Leadership on the Rocks

Bethany Rees
  • 5.0 (7)
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  • Biweekly Series

The Leadership on the Rocks podcast is about equipping and empowering leaders like you, so you can THRIVE IN and CREATE HARMONY BETWEEN YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIVES. As a community through this podcast, we will become equipped with the essential leadership skills needed to grow professionally, but understand that it doesn't have to come at the expense of our home and family lives. Together, we will share struggles and lessons learned as well as look to leadership principles and best practices for being our best at work and at home. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com for more FREE resources as well as online courses, coaching, workshops, and speaking.

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  1. Episode 107

    #107 Start Strong: Lead on Solid Ground in a Chaotic World with Liz Cobo

    What if the key to steady leadership in a chaotic world is staying rooted in who you are—and whose you are? In this episode of Leadership on the Rocks, Bethany Rees sits down with Liz Cobo for a powerful conversation about grounding both life and leadership in faith. Together, they explore what it looks like to build on the unshakable foundation of Jesus and to live as the same person at work, at home, and everywhere in between. You’ll hear practical encouragement around: Building leadership on faith, not circumstances Integrating your identity instead of compartmentalizing it Leading with peace, conviction, and integrity in every space If you’re tired of feeling split between who you are professionally and who you are personally, this episode will help you realign your compass and start the year on solid ground. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest: Liz Cobo Website: https://lizcobo.com/  https://thegracefulapologist.comInstagram: @thegracefulapologistYouTube: The Graceful Apologist ********************************** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #107 Start Strong: Lead on Solid Ground in a Chaotic World with Liz Cobo

  2. Episode 108

    #108 Why Leaders Struggle to Listen (and the Simple Fix) | Better Listening with Stanford Slovin

    Listening is one of the most overlooked skills in leadership—but it might also be the most powerful. In this episode of Leadership on the Rocks, Bethany Rees sits down with Stanford Slovin, author of Better Listening: The Secret to Improving Your Professional and Personal Life, to talk about how active listening builds trust, deepens relationships, and leads to wiser decision-making. Stan shares proven strategies to move beyond surface-level conversations, expand empathy, resolve conflicts, and create more meaningful professional and personal connections. Pause - Don’t cut people off Reflect - What is the person revealing? Empathy - Connect with the person by sharing an understanding that will build trust and safety Curiosity - Ask questions that allow them to “empty their buckets” and go deeper in the conversation.  Clarity - Gain clarity about the person’s thoughts, feelings, needs, etc. 👉 Tune in to learn how mastering the art of listening can transform your leadership. https://www.betterlisteningbook.com/  ******************************** 👉 Want more tools to thrive in leadership? Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership on Amazon.  CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #108 Why Leaders Struggle to Listen (and the Simple Fix) | Better Listening with Stanford Slovin

  3. Episode 109

    #109 Lead With Hope: How Leaders Build Resilience, Joy, and Belief with Brandi Kelly

    In this episode of Leadership on the Rocks, Bethany Rees sits down with Brandi Kelly to talk about something leadership circles rarely prioritize—but desperately need: hope. Brandi shares her powerful personal story and introduces her HOPE Framework, a practical system leaders can use to build resilience, restore joy, and help people feel truly seen, heard, and valued. In this episode, you’ll learn: What hope really means in leadership (and why it’s not fluff) How pain can be transformed into purpose The HOPE framework: Habits – grounding yourself daily Optimistic Outlook – reframing mindset and stress Purpose, Passion & Perseverance – sustaining momentum Excellence – getting 1% better every day Why leadership transformation must happen inside out Simple, no-cost ways to build trust, belief, and connection on your team 🔗 Connect with Brandi: Book: Lead with H.O.P.E.: Building a System of Self-Efficacy Website: https://sparkhopeedu.com/ - Click on Book a free consultation to learn more about the Leadership Kickstart program and the assessments within it (e.g. Enneagram) Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook Freebie Values Assessment: Values are your north star—guiding your motivation, passion, and definition of success. When your actions align with your values, you are living with purpose and fulfillment. 💥 Want to Strengthen Your Team’s Leadership? Most initiatives fail not because of bad ideas—but because leaders aren't equipped to carry them through. That’s where Leadership on the Rocks workshops come in. Whether you're leading a school, business, or nonprofit, our customizable, story-driven workshops give your team the clarity, tools, and confidence they need to lead effectively and create lasting impact. 👉 Visit leadershipontherocks.com to book a workshop and empower your leaders today! CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #109 Lead With Hope: How Leaders Build Resilience, Joy, and Belief with Brandi Kelly

