Michele LeSage has spent four decades helping organizations—from construction firms to Lucasfilm—turn branded merchandise into memorable, referral-generating experiences. In this conversation, she shares how creativity beats catalogs, why “sales without compassion” fails, and the routines and networks that keep her business moving. We also cover practical promo strategy (like why sticky-note cubes are sneaky-powerful), succession planning, work-life rhythms, and the happiness mindset she’d put on a billboard.

In this episode, I talk with Allan Jaffe, VP of Technology at Top Speed Data, about his 40+ year career in telecom and tech. We cover what it means to be a technology advisor, how his team helps businesses solve problems without extra cost, and why cybersecurity is more important than ever. Allan also shares thoughts on work-life balance, daily routines, and how perspective and kindness go a long way in business and life.

In this episode, I sit down with Russ Powell of Russ Powell Consulting to explore what it really takes to be an effective leader and team builder. Russ shares the winding path that led him from psychology and teaching to instructional design, the U.S. Coast Guard, and eventually into leadership development. We talk about why most people don’t think systemically, the value of simplicity in coaching, and how habits like journaling, poetry, and reflection can power real transformation. Russ also shares his daily poem, practical frameworks for teams, and what makes his coaching style unique.

In this episode, I chat with Jeff Arnold from the Armstrong Company about his unique path through retail sales, tech, cannabis consulting, and eventually landing in the world of professional moving. Jeff opens up about lessons learned from early jobs, why he keeps gravitating toward sales, and how becoming a dad reshaped his priorities. We dive into the wild economics of cannabis, what it’s like selling complex moving services, and why building trust and relationships matters more than any sales tactic.

In this episode, I sit down with Brynn Wilson, an estate planning attorney. Brynn walks us through her unique journey into law, starting as a high school receptionist at a law firm, and how she found her passion in estate planning. We talk about what it really means to be a partner at a law firm, the emotional challenges of estate litigation, and the nuances of helping families navigate end-of-life decisions. She also opens up about her personal routines, how she maintains momentum in her career, and the importance of self-awareness and positivity in building a meaningful life and business.

In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Hart of Jessica Hart Consulting to explore the world of HR for small and medium-sized businesses. Jessica shares insights on the most common HR pitfalls, what drives her passion for human resources, and how she navigates the constantly changing legal landscape—especially in California. She also opens up about launching her own consulting practice, juggling family life, and the power of networking in building a business.

In this episode, I chat with Roxanne Alban, owner of Applied Financial Services, Inc., to explore the critical financial challenges businesses face and how to overcome them. Roxanne shares her journey from working in a domestic violence organization to becoming an entrepreneur helping nonprofits and businesses streamline their financial processes. She also provides actionable advice for business owners to gain control over their finances and highlights the importance of trust, understanding, and teamwork in her approach to financial management.

This week I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Cynthia Riggs of the Biz Diva. Cynthia’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring. From an unexpected start at a flea market to building a multi-million dollar clothing line, Cynthia shares the lessons and challenges she faced, particularly in creating high-quality, stylish clothing for plus-size women when such options were scarce.

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Larrabure from Larrabure Construction and Design. Ryan shares his inspiring journey from starting as a painter in Petaluma to running a successful construction business. We delve into the importance of finding the right people, offering opportunities for growth, and the challenges of managing a small business.

In this episode, I sit down with Ramsay Brown, a Commercial Relationship Manager at a local community bank. We dive into Ramsey's fascinating career journey, from his MBA days to his current role where he thrives on helping businesses secure the financing they need to grow.

In this episode, I chat with Kyle Masterpole, the founder of The Bay Fitness. Kyle shares his journey from working at Dairy Queen in high school to becoming a strength and conditioning coach for college athletes and ultimately starting his own mobile fitness business.

We dive into an engaging conversation with Matthew Larrabure, who shares his unique journey from running a hot dog cart in college to becoming a successful financial advisor. Matthew recounts his early entrepreneurial ventures, the importance of setting clear goals, and the impact of surrounding yourself with good people. He also provides insights into managing work-life balance, the role of continuous learning, and his quirky coffee routine.

In episode 2 of On the Flywheel, we sit down with guest Stephen McNeil, EVP of Strategic Partners & Programs at TRUE Network Advisors. We talk about the processes and habits he builds into his own life to create a foundation for success and the need for businesses to continue to adapt in order to grow and thrive.

On episode 001, we talk to Dan Ancheta, President of Sequence Mortgage. Join us as Dan shares his journey from entrepreneurial ventures like owning a CrossFit gym to leading a growing mortgage business.