Dr. Mitchell Levy Presents

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesIn a world where perception often overshadows truth, the art of authenticity becomes both a challenge and a necessity. Fred Lee, an award-winning magician, hypnotist, and “meta thinking” expert, blends entertainment with education to help people understand how their minds shape reality. Through a background in psychology, military service, and stage performance, Fred shows that critical thinking, integrity, and curiosity can unlock limitless possibilities—not through illusion, but through clarity of thought.At a time when we’re overwhelmed by information, distraction, and social influence, Fred reminds us that learning how to think about our thinking may be the most powerful skill of all.SummaryFred Lee is a former U.S. Army officer turned magician, hypnotist, and speaker who specializes in “meta thinking,” a practical approach derived from the concept of metacognition—thinking about thinking. Drawing from his experience in psychological operations, stage magic, and leadership, Fred helps audiences challenge assumptions, improve decision-making, and broaden their perspectives.In this episode, he talks with Mitchell Levy about authenticity, integrity, and the importance of developing awareness in both personal and professional life. He discusses how magic taught him to value transparency and honesty, why the “mind-body connection” is real, and how authority bias shapes behavior. Fred’s approach bridges psychology, performance, and philosophy, offering a unique path to self-awareness and growth.Quotes“I like to be simple and direct. The biggest thing I’ve noticed with magic is that when people rely on effects or tricks, it kills the authenticity. I’d rather show people the real art behind it.”“Meta thinking takes the blinders off your face—it helps you see the bigger picture and create win-win scenarios in life and work.”“Integrity and authenticity go hand in hand. I don’t need to rely on tricks or illusions to connect with people. What I deliver is honest and real.”“The mind-body connection isn’t just a hippie concept. Pain is subjective, and your brain can change how you experience reality.”“Good men do exist. Consent, respect, and doing the right thing matter—in life and in business.”TakeawaysAuthenticity builds credibility. In any field—magic, leadership, or business—authenticity earns trust. When you deliver exactly what you promise, people remember the experience, not the illusion.Meta thinking is a tool for clarity. It’s about stepping back from your situation to see the bigger picture, helping you identify habits, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.Pain and focus are mental phenomena. The brain can amplify or reduce discomfort depending on mindset. Awareness of this connection can improve both performance and well-being.Integrity prevents “gray areas.” Fred avoids questionable situations in both entertainment and business by always prioritizing respect, transparency, and consent.Authority bias controls more than we think. People often obey perceived authority figures without self-reflection. Fred encourages detaching ego from external influence and trusting your own reasoning.Coachability comes from curiosity. Staying teachable, willing to learn, and open to new ideas leads to growth. Every experience is a potential lesson if you approach it with curiosity.Timeline[00:00] Introduction – Fred Lee, meta thinking expert, magician, and former army officer[00:04] How the pandemic impacted his business and the move from live to virtual shows[00:06] The importance of authenticity and integrity in magic and business[00:08] Defining meta thinking – “taking the blinders off” and seeing the bigger picture[00:10] How meta thinking improves problem-solving and daily decision-making[00:25] How curiosity and willingness to learn make a person truly coachable[00:28] Authority bias – why people follow authority without question[00:30] Final thoughts – focusing inward, detaching from ego, and thinking criticallyConclusionFred Lee shows that true mastery of the mind begins with awareness. Whether on stage performing illusions or teaching cognitive techniques, his mission is to empower people to see beyond surface appearances. Through meta thinking, we can better understand how we learn, react, and grow—and by pairing that with integrity and curiosity, we can live with greater authenticity.In a world full of distraction and misinformation, Fred reminds us that thinking clearly and acting truthfully are not just intellectual skills—they’re acts of courage.Links / ResourcesWebsite: https://fredleemind.comInstagram:   / fredleemind  YouTube:    / @fredleemind  Credibility NationWebsite: https://MitchellLevy.comLinkedIn:   / mitchelllevy  YouTube:    / @credibilitynation  Facebook:   / credibilitynation  Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesIn a time when leadership is often reduced