  4. Episode 110

    #110 From Nice to Necessary: Building Real Collaboration with Kurtis Hewson

    Real collaboration isn’t about being nice. It’s about building the structures that allow teams to think, challenge, and solve problems together. In this episode, Kurtis Hewson shares how leaders can move from surface-level cooperation to true collaboration by setting clear purpose, norms, and roles. You’ll learn why the room is smarter than any one person in it—and how to unlock that collective power.  If you want to build a culture where everyone thrives—not just gets along—this episode is your blueprint. We cover: The difference between collegial and collaborative teams Why structure actually increases creativity How to design meetings that are focused and solution-oriented The power of shared language (like locus of control) Why leaders must “set the banks of the river” and let the water flow 🔗 Connect with Kurtis Hewson Website: http://jigsawlearning.ca Book: Collaborative Response Book Podcast:  Building a Culture of Collaboration Newsletter (JL Insiders): http://jlinsiders.com Freebie: Click here for a free overview article for Collaborative Response Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube  CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks Linked In: Bethany Rees Twitter: @Leadontherocks Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #110 From Nice to Necessary: Building Real Collaboration with Kurtis Hewson

  5. Episode 111

    #111 Anchored Leadership: Leading With Purpose with Michelle Sloan

    Burned out. Disengaged. Constantly chasing the next “urgent” thing? In this episode, Michelle Sloan explains why purpose is the anchor every leader needs — and what chaos, turnover, and culture drift look like when we lose it. You’ll learn: Why purpose drives decision-making How to stop chasing every shiny new trend A simple way to realign when your leadership has drifted Key takeaway: You have a unique purpose — and so does everyone you lead. Discover it. Lead from it. Pour Decision to Avoid:  Don’t let others define what’s urgent and important for you. 🔗 Connect with Our Guest: Michelle Sloan Website: https://sloanleadership.comBook: The Purpose Driven Principal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SloanLeadershipSolutions   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sloanleadership/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-sloan-9b80112a2/  Freebie: How To Achieve Work-Life Balance E-Book: https://sloanleadership.mykajabi.com/balance  ********************** Leadership isn’t about wearing different masks—it’s about standing on a firm foundation. If you’re ready to lead with clarity, consistency, and faith—without separating who you are at work from who you are at home—explore Bethany’s coaching, workshops, and leadership resources designed for real life and real leadership. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com.  Order my book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #111 Anchored Leadership: Leading With Purpose with Michelle Sloan

  6. Episode 112

    #112 Lead by Following: Why God Must Be the Leader of Your Leadership with David Schmidt

    What if the key to strong leadership isn’t leading harder—but following better? In this episode, Bethany sits down with theologian, engineer, and business coach David Schmidt to explore how a leader’s worldview shapes everything from decisions to definition of success. David shares why Christian leaders must build their leadership on a foundation of following God first—and how daily time in Scripture transforms the way we lead, serve, and pursue results. They also discuss why success in leadership isn’t measured by profits or productivity, but by faithfulness and obedience to God. When leaders focus on diligence and honoring God in their work, the results are ultimately in His hands. Key Takeaways Your worldview shapes your leadership—what you believe about God and purpose influences every decision you make. Leadership transformation begins by following God first, not just adopting better mindsets or strategies. Sanctification matters in leadership—what’s inside you will come out when pressure hits. True success for Christian leaders is obedience and diligence, while trusting God with the results. The simplest leadership habit that changes everything: spend time in God’s Word every day. Resources & Links Free Resource: What God Says About Business: 5 Uncommon Truths for the Modern Business Website: https://www.redeemingbusinesstoday.com/ Podcast: Redeeming Business Today (Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music) YouTube: @redeemingbusinesstoday LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidschmidt-bible Newsletter: Leadership GPS (weekly leadership insights) 👉 Want more tools to thrive in leadership? Order my new book Leadership on the Rocks: How to Survive, Adapt, and Succeed in the Wilderness of Leadership at www.leadershipontherocks.com or on Amazon. CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #112 Lead by Following: Why God Must Be the Leader of Your Leadership with David Schmidt

