What's Important To You?

James Dean
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What’s Important to You? is a podcast about purpose, passion, and the things that truly matter. Each week, I speak with inspiring guests from all walks of life and ask one powerful question: “What’s important to you?” Their stories will spark reflection, fuel your goals, and remind you what really matters. Brought to you by James Dean Coaching — helping driven humans master mindset and live with purpose. 🎯 Learn more or book a free call at https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

  1. #131 What’s Important To Alfredo Borodowski – From Fixing to Flourishing in Times of Disruption

    20H AGO

    #131 What’s Important To Alfredo Borodowski – From Fixing to Flourishing in Times of Disruption

    In this powerful and deeply reflective conversation, I am joined by Alfredo Borodowski to explore what it truly means to flourish as a leader, as a team, and as a human being, especially in times of disruption. Alfredo introduces the principles of positive psychology and explains why so many people remain unaware of their strengths, despite the evidence showing that knowing and using them dramatically increases wellbeing and performance. Together, we explore the difference between a culture of fixing and a culture of nourishing, and why purpose, health, and psychological safety are foundational for sustainable success. Alfredo shares his own journey through adversity, including mental health challenges and loss, and how those experiences shaped his empathy, authenticity, and approach to leadership. This episode is an invitation to move beyond survival mode, reconnect with what’s strongest within you, and lead with clarity, compassion, and purpose. 💡 Key TakeawaysMost people don’t know their strengths and that limits flourishingStrengths awareness increases wellbeing and engagementWe often try to fix instead of nourish people and culturesFlourishing comes from aligning strengths, purpose, and actionHealth is the foundation for everything elsePsychological safety is essential for high-performing teamsAI must support, not replace, the human elementFulfilment comes from giving your best in service to others ⏱️ Chapters00:00 Positive Psychology & Strengths02:59 Why Knowing Your Strengths Matters08:49 Leadership Through a Strengths Lens12:02 Flourishing vs. Fixing15:24 AI, Leadership & Humanity19:23 Psychological Capital at Work22:28 Alfredo’s Personal Journey31:09 Strengths in Action35:05 Psychological Safety in Teams41:35 Building Your Ark51:20 Health as the Foundation 👤 About the GuestAlfredo Borodowski helps leaders and organizations achieve peak performance during disruption. He is the creator of the framework Positivity + Purpose = Peak Performance, designed to transform stress into resilience and uncertainty into growth. With a Ph.D. in Philosophy, an MSW in Clinical Therapy, and certifications in Positive Psychology and Executive Coaching, Alfredo has worked with CEOs, law firms, multinational organizations, and nonprofits for over 30 years. His work blends science, strategy, and lived experienc, including his own journey through mental health challenges and loss, to help leaders lead with clarity, empathy, and humanity in the AI era. 🤝 Connect with Alfredo👉 LinkedIn👉 Website 🌍 Stay Connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in Coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. 👉 Book a free Clarity Call here:https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    55 min
  2. #130 What’s Important To Jill Macauley – Self-Awareness, Leadership & the Ripple Effect of Impact

    FEB 19

    #130 What’s Important To Jill Macauley – Self-Awareness, Leadership & the Ripple Effect of Impact

