Finding The Upside

Hosted by Maria DeLorenzis Reyes

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202

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Oct 2026

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About the show

In business and in life there is always an upside…finding it is often the challenge. Having a mindset that looks for it and embraces problems as opportunities is the key to thriving. Successful business owners LOVE disruption. But the MOST successful look for it. It's what keeps their business on the cutting edge and able to adapt to any circumstance. This podcast will feature discussions with business owners, leaders and everyday inspiring people sharing how they have grown their companies and changed their lives by approaching changing conditions with optimism, opportunity and innovation.

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October 20, 2026Episode 2016 min

#201: Rebel Leadership in Real Time: What Public Outrage Teaches Us About Culture

Public outrage is everywhere. Some of it is for good reason. But, what if the outrage is really just revealing more about our culture than the events themselves. In the first part of my new Rebel Leadership in Real Time series, I'm taking a step back from the headlines to explore the leadership lessons hiding beneath today's outrage-driven culture. Every day brings a new controversy, public takedown, or social media firestorm—but what is that constant cycle of reaction doing to the way we lead, communicate, and build trust? In this episode, I examine how fear-based environments impact psychological safety, why accountability and humanity should never be at odds, and what happens when people become more concerned with avoiding mistakes than contributing their best ideas. Most importantly, I share why emotionally intelligent leaders choose steadiness over reactivity and curiosity over instant condemnation. I believe we all want healthier workplaces, stronger relationships, and cultures where people can grow instead of simply survive. Getting to that means understanding that it starts with the way we choose to lead and how we show up in a team, family or community—especially when emotions are running high. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [0:29] Why Public Outrage Reveals Deeper Leadership Lessons [1:33] How Fear-Based Cultures Destroy Psychological Safety [2:55] Why Accountability and Humanity Must Coexist [3:54] What's the Upside? Leading with Steadiness Instead of Reactivity Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

October 13, 2026Episode 2005 min

#200: 200 Episodes of Finding the Upside: One Powerful Reminder

200 episodes. Hundreds of stories. And one idea that continues to prove itself: there is always an upside. For this milestone episode of Finding the Upside , I’m doing something a little different. Instead of another interview, I’m looking back at some of the conversations, people, and lessons from our last 100 episodes—and the wisdom that stayed with me long after the cameras stopped rolling. I’ve talked with entrepreneurs, athletes, executives, authors, artists, coaches, innovators, and people who refused to let their circumstances define them. Their stories may be different, but again and again, they’ve reminded me how much we share: the desire to belong, find purpose, make a difference, grow through what we experience, and leave something better behind. This episode is a celebration of those stories—and of every listener who has been part of this community. Because Finding the Upside has never been about pretending that everything happens for a reason or that difficult experiences are easy. It’s about asking what an experience can teach us, what we can do with it, and how even the hardest chapters can sometimes become turning points. As I celebrate 200 episodes, I’m incredibly grateful for you the listeners, the guests, my team and where we’ve been. But what excites me most is where we’re going next. Here’s to the next 200—and to continuing to find the upside together. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:58] Looking Back at 100 Incredible Conversations [2:20] Turning Life’s Challenges Into Opportunities for Growth [2:33] What 200 Episodes Have Taught Me About Leadership [3:00] Different Stories, Shared Humanity [3:31] What “Finding the Upside” Really Means [4:18] The Stories That Remind Us Our Own Story Isn’t Over Yet Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

October 6, 2026Episode 19953 min

#199: UNEDITED: Women's Stories of Truth, Identity, and Transformation That Shape Leadership is HERE!

