They’re teaching 12-year-olds how to pass laws.

In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with Cheryle Totten to discuss the Youth Legislature program in Louisiana—a powerful middle school leadership program that teaches students how the legislative process works through hands-on civic engagement.

For more than 25 years, Youth Legislature has empowered middle school students to write, debate, and pass mock legislation while building confidence, public speaking skills, and real leadership experience. This nonprofit youth program is helping shape informed voters, engaged citizens, and the next generation of leaders across Louisiana.

In this conversation, we cover:

00:00 Coming up

01:10 Theme Song

01:35 Introduction to Youth Legislature and Its Impact

06:27 Understanding the Youth Legislature Program

14:00 The Importance of Civic Engagement in Middle School

18:22 Expanding the Program Statewide

24:09 Challenges of Nonprofit Management

32:57 The Role of Educators in Youth Legislature

33:25 Cheryl's Journey to Leadership

41:58 Leadership Lessons and Recommended Reads

47:41 How to Get Involved and Support Youth Legislature

If you're passionate about leadership development, youth empowerment, civic education, nonprofit impact, or preparing the next generation of leaders, this episode is for you.

Connect with Aaron Clark:

Website: https://coachaclark.com

Email: aaron@coachaclark.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/coach_a_clark

Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/clarkconnectionpodcast

Subscribe for weekly conversations on leadership, personal growth, and building lasting impact.

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

#LeadershipDevelopment #YouthLeadership #CivicEngagement #MiddleSchoolLeadership #YouthLegislature #StudentLeadership #EducationMatters #NonprofitImpact #LouisianaLeadership #PublicSpeakingSkills #FutureLeaders #CommunityEngagement #CivicEducation #LeadershipPodcast #ClarkConnectionPodcast

#CivicEngagement #MiddleSchool #Louisiana

In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with legendary high school football coach and mentor Bob Becnel to unpack what real leadership looks like when pressure hits.

Coach Becnel shares his journey from a young coach finding his way to leading a championship-level program at Belle Chasse, breaking down the lessons that shaped his coaching philosophy along the way. From building a strong team culture and earning trust, to developing young men beyond the field, this conversation goes far beyond football.

You’ll hear powerful insights on mentorship, communication, organizational leadership, and resilience—especially how his team navigated adversity in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Coach Becnel also explains why winning starts with vision and buy-in, why continuous learning is non-negotiable for leaders, and how faith and values play a role in sustainable success.

Whether you’re a coach, leader, educator, entrepreneur, or someone responsible for developing people, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, culture, and impact.

Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com

or

social media @coach.a.clark

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

00:00 The Importance of Leadership and Buy-In

01:15 Theme Song

01:40 Welcome!

02:22 Sponsors

05:44 Introduction to Coach Becnel

06:21 Coaching Journey: From River Oaks to Bell Chase

11:50 Building a Winning Culture

17:57 Overcoming Adversity: The Katrina Experience

23:56 The Rivalry and Team Unity Post-Katrina

28:58 High School Football Triumphs

39:02 Lessons in Leadership and Success

42:52 The Importance of Continuous Learning

54:08 Reflections on Coaching and Mentorship

#coaching #leadership #mentorship #football #resilience #personalgrowth #teamculture #winningmindset #coachlife #developingleaders #education #community #highschoolfootball #leadershipdevelopment

In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark aka THE Coach sits down with Brian Belliveau, Chief Growth Officer at Columbia Southern University, to talk about leadership, mentorship, and long-term growth.

Brian shares his journey from military service to education leadership and the lessons he’s learned along the way about patience, ownership, and making career decisions that hold up over time. The conversation dives into why mentorship matters, how feedback accelerates growth, and why mastering the basics of leadership is essential for anyone who wants to move from good to great.

This episode is packed with practical insight for leaders, professionals, and anyone serious about personal and professional development. If you’re focused on growth, value, and becoming a better leader — this one’s for you.

Chapter List

00:00 Coming Up

01:05 Theme Song

01:29 Welcome and Sponsorship Shout outs

04:54 The Journey to Leadership

09:47 The Importance of Patience in Leadership

15:11 Learning Through Experience

20:01 The Role of Mentorship in Development

25:09 Long-Term Thinking vs. Short-Term Gains

30:41 The Journey of Mentorship and Connection

33:39 The Gift of Feedback and Personal Growth

34:36 Leadership Basics: Blocking and Tackling

36:17 Consistency Over Trends in Leadership

39:13 The Value of Mentorship in Leadership

40:08 Learning from Observations and Tough Moments

42:07 The Importance of Preparation and Learning

44:29 Ownership and Responsibility in Leadership

47:41 Recommended Reads for Leaders

52:11 Striving for Greatness Over Goodness

54:30 The Heart of Columbia Southern University

Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com

or

social media @coach.a.clark

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

In this episode, Aaron Clark engages in a deep conversation with Joey Dupont about the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of mentorship, and the balance between faith and fear in business. They explore Joey's journey from early sales experiences to navigating financial challenges, the role of education in shaping entrepreneurs, and the significance of sharing struggles with the next generation. The discussion also delves into the impact of AI on business decision-making and the necessity of cultivating raving fans to drive success.

Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com

or

social media @coach.a.clark

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

Chapters

00:00 Coming up

01:27 Theme Song & Intro

01:52 Welcome

05:21 Entrepreneurial Beginnings and Early Sales Experiences

12:50 The Journey to Entrepreneurship

25:51 Understanding Money as a Tool

30:16 Navigating Faith and Fear in Business

34:51 The Struggles of Entrepreneurs in Education

38:14 Overcoming Adversity: The Entrepreneurial Journey

41:06 The Power of Peace and Confidence in Business

43:35 Navigating Failure: Lessons for Parents and Entrepreneurs

47:59 The Importance of Sharing Struggles with Children

52:04 Embracing Change: The Role of AI in Entrepreneurship

01:00:46 Building Raving Fans: The Key to Business Success

01:06:33 Evaluating Ideas: The O Factor in Entrepreneurship

#TheClarkConnectionPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #MentorshipMatters #FaithAndBusiness #PurposeDrivenEntrepreneur #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #AIInBusiness #ModernEntrepreneur #FinancialWisdom #EntrepreneurMindset #LegacyLeadership #FamilyAndBusiness #CommunityOverCompetition #NextGenerationLeaders #ExecutionMatters #ValuesBasedLeadership #PodcastGrowth #BusinessPodcast

In this episode of the Clark Connection podcast, host Aaron Clark engages in a dynamic conversation with Andrew Reynolds, founder of Automate Integrate Professional Services. They delve into the importance of streamlining business processes through effective use of technology, particularly CRMs and dialers. Andrew emphasizes how these tools can optimize sales and improve lead response times, making them essential for small businesses looking to enhance efficiency. The discussion also touches on the concept of fractional admins, which can provide crucial support for businesses that lack the resources for full-time IT staff, ensuring that technology is leveraged effectively to drive growth.

The conversation further explores the significance of personal growth and continuous learning for leaders. Andrew shares insights from his favorite book, "The 12 Week Year," which advocates for setting micro-goals to achieve macro objectives. This philosophy encourages business owners to take actionable steps while also allowing time for reflection and improvement. The episode is packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs who want to build robust systems and foster a culture of learning within their organizations.

Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com

or

social media @coach.a.clark

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

Chapters

00:00 Coming Up

01:24 Theme Song

01:49 Welcome and Open

05:54 Introduction to Andrew

06:54 The Role of Dialers in Sales Optimization

14:06 VoIP vs. Traditional Calling: What You Need to Know

26:01 The Value of Fractional Admins for Small Businesses

31:07 Understanding Tech Needs in Small Businesses

32:38 The Importance of CRMs

34:38 Optimizing Business Processes

37:17 The Role of Automation and AI

41:21 Andrew's Journey from Pizza Shop to Tech Consultant

45:41 The 12 Week Year Philosophy

49:06 Personal Growth and Continuous Learning

55:26 Fun and Lighthearted Moments

#leadership #entrepreneurship #smallbusiness #businesssystems #processoptimization #salesoptimization #crm #dialers #voip #businesstechnology #fractionaladmin #automation #scalingbusiness #operations #businessgrowth #personaldevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #founderlife #businessowners #startupgrowth #productivity #workflow #salesprocess #communityovercompetition #continuouslearning #theclarkconnectionpodcast

Leadership isn’t about the title you hold—it’s about the influence you use.

In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Coach Aaron Clark is joined by Caitlin Michelet, co-host of the show and Director of Admissions at Delta College, for a powerful conversation on leadership development, mentorship, and personal growth.

Caitlin shares her leadership journey from college athletics and serving as a resident assistant to working in mental health and higher education administration. Together, we unpack what leadership really looks like behind the scenes—learning patience, handling responsibility, navigating feedback, and creating a positive work environment that helps people grow.

This episode is for emerging leaders, professionals, and anyone serious about developing real influence—not just chasing titles. If you’re focused on continuous learning, career growth, and becoming a better leader in your workplace and life, this conversation will resonate.

