Dr Adriane Johnson-Williams: Why Every Leader Needs a Brushstroke Strategy

What if the key to transformation isn't finding your "why" but discovering your "because"? Pastor Keion Henderson delivers this game-changing perspective in an unforgettable conversation that cuts straight to the core of authentic leadership and personal growth."I do it because I was born to," Pastor Keion reveals, sharing how this simple yet profound realization shaped his leadership journey. Unlike your "why" (your family, friends, community), your "because" is the divine purpose encoded in your very design—it's what you're built for, just as planes are built to fly and cars to drive. This distinction becomes a foundation for living with greater authenticity and confidence, even through doubt and struggle.The conversation takes a powerful turn when addressing the perfectionism that plagues so many high-achievers. Pastor Keion brilliantly articulates the battle between ego and effectiveness: "The ego says you would have been better if you said what you thought. Effective says you said what you said and it worked." This liberating perspective helps leaders trust that what emerges from a prepared soul is enough—preparation doesn't guarantee perfection, but it enables impact.Most revolutionary is Pastor Keion's insight that "problems can't be solved by the same mindset that created them"—a principle that host Mick credits with quadrupling his business. This philosophy, explored in Pastor Keyon's book "The Shift," challenges listeners to continually evolve their thinking, recognizing that what brought you to your current level won't take you to the next one. The conversation also previews his newest book "Lazy Love," which examines how our past experiences shape our capacity to love effectively.Whether you're looking to transform your business, improve your relationships, or discover your divine purpose, this episode provides practical wisdom for embracing imperfection, shifting mindsets, and recognizing that your greatest impact might come not just from your successes but from how you've navigated your failures. Your "because" is waiting to be unleashed—and it might just be your greatest superpower.Connect & Discover Pastor Keion: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pastorkeion/?hl=en Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/pastorkeion/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@KeionHendersonTV TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@iampastorkeion?lang=en                            Book:The Shift FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

What if every person on earth could reach their absolute potential? Dr. Adriane Johnson-Williams believes our collective power is diminished when systems block people from their best selves - and she's dedicated her life to changing that reality.The catalyst for her remarkable journey began at age 14 when she left South Memphis for boarding school, suddenly experiencing privileges her equally brilliant friends back home would never access. That stark contrast planted a seed that grew into her lifelong mission to eliminate barriers to human potential.This conversation goes beyond surface-level diversity talk to explore how real change happens. Dr. Johnson-Williams reveals her powerful filter for clients: "I'm not going to work with you if I don't believe you're ready to do the work." Her actionable framework for addressing inequity starts with getting clear on your vision, understanding why things are the way they are, and identifying your specific "brushstroke" contribution to larger systemic change.Perhaps most illuminating is her distinction between mentorship and sponsorship. While mentorship provides guidance and emotional support, Dr. Johnson-Williams credits her success to sponsors who "walked me up to the door, opened it, gone in on the other side, and said 'hey, this is my girl.'" This transfer of power - literally stamping others with your authority - creates pathways traditional mentorship cannot.Her approach to equity conversations begins with helping people interrogate their own identity and place within systems, creating space for honest reflection while maintaining everyone's dignity. Through profound insights on emotional intelligence, reflective practice, and authentic leadership, Dr. Johnson-Williams demonstrates why her one-word mission - "humanity" - resonates so powerfully across classrooms, boardrooms, and communities.Ready to make your contribution to unleashing human potential? Listen now and discover how your "because" becomes your superpower.Connect & Discover Dr Adriane:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drajw/                                         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/search/keyword/?q=dr%20adriane%20johnson-williams                                                          Website: https://standpointconsulting.com/about/dr-adriane-johnson-williams/FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

