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Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner Needs In this transformative episode, Julie Riga sits down with Jeremiah Aut, founder and CEO of Involved Digital Marketing, to explore the strategic foundations that drive sustainable business growth. Jeremiah shares his journey from fragmented experimentation to focused execution, revealing the three essential ingredients that align marketing strategy with long-term success. Whether you're a small business owner struggling to find clarity or an entrepreneur looking to scale with purpose, this conversation delivers actionable insights on building a marketing foundation that generates real ROI and creates lasting impact. Aligning Your Marketing for Long-Term Growth: The 3 Essential Ingredients Every Business Owner NeedsGuest: Jeremiah Aut, Founder & CEO of Involved Digital Marketing Host: Julie Riga About This EpisodeJulie explores the three essential ingredients for marketing success with Jeremiah Aut, a results-driven strategist who helps brands scale through smart strategy, storytelling, and execution. Jeremiah partners with a team of 20+ experts with over 23 years of combined experience who have built 1,800+ brands. Fun Fact: Jeremiah's favorite food is Pizza Hut Meat Lovers Personal Pan Pizza! The Three Ingredients for Marketing Success Clarity: The Foundation for Long-Term Growth Most businesses start marketing with no clear objective or measurable outcome. Define your messaging and foundation before investing in social media, SEO, or website development. Get crystal clear on your business vision and purpose first. Strategic Implementation: Executing with Alignment Every marketing dollar should generate a return on investment. Build a strategy that aligns with where your business is now and where you want to go in one to two years and beyond. Your success is directly tied to your clients' success. Collaboration & Continuous Learning Trial and error is essential to business growth. Partner with experts who understand your pain points to transform your marketing from guesswork to strategic growth. Learn from failures and use those lessons to create success. The 2026 Marketing LandscapeAI streamlines marketing operations but isn't everything. Video content on LinkedIn and YouTube is essential for targeting decision-makers and building authority. Being on multiple platforms protects you when one goes down. Key Quotes"You can build a website, all the different ingredients that go into marketing, without that foundation and that clear messaging. There is no real result, no long-term growth." "Their success is our success. That should be the measurable outcome for any strategy that's implemented." Key TakeawaysGet crystal clear on your objectives before spending on marketing. Surround yourself with experts who understand your industry. Every marketing strategy should generate measurable returns. Position yourself as an authority through video content. Learn from failure and use those lessons to build success. Align your marketing with where you want to be in one to five years. Connect with Jeremiah AutWebsite: www.involveddigitalmarketing.com (with an I, not an E!)Social Media: Available on LinkedIn, Facebook, and all major platformsCompany: Involved Digital MarketingDaily News Network: Watch Jeremiah on Ask the Expert and other showsConnect with Julie RigaWebsite: julieriga.com/leadPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastLeadership Coaching: Transformative coaching for authentic leadership and purposeful growth Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. #Leadership #Marketing #BusinessGrowth #PurposeDriven #DigitalMarketing

Ridiculously Easy Customer Experience Secrets with David Avrin A Must-Listen for CEOs, Entrepreneurs, and Leadership Professionals If you're a CEO, founder, executive leader, or HR professional looking to enhance leadership capabilities, build executive presence, and deliver customer experience that drives retention and revenue, this episode is for you. In this powerful episode of Stay on Course, Julie Riga sits down with David Avrin, one of the world’s most in-demand customer experience and business speakers, to discuss how to future-proof your leadership, transform your business strategy, and boost performance through ridiculously easy client interactions. David unpacks why most companies don’t lose customers to competitors—but to friction. Whether you're focused on career growth strategies, executive confidence, or building a success mindset, David shares actionable insights that will elevate your approach to leadership and client service. This episode is packed with leadership tips for CEOs, customer-centric strategies for high achievers, and networking mastery insights for today’s decision-makers. It’s a masterclass for those committed to high-performance coaching and agile leadership in the digital age. Key Ingredients in David's Expertise:SPEED WINS: Harvard study: Businesses responding within 5 minutes convert 100x better.“Money loves speed.” Even the best service fails if it’s slow.CONVENIENCE IS KING: QR menus and self-checkout may seem modern—but they can alienate key demographics.Be easy to do business with, across all ages and preferences.OMNICHANNEL OR DIE: Gen Z wants TikTok DMs. Boomers want phone calls. Serve both or lose both.“Contact forms are the voicemail of the internet” ditch them.BRUTAL TRUTHS FOR LEADERS: Quality isn’t your edge, it’s expected. Differentiation lies in frictionless service.Compete with Amazon and Uber? You already are, in customer expectations.AI & THE HUMAN TOUCH: AI should support the human experience, not replace it.Streamline, but don’t dehumanize.