After months of writing, reflecting, growing, and sharing our stories, UNEDITED: Women's Stories of Truth, Identity, and Transformation That Shape Leadership is officially launching TODAY, and I couldn't be more excited to share this conversation with you. Recorded during our launch celebration weekend, this episode of Finding the Upside brings together the incredible women behind UNEDITED for an honest and heartfelt discussion about the experiences, labels, and defining moments that shaped their lives. Hosted by Tricia Brouk who is the founder of The Big Talk Press and is publishing this book, we share with you the stories behind the stories—the moments that challenged us, transformed us, and ultimately helped us step more fully into our voices. From being labeled bossy , divorced , too much , or not enough , to learning how to release shame, trust ourselves, and embrace who we truly are, each woman shares the lessons that emerged from her journey. As our conversation unfolds, one thing becomes clear: while our circumstances may be different, the emotional journey is often the same. The fear. The self-doubt. The desire to belong. The struggle to be seen. And ultimately, the courage to stop editing ourselves and start living from a place of truth. This conversation is more than a discussion about a book. It's a reminder that a woman's journey isn't about perfection—it's about authenticity and that is the very thing that defines leadership. It's about having the courage to be seen, to tell the truth about your experiences, and to embrace the parts of yourself you've spent too long hiding. Today, we're celebrating not only the launch of a book, but the voices, stories, and transformations behind it. Because when women stop editing themselves, leadership changes. And maybe, that also changes the world. UNEDITED: Women's Stories of Truth, Identity, and Transformation That Shape Leadership is available now. Get your copy of UNEDITED here: https://a.co/d/0eVRdttz Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [2:22] How UNEDITED Was Born [6:02] The Labels We Carry [17:39] Different Stories, Same Emotional Journey [31:25] Finding Your Sparkle Again [35:58] Recording the Audiobook for UNEDITED [44:17] What We Hope Readers Take Away [52:23] The Leadership Message Behind UNEDITED Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

September 29, 2026Episode 19817 min

#198: The Cost of Silence: Why Not Speaking is LOUD

Most of us don't stay silent because we don't care. We stay silent because we don't want to make things worse, create conflict, or say the wrong thing. But what if our silence is communicating more than we realize? In this episode of Finding the Upside , and as part of the series “Living Your Values”, I explore the hidden cost of staying quiet—both in our personal lives and as leaders. From the workplace to our communities, I examine how the moments we choose not to speak can shape culture, relationships, and the values we claim to stand for. I also share why courage isn't always loud or dramatic. More often, it's found in the ordinary choices we make every day to stand beside someone, ask a difficult question, or simply refuse to look away. If you've ever wrestled with whether to speak up or stay silent, this conversation is an invitation to reflect on what your choices are communicating—and how one act of courage can create space for others to do the same. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:44] Why Silence Is Never Truly Neutral [5:26] The Culture Leaders Create by What They Tolerate [8:16] How Relationships Make Courage Personal [11:19] The Hidden Cost of Staying Silent [15:19] What's the Upside? Why Courage Is Contagious Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

September 22, 2026Episode 19732 min

#197: Expand or Be Expendable: Les Brown on AI, Reinvention and Leading Others ENCORE

In today’s special ENCORE episode of Finding the Upside, I sit down with the icon, the legend, Les Brown for a conversation that unfolds with honesty, warmth, and a depth that only he can bring. We talk about how quickly the world is shifting, especially with technology and AI, and how important it is to stay curious, adaptable, and willing to grow. What struck me most was how aligned we were in seeing change not as something to fear, but as something that invites us to become more capable, more creative, and more intentional in our lives. Les shares stories from his early career and personal life that reveal how often our path is shaped by unexpected turns. His experiences reminded me that even the moments that feel disruptive or difficult can open the door to a direction we never imagined but were meant to walk. We also explore leadership in today’s world, how essential it is to truly understand people, to listen past the noise, and to create environments where individuals feel seen and supported. Throughout our conversation, I found myself reflecting on my own leadership journey and the realization that impact isn’t reserved for big moments; it happens in the everyday choices we make, in how we show up, and in how we treat the people around us. This exchange with Les is filled with insights about navigating life during times of uncertainty, staying grounded in who we are, and finding a meaningful way forward. It’s a conversation that left me both reflective and energized, and I’m excited to share it with you. It all starts right now! Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:49] We Are Going Through Creative Destruction [6:20] What Kind Of Impact Do You Want To Have? [14:30] When There’s Hope In The Future, It Give You Power In The Present [15:14] The Biggest Challenge Leaders Face [16:49] Why It’s Important To Face Things With Optimism and Faith [19:11] Even A Broken Clock Is Right Twice A Day Episode Show Notes Les Brown | Instagram Les Brown | Facebook Les Brown | Youtube Les Brown | LinkedIn Les Brown | Website Books by Les Brown: You've Got to be Hungry: The Greatness Within to Win Live Your Dreams: Say Yes to Life The Power of Purpose: How to Create the Life You Always Wanted It's Not Over Until You Win: How to Become the Person You Always Wanted to Be No Matter What the Obstacle Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . Unlock your leadership potential with the Rebel Leader Assessment! Take my Leadership Skills evaluator quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening or watching the podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page. Laws Of Success: 12 Laws That Turn Dreams Into Reality