to tactics and trends, Dr. Alise Cortez reminds us that real leadership starts with humanity. A lifelong learner, organizational psychologist, and founder of Gusto Now, Alise helps leaders and organizations activate meaning, purpose, and compassion at work. Her philosophy is simple but radical—when people are seen, valued, and inspired, they show up with gusto. In this conversation with host Mitchell Levy, Alise explores what it means to lead with heart, the balance between compassion and discernment, and how tango and leadership share more in common than most think..Summary:In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, Mitchell Levy sits down with Dr. Alise Cortez to discuss the evolution of compassionate leadership in an AI-driven world. Alise shares lessons from her global life experiences, the creation of Gusto Now Academy, and how “living with gusto” means bringing humanity back into business. They unpack the dual forces of compassion and discernment, the tension between control and trust, and the personal revelations that shaped her as a leader and teacher.Quotes: “Work is noble. It’s how we move through the world.” – Dr. Alise Cortez “Compassion is grace in action—it’s choosing to see people fully, even when it’s hard.” – Dr. Alise Cortez “We’re doubling down on humanity while working alongside technology.” – Dr. Alise CortezTakeaways:Compassion and discernment are essential twin virtues of modern leadership.Leaders must evolve from command and control to curiosity and care.Purpose, mission, and values must be lived, not laminated.True leadership means knowing when to step aside and let others lead.Bringing humanity to work is not sentimental—it’s strategic. Timestamp:[00:00] Mitchell welcomes Dr. Alise Cortez [01:00] Alise shares her background as a lifelong learner and her “dancing with life” philosophy. [03:00] 2025 lessons: shifting from noise to delivering real value. [06:00] Discovering and understanding neurodiversity in herself and others. [10:00] Compassion’s role in leadership and cultural change. [14:00] Tango as a metaphor for balance, trust, and flow. [17:00] Building “gusto” cultures where purpose drives productivity. [21:00] Handling organizations that seek change but resist alignment. [24:00] Humanity and technology: leaders as organizational cardiologists. [27:00] Meaning, purpose, and Alise’s continued devotion to her mission.Conclusion:Dr. Elise Cortez reminds leaders that meaning and compassion are not luxuries—they’re the core of sustainable success. Through her philosophy of “living with gusto,” she challenges leaders to transform workplaces into communities of purpose, growth, and care. Leadership, she insists, begins and ends with humanity.  Links/Resources: Website: https://gusto-now.com Speaking Site: https://elisecortez.com LinkedIn:   / elisecortez   Learn more about Mitchell Levy: https://MitchellLevy.com Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-usIf you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Credibility Nation:Website: https://MitchellLevy.comLinkedIn:   / mitchelllevy  YouTube:    / @credibilitynation  Facebook:   / credibilitynation  Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesFinancial success, business wins, or big titles aren’t what drive Eric Stopper; for him, devotion is the central theme—being fully present, aligning values, and mastering the things that matter most. A jiu-jitsu coach, podcaster, father, blacksmith, and entrepreneur, Eric has walked a winding path of self-discovery since 2019—one that’s taken him through existential questions, spiritual transformation, and even Ayahuasca ceremonies. Today, he shares how devotion fuels his life: from building a “billion-dollar” relationship with his kids, to teaching young athletes resilience on the mat, to shaping businesses built on integrity and service, while also opening up about leaving the Mormon church, choosing his values with intention, and embracing the beautiful chaos of fatherhood and entrepreneurship.Summary:Eric Stopper is a business owner, podcaster, jiu-jitsu coach, and father of two who defines himself less by titles and more by devotion. After a profound spiritual and existential journey, he distilled his core values into five guiding principles—wisdom, presence, integrity, gratitude, and self-mastery—and in this episode he shares how those values shape everything from his approach to business partnerships to parenting two young boys, including one with a traumatic brain injury. Eric discusses how teaching martial arts fuels his passion for encouraging others, how losing can be more instructive than winning, and why he believes devotion—not hustle—is the key to living fully.Quotes:“Your devotion to something is a practice of being 100% present with it, eliminating distractions from your life.”“When I’m devoted to something, I feel a deep and profound sense of gratitude for it.“I’m trying to build a billion-dollar relationship with my kids.”