    In this thoughtful and deeply human conversation, Jill Macauley explores why self-awareness is one of the most important and most overlooked skills in leadership and life. Drawing on her work as COO of Behavioral Essentials and her background in leadership development, Jill explains how awareness begins with understanding who we are across identity, values, emotions, and behaviour. Using the metaphor of “blind spots,” she highlights the gap between intent and impact, and why curiosity and empathy are essential for meaningful growth. Jill reminds us that awareness isn’t about judgment or perfection, but about reflection, compassion, and choosing to grow. 💡 Key TakeawaysSelf-awareness starts with understanding yourselfLeadership impact matters more than leadership intentBlind spots exist for everyone, curiosity helps reveal themAwareness creates a ripple effect across teams and relationshipsYounger generations expect emotionally intelligent leadershipEmpathy for self is essential before empathy for othersAwareness is a lifelong journey, not a destination🗣️ In Their Words“Awareness is understanding who you are.”“Greater understanding dissolves conflict.”“The hard work is the joyful work.” ⏱️ Chapters00:00 Why Awareness Matters01:20 Defining Self-Awareness03:40 Jill’s Leadership Journey08:39 Identity, Values & Behavior15:06 Ego, Vulnerability & Impact28:26 Awareness in Organizations38:23 Generational Shifts at Work47:08 Understanding Blind Spots59:06 Leadership Responsibility01:02:41 The Ripple Effect of Awareness 👤 About Jill MacauleyJill Macauley is the Chief Operating Officer at Behavioral Essentials, a workforce development firm dedicated to improving business results through deeper self-awareness and understanding. With a background in business consulting and leadership development, Jill is passionate about reducing unnecessary workplace suffering and helping individuals and organizations thrive. Jill’s work focuses on cultivating healthier leadership practices grounded in empathy, awareness, and accountability. 🤝 Connect with Jill👉 LinkedIn👉 Website Learn more about your own blindspots at www.blindspotting.com and take Behaviour Essentials Blindspotting Assessment™ for free with the following promo code: SPOTJAMESDEAN. 🌍 Stay Connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in Coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. 👉 Book a free Clarity Call here:https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    1h 32m
  3. #129 What’s Important To Scott Kelly – Entrepreneurship, Sales & Building What Lasts

    FEB 12

    #129 What’s Important To Scott Kelly – Entrepreneurship, Sales & Building What Lasts

    In this engaging conversation, Scott Kelly shares lessons from more than 30 years working on both sides of the startup world as an entrepreneur and as an investor. As CEO of Black Dog Venture Partners and founder of VC Fast Pitch, Scott has helped raise billions for early-stage companies while supporting founders through the realities of growth, failure, and scale. Scott speaks candidly about why most startups fail, the grind of entrepreneurship, and why resilience and execution matter more than ideas alone. He highlights sales as a “lost art” in today’s digital world and explains why strong relationships remain the foundation of sustainable business success. The conversation also explores the evolving role of technology and AI in entrepreneurship. Scott shares how AI is transforming industries while emphasizing that human connection, humility, and solving real problems must remain central. He reflects on legacy, balance, and redefining success beyond financial metrics, encouraging founders to build businesses and lives that feel meaningful as well as successful. 💡 Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurship is a long game that requires resilienceAround 90% of startups fail in their early yearsSales and relationship-building are still critical skillsExecution matters more than ideas aloneAI is a powerful tool, but human connection still winsInvestors back people, not just productsStrong teams are essential for scaling innovationSuccess takes many forms, beyond money🗣️ In Their Words“Running a startup is just a grind.”“Sales is a lost art.”“Success takes many forms.” ⏱️ Chapters00:00 Scott’s Journey from Founder to Investor01:12 The Reality of Startup Failure03:58 Why Sales Still Matters09:44 Relationships as a Growth Strategy11:38 Venture Capital Realities15:05 Investment Returns & Risk19:26 AI’s Impact on Entrepreneurship24:50 Helping Startups Scale30:18 Building, Exiting & Starting Again35:10 Technology vs Human Roles44:34 Defining Success Beyond Business56:19 Legacy & Paying It Forward 🤝 Connect with Scott👉 Website👉 LinkedIn 🌍 Stay Connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in Coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. 👉 Book a free Clarity Call:https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    58 min
  4. #128 What’s Important To Nancy Griffin – Health, Wealth & Legacy for Accomplished Women

    FEB 5

    #128 What’s Important To Nancy Griffin – Health, Wealth & Legacy for Accomplished Women