🎧 This Episode Will Help You:Unlock your leadership potential through powerful CX strategyOvercome leadership challenges in the digital and hybrid workplaceLead with confidence and clarity by mastering executive-level communicationDevelop a success mindset focused on ease, speed, and simplicityTransform your leadership style to meet modern expectations🛠️ Actionable Fixes You Can Implement Today:✅ Speed Hack: Forward contact forms to 3 team members to ensure replies within 5 minutes ✅ Convenience Test: Have a 12-year-old and a 70-year-old use your website, watch where they give up ✅ Omnichannel Audit: Offer phone, email, text, and Calendly. Let customers choose their path Connect with David Avrin🔗 LinkedIn: David Avrin About Julie Riga:Julie Riga is a certified coach, speaker, trainer, and author with over 20 years of experience in the Pharma Industry. She works with CEOs, entrepreneurs, executives, and HR leaders across the globe to drive career fulfillment, executive growth, and personal development for entrepreneurs. Julie began her coaching journey inspired by her father, Ennio Riga, who taught her resilience and the power of perseverance. Based in New Jersey, Julie empowers professionals to unlock their full potential and start their leadership journey with confidence. #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #CustomerExperience #BusinessLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #CoachingForCEOs #HighPerformanceLeadership #ExecutivePresence #LeadershipSkills #CareerFulfillment #SuccessMindset #LeadWithConfidence #CXStrategy #LeadershipTips #FutureOfWork

The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and LifeGuest: Gabriella Salvatore, Global Organizational Effectiveness & Leadership Strategy Advisor Host: Julie Riga OverviewIn this transformational episode, Julie welcomes Gabriella Salvatore to explore authentic leadership presence. Gabriella shares powerful insights on being truly present in our hyper-connected world. This conversation reveals the deeper practice of presence - how to listen, connect, and lead with clarity even when life pulls us in countless directions. Whether you're a busy professional or entrepreneur struggling with constant distractions, this episode offers practical wisdom for reclaiming your focus and making meaningful connections.   The Art of Presence: Ingredients for Success in Leadership and Life  Gabriella Salvatore is a global organizational effectiveness and leadership strategy advisor who helps enterprises scale with clarity, humanity, and impact. She has led transformational change across biopharma, tech, and financial services, influencing tens of thousands of employees worldwide. Fun Fact: Gabriella's favorite food is matzo brei - Jewish French toast made with matzo dipped in egg and fried in butter. She shares this unique heritage connection with host Julie Riga, as they're both Italian and Jewish. Gabriella prefers her matzo brei wetted before dipping in egg, served with butter and sugar.  What You'll Learn• The distinction between being present (focused attention) and having presence (quality of connection) • How digital distraction undermines leadership and relationships • Practical strategies: turning off notifications, time-blocking, and teaching stakeholders healthy boundaries • Why listening to yourself and others is the foundation of all presence   Key Insights• Presence is a practice, not perfection - even experienced meditators struggle daily • Model boundaries to teach others that constant connectivity isn't necessary • Be present to your specific role in each moment and honor what it needs • Quality over speed - singular focus beats divided attention   Memorable Quotes"Being present means reducing distraction and listening carefully - both to myself and to the other." "It's really okay to teach our stakeholders that you can wait." "It's more powerful to be present than distracted." "There is no perfection in presence."   Who Should ListenLeaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals overwhelmed by modern life's constant pull. If you're struggling with digital distraction, managing multiple priorities, or feeling never fully present, this conversation offers validation and practical solutions. We're all recovering non-present people - the goal is continuous practice, not perfection.   Your Next StepTurn off your notifications for one day. Notice what happens. Then experiment with 2-hour time blocks. Presence isn't about perfection - it's about returning to authentic connection with yourself and others.   Connect with Gabriella Salvatore• LinkedIn: Gabriella D. Salvatore • Email: [email protected] Connect with Julie Riga• Website: julieriga.com/lead • Coaching: Learn more about leadership coaching, personal transformation, and the ingredients for success in life and career Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts Share this episode with leaders who need this reminder about the power of presence #StayOnCourse #LeadershipPresence #AuthenticLeadership #Mindfulness #PurposeDrivenLeadership

The Art of PR: How Small Businesses Can Earn Media Coverage with Ed Katz Episode Summary In this invaluable episode of Stay On Course, host Julie Riga sits down with Ed Katz, an award-winning PR expert and founder of Katnip Marketing, to reveal how small businesses can effectively cut through media clutter and gain valuable publicity. This conversation delivers powerful media strategies and PR insights for entrepreneurs, authors, and service providers looking to amplify their brand without a massive budget. Ed shares his journey from media professional to PR specialist, revealing essential publicity techniques that have helped clients ranging from small business owners to Oscar-nominated actors achieve remarkable media success. Whether you're looking for social media growth strategies, press outreach tactics, or podcast promotion methods, this episode provides actionable wisdom on how to build credibility and attract media