Timeout With Leaders

Tyler White and Kevyn Rustici
  • 5.0 (22)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Everyone has a story worth telling—and one we can all learn from. Behind every title is a human story. Timeout with Leaders goes beyond job titles and LinkedIn bios to explore the crooked mile of leadership: the messy, meaningful journey of becoming. From CEOs and Presidents to Executive Directors and visionaries, each guest shares their real story: the setbacks, turning points, and inner battles that shaped how they lead with greater clarity, courage, and compassion. This isn’t just a leadership podcast. It’s a space for honest inner reflection and growth, the kind that fuels the most impactful leadership. Through fun, raw, and enlightening conversations, we invite you to rethink what leadership really means, starting with yourself. Whether you're leading teams or simply leading your own life, take a timeout.

  1. 2D AGO

    S5:E14 “The Urge to Serve” Timeout with Aftab Banth

    Redefine the essence of influence with Aftab Banth, founder of Deep Trail and former security leader at TikTok. This episode dismantles the myth of leadership-as-control, offering a roadmap for transitioning from high-stakes executive pressure to a leadership style rooted in inner peace and radical self-awareness. Key Insights Include: Regulated Leadership: How mastering your internal emotional responses transforms leadership from a dictatorial exercise into a source of calm, steady impact. The Vulnerability Pivot: Lessons from Banth’s transition from the tech C-suite to purpose-driven mentorship, proving that authenticity is a leader's greatest asset. Micro-Acts of Legacy: Why small, intentional acts of kindness and community support create a ripple effect that far outlasts professional ego or titles. Tactical Mindfulness: Practical habits for staying grounded—including reflective thinking and presence—that allow you to lead with clarity even in high-chaos environments. Beyond the Transactional: Shifting your focus from surface-level success to emotional intelligence, ensuring your influence is felt both in the boardroom and your personal life. Perfect for the leader tired of traditional power plays, Banth’s philosophy serves as a guide for those ready to lead with purpose, empathy, and genuine fulfillment. Listen now to learn why the most important person you will ever lead is yourself.

    53 min

  2. FEB 3

    S5:E13 “Either You Win Or You Learn” Timeout with Amir

    Step into the dojo and the executive suite with Amir Khawaja, Senior Director at Discover Financial Services and co-founder of Black Belts and Boardrooms. This episode explores how the discipline of martial arts provides a high-performance blueprint for corporate leadership, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Key Insights Include: • The Sparring Mindset: How the physical adaptability required on the mat translates into confidence and quick decision-making under corporate pressure. • Trust Through Mastery: Why delivering your best work is the ultimate foundation for building organizational trust and professional influence. • The Power of Limitations: Understanding how self-awareness and acknowledging your boundaries can actually become your greatest leadership strengths. • Tactical Mindfulness: Simple, grounding habits—like daily journaling and overcoming negative self-talk—to maintain clarity amidst organizational chaos. • The Empathy Edge: Balancing technical competence with humility to lead teams with authenticity and mental agility. Whether you are a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, Khawaja’s philosophy demonstrates that true mastery is a holistic pursuit of mind, body, and spirit. Tune in to learn how to bridge the gap between physical discipline and professional excellence.

    55 min

  3. JAN 6

    S5:E12 Locked Up with Zach Lewis

    Dive into the career journey of Zach Lewis, CISO and CIO of the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy, as he explores the intersection of technical resilience and the "human" element of leadership. This episode serves as a tactical guide for navigating the high-stakes world of cybersecurity while staying grounded in curiosity and connection. Key Insights Include: The Power of Curiosity: Why inquisitive hiring is the secret to building high-performing, adaptable teams. Ransomware Reality Checks: Lessons from Lewis’s book, Locked Up, on surviving a cyber crisis and coming out stronger. AI’s Educational Shift: Understanding how emerging tech is reshaping the classroom and the future job market. Combating Burnout: Practical approaches to sustaining a long-term career in a high-pressure industry. Whether you're looking for leadership strategies in tech or a firsthand account of surviving a ransomware attack, Lewis’s blueprint emphasizes that professional success is built on a foundation of authentic relationships. Listen now to discover why intellectual curiosity is the ultimate asset for the modern C-suite leader.