“If you’re always winning, you’re not really developing. The character development begins when you lose.”“Don’t partner with your friends. Partner with someone you can argue with effectively and still move forward.” Takeaways:Define your values intentionally – Eric used a “single-elimination” process to distill his values, ending with wisdom, presence, integrity, gratitude, and self-mastery.Devotion fuels everything – Whether it’s family, business, or hobbies, immerse yourself fully, practice presence, and eliminate distractions.Resilience comes from loss – Teach yourself and others to handle setbacks with grace; it’s where character crystallizes.Partnerships thrive on healthy conflict – Find business partners who complement your strengths and can argue productively.Fatherhood shapes leadership – Building intentional relationships with your children refines patience, presence, and self-mastery. Timeline:[00:21] Eric Stopper's Journey of Self-Discovery[00:32] Values and Devotion  [08:12] Parenting and Personal Growth[09:47] Military Influence and Personal Style[21:18] Entrepreneurial Journey and Business Challenges[27:58] Exploring Metaphysical Questions Conclusion:Eric Stopper’s journey is a testament to the power of living by your values and leading with devotion. His story reminds us that fulfillment isn’t found in titles or achievements but in presence, service, and the impact we have on others. By aligning our actions with our deepest principles, embracing challenges as lessons, and showing up fully for the people and work that matter most, we can create a life of true mastery—one built not on hustle, but on intention and purpose. Links/Resources:Website: https://davinsalvagno.com/LinkedIn:   / salvagno    Instagram:   / davinsalvagno  Thieves of Purpose: Overcoming the 12 Mindsets Robbing You of Your Potential: https://www.amazon.com/Thieves-Purpos...  Finding Purpose at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Purpos...If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!Credibility Nation:Website: https://MitchellLevy.comLinkedIn:   / mitchelllevy    YouTube:    / @credibilitynation  Facebook:   / credibilitynation    Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesAntonio Garrido is the author of My Daily Leadership: A Powerful Roadmap for Leadership Success, and Founder & President of My Daily Leadership, a leadership development organization with a mission to inspire one million of the world’s best leaders to reach their full potential.Antonio has over twenty-five years in senior leadership positions withworld-class businesses.He is an expert in leadership transformation: shaping high-performance leaders out of highly-stressed and overworked leaders. Antonio blends his own vast commercial experience with proven techniques to embed a unique brand of leadership development. He is a serial entrepreneur, successful business coach, charismatic speaker, and leader from small private businesses, right up to Fortune-60 size. If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesLiz Kislik is a management consultant and executive coach, and a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review and Forbes. Her TEDx “Why There’s So Much Conflict at Work and What You Can Do to Fix It” has received more than half a million views. She specializes in developing high performing leaders and workforces, and for 30 years has helped family-run businesses, national nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies like American Express, Girl Scouts, Staples, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Highlights for Children solve their thorniest problems. If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

 Leaders LIVING Their ValuesWhat does it take to lead with authenticity when life throws challenges your way? How do you stay grounded in values while navigating family, leadership, and service at the highest levels?  SummaryIn this episode, host Mitchell Levy sits down with Bob Fabian “BZ” Zinga, a US Navy Commander, husband, father, and servant leader. BZ shares how faith, family, and service shape his life and leadership, and why he believes in elevating others through mentorship, education, and values-driven living. With decades of experience spanning the Navy, Silicon Valley, and leadership development, BZ brings a unique perspective on resilience, servant leadership, and purpose.Quotes“If you give me one year of your life in a mastermind, your life will be completely different a year from now.” “Education is something nobody can ever take away from you. Once you learn it, it’s yours for life.” “Leadership is about synergy. You cannot do much with just yourself if you want to do great things.”TakeawaysDefine your identity through values, not circumstances. Use “the other eight hours” for intentional growth in skills and leadership. Treat internal colleagues as customers and serve them with purpose. Support your children