Hey Axis Leaders, This week, I want us to lean into a truth that often gets overlooked in leadership: vulnerability. In this TED Talk, Brené Brown reminds us that vulnerability is not weakness—it’s actually one of the greatest signs of courage. When leaders admit they don’t have all the answers, they build deeper trust and connection with their teams. Authenticity creates the kind of culture where people feel safe to bring their whole selves to the table. 🔗 Brené Brown – The Power of Vulnerability; https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability 💡 Key Takeaways: - Vulnerability is not weakness—it’s courage. - Leaders who admit they don’t have all the answers build trust. - Connection comes from authenticity. 👉 Discussion: How can showing vulnerability make you a stronger leader?

Good morning leaders! I invite you to enjoy this week’s Leadership Latte, spotlighting my accountability partner of over a decade, Phil Lambert. Discover how our friendship, rooted in faith and shared experiences highlights the value of accountability, connection, and encouragement in leadership...and in life. Remember to download the Skool app and turn on notifications to stay connected with our community. As you reflect on today’s episode, I invite you to think about that person in your swirl that keeps you grounded and is there for you through thick and thin. Give them a shout-out in the comments. Expressing gratitude for anything or anyone is a wonderful way to activate the law of attraction and create more of those good vibes in your life. I hope you all have a marvelous Monday and a wonderful week! Thank you so much for being a part of this community and our shared leadership odyssey!

Hey Leaders, Did you know strong communication is at the heart of every great leader—but if your team doesn’t feel included, engaged, or heard, your message may be missing the mark. In this episode of the Maxwell Executive Leadership Podcast, Chris Goede and Perry Holley unpack the real impact of inclusive communication—and why it’s essential to building trust, psychological safety, and team buy-in. Whether you’re leading meetings, casting vision, or coaching direct reports, this episode gives you practical tools to create a culture where everyone feels seen and valued. Listen. Reflect. Comment your thoughts below! Let's all grow together.

Each of these resources plays a vital role in a small business owner’s success. Their importance may vary depending on the industry, business model, and stage of the business. Here's how each one contributes: 1. Banker: Critical in securing loans, managing business accounts, and offering financial guidance. A good banking relationship can lead to better loan terms and financial flexibility. 2. Real Estate (Commercial) Agent is essential if leasing or purchasing a business location (brick-and-mortar). They help negotiate leases, find suitable properties, and understand zoning laws, which is especially crucial for businesses with physical locations like dog boarding and grooming. 3. Accountant/ Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Highly important for managing finances, tax planning, bookkeeping, and compliance with tax laws. They help maximize deductions and keep financial records in order. 4. Insurance Agent: Essential for risk management. They help protect the business from liabilities, property damage, employee-related claims, and other risks through tailored insurance policies. 5. Legal Support: This is necessary for structuring the business (LLC, S-Corp, etc.), contracts, compliance, intellectual property, and potential disputes. Having a lawyer on call can prevent costly legal issues. 6. IT Support: This is important for businesses relying on technology for operations, security, customer management, or online marketing. Even small businesses need cybersecurity, website maintenance, and payment system support. 7. Spouse or Significant Other: This is extremely important. They provide emotional support and financial stability (if applicable) and may even contribute directly to business operations. Their buy-in can affect the business owner's ability to take risks and manage stress effectively. Prioritization (Depending on Business Type): Critical for all businesses: Banker - Accountant - Insurance Agent - Legal Support (BAIL)

Good morning Axis Leadership Community! I just wrapped up Perry Startup Week, a powerhouse event for small business growth, and walked away with some gold nuggets of wisdom. Here’s my quick take on my top 5 lessons learned: 1. AI is a Force Multiplier: If you’re not tapping into AI, you’re missing a massive edge. It’s not about being tech-obsessed—it’s about working smarter. AI can automate tasks, crunch data, and free you up to focus on what matters. Embrace it, or risk falling behind. 2. Time is Your Only Finite Resource: You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. Delegate, outsource, and let go of wearing every hat. Protecting your time unlocks growth—don’t squander it on things others can handle. 3. Marketing Sweet Spot: Passion Meets Opportunity: Effective marketing isn’t just about what you’re good at—it’s where your skills intersect with real opportunities. Target clients you’re great at helping and enjoy serving. Work with people who energize you, and the results will shine. 4. You Are Your Best Marketing Tool: Small business thrives on relationships. Your authenticity, story, and connection with others sell better than any ad. Lean into being the face of your brand—it’s your superpower. 5. "QTIP" When You Fail: Failure stings, but don’t take it personally (Quit Taking It Personally—QTIP). It’s a detour, not a dead end. Learn, adjust, and keep moving forward. Perry Startup Week was a reminder that entrepreneurship is about strategy, heart, and resilience. Which of these resonates with you? What golden nuggets do you have to share? Let’s keep the conversation going in our community!