September 15, 2026Episode 19615 min

#196: Leading in a World Addicted to Certainty

You don't need all the answers to lead. We're living in a world that rewards certainty. The loudest voices often sound the most convincing, we're expected to have instant opinions, and leaders can feel enormous pressure to project confidence—even when the path ahead is anything but clear. But here’s the thing…certainty isn't the goal. In this episode of Finding the Upside , and as part of the series “Leading Through The Noise”, I explore why some of the most effective leaders aren't the ones who claim to have all the answers—they're the ones who help others navigate uncertainty with honesty, curiosity, and hope. I share why complexity deserves more than quick conclusions, how intellectual humility builds trust, and why moving forward often requires courage before clarity. If you've ever felt the pressure to know exactly what's next, this conversation is a reminder that leading, your team or yourself, isn't about KNOWING the future. It's about helping people move forward when the future is still UNFOLDING. Here's a quick look at what you can expect from today's episode... [1:28] Why We're Addicted to Certainty [3:52] Leadership Isn't About Predicting the Future [5:37] Curiosity Is a Leadership Superpower [8:28] Why Honest Leaders Build More Trust [11:21] Clarity Comes After Movement, Not Before [12:27] What's the Upside? Leading Without All the Answers Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

September 8, 2026Episode 19512 min

#195: Season 6 - The Next Chapter: Bigger Conversations. Greater Impact. More Upside

Welcome to Season 6 of Finding the Upside . Every season begins with possibility. But this one feels different. As I reflect on nearly 200 episodes, one thing has become clear: people don't need more information—they're hungry for wisdom, perspective, and meaningful conversations that help them navigate an increasingly complex world. This season, we're asking bigger questions than ever before. Together, we'll explore leadership in the age of AI, the future of work, belonging, purpose, and what it truly means to create impact in our organizations, our communities, and our lives. I'll also take you behind the scenes of an exciting new chapter for MDR Brands, sharing stories from our partnerships with the New Jersey Devils, New York Jets, and New York Red Bulls, and the leadership lessons unfolding along the way. Most importantly, this season is an invitation. Not just to listen, but to participate. To challenge your assumptions, start meaningful conversations, and discover new perspectives that help you show up and lead with greater humanity and purpose. Thank you for being part of this community. Whether this is your first episode or you've been here since the beginning, I'm so grateful you're here. Welcome to the next chapter of Finding the Upside . Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:02] Looking Back to Season 5: The Leadership That We Need NOW [2:43] Why We Need Better Questions, Not More Information [3:56] What's Coming in Season Six [7:20] Behind the Scenes with MDR Brands & Professional Sports Partnerships [10:05] Growing Our Impact Through the Give Back Program [11:29] An Invitation to Be Part of the Conversation Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

