In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, John Marshall sits down with Humessence coach, mentor, and dear friend Don Fries to explore the deeper dimensions of coaching and leadership development. Drawing from a 38-year career in the oil and gas industry and his journey into executive and retirement coaching, Don shares how leaders can build self-awareness, embrace vulnerability, and stop getting in their own way. The conversation dives into the power of shifting from "I need to" to "I want to," the importance of values-based coaching, and a practical framework — the Control, Influence, and Accept model — that helps leaders reclaim their time, priorities, and presence. A rich and authentic episode for anyone looking to lead more intentionally and live more fully.

Connect with Don Fries: Website

Takeaways

• Self-awareness is the starting point for meaningful leadership growth.
• Shifting from "I need to change" to "I want to change" transforms motivation and accountability.
• Values-based coaching helps clients align their actions with what matters most to them.
• Leaders who share their development goals create psychological safety for their entire team.
• Vulnerability is not weakness — it is one of the most powerful leadership tools available.
• The Control, Influence, Accept model is a practical framework for managing overwhelm and reclaiming priorities.
• Saying yes to everything means silently saying no to yourself, your team, or your strategy.
• You cannot change people against their will — you can only influence their will to change by doing work on yourself.
• Consistency in small habits is far more powerful than intensity or duration.
• Being truly present is one of the greatest gifts a leader can offer their team.

Visit The Present Professional webpage on humessence.com and learn more about how we support leadership development and culture enablement at growth-stage organizations.

Thank you for listening.

Coach John Marshall | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook

In this episode, John Marshall and Jevon Wooden discuss the critical importance of human intelligence in the age of artificial intelligence. They explore the risks and opportunities presented by AI, emphasizing the need for leaders to navigate this landscape thoughtfully. Jevon shares insights on how to augment human roles with AI, particularly for small business owners, and highlights the significance of emotional intelligence in fostering meaningful connections in a tech-driven world. The conversation concludes with actionable steps for enhancing emotional intelligence and leveraging AI effectively.

Takeaways

• Human intelligence is crucial in the age of AI.
• First mover advantage can lead to pitfalls if not carefully considered.
• AI should augment human roles, not replace them.
• Transparency in AI adoption is essential for team morale.
• Emotional intelligence is a key differentiator in the workplace.
• Connection is more important than ever in a tech-driven world.
• Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence.
• Leaders should involve their teams in AI integration discussions.
• AI tools can significantly enhance productivity for small businesses.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success.

Visit The Present Professional webpage on humessence.com and learn more about how we support leadership development and culture enablement at growth-stage organizations.

Thank you for listening.

Coach John Marshall | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook

In this engaging conversation, Julie Johnston, a Humessence coach, shares her journey and insights on empowering emerging leaders. She emphasizes the importance of public speaking, the power of voice, and the role of improv in coaching. Julie discusses her passion for directing children's theater and the significance of authentic communication in leadership. The conversation also highlights the Game Changers program, which prepares future leaders, and the importance of investing in employee growth to create a positive company culture. Julie concludes with an end-of-year challenge to spread positivity and gratitude.

Takeaways

• Julie Johnston helps emerging leaders build confidence and find their voice.
• The power of making people feel good is central to effective coaching.
• Public speaking is about how you make people feel, not just the words you say.
• Improv skills can enhance coaching and communication effectiveness.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters respect and connection.
• The Game Changers program prepares future leaders for success.
• Investing in employee growth creates a positive company culture.
• Authentic communication is key to effective leadership.
• Overcoming fear in public speaking is essential for personal growth.
• Spreading positivity can have a profound impact on others.

Visit The Present Professional webpage on humessence.com and learn more about how we support leadership development and culture enablement at growth-stage organizations.

Thank you for listening.

Coach John Marshall | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook