Engineer Your Success

Hosted by Dr. James Bryant

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205

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Aug 2025

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About the show

Engineer Your Success is the podcast for engineering leaders who want to thrive, at work and at home. Hosted by Dr. James Bryant, PhD, PE, this show helps technical professionals grow their leadership, sharpen their communication, and align their work with what matters most. Whether you're navigating a new leadership role or leading high-stakes projects, each episode gives you insight and action to build a successful career without sacrificing your personal life. 🎯 What you'll learn: <ul> <li> Leadership for engineers navigating technical and people challenges </li> <li> Effective communication that drives clarity, trust, and influence </li> <li> Work-life integration and setting healthy boundaries </li> <li> Delegation and decision-making that builds strong teams </li> <li> Emotional intelligence for handling pressure and leading with empathy </li> <li> Managing engineers and developing others without micromanaging </li> </ul> If you're ready to lead with intention, overcome workplace challenges, and create space to enjoy your success—this podcast is for you. New episodes drop weekly, including solo reflections and expert interviews. Subscribe today and start designing a life and career that works on your terms.

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August 12, 2025Episode 20530 min

How to Use AI to Think, Lead, and Grow Smarter | EP 205

Is AI a threat to your career—or the ultimate tool to help you lead and innovate? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Silicon Valley entrepreneur Greg Shove shares how artificial intelligence can be used to sharpen thinking, improve leadership, and unlock growth. With over 35 years in tech and seven startups under his belt, Greg explains how to become an AI driver—using AI as a thought partner rather than a shortcut—and why early adoption can give leaders and teams a lasting competitive edge. You’ll learn: <ul> <li> How to avoid losing yourself in the grind of entrepreneurship or leadership. </li> <li> Why adopting AI early can give you more room to innovate and grow. </li> <li> The mindset shift from “AI is cheating” to “AI is a thought partner.” </li> <li> Practical ways to integrate AI into your daily work for better thinking, leadership, and results. </li> </ul> 📌 Mentioned in this episode: <ul> <li> Greg Shove – CEO of <a href="https://sectionai.com" rel="noopener" target="_new">Section</a> and Chairman of Machine & Partners | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregshove/">LinkedIn</a> </li> <li> Section’s AI Academy – Upskill your team in AI adoption </li> </ul> 💡 Take Action: Experiment with AI daily. Treat it as your copilot, not your autopilot—bring your own expertise, judgment, and creativity, and let AI help you think bigger, move faster, and grow smarter. 🎧 Plus — Get a Coach in Your Corner Every Week You’re always the one people come to for answers, but who’s in your corner? My private podcast, Engineer Your Success Insiders, gives you practical leadership tools you won’t hear on the main show. In just 3–5 minutes each week: One Story | One Insight | One Action to help you win at work and at home. Join now at <a href="https://engineeryoursuccessnow.com/insiders" rel="noopener" target="_new">engineeryoursuccessnow.com/insiders</a>.   🔧 About Engineer Your Success Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li> Lead with clarity and communicate with impact </li> <li> Build aligned systems that support your values </li> <li> Avoid burnout while achieving professional success </li> <li> Transform from technical expert to influential leader </li> </ul> 🔗 Learn more at <a href="https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com" rel="noopener" target="_new">www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com</a> 📲 Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant" rel="noopener" target="_new">sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

August 8, 2025Episode 20433 min

Mentally Checked Out? How Aaron Moncur Rediscovered Joy in His Work | EP 204

Feeling mentally checked out at work? Struggling with workplace disengagement or wondering how to regain work motivation? In this episode, Aaron Moncur—engineer, entrepreneur, and host of the Being an Engineer podcast—shares how he went from feeling burned out at work to rediscovering joy by changing how he approached his engineering career. His story is a powerful reminder that even small, intentional shifts can reignite your energy and transform your career and life. You’ll learn: <ul> <li>Why losing your spark is often a sign to re-evaluate—not walk away entirely.</li> <li>The simple but powerful principle Aaron used to find joy at work again.</li> <li>How autonomy and trust fuel creativity, productivity, and positive workplace culture.</li> <li>Practical ways to build a team culture that drives employee engagement.</li> </ul> 📌 Mentioned in this episode: <ul> <li>Aaron Moncur – Founder of <a href="https://teampipeline.us/">Pipeline Design & Engineering</a></li> <li>Aaron’s podcast: Being an Engineer – engineering career advice and leadership tips</li> <li>PDX: The Product Development Expo (October 21–22)</li> </ul> 💡 Take Action: If you’re feeling burned out or disengaged in your job, don’t settle—get curious. Identify one thing that’s draining your energy, and make a small, deliberate change this week to move toward work that fuels you. <h2>🎧 Introducing Engineer Your Success Insiders</h2> You're always the one everyone comes to for guidance and solutions. But who's in your corner? Engineer Your Success Insiders is my new private podcast for leaders who want practical frameworks, not just theory. Every week in just 3–5 minutes, you'll get: One Story | One Insight | One Action This isn't content you'll hear on the main podcast—these are the tools and strategies I use with my private coaching clients. Ready to have a coach in your corner? <a href="http://engineeryoursuccessnow.com/insiders">engineeryoursuccessnow.com/insiders</a>