in finding their unique calling rather than imposing your expectations.TimelineBob Fabian Zinger's Introduction and Personal Values (0:03) Balancing Family and Professional Life (3:26) Developing Leadership and Personal Growth (4:01) Bob's Expertise and Areas of Focus (9:43) Navigating Generational Differences (19:56) Bob's Role as an Information Warfare Commanding Officer (20:43) Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations (27:38)Links MentionedConnect with Bob Fabian Zinga on LinkedIn: [Bob Fabian Zinga](https://www.linkedin.com)ConclusionThis conversation with Bob Fabian Zinga shows how values, faith, and servant leadership can shape every area of life. From raising children with empathy to leading in the Navy and corporate world, BZ demonstrates that true success is about impact, not titles or money. His story is a reminder to stay grounded in purpose, invest in continuous learning, and serve others in every role you hold. If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Max is a management consultant turned entrepreneur who brings mindfulness and humanity back into the workplace through offsites and retreats. If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

 Leaders LIVING Their ValuesImmigration is one of the most life-changing journeys a person can face, filled with stress, uncertainty, and hope. For many, the process feels overwhelming, with rules and requirements that can shape or shatter their future. Behind every form and legal step is a human story, a family trying to stay together, a professional pursuing opportunity, or someone seeking safety and freedom. It’s not just law, it’s life. And at the heart of this process are lawyers like Sergio Athanaso, who bring not only expertise but compassion, patience, and credibility to guide clients through. Real leadership in law isn’t about winning cases, it’s about serving people, even when the path is difficult.Summary:In this episode of Leaders Living Their Values, host Mitchell Levy speaks with Sergio Athanaso, an immigration lawyer who has built his career on integrity, empathy, and servant leadership. Sergio shares why he chose immigration law, what drives him to keep serving clients even in challenging situations, and how he balances boundaries with compassion. He discusses the emotional highs of helping clients achieve life-changing victories, as well as the struggles of working with those who resist guidance. Sergio’s story highlights how credibility, humility, and authentic care shape trust in one of the most critical areas of law.Quotes:“I don’t just like what I do—I love what I do.” – Sergio Athanaso“Immigration is about people. It’s about serving them in one of the most important moments of their lives.” – Sergio Athanaso“The definition of credibility is the quality in which you’re trusted, known, and liked.” – Mitchell Levy“When your work becomes play, that’s when you know you’re living your purpose.” – Mitchell LevyTakeaways:Redefine Work as Play: When passion meets service, work becomes joyful and fulfilling instead of draining.Choose Clients Wisely: Boundaries and fit matter as much as compassion; not every client is the right client.Credibility Builds Trust: Being trusted, known, and liked is the foundation of success in immigration law and leadership.Technology vs. Humanity: AI may streamline processes, but empathy and human connection remain irreplaceable in law.Timeline:[00:00] Mitchell introduces Sergio with humor and curiosity, setting the stage for a values-driven conversation. [02:00] “Who are you?” – Sergio describes his energy, positivity, and how people enjoy being around him. [04:00] Loving the work: Sergio reflects on how law, once an obligation, became a passion. [06:30] Why immigration law? The importance of serving people and changing lives. [08:00] A client success story that brought deep fulfillment and lasting impact. [11:45] When things don’t go as planned—clients who resist advice and lessons learned. [15:00] Boundaries and fit: How Sergio balances compassion with discernment. [18:30] Work and play: Mitchell reframes Sergio’s “overworking” as passion-driven play. [21:00] Credibility in law: trust, being known, and being liked as the keys to client success. [25:00] Long-term goals and the evolving role of AI in legal practice. [29:46] Final reflections: credibility, humility, and showing up authentically in service of others.  Conclusion:Immigration law is about more than paperwork—it’s about people, families, and futures. Sergio Athanaso’s journey shows that true credibility in law comes from compassion, servant leadership, and living one’s values. By reframing work as play and focusing on trust, authenticity, and integrity, he demonstrates how leaders can create long-term impact in one of the most human-centered areas of law. Links/Resources:Email Sergio: [email protected] more about Mitchell Levy: https://MitchellLevy.comBook time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us Credibility Nation:Website: https://MitchellLevy.comLinkedIn:   / mitchelllevy  YouTube:    / @credibilitynation  Facebook:   / credibilitynation  Community: https://aha.pub/SuperheroesAsk If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