The journey from NFL superstar to Hollywood actor isn't one many can successfully navigate, but Vernon Davis makes it look effortless. This raw conversation with the Super Bowl champion reveals the mindset that's enabled him to excel across multiple fields."When I understood how important it was to be selfless and do things for the sake of the team, then I became a better not just a better player, but a better person overall because that shifted over to life," Vernon shares early in our discussion. This philosophy has guided his remarkable transformation from elite tight end to accomplished actor with over 30 credits to his name.What separates Vernon from others attempting similar career pivots is his unwavering commitment to mastery. He describes sneaking away from football practice to attend acting classes at the same theater where Danny Glover trained. Now, five years into working with a dedicated acting coach twice weekly, he's seeing the results of that consistency: "If I'm where I'm at right now, imagine what I'm gonna be at in 10 years." This echoes his football approach, where he was famously the last player off the practice field for 14 straight seasons.Perhaps most valuable is Vernon's wisdom about evaluating opportunities. Rather than focusing on products or concepts, he examines the people involved: "People can make or break you. I don't look at the business or the product—I look at the people who I'm working with." This insight saved him countless headaches, as demonstrated by his grandmother's remarkable ability to spot a dishonest financial advisor who later stole $500,000 from him.Throughout our conversation, Vernon's legacy emerges clearly—a man determined to lead by example in everything he does. Whether catching game-winning touchdowns, starring alongside Morgan Freeman, or building businesses, he approaches each endeavor with the same dedication to excellence.Subscribe now to hear more conversations with extraordinary achievers who've mastered the art of reinvention and purposeful living. Share your thoughts with us at [email protected]!Connect and Discover Vernon:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vernondavis85/                       Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vernondavis85/                         YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/vernondavis                                             X: https://x.com/VernonDavis85?                                                                       Book: Playing Ball: Life Lessons from My Journey to the Super Bowl and BeyondFOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

Robert J. O'Neill, the Navy SEAL who took out Osama Bin Laden, brings raw truth and battle-tested wisdom to this riveting conversation about what separates elite performers from everyone else."Stress is a choice," O'Neill states with conviction, describing it as "a bag of bricks you pick up." Drawing from over 400 combat missions, including the most famous raid in modern military history, he reveals how elite operators manage fear and make split-second decisions when lives hang in the balance.The most powerful moment comes when O'Neill recounts saying goodbye to his three-year-old daughter before departing for the Bin Laden mission. Not understanding the gravity of the situation, she packed her Hello Kitty suitcase and left it by the door, asking him to take her on vacation when he returned. These deeply human moments remind us that behind every warrior's face is a person with profound personal connections.From his accidental journey into the SEALs (he didn't even know how to swim) to the mental techniques that helped him survive the world's most brutal military training, O'Neill shares actionable wisdom applicable far beyond the battlefield. His philosophy – "Don't quit today, quit tomorrow" – offers a powerful framework for tackling seemingly impossible challenges by breaking them into manageable pieces.O'Neill's insights on leadership resonate whether you're leading a team into combat or through a difficult project: "Panic is contagious, but calm is even more contagious." His emphasis on mastering fundamentals, communicating clearly, and staying present are lessons distilled from life-or-death situations but remarkably relevant to everyday challenges.Subscribe now to hear more unfiltered conversations with extraordinary performers who've tested themselves at the highest levels. These aren't just war stories – they're masterclasses in mental toughness, leadership, and finding purpose in the most demanding circumstances imaginable.Connect & Discover Robert:Website:  http://www.robertjoneill.comInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mchooyahFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RJORobertJONeillBooks: The OperatorBook: The Way Forward: Master Life's Toughest Battles and Create Your Lasting Legacy FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

What makes billionaires different isn't just their bank accounts—it's their mindset. Christopher Kai has met over 100 billionaires throughout his career, and he's discovered they share a fundamental belief: they see themselves as no different from anyone else who has created something significant.From shoveling snow as a seven-year-old in Queens to delivering keynotes on global stages across five countries, Kai's journey exemplifies how authentic storytelling can transform your life and career. As founder of Gifted Professional Speakers and advisor to Fortune 500 companies, his philosophy is refreshingly simple: "Your story is a gift to the world."The fascinating science behind Kai's approach comes from Stanford University research showing leaders who tell great stories are 22 times more memorable than those who don't. This isn't just academic theory—Kai has proven it works in corporate boardrooms, on luxury yachts with billionaires, and even in Saudi Arabia where cultural barriers might otherwise prevent meaningful connection.For those struggling with public speaking anxiety, Kai offers both compassion and practical wisdom. He reveals the evolutionary reasons behind our fear and shares his own journey from pacing nervously before presentations to commanding stages worldwide. His "Three C's of Explosive Success"—connections, credibility, and communication—provide a framework for anyone looking to amplify their voice and impact.Ready to transform your story into your superpower? This conversation will show you why, as Michelangelo said, "The challenge most of us have is not that we aim too high and miss it; we aim too low and reach it." Subscribe now and learn how to aim higher with your voice, your story, and your purpose.Connect & Discover Christopher:Website: https://christopherkai.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherkai/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherkaidom/X: https://x.com/christopherkai_YouTube: @ChristopherKai.Book:  Story-Based Leadership (coming soon)Book:  Work: The 4 Pillars of Productivity (coming soon)Book:  Big Game Hunting FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

