Clark Connection Podcast

Aaron Clark

Here Leadership, Personal Growth, and Entrepreneurial Wisdom Converge!

  1. APR 14

    What 2 Years of Podcasting Taught Me - EP84 - CCP w/Caitlin Michelet

    What can 2 years of podcasting really teach you about leadership, personal growth, and success? In this special anniversary episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark, aka THE Coach, breaks down the real lessons learned after 84 episodes, from starting imperfectly to building influence through consistency, storytelling, and growth. If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, growing your brand, or becoming a stronger leader, this episode gives you practical insight into what works, what doesn’t, and what actually moves the needle. You’ll learn: • The biggest lessons from 2 years of podcasting • What made the top-performing episodes successful • Why most podcasts fail and how to avoid it • How to grow your influence through leadership and consistency • The power of starting before you feel ready This episode is for entrepreneurs, leaders, content creators, and anyone serious about personal development and building something that lasts. 🎯 Whether you’re in Louisiana, or building a global brand, the principles in this episode apply to you. 🔗 Connect with Aaron Clark, THE Coach Join the community: https://www.skool.com/leadership-multipliers-4731 Ask THE Coach: https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8 Connect with me on my website www.coachaclark.com or social media @coach.a.clark 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 Coming Up 01:28 Theme Song 01:54 Celebrating Two Years of Podcasting 05:45 Top Performing Episodes: Insights and Reflections 09:10 Coolest Guests: Memorable Moments 12:05 Favorite Episodes: Personal Highlights 37:38 Embracing Change in Podcasting 44:00 Lessons from Two Years of Podcasting 52:03 The Importance of Starting and Learning 01:01:30 The Journey of Growth and Connection #Podcasting #PodcastGrowth #PodcastTips #StartAPodcast #PodcastLessons #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #Entrepreneurship #ContentCreation #BuildInPublic #ConsistencyWins #GrowthMindset #SuccessHabits #Storytelling #Influence #Motivation #BusinessGrowth #BrandBuilding #DigitalMarketing #MobileAlabama #AlabamaBusiness #GulfCoastEntrepreneurs #LocalLeadership #CoachAClark #ClarkConnectionPodcast #AskTheCoach #LeadershipPodcast #EntrepreneurPodcast #HowToStartAPodcast #LessonsLearned #84Episodes #TwoYearsStrong

    1h 9m
  2. MAR 31

    Pressure Reveals Leaders - EP83 - CCP w/Kyle Wilkes

    Leadership is easy when things are calm, it gets real when people are hurting. In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with Kyle Wilkes, entrepreneur and funeral director, to break down leadership under pressure, emotional intelligence in high-stress environments, and what it takes to lead through grief, conflict, and responsibility. Kyle shares his journey from nursing to funeral services, the grind of apprenticeship, and the reality of business ownership in an industry where every detail matters. This conversation dives into leadership during crisis, handling difficult family dynamics, building trust through attention to detail, and why teams fail when leaders fail to train and develop them. If you are serious about leadership, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and building strong teams, this episode will challenge how you think about ownership, resilience, and accountability. Topics in this episode, leadership under pressure, leading through grief, emotional intelligence in leadership, entrepreneurship and business ownership, apprenticeship and skill development, handling conflict and family dynamics, team training and leadership responsibility, resilience and vulnerability in leadership, attention to detail in business, continuous learning and growth. Watch until the end for key insights on staying composed, leading with clarity, and building trust when it matters most. Connect with Coach Clark Website, https://coachaclark.com Email, aaron@coachaclark.com Join the community, https://www.skool.com/leadership-multipliers-4731 Ask THE Coach Have a question you want answered on the show, submit it here, https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8 If this episode adds value, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs it. Connect with Kyle: Website: wilkesfuneralhomega.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyle.wilkes.73700 or https://www.facebook.com/wilkesfuneralhome 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 Coming Up 00:54 Theme Song 01:33 Welcome to the Show! 06:49 Kyle's Journey into Funeral Services 15:35 Transitioning from Employee to Owner 22:23 Handling Family Dynamics in Grief 25:41 Leadership Lessons from Personal Experiences 32:06 Leadership Lessons from Sports Organizations 34:54 The Man in the Mirror: Self-Leadership 36:46 Managing Stress and Expectations 39:09 Team Dynamics: Supporting Each Other 46:21 The Importance of Small Details 50:39 Resilience and Continuous Learning 53:56 Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth

    1h 3m
  3. MAR 24

    Why Storytelling Builds Trust (And Marketing Doesn’t) - EP82 - CCP w/Anna Tran

    What’s the real difference between marketing and public relations—and why does it matter for leaders? In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, I sit down with Anna Tran to break down the power of purposeful storytelling, the role of public relations in building long-term trust, and why credibility can’t be faked. If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or communicator trying to grow your influence, this conversation will challenge how you think about messaging, trust, and connection. Anna shares her journey from sales into PR, the lessons she learned along the way, and how leaders can guide others through growth and competency. We also dive into the realities of remote work, the importance of personal development, and why systems and habits are essential if you want consistent results. If you’ve ever wondered why some brands and leaders are trusted—and others are ignored—this episode will give you clarity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: -The difference between marketing and public relations -Why storytelling is the foundation of trust -How leaders build credibility over time -The role of personal growth in leadership -Why systems and habits drive long-term success -Lessons from transitioning from sales to PR Connect with Me (Coach Clark): 📧 Email: aaron@coachaclark.com 🌐 Website: coachaclark.com 📱 Instagram: @coach_a_clark 🎙️ Podcast IG: @clarkconnectionpodcast Join the Community: 🔥 Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/leadership-multipliers-4731 💬 Ask THE Coach (ATC Form): 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 #PublicRelations #PRStrategy #Storytelling #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #BuildTrust #TrustMatters #BrandTrust #MarketingVsPR #CommunicationSkills #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #ContentStrategy #ThoughtLeadership #RemoteWork #ProductivityHabits #SuccessHabits #SystemsAndProcesses #GrowthMindset #LevelUp #CoachClark #ClarkConnectionPodcast #AskTheCoach 00:00 Building Trust Through Connection 00:54 Theme Song 01:33 Intro & Welcome 06:00 The Evolution of Public Relations 12:05 From Sales to PR: A Personal Journey 18:00 Understanding Competency Levels in Leadership 24:08 Success Stories in Public Relations 30:10 The Importance of Personal Growth 35:44 Marketing vs. Public Relations: Key Differences

    53 min
  4. MAR 17

    From Trucking to Real Estate: Ginger Murray’s Path to Success - EP81 - CCP w/Ginger Murray

    In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with real estate professional Ginger Murray to talk about the power of trust, networking, and leadership in building a successful career. Ginger shares her unique journey into real estate, including the early influence of her grandmother and the transition she made from the trucking industry into the world of real estate. Throughout the conversation, she explains why trust is the foundation of strong client relationships and how persistence is critical in a commission-based profession. Aaron and Ginger also discuss the importance of networking, how public speaking helped Ginger grow beyond her introverted nature, and why adapting to technology and industry changes is essential for long-term success. Ginger also talks about the influence of financial education and how principles from Dave Ramsey have shaped the way she approaches business and serves her clients. If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, salesperson, or someone looking to grow your confidence in networking and relationship-building, this episode is packed with practical insight you can apply immediately. 📩 Connect with Aaron Clark: Email: aaron@coachaclark.com Website: https://coachaclark.com 📱 Follow on Social Media: Instagram / Facebook / TikTok: @coach_a_clark Podcast: @clarkconnectionpodcast 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would benefit from this conversation. 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 #ClarkConnectionPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadershipMatters #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalGrowth #RealEstateLeadership #RealEstateSuccess #NetworkingMatters #BusinessNetworking #ClientRelationships #TrustInBusiness #NegotiationSkills #PublicSpeaking #EntrepreneurMindset #SalesLeadership #FinancialEducation #DaveRamseyPrinciples #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipPodcast #Entrepreneurship #CoachClarkLeadership #AskTheCoach #LeadershipCommunity #SkoolCommunity #KeepLearningKeepLeadingKeepConnecting 00:00 Coming Up 00:48 Theme Song 01:27 Welcome and Introduction 06:53 Ginger's Journey into Real Estate 13:41 Navigating the Real Estate Landscape 20:47 Building Trust in Real Estate 26:37 Setting Realistic Goals in Real Estate 30:10 The Emotional Landscape of Real Estate 31:01 Networking and Public Speaking: Building Connections 36:28 Memorable Experiences in Real Estate 41:18 Guiding First-Time Home Buyers 47:17 The Importance of Continuous Learning 54:32 Business Sources and Financial Education

    1 hr
  5. MAR 10

    Starting Before You’re Ready - EP80 - CCP w/Molly Sartin

    In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with entrepreneur Molly Sartin to talk about what it really takes to start and grow a business from the ground up. Molly shares the story of launching her dance academy right after high school and the surprising moment when 75 students showed up on the very first registration day. What began as a passion quickly turned into a growing business that required hustle, leadership, and a willingness to learn along the way. During this conversation, Molly opens up about the early challenges of wearing multiple hats, the importance of strong support systems, and the mindset shifts necessary for long-term success. She also discusses how building the right team culture and leading with grace and humility has helped her continue to grow both as a leader and as a business owner. If you're an entrepreneur, leader, or someone thinking about starting a business, this episode is packed with practical insights about leadership, personal growth, and continuous learning. In this episode, we discuss: Starting a business at a young age The importance of hustle and work ethic Building a strong team and support system Leadership lessons learned through entrepreneurship Why continuous learning is essential for growth 📩 Connect with Aaron Clark: Email: aaron@coachaclark.com Website: https://coachaclark.com 📱 Follow on Social Media: Instagram: @coach_a_clark Podcast: @clarkconnectionpodcast 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would benefit from this conversation. 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 #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PersonalGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #EntrepreneurMindset #TeamLeadership #SmallBusiness 00:00 Coming Up 00:58 Theme Song 01:36 Introduction 06:47 Molly's Journey Begins 12:45 The Growth of a Dance Academy 18:48 Mindset Shifts in Entrepreneurship 24:51 Recognizing Success and Challenges 32:37 Building a Trustworthy Team 37:39 Building Strong Team Relationships 40:41 Learning from Feedback and Mistakes 43:33 The Importance of Humility in Leadership 45:39 Creating a Culture of Grace and Accountability 51:22 The Power of Storytelling in Teaching 56:25 Recommended Reads for Leaders 01:01:51 Advice for New Entrepreneurs