July 29, 2025Episode 20332 min

Why High Achievers Burn Out—and How to Recover with Next-Level Leadership | Peter Atherton | EP 203

<h3>What if burnout isn’t caused by working too much—but by caring too much without the right systems to support you?</h3> In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Peter Atherton, leadership consultant and former engineering firm principal, about high-performance burnout and building sustainable leadership. From the hidden signs of disengagement to reclaiming agency and purpose, Peter shares a proven, practical approach to transforming burnout into impact. You'll discover how to spot burnout before it takes over, how to lead without falling into the “hero on a hamster wheel” trap, and why time ownership is the most powerful skill no one teaches. Whether you're a technical leader feeling stretched too thin or a high achiever seeking a healthier path forward, this episode will help you build a career that works—for you and those you lead. <hr /> <h3>🚀 Special Announcement: Engineer Your Success Insiders – Your Weekly Leadership Boost What if you had a coach in your corner every week helping you focus on what matters most, communicate with clarity, and lead with confidence? That’s the idea behind Engineer Your Success Insiders, a private podcast for leaders who want practical tools—not just theory. Every week in just 3–5 minutes, you'll get:</h3> <ul> <li> One Story </li> <li> One Insight </li> <li> One Action </li> </ul> It’s the coaching support you didn’t know you needed until now. 🎧 <a href="https://engineer-your-success.moxieapp.com/public/engineer-your-success-insiders">Join now → Engineer Your Success Insiders</a> <hr /> <h2>⏱️ Key Moments in the Episode</h2> 00:00 – Pre-roll: “You can remove the work. It doesn’t remove the burnout.” 01:00 – Peter’s Journey to Burnout and Recovery: From firm owner to exhausted executive 06:00 – What Burnout Looks Like for High Achievers: Emotional exhaustion, resentment, and loss of meaning 07:00 – Breaking the Cycle: From checking out to journaling to leadership consulting 10:00 – The 4 Power Skills and 4 Habits: A practical framework for sustainable leadership 24:00 – Rethinking Delegation and Redefining Success: From heroism to systems thinking 28:00 – Final Takeaways: Micro-leadership, macro-impact <hr /> <h2>💡 Key Insights & Takeaways</h2> <ul> <li> Burnout is fueled by misalignment, not laziness </li> <li> Only high achievers burn out—because they care deeply and carry too much for too long </li> <li> Organizational success depends on personal sustainability </li> <li> Four leadership power skills: critical thinking, communication, connection, alignment </li> <li> Behind every skill is a leadership habit: caring, learning, replenishing, time ownership </li> <li> Leading with systems frees others to grow—and frees you to breathe </li> </ul> <hr /> <h2>🧠 Notable Quotes</h2> <blockquote> “You can remove the work. It doesn’t remove the burnout.” — Peter Atherton </blockquote> <blockquote> “Only your high achievers burn out. Not your mid or low performers. That’s who I focus on today.” — Peter Atherton </blockquote> <hr /> <h2>👤 Guest Information</h2> Peter C. Atherton, P.E. – Leadership Consultant | Author | Former Engineering Firm Principal Peter helps high-performing firms and executives build aligned cultures, scale leadership, and avoid burnout. He is the author of Reversing Burnout and Next-Level Leadership. 🌐 <a href="https://actionsprove.com/">ActionsProve: Strategic Planning, Growth, and Development for AEC</a> 💼 <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/pathertonlinkedin/">LinkedIn: Peter Atherton</a>   <hr /> <h2>About Engineer Your Success</h2> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li> Lead with clarity and communicate with impact </li> <li> Build aligned systems that support your values </li> <li> Avoid burnout while achieving professional success </li> <li> Transform from technical expert to influential leader </li> </ul> <hr /> <h2>🔗 Connect With Us</h2> 🌐 <a href="https://engineeryoursuccessnow.com/">engineeryoursuccessnow.com</a> 👤 Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

July 22, 2025Episode 20227 min

You Are Not Broken, You Are Designed: How to Lead with ADHD | EP 202 | Guest Jake Brown

<h2 style="font-style:italic">What if your ADHD wasn’t a flaw—but a design feature?”</h2> In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Jake Brown, business coach and consultant for entrepreneurs and middle managers with ADHD, about how embracing neurodivergence can unlock new levels of leadership and self-acceptance. From hiding ADHD at work to reframing it as a superpower (without the cape), Jake shares his journey of shedding judgment and building a business that embraces his wiring. You’ll discover: <ul> <li> How Jake reframed ADHD from a liability to a leadership asset </li> <li> The surprising role of doodling in managing overwhelm and unlocking flow </li> <li> How to navigate rejection sensitivity and create judgment-free zones for creativity </li> </ul> Whether you're navigating your own ADHD or leading someone who is, this episode will help you lead with empathy, design your rhythm, and own your brilliance. <h2>🎧 Introducing Engineer Your Success Insiders</h2> You're always the one everyone comes to for guidance and solutions. But who's in your corner? Engineer Your Success Insiders is my new private podcast for leaders who want practical frameworks, not just theory. Every week in just 3–5 minutes, you'll get: One Story | One Insight | One Action This isn't content you'll hear on the main podcast—these are the tools and strategies I use with my private coaching clients. Ready to have a coach in your corner? <a href="https://app.hiro.fm/channel/engineer-your-success-insiders">Join Engineer Your Success Insiders.</a> <h2>🕒 Key Moments in the Episode</h2> 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: James welcomes Jake Brown back to the podcast 02:15 – Hiding ADHD at Work: The invisible tax of masking neurodivergence 05:00 – Finding His Niche: Realizing that 90% of his coaching clients have ADHD 08:34 – From Broken to Designed: The Monet moment that reframed everything 13:00 – The Power of Doodling: How this practice helps Jake focus and switch tasks 15:30 – Rejection Sensitivity & Fear of Judgment: How RSD affects ADHD leaders 18:30 – Unjudged Output: Why play matters more than productivity 20:30 – Creating Your Own Operating System: Practical adaptations that work 23:00 – Radical Self-Acceptance: You can’t lead others until you accept yourself 25:00 – Final Reflections: Lead with your design, not in spite of it 💡 Key Insights & Takeaways <ul> <li>You’re not broken—you’re designed. ADHD isn’t a defect; it’s a different operating system.</li> <li>Masking your identity at work creates hidden stress. When 20% of your energy is spent on not getting caught, you’re not thriving.</li> <li>Doodling can be a focus tool, not just a creative outlet. It helps pause mental chaos and jumpstart action.</li> <li>RSD (Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria) is real. And it explains why so many leaders hold back from showing up authentically.</li> <li>Unjudged output—like play or doodling—can restore confidence and energy.</li> <li>Acceptance is the foundation of growth. You can't lead or connect fully until you accept who you are.</li> </ul> <h3>Notable Quotes</h3> <blockquote> “It’s a design feature, not a design failure.” — Dr. James Bryant “People aren’t broken. They’re just operating on a different rhythm.” — Jake Brown </blockquote> <hr /> <h3>👤 Guest Information</h3> Jake Brown – Business Coach for Neurodivergent Leaders Jake helps entrepreneurs and middle managers with ADHD unlock their unique leadership style and thrive without pretending to be someone else. He’s known for his coaching insights, powerful analogies—and his doodles that have taken over LinkedIn. 📲 Connect with Jake Brown <ul> <li>Website: <a href="https://airballoonadvisory.com/jakebrown/">https://airballoonadvisory.com/jakebrown/</a></li> <li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/airballoon/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/airballoon</a></li> </ul> <hr /> <h3>🔧 About Engineer Your Success</h3> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> 🔗 Learn more at <a href="https://engineeryoursuccessnow.com" rel="noopener" target="_new">engineeryoursuccessnow.com</a> Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant" rel="noopener" target="_new">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

July 15, 2025Episode 20128 min

Leadership, Legacy, and Work-Life Fit: A Journey from NASA to Space Center Houston and Beyond | EP 201 | Guest Brady Pyle

<h1>Leadership, Legacy, and Work-Life Fit: A Journey from NASA to Space Center Houston and Beyond</h1> What if the secret to developing great leaders isn't found in training programs, but in the experiences, mentoring, and coaching you provide along the way? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Brady Pyle, Chief HR and Inclusion Officer at Space Center Houston, about intentional leadership development and creating sustainable work-life fit. From transitioning between vastly different organizational scales to building leadership capacity in growth mode, Brady shares his 70-20-10 approach to developing leaders. You'll discover how to distinguish between mentors, coaches, and sponsors in your career growth, why setting boundaries early prevents workplace burnout, and how personal mission statements guide career decisions. Whether you're an engineer stepping into leadership roles or a seasoned professional navigating career transitions, this episode will help you develop others while maintaining what matters most. <h3>🚀 Special AnnouncementEngineer Your Success Insiders – Your Weekly Leadership Boost 🚀</h3> What if you had a coach in your corner every week helping you focus on what matters most, communicate with clarity, and lead with confidence? That’s the idea behind Engineer Your Success Insiders, a private podcast for leaders who want practical tools, not just theory. Every week in just 3–5 minutes, you'll get: <ul> <li> One Story </li> <li> One Insight </li> <li> One Action </li> </ul> It’s the coaching support you didn’t know you needed until now. 🎧 Join now →<a href="https://app.hiro.fm/channel/engineer-your-success-insiders"> Engineer Your Success Insiders</a> 🚀 Special Announcement Engineer Your Success Insiders – Your Weekly Leadership Boost 🚀 <h2>Key Moments in the Episode</h2> 00:44 – Introduction: Brady's journey from NASA co-op student to Chief HR Officer at Space Center Houston 07:26 – The 70-20-10 Leadership Model: Breaking down experience, mentoring, and training in leadership development 15:21 – Work-Life Fit vs. Balance: How to set boundaries and adapt success definitions across life seasons 19:53 – Out of This World Leadership: Brady's blog, book publication, and building leadership brand 23:31 – Key Question for James: Brady asks about the podcast journey and evolution 26:52 – Final Takeaways: Why human connection skills matter more than ever in the AI era <h2>Key Insights & Takeaways</h2> <ul> <li>The 70-20-10 Leadership Development Model: 70% on-the-job experiences, 20% mentoring/coaching relationships, 10% formal training content</li> <li>Merit Has Three Dimensions: Task merit (what we typically think of), cultural merit (knowing how to get things done), and political merit (having sponsorship)</li> <li>Work Will Take As Much As You're Willing to Give: Set boundaries early and communicate them clearly, or the workplace will consume everything</li> <li>Personal Mission Statements Enable Better Decisions: Brady's mission "to improve leadership wherever I go" helped him say no to misaligned opportunities</li> <li>Human Connection Skills Are Future-Critical: As AI advances, the ability to build genuine relationships and connect with people becomes even more valuable</li> </ul> <h2>🧠 Notable Quotes</h2> "Generally when people ask 'What is your strategy to develop leaders,' they jump right to the training programs. You gotta back up and go, 'Hey, we need to look at the kinds of experiences we're providing to prepare them for leadership.'" — Brady Pyle "It will take as much as you're willing to give it. So you've gotta set your boundaries, then communicate and hold to those, or the workplace is just gonna take more and more." — Brady Pyle <h2>👤 Guest Information</h2> Brady Pyle – Chief HR and Inclusion Officer at Space Center Houston Brady brings 30 years of HR leadership experience, including nearly three decades at NASA where he served as Deputy Chief Human Capital Officer. He supports Space Center Houston's team and 1.3 million annual guests while leading their expansion to serve 2 million visitors yearly. Brady is the author of "Out of This World Leadership: Living the Fruit of the Spirit to Lead Well" and is working on a second book about building culture. 🌐 outofthisworldleadership.com 💼 LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradyapyle/">Brady Pyle</a> 📚 Book: "Out of This World Leadership" (Amazon & Barnes & Noble) <h2>About Engineer Your Success</h2> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> <h2>🔗 Connect With Us</h2> Learn more at engineeryoursuccessnow.com Follow Dr. James Bryant | https://sleek.bio/jbryant