Ruth Mulligan demolishes the myth of the "natural speaker" in this conversation that will transform how you think about communication. A TEDx veteran and master storyteller, Ruth reveals why everyone develops speaking habits—and how to ensure yours serve rather than sabotage you.At the heart of Ruth's approach is a profound belief that "everyone has a voice and everyone has a story." The challenge? Most people need guidance to make their voice heard effectively. Drawing from her new book "The Motivated Speaker," Ruth introduces the concept of "shaded habits"—those small, annoying speech patterns we all have that become major liabilities when illuminated on bigger stages. Whether it's filler words, failing to read the room, or speaking too quickly, these habits can derail your message when it matters most.Ruth's practical frameworks revolutionize how we structure presentations. She recommends thinking of your content like a family tree—with a main message (the grandparent) that branches into three key points (children), each supporting up to three additional points (grandchildren). This hierarchy brings clarity while preventing information overload. Perhaps most counterintuitively, she insists we start with points before stories, ensuring our narratives serve our message rather than wander aimlessly.The six principles from her book offer a comprehensive view of speaking: it's habitual, embodied, comes in many genres, is social, fleeting, and messy. Each provides actionable insights, particularly the emphasis on listening to recordings of yourself—uncomfortable yet transformational. As Ruth notes, "one minute of listening to yourself puts you in the audience," creating the perspective shift needed for improvement.Whether you're delivering boardroom presentations, pitching clients, or simply communicating more effectively with colleagues, Ruth's approach offers a blueprint for becoming the speaker you've always wanted to be. As she reminds us, everyone can improve with practice and the right guidance. Ready to transform your speaking? This conversation is your first step.Connect & Discover Ruth:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthmilligan/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthmilligan/?hl=enWebsite: https://www.articulationinc.com/Book: The Motivated SpeakerFOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

What happens when two of America's most fearless voices on race come together for an unfiltered conversation? In this powerful episode, host Mick  sits down with Emmy and Peabody-winning storyteller W. Kamau Bell and education equity architect Glenn Singleton to explore what drives their decades-long commitment to racial justice.The conversation dives deep into what Bell calls "the Black baton" – the generational responsibility passed down through families to make life better for those who come after. "When my grandparents handed the black baton to my parents, it was lighter than when they got it," Bell explains, describing his mission to ensure it doesn't become heavier during his lifetime. Singleton echoes this sentiment, sharing that his work stems from recognizing that his generation has "more than we've ever had" and feeling responsible to continue the progress.Both men offer practical wisdom about having these crucial conversations. Singleton breaks down his groundbreaking "Beyond Diversity" framework, celebrating its 30th anniversary, which begins with the fundamental question: "What impact does race have on my life?" Bell shares how he navigates these discussions with his three daughters, emphasizing that even his seven-year-old understands political realities in age-appropriate ways. "Justice is sometimes a thing you see that authority will tell you not to see," he explains, highlighting how he empowers his children to recognize injustice.Perhaps most valuable is their guidance for those hesitant to engage in race conversations for fear of saying something wrong. Bell suggests examining your social circle – are you surrounded by people who will lovingly "call you in" when you misspeak? Singleton adds that understanding the "paramount importance of racial justice" in American society is the starting point, followed by recognizing that "race is a symbol of power" with whiteness at the top of the hierarchy.Whether you're a parent trying to have these conversations with your children, a professional navigating workplace dynamics, or simply someone committed to building a more equitable society, this episode offers both inspiration and practical approaches to moving beyond comfort into the spaces where real change happens.Connect & Discover W. Kamau & Glenn:W. Kamau:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wkamaubell/Website: https://www.wkamaubell.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wkamaubellofficial/Substack: @wkamaubellBook: The Awkward Thoughts of W. Kamau Bell Glenn:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courageousdove444/Website: https://courageousconversation.com/Book: Courageous Conversations About RaceEvent: FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