August 11, 2026Episode 19416 min

#194: Hospitality in Leadership: The Leadership Skill No One Talks About

People remember how you made them feel. That is the foundation in everything. When we think of hospitality, most of us picture hotels, restaurants, or great customer service. But I’m proposing that hospitality is actually one of the most powerful—and overlooked—leadership skills we have. In this episode of Finding the Upside , and as part of the series “The Connection Revolution” , I discuss why leadership isn't just about strategy, decision-making, or driving results. It's about creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and like they truly belong. From the workplace to our everyday relationships, the way we make people feel shapes trust, culture, and ultimately the impact we have on others. As technology transforms the way we work and connect, genuine human connection has never been more valuable. Join me as we look at how small, intentional moments of hospitality can become one of the greatest leadership advantages we have—and why helping people feel welcome may be the key to helping them thrive. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [0:18] Why Hospitality Is One of Leadership's Most Overlooked Skills [4:25] Culture Begins with How People Feel [7:48] The Leadership Question Everyone Is Quietly Asking: Do I Matter Here? [12:25] Why Human Connection Matters More in the Age of AI [15:25] What's the Upside? Creating Places Where People Thrive Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

August 4, 2026Episode 1931 hr 12 min

#193: Ideas Worth Doing: Leading with Curiosity with Waleed Khalid

One of my favorite parts of hosting Finding the Upside is introducing you to people who are creating meaningful impact in the world. In this episode, I sit down with my friend and colleague, Waleed Khalid , Founder and CEO of Oxford Talks, to explore what it really means to lead with purpose, curiosity and service. I've had the privilege of working alongside Waleed at Oxford University, Harvard University, and soon at the World Economic Forum in Davos. What I've always admired about him is that he doesn't just create stages for great speakers—he creates opportunities for ideas to grow into something much bigger. Our conversation goes far beyond public speaking. We talk about leadership, storytelling, innovation, kindness in business, and why the most meaningful success comes from investing in people rather than chasing transactions. Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the importance of staying curious, building genuine relationships, and leading from a place of service instead of status. Waleed shares the lessons he learned from building Oxford Talks, the unexpected setbacks that ultimately became turning points, and why every great idea begins with understanding the people you're trying to serve. This episode is a reminder that the most powerful ideas don't simply inspire us in the moment—they create lasting connections, open unexpected doors, and challenge us to think differently about the way we lead, communicate, and live. I hope our conversation encourages you to stay curious, embrace the unexpected, and remember that sometimes the greatest upside comes from the opportunities you never saw coming. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:20] From TED to Oxford Talks: Building a Platform for Ideas That Matter [8:31] Why Kindness Is a Competitive Advantage in Business [20:36] What Makes a Great Speaker Truly Memorable [28:34] Why Stories Connect More Than Information [35:10] Leadership Is Service, Not Status [42:55] Curiosity: The Leadership Skill We Need Most [1:07:20] Finding the Upside in Unexpected Setbacks Episode Show Notes Waleed Khalid | Instagram Waleed Khalid | LinkedIn Waleed Khalid | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

July 28, 2026Episode 19215 min

#192: Outrage Is Not Leadership: Why Real Leaders Build Instead of React

It seems like everywhere I turn, someone is angry. Social media rewards it. News cycles amplify it. And before we know it, we're reacting instead of responding. But is outrage actually creating the change we hope for—or is it keeping us stuck? In this episode of Finding the Upside , and as part of the series “Leading Through The Noise”, I explore why outrage and leadership are not the same thing. Drawing on what I'm seeing in today's culture, and what I've learned through years of working with leaders and organizations—I share why emotional intensity has become the norm and why the leaders who make the greatest impact choose steadiness over spectacle. This isn't about staying silent or avoiding difficult conversations. It's about leading with intention, creating solutions instead of simply criticizing problems, and recognizing that lasting change requires more than emotion, it requires purpose, courage, and action. Whether you're leading an organization, a team, your family, or simply yourself, I hope this conversation challenges you to think differently about the energy you bring into the world. Because the future won't be built by those who react the loudest. It will be built by those who stay committed to creating something better. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [0:31] Why Everybody Is Angry [5:01] WHY Leadership is Becoming Harder [7:52] How Do We Move Forward? [12:33] Every Day We’re Deciding THIS [13:28] Leadership Helps Build What’s Next Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub ! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE . Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE . What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment ! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE . Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now ! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.