In this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with Todd Hagopian, Executive Director of the Stagnation Intelligence Agency and author of The Unfair Advantage: Weaponizing the Hypomanic Toolbox. Todd shares his remarkable journey—from spending 15 years undiagnosed with bipolar disorder to engineering a systematic way to harness the productive power of hypomania without the chaos. This conversation explores how neurodiverse traits can be transformed into high-performance leadership tools, offering powerful strategies for productivity, innovation, prioritization, and sustainable success.

Todd Hagopian explains how the high energy, creativity, and intensity associated with hypomania can be intentionally structured into repeatable systems. Instead of treating hypomanic tendencies as weaknesses, he shows how leaders can channel them into strengths through tools such as grandiose goal-setting, which pushes individuals and teams to stretch beyond conventional limits. He emphasizes that ambition—when properly focused—creates momentum, inspires others, and unlocks levels of performance that incremental planning simply cannot achieve.

Another major insight Todd shares is the 80/20 Matrix, a ruthless prioritization method that identifies the 4% of activities generating 64% of results. By doubling down on the most profitable customer-product combinations and eliminating or outsourcing low-value work, leaders remove complexity—the biggest enemy of profitability. This same philosophy underpins the Carolyn Method, where results are amplified not through more activity, but through sharper focus on the vital few actions that truly move the needle.

Todd also discusses orthodoxy smashing, the practice of systematically challenging industry assumptions to uncover breakthrough opportunities. Paired with essential personal practices such as sleep discipline, medication management (when relevant), and eliminating alcohol, Todd shows that sustainable leadership requires both innovation and self-care. His message is clear: anyone—neurodiverse or not—can apply these systems to multiply productivity, improve decision-making, and build resilient success.

Todd Hagopian is the Executive Director of the Stagnation Intelligence Agency, a leadership strategist, and the author of The Unfair Advantage: Weaponizing the Hypomanic Toolbox. He helps leaders harness structured productivity systems to maximize performance, prioritize effectively, and innovate with intention. Connect with Todd on LinkedIn or explore his work at Stagnation Assassin.

Stagnation Assassin (toddhagopian.com) provides leadership development frameworks based on Todd’s hypomanic toolbox methodology. Through consulting, training, and productivity systems, Todd helps organizations simplify operations, enhance strategic focus, and unlock breakthrough innovation. His programs support neurodiverse and neurotypical leaders alike in building sustainable, high-performance habits.

• Todd Hagopian LinkedIn Profile
• Stagnation Assassin

In this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with Charlie Curson, strategist, leadership coach, author, and Founder & Director of Mandarin Associates. Their conversation explores the deeper meaning of strategic thinking—beyond planning—and reveals how leaders can elevate their impact through self-awareness, open-mindedness, creativity, and influence. This blog distills Charlie’s most valuable insights, showing professionals how to approach leadership with greater clarity, adaptability, and long-term strategic focus.

Charlie Curson explains that strategy is fundamentally different from planning—planning is about predictability and control, while strategy is about making courageous, future-focused choices. He emphasizes that real strategy begins with self-awareness, helping leaders understand their own biases, beliefs, and behaviors so they can make decisions from a place of clarity rather than fear or habit. Without this foundation, even the smartest plans fail to address the real levers that drive performance and growth within organizations.

Charlie also shares how open-mindedness and critical thinking shape effective strategy. Leaders must actively challenge assumptions, invite diverse perspectives, and create environments where constructive disagreement can surface the best ideas. Creativity plays an equally vital role—too often, “strategy” becomes a recycled version of last year’s plan, but true strategic thinking requires imagining new possibilities, exploring different futures, and generating innovative pathways to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Finally, Charlie highlights the importance of communication and influence in scaling the impact of strategy. Even the strongest strategic insights collapse without team alignment and buy-in. By co-creating strategy with their teams, communicating with clarity, and fostering open dialogue, leaders can translate ideas into action. He encourages leaders to embrace uncertainty, experiment early, and treat every new initiative as a learning opportunity—allowing strategy to evolve dynamically as the business landscape shifts.

Charlie Curson is a strategist, leadership coach, speaker, and author of Be More Strategic: 12 Essential Practices to Build the Life and Career You Want. He is the Founder and Director of Mandarin Associates, where he helps organizations develop strategic thinking capabilities, improve leadership effectiveness, and foster high-performing cultures. Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn.

Mandarin Associates provides strategic consulting, coaching, leadership development, and facilitation services for global organizations. Their work centers on helping teams think more strategically, improve communication, and create purposeful, aligned results across all levels of leadership.

• Charlie Curson on LinkedIn Profile
• Mandarin Associates Website

• Strategy is about choices, not control or comfort
• Self-awareness is the foundation of strategic leadership
• Open-mindedness and diverse perspectives improve decision-making
• Creativity enables leaders to imagine new futures and opportunities
• Communication and influence determine...

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Jaemin Frazer—Founder of The Insecurity Project, author of Unhindered, and host of the Unhindered Podcast. Jaemin shares why insecurity often peaks in midlife, how early childhood beliefs silently shape adult behavior, and what ambitious professionals can do to break free from self-doubt. His insights offer a practical and compassionate roadmap for anyone ready to confront insecurity and step into a more confident, purposeful version of themselves.

Jaemin explains that insecurity is universal, rooted in beliefs formed before age seven, and often goes unnoticed until midlife when energy diminishes and the “push through it” strategy stops working. In this season of life, many high achievers discover that the same insecurity that once fueled their ambition is now causing anxiety, exhaustion, strained relationships, and a sense of emotional unraveling. He emphasizes that insecurity is not a flaw, but a solvable problem—one that requires awareness, objectivity, and a structured process for dismantling limiting beliefs.

He describes insecurity as “rocket fuel”: powerful enough to drive early success, but ultimately toxic if relied on for too long. Through Jaemin’s seven-practice framework, individuals learn to deconstruct these beliefs, examine the stories they tell themselves, and replace insecurity-driven motivation with clarity and intrinsic purpose. This transformation allows midlifers to shift from proving themselves to actually becoming themselves—living with more peace, energy, and authenticity.

Jaemin also highlights the importance of vulnerability and finding the right support. Not all helpers are equipped to guide someone through insecurity, and he stresses the value of working with a coach or therapist who provides objectivity, structure, and accountability. He invites listeners to access his book Unhindered, his long-running podcast, and his one-on-one coaching programs to continue their journey toward becoming truly “unhindered.”

Jaemin Frazer is the Founder of The Insecurity Project, an internationally recognized coach, author, and speaker known for his expertise in helping high performers overcome insecurity. Through his book Unhindered, his 300+ episode podcast, and his structured coaching methodology, Jaemin guides individuals through deep personal transformation and lasting emotional freedom. Connect with him on LinkedIn: Jaemin Frazer

The Insecurity Project (jaeminfrazer.com) provides coaching, tools, and educational resources designed to help individuals overcome insecurity and live with greater confidence, purpose, and emotional clarity. Through books, podcasts, speaking engagements, and immersive coaching programs, Jaemin helps midlifers break free from long-standing limiting beliefs and step into their highest potential.

• Jaemin Frazer LinkedIn Profile
• The Insecurity Project Website

• Why insecurity is universal and rooted in early childhood
• How insecurity becomes more visible and disruptive in midlife
• The concept of insecurity as “rocket fuel” for high achievers
• Jaemin’s structured seven-practice framework for overcoming insecurity
• The importance of objectivity...

In this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews John Francis, Founder of Fathers Eve, to explore how a small garage gathering grew into a nationwide movement supporting dads through connection, camaraderie, and community. John shares how Fathers Eve began organically in Minnesota and has since expanded into a global celebration held the night before Father’s Day. He discusses the challenges many men face around social isolation and why intentional, judgment-free gatherings can have such a powerful impact on mental health, family life, and community strength.

John explains that many men lose touch with friendships as they get older, take on more responsibilities, or struggle to maintain social habits after the pandemic. Fathers Eve combats this by creating relaxed, pressure-free environments—ranging from backyard get-togethers to bar meetups to virtual countdown celebrations—where dads can show up as themselves without expectations. The simplicity is intentional: no speakers, no programming, just space for men to talk, laugh, share experiences, and realize they’re not alone in their challenges.

He also highlights the signature tradition that unites Fathers Eve events worldwide: the 8 p.m. local-time countdown toast, streamed across time zones, creating a shared moment of celebration and solidarity. Activities like cornhole, small trophies, and optional charity drives add fun, community impact, and meaningful purpose to gatherings. For hosts, Fathers Eve provides guidance, personal support from John, and the flexibility to design events that fit their community’s needs.

Finally, John emphasizes the broader ripple effect these events create—from forming new friendships to strengthening families to contributing to local charities through diaper drives and fundraising efforts. Fathers Eve's open, inclusive format allows dads to build deeper social bonds, improving mental well-being and fostering long-term connection. Whether attending or hosting, dads walk away feeling celebrated, supported, and part of something bigger.

John Francis is the Founder of Fathers Eve, a global movement focused on creating connection, support, and community for dads everywhere. Known as “Johnny Franchise,” John is also a consultant, speaker, and advocate for fatherhood, leadership, and community-building.

Fathers Eve (fatherseve.com) is a growing worldwide gathering held the night before Father’s Day, uniting dads in cities across the U.S. and around the world. Through local events, virtual celebrations, and charitable initiatives, Fathers Eve helps men build meaningful relationships and strengthen their communities.

• Fathers Eve Website
• John Francis LinkedIn Profile

• The accidental founding of Fathers Eve and its grassroots growth
• Why many men struggle with social connection—and how Fathers Eve addresses it
• The signature 8 p.m. countdown toast bringing dads together worldwide
• Tips for hosting successful Fathers Eve events of any size
• How charity involvement strengthens community impact
• The importance of simplicity, inclusivity, and authenticity in building male communities

John Francis shows that Fathers Eve is far more than a social gathering—it’s a movement designed to strengthen dads,...

In this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Jane Kubryak, venture capitalist and startup scout at Social Discovery Group, to explore the future of digital connection platforms, AI companions, and the shifting venture capital landscape. Jane shares her global journey from Russia to Montenegro, her role in scouting high-potential founders, and the unique market insights she’s gained working with one of the largest digital-connection companies in the world. Her perspective offers invaluable guidance for founders navigating today’s polarized funding environment and for investors looking to discover overlooked innovation.

Jane explains that today’s startup world is split between massively funded companies with elite networks and talented early-stage founders struggling for visibility. She emphasizes that traction—not hype—is what truly captures investor attention, and encourages founders to differentiate themselves through strategic storytelling, early user engagement, and clarity around the market problem they solve. For companies working in digital connection, AI companions, or mental health–focused tech, Jane notes that the strongest teams pair innovation with empathy, creating solutions that meet emotional as well as functional needs.

She also highlights that many founders underestimate the importance of community and consistent visibility. Because attention is the scarcest resource in modern venture building, Jane recommends actively nurturing relationships with scouts, VCs, and accelerators, while leveraging newsletters, podcasts, and LinkedIn to stay top of mind. With Social Discovery Group’s resources, she helps founders accelerate momentum once they demonstrate early traction, ensuring that promising teams don’t get lost in the noise of the funding landscape.

Finally, Jane encourages overlooked founders—especially those in Eastern Europe and emerging markets—to remain persistent despite systemic biases. She reminds listeners that SDG and other strategic investors actively seek founders who bring global perspectives, emotional intelligence, and long-term resilience. By focusing on authentic traction, crafting a compelling narrative, and leaning into ecosystems that champion under-the-radar founders, entrepreneurs can meaningfully improve their fundraising outcomes.

