Reflecting on a year filled with learning and unforgettable connections, I, Dr. Latasha Nelson, am wrapping up the Thanks for Coming Back podcast with immense gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. This journey has introduced me to extraordinary guests who have generously shared their wisdom, leaving indelible marks not just on me but on our entire community of listeners. Your support and encouragement have been the lifeblood of this podcast, fueling our explorations of big ideas and uplifting stories. Each shared moment stands as a testament to the profound power of connection and learning, reminding us just how far a positive impact can ripple.

As we close this chapter, I'm thrilled to embark on a new venture next year. Check out my YouTube channel, Learning Leader Lab, for more details in 2025. This new project will draw from my 20-plus years of experience to support Learning and Development professionals in growing their influence and creating lasting impact. Join me in this upcoming adventure by following me on LinkedIn and subscribing to the channel for updates. Until we meet again in this new space, I encourage everyone to continue learning and leading from wherever you are, knowing you have the tools to make a significant impact. Thank you for being part of this incredible ride, and here's to new beginnings!

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Cheryl Mason, the groundbreaking first woman and military spouse to chair the Board of Veterans Appeals, joins us to share her remarkable journey of resilience and leadership. Having faced personal tragedy early in life, Cheryl's incredible story is fueled by her mother's determination and her own unyielding commitment to service. From her experiences in law school to her work abroad in Germany, Cheryl's path is a powerful testament to defying traditional career expectations and leading with empathy and innovation in the Veterans Affairs system.

We unravel the concept of the "invisible leader" and its impact on workplace dynamics, highlighting the importance of genuine connection and authentic engagement. Discover how small yet meaningful interactions can bridge gaps, foster trust, and empower employees to contribute their unique perspectives. Through Cheryl's insights, we explore the profound influence that valuing individual contributions has on strengthening organizational relationships and effectiveness, painting a vivid picture of what it means to lead with a fierce heart.

Looking towards the future, Cheryl shares her plans for Catalyst Leadership Management's exciting initiatives, including the CARVE program, which aims to equip leaders with essential tools like courage, agility, resilience, vulnerability, and empathy. The episode also touches on Cheryl's forthcoming newsletter and her book, "Dare to Relate: Leading with a Fierce Heart," which are set to inspire and guide aspiring leaders. Join us for a conversation that is sure to inspire, as Cheryl's dedication to adaptability and support shines through in her ongoing mission to inspire others to lead with compassion and purpose.

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It’s Dr. Latasha Nelson's favorite time of year—a season of reflection and planning for what’s ahead. Join her as she shares some of the biggest moments from her past year and the lessons that came with them. From stepping into new roles to taking risks she almost talked herself out of, it’s been a journey of bold moves and surprising growth.

In this episode, Dr. Nelson opens up about the experience of pushing past self-doubt, setting better boundaries, and learning how to balance passion projects with personal commitments. She hopes these reflections inspire you to go for what you want and challenge yourself to make decisions that truly serve your growth.

As we wrap up this year, Dr. Nelson encourages you to reflect, set bold goals, and find ways to grow that align with your values and dreams. Connect with her on LinkedIn or social media to share your wins, your lessons, and what you’re planning for the year ahead. Let’s make 2025 a year of impact and intention!

Tune in and remember to keep learning and leading from where you are.

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What happens when someone's impressive credentials fall short of showing the character and integrity we expect from true leaders? I'm Dr. Latasha Nelson, and in this episode of 'Thanks for Coming Back,' we look into the essential differences between character, reputation, and integrity, and how they impact our lives both personally and professionally. This discussion will challenge what you think you know about influence, showing that true leadership isn't just about titles or accolades—it's built on authenticity and consistent actions that reflect your values.

We'll explore a few of the myths that often link achievements directly with integrity. We'll also look into why relying only on a reputation, which can be based on misunderstandings or incomplete information, doesn't tell the whole story of a person's character. It's really about 'how' things are done, not just 'what' is achieved.

If you're looking to grow as a person of influence and want to leave a legacy that matters, consider joining our special complimentary training on, 'Becoming a Person of Influence.' Send us an email at info@learningleaderlab.com to learn more. Remember, our goal is to make a real difference, not just noise. Let's keep leading with heart and striving to excel right where we are.

