McCoy Leadership

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Zoe Thompson—a 20-year police veteran turned coach and leadership expert. Zoe shared how resilience, self-awareness, and prioritization fueled her journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship. We discussed the power of aligning success with your core values, why tenacity needs balance, and how even high achievers must adapt their toolkit to grow. Plus, Zoe walked us through her PIPS framework for achieving sustainable, meaningful progress. If you’re feeling stuck or ready to level up your leadership, this episode is packed with takeaways to help you reach your potential.
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00:00 From Police Leader to Business Coach
04:53 "Balancing Tenacity in Leadership"
08:56 Priorities Shift Constantly
10:01 Critical Thinking: Leadership and Adaptability
14:44 Evolving Skills for New Success
19:06 Bridging Leadership Skill Gaps
22:58 Empowering Through Self-Discovery
27:18 "Intent, Identity & Leadership Habits"
28:24 Customizing Leadership for Individual Needs
33:41 Retirement Planning: Exploring True Desires
35:54 Shifting Mindsets from Stuck to Free
40:22 School Curriculum Enhancement Advice
43:52 Tech Nostalgia: Love-Hate Relationship
46:12 "Stay Connected and Informed"
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Zoey's Website
LinkedIn
 
Book Recommendations
Mindset
The Chimp Paradox
The Coaching Habit
Dare to Lead

On today’s McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Robert J. Hunt, the "Accountability Dude" and co-author of "Nobody Cares Until You Do." We dove deep into the difference between accountability and responsibility, explored how true accountability transforms teams, and learned why proactive leadership is a game-changer for business owners. Robert shared practical strategies to create a culture where people thrive, not just survive—plus, why refilling your tank is crucial for sustainable success. If you’re ready to level up your leadership and build a team that truly cares, you don’t want to miss this episode!
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 Beyond Job Responsibility: True Accountability
04:09 Defeated Mindset in Job Hiring
06:56 Proactive Accountability in Hiring
11:42 Finding Significance in Work
14:38 Optimizing Job Descriptions
17:20 Promote Cross-Training for Vacations
21:46 Balancing Work, Life, and Stress
23:44 Prioritizing Relationships Over Distractions
26:29 Christian Leaders vs Non-Christian Leaders
32:00 Sabbath: Rest, Connection, and Restoration
34:47 "Satisfaction Check and Self-Discovery"
38:53 "Handling a Raise Ultimatum"
40:56 Proactive Financial Education for Employees
44:03 Enhancing Education for Future Leaders
47:25 Using AI for Client Research
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Robert's Website
LinkedIn
youtube
book
 
Book Recommendations
Experiencing God
Dare to Serve Leadership
Margin
 
 
 

Ever wondered how high achievers can look successful but still feel like they're falling apart inside? On today’s McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Tricia Parido, a visionary speaker and emotional strategist. We dove deep into emotional exhaustion, why being in control isn't the answer, and how important it is to master your own emotional agility. Whether you’re running a business or juggling life at home, Tricia shares powerful tips to help you stop reacting and start leading your life with intention. If you want to thrive, not just survive, you won’t want to miss this episode!
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00:00 "Perfectionism and Control Journey"
05:48 Seeking External Solace
07:38 Coping with Emotional Exhaustion
12:58 Intentional Living: Choosing Your Day
15:01 "Tailored Self-Help Application"
17:41 Effective Business Coaching Strategies
23:04 Knowledge vs. Wisdom: Living Experience
25:20 Emotional Agility in Business
27:07 "Hasty Hiring Analogy"
31:33 Signs of Parental Burnout
33:50 "Digital Interaction vs. Real Connection"
38:04 "Podcast Pitch and Rapid Questions"
42:31 "AI Device Enhances Meeting Recall"
44:40 "Podcast Thanks and Farewell"
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Top three takeaways from the episode:
🔹 Emotional Mastery Drives Sustainable Success:High-achievers can appear outwardly successful while struggling internally. Tricia highlights that understanding and managing our emotions is essential—not just “coping” with stress, but proactively mastering it. It's not about suppressing negative feelings, but being able to sit with them, learn, and move forward.
🔹 Self-Awareness & Tailored Strategies Matter:There is no “one size fits all” solution to emotional health. Effective strategies must be personalized, taking into account how each individual processes emotions, stress, and communication. As Tricia points out, applying the right psychological tactics in a way that fits your unique circumstances is key.
🔹 Emotional Intelligence Should Start Early:One of Tricia’s strongest recommendations? Teach emotional intelligence—real emotional regulation and self-awareness—in our schools. By learning how to manage stress, build impulse control, and foster internal validation, we empower the next generation for healthier leadership and happier lives.
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Tricia's Website
https://www.turningleavesrecovery.com/
Linkedin
Tricia book recommendation
https://a.co/d/dA5KSRj
 

