Whiskey, Jazz and Leadership

Hosted by Galen Bingham

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329

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May 2026

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About the show

Galen Bingham invites fellow thought and industry leaders to share the whiskies they drink, jazz music they listen to, and advice on what it really takes to be an effective leader. This is straight talk you can‘t get anywhere else. Known as The Leadership Strategist®, Galen Bingham gives listeners the opportunity to learn insights from guests and his 3 decades in corporate America as a Fortune 100 Executive, retail business owner, and Certified Executive Coach. As CEO and Founder of Kiln Global Coaching and Consulting, Galen Bingham is The Leadership Strategist®. The show interweaves a passion for whiskies, appreciation for jazz music and principles for enhancing personal and organizational leadership. The show mixes the intimacy Galen brings to every conversation with seasoned insights from his multifaceted guests. Pour one the way you like to drink it. This is not your ordinary leadership podcast. This is Whiskey, Jazz and Leadership . What you drinking? Cheers!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 12, 2026Episode 4722 min

Season 9 Recap: Leadership Under Pressure

Podcast Description: In this powerful Season 9 Recap of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham reflects on a season defined by high-stakes decision-making. There is a moment every leader faces when the data is incomplete, the room is watching, and the choices carry real weight. This episode breaks down how exceptional leaders think and act when leadership stops being theory and becomes reality. Galen highlights key moments from 17 incredible guests who do not wait for clarity—they create it. You will revisit insights from Melvin Gilliam Sr. on boardroom principles, Olu Burrell on neuroscience-based thinking, DeVone Holt on living a legacy of conviction, and Hugh Roth on enterprise leadership at the highest levels. From the discipline of jazz mastery with Lenny Price to the courage of trusting your own signal with Yolessa Lawrence, this recap captures the essence of what it takes to lead under pressure. This season was proudly sponsored by Kiln Global Coaching and Consulting. When the pressure hits, many leaders hesitate. When ROI is on the line, you do not have that luxury. Visit KilnGlobalCoaching.com to learn more. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to extended conversations, a deep archive of exclusive interviews, and a closer look at how real leaders think when the pressure is on. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

May 8, 2026Episode 4628 min

The Art of Leadership: Hugh Roth on Mentorship, Curiosity, and Leading Leaders (Part 2)

Podcast Description: In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his dynamic conversation with Hugh Roth, Chief Customer Officer and seasoned leader with a career spanning iconic brands like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and American Express. This episode dives deep into the nuances of leading leaders, the importance of curiosity, and how to create an environment where teams thrive. Hugh shares his insights on the value of asking catalytic questions, the role of mentors in shaping leadership, and the challenges of transitioning from being a "hunter" to a "guide." With wisdom gained from decades of experience and a passion for empowering others, Hugh offers actionable advice for leaders at every stage of their journey. What you drinking? Galen pours the last of his Stagg bourbon, a bold and fiery whiskey from the Buffalo Trace family, clocking in at a powerful 130 proof—perfect for a conversation about bold leadership and big ideas. Meanwhile, Hugh keeps it sharp and refreshing with Zero Sugar Mountain Dew, his go-to drink by day, while hinting at its potential as a mixer when the time is right. Together, their drink choices reflect the balance of boldness and clarity that defines great leadership. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

May 5, 2026Episode 1728 min

Hugh Roth on Building Trust, Strengths, and Impact (Part 1)

Podcast Description: In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with Hugh Roth, Chief Customer Officer and seasoned leader with a career spanning iconic brands like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and American Express. Hugh shares his journey from his roots in Pittsburgh to leading global teams, offering invaluable insights into leadership, trust, and creating value in the eyes of others. This episode dives into the essence of leadership, the importance of humility, and how to create an environment where people feel empowered to bring their best ideas forward. Hugh and Galen explore the significance of playing to your team’s strengths, building trust through transparency, and the lessons learned from working with some of the most respected leaders in the industry. What you drinking? Galen pours the last corner of his bottle of Stagg bourbon, a bold and complex whiskey from the Buffalo Trace family, clocking in at a fiery 130 proof. The occasion? A conversation with a leader who’s been foundational to his own leadership journey. Meanwhile, Hugh keeps it responsible with Zero Sugar Mountain Dew, his go-to drink by day, but hints at its potential as a mixer when the time is right. Together, their choices set the stage for a rich and reflective dialogue. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