📢 Request your FREE 'Becoming a Person of Influence' training! Simply email info@learningleaderlab.com

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In a world where 87% of professionals have experienced toxic leadership, the stakes for healthy leadership have never been higher. Join Dr. Latasha Nelson on "Thanks for Coming Back" as we explore how toxic bosses impact both team well-being and company performance.

Drawing from several studies and John Maxwell’s principles on influence, Dr. Nelson unravels the costly tolls of poor leadership and contrasts these with the profound benefits of a positive leadership approach. Discover actionable strategies to transform toxic behaviors and foster environments where trust, growth, and effective communication thrive, boosting job satisfaction and organizational health.

For those eager to dive deeper, Dr. Nelson offers complimentary training based on John Maxwell's "Becoming a Person of Influence." To learn more and join, email info@learningleaderlab.com. Tune in to transform leadership from a liability to a beacon of influence in your workplace.

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Growing up as a Black man in central Pennsylvania, Ben Grimes shares a deeply moving story of resilience, navigating life with a single mother and overcoming the challenges of losing a father to addiction. From these humble beginnings to graduating from West Point, Ben’s journey is a testament to the power of optimism and embracing the unknown. His story reminds us all that potential often lies within our struggles, offering powerful insights into how our past experiences shape us into leaders.

In this episode, we dive deep into true leadership beyond titles, focusing on trust, vulnerability, and the power of informal authority. Drawing on his experience as a helicopter platoon leader in the Army and examples like President Obama, Ben discusses the value of admitting limitations and building genuine connections. He emphasizes that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but about fostering collaboration and creating environments where everyone’s contributions matter.

We also explore the foundational role of trust and transparency in leadership, with Ben sharing practical advice on leading with empathy and authenticity. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of organizational hierarchies or aspiring to step into a leadership role, this episode offers tangible strategies for extending trust and leading through fear and uncertainty. Ben’s insights will inspire you to embrace your own journey, draw confidence from your unique background, and recognize that your experiences have already prepared you for the challenges ahead. Packed with lessons on personal growth, boundary-setting, and leadership, this episode is a must-listen for anyone on their leadership path.

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Join us for an enlightening and entertaining conversation with Dr. Danny Brassell, affectionately known as the "Jim Carrey with a PhD." Danny shares his incredible transformation from an inner-city teacher to a globally sought-after speaker and coach. Throughout the episode, listeners will uncover practical tips on mastering communication skills to become influential leaders, even for those who dread public speaking. Danny's journey from overcoming a childhood stutter to addressing thousands is testament to the power of belief, persistence, and high expectations.

Through captivating stories, Danny illustrates how true leadership shines when the focus shifts to making others feel valued and important. Drawing on historical examples, such as Prime Ministers Gladstone and Disraeli, and personal experiences, he highlights the often-overlooked leadership skills of avid reading and effective speaking. Discover how individuals from various fields—from military to entertainment—have harnessed these skills for success, and why executing knowledge is more impactful than merely acquiring it.

Fear of speaking in public? Danny shares actionable strategies to conquer stage fright and emphasizes the power of storytelling in leadership. Learn from the inspiring stories of Danny's clients who turned initial discomfort into remarkable success. Danny also sheds light on the importance of diverse reading habits for both personal and professional growth, offering advice on inspiring anyone to love reading. With an infectious passion for helping others, Danny advocates for service over selling, encouraging listeners to focus on serving others to build meaningful connections. Don’t miss out on this vibrant discussion filled with wisdom and positivity!

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Is corporate America stuck in a leadership rut? With over 75% of Americans perceiving a leadership crisis, there's never been a more critical time to reassess who’s at the helm. Join me, Dr. Latasha Nelson, as we dissect this hot-button issue in Thanks for Coming Back. Inspired by a recent US News and Harris Poll survey and the timeless wisdom of John Maxwell, we'll explore the impact of older business leaders clinging to power and what it's doing to the innovation and diversity necessary for today's companies.

Drawing on Maxwell's core principle that leadership is about influence, this episode provides actionable steps for both aspiring and current leaders. We'll talk about the importance of taking initiative, demonstrating integrity, and inspiring others without waiting for a formal title. For those already in leadership roles, we'll discuss the necessity of passing the torch, fostering innovation, and leading with humility. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion packed with insights on continuous learning, building authentic relationships, and seeking mentorship to thrive in today’s dynamic corporate landscape. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills or cultivate the next wave of leaders, this episode is a must-listen.

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