July 8, 2025Episode 20031 min

How to Handle the Pressure of Growing Your Engineering Career

What if the pressure you’re feeling isn’t a sign of failure, but a signal that you’re growing into something greater? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant sits down with Ken Mika, an accomplished geotechnical engineer and construction QA leader, to explore what it really takes to grow in your engineering career—without burning out or losing yourself in the process.  From his early days working in a family flower shop to leading technical teams across the U.S., Ken shares a journey marked by risk-taking, service, and intentional presence. You’ll hear how he uses everything from powerlifting and early morning workouts to breathwork and meditation to manage stress and stay grounded as a father, leader, and doctoral student. Whether you're facing a career transition, wondering how to stay centered while juggling responsibilities, or just need encouragement to take your next step—this episode offers wisdom you can apply right away.   <h3>🚀 Special AnnouncementEngineer Your Success Insiders – Your Weekly Leadership Boost 🚀</h3> What if you had a coach in your corner every week helping you focus on what matters most, communicate with clarity, and lead with confidence? That’s the idea behind Engineer Your Success Insiders, a private podcast for leaders who want practical tools, not just theory. Every week in just 3–5 minutes, you'll get: <ul> <li> One Story </li> <li> One Insight </li> <li> One Action </li> </ul> It’s the coaching support you didn’t know you needed until now. 🎧 Join now →<a href="https://app.hiro.fm/channel/engineer-your-success-insiders"> Engineer Your Success Insiders</a> 🚀 Special Announcement Engineer Your Success Insiders – Your Weekly Leadership Boost 🚀 <hr /> <h3>⏱️ Key Moments in the Episode</h3> 01:10 – Ken’s unconventional path into civil engineering 03:00 – The early family tragedy that shaped his work ethic and values 04:35 – Taking career risks: How to think through your fallback plan 05:20 – Why hands-on experience is critical early in your career 07:15 – Moving from technical roles into strategic leadership 08:00 – The emotional intelligence gained from working on complex remediation projects 09:00 – The power of volunteering: Giving back after being on the receiving end 11:00 – Founding a STEM expo that grew from 100 to 400+ attendees 13:00 – The hardest part of national leadership: Voting for the whole, not just your region 15:00 – Why Ken went back for a doctorate in organizational leadership 17:00 – Transactional vs. transformational leadership in M&A 18:30 – How Ken manages the pressure of work, parenting, and school 20:00 – The deep personal “why” behind being fully present at home and work 24:00 – From powerlifting to yoga: Physical and spiritual tools for dealing with stress 25:45 – Leading yoga sessions at civil engineering conferences (!) <hr /> <h3>💡 Key Insights & Takeaways</h3> <ul> <li> Take calculated risks—Ken shares a clear framework for evaluating opportunities and making bold moves in your career. </li> <li> Experience matters—Don’t underestimate the value of spending time in the field early on. It’s where emotional intelligence and technical judgment are forged. </li> <li> Be fully present—In an always-on world, intentional presence is Ken’s anchor for handling pressure and honoring what matters most. </li> <li> Service deepens leadership—Ken’s lifelong commitment to volunteering isn't just a side activity—it’s part of how he leads, grows, and stays connected to purpose. </li> <li> There’s power in transformation—From technical roles to strategic leadership, from powerlifting to yoga, Ken demonstrates that growth requires shedding old identities to embrace new ones. </li> </ul> <hr /> <h3>🧠 Notable Quotes</h3> <blockquote> “What’s my fallback if it doesn’t work out? What’s the opportunity I’m gaining by taking this risk?” — Ken Mika “We can’t develop future leaders unless space is made by current leaders.” — Ken Mika “I try to be fully present with my kids, fully present at work, fully present in everything I do.” — Ken Mika </blockquote> <hr /> <h3>👤 Guest Information</h3> Kenneth Mika Construction QA Expert | Area Manager at TetraTech | Doctoral Candidate | Yoga Instructor | Volunteer Leader Kenneth R. Mika is a seasoned civil engineer based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with a specialization in environmental remediation. He currently serves as Area Manager and Client Manager at Tetra Tech, Inc., where he leads a 30-person team across construction quality assurance projects.  Kenneth holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and he is pursuing a doctorate in business with a focus on organizational leadership. He has held several national roles within ASCE and was awarded the Edmund Friedman Young Engineer Award and the William H. Wisley Award. He is also the owner of a yoga company and a proud father—committed to leadership that aligns with both performance and purpose. 💼 Active on LinkedIn 🔗 <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmika" rel="noopener" target="_new">Connect with Ken on LinkedIn</a> <hr /> <h3>🔧 About Engineer Your Success</h3> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li> Lead with clarity and communicate with impact </li> <li> Build aligned systems that support your values </li> <li> Avoid burnout while achieving professional success </li> <li> Transform from technical expert to influential leader </li> </ul> 🔗 Learn more at <a href="https://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com" rel="noopener" target="_new">www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com</a> 📲 Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant" rel="noopener" target="_new">sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

