The Influence Exchange

J.V.
  • 4.9 (36)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

The Influence Exchange, hosted by J.V., is a personal growth podcast built around honest conversations, real-life experiences, and practical lessons that help you think differently, grow intentionally, and create meaningful change in your life. Through solo episodes and conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, leaders, coaches, and everyday people with powerful stories, we explore mindset, leadership, wealth, relationships, career, resilience, confidence, success, adversity, and purpose. Real conversations. Real experiences. Real growth.

  1. 1d ago

    You’re Not Behind, You Just Haven’t Started Moving Yet | Willie Blake

    Do you ever feel like you’re falling behind in life, business, or your personal goals? What if you’re not actually behind, you just haven’t started moving yet? In episode 58 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with coach, speaker, author, and entrepreneur Willie Blake for a conversation about overcoming self-doubt, breaking through overwhelm, and creating momentum through small, intentional actions. Willie shares how growing up with dyslexia shaped the way he saw himself and eventually helped him recognize the strengths that can come with thinking differently. He also discusses his work helping neurodivergent professionals and entrepreneurs move forward when big goals feel overwhelming. You’ll hear about Willie’s GPS Goal Method, Get Clear, Plan the Route, and Start Moving, as well as his 2% Rule, which focuses on taking one manageable step instead of trying to change everything at once. Willie also shares a simple strategy called “One Minute, One Thing” for those moments when even getting started feels difficult. Because sometimes the biggest obstacle isn’t how far you have to go. It’s getting yourself out of park. You’re not behind. You just need to start moving. Willie's Website: https://coachwillieblake.com/ Willie's Free ebook: https://coachwillieblake.com/freegift Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    You’re Not Behind, You Just Haven’t Started Moving Yet | Willie Blake

  2. Sep 30

    The Battle Within: Rebuilding Yourself After Life Changes You | TJ Baird

    Sometimes the hardest battle isn't the one happening around you. It's the one happening within you. In episode 57 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, author, father, and founder of Warrior Dad Stories TJ Baird for a deeply personal conversation about resilience, leadership, family, adversity, and rebuilding yourself after life changes you. After 32 years of Army life and multiple combat deployments, TJ realized he was no longer the same person he had once been. One of the defining moments in his journey came when his six-year-old daughter told him she was afraid of him. That moment helped put TJ on what he now calls his Reforged journey, not trying to become who he was before, but working toward the person he wanted to become. TJ also shares his powerful concept of the Two Warriors Within. Both warriors know your dreams, your failures, your fears, and your weaknesses because they are both part of you. Every day presents a choice: Which warrior will you feed? We discuss TJ's recovery from traumatic brain injuries, accepting help when you need it, finding purpose when you feel lost, crossing the starting line, family and brotherhood, leadership, storytelling, and the people who helped TJ rebuild along the way. TJ also opens up about his book Warrior Dad and why sharing our experiences, even the difficult ones can become a way of serving others. His final message is simple: Tell your story. Have the courage to share what you've experienced because your story may help someone else continue walking their own path TJ Website: https://www.warriordadstories.com/ TJ: The Warrior Within: https://youtu.be/Hz3U1szIJ_I?si=Li07XlRvVWTcDX3h Buy TJ Book: https://a.co/d/03IKTKAK Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    The Battle Within: Rebuilding Yourself After Life Changes You | TJ Baird

  3. Sep 25

    Small Decisions, Big Shifts: How Everyday Choices Change Your Life | Chip Scholz

    What if the biggest changes in your life don't begin with one huge moment, but with one small decision? In episode 56 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with executive coach, leadership strategist, and author Chip Scholz for a powerful conversation about personal growth, resilience, leadership, and how the choices we make every day shape who we become. After experiencing career setbacks, being laid off, surviving a life-changing stroke, and rebuilding his life, Chip gained a new perspective on what it means to live and lead with intention. He shares why lasting transformation isn't created by one dramatic breakthrough, but through the small decisions we make consistently. Chip also breaks down his Five Cs: Context, Clarity, Conditioning, Choice, and Character, a framework designed to help people understand where they are, determine what they truly want, develop the right mindset, take action, and practice personal accountability. We also explore the difference between responsibility and control, why great leaders coach rather than dictate, the dangers of micromanagement, workplace culture, business ownership, resilience, and learning when it's time to let go. Whether you're navigating a transition, leading a team, building a business, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, this conversation is a reminder that your future is being shaped by the decisions you're making today. Chip's Website: https://scholzandassociates.com/ Buy Chip Book: https://a.co/d/0j9ljNEx Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Small Decisions, Big Shifts: How Everyday Choices Change Your Life | Chip Scholz

