 15 years studying the human voice and working as a vocal coach for actors, singers, and public speakers. An internationally published writer and sought after clinician, her debut book, “I’m Speaking: every woman’s guide to finding your voice & using it fearlessly” comes out October 2023 from Rowman & Littlefield and was recently listed as one of the publisher’s most anticipated titles of 2023 with women at their forefront.She works as a speaker, advisor, and clinician to individuals, groups, NGO’s and businesses small and large teaching women how to harness the power of their voices: in their heads & out of their mouths. In this episode she shares:· What led to her passion around helping guide women in finding their voice.· Her philosophy around the “traditional” public speaker image and why she wants to blow that out of the water.· The science and psychology around how people can use their voice to create different types of desired outcomes.· Some tips around how to navigate tough conversations.· Some of the key things to think about when a woman wants to speak in a more confident manner.· What some of the biggest traps are that women find themselves in when it comes to speaking in the C-suite.· What compelled her to write the book and who the ideal reader is.· What she hopes her 2 beautiful daughters are absorbing from the work she is doing.Jessica has a number of awesome freebie’s on her website. Make sure to check it out and put in your pre-order for her book that will be released in October. You will not want to miss this one!www.jessicadoylemekkes.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 23, 2023 • 29min
The parallels between my 1st year as an entrepreneur and driving on the wrong side of the road in Ireland.
Send us Fan MailI love reflecting and I've been doing a lot of it as my 1st year as an entrepreneur is coming around. I'm also always willing to share the lessons, and even poke fun at myself in the process, if it is in service of sharing with others so that they can gain some insights out of it.I have recognized so many parallels between my experience as an entrepreneur and driving on the wrong side of the road in my recent trip to Ireland. So, take a listen as I recount the story and laugh, to myself, and share the insights.I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and into a place of exploration for your life, personally and professionally!!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 17, 2023 • 46min
Kari Schwear: Founder of Gray Tonic, Executive Lifestyle Coach, Speaker & Author
Send us Fan MailKari guides business owners to unlock their full potential, strengthen relationships, and cultivate a balanced relationship with alcohol through personalized executive lifestyle coaching. She is also the Co-Author of the number one Amazon best seller “The successful mind: Tools to living a purposeful, productive, and happy life.” In this episode she shares:· What “gray area” drinking is and the story behind how her business was brought to life.· What she means when she talks about discovery, not recovery.· How some organizations incorporate drinking into their culture in Corporate America and what her guidance is around this.· What the process looks like when someone may be contemplating seeking out her services.· What the “DECIDE” method is and how it can support the creation of lasting habits.· How she coaches people to navigate hard times without falling back into old habits or patterns of coping.· What has opened up for her, personally and professionally, since recognizing her own “gray areas”· Her perspective based on research and experience of why some people take things to the extreme in their behaviors.· How her faith has been an instrument in her life and work.Kari is just an overall incredible human and I so enjoyed this episode! Check out her website to find out how you can learn more about what she does and follow her on LinkedIn as she has some really amazing content!https://www.graytonic.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/karischwear/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 9, 2023 • 50min
Kelli Thompson: Women’s Leadership and Confidence Coach, Author & Keynote Speaker
Send us Fan MailKelli is the Author of “Closing the Confidence Gap: Boost your peace, your potential, and your paycheck”. She is on a mission to help women advance to the rooms where decisions are made. To lead with more confidence and create careers they love. She is also passionate about helping teams use the power of the Enneagram to identify team members' unique leadership style and improve communication and results. In this episode she shares:· How she made the decision to step out of the corporate world and into her entrepreneurial journey.· Insights into 3 Chapters in her book. o Ch. 3: It pays to be yourself.o Ch. 7: Amplify your voice and make an impact.o Ch. 9: Take your bravest next step.· What “head up” and “neck down” leadership really means to her.· What her daily routine looks like and what her non-negotiables are.· What her most powerful lesson in leadership has been.· What she is working on within herself to get better at.· 3 tips for negotiating salary in our current environment.· Where she sees organizations missing the biggest mark regarding leadership development.· A philosophy that others subscribe to that she doesn’t buy into.· What the most challenging part of the book writing process was for her.She has an awesome website with some great info around her coaching and even some freebies. Make sure to pick up a copy of her book. https://www.kelliraethompson.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelliraethompson/ 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 25, 2023 • 60min
