Amplify Speakers Podcast

Chris Sund
  • 4.0 (10)
  • Entrepreneurship

Amplify Speakers Podcast features conversations with elite speakers, leaders, athletes, authors, and change-makers who know what it takes to perform at a high level and create real impact. Each episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore mindset, leadership, resilience, and the moments that shaped their journey. Hosted by Chris Sund of Amplify Speakers, this podcast spotlights voices that challenge thinking, inspire action, and help listeners elevate how they lead, communicate, and show up.

  1. Why Not? - The Key to Unlocking Your Potential

    3d ago

    Why Not? - The Key to Unlocking Your Potential

    Why Not? - The Key to Unlocking Your Potential Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews  Ryan Lavarnway. He shares his journey from a Major League Baseball player to a leadership speaker, emphasizing resilience, embracing failure, and the power of asking 'Why not?' to unlock potential.   Takeaways ·       Resilience in sports and life ·       The importance of failure as a learning tool ·       The 'Why not?' mindset for overcoming self-doubt ·       Leadership lessons from baseball and business ·       The role of confidence and action in success ·       Failure is a necessary step on the journey to success. ·       The 'Why not?' question opens doors to new possibilities. ·       Action creates evidence and confidence. ·       Focus on your strengths and build them strong. ·       Embrace the hard moments and learn from them.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Lavarnway's Journey 02:16 Transitioning from Player to Coach 05:04 Lessons Learned from Adversity 08:28 Navigating Change and Setbacks 12:50 Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone 15:10 The Power of Action and Mindset 19:55 Discovering a New Path in Speaking 22:01 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear 24:17 The Importance of Small Wins 29:30 The 'Why Not' Mindset 32:35 Conclusion and Call to Action   Quotes "Action is what creates evidence to give you confidence." "Never let the fear of striking out stop you from playing the game." "Why not gives you permission to explore possibility."   Links Ryan Lavarnway’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/ryan-lavarnway/   Ryan Lavarnway’s Website: https://ryanlavarnway.com/   Ryan Lavarnway’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-lavarnway/

    34 min
  2. The Spirit of TA DA: When Work Becomes Play

    Jun 22

    The Spirit of TA DA: When Work Becomes Play

    The Spirit of TA DA: When Work Becomes Play Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Joel Zeff. He shares his journey from improv comedy to becoming a renowned keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of celebration, ownership, and positive support in leadership and teamwork. Discover practical strategies to foster engagement and create a thriving workplace culture. Takeaways Joel Zeff's journey from improv to keynote speakerThe importance of celebration and positive support in teamsHow ownership drives engagement and successThe role of fun and joy in workplace culturePractical strategies for leaders to motivate teamsCelebrating small wins daily fuels passion and engagement.Ownership and positive support are essential for team success.Fun and joy are vital components of a thriving workplace.Improv teaches valuable lessons about teamwork and adaptability.Leaders should ask, 'How do I help my team succeed?' Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joel Zeff and His Journey 03:11 The Evolution of Improv and Speaking Career 05:56 The Power of Improv in Business 08:54 Celebrating Success: The Ta-Da Philosophy 11:52 Finding Joy and Fun in Work 20:49 Creating Ownership and Passion in Teams 25:30 The Power of Ownership in Team Success 27:57 The Importance of Positive Support 30:00 Helping Others Find Success 30:59 Insights from a Diverse Career 35:01 Stories from the Stage 42:57 Wrapping Up with Key Takeaways Quotes  "Celebrate the small ta-dub moments every day" "Opportunity creates joy and fun in work" "Ask, how do I help my team find success?" Links Joel Zeff’s Profile:  https://amplifyspeakers.com/joel-zeff/ Joel Zeff’s Website:  https://www.joelzeff.com/ Joel Zeff’s LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/ Joel Zeff’s Book:  https://www.joelzeff.com/book

    45 min
  3. Choose Your Attitude, Create Your Life

    Jun 15

    Choose Your Attitude, Create Your Life

    Choose Your Attitude, Create Your Life   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Nick Strand. He shares his incredible journey from touring with legendary artists to building resilience through personal adversity. Discover his impactful framework 'Attitude + Action = Impact' and learn how to overcome challenges, foster human connection, and live with purpose.   Takeaways ·       Resilience and overcoming adversity ·       The 'Attitude + Action = Impact' framework ·       The power of human connection in personal and professional life ·       Attitude + Action = Impact ·       Five Attributes of Success: Connection, Authenticity, Consistency, Self-Empowerment, Urgency of Time   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Strand's Journey 02:49 The Thrill of Touring and Human Connection 05:46 Memorable Experiences in Live Events 08:45 The Impact of Personal Adversity 12:13 Transitioning to Speaking and Sharing Lessons 15:03 Finding Purpose Through Pain 17:51 The Power of Attitude and Resilience 30:18 Turning Adversity into Purpose 31:10 The Framework of Attitude, Action, and Impact 40:11 The Power of Community and Connection 44:12 Attributes of Transformation 51:52 Applying Lessons in Business and Life   Quotes "Choose your attitude, create your life." "Lizzo understood human connection." "She was told she would die by 13."   Links Nick Strand’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/nick-strand/   Nick Strand’s Website: https://www.thenickstrand.com/speaking   Nick Strand’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenickstrand/   Nick Strand’s Book: https://a.co/d/0hd1fWp8