    In this thoughtful conversation, Jill Macauley explores the transformative power of self-awareness in leadership, work, and life. Drawing on her experience in workforce development and leadership consulting, Jill explains how awareness begins with understanding who we are, our identity, values, emotions, and behaviours and how that awareness ripples outward to influence teams and culture. Jill introduces the idea of “blind spots” to show how leaders often miss the unintended impact of their actions, even with good intentions. She highlights how increased self-awareness can reduce conflict, strengthen relationships, and create healthier, more human workplaces. The conversation also touches on generational shifts in expectations at work, empathy as a leadership skill, and why awareness is a lifelong journey rather than a destination. Key Themes & TakeawaysSelf-awareness is the foundation of effective leadershipAwareness starts with self and ripples out to othersBlind spots shape impact, not intentGreater understanding can dissolve conflictEmpathy for self is essential before empathy for othersYounger generations expect more emotionally intelligent leadershipAwareness is an ongoing, evolving practice Memorable Quotes“Live your life and love your life.”“Keep going and figure things out.”“You only live once, so make it count.” Episode Chapters00:00 Why Awareness Matters01:20 Defining Self-Awareness03:40 Jill’s Journey into Leadership & Awareness08:39 Identity, Values & Behaviour15:06 Ego, Vulnerability & Impact28:26 Awareness in Organisational Culture38:23 Generational Shifts at Work47:08 Blind Spots Explained50:56 Empathy & Self-Reflection59:06 Leadership Responsibility & Culture01:09:23 Challenging Assumptions & Growth01:16:41 Awareness as a Lifelong Journey About Today’s GuestNancy Griffin is a Legacy Advisor to Accomplished Women and the Founder of the trademarked program Women, Worth & Wellness. With over 25 years of experience in wealth management, philanthropy, and community leadership, Nancy champions women’s health, wealth, self-worth, and legacy planning. Her mission is to empower women to steward wealth with intention, generosity, and confidence, creating impact that lasts for generations. Connect with Nancy Griffin👉 LinkedIn👉 Website👉 Instagram Stay Connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in Coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. 👉 Book a free Clarity Call here:https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    56 min
  5. #127 What’s Important To Juan Lee – Love as a Mindset, Connection & Purpose

    JAN 29

    #127 What’s Important To Juan Lee – Love as a Mindset, Connection & Purpose

    n this thoughtful and deeply human conversation, Juan Lee explores the idea of love not as an emotion, but as a mindset ,one that can guide how we live, lead, and connect with others. Drawing on his military experience and personal journey, Juan shares how love in action has shaped his understanding of resilience, interdependence, and purpose. We discuss the seven attitudes of love, the importance of community, and why comparison can quietly erode our sense of self. Juan also reflects on the impact of technology and AI on humanity, reminding us that progress should never come at the cost of compassion. This episode invites listeners to rethink love as a daily practice, one rooted in humility, service, gratitude, and a commitment to preserving what makes us human. Key Themes / TopicsLove as a mindset rather than an emotionThe seven attitudes of loveMilitary experience and love in actionInterdependence and communitySelf-discovery and personal growthOvercoming comparison and embracing uniquenessTechnology, AI, and human connectionPurpose, service, and contributionEmpowering future generations In Their Words“Love is in action, not just words.”“Comparison devalues your uniqueness.”“Love never fails; align with it.” About the GuestJuan Lee is a speaker, mentor, and advocate for leading with love as a mindset. Drawing from his military background and personal experiences, he helps individuals and communities reconnect with purpose, compassion, and interdependence in an increasingly complex and digital world. Chapters00:00 Love as a Way of Living05:56 Military Lessons and Love in Action08:51 The Seven Attitudes of Love11:44 Interdependence and Community17:28 Making Love Practical20:36 Turning Pain into Purpose33:20 Reclaiming Human Impact36:46 Uniqueness, Comparison, and Self-Worth39:08 Technology, AI, and Humanity42:07 Empowering the Next Generation49:01 Love as a Tool to Protect Humanity58:51 Living with Love and Purpose Connect with Juan Lee👉 LinkedIn👉 Website Stay connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. Book a free Clarity Call here:👉 https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    1h 8m
  6. #126 What’s Important To Serafima Briuchoveckienė – Resilience, Mindset & Financial Independence