Judi Fox: Founder of LinkedIn Business Accelerator, Entrepreneur & Pioneer Leader in Social Media Strategy
Send us Fan MailIn 1999 Judi started her career as a Chemical Engineer and worked her way up in a Fortune 500 company. In 2008, much like many are experiencing now, she was personally impacted by corporate layoffs. She pivoted and founded her own consulting company, but in 2014 after a family crisis hit, she went back to the corporate world. Lean in and listen to how she pivoted again in 2018 and changed her entire trajectory.In this episode she shares:· What she did from 2014-2018 that changed the trajectory of her life. · What the 4 pillars are that she bases her company on.· How she has positioned herself as an authority on LinkedIn with 45K followers, mastering the game and teaching others to optimize their presence.· Some of the things that people who are new to LinkedIn are missing.· Some of the things that those of us who have been on this platform for a while and have a good following are missing.· Why who we recommend, comment on, or follow on LinkedIn matters.· Why authenticity is the only way to go on a social platform.· Her opinion on AI and how that can influence ones social media presence.· Some new shifts and what to be anticipating as far as new features on LinkedIn.Make sure to connect with Judi if you haven’t yet. Check out her new site as well to see if she can help you optimize your LinkedIn.https://www.linkedin.com/in/judiwfox/https://www.judifox.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

Apr 11, 2023 • 48min
Jackie Summers: Creator of Sorel Liqueur, Gifted Storyteller, Entrepreneur & James Beard Finalist
Send us Fan MailJackie is the Founder of Jack from Brooklyn, creator of the multi-award winning Sorel Liqueur, and the first black person in America to become a licensed distiller. Pour yourself a glass of something nice and sit back as we dive deep into his story of greatness. In this episode he shares:· His story, that goes back over a decade, in his quest to breathe life into a shelf stable version of a drink that goes generations in his family.· How he overcame losing his distillery in Hurricane Sandy, a cancer diagnosis, and being homeless. · What he means when he says “I am broken because I don’t know what I can’t do”· Whether he thinks his warrior spirit comes from his Mom or runs deep in his family line.· What drives his sheer unwillingness to give up.· How a broken heart led him to become an incredible writer.· Why he thinks the status quo exists to maintain itself.· The most powerful leadership lessons he has had so far in his career.· How he learned to trust his team enough to say don’t call me with an idea until its 95% done.· How he keeps himself stretching and evolving.· What he is doing to ensure his business is not only diverse, but· How his faith has been an instrument in his life. Do yourself a favor and go pick up a bottle of Sorel. Sip on it while reading some of Jack’s amazing writings. Amazing combination!!https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-summers-80b80/https://jackiesummers.nyc/https://sorelofficial.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

Apr 4, 2023 • 50min
Laura Gassner Otting: Best Selling Author, Magnetic Speaker and One of the Top Executive Coaches in the World
Send us Fan MailLaura has had a fascinating career from dropping out of law school and joining Bill Clinton's presidential campaign to then being a presidential appointee as he took the White House. After being unwilling to settle for someone else’s definition of success, she left her role at an executive search firm as their youngest Vice President to start her own wildly successful firm. She is a Washington Post Best Selling Author. Her last book, Limitless, came in second only to Michelle Obama’s book. Her new book Wonderhell drops today, April 4th!! (Go ahead and pause the podcast to go grab a copy) In this episode she shares:· Some of the biggest lessons from the evolution of her career.· What drove her to write the book “Limitless” for the world.· Her thoughts on why we’ve come to a place, societally, with women exiting senior and executive level positions in record numbers.· How she came up with the concept for her newest book: Success, in other words, is kinda wonderful ... but it’s also kinda hell. Welcome to “Wonderhell”· How we can learn to lean into our own imperfection to help us grow· What happens when we get to new levels in our career and life around the discernment we should have when it comes to the people who are in our life, even if we may have outgrown the relationship.· The story behind the best advice she ever got, which was “You’re just not that important”.· Something that others value that she doesn’t.· What her non-negotiable habits and routines are.Make sure to go pick up Laura’s latest book, “Wonderhell” everywhere books are sold. Also give her a follow her on LinkedIn and IG. All links listed below. https://www.lauragassnerotting.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/heylgo/https://www.instagram.com/heylgo/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


