The Inspiration Podcast with Stan Gibson

Greg Stephens is the person leaders call when high-stakes conversations can't wait. As founder of Alignment Resources, he has spent more than 25 years coaching executives and training over 100,000 people worldwide to navigate the conversations most leaders avoid, the ones quietly costing organizations time, money, and trust. More than 85% of his clients report his work as "life-changing." Greg's methods aren't theoretical. He personally restored 36 broken relationships in 2.5 years, then turned that experience into a framework leaders use to deliver tough messages, rebuild trust, and resolve conflict under pressure. He is the bestselling author of Build New Bridges: The Art of Restoring Impossible Relationships. Current title and company/organization: Founder, Alignment Resources, LLC Social media profile links: E-Mail:  [email protected] LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregstephens2/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/gregory.stephens.58 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alignment_resources/ Podcast: "A Shot of Inspiration":  https://www.ashotofinspiration.com Episode Summary: Stan Gibson talks with Greg Stevens, a mediator, executive coach, and founder of Alignment Resources, about repairing relationships and navigating high-stakes conversations. Drawing on 25 years in the field and his experience rebuilding 36 relationships, Greg explains how self-management, respectful honesty, and deliberate practice can turn conflict into a chance for personal and organizational change. FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com Key Takeaways: I had a list of 36 people on my list, and it took me two and a half years to do that. You can never control another person. But if you control your own emotions, you control yourself, you control what you do. Will it be enough that you show up as your best self in that moment? When you face that high stakes, high emotions, opposing opinions, all of a sudden most of us buckle under the pressure. You've got to get all the dirty laundry out. You've got to say the hard thing. Doesn't matter how much information you have, you've got to practice it. Get comfortable with the uncomfortable silence. Respectfully speaking your truth is always the right thing.  Fear always distorts. Does the person believe you care about them and their goals? And do you respect them? Those two things. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Greg's 36-relationship repair project 02:52 From people-pleasing to speaking his truth 04:18 Why Greg began repairing old relationships 06:15 The hardest repair: his relationship with his father 09:10 What you can and cannot control in reconciliation 11:35 How team mediation brings difficult truths into the open 14:20 A breakthrough is a start, not the finish 15:18 The "red" rule for stopping personal attacks 18:06 Matching assessments and tools to a team's needs 20:00 Let Them, self-awareness, and learning in layers 24:15 Why conversation skills need real-world practice 27:09 A farmer's-market encounter becomes a coaching moment 31:17 Why leaders struggle to admit what they need to learn 34:02 Speak your truth respectfully and own the impact 36:26 Breathing and silence as tools to reset 40:01 How Greg prepared for the conversation with his father 43:43 Fear distorts what we think is possible 45:12 The two foundations of psychological safety 46:24 Ongoing relationship work and Greg's ideal clients 49:41 Stan's reflections and post-interview takeaway

Brad Adams retired from Southern Nuclear in April 2023 after more than 40 years in commercial nuclear power. His career includes service as Southern Nuclear's Vice President of Engineering, Byron Station Plant Manager, Quad Cities Site Engineering Director, and leadership roles spanning fleet operations support, regulatory assurance, system engineering, work management, and nuclear fuel design. He also has extensive onsite experience at Vogtle Units 3 and 4 during the final stages of construction, startup, and initial operations.   Through NeutronStar Consulting, Brad now advises nuclear utilities, national laboratories, technology companies, services organizations, and industry leaders. His work brings an operator's pragmatism, an engineer's discipline, and an executive's ability to translate strategy into action. Across both his 40-plus-year nuclear career and his post-retirement consulting work, he has consistently delivered measurable outcomes.   Episode Summary: What happens when the smartest person in the room suddenly becomes the least knowledgeable? For nuclear industry veteran Brad Adams, that moment became the turning point of his leadership career.   In this episode of The Inspiration Podcast with Stan, Stan Gibson sits down with his lifelong friend, Brad Adams. They have known each other since grade school in Paxton, Illinois. Brad earned his undergraduate and master's degrees in nuclear engineering from the University of Illinois. He spent 40 years in the commercial nuclear power industry, working his way from Commonwealth Edison (now Constellation) through plant manager at Byron Station to executive roles at Southern Company. He was named a Fellow of the American Nuclear Society in 2021, the society's highest membership grade.   Brad opens up about the lessons that shaped him as a leader: learning to influence others instead of relying on his own expertise, taming a blunt, high-energy personality as he moved into the executive ranks, and adapting when he moved from Chicago to Birmingham, Alabama. He also shares how his career culminated with helping bring Vogtle Units 3 and 4 online. That $30 billion project was the first new nuclear construction in the U.S. in decades.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Takeaways: Influence beats expertise. Know your strength and your overuse of it. Get out of the office. Take on the hard challenges Improve one thing every day. Hire for your gaps. Give people a second chance. Retirement needs purpose. Pass the knowledge on. Legacy is about people.   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Cold Open: From Smartest to Dumbest in the Room 00:55 Meet Brad Adams: Intro from Stan 02:49 Welcome to the Interview 04:14 Growing Up in Paxton, Illinois 06:54 The Football Audible That Broke the Coach's Rules 09:19 40 Years in Nuclear and Why Retirement Never Happened 12:01 Managing by Walking Around: Leading from the Floor 15:39 Where Brad Learned the Most About Leadership 17:45 The Quad Cities Move and the "Dumbest Person in the Room" Moment 19:41 Self-Regulation: When Your Strength Becomes Your Weakness 21:36 Culture Shock: From Chicago to Birmingham ("Bless Your Heart") 23:34 The Phone Call That Echoed Through the Plant 25:48 A New CEO, a New Direction, and the Move to Vogtle 30:22 Earning Trust: Improve Something Every Day 31:36 Lessons from Vogtle for the Next Wave of Reactors 34:47 Data Centers, Clean Energy, and a "Manhattan-Level" Nuclear Project 37:55 Retire or Refocus? Finding Purpose and Starting Neutron Star LLC 42:22 Serving on a Nuclear Safety Review Board 45:07 The Presidential Executive Order and the 400 GW Goal by 2050 48:09 Lessons from the Best (and Worst) Bosses 51:13 Life as "Jeep": Family and Grandchildren 53:46 The Legacy He Hopes to Leave 55:06 How to Connect with Brad 56:34 Parting Words 57:16 Stan's Reflections and Takeaways 59:40 Outro   #InspirationPodcast #LeadershipPodcast #NuclearEnergy #CleanEnergy #EmotionalIntelligence #EQ #LeadershipDevelopment #VogtleUnits3and4 #NuclearPower #SelfAwareness #LegacyLeadership #LiveAndLeadARichAndIntentionalLife #Mentorship #PurposeAfterRetirement #EmergingLeaders

Stan Gibson explains how to build a career identity rooted in purpose rather than a job title. He shares research and client examples, then walks listeners through writing a meaningful "why," defining a present-tense "I am" statement, and turning it into specific 90-day actions.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Takeaways: - When your identity is your title, it's on loan. - Your why has to be bigger than your what. - Adults are more likely to act their way into a new way of thinking than to think their way into a new way of acting. - A word alone, just one word, won't transform you. - What changes you is the identity plus the action that creates the evidence. - A strategy isn't a to do item. - Your title is something you have, but your identity is something you are. - Who do you want to work with, not who do you want to work for? - You want to be bold, but it has to be believable. - One's a wish, but the other one can be calendarized.   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Career identity: more than the answer on your business card 04:13 Why title-based identities feel borrowed and limiting 06:15 Engagement, managers, and the missing sense of identity 09:21 Job, career, or calling: three ways to relate to work 11:25 Job crafting: how small changes make work fit who you are 13:33 The scholarship story that connected work to its impact 16:01 Start with why your work matters to someone else 18:21 Career experiments, new networks, and rewriting your story 22:11 Pair an "I am" identity with "therefore I must" action 25:23 Identity changes through action and evidence 27:11 Career identity, finances, and making your future self vivid 31:27 Four steps for building your career identity 35:15 Turn a vague goal into a calendar-ready 90-day strategy 39:06 Use quotes or scripture to reinforce identity 41:40 This week's practice: write, calendar, and ask for feedback 43:20 Your title can change; your identity travels with you

In this episode, Eric Recker shares his inspiring journey from a successful dentist to an adventurer and author, emphasizing the importance of living in the 'Now' and managing burnout through mindful practices. Discover practical strategies to slow down, reset, and find purpose amidst a hectic life.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Topics: The concept of 'Win the Now' and its origins Eric Recker's adventures in climbing and flying Managing burnout and self-destructive behaviors The importance of pacing and 'pole pole' philosophy Strategies for self-care and mental resilience The impact of childhood bullying on personal growth Balancing a successful dental practice with adventurous pursuits The significance of purpose and 'why' in life and work Lessons learned from mountain climbing and endurance sports How to identify and overcome burnout signs   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Eric Recker and his diverse pursuits 02:13 Eric's dental practice and leadership style 04:08 Adventures in flying, climbing, and endurance sports 07:58 The story behind 'Win the Now' and its significance 13:51 Lessons from Kilimanjaro and the 'pole pole' philosophy 19:56 The importance of pacing and managing stress 23:46 Recognizing signs of burnout and self-destructive behaviors 29:53 Strategies for self-care and living intentionally 36:51 Reflections on medals, purpose, and personal growth 45:12 Who is 'not for' and finding the right clients 50:04 How to connect with Eric Recker and final thoughts