    1 hr

  4. 12/19/2025

    S5:E11 “Don’t Outsource Your Critical Thinking” Timeout with Jonny Austin

    Explore the career journey of Johnny Austin as he bridges the gap between 90s tech culture and the future of AI and creativity. This episode offers a masterclass in professional development, focusing on the "human" skills that technology can’t replace. Key Insights Include: Building Authentic Relationships: Why professional networks are long-term investments. AI vs. Creativity: Navigating the impact of emerging tech on modern work. Energy Management: Strategies for sustaining performance in high-demand careers. Intentional Living: Finding wisdom through experience and mindful attention in a digital age. Whether you're looking for career advice for the next generation or tips on trusting your instincts, Austin’s blueprint for success emphasizes that mistakes are essential learning opportunities. Listen now to discover why genuine connection is the ultimate tool for leadership and advancement.

    1h 8m

  5. 10/31/2025

    S5:E10 “Finding Joy in the Journey” Timeout with Sue Newman

    Discover the unconventional career path of Sue Newman, Senior Director of Human Resources at ATW. In this episode, we explore how Newman transitioned from law enforcement to HR leadership, applying tactical skills from the police force to the corporate boardroom. Key Topics Explored: Transferable Skills: How lessons in communication and building rapport from law enforcement translate to HR. Leadership Presence: Mastering the "power of presence" to navigate complex gender dynamics and executive leadership. Mindfulness & Wellbeing: Using mindfulness and scuba diving as tools for maintaining professional balance. Strategic Intentions: A blueprint for pursuing genuine happiness and setting intentional career goals. This conversation is a must-listen for those interested in career pivots, unconventional leadership backgrounds, and personal development. Learn why an unconventional resume can be your greatest asset in building a fulfilling career.

    47 min

  6. 09/05/2025

    S5:E9 "You Have To Find Your Own Strength" Timeout with Richard Hernandez

    Uncover the journey of Richard Hernandez, a technology performance and benchmarking manager at Chevron Phillips. Trace his inspiring path, fueled by a deep commitment to connection, mentorship, and community. Discover powerful insights on the importance of building authentic relationships in a global work culture and the transformative power of storytelling. Learn the essential lessons of leadership gained from a career of learning, evolving, and giving back. Hernandez shares a blueprint for success built on the pillars of curiosity, the value of feedback, and the courage to transform failures into opportunities. This episode is essential listening for anyone ready to embrace lifelong learning, find their leadership voice, and build a career that truly makes a difference.

    53 min

  7. 08/22/2025

    S5:E8 "The Only Time You Really Fail is When You Don't Try Even Harder" Timeout with Gary Dunbar

    From farm to future: Gary Dunbar's journey of overcoming adversity and leading a massive team at NG North America. Trace his inspiring path from humble beginnings to a leadership role, fueled by resilience, curiosity, and the power of strategic questions. Gain powerful insights on the importance of personal growth, adapting to change, and building a team culture that thrives. Learn the importance of curiosity, asking the right questions, and transforming challenges into opportunities. Essential listening for anyone ready to embrace resilience, find their inner leader, and create a career that's built to last.

    49 min

  8. 08/08/2025

    S5:E7 "The most growth happens in the valleys" Timeout with Tiffany Benitez

    From IT to authentic impact: Tiffany Benitez shares her journey of breaking free from societal norms to build a career on her own terms. Trace her path from a successful IT career to discovering her true self and leaving a lasting legacy. Gain powerful insights on embracing authenticity, balancing passion with responsibility, and navigating the challenges women face in tech. Learn the importance of self-discovery, community support, and empowering the next generation of leaders. Essential listening for anyone ready to find their voice, own their worth, and create a career that's true to them.

    53 min
See All (100)

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Everyone has a story worth telling—and one we can all learn from. Behind every title is a human story. Timeout with Leaders goes beyond job titles and LinkedIn bios to explore the crooked mile of leadership: the messy, meaningful journey of becoming. From CEOs and Presidents to Executive Directors and visionaries, each guest shares their real story: the setbacks, turning points, and inner battles that shaped how they lead with greater clarity, courage, and compassion. This isn’t just a leadership podcast. It’s a space for honest inner reflection and growth, the kind that fuels the most impactful leadership. Through fun, raw, and enlightening conversations, we invite you to rethink what leadership really means, starting with yourself. Whether you're leading teams or simply leading your own life, take a timeout.

Information

  • Creator
    Tyler White and Kevyn Rustici
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Timeout With Leaders