May 1, 2026Episode 1632 min

Melissa Majors on Courage, Storytelling, and Connection (Part 2)

Podcast Description: In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his powerful conversation with leadership expert and storyteller Melissa Majors. This episode dives even deeper into the art of leading with humanity, the courage it takes to challenge the status quo, and the transformative power of storytelling in building trust and inspiring action. Melissa shares her insights on how leaders can embrace their humanity, foster inclusion, and create environments where people thrive. From the leadership principles of Jesus to the neuroscience of storytelling, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable advice for leaders at every level. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a velvety bourbon finished in port wine barrels, perfect for a conversation about courage and connection. Meanwhile, Melissa raises her glass of Russell’s Reserve whiskey, sharing how it became a heartfelt tribute to her late father. Their drink choices, much like their dialogue, are rich, layered, and full of meaning. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

April 28, 2026Episode 1227 min

Melissa Majors on Leadership, Connection, and Impact (Part 1)

Podcast Description: In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with the inspiring Melissa Majors, a leadership expert, storyteller, and coach. Melissa shares her journey from teaching her father to read as a child to becoming a global leader in corporate education and human-centered leadership. With her unique blend of emotional intelligence, storytelling, and practical wisdom, Melissa reveals how leaders can inspire action, foster connection, and create lasting impact. This episode dives into the art of leadership storytelling, the importance of understanding your team’s motivations, and how embracing both the joys and pains of life can make you a better leader. Melissa’s insights are as heartfelt as they are actionable, making this a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their leadership game. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a smooth bourbon finished in port wine barrels, perfect for a sophisticated and reflective conversation. Meanwhile, Melissa raises a glass of Russell’s Reserve whiskey, sharing a touching story about how it became a tribute to her late father. Together, their drinks and stories set the stage for a rich and meaningful discussion. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

April 24, 2026Episode 1532 min

Jimmy Cannon on Jazz, Leadership, and Vocal Mastery (Part 2)

Podcast Description: In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his engaging conversation with voice and speaking coach Jimmy Cannon. With a foundation as a professional jazz musician and vocal coach, Jimmy delves deeper into the art of using your voice to inspire, connect, and lead with authenticity. This episode explores the intersection of jazz improvisation and leadership, the emotional power of vocal delivery, and the decision to "go pro" in your craft. Jimmy and Galen discuss how to overcome vocal habits, project confidence, and create meaningful connections through tone, pitch, and resonance. Listen in as Jimmy reflects on: • The Connection Between Jazz and Leadership: Why improvisation and adaptability are essential for effective leadership. • Mastering Vocal Resonance: How to unlock the full potential of your voice to inspire and lead. • The Decision to Go Pro: Why committing to mastery is the key to greatness in any field. • The Emotional Impact of Voice: How sincerity and tone can transform your message and influence others. • The Power of Practice: Why refining your voice is a lifelong journey, much like jazz itself. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of smooth bourbon whiskey, while Jimmy shares his newfound appreciation for bourbon and his love for IPA bitters. Together, they toast to the art of leadership and the craft of communication. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that resonates!

April 21, 2026Episode 1529 min

Finding Your Voice: Jimmy Cannon on Mastering Vocal Power and Confidence (Part 1)

Podcast Description: In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham takes the conversation across the pond to The UK, where he sits down with voice and speaking coach Jimmy Cannon. With a rich background as a professional jazz musician and vocal coach, Jimmy shares his journey from the world of music to helping professionals master their voices for greater impact and confidence. This episode dives into the art and science of using your voice effectively, whether you're leading a team, presenting to an audience, or simply trying to project authority in everyday conversations. Jimmy and Galen explore the parallels between jazz improvisation and public speaking, the importance of self-awareness, and how to overcome common vocal habits that can undermine your message. Listen in as Jimmy Reflects on: The Power of Practice: Why mastering your voice is like learning to improvise in jazz—it takes preparation and flow. Overcoming Vocal Habits: How to address issues like upspeak, vocal fry, and filler words to project confidence. The Role of Self-Awareness: Why recording and listening to yourself is key to improving your vocal delivery. Jazz and Leadership: How the principles of improvisation apply to speaking and leading with authenticity. The Emotional Impact of Voice: How your tone, pitch, and delivery can influence how others perceive your message. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a smooth and slightly sweet bourbon finished in wine barrels, perfectly suited for a conversation about refining your craft. Meanwhile, Jimmy opts for a refreshing red berry and sour cherry drink, while sharing his love for IPA bitters and his dream of one day enjoying bourbon. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