Jane Kubryak is a venture capitalist, startup scout, and ecosystem builder at Social Discovery Group, where she identifies and supports promising startups in digital connection, AI companions, and emerging social technologies. She also leads a growing founder-focused community through her writing and industry insights. Connect with Jane on LinkedIn.

Social Discovery Group is a global leader in digital connection platforms, AI-driven social technology, and online dating innovation. Through SDG Lab Venture Studio, the company invests in early-stage founders building the next generation of digital companionship, social engagement, and human-connection tools.

• Jane Kubryak on LinkedIn
• Social Discovery Group (SDG Lab Venture Studio) Website

• How AI companions are...

In this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Leyah Valgardson Hostetter—Founder and Principal Consultant of Leyah&Co. Leyah shares her unique perspective on why the construction industry struggles with consistency, communication, and client satisfaction, and how business owners can fix these problems by intentionally designing a standout client experience. Drawing from her decades of experience and her work coaching over 150 construction owners, Leyah explains how client experience, operational alignment, and team empowerment can transform chaotic businesses into smooth-running, referral-generating powerhouses.

Leyah explains that many construction companies suffer from predictable reputation challenges—missed deadlines, unclear communication, and constant firefighting—but these issues often stem from the lack of an intentionally designed client experience. She teaches business owners to first define how they want clients to feel at every stage of the project, and then build backward to create workflows, timelines, and touchpoints that support that experience. This shift not only creates consistency but also positions the company as a trustworthy, client-centered leader in a competitive landscape.

She also highlights that behind-the-scenes operations must match the promise made to clients. When team roles are unclear, workflows inconsistent, or processes change from project to project, chaos becomes inevitable. By mapping out every client touchpoint, identifying breakdowns, and establishing standardized systems, construction owners can drastically reduce overwhelm while improving efficiency and client satisfaction. Leyah’s Experience Blueprint workshop guides companies through this process by aligning client experience design with operational excellence.

Finally, Leyah discusses the emotional toll on owners who feel overworked, overwhelmed, and constantly “on call.” She emphasizes that sustainable success requires empowering teams, clarifying expectations, and building repeatable systems that free the owner from daily firefighting. With industry competition tightening for 2025–2026, she stresses that businesses that prioritize client experience, systematization, and operational clarity now will be the ones that thrive in the near future.

Leyah Valgardson Hostetter is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Leyah&Co., where she helps construction business owners transform their operations through intentional client experience design, workflow optimization, and team alignment. With more than two decades of experience and a proven track record working with over 150 construction leaders, Leyah is known for bringing clarity, structure, and strategy to complex business challenges.

Connect with Leyah on LinkedIn.

Leyah&Co. helps construction companies streamline their operations, elevate their client experience, clarify roles, and implement systems that reduce chaos and increase referrals. Through consulting, workshops, and team alignment strategies, the company helps construction leaders build operational excellence and long-term competitive advantage.

• Leyah Valgardson Hostetter on LinkedIn

In this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with John Murphy, founder of Venture Management Consultants, Inc. and author of more than 20 books including Miracle Minded Manager. Their conversation explores the intersection of nature, spirituality, process improvement, and the art of simplifying leadership in today’s complex business environment. This blog distills the most powerful ideas from their discussion, giving leaders actionable takeaways to elevate performance, mindset, and organizational culture.

John Murphy’s leadership philosophy is grounded in deep observation of nature and the role simplicity plays in high performance. He explains that nature operates without stress or overthinking—trees grow, rivers flow, and ecosystems adapt effortlessly—and leaders can benefit by mirroring this same natural alignment. When leaders learn to be fully present rather than pressured, they unlock clarity, creativity, and more intuitive decision-making that supports healthier teams and stronger business results.