In this episode, Stan Gibson explores the transformative power of identity and how intentionality in key areas of life can lead to a richer, more fulfilling existence. Discover practical strategies to shape your self-perception and create lasting change.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Takeaways: Your behavior is a vote for your identity. The brain treats I am statements as facts, not just words. Consistency and evidence are key to reinforcing new identities. Your reticular activating system helps you notice opportunities aligned with your identity. Small actions over 66 days can change your habits and identity.   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Power of Identity 02:20 Understanding the Science of Transformational Identity 03:46 The Five Areas for Intentionality in Life 06:55 Creating Your First Identity Statement 08:50 The Science Behind Self-Perception and Beliefs 12:07 The Identity Loop: I Am, Evidence, I Must, Action 17:54 The Role of Neuroscience in Reinforcing Identity 21:46 Building and Reinforcing Your New Identity 26:00 Applying Identity Principles to Different Life Domains 38:56 Practical Steps to Rewrite Your Identity 45:08 Homework: Creating Your Identity Statement

In this episode, Jeff shares his journey from corporate success to founding Royal Lynx Golf Tours, emphasizing the importance of relationships, culture, and experience in creating memorable golf trips. We explore how his background in corporate leadership and coaching informs his approach to business and life.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Topics: Jeff's transition from corporate to golf tours The culture and history of Scottish golf courses The importance of relationships and local knowledge in travel How to create memorable travel experiences Leadership and legacy in business and life   Episode Chapters: 02:00 The importance of authentic, non-commercialized golf courses 02:29 Curating personalized golf and cultural experiences 02:53 Common mistakes in planning golf trips and how to avoid them 03:21 The value of relationships and local partnerships in travel 03:47 Jeff's advice for those wanting to explore Scottish golf 04:16 The role of caddies and local guides in enhancing the experience 04:43 The significance of slowing down and enjoying the journey 05:10 Jeff's transition from corporate to coaching and golf business 05:40 Lessons learned from corporate leadership and coaching 06:08 The importance of purpose and being irreplaceable in work 06:35 Balancing risk and reward in entrepreneurship 07:02 The value of planning and relationships in business success 07:30 Final thoughts and how to connect with Jeff

In this episode, Stan Gibson explores the transformative power of visioning, goal setting, and journaling to create a life by design. He shares science-backed techniques for rewiring the brain, the importance of specificity, and practical tips for integrating these practices into daily life.   FREE GIFTS FOR LEADERS: https://leadwithstan.com MORE INFO: https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com   Key Topics: The role of neuroplasticity in achieving goals How to use journaling to rewire your brain for success The importance of specificity in visioning exercises Science behind visualization and goal achievement Practical steps for creating a five-year vision journal The connection between self-awareness and identity formation Historical examples of journaling by famous leaders The impact of gratitude and emotional regulation in goal setting Tools and techniques for effective journaling and reflection The significance of intentional living and leadership   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Intro: Visioning and Working Backwards 00:46 The Five-Year Vision Journal: The Bridge Between Awareness and Identity 01:44 Rewiring Your Brain by Writing the Future in Past Tense 03:39 Maxwell Maltz and Psycho-Cybernetics 05:14 Your Brain's Built-In Guidance System 07:41 Is Visioning Just Goal Setting? 09:17 The Power of a 15-Minute End-of-Day Reflection 10:35 Journaling for Anxiety and Better Sleep 12:02 How Writing Frees Up Mental Space 13:06 Famous Journalers Through History 14:18 Stan's 7-Minute Morning Journaling Routine 17:08 Handwriting vs. Typing: What the Science Says 20:24 Back to the Five-Year Vision: The Three Phases 21:20 How the Five-Year Journal Works (Start With the End) 23:29 The Questions That Make You Stop and Think 24:49 Coffee Time: Protecting Your Uninterrupted Space 25:39 Creating a Present-Tense Identity Statement 27:58 Questions to Ask Yourself Today 29:31 How to Start: Pick Up a Pen and Schedule It 30:18 Recap and an Invitation to Reach Out 31:19 Legacy Labs Mastermind Announcement 32:36 Wrap-Up and Sign-Off