  4. Sep 23

    How to Handle Rejection in Sales and Turn Every “No” Into Growth | Bryan Charleau

    Rejection is part of life, but in sales, hearing “no” can become part of your everyday routine. The question is: How do you stop taking rejection personally and use it to grow? In episode 55 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with sales professional and Pitching Sales author Bryan Charleau for a conversation about rejection, resilience, confidence, and what it really takes to build a successful career in sales. Bryan shares why sales professionals will often hear “no” far more than “yes,” and why learning to separate rejection from your self-worth is essential for long-term success. We also explore why you don't have to be the loudest or most outgoing person in the room to succeed in sales. Bryan explains how introverts can become exceptional sales professionals by developing skills such as active listening, understanding the customer's needs, and becoming comfortable with silence. You'll also hear why continued learning can directly affect your earning potential. A new closing technique, a better way to handle objections, or simply asking a better question could change the outcome of your very next conversation. In this episode, we discuss rejection, sales mindset, active listening, confidence, personal growth, professional development, resilience, and the lessons Bryan has learned throughout his career. Whether you work in sales, lead a team, own a business, or simply want to become better at handling rejection, this conversation is a reminder that every “no” can become an opportunity to learn, improve, and keep moving forward. Bryan Website: https://www.pitchingsalesconsulting.com/ Contact Bryan: https://www.pitchingsalesconsulting.com/contact Buy Bryan Book: https://a.co/d/08KFr85M Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    How to Handle Rejection in Sales and Turn Every “No” Into Growth | Bryan Charleau

  5. Sep 16

    Why Choosing Yourself Isn’t Selfish | Catherine Cristani

    When was the last time you truly chose yourself? In episode 54 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with Catherine Cristani for an honest conversation about relationships, loneliness, self-worth, vulnerability, emotional connection, and what it really means to put yourself first. Many of us spend years trying to meet other people's expectations, whether in relationships, careers, friendships, or family, without realizing how much of ourselves we may be losing along the way. Catherine challenges us to look inward and ask some difficult questions: What is it costing you to stay? Who are you underneath it all? What actually brings you joy? Together, J.V. and Catherine explore why people sometimes enter or remain in relationships because they're afraid of being alone, and why learning to enjoy your own company can be an important part of understanding yourself. Catherine also shares practical insights around communication and conflict, including the “power of the pause” - creating space before reacting so you can better understand what you're feeling and respond rather than simply trying to win an argument. The conversation explores vulnerability, emotional triggers, accountability, human connection, and recognizing when a relationship or situation no longer aligns with who you're becoming. And at the heart of the conversation is a simple message: It's okay to choose yourself and choosing yourself isn't selfish. Choosing yourself doesn't mean you stop caring about everyone else. Sometimes it means finally giving yourself the same respect, attention, and consideration you've been giving to everyone around you. If you've ever struggled with loneliness, lost yourself in a relationship, questioned whether putting yourself first was selfish, or wondered what you truly want from your life, this conversation is for you. The Influence Exchange features authentic conversations about personal growth, mindset, leadership, resilience, relationships, wealth, and the experiences that shape our lives. Catherine Website: https://willowhealing.org/ Buy Catherine Books: https://willowhealing.org/collection/books-and-e-books Catherine Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/willow-healing-matters-podcast/id1760975061 Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Why Choosing Yourself Isn’t Selfish | Catherine Cristani

  6. Sep 9

    You Are Enough: How to Break Free From Self-Doubt & Fear | Steve Barton

    What if the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want is the belief that you're not enough? In this episode of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with entrepreneur, executive coach, and creator of The Game of 10, Steve Barton, for a powerful conversation about self-doubt, fear, happiness, overthinking, forgiveness, and recognizing your own worth. Steve shares his journey from taking over his family's flower business at just 22 years old to growing it from approximately $200,000 to more than $2 million, and the lessons he learned about mistakes, success, and happiness along the way. You'll also hear Steve break down his Game of 10, including the simple but powerful statements: I am enough. I do enough. I have enough. Steve explains how these statements can help quiet the mental chatter, challenge limiting beliefs, and bring you back to the present moment. J.V. and Steve also explore why we're so afraid of making mistakes, where self-doubt comes from, how gratitude can shift your perspective, why forgiving yourself can sometimes be harder than forgiving others, and what it takes to stop allowing guilt and fear to control your life. If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled with confidence, overthought your decisions, or wondered whether you're doing enough, this conversation will challenge you to look at yourself differently. Steve leaves us with one simple message: “Be yourself, and that's enough.” The Influence Exchange, authentic conversations about personal growth, mindset, leadership, resilience, wealth, and the experiences that shape who we become. Steve Website: https://www.stevebartoncoaching.com/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    You Are Enough: How to Break Free From Self-Doubt & Fear | Steve Barton