April 17, 2026Episode 1429 min

Faith, Family, and Flexibility: Bo Stephens on Leadership and Life (Part 2)

Podcast Description: In Part 2 of this heartfelt and insightful conversation on Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham reconnects with longtime friend and leadership pro, Bo Stephens. This episode dives deep into the art of balancing faith, family, and work while navigating the challenges of leadership in both personal and professional settings. Bo shares how flexibility and authenticity have shaped his approach to building relationships, managing a team, and leading a family. From adapting business strategies to embracing the unexpected, Bo and Galen explore the importance of staying true to your values while remaining open to new opportunities. Listen in as Bo Reflects on: Marrying the Objective, Dating the Strategy: Why flexibility is key to achieving long-term goals. Friends Buy from Friends: The power of building genuine relationships in business. Leadership at Home: How Bo approaches his role as a father, husband, and now father-in-law with intention and care. Faith in Action: Why being genuine in your faith is more impactful than being overbearing. The Transition to Leadership: How to shift from being an individual contributor to managing and inspiring a team. What you drinking? Galen pours another glass of Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a classic that’s as reliable as it is satisfying. Meanwhile, Bo continues to enjoy Casa Azul Tequila with a splash of club soda and a twist of lime, reflecting his ability to embrace new passions while staying true to himself. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

April 14, 2026Episode 1428 min

Bass Boats, Bourbon, and Bold Leadership: Bo Stephens on Building a Brand (Part 1)

Podcast Description: In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham reconnects with longtime friend and three-time guest, Bo Stephens. Bo, now leading sales and dealer development for Ikon Boats, shares his journey from corporate leadership in the medical device industry to building a luxury bass boat brand from the ground up. This episode dives into the art of leadership in a small, high-impact team, the importance of genuine customer relationships, and how to create a culture of accountability and excellence. With decades of friendship and shared experiences, Galen and Bo explore how whiskey, jazz, and leadership intersect in both life and business. Listen in as Bo Reflects on: The Power of Simplicity: Why great leadership is about clear communication, removing barriers, and inspiring others. Customer Experience: How Ikon Boats is building a brand one interaction at a time. The Courage to Be Authentic: Why being yourself is the key to building trust and connection. Improvisation in Leadership: How to adapt when plans don’t go as expected. Faith, Family, and Work: Why integrating all aspects of life creates a more genuine leadership style. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of @buffalotrace Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a classic and reliable choice that “just gets the job done.” Meanwhile, Bo sips on Casa Azul Tequila with a splash of club soda and a twist of lime, reflecting his current affinity for tequila and his ability to embrace new passions. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

April 10, 2026Episode 1329 min

Soul in the Driver’s Seat: Yolessa Lawrinnce on Trusting Intuition, Letting Go, and Spiritual Awakening (Part 2)

Podcast Description: In Part 2 of this transformative two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his profound conversation with Yolessa Lawrinnce, spiritual healer, psychic medium, and executive director of Sedona Healing Arts. This episode dives deeper into the courage it takes to let go of societal expectations, trust your intuition, and put your soul in the driver’s seat of your life. Yolessa shares her insights on overcoming fear, embracing connection, and stepping into your true purpose. Together, Galen and Yolessa explore the higher levels of being, the power of self-love, and the importance of taking action to align with your soul’s calling. This conversation is a masterclass in spiritual growth, self-discovery, and the art of living a life that’s truly your own. Listen in as Yolessa Reflects on: Overcoming Fear: Why safety is an illusion and how to move beyond it. Trusting Your Intuition: How to let go of control and allow your soul to guide you. The Power of Connection: Why self-love and connection are essential for spiritual growth. Letting Go of Techniques: How to trust your knowledge and allow creativity to flow. Living with Purpose: Why putting your soul in the driver’s seat leads to abundance and fulfillment. What you drinking? Galen pours a glass of Balvenie 14-Year Caribbean Cask, a smooth and flavorful scotch aged in rum barrels, perfectly complementing a conversation about bold choices and spiritual awakening. Meanwhile, Yolessa stays grounded with her signature warm water, a practice that reflects her mindful and intentional approach to life. Want more? For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself. Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!