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Andrew Almazan—a powerhouse in scaling businesses and building high-performance teams across hospitality, digital media, and craft brewing. We unpacked the leap from corporate stability to entrepreneurial risk, the importance of assembling the right team, and why connecting—not just communicating—is the key to true leadership impact. Plus, we dove into how bravery, integrity, and leveraging technology like AI all play a role in modern business growth. 
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 "From Media to Executive Coaching"
06:14 "Journey to VP of People Operations"
07:49 Career Shift Amid Economic Changes
12:26 Leading Through Diverse Strengths
16:02 Effective Execution of Initiatives
18:55 Communication vs. Connection in Leadership
21:43 Targeting Growth-Oriented Small Business Owners
27:13 Embracing AI: Overcoming Traditional Mindset
28:25 Lonely Leadership Journey
35:22 AI's Role in Content Creation
36:26 Embrace Hardship for Growth
39:48 "Maximize Strengths with Self Audit"
44:05 Advice for Future Leaders
46:21 Podcast Updates & Listener Alerts
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Here are 3 key takeaways that stand out for leaders and aspiring changemakers:
🔹 Scaling Sustainably Starts With PeopleAndrew emphasized that no matter your strategy, it’s the right team and their buy-in that ultimately drive results. Success requires melding analytics with creativity, and ensuring every team member is both seen and heard.
🔹 Bravery & Integrity Are Leadership CornerstonesStepping out on your own—or into the unknown—takes both courage and a strong moral compass. Andrew’s journey is a reminder that short-term discomfort can lead to long-term fulfillment. Betting on yourself, especially when the path is uncertain, is often the bravest (and most rewarding) move.
🔹 Tech is a Tool, Not a Replacement for ConnectionAI and digital tools are changing the landscape, but Andrew stresses the importance of marrying innovation with human-centered leadership. Use technology to streamline operations, but never at the expense of authentic connection and integrity.
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Andrew's website
LinkedIn
Instagram
 
Book Recommendations
Be Excellent at Anything
Fierce Conversations

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Marcylle Combs—a powerhouse leader with over 30 years in healthcare and a true champion for people-first leadership. Marcylle shared her unconventional journey from nursing to building and selling multimillion-dollar businesses, the importance of leading with trust, and why hiring people you genuinely like is key to team success. We also dove into how mission work overseas transformed her approach to leadership and why staying true to your values matters most—especially in tough times. If you want actionable tips on thriving as a leader while keeping humanity at the core of your business, this conversation is for you.
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 "Nurse Turned Entrepreneurial Mission"
06:03 Navigating Work and Unexpected Bonds
09:09 "Firing as an Act of Friendship"
11:39 Mixer Incident: Occupational Health Surprise
15:04 Joyful and Confidential Workplace
19:43 Creating Employee Safe Spaces
22:24 Nonprofit Empowerment for Women Workers
26:28 Volunteer Healthcare Missions: A Humbling Experience
30:36 Mission Trips: Challenges and Changes
33:28 Core Values in Decision-Making
35:06 "Values-Driven Decision Making"
40:59 Leadership Expert Advice for Schools
43:53 Employee's Clever Sick Day Excuse
45:26 "Books on Heart and Endings"
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Three key takeaways that every leader (or aspiring leader) should consider:
Hire for character and fit, not just skills: Marcel’s mantra is to “hire people you actually like.” Build teams where diverse personalities complement one another, but always hire people you’d want to spend time with.
Anchor every decision to clear values: When faced with tough choices—especially the hardest ones, like layoffs—Marcel advises going back to your organization’s core values. These should be simple, memorable, and actionable for every team member.
Invest in your people beyond the workplace: From matching PTO for mission trips to fostering emotional support (especially in healthcare settings), empowering your employees to contribute and heal creates lasting loyalty and engagement.
If you haven’t already, check out her new book and give the episode a listen for even more practical leadership advice.
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Marcylle's Website
LinkedIn
MAC Legacy
Book Recommendations
Developing the Leader Within You
Anatomy of Peace
Necessary Endings
 

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Kevin Gazzara, CEO of Magna Leadership Solutions, to explore what it really takes to grow as a leader—no matter your background. We talked about practical strategies for making training actually stick, how to develop teams in both big corporations and scrappy startups, and why everyone can, and should, lead from any position. If you're ready for actionable advice to elevate your impact and foster real organizational growth, don’t miss this episode!
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 From Intel to Leadership Consulting
06:44 ADAM Model: Real-Time Application
08:16 Maximize Seminar Success
12:38 The Timeless Value of Apprenticeship
15:26 Talent vs. Skill in Leadership
17:31 "Intel Manager's Unique Onboarding Approach"
20:37 Mentorship Drives Career Success
26:58 "Importance of One-on-Ones and Retention"
28:31 "ROI of Investing in Employees"
33:31 Big vs. Small Company Opportunities
34:43 "Redeployment and Employee Growth Strategy"
40:08 "Advice for School Administrators"
42:25 Positive Intelligence iPhone App
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Here are my top 3 takeaways:
🔹 Training Alone Isn’t Enough: Dr. Gazzara highlighted that real learning happens when you apply concepts to solve an immediate, real-world problem—not just by sitting through a training. Come to every workshop or seminar with a specific objective in mind and a plan to measure your learning in action.
🔹 Leadership is for Everyone: Regardless of your job title, leadership starts day one. Dr. Gazzera encouraged leaders to empower their teams to ‘wear the leadership hat’ from the beginning, looking for ways to grow and take initiative.
🔹 Invest in People, Not Just Performance: Separating one-on-one meetings into performance and development sessions can be a game-changer. This creates space for employees to discuss personal and professional growth—not just the metrics. It increases engagement, discretionary effort, and retention.
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Kevin's Website
LinkedIn
Kevin's Book, The Leader of Oz
Book Recommendation
Flow