  Leaders LIVING Their ValuesJeremy is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and former global marketing & communications executive. Over the past two decades Jeremy has founded and led 8 of his companies to successful exits. Jeremy is currently the Founder & CEO of Payment Brokers, a fintech company, focused on AI-enabled cost reductions. If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes

Leaders LIVING Their ValuesIn this new episode, blue-collar entrepreneur Ken Rusk shares his remarkable journey from digging ditches to building a successful construction company with over 200 employees. Ken discusses his unique approach to business, leadership, and personal development, emphasizing the power of vision, goal-setting, and empowering employees to achieve their dreams.Summary:We discuss Ken's philosophy of helping employees create clear, actionable life goals beyond just earning a paycheck. Key topics include breaking the stigma around blue-collar work, the importance of moving from a "someday" mindset to a "two-day" approach, and creating a workplace culture that prioritizes individual growth. You will gain insights into effective leadership, personal motivation, and strategies for setting and achieving meaningful goals. Ken's approach focuses on understanding employees' full potential, helping them visualize their future, and creating a supportive environment where personal and professional success can flourish. His methods demonstrate how businesses can thrive by investing in their employees' holistic development and aspirations.Quotes:"I can't get what I want for myself, nor can my company get what it wants or needs until everyone within it gets what they want first.""Life is either going to happen to you or you're going to choose to happen to life.""Without a path, all you've got is dreams, hopes, and wishes. If you use the word someday in this building, people cringe."Key Takeaways:Empower Employees: Focus on helping employees achieve their personal goals, which in turn drives company success. When employees' goals align with company goals, extraordinary growth can happen.Vision is Critical: Encourage people to look beyond immediate needs and develop long-term vision. Help them create specific, actionable paths to their goals.Blue-Collar Success: Challenge the stigma against blue-collar workers. Many skilled trades professionals can build highly successful businesses and careers.Proactive vs. Reactive Mindset: Move from a "someday" mentality to a "two-day" approach - taking immediate action towards goals instead of just dreaming.Holistic Employee Approach: Look at employees as whole people, not just workers. Understand their personal aspirations, motivations, and life goals.Timeline:[0:29] Ken Rusk's Journey and Philosophy[4:48] The Role of Vision and Coaching[11:40] The Power of Visualization and Goal Setting[15:45] Creating a Proactive Work Environment[24:50] The Two-Day Club vs. the Someday Club[27:37] Creating a Motivated and Productive WorkforceConclusion:Ken Rusk's journey as a blue-collar entrepreneur reveals a powerful philosophy of personal and professional growth centered on vision, empowerment, and goal-setting. By challenging the stigma against blue-collar workers and creating a workplace culture that prioritizes individual aspirations, Rusk has built a successful construction company with over 200 employees who are motivated to achieve their dreams. His approach of helping employees visualize their future, create specific pathways to their goals, and feel in control of their lives has not only driven company success but also transformed how people think about work and personal development. Rusk's message is clear: by shifting from a "someday" mindset to a "two-day" action-oriented approach, individuals can break free from reactive living and create the life they truly want, one goal at a time.Links/Resources:Website:https://www.kenrusk.com/Facebook:   / kenruskofficial  Twitter: https://x.com/KenRuskOfficialInstagram:   / kenruskofficial  LinkedIn:   / ken-rusk-2656a7175  TikTok:   / kenrusk.official  YouTube:    / @kenruskcpf  If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!Credibility Nation:Website:https://MitchellLevy.comLinkedIn:   / mitchelllevy  YouTube:    / @credibilitynation  Facebook:   / credibilitynation  Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes If you like what you're hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today! Website: https://mitchelllevy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchelllevy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CredibilityNation Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes