GSD Factor Podcast

Season 3 brought us 37 incredible episodes and guests that showed up as their true authentic selves, sharing their stories and their lessons of what to do and what not to do. Thank you to all our guests for powerfully choosing to join us this season on the GSD Factor podcast. Here is part 1 of 2 of our best of season 3 where we take you back to our favorite moments from each episode. Find an episode that you want to hear the entire podcast, click below: Alexander Ostojic  Kristie Crenshaw Jody LaVoie Kaylyn Harris Anthony Beckett Renee Bruns Nora DiNuzzo Yesenia Sevilla Layne Cagle Brooke Eby Tracy Borreson Ashley Brooke James Kellie Geisel Meredith Patrick Michael Davis Qualia Hendrickson Nick Woodard Deanna Meador Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

If each of us has a superpower, Steve Lomas' is pulling together the best possible team to bring an idea to life. That process of turning a promising concept into something exciting and valuable – making it real – is still magical to him. Accomplished entrepreneur and CEO, Steve Lomas leads two Nashville-based firms: MojoMediaPros, a digital marketing agency, and The Roster Agency, a creative talent staffing company. Benefiting from his background as a Fortune500 innovator, serial startup founder, and former EdTech executive, Lomas excels at harnessing emerging technologies for the creative development, promotion, and marketing of products and services. His extensive experience includes collaborations with Dreamworks, Philips, Xerox, Panasonic, EA Games, ACT, Discovery Channel, ABC, NBC, WorldBook, College Board, Sesame Learning, and the Southern Poverty Law Center. A life long advocate for the freelance economy, Lomas has employed hundreds of freelancers throughout his career. Drawing on his experience in the Los Angeles film and television industry, Lomas contributed to talent acquisition at lynda.com (now LinkedIn Learning), where he successfully recruited top authors to the platform. He now leverages these skills to cultivate a robust freelance network for The Roster. Connect with Steve Lomas on LinkedIn The Roster Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Meet 18-year-old-young entrepreneur, Raya Whitlock as she shares her passion for organization and design and how that became the driving force of her launching her successful business, Written By Raya while still in high school.  Also this episode was edited and produced by a Juniors in high school as part of mentorship program through Williamson County Schools Entrepreneur and Innovation Center.   Written by Raya Follow Written by Raya on Instagram Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Tissa Richards unlocks the power of “So what?” to help streamline how you work, achieve organizational alignment, and set and exceed your goals. As a serial Silicon Valley tech startup founder, Tissa raised millions of dollars in funding, secured multiple patents for complex cybersecurity products, and won awards for innovation from both HPE and Dell. Today, she operates as a sought-after keynote speaker, trusted executive advisor, and corporate facilitator to Fortune 1000 and growth-stage organizations—helping them connect strategy to execution, so they can unlock the key to consistent growth. Connect with Tissa Richards on LinkedIn Tissa Richards Website Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

"You deserve to make money doing what lights you up without feeling tied 24/7 to your biz. But that’ll only happen if you stop being “busy” and start being productive." Stacey Saunders helps entrepreneurs and business owners feel more productive, accomplished, and calm at the end of the day by coaching them on how to go from busyness to business. Stacey is known for training professionals on purposeful productivity and for relationship-building that helps others establish successful strategic partnerships. Stacey has been a leader, manager, and trainer in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors for more than 20 years. As a coach, she helps professionals examine their operations and find ways to be more efficient, productive, and impactful. She is a facilitator. This work has helped Stacey, her clients and her students focus on how their individuality impacts their business success and interpersonal communications. Stacey is an advocate for women and girls and volunteers at a variety of Chicago community organizations. Connect with Stacey Saunders on LinkedIn Stacey Saunders Website Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Leaders today do not fully appreciate the ripple effects of their decisions, and it’s eroding trust in organizations. In our highly interconnected world, a top-down, siloed approach to leadership is not only ineffective, it’s a culture killer. As a result, collaboration is suffering and organizations are struggling to retain top talent. After skyrocketing through corporate America to become a top HR exec by the age of 30, Chris Rollins learned that human-centric skills are at the heart of great leadership and business success. He also learned that trust is built and broken through the powerful ripple effects of seemingly insignificant moments. His programs have helped organizations like Walmart, SAP, Clorox and others embrace a Ripple Effect Mindset - activating a wave of human-centered leaders across all levels of their business. The result is an inspired, empowered and engaged workforce that moves forward faster and brings everyone along. His talks have garnered a 98% rating with diverse audiences ranging from local auto repair shop owners to global Fortune 50 executives. Chris lives in Tampa with his husband, rescue dog and serves on the board of several local organizations. Connect with Chris Rollins on LinkedIn Chris Rollins website Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Today's episode is special for many reasons as our host, Misha Bleymaier-Farrish has her daughter R.C. Farrish on as a special guest. Today is her birthday and the launch of their new co-authored children's book GSD Factor Juniors! Together with her daughter, R.C. Farrish, Misha is bringing the GSD Factor to the youngest generation with GSD Factor Juniors.  GSD Factor Juniors is derived from The GSD Factor and is comprised of six attributes: confidence, inquisitiveness, imagination, presence, resilience, and influence. GSD Factor Juniors incorporates six stories from her point of view, including various scenarios she has encountered with her peers during elementary school. She wanted to share her personal stories in hopes of helping others develop their confidence and sense of authentic self, both during their childhood and into their adulthood. Get your copy of the GSD Factor Juniors book and coloring book on our Kickstarter campaign.   Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Today's conversation introduces Dr. Alessandria Polizzi, a global leader in psychological health and safety, who will discuss strategies for building resilience based on medical research and various resources. The focus will be on shifting self-criticism to self-coaching, the importance of understanding one's purpose and values, and the significance of setting boundaries. Dr. Allessandria Polizzi is a former HR executive who is now the CEO of Verdant Consulting, a Start-Up Boston People-First Organization Runner-Up for 2024., and a top 20 Workplace Wellness provider and top 10 Emerging Organizational Change company for 2022 that supports mental health in the workplace through resiliency and psychological health and safety programs. Her first book, The Workplace Mental Health Strategy Workbook, was published in 2024 and provides guidance on proactive approaches for creating healthy and thriving workplaces. She is also the ISO Global Liaison for Occupational Health and Safety and has served as an expert on psychological health and safety for professional associations, media, and the National Safety Council. Connect with Dr. Allessandria Polizzi on LinkedIn Website Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Chelsie Tamms, an entrepreneur for the past eight years, transformed her life after a medical incident in eighth grade, which ignited her passion for art, graphics, and branding. She helps organizations translate their personal values into professional success, with her work appearing in various retail outlets. On this episode Chelsie will share her entrepreneurial journey, including challenges and strategies for balancing work, life, and health, highlighting the importance of choosing a path that aligns with personal needs and values. Chelsie Tamms is an artist, educator, and entrepreneur. She founded Lettering Works in 2016, combining her love of hand-lettering with her expertise in marketing. Since then, she’s grown her business to offer custom branding packages, courses for artists, and wholesale products and merchandise—all with the mission to bring more creativity into her community and beyond. She is especially drawn to cause-driven projects surrounding mental health, chronic illness, and underrepresented communities. Website Freebie (5-Day Brand Challenge) Connect with Chelsie Tamms on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

We all want to have a sense of energy, joy, and fulfillment in what we do. But how do we do that? Today's guest shares his foundational steps to achieving it all.  About the Guest: In 2001, Danny Pippin sat in a packed arena and heard Zig Ziglar say “You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want” and felt as though he was speaking directly to him. Since that day, he has dedicated himself to personal growth and professional developments because as his friend and mentor, John Maxwell says “You cannot give what you do not have.” Danny spent 18 years leading over 70 highly profitable multimillion-dollar businesses and building leadership and sales teams across the country during his Telecom & Corporate Retail career working with brands like Buckle, PacSun, Lucky Brand, and Billy Reid. In addition, he served as Head of Stores & Ecom for a Fashion Retailer, Creative Director for an Apparel Brand, and Chief Operating Officer for a Branding Agency and a Fashion Technology Company. From that experience, he has developed a 4-Part Framework to help entrepreneurs, business leaders, and organizations optimize people, operations, and sales strategies for better results through consulting, coaching, and workshops.  Learn More: https://www.dannypippin.com/ Connect with Danny Pippin on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

You’ve heard of fear of failure. But have you heard of fear of success? It’s real.  Our guest today shares how to tap into your seasons of growth to overcome any fear of success you might be having. About today's guest: Rosa Castaño, a Keynote speaker & founder of Workplace Stress Solutions, merges her vast workplace experience with her passion for helping companies and employees support their mental health and emotional well being. She educates individuals on practical stress management techniques, empowering them to pursue, create, and accomplish their life's aspirations and goals. Connect with Rosa Castaño on Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Nashville based Brittany Tucker is a dynamic keynote speaker and coach experienced in speaking to over 350 businesses globally over the past 13 years. Her passion is motivating individuals to live a life true to who they are. Britt earned her undergrad from Auburn University where she was a collegiate cheerleader, in addition to a Masters at Georgia Southern University. Furthermore, she is a Disney Institute graduate, John Maxwell speaker, and has completed continuing education at Emory and Berkeley. She also earned a certification in entrepreneurship from Harvard HBX and was honored to be named a recipient to 40 Under 40 class. As a domestic violence survivor Britt is an advocate for awareness + education. Connect with Brittany Tucker on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Baily Hancock is a Connection Strategist and “Professional Friend-Maker” who teaches people how to intentionally build, nurture, and leverage relationships to achieve their goals. She speaks about harnessing the power of Connection-Centered Thought Leadership™ to increase awareness, inspire action, and create impact in the world through workshop facilitation, panel conversations, and as a guest on podcasts.   A natural-born connector, Baily has spent her life curating her community and nurturing her network, priding herself on being only a degree or two of separation from just about anyone (including Kevin Bacon). Throughout the past decade, she’s worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs, creatives, and executives teaching them how to gain credibility through collaboration and amplify their influence through connection.   Connect with Baily Hancock on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Are you ready for the inevitable?   Angela Billings, U.S. Air Force veteran, strategist, entrepreneur, speaker, and author is a master communicator who has coached military officers and executives and performed in many high-profile positions while serving in the Air Force for over twenty years. Her approach is to engage early and often in public spaces. In her view, it is better to manage the narrative than have someone else tell your story. This active yet measured approach has helped Angela weather the toughest of public relations storms.  Join us for this episode to hear some of her incredible stories and how this influential GSDer navigates crises. Connect with Angela Billings on LinkedIn Get her book on Amazon today   Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Are you ready to be a Wonderwoman?  Whether on stage or online, Christy Smallwood is an engaging and energetic keynote speaker who makes her audiences think different to do different. Christy’s keynote and workshop on the BEING SUPER method blends humor and storytelling to help people understand themselves, be inspired to see their potential, understand their place in the world a little more, and empowered to take steps forward through their battles. https://christysmallwood.com/ Connect with Christy Smallwood on LinkedIn   Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