    JAN 22

    #126 What’s Important To Serafima Briuchoveckienė – Resilience, Mindset & Financial Independence

    In this powerful and honest conversation, Serafima Briuchoveckienė shares her story of resilience through immigration, financial uncertainty, and personal challenge. Her journey is a reminder that adversity, while difficult, can become a catalyst for growth, strength, and empowerment. We explore the role of mindset and gratitude in navigating hard times, and why financial independence is such an important foundation for confidence and choice, particularly for women. Serafima reflects on the influence of her mother, the importance of recognising your own skills, and how investing in yourself can open unexpected doors. This episode is about pushing forward when life feels uncertain, trusting your abilities, and choosing to build a future rooted in resilience, awareness, and self-belief. Key Themes / TopicsResilience as a life skillImmigration, adaptation, and starting againOvercoming adversity through mindsetFinancial independence and empowermentGratitude as a perspective shiftRecognising and valuing your skillsInvesting in yourself for long-term securitySupport systems and personal growthEmpowering women through coaching and planning In Their Words“You are our only hope out of this poverty.”“You can convert your skills into a business.”“We will be fine, I have no doubt.” About the GuestSerafima Briuchoveckienė is a coach and mentor who supports women in building resilience, financial independence, and confidence. Drawing on her own lived experience of immigration and overcoming adversity, she helps others recognise their skills, shift their mindset, and create more secure and fulfilling lives. Chapters00:00 Resilience and Life’s Challenges07:16 Immigration and Starting Over15:25 From Struggle to Stability25:05 Transitioning into Coaching31:24 Financial Independence for Women35:30 Lessons from Adversity40:32 Mindset, Planning, and Security45:29 Gratitude and Self-Acceptance51:30 Recognising Your Skills57:21 Family Influence and Resilience59:11 Looking Ahead with Confidence Connect with Serafima Briuchoveckienė👉 LinkedIn👉 Website👉 Instagram Stay connected with James Dean👉 Website👉 LinkedIn 👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you. Book a free Clarity Call here:👉 https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    1h 2m
  7. #125 What’s Important To Aumatma Simmons – Fertility, Women’s Health & Living in Alignment

    JAN 15

    #125 What’s Important To Aumatma Simmons – Fertility, Women’s Health & Living in Alignment

    In this insightful conversation, we explore fertility, women’s health, and the lifestyle factors that influence our ability to conceive and thrive. Dr. Aumatma shares her journey into fertility work and her mission to help women and couples conceive without drugs or invasive medical interventions. We discuss why infertility should be viewed as a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and how inflammation, stress, environmental toxins, and modern lifestyle habits can signal the body to shut down reproduction. The conversation highlights the importance of sleep, nutrition, hydration, consistency, and exercise for both women and men. Dr. Aumatma also explains the role of the microbiome, declining testosterone levels, and why sustainable lifestyle changes are key to hormonal balance, fertility, and long-term health. This episode reframes fertility as a reflection of overall vitality and encourages listeners to listen more closely to their bodies and respond with informed, compassionate action. Key Themes / TopicsFertility as a reflection of overall healthInfertility as a symptom, not a diagnosisInflammation, stress, and reproductive healthMen’s health and declining testosteroneNutrition, hydration, and hormone balanceSleep, consistency, and safety signalsExercise and strength training for fertilityThe microbiome and reproductive healthLifestyle changes for sustainable wellbeingIn Aumatma's Words“Infertility is not a diagnosis, it’s a symptom.”“Consistency informs safety.”“No fasting for women.”About the GuestDr. Aumatma Simmons is a double board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist and integrative fertility expert. She supports women and couples worldwide using holistic, lifestyle-based approaches that address root causes and empower long-term health and fertility. Chapters00:00 Fertility, Motherhood & Purpose05:42 Conventional vs Unconventional Approaches11:51 Inflammation, Stress & Survival Mode17:50 Men’s Health & Testosterone23:47 Practical Lifestyle Changes34:10 Sleep, Consistency & Hormones47:43 Exercise & Hormonal Balance51:44 The Microbiome & Fertility01:11:21 The Journey to Parenthood Connect with Dr. Aumatma Simmons👉 LinkedIn 👉 Website👉 Instagram Stay connected with James Dean👉 LinkedIn 👉 Website👉 Instagram 🎯 Interested in coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, & purpose, I’d love to support you.👉 https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    1h 24m
  8. # 124 What’s Important To Rhonda Farrah – Self-Worth, Forgiveness & Living Beyond Default Mode

    JAN 8

    # 124 What’s Important To Rhonda Farrah – Self-Worth, Forgiveness & Living Beyond Default Mode

    In this reflective and empowering conversation, we explore what it means to truly remember your self-worth and live life with intention rather than on autopilot. This episode dives into self-care, forgiveness, gratitude, and the role of the subconscious mind in shaping our daily decisions. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with who you really are, beneath conditioning, expectations, and survival patterns. A powerful reminder that healing, growth, and empowerment begin from within. If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected, or caught in “default mode,” this conversation offers space, perspective, and encouragement to take inspired action toward a more aligned and fulfilling life. Key Themes / TopicsSelf-worth and remembering your wholenessLiving intentionally vs living on autopilotThe subconscious mind and default patternsSelf-care as an essential practiceForgiveness and emotional healingGratitude as a tool for empowermentLanguage, mindset, and self-perceptionFinding meaning and gifts in adversityIn Their Words“Living in default mode can lead to stagnation in life.”“You are whole, perfect, and complete just the way you are.”“The Ice Cream Philosophy: Enjoy life before it melts.”About the GuestRhonda Farrah is a LIFEstyle Empowerment Alchemist, author, speaker, and spiritual teacher. She supports individuals in reconnecting with their self-worth, healing through reflection, and living with greater intention. Her work blends mindset, forgiveness, gratitude, and inspired action to help people remember who they truly are and step into empowered living. Chapters00:00 Self-Worth and Remembering Who You Are02:57 Living Beyond Default Mode06:05 The Power of Inner Reflection09:01 Navigating Life’s Challenges11:59 Finding Actionable Steps14:58 Transformative Life Experiences18:01 The Journey of Healing21:01 The Role of Language in Self-Perception24:33 Embracing Faith and Service34:58 The Power of Conversations37:53 Letting Go and Embracing Faith39:37 Living in the Moment43:06 The Role of Fear and Self-Reflection47:19 The Importance of Forgiveness52:30 Finding Joy in Life01:03:11 Influences and Inspirations01:06:14 Future Aspirations and Community Support Connect with Rhonda Farrah👉 LinkedIn👉 Website Stay connected with James Dean👉 Website: https://jamesdeancoach.com/👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdeancoaching/👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdeancoaching/👉 Podcast: https://whatsimportanttoyou.captivate.fm/ 🎯 Interested in coaching?If you’re ready to reconnect with what matters most and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, I’d love to support you.Book a free Clarity Call here: https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

    58 min
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About

What’s Important to You? is a podcast about purpose, passion, and the things that truly matter. Each week, I speak with inspiring guests from all walks of life and ask one powerful question: “What’s important to you?” Their stories will spark reflection, fuel your goals, and remind you what really matters. Brought to you by James Dean Coaching — helping driven humans master mindset and live with purpose. 🎯 Learn more or book a free call at https://tidycal.com/jamesdeancoaching/clarity-call

Information

  • Creator
    James Dean
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    132
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 James Dean
  • Show Website
    What's Important To You?