July 1, 2025Episode 19946 min

Exit to Excellence How Founders Can Transition with Purpose and Power with Jerome Myers

<h1>Exit to Excellence: How Founders Can Transition with Purpose and Power</h1> What if the biggest barrier to a successful business exit isn't market conditions or company valuation, but the founder's inability to imagine life without their business? In this episode, Dr. James Bryant reunites with Jerome Myers, exit strategist and business partner, to explore why 80% of businesses listed for sale never complete their transaction—and why 75% of those who do exit regret their decision. Whether you're an engineering leader building a consultancy, planning your eventual exit, or simply interested in leadership development, this conversation reveals why identity work is just as important as financial planning. <h2>Key Moments in the Episode</h2> 02:52 – The Sobering Statistics: Only 20% of listed businesses successfully sell, and 75% regret it 05:00 – The Founder's Exit Paradox: How founders become so intertwined with their business that separation feels impossible 15:10 – The Six Centers of Doubt: Where uncertainty hits hardest for exiting business owners 23:00 – Four Post-Exit Archetypes: Victim, hero, villain, or guide—who will you become? 27:14 – The NEXT Framework: Nourish, Evaluate, eXplore, Transcend 39:19 – Dr. Bryant's Story: How his son's near-death experience crystallized his values <h2>Jerome's Philosophy: Love vs. Fear Decision Making</h2> Core Principle: "Love is the only law. Fear is the opposite of love. When making decisions, we get to pick which emotion drives that decision." The Six Centers of Doubt Framework: <ol> <li>Self-Image – Redefining who you are without your business role</li> <li>Relationships – 60%+ of daily relationships will change post-exit</li> <li>Work – What to do with 30-100 hours previously spent on business</li> <li>Health – Reprioritizing wellness in an older body</li> <li>Prosperity – Optimizing time, talent, energy, and treasure (not just money)</li> <li>Significance – Finding meaning through service to others</li> </ol> <h2>Key Takeaways for Technical Leaders</h2> • Identity separation is crucial – Whether transitioning from engineer to leader or founder to post-exit life • Proactive planning beats reactive – Develop your next identity before you need it • Systems thinking applies – Treat major transitions like complex engineering projects • From hero to guide – The most fulfilling path leads to developing others rather than being the main character <h2>🧠 Notable Quotes</h2> "You can't become the person in the moment. You have to be the person when the moment arrives." — Jerome Myers "We want to help somebody exit to something instead of exit from their company." — Jerome Myers   <h2>👤 Guest Information</h2> Jerome Myers – Exit Strategist & Transformation Guide Helps founders exit with clarity and confidence, focusing on post-exit fulfillment rather than just transaction completion. Author of "Exit to Excellence: Your Journey to Your Next." Website: <a href="https://exittoexcellence.com/" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline">https://exittoexcellence.com</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromemyers/" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline">Jerome Myers</a> Previous Episode: <a href="https://podopshost.com/success/43288" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline">Listen here</a>   <hr /> <h2>About Engineer Your Success</h2> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> 🔗 Connect With Us Learn more at <a href="http://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com/" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline">www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com </a> Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant" style="color:#467886; text-decoration:underline">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