What better way to be present than to kick off today's episode with a guided meditation with Emma Miele.  Emma is an ICF-accredited coach, with a Master's degree in Transformational Coaching and Leadership, and over seven years of experience in the coaching field. After spending a decade in the corporate financial space, Emma began to understand that in our hectic lives, it's all too easy to lose touch with our true desires and motivations. Bringing together the skills she developed in the first part of her career, she founded The Breathing Room LLC, Coaching and Facilitating with the vision of creating a space for her clients to slow down, reflect, and connect with their inner wisdom.  Through her coaching, Emma supports work teams to collaborate more efficiently, aspiring managers to develop valuable communication skills, entrepreneurs to realize the ROI of authenticity, and individuals to discover their unique paths toward success and fulfillment.   Connect with Emma Miele on LinkedIn Website Schedule time with Emma Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Are you ready for your Renaissance?  Sydney Dozier, CEO and Founder of the Nashville-based social media agency Renaissance Marketing Group and The Renaissance Women's Summit, has made it her life's mission to help ignite the Renaissance in female entrepreneurs.   Sydney is not only a business dynamo but also the host of The Renaissance Podcast, aimed at empowering entrepreneurs. Her dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs led to The Mona Lisa Foundation, offering mentorship, grants, education, and a vibrant community.  Learn More: Renaissance Marketing Group Connect with Sydney on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Introducing our powerhouse panel for 2024: Renee Bruns, Brook Eby, and Stacie King.  Each one of these incredible GSD women are influential leaders living a life of confidence and resilience.  They utilize their voices for good and impact around the world.  They are advocates for those with disabilities and continue to push the boundaries for what individuals with disabilities can do.   Guinness World Record Holder Renee Bruns is a former insurance executive who left her role at a Fortune 500 on a mission to see the world and reshape her views of humanity.  After a life of living with an undiagnosed physical disability that caused her to use a wheelchair full-time, she set out on a solo trip to find her place in this world.  Through her travels to 124 countries, all 7 continents, and all 50 states, she became a Guinness World Record Holder of the most countries visited in one year.  She is a life coach helping those who are looking to restructure their lives and helps guide and advocate for those navigating undiagnosed medical conditions. Brooke Eby was diagnosed with ALS, a terminal, debilitating disease with no cure, at the age of 33 after four years of confusing symptoms.  She’s spent the last year sharing her story through outlets like The Today Show, as well as on social media with her over 100,000 followers.  She’s fundraised nearly $1 million for ALS research.  With the support of her friends and family, she’s been able to laugh in the face of ALS. Stacie King is Senior Vice President of NowCerts, in addition to being the Founder & CEO of Stacie King & Company, LLC, a boutique digital marketing agency, and Culture is King, a digital publication that focuses on sharing the expertise and stories of leaders to create diverse and inclusive organizations & communities.  Stacie has always been very open about her life as a disabled woman, and she shares her story about life as a self-proclaimed “Wobbly Girl” in her personal podcast called “This Wobbly Life.”  She also works tirelessly to raise awareness for people with disabilities. Connect: Renee Bruns on LinkedIn Brooke Eby on LinkedIn Stacie King on LinkedIn Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

As a writer with 20+ years of experience, Catherine Traffis is a champion of economical expression. She is currently one of the busiest writers in the content studio of an influential software company. Writing about cutting-edge technology gives her the perfect outlet to express her infectious optimism for the future. Catherine is a Canadian content writer and editor who currently works in the Writers Studio at Microsoft. In 2011, a distracted driver caused an accident that left her with a serious spinal injury called a “Hangman’s Fracture.” Devastated and in agony, Catherine knew she had to get well for the sake of her three young boys. When her neurosurgeon told her she would never work again, she quietly resisted. After a year of convalescence and with the support of her husband, Ray, Catherine began taking back her career. While she still manages chronic pain, she has recovered to an extent that her doctors call “miraculous.” Catherine credits remote work and flexible hours as keys to her success and is always happy to trade strategies with others who need modified environments to thrive. Connect on LinkedIn with Catherine Traffis Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks

Rachel Joy Baribeau joins us on the GSD Factor podcast to talk about how she is powerfully choosing JOY to change the narrative.  She is an award-winning Storyteller, Inspirational Speaker, Author, Changing the Narrative Founder, Transformative Coach, Host of the Joystarters™ Podcast, First Female SiriusXM ESPNU Host (College Sports Nation), and Former National Sportscaster. Rachel developed the #ImChangingtheNarrative movement with lost souls and student-athletes in mind and a belief that one crooked course made straight is everything. Rachel uses powerful stories with refreshingly raw vulnerability from her own personal journey to show others they have the power to change the narrative and find their purpose in life. When she's not speaking or on tour promoting her most recent book, Relentless Joy: Finding Freedom, Passion and Happiness (Even When You Have to Fight for It), she enjoys working to help others find their own Passion, Purpose, Platform & Freedom to change the narrative and life a life of Relentless JOY! Visit: https://www.rachelbaribeau.com/   Visit us at GSD Factor https://gsdfactor.com/ Purchase the GSD Factor Life book series: https://linktr.ee/GSDFactorLifeBooks