In this episode, Kristi Knouse shares her inspiring journey through leadership, community impact, and her personal battle with stage four cancer. Discover how her faith, mentorship, and community work have shaped her life and leadership style.   Connect with Kristi Knouse: LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiknous/ PODCAST GUESTING: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVhkUdjNHy_Jd8c_IlBJWJdSxXCHwYuuR ; Email Address: [email protected]   Key Topics: Kristi Knouse's role as president of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines The growth of the foundation from 31 million to 1.2 billion in assets Impact of community collaboration and public-private partnerships in Iowa Leadership lessons from top Iowa business and community leaders Kristi's personal journey with stage four cancer and faith-based resilience The importance of mentorship and creating a personal board of advisors The role of gratitude and faith in facing life's challenges The significance of community impact and legacy building in leadership Insights into the community's leadership culture and collaboration Kristi's advice for emerging leaders and the importance of continuous learning   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Kristi Knouse and her leadership impact 01:56 Overview of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines 03:55 Growth and impact of the foundation's assets and grants 09:00 Leadership culture and collaboration in Des Moines 15:08 Personal stories of mentorship and leadership influence 19:59 Kristi's journey with stage four cancer and faith 29:46 Reflections on community impact and legacy 40:12 Advice for emerging leaders and continuous learning 50:02 Closing thoughts and contact information

Linda Foggie is the Global Head of Real Estate and Corporate Services at Scotiabank, where she oversees a global portfolio spanning more than 30 countries and supporting over 90,000 employees. Her mandate includes enterprise-wide real estate and corporate services functions, such as global travel, food and hospitality, and corporate cards.   Linda brings deep international experience from her prior as Global Head of Real Estate Operations at Citibank, as well as senior roles at Wells Fargo and CBRE. At CBRE, she led a revenue‑generating Global Corporate Services business, further strengthening her commercial and client-oriented perspective. A licensed architect and Columbia Business School MBA, Linda serves on a private equity–backed board and is actively engaged in a range of philanthropic initiatives.   Episode Summary: In this episode, Linda Foggie shares her inspiring journey through the real estate industry, leadership lessons, and the importance of growth mindset and intentionality in achieving success. Discover how she navigates diversity, builds culture, and leaves a lasting legacy.   Key Topics: Linda Foggie's career journey from Manhattan to global leadership Leadership lessons on overcoming fear and pushing through insecurities The importance of growth mindset and lifelong learning Navigating diversity and building inclusive culture Strategies for effective leadership in global organizations The role of intentionality in career and life Balancing personal life and high-level responsibilities Leaving a legacy through impact and service   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Linda Foggie's impressive career 04:06 Overcoming fear and insecurities in leadership 06:03 The importance of continuous learning and education 07:49 Navigating diversity and building inclusive culture 10:10 The role of intentionality in career growth 11:58 Balancing personal life and professional responsibilities 13:55 Leadership advice for new leaders and scaling careers 15:47 Creating authentic connections across cultures 18:05 The impact of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership 20:03 Maintaining energy and motivation during travel 21:56 Moving to a Sunshine-filled life and enjoying the journey 24:08 The importance of strong relationships and support systems 25:57 Advice for new leaders in complex organizations 28:12 The significance of influence and taking on responsibility 30:02 The value of networking and visibility in career advancement 31:51 Traits to look for in high-potential talent 33:51 The importance of integrity and adaptability in leadership 35:48 Linda Foggie's legacy and impact on others 37:53 Final thoughts on servant leadership and living intentionally 40:04 Contact information and closing remarks

In this episode, Stan Gibson explores the critical role of self-awareness in leadership and personal growth. He discusses psychometric assessments like Clifton Strengths, Enneagram, and Aptive, and how understanding your strengths and kryptonite can transform your career and relationships.   Key Topics: - The importance of self-awareness in leadership - Psychometric assessments: Clifton Strengths, Enneagram, Aptive - Understanding your strengths and kryptonite - Neuroplasticity and transformational identity - The role of emotional intelligence in career success - How to leverage team strengths for better collaboration - Stress responses and reactions under fear and pressure - Using AI tools to create personalized self-awareness reports   Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Self-Awareness and Leadership 02:19 The Significance of Self-Awareness in Personal and Professional Growth 03:11 The Gap Between Perceived and Actual Self-Awareness 04:07 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Career Advancement 06:03 Understanding Decision Biases and the Brain's Bias for Negative News 08:20 Overview of Clifton Strengths and Its Impact on Team Dynamics 11:46 The Enneagram and Its Deep Insights into Motivation and Stress 19:35 Additional Assessments: Aptive and Their Benefits 24:50 Using AI to Create a Personalized Self-Awareness Profile 26:17 Visioning and Setting Future Goals Based on Self-Awareness 27:12 Transformational Identity and Showing Up with Purpose 28:38 The Power of Mindset and Overcoming Negative Bias 30:06 Practical Steps to Enhance Self-Awareness and Leadership 31:30 Encouragement to Take Assessments and Embrace Self-Knowledge 34:21 Join the Legacy Lab and Continuous Leadership Development