June 24, 2025Episode 19827 min

Tried It All? How One Veteran Found His Path by Figuring It Out Along the Way

<h1>Tried It All? How One Veteran Found His Path by Figuring It Out Along the Way</h1> What if the biggest barrier to entrepreneurial success isn't having a perfect plan, but being paralyzed by trying to find one? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Matt Thompson, Navy veteran, management consultant, and franchise owner, about the power of taking action without having all the answers. From missing out on the Naval Academy to opening a men's grooming franchise, Matt shares why "figuring it out along the way" often beats waiting for the perfect opportunity. You'll discover why communication with your spouse is the most overlooked aspect of entrepreneurship, how to pivot when reality doesn't match expectations, and what it really means to "just do it" in business. Whether you're considering a career change or exploring franchise ownership, this episode will help you move from analysis to action. <h2>Key Moments in the Episode</h2> 00:00 – The Cost of Poor Communication: Matt's biggest regret about starting his franchise and the hidden burden on spouses 02:10 – From Naval Academy Rejection to 20-Year Career: How being a "first alternate" led to an unexpected path of continuous growth 03:32 – The Chemistry Degree He Never Used: Why trying multiple paths until something fits is better than forcing the wrong one 04:43 – Accidental Entrepreneur: From retirement planning to owning a training company—how opportunities reveal themselves 05:42 – Hammer & Nails Franchise Discovery: Why his wife's "no food" rule led to the men's grooming industry 07:25 – Surprising Customer Insights: The unexpected demographics embracing men's self-care and manicures 08:35 – Marketing Reality Check: Why explaining your business concept to every potential customer is harder than expected 12:37 – Three Pieces of Franchise Advice: Just do it, ask for help, and talk to anyone who's done it before 15:25 – The Communication Lesson: What Matt wishes he knew about preparing his wife for the stress and uncertainty 18:50 – Role Reversal Interview: Matt turns the tables and interviews Dr. Bryant about entrepreneurial lessons 23:09 – Defining Success: How winning at work and home changes as life circumstances evolve <h2>Key Insights & Takeaways</h2> <ul> <li>Don't wait for the perfect plan—start moving forward and pivot as needed</li> <li>The biggest entrepreneurial challenge is often communication with your spouse, not business strategy</li> <li>Be willing to "figure it out" rather than having all the answers upfront</li> <li>Most business people are eager to help and share their experiences if you approach them relationally</li> <li>Success definitions must evolve with your life circumstances and family needs</li> </ul> <h2>🧠 Notable Quotes</h2> "I don't know how to do it, but I'm gonna figure it out." — Matt Thompson "Don't be paralyzed by trying to analyze it and find the perfect solution. Start moving forward and then pivot if you need to." — Matt Thompson "Share your story sooner. There are more people that can be impacted by you showing up authentically as yourself." — Dr. James Bryant <h2>👤 Guest Information</h2> Matt Thompson – Navy Veteran, Management Consultant & Franchise Owner 20-year Navy veteran, DBA candidate, and owner of Hammer & Nails men's grooming franchise in San Antonio. Matt specializes in project management training and helps aspiring entrepreneurs through mentoring and real-world business experience. 💼 LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/thompsonmatthewa/">Matt Thompson </a>📧 Email - mattt@hngrooming.com 📍 San Antonio, Texas <hr /> <h2>About Engineer Your Success</h2> Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> <h2>🔗 Connect With Us</h2> Learn more at <a href="http://www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com">www.engineeryoursuccessnow.com </a>Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

June 17, 2025Episode 19723 min

What's the Problem with Wanting More? Career Advice for Ambitious Engineers | EP 197

What if the guilt you feel about wanting more in your career isn't a character flaw, it's actually a sign you're ready for your next level of growth? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Jake Kennington, a practicing structural engineer and coach, about the struggle ambitious professionals face when they have "everything" but still want more. From working 4 days a week to pursue entrepreneurship to using engineering principles for life design, Jake shares why "constructive discontent" is actually healthy and how to build a strong foundation for both career and personal fulfillment. You'll discover Jake's "strong beam, stronger column" philosophy, learn his three essential habits for personal development, and understand why wanting more isn't selfish, it's strategic. Whether you're feeling stuck in a good job or guilty about your ambitions, this episode will help you embrace growth without compromising gratitude. ⏱️ Key Moments in the Episode 00:00 – Constructive Discontent: Jake's honest struggle with wanting more despite having "so much" 01:45 – From Math to Structures: Jake's journey through different engineering disciplines 03:25 – Small Firm vs. Large Firm: Why new engineers should start small, then scale up 05:44 – The "More" Dilemma: How to articulate what you really want in your career 09:03 – Going Back: Jake's strategic return to a smaller firm for work-life design 12:21 – Strong Beam, Stronger Column: Engineering principles applied to life balance 17:22 – Three Life-Changing Habits: Morning routines, reflective writing, and creative projects 20:42 – Role Reversal: Jake interviews James about faith integration and business evolution 👤 Guest Information Jake Kennington – Structural Engineer & Human Engineer Coach Licensed structural engineer with 10+ years experience | Works 4 days/week practicing, 1 day coaching 🌐 humanengineercoach.com | Specializes in one-on-one coaching for engineers and engineering leaders 💡 Key Insights & Takeaways <ul> <li>"Constructive discontent" allows you to be grateful while still pursuing growth</li> <li>Career paths don't have to be linear—you're allowed to change your mind</li> <li>Personal life is your foundation ("stronger column") that supports your career ("strong beam")</li> <li>Small firms offer broad exposure; large firms provide deep, specialized experience</li> <li>Most people are motivated by either gaining something or avoiding pain, know which drives you</li> </ul> 🧠 Notable Quotes "There's this idea of a constructive discontent, you can be grateful for what you have and still want more." — Jake Kennington "I prefer strong beam, stronger column. Our personal life—who we are and how we spend our time outside of our career—is actually more important than what we do in our careers." — Jake Kennington 🔧 Jake's Three Essential Habits <ol> <li>Own Your Morning: Read, write, run—focus on mental and physical health before work demands</li> <li>Daily Reflective Writing: Journal to extract wisdom from experiences and decisions</li> <li>Creative Projects: Lead something outside your day job to exercise different muscles</li> </ol> 🎙️ About Engineer Your Success Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> 🔗 Connect With Us Learn more at engineeryoursuccessnow.com Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