    56 min
  4. Life Undeferred: The Identity Shift That Changes Everything

    Jun 8

    Life Undeferred: The Identity Shift That Changes Everything

    Life Undeferred: The Identity Shift That Changes Everything   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Jerrid Sebesta. He shares his transformative journey from meteorology to high-performance coaching. Discover how internal shifts, belief rewiring, and surrender can unlock greater peace, happiness, and success.   Takeaways ·       The shift from meteorology to coaching and personal development ·       The importance of internal beliefs and programming ·       How to increase capacity for receiving and success   Chapters 00:00 From Meteorology to Transformation Coaching 03:00 The Pressure of Live Broadcasting 06:05 Discovering Passion and Purpose 11:47 Awakening to a New Path 16:02 Increasing Capacity for Success 21:59 Foundational Truths for Personal Growth 25:56 Reprogramming the Subconscious Mind 27:21 Reigniting Desire for Success 29:15 Rewiring Beliefs and Self-Worth 37:44 The Power of Surrender and Detachment 41:32 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities   Quotes "Life is a reflection of your programming." "Your main reason here is to receive." "Peace is a byproduct of inner shifts."   Links Jerrid Sebesta’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/jerrid-sebesta/   Jerrid Sebesta’s Website: https://www.jerridsebesta.com/   Jerrid Sebesta’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerridsebesta/   Jerrid Sebesta’s Book: https://a.co/d/0eU3Kuw3

    54 min
  5. The Vibe: Why Culture Beats Strategy Every Time

    Jun 2

    The Vibe: Why Culture Beats Strategy Every Time

    The Vibe: Why Culture Beats Strategy Every Time   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Kelly Cardenas. He shares his journey from business owner to influential speaker, emphasizing the importance of culture, vibe, and authentic communication in creating successful organizations and impactful experiences. Discover practical strategies to enhance team engagement, build culture, and deliver memorable live events.   Takeaways ·       The importance of culture and vibe in business ·       Reverse engineering business success through culture ·       The role of communication in leadership and culture ·       Creating memorable live experiences with The Vibe Room ·       The ripple effect of speaking life into people ·       Culture is an environment suitable for growth, not static. ·       The vibe is about how people feel when you leave, not just energy. ·       Authentic communication involves understanding the language of others. ·       Creating experiences like The Vibe Room can transform lives and businesses. ·       Speaking life and recognizing unsung heroes boosts morale and performance.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Cardenas 02:20 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:50 Understanding the Vibe 12:02 Defining Culture in Business 15:24 Communication and Culture 20:15 Speaking Life into Employees 27:32 The Ripple Effect of Positive Culture 30:10 The Importance of Being Seen and Heard 31:53 Creating a Culture of Value 33:01 Introducing the Vibroom Experience 40:09 The Magic of Connection at the Vibroom 41:59 Building Your Own Stage 45:18 Expanding the Vibroom Experience 48:23 The Ripple Effect of Impactful Experiences   Quotes "Most challenges come down to communication." "Love the people, manage the system." "Leave every place better than you found it."   Links Kelly Cardenas’ Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/kelly-cardenas/   Kelly Cardenas’ Website: https://www.kellycardenas.com/   Kelly Cardenas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-cardenas/   Kelly Cardenas’ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Vibe-Missing-Ingredient-Changes-Everything-ebook/dp/B0CKNV93XR