Another major topic John explores is the power of Kaizen events—intensive improvement workshops that rapidly redesign business processes within days rather than months. These transformation sprints dismantle silos, build cross-functional collaboration, and demonstrate what’s possible when teams are given focus, data, and permission to fix what’s broken. The speed and sustainability of Kaizen outcomes often reignite organizational momentum and help leaders rediscover the power of disciplined simplicity.

John also emphasizes mindful leadership, teaching leaders to shift from resistance to acceptance when confronting uncertainty or change. Instead of reacting from fear, mindful leaders recognize what is, examine the root causes of problems, and respond with clarity. This is paired with his advocacy for the art of subtraction—removing unnecessary steps, roles, tools, or habits that drain energy. By simplifying rather than adding more complexity, organizations experience greater flow, higher productivity, and dramatically improved morale.

John Murphy is a renowned leadership consultant, speaker, and author with over 20 published books focused on business transformation, mindfulness, and high-performance leadership. His teachings combine spiritual principles, lean methodologies, and decades of executive coaching experience. Learn more about his work at johnjmurphy.org or connect with him on LinkedIn.

Founded by John Murphy, Venture Management Consultants specializes in business transformation, leadership development, and operational excellence. The firm supports organizations globally through Kaizen events, executive coaching, culture transformation initiatives, and high-performance training programs. Explore resources and offerings at johnjmurphy.org.

• John Murphy’s Website
• John Murphy on LinkedIn

• Nature teaches leaders the power of presence, alignment, and simplicity
• Kaizen events accelerate...

In this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Miriam Schulman, founder and CEO of Schulman Art and The Inspiration Place, to unpack the essential principles behind building a profitable and sustainable creative business. Miriam—also the author of the HarperCollins book Art, Inc.—shares her expertise on storytelling, branding, pricing, audience-building, and the mindset needed to overcome creative resistance. Her unique blend of artistic mastery and business strategy provides a powerful roadmap for any creator looking to turn passion into profit.

Miriam introduces the concept of myth-making—drawing inspiration from Greek mythology—as the foundation of compelling branding for creative entrepreneurs. She explains that just as ancient heroes hired bards to tell their stories, modern creatives must proactively shape and share their own narratives to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Storytelling isn’t self-indulgence; it’s strategy.

In the conversation, Miriam breaks down the five pillars of creative business success: production, pricing, prospecting, promotion, and productivity. She details how each pillar supports business growth and provides clear, actionable practices artists can incorporate immediately. From setting a consistent creation schedule to building an email list that actually converts, Miriam offers step-by-step advice grounded in her own business experience.

Finally, she addresses the mindset challenges that hold creatives back—especially fear of failure, perfectionism, and the myth of “selling out.” Miriam emphasizes that discomfort is part of the creative journey. The more talented a person is, the better they often become at talking themselves out of action. Her reminders to “show up even when it’s hard” and to treat creative work like a professional commitment resonate as core lessons for any business-minded artist.

Miriam Schulman is a creative entrepreneur, artist, and the founder of The Inspiration Place, where she teaches artists how to build thriving businesses through marketing systems, pricing strategies, and mindset tools. She is also the author of Art, Inc.—a HarperCollins guidebook for creative professionals—and host of the popular Inspiration Place Podcast. Connect with her on LinkedIn or explore her programs at SchulmanArt.com.

The Inspiration Place is Miriam’s educational platform dedicated to helping artists and creative entrepreneurs grow profitable, sustainable businesses. Through online courses, coaching, community support, and the Inspiration Place Podcast, artists learn practical skills for marketing, selling, pricing, and increasing their visibility. Learn more at SchulmanArt.com.

• Miriam Schulman’s LinkedIn Profile
• The Inspiration Place Website

• Why artists must become the “bard of their own story”
• The five pillars of creative business success
• How to price your work with confidence
• Why email marketing outperforms social...