June 10, 2025Episode 19622 min

How High Achievers Can Successfully Navigate Career Transitions and Workplace Challenges | EP 196

<h1>How High Achievers Can Successfully Navigate Career Transitions and Workplace Challenges</h1> What if the biggest barrier to career advancement isn't your technical skills, it's how you navigate workplace transitions and speak up in rooms where you're "the only"? In this episode of Engineer Your Success, Dr. James Bryant talks with Ashley Rudolph, performance coach and former tech VP, about the unique challenges high achievers face during career transitions. From leading through layoffs to overcoming "the only" syndrome, Ashley shares why execution matters more than planning when it comes to real career transformation. You'll discover why "Ashley excels at excellence" became her defining moment, how to adapt when environments aren't built for you, and what it really takes to turn transitions into opportunities. Whether you're eyeing a promotion or navigating workplace challenges, this episode will help you lead with confidence through uncertainty. Key Moments in the Episode 00:00 – Leadership Under Pressure: Ashley's critical decision-making moment during team layoffs and the type of leader she chose to become 01:32 – Defining High Performers: The "Ashley excels at excellence" origin story and what drives people to continuously push for better 02:57 – Tech Executive Journey: How Ashley grew from individual contributor to VP in 5 years and the mistakes she learned from 04:09 – Navigating Career Transitions: Leading through uncertainty and preparing your team for their next chapters 09:27 – "Being the Only" Concept: Why it's different from imposter syndrome and how to thrive in rooms not designed for you 10:33 – The Left-Handed Analogy: Adapting to environments built for others without giving up on your goals 11:51 – Three Dimensions of Transformation: Ashley's proven coaching methodology that focuses on real change, not just planning 16:29 – Role Reversal Interview: What high achievers really struggle with—worthiness and self-sabotage patterns 19:41 – Purpose and Calling: Why both coaches continue doing this work and the impact on their clients' lives   Key Insights & Takeaways <ul> <li>High performers are driven by an internal need to continuously excel</li> <li>"Being the only" in a room creates unique challenges beyond typical imposter syndrome</li> <li>Most coaching fails at execution—focus on daily actions, not just strategies</li> <li>True leadership is revealed in how you handle crisis situations</li> <li>Even technical professionals with strong expertise struggle with feelings of worthiness</li> </ul> 🧠 Notable Quotes "I'm willing to do the hard things and I'm willing to have the hard conversations—I'm just not someone that runs away from the scary things." — Ashley Rudolph "People pay me for the change. They don't pay me for presentation, they don't pay me for a plan." — Ashley Rudolph 👤 Guest Information Ashley Rudolph – Performance Coach & Former Tech Executive Founder of Work with Ashley R | Specializes in high achiever career transitions 🌐 workwithashleyr.com 📧 newsletter.workwithashleyr.com 💼 LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyrudolph/">Ashley Rudolph</a> (with a pH - like Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer)     About Engineer Your Success Engineer Your Success equips technical professionals and business owners to become confident, purpose-driven leaders who thrive at work and at home. Through executive coaching, business consulting, and strategic content solutions, we help you: <ul> <li>Lead with clarity and communicate with impact</li> <li>Build aligned systems that support your values</li> <li>Avoid burnout while achieving professional success</li> <li>Transform from technical expert to influential leader</li> </ul> 🔗 Connect With Us Learn more at engineeryoursuccessnow.com Follow Dr. James Bryant | <a href="https://sleek.bio/jbryant">https://sleek.bio/jbryant</a>

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Listen to episodes

How to Use AI to Think, Lead, and Grow Smarter | EP 205

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What&apos;s the Problem with Wanting More? Career Advice for Ambitious Engineers | EP 197

How High Achievers Can Successfully Navigate Career Transitions and Workplace Challenges | EP 196

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What's the Problem with Wanting More? Career Advice for Ambitious Engineers | EP 197