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, we dove into the power of improv with Andrew Davies. We explored how improvisational comedy isn’t just for extroverts—it’s a tool anyone can use to spark creativity, build stronger teams, and become a better leader. Andrew shared practical ways to energize meetings, why intentional play drives connection, and how modeling participation from the top transforms company culture. If you’re looking to break out of the burnout cycle, boost retention, or simply make work more meaningful, this episode’s for you. Let’s lead with more creativity, courage, and collaboration!
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 "The Power of Improvisational Comedy"
04:30 Overcoming Fear of New Experiences
09:14 Embracing Play and Low-Stakes Failure
12:29 Leadership Through Improv Workshops
15:19 Rethinking Time: Beyond Money Trade
18:01 "Listening Skills in Improvisation"
23:26 Intentional Team Dynamics in Meetings
26:10 "Improv Games for Creative Meetings"
29:45 Starting Meetings on a Positive Note
32:16 "Participation in Virtual Meetings"
36:25 Focus on Positivity, Not Problems
39:39 Jewish Values Through Improv Comedy
43:34 Enhancing Employee Retention and Growth
47:40 Onboarding Through Value-Based Games
50:37 Advice for Educational Leaders
53:11 Google Docs: Collaborative Game-Changer
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Here are three powerful takeaways for your leadership toolkit:
➡️ Improv isn’t just for extroverts or comedians. It’s about listening—in fact, introverts often excel because they pick up on details and really hear what’s being said. Great improv (and leadership!) starts with deep listening.
➡️ Meetings should be energizing, not draining. Andrew shared the ABCs of better meetings:
Affective (how do you want people to feel?)
Behavioral (how do you want them to act?)
Cognitive (what should they know or take away?)
 
A touch of intentional play or a quick improv game can dramatically shift energy and engagement.
➡️ Model the behavior you want to see. Whether you’re a CEO joining team-building exercises or a parent showing kindness, leadership is about actions, not just words. If you want your team to grow and participate, jump in and play alongside them.
There’s so much potential when we make room for courage, creativity, and connection at work. If you want inspiration for your next team meeting or retreat, give this episode a listen!
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
Andrew's Website
LinkedIn
Book Recommendation
The Art of Gathering
 
 
 

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with John Knowlton to dive deep on leadership, faith, and the power of intentional thinking. We explored how your mindset shapes your outcomes, the importance of personal mission, and how values guide every decision — both in business and in life. John shared inspiring stories from his journey, including lessons from the prison chaplaincy and the business world, and practical tips to help you lead with purpose, serve others, and create abundance. If you’re ready to elevate your leadership impact and align your daily actions with your greater calling, this episode is a must-listen!
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Download your free episode guide here!
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00:00 Multi-Hat Life: Pastor to Financial Planner
04:36 "Aligning Goals with Mission"
09:25 Facing Fearful Decisions
12:42 Selfish Choices in Troubled Lives
17:01 "Redirect Negative Thoughts"
18:35 Objectifying People: A Coffee Shop Reflection
22:20 Genesis Origins: Purposeful Stewardship
25:31 Finding Life Purpose: Simple or Grand?
28:13 Finding Purpose Through Faith
33:40 From Incarceration to Entrepreneurial Mentor
37:33 "Christian Business Leadership Challenges"
39:35 Stewardship Through Business Principles
43:33 Experiment with Generosity
47:45 "Start Mornings Mindfully"
50:08 "Comical Morning Routine Insight"
55:44 Email's Impact: A 30-Year Reflection
56:34 Digital Search Revolutionizes Interaction
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Here are my three biggest takeaways:
🔹 Clarity of Mission Is EverythingWhether you’re guiding a business, a team, or your own career path, John emphasized the power of a clear personal mission, vision, and values to navigate tough choices and stay aligned—even when business and personal goals collide.
🔹 Abundance Comes from GivingJohn’s prison chaplain experience highlighted that mindsets focused on serving and contributing to others—not “taking”—create the conditions for real abundance in life and business. Generosity isn’t just good, it’s practical leadership strategy.
🔹 Growth Is a Journey, Not a DestinationFinding your true purpose isn’t handed to you at graduation—it’s a process, discovered along the way. Pay attention to what energizes you, and don’t be afraid to test, reflect, and refine your path over time.
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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
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Links
John's Website
LinkedIn
John's new book