Doing it Right: The Stories that Make Us

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217

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Mar 2026

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About the show

Welcome to 'Doing it Right: The Stories that Make Us', hosted by author and national news contributor Valerie Sokolosky.<br />On the show, you'll hear fascinating stories from successful leaders who have lived life "doing it right", the journey to becoming a leader, and personal experiences that formed their character, drive, impact, and influence.<br />Their stories of authenticity will inspire you!

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March 2, 2026Episode 21753 min

Leadership Starts in the Brain | Ep. 215 - Doing it Right!

This conversation will change the way you think about leadership — from the inside out.We spend more than 90,000 hours of our lives at work. The real question is: Will those hours be draining — or deeply meaningful?The answer lies in leadership. The quality of leadership shapes not only performance, but culture, engagement, and the everyday human experience inside an organization. To make better decisions, show up as the best version of yourself, and build workplaces where people truly thrive, we have to start with one powerful place…The brain.In this episode of Doing It Right, Valerie sits down with Dr. Sherry Yellin, a neuroscientist, executive coach, and leadership expert with more than 30 years of experience helping leaders understand the science behind human performance.In her book, The Science of High-Performance Leadership, Dr. Yellin explains how people learn, think, connect, and perform at their best. She reveals how great leadership isn’t just about strategy or personality — it’s about aligning your leadership style with how the human brain actually functions.Creating a healthy, high-performing culture isn’t guesswork… It’s neuroscience in action.Top Takeaways:-THE TECHNOLOGY THAT DRIVES PERFORMANCE IS THE BRAIN-THE GREATEST THING LEADERS CAN DO IS MINIMIZE THREAT-WHAT DRIVES CULTURE? THE IMMEDIATE LEADER-CULTURE DRIVES BUSINESS SUCCESS-BEING A LEADER WORTH FOLLOWING DEPENDS ON SCIENCELET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

February 9, 2026Episode 21643 min

Bold Leaders Ditch Dare Do | Ep. 214 - Doing it Right!

We’re talking about courage – the kind that asks you to let go of what’s no longer working, step into who you really are, and lead with intention. Deb Dib, author of Ditch. Dare. Do., gives a powerful call to leaders who are ready to stop playing it safe and start leading boldly. Deb challenges us to ditch outdated habits, dare to trust our strengths, and do the hard, meaningful work of showing up authentically.If you’ve ever felt stuck between who you are and who you know you’re meant to be as a leader—this conversation is for you.Top Takeaways:-GET GUTSY-DO THINGS YOU’RE SCARED OF-HAVE A FOCUSED BRAND STRATEGY-LIVE YOUR VALUES-TO BE MEMORABLE LEARN TO TELL STORIES-COLLAABORATE AND SHARELET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

January 19, 2026Episode 21539 min

Fashion With Confidence | Ep. 213 - Doing it Right!

What does it take to build a boutique that lasts—and becomes a destination?Betty Reiter, owner of the iconic Betty Reiter Boutique in Dallas’ Preston Center, believes the clothes you wear speak for you the moment you enter a room—and continue to speak long after you leave.Raised in Paris, France, Betty developed an intuitive sense of fashion early on. Today, she brings that European sensibility to life through a keen eye for visual curation, instinctively combining pieces to create personalized looks for every woman she styles. Her philosophy is simple and enduring: “The clothes do not wear you—you wear the clothes."Top Takeaways:-Be flexible when following your passion-Remain young in your heart, thoughts, & activities-Don't miss the gifts of aging-Curiosity is the propeller of life-Business anxieties help you gain masteryLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

January 5, 2026Episode 21427 min

Sacrifice And Authenticity: Fatherhood Lessons From The Radio Dad | Ep. 212 - Doing it Right!

Mike Austin’s journey as a devoted father and respected radio host reveals the power of sacrifice, leadership, and genuine connection. From navigating the challenges of divorce and adoption to mastering the morning airwaves, Mike shares candid stories that illuminate how parenting shapes leadership—and vice versa. His authentic voice and heartfelt lessons inspire listeners to lead with love and integrity in all areas of life.Top Takeaways:-You don't have to tell everyone your life story. Listen more than you talk.-If you see something that needs to be done, don't wait to be asked or told... just do it!-Don't overthink a decision. Give it some thought, ask advice, then take action and live with the results.-LAUGH - at yourself and your situation(s).-Sing - sometimes just to yourself. It is ok to be goofy.LET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

December 8, 2025Episode 21333 min

When Fashion Meets Function | Ep. 211 - Doing it Right!

Luxury handbag designer Stephanie Taylor brings together meaningful craftsmanship & an authentically lived story in every design. She believes life is a journey—shaped by the people we love, the places that influence us, and the stories we choose to carry forward.Her handbags are created for women with full, busy, beautifully complex lives offering timeless silhouettes, soft European leathers, and elevated ease—without adding weight to the day. Each bag holds personal significance, too: Stephanie names her designs after family members and influential people who shaped her path, making her collection as heartfelt as it is luxuriousTop Takeaways:-If it were easy, everyone would be doing it-Trust grows when our choices align... again & again-Life is a journey with unexpected experiences-Faith-based lives teach us to “Be Still” – Psalms 46:10LET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

November 10, 2025Episode 21233 min

Leadership Lessons From Vickie Yakunin | Ep. 210 - Doing it Right!