In this inspiring episode of Mick Unplugged, host Mick Hunt sits down with Michael Tubbs—former mayor of Stockton, California, and a national leader in universal income—to dive deep into what it means to redefine possibility, purpose, and public service in America’s cities.Michael Tubbs shares his journey “from poverty to policy,” reflecting on being Stockton’s youngest and first Black mayor, and the driving force behind groundbreaking reforms. With trademark candor, Michael opens up about his sense of purpose:"I just feel so blessed and knowing that my story is so unlikely, that everything I've been able to do is so not what statistics or not what even wisdom would tell you is possible. So I just really feel a big responsibility to make stories like mine less rare."The conversation covers the challenges of leading his hometown, changing detrimental narratives about Stockton, and fostering innovation in government:"It was not a burden, but a real responsibility and a real focus on, like, no, this is not for some other people. It's for me. It's for my family. It's for my neighborhood. And how do we govern in a way where it also feels different?"Michael and Mick discuss the power of community engagement, the importance of collaboration between local businesses and government, and how anyone can affect change:"If you have a heart to serve, a willingness to listen and to read, you are above 99% of folks in local office and you should be a part of the ecosystem. You don't just have to complain. You can do something about it."Tubbs delivers actionable insight for young leaders:"Do not despise small beginnings because the Lord rejoices in seeing the work. Start the work, begin the beginning of a process." and cautions, "Passion without competence is irrelevant… you have to marry that passion with some knowledge, some reading, some understanding of what it is you're trying to do. Or else you may make a bad problem worse."Hear how Michael’s bold vision, relentless drive, and authentic leadership are shaping a new model for impact and inclusion—plus, practical advice on leveraging public policy, government innovation, and local involvement for personal and professional success. Connect & Discover Michael:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldtubbsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StocktonTubbsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC21utOIFQ8Wgw77WxMxzZKwWebsite: https://mtubbs.com/Website: https://endpovertyinca.org/FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

Super Bowl champion and NFL defensive legend Terrell "T-Sizzle" Suggs opens up about his remarkable journey from the gridiron to his greatest role yet – fatherhood. With raw honesty and wisdom earned through years of elite competition, Suggs shares how his purpose has transformed beyond football."My children, my children. I think now I want to be even better dad than I was a football player," Suggs reveals early in our conversation. This unexpected vulnerability from one of football's most feared defenders sets the tone for a profound exploration of identity, leadership, and purpose after the spotlight fades.From his competitive roots in Minnesota to his strategic college choice keeping family close, Suggs takes us through his evolution from rookie to Ravens legend. He pulls back the curtain on learning leadership from Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, describing how their example shaped his approach both on and off the field. "I was a good leader because I had good leaders," he explains with characteristic humility.The conversation transcends sports as Suggs shares his leadership philosophy that resonates across all aspects of life: "A leader would never ask someone to do that he wouldn't do himself." His advice to "always self-check, always start with yourself" offers wisdom for anyone navigating challenges. When discussing his legacy, Suggs focuses not on personal glory but on how he elevated those around him – a lesson in what truly defines greatness.Subscribe now to hear this revealing conversation with a man who dominated the NFL and is now channeling that same intensity into raising his children. What's your "because" – that deeper purpose driving everything you do?Connect & Discover Terrell: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrellsuggs/X: https://x.com/untouchablejay4Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/untouchablejay55/   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/

Daniel Kang is the co-founder of Flobo, a fintech company focused on democratizing financial access for creators and entrepreneurs. With a compelling personal journey from a low-income immigrant family to a leader in the venture capital and fintech spaces, Daniel’s mission is rooted in making opportunities fairly accessible to all. He's also the author of The Super Upside Factor, which explores how individuals can apply venture capital’s asymmetric investing principles to accelerate personal and professional growth. Daniel is known for his innovative thinking, resilience, and commitment to leveraging technology and finance to create positive societal impact.Takeaways:Asymmetric Betting for Everyday Life: Daniel breaks down how venture capital's methods—betting big on outlier wins while managing risk—can be adapted by individuals to create outsized professional and personal results.Start Small, Stay Consistent: Success comes from executing simple principles with unwavering consistency, rather than seeking shortcuts. Daniel’s own story—winning scholarships, writing a book, and building a fintech—emphasizes starting where you are and building up momentum daily.Impact Over Mediocrity: Daniel’s drive stems from a fear of mediocrity and a strong desire to scale positive impact using technology, smart positioning, and persistent effort, rather than just working harder. Sound Bites:"Budget for a 90% failure rate—success is about surviving long enough for luck to catch up.""Every bet should be positioned for outsized, 100x outcomes—even if you only win 10% of the time, your wins will outpace the losses.""Don’t fall into ‘intellectual obesity’—the real difference is made by executing a few simple principles, not by endlessly searching for shortcuts."Quote by Mick: "Sometimes you just got to get started with what you’re doing and understand that it’s a journey. The truth of the matter is, in almost everything we do in life, it takes time."  Connect & Discover Daniel:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsdankang/X: https://x.com/itsdankang?lang=enWebsite: https://itsdankang.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsdankangBook: The Super Upside Factor FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/