  7. Episode 113

    #113 Leading with Clarity and Courage in Complex Environments with Hema Gupta

    In today’s episode, Bethany sits down with Hema Gupta, a leader working at the intersection of clean energy, strategy, and people, to unpack what it really looks like to lead when things are complex, fast-moving, and… let’s be honest… a little messy. Hema shares how leaders can move from overwhelm to clarity, why courage is a daily leadership decision (not a personality trait), and how elevating others is the real multiplier for sustainable success. If you’ve ever felt like you’re navigating constant change with no clear roadmap—this conversation will give you both perspective and practical direction. 💡 In this episode, we cover: Why clarity is a leader’s responsibility—not a luxury How to lead with courage when the stakes (and uncertainty) are high Turning complexity into momentum instead of paralysis The mindset shift from “doing it all” to elevating others Leading in industries and environments that are constantly evolving 🔗 Connect with Hema Gupta on LinkedIn *** CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks Linked In: Bethany Rees Twitter: @Leadontherocks Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #113 Leading with Clarity and Courage in Complex Environments with Hema Gupta

  8. Episode 114

    #114 Authentic Leadership & Culture That Connects with Dr. Valerie Arechiga

    In this episode, Bethany sits down with Dr. Valerie Arechiga to unpack what it really means to lead with authenticity—and why culture isn’t built by policies, but by people. Drawing from her journey in education and her doctoral research, Valerie shares how leaders can create environments where every voice is valued, perspectives are honored, and connection drives performance. From the power of core values to the discipline of “pausing” instead of reacting, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for leaders in any industry. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Authentic leadership starts with knowing your core values—and staying true to them Culture is built when everyone has a seat AND a voice at the table The “power of the pause” can transform your decision-making and reduce reactive leadership Seek to understand before you assume—most people aren’t resisting, they’re lacking support Your background and culture are not limitations—they’re leadership assets The best leaders prioritize relationships over roles 🔗 Connect with Dr. Valerie Arechiga: LinkedIn: Valerie Nesmith-Arechiga, Ed.D Instagram: @Vaarechiga24  Website: thinkingnation.org  *** 💥 Want to Strengthen Your Team’s Leadership? Most initiatives fail not because of bad ideas—but because leaders aren't equipped to carry them through. That’s where Leadership on the Rocks workshops come in. Whether you're leading a school, business, or nonprofit, our customizable, story-driven workshops give your team the clarity, tools, and confidence they need to lead effectively and create lasting impact. 👉 Visit leadershipontherocks.com to book a workshop and empower your leaders today! CONTACT US:  Visit our website at  https://www.leadershipontherocks.com/  Follow us online at: Facebook: Leadership on the Rocks Instagram: @leadershipontherocks LinkedIn: Bethany Rees Email us at contact@bressentialservices.com

    #114 Authentic Leadership & Culture That Connects with Dr. Valerie Arechiga
See All Season 5 (13)

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About

The Leadership on the Rocks podcast is about equipping and empowering leaders like you, so you can THRIVE IN and CREATE HARMONY BETWEEN YOUR PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIVES. As a community through this podcast, we will become equipped with the essential leadership skills needed to grow professionally, but understand that it doesn't have to come at the expense of our home and family lives. Together, we will share struggles and lessons learned as well as look to leadership principles and best practices for being our best at work and at home. Visit us at www.leadershipontherocks.com for more FREE resources as well as online courses, coaching, workshops, and speaking.

Information

  • Creator
    Bethany Rees
  • Episodes
    119
  • Seasons
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Leadership on the Rocks from BR Essential Services
  • Show Website
    Leadership on the Rocks