    56 min
  6. Unmuted: Overcome Fear and Embrace Your Voice

    May 18

    Unmuted: Overcome Fear and Embrace Your Voice

    Unmuted: Overcome Fear and Embrace Your Voice   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Rachel Druckenmiller. She shares her journey from burnout to boldness, including her incredible experience singing the national anthem at Camden Yards and her insights on overcoming fear, building confidence, and living a life that makes you feel alive.   Takeaways ·       Rachel's journey from corporate burnout to full-time speaker ·       The transformative power of visualization and self-belief ·       Overcoming fear and stepping into big opportunities ·       The importance of physical and emotional strength in personal growth ·       Saying yes to opportunities can lead to life-changing experiences. ·       Visualization and feeling the success before it happens primes your mind. ·       Surrounding yourself with supportive people accelerates growth. ·       Physical strength boosts mental and emotional resilience.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rachel Druckenmiller 02:02 Rachel’s Background and Path to Speaking 03:36 Leaving Corporate for Full-Time Speaking 07:14 The Impact of the Pandemic on Rachel’s Business 08:46 Rachel’s Near-Death Experience and Recovery 14:00 Physical and Emotional Healing Journey 18:10 Rachel’s Dream to Sing the National Anthem 20:24 The Surprise Opportunity at Camden Yards 22:10 Preparing for the Big Stage 24:09 Building a Foundation for a Bigger Life 25:31 Advice for Feeling Stuck and Building Confidence 28:07 Visualization and Materialization of Dreams 32:51 The Power of Belief and Taking Action 34:38 Rachel’s Future Goals and Dreams 38:34 Allowing the Unfolding of Your Life Journey 39:07 Closing Remarks and Follow Rachel’s Journey   Quotes "You get one life. Take a chance." "What's it costing you to hold back?" "Don't rob us of your contribution. Show up."   Links Rachel Druckenmiller’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/rachel-druckenmiller/   Rachel Druckenmiller’s Website: https://www.racheldruckenmiller.com/   Rachel Druckenmiller’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbdruckenmiller/

    40 min
  7. Inspired By It: The Strategy and Mindset for Sustainable Success

    May 11

    Inspired By It: The Strategy and Mindset for Sustainable Success

    Inspired By It: The Strategy and Mindset for Sustainable Success   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Brian Reynolds. He shares his journey from starting at Coca-Cola at 17 to building a social media following of over 250,000. He discusses goal setting, authenticity, consistency, and the importance of thinking long-term to achieve success in both personal and professional life.   Takeaways ·       Goal setting and achievement over two decades ·       Building an authentic personal brand ·       The role of consistency and authenticity in social media success ·       Writing down goals increases the likelihood of achievement. ·       Authenticity and consistency are crucial for social media growth. ·       Thinking long-term (2-3 decades) is more effective than short-term goals. ·       Overcoming fear of failure is essential for progress. ·       Building a supportive circle helps sustain motivation.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian Reynolds 01:20 Brian's Journey and Goal Setting 05:03 Transitioning to Social Media and Authenticity 11:45 The Impact of Inspirational Content 16:20 Motivational Speaking and Encouraging Youth 22:41 Overcoming Obstacles and Consistency 28:41 The Importance of Passion and Genuine Impact   Quotes "Authentic content resonates most" "Persistence beats talent" "Everyone has bad days, push through"   Links Bryan Reynold’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/bryan-reynolds/   Bryan Reynold’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-reynolds-8897b845/

    31 min
  8. All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose

    May 4

    All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose

    All Rise: A Lawyer's Evolution from Prison to Purpose   Summary In this episode of the Amplify Speakers podcast, host Chris Sund interviews Rashmi Airan. She shares her powerful journey from a successful attorney to facing prison, and how her experiences shaped her approach to leadership, decision-making, and resilience. This episode explores the importance of self-awareness, recognizing red flags, and making better choices under pressure.   Takeaways ·         The importance of self-awareness in decision-making ·         Recognizing and acting on red flags in professional relationships ·         The impact of emotional reactions on critical decisions ·         The 'Clarity Loop' process for better choices under pressure ·         Resilience and personal growth after facing adversity ·         All of us are capable of drift, especially under pressure. ·         Listening to your inner voice can prevent costly mistakes. ·         The 'Clarity Loop' involves four questions to improve decision quality. ·         Red flags are often ignored because of emotional reactions. ·         Personal adversity can be a catalyst for growth and leadership.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rashmi Aaron's Journey 01:16 From Attorney to Prison: A Life-Altering Experience 07:42 Lessons Learned: The Drift and Decision-Making 13:31 The Clarity Loop: A Framework for Better Decisions 18:43 Rebuilding Life After Prison: A New Purpose 24:44 The Launch of 'All Rise': Sharing the Story Quotes "Good people with good intentions can drift" "I turned a blind eye to the red flags" "Too good to be true is a red flag"   Links Rashmi Airan’s Profile: https://amplifyspeakers.com/rashmi-airan/   Rashmi Airan’s Website: https://rashmiairan.com/   Rashmi Airan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashmia

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Amplify Speakers Podcast features conversations with elite speakers, leaders, athletes, authors, and change-makers who know what it takes to perform at a high level and create real impact. Each episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore mindset, leadership, resilience, and the moments that shaped their journey. Hosted by Chris Sund of Amplify Speakers, this podcast spotlights voices that challenge thinking, inspire action, and help listeners elevate how they lead, communicate, and show up.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Sund
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Chris Sund
  • Show Website
    Amplify Speakers Podcast

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