When disaster struck the Texas Hill Country and floods devastated a children’s camp… Amazon was one of the first to respond. And leading that charge? Vickie Yakunin — Amazon’s Community Engagement Leader in Texas.Vickie’s story is about more than giving back. It’s about leading with heart, building partnerships that matter, and showing up when people need it most.Join me on Doing It Right: The Stories that Make Us — and hear how Vickie’s journey from purpose to impact is inspiring communities everywhere.Top Takeaways:-Work Ethic Matters-Your attitude makes a difference-Willingness to learn will serve you well-Never stop asking for feedback-Mentorship is essential for growth – both waysLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

October 20, 2025Episode 21138 min

Get Cooperized! Live Longer, Live Stronger | Ep. 209 - Doing it Right!

Dr. Ken Cooper is globally recognized as the Father of Aerobics – in fact, his term AEROBICS is officially included in Webster’s Dictionary. A true pioneer in preventive medicine, Dr. Cooper revolutionized how millions think about staying active and healthy.His groundbreaking research and fitness philosophy proved that exercise is not just about adding years to your life— but adding life to your years. Learn his proven 8 Steps to Get “Cooperized” and discover how movement, mindset, and motivation can add life to your years.Top Takeaways:-Discipline Takes Discipline-When Things Get Difficult Wait on the Lord-Perseverance with Purpose-We Need Spiritual & Physical HealthLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!FREE!! —JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ONPROFESSIONALISM AND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://twitter.com/valsokolosky?lang=enSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmoSubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/Podcast

September 29, 2025Episode 21030 min

Dallas Police Chief Shares Insights On Crime | Ep. 208 - Doing it Right!

Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux says it like it is! With sometimes heartfelt stories, he speaks openly and honestly about his life and his career—the good, the bad, and the ugly. His insights reveal enlightening experiences in law enforcement—including narcotics & high-risk investigations.Top Takeaways:-YOUR ACTIONS IMPACT MORE THAN JUST YOU-DON’T TARNISH YOUR BADGE-EMBRACE FAILURE AS OPPORTUNITIES TO GET BETTER-EVERY SETBACK IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GROW STRONGER & WISER-LEADERSHIP IS AN ACTIVE SPORT-IT’S BETTER TO GO WHERE YOU ARE WANTED THAN WHERE YOU WANT TO GOLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ON PROFESSIONALISMAND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE—FREE! www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanyX: https://x.com/valsokoloskySubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/PodcastSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmo

September 8, 2025Episode 20937 min

Hope For The Heart | Ep. 207 - Doing it Right!

Daughter of Texas oilman H.L. Hunt, June’s life was messy and complicated. She tells her story of living with a father who had 3 families going on concurrently. He was a dictator – what he said was law. June was delivered from an abusive, bizarre childhood when she gave her life to the Lord Jesus at age 15 through a biblically based church. Her godly mother helped her understand that her father needed the Lord. June learned she needed to forgive her father, just as her heavenly Father forgave her. She led her Dad to a saving relationship with his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ at age 86, just 10 months before he died, and sang It Is Well with My Soul at both his bedside and at her Dad’s memorial service. Only the amazing grace of God could accomplish such a powerful miracle of redemption!PLEASE DO LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS!Top Takeaways:-ACCEPT UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITIES SO YOU’LL LEARN & GROW-LOOK BEYOND THE FAULT TO SEE THE NEED-KNOW THE REAL QUESTIONS-ALWAYS SEEK FIRST THE GUIDANCE OF THE LORD-DON’T LET OTHERS’ VIEWS STOP YOU FROM BECOMING WHO GODINTENDEDLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ON PROFESSIONALISMAND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE—FREE! www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesokolosky/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCompanySubscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/PodcastSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmo

August 25, 2025Episode 20840 min

RoboPhil’s Vision For The Future Of Automation | Ep. 206 - Doing it Right!

In this episode we dive into the exciting world of robotics with Phillip English, Founder of Robot Philosophy and a leading figure in the UK's burgeoning robotics industry. Affectionately known as RoboPhil, this highly successful entrepreneur discusses his curiosity and fascination with robotics that began at age 7-8 when he watched the movie Short Circuit.He now leads his company www.RoboPhil.com focusing on improving business operations and innovative robotic solutions while also consulting with renowned firms including Airbus, Honeywell and Johnson & Johnson.PLEASE DO LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS!Top Takeaways:-ROBOTS AREN’T JOB KILLERS, THEY ARE JOB SHIFTERS-START SMALL, THINK BIG-ROBOTS ARE ONLY AS EFFECTIVE AS THE PEOPLE WHO USE THEM-PARTNERSHIPS DRIVE PROGRESS-THE FUTURE OF WORK IS HYBRIDLET ME KNOW WHAT FUTURE TOPICS YOU’D LOVE TO EXPLORE!JOIN THOUSANDS WHO GET VALERIE’S BEST INSIGHTS ON PROFESSIONALISMAND EXECUTIVE PRESENCE—FREE! www.valerieandcompany.comFollow her journey and expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieso...Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieAndCo...Subscribe to Doing it Right vlog cast: youtube.com/valerieandcompanyListen and watch Doing it Right the Stories that Make Us:https://www.valerieandcompany.com/PodcastSubscribe, rate, and write a review on Apple Podcast- https://apple.co/2SHDDmo