    1h 12m
  6. MAR 3

    Built, Broken, Rebuilt - EP79 - CCP w/Rene Manfre

    What does it take to rebuild when life knocks everything down? In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, I sit down with Rene’ Manfre to unpack a journey shaped by hard work, leadership, unexpected career pivots, and one life-altering event — Hurricane Katrina. From early lessons in work ethic and integrity, to developing leadership skills in an oil refinery, to transitioning into insurance and real estate, Rene’ shares how resilience and adaptability became the foundation of his success. We talk entrepreneurship, relationships in business, diversifying income streams, and why setbacks don’t have to define your future. If you’re building a business, navigating a career shift, or trying to grow through adversity, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger and move smarter. Key Topics: • Entrepreneurship & career development • Leadership forged through adversity • Rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina • The power of relationships in business • Diversifying income for long-term stability • Using podcasting to inspire and educate Want to go deeper in your leadership journey? Join my Leadership Multipliers community on Skool — where growth-minded leaders connect, sharpen their skills, and multiply their impact: https://www.skool.com/leadership-multipliers-4731 Connect with me: Website: coachaclark.com Email: aaron@coachaclark.com Social Media: @coach_a_clark Podcast Page: @clarkconnectionpodcast If this episode adds value, make sure to follow, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that resilience is built, not born. 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 #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth #BusinessDevelopment #Resilience #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #EntrepreneurLife #MindsetMatters #WorkEthic #BusinessLeadership #RealEstateLife #InsuranceIndustry #PodcastLife #TheClarkConnection #CoachAClark #LeadershipMultipliers

    1h 18m
  7. FEB 24

    Your Leadership Has an Energy Problem - EP78 - Energy Bus Book Review w/Caitlin Michelet CCP

    In this episode of the Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron and Caitlin break down Energy Bus and the powerful leadership principles behind positivity, mindset, and personal responsibility. Through the story of George—a leader facing adversity at work and at home—we unpack the 10 rules that transform not just organizations, but individuals. This isn’t surface-level motivation. It’s a deep dive into how energy shapes culture, how leaders set the tone, and why positivity is a choice—especially when circumstances aren’t ideal. We discuss: Why leaders must control their energy to influence team performance How “energy vampires” drain culture and what to do about them The power of vision, commitment, and accountability in leadership Why celebrating small wins builds momentum How love, discipline, and high standards work together If you’re serious about leadership development, building a positive team culture, and strengthening your mindset, this conversation will challenge you to take ownership. You are the driver of your bus. This episode is for entrepreneurs, managers, coaches, and growth-minded leaders who understand that personal development isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Connect with Aaron Clark: Website: coachaclark.com Email: aaron@coachaclark.com Instagram: @coach_a_clark Podcast Instagram: @clarkconnectionpodcast Subscribe to The Clark Connection Podcast for weekly conversations on leadership, personal growth, and building lasting impact. And if you’re ready to go beyond listening and start growing alongside other intentional leaders, join our new leadership community, Leadership Multipliers. It’s a space designed for leaders who want to sharpen their mindset, elevate their influence, and help develop other leaders in the process. Join here: https://www.skool.com/leadership-multipliers-4731 Got Questions?? Ask THE Coach! Submit your questions here: https://forms.gle/CxAoZ2xw6Z8aDifg8 In This Episode 00:00 Coming Up 01:18 Intro/Theme Song 01:56 Opening 02:20 Powered By 02:44 Sponsor Shoutout 06:51 Understanding the Energy Bus 13:04 The First Three Rules of the Energy Bus 29:10 The Second Three Rules, Navigating Negativity and Energy Vampires 36:18 Identifying Energy Vampires 39:28 Dealing with Negative Influences 42:18 The Impact of Positivity 47:01 Creating a Positive Team Culture 51:40 Last Four Rules, The Power of Love in Leadership 56:18 Going the Extra Mile vs. Burnout 01:01:29 Celebrating Successes 01:08:04 Taking Control of Your Leadership Journey 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 #EnergyBus #LeadershipDevelopment #PositiveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #PersonalGrowth #MindsetMatters #TeamCulture #EntrepreneurLeadership #MotivationForLeaders #EnergyVampires #HighPerformanceTeams #GrowthMindset #LeadershipCommunity #ClarkConnectionPodcast #LeadershipMultipliers

    1h 11m
  8. FEB 17

    Mock Legislation. Real Leadership. - EP77 - Cheryle Totton CCP

    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

    54 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Here Leadership, Personal Growth, and Entrepreneurial Wisdom Converge!