  7. Sep 4

    Life Knocked Her Down Again and Again - She Refused to Quit | Sue Paulson

    What if the hardest moments of your life were actually preparing you for your greatest purpose? In episode 52 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and personal growth mentor Sue Paulson for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, self-love, overcoming adversity, and discovering the magnificence that already exists within you. Sue's journey is one of extraordinary perseverance. She has experienced, Two divorces, Two bankruptcies, Multiple failed businesses, A near-death experience, Two battles with cancer. Yet through every setback, she discovered something many people spend a lifetime searching for, Your circumstances do not define your future. In this episode, we discuss Why failure is a stepping stone to success Learning to love yourself before loving others The powerful "100 Things I Love About Myself" exercise How journaling can transform your mindset Why comparison steals confidence he difference between self-improvement and embracing your magnificence Finding hope during life's darkest seasons The lessons Sue learned through cancer and healing Why gratitude changes the way you see the world The four inner power tools every person already possesses One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation: You are far stronger than any challenge life places in front of you. Sue also shares her four "Power Tools" for overcoming adversity: Determination, Courage, Faith, Hope. Whether you're navigating loss, self-doubt, failure, illness, or simply trying to find your purpose, this conversation will remind you that your greatest strength has been within you all along. Sue's Magnificent Misery: https://draft2digital.com/book/1023929 Sue's Healing Call of Cancer: https://draft2digital.com/book/2278392  Sue's Podcast:  https://magnifywithsue.com Sue's Website: https://suepaulson.com/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Life Knocked Her Down Again and Again - She Refused to Quit | Sue Paulson

  8. Sep 2

    Success Shouldn’t Cost You Your Health: How to Beat Burnout & Lead Better | Rachael Edmondson-Clarke

    In this powerful episode 51 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with executive leadership coach, speaker, and burnout specialist Rachael Edmondson-Clarke for an honest conversation about success, burnout, leadership, resilience, and creating a life you don't have to recover from. Years ago, Rachael was doing everything she thought success required working harder, climbing the corporate ladder, and constantly proving herself. Until one day, her body made the decision for her, she collapsed in her office. That moment changed everything. Today, Rachael helps executives and business leaders increase their capacity, improve their well-being, and lead with greater purpose, confidence, and resilience. In this episode, we discuss: What burnout really looks like before it becomes dangerous Why high achievers are especially vulnerable to burnout The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration Why leaders must take care of themselves before they can lead others Building resilient teams and healthier workplace cultures The importance of appreciation and recognition in leadership Creating psychological safety within your team Why your energy influences everything around you Practical ways to restore your mental and physical capacity How small daily habits can prevent long-term burnout One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation: "When you take care of yourself first, you show up better for everyone else." Whether you're a business owner, executive, manager, entrepreneur, or someone simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of life, this episode is filled with practical leadership advice and powerful reminders that success should never come at the expense of your health. Because true leadership isn't about sacrificing yourself. It's about building the capacity to serve others without losing yourself in the process. If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Rachael website: https://www.ellevar.co.uk/ Host J.V. Episodes released weekly! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.  Follow The Influence Exchange on social media. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@theinfluenceexchange?si=GRWCJS5qhiu7aAwG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_influence_exchange?igsh=bDRzb2NwNjJyaXQ1&utm_source=qr Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_influence_exchange?_r=1&_t=ZP-91Ot1k669Nu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F2h4hbGNL/?mibextid=wwXIfr See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Success Shouldn’t Cost You Your Health: How to Beat Burnout & Lead Better | Rachael Edmondson-Clarke
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4.9
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

The Influence Exchange, hosted by J.V., is a personal growth podcast built around honest conversations, real-life experiences, and practical lessons that help you think differently, grow intentionally, and create meaningful change in your life. Through solo episodes and conversations with entrepreneurs, authors, leaders, coaches, and everyday people with powerful stories, we explore mindset, leadership, wealth, relationships, career, resilience, confidence, success, adversity, and purpose. Real conversations. Real experiences. Real growth.

Information

  • Creator
    J.V.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © © 2026 The Influence Exchange
  • Show Website
    The Influence Exchange

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