🎧 Topics covered include:

- Why mentorship is critical to leadership development

- Leadership as influence—positive or negative

- Lessons learned from college athletics and student leadership

- The mental and emotional weight leaders carry

- The importance of feedback, patience, and continuous learning

- Creating a healthy and positive work environment

⏱️ EPISODE TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – Welcome to The Clark Connection Podcast

01:05 – Fast Leadership Truth: Leadership Is Influence

03:10 – Introducing Caitlin Michelet

05:30 – Caitlin’s leadership journey and college experience

09:45 – Lessons learned from college athletics

13:40 – Serving as a resident assistant and handling conflict

18:10 – The transition from co-host to Director of Admissions

22:30 – Leadership lessons from working in mental health

27:15 – The responsibility and weight leaders carry

31:50 – Mentorship and patience in career growth

36:20 – Creating a positive and healthy work environment

41:10 – The role of feedback and learning from mistakes

45:30 – Final leadership takeaways

48:00 – Episode wrap-up and closing message

👉 Connect with Coach Aaron Clark:

Website: coachaclark.com

Email: aaron@coachaclark.com

Social Media: @coach.a.clark

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, follow, and share The Clark Connection Podcast so more leaders can grow together.

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

#Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #Mentorship #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Influence #Coaching #MentalHealthInLeadership #CareerGrowth #CollegeLeadership #HigherEducation #EmergingLeaders #ContinuousLearning #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipTraining #TheClarkConnectionPodcast

In this conversation, Aaron shares his journey from being a high school coach to becoming a leadership development expert. He discusses the importance of developing leaders, learning from mistakes, and the role of accountability in leadership. Aaron emphasizes the need for personal growth and the willingness to embrace change as essential components of effective leadership. He also highlights the significance of measuring leadership improvement and the impact of mentorship on personal and professional development.

Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com

or

social media @coach.a.clark

Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here:

https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8

Premium Sponsor:

Vicki with Hubbard Flooring Studio

Call: 225-924-1582

Website: www.hubbardflooringstudio.com

Address: 11880 Boylan Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Sponsors:

Brian with Steadfast Electric

call: 225-457-7957 or website: https://steadfastelectric.com/

Bobbie with A Comfy Quest, LLC

Call: 225-773-0307 or visit https://www.massagebook.com/biz/AComfyQuestLA9521

Andrew with Automate Integrate Professional Services

Visit: Https://automate-integrate.com or email andrew@automate-integrate.com

Dr. Robert W. Smith DC, DABCI Chiropractic Internist

Visit: https://www.brspine.com/ or Call: 225-291-2626

#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #CoachLife #LeadershipJourney #PurposeDriven #GrowthMindset #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #LeadingFromExperience #AuthenticLeadership #FaithAndLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #CoachClark #TheClarkConnection #AskTheCoach

2025 was one of the most transformational years in the history of The Clark Connection Podcast — and today’s Year-in-Review episode breaks down the biggest lessons, moments, and breakthroughs that shaped this entire year.

As we wrap up Thanksgiving weekend, I’m reflecting on the conversations, the leadership moments, the growth habits, the coaching breakthroughs, and the powerful stories that pushed me forward as a leader, coach, father, husband, and host.

In this episode, we dive into the major themes that defined 2025:

🔥 Personal Growth & Self-Leadership

The habits, mindset shifts, and book reviews that changed my daily routine — including Atomic Habits, Can’t Hurt Me, Winning the War in Your Mind, and The Traveler’s Gift. I’ll share how these books shaped my year and how they can transform yours.

🔥 Coaching, Confidence & Mindset Breakthroughs

From live coaching sessions to deep conversations about confidence, change, and legacy — these episodes sparked transformation not only in me, but in listeners across the world.

🔥 Leadership, Business & Real-World Growth

We recap powerful lessons from leaders, entrepreneurs, coaches, and everyday difference-makers who showed us what resilience, humility, and purpose-driven leadership really look like.

🔥 Purpose, Legacy & What’s Coming in 2026

Faith, calling, mentorship, community impact, and a clear vision for the future of the podcast — including new leadership series, more ATC segments, book review expansions, a new website, and brand-new coaching opportunities.

This episode is all about gratitude, growth, and gearing up for the next season of leadership. If you’re ready to reflect, refocus, and relaunch into 2026 with purpose, this Year-in-Review is for YOU.

🙌 HUGE Thank-You to Our Sponsor

A special thank-you to Vicki and Hubbard Flooring Studio for sponsoring this episode. Right now, they’re offering 24 months of 0% financing, plus 20% off rugs and a FREE bottle of cleaner when you mention Coach Clark. Support the businesses that support this show!

📢 WANT MORE CONTENT LIKE THIS?

✔ Subscribe to The Clark Connection Podcast

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🔥 If this episode helped you… don’t forget to pass it on. Someone in your circle needs this.

Let’s finish strong — and step boldly into 2026.

Ask THE Coach questionnaire:

https://forms.gle/E2Dyg9FwZeDQWahA9

#LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #YearInReview #SelfLeadership #CoachingLife #ChristianLeadership #GrowthMindset #BusinessLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #SuccessHabits #TheClarkConnectionPodcast #CoachClark #LeadershipPodcast #MotivationDaily #ConfidenceBuilding #PurposeDriven #2025Review #VisionFor2026 #BookReviews #FaithAndLeadership #ThanksgivingWeekend #LifeCoaching #InspirationForLeaders #PodcastCommunity

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