attention. Perfect for entrepreneurs, authors, and marketing professionals, this discussion explores the publicity mindset needed to transform your business visibility. Ed shares practical advice on leveraging social media, crafting compelling pitches, and creating newsworthy moments that journalists can't ignore. Key Takeaways Discover the "magic number" of social media followers that makes journalists take noticeLearn why Facebook often outperforms LinkedIn for business promotionMaster the 7 key moments every business should send press releasesUnderstand how to position yourself as a subject matter expert in your fieldDevelop a media outreach strategy that gets consistent resultsLearn from real case studies, including how Ed helped grow a celebrity podcast to the top 3%Balance promotional content with valuable information using the 80/20 ruleBuild authentic relationships with journalists and media outletsLeverage charity work and company milestones for positive PRCreate a publicity strategy that aligns with your business goalsAbout Ed Katz Ed Katz is the founder of Katnip Marketing, a PR firm specializing in helping small businesses and celebrities earn valuable media coverage. With a team certified by Google, Meta, and Yelp - a distinction held by less than 3% of agencies - Ed has helped numerous clients achieve remarkable publicity success. His approach focuses on combining strategic social media growth with targeted media outreach to deliver maximum impact. Connect with Ed Website: Katnipmarketing.com Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe to Stay On Course for more conversations on business growth, leadership development, and entrepreneurial success. About Julie Riga Julie Riga is a certified coach, speaker, and host of Stay On Course, a podcast inspired by her father's legacy that helps professionals align purpose with performance. With extensive experience in corporate training and executive coaching, Julie is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and business leaders to achieve their full potential. Based in New Jersey, Julie has worked with organizations worldwide, helping them develop leadership capabilities and create meaningful growth. Her unique perspective blends practical business strategies with personal development insights. Learn More About Julie: https://www.julieriga.com/

From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and Connection Guest: Junaid Ahmed, Home Studio Architect and Host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories Host: Julie Riga Overview In this inspiring episode recorded live at PodFest 2026, host Julie Riga connects with Junaid Ahmed for their second annual PodFest conversation. Junaid, known as the Home Studio Architect and host of Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, shares powerful insights on podcast growth, audience building, and the evolution required to create a sustainable and purpose-driven platform. This conversation captures the energy of one of podcasting’s premier conferences while delivering grounded wisdom for creators focused on legacy, impact, and long-term growth. From PodFest to Purpose: Building Your Podcast Legacy Through Growth and Connection About This Episode Recorded live from PodFest 2026, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at why conferences are transformative for podcasters at every stage. Julie and Junaid reflect on year-over-year growth, share their biggest conference takeaways, and discuss the mindset shifts required to evolve without abandoning what already works. They explore the transition from using a podcast primarily as a networking tool to building it as a true audience-driven platform. Julie also shares her perspective on stepping into the role of front person for the Stay On Course brand and strengthening social media presence to amplify reach and impact. Guest Background Junaid Ahmed, pronounced “like lemonade,” is the Home Studio Architect who helps podcasters and creators build professional home studios. With five years of PodFest attendance, Junaid is a recognized voice in the podcasting community. He hosts Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories, where he highlights how people turn passion into profit while maintaining authenticity and purpose. Fun Fact: This is Junaid’s second consecutive year recording with Julie at the GObox studio at PodFest, creating an annual tradition of reflection and growth. Key Topics Discussed • Building genuine connections at PodFest through consistent presence and community • Compounding knowledge year over year rather than starting over • Learning from creators who evolve across platforms while staying aligned • Shifting focus from monetization to audience growth • Becoming the visible front person of your brand • The reality of empire building and the cost of support and collaboration • Investing time and money wisely and implementing what you learn Memorable Quotes “As podcasters, we are compounding knowledge every single year.” “I used to see my podcast as a networking tool. Now I am focused on growing my audience.” “You cannot build an empire by yourself.” “What you gain depends on how you implement what you learn.” Key Takeaways Compound your growth instead of resetting each year Evolve your platform without abandoning what works Shift from networking to audience building Invest in community, support, and long-term growth Show up consistently and implement what you learn Connect with Junaid AhmedPodcast: Hacks and Hobbies: Passion to Profit Stories Business: Home Studio Architect Services: Studio setup consultation and podcasting support Social Media: Available across major platforms Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. #PodcastGrowth #LeadershipMindset #PurposeDriven #AuthenticGrowth #StayOnCourse

Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy LeadershipGuest: Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, Founder of Golden Ray Publishing Host: Julie Riga Overview In this powerful episode, host Julie Riga sits down with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a veteran ghostwriter, publisher, and media strategist who transforms lived experience into legacy. Lisa shares her expertise in authentic leadership, personal brand protection, and the responsibility of stepping into the spotlight with integrity. From her work with Navy SEALs to her role as media director for TEDx Maisner Park, Lisa reveals the strategic frameworks that separate professionals from amateurs in publishing and personal branding. Guard the Work: The Unspoken Rules of Legacy Leadership About This EpisodeJulie welcomes Dr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray, a purpose-driven publisher and legacy strategist who helps leaders turn their stories into protected, powerful assets. Lisa is the founder of Golden Ray Publishing and works extensively in the Special Forces and military legacy space. Her work is represented in national SEAL museums, and she serves as media director for TEDx Maisner Park. Guest BackgroundDr. (h.c.) Lisa Ray is a 20-year veteran ghostwriter and founder of Golden Ray Publishing. With 11 books releasing before June, Lisa specializes in military legacy work, having authored SEAL Team 1: Moy Bell and The Painted Frog (releasing August 2026). Fun Fact: Lisa is from Newport, Rhode Island, and her favorite food is a lobster roll, preferably enjoyed in the summer in her hometown. The Three Ingredients for Author SuccessIntegrity: Handle legacy stories with care and truth. Build trust with those whose stories you share. Truth: Tell stories from first-person perspective. Maintain accuracy and authenticity. Vulnerability: Allow authentic connection through honest storytelling. Create emotional resonance that outlives the spotlight. Memorable Quotes"Clarity beats charisma every time." "The red dot is not about performance, it's about responsibility." "Structure doesn't stifle creativity, it protects it." "Guard the work, and the work will guard you." "Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room." Key Insights for LeadersThe Publishing Truth: Books are the most successful piece of marketing when handled correctly. Your book should serve as your lead generator and establish you as an expert, but only if protected and positioned strategically. The Legacy Principle: You're three generations away from everyone forgetting your name. Written legacy from your first-person perspective ensures your story lives beyond the spotlight. Protection Before Promotion: Don't rush to market before your brand is ready. Protect your work through copyright and trademarks. Work with professionals to shape your message with integrity. Rapid Fire InsightsSuccess in one sentence: "Success is when your reputation speaks before you even enter the room." Biggest mistake new authors make: "They rush to publish before they've protected their story or clarified the message." What separates pros from amateurs? "Professionals build systems, amateurs rely on talent and hope." Best advice ever received: "Guard the work, and the work will guard you." One non-negotiable in publishing: "Integrity, because once it's compromised, the book fails before it's even read." Connect with Dr. (h.c.) Lisa RayWebsite: www.goldenraybooks.com Free Zoom Consultation: Available via green button at bottom of website Key TakeawaysProtect Before You Promote: Structure and boundaries protect your creativity and messageClarity Over Charisma: Your message must be clean, honest, and grounded in experienceLegacy Is Intentional: Success is building stories that outlive the spotlightTrust Is Everything: In publishing and leadership, integrity is non-negotiable Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts. #Leadership #Legacy #Publishing #AuthenticGrowth #PurposeDriven

Leading Change When The Old You No Longer Works: Navigating High-Stakes Transformation with Heart-Centered LeadershipGuest: Lin Coughlin, Executive Coach & Strategic Advisor Host: Julie Riga OverviewIn this powerful episode, Julie sits down with Lin Coughlin, an executive coach who spent 20 years in C-suite roles leading transformative change. Lin shares her wisdom on navigating high-stakes inflection points, building constituencies for change, and why leading bold transformation requires both thick skin and deep curiosity. This conversation is a masterclass for anyone stepping into uncertainty, transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship, or questioning what comes next. If you're ready to reframe uncertainty as your greatest leadership invitation, this episode will show you how. Leading Change When The Old You No Longer Works: Navigating High-Stakes Transformation with Heart-Centered Leadership About Lin Coughlin Lin is an executive coach and strategic advisor with nearly 30 years of leadership experience. She spent 20 years in C-suite operating roles leading mergers and acquisitions, turnarounds, internal startups, and high-growth transformations. Lin is launching a new leadership development business focused on high-potential women leaders, offering group coaching and peer-to-peer learning. Fun Fact: Lin's favorite food is roasted peaches! Key TopicsThe Core Framework for Leading Change: Future State First: Start with possibility and achievability, then work backwardHuman-Centered Leadership: Lead from the heart first, then the headThe 80% Rule: 80% of change success comes from cultivating trusting relationships Why 70% of Change Initiatives Fail: Lack of stakeholder buy-in at the outsetInsufficient attention to executionInability to pivot and course correct in uncertain environmentsMemorable Quotes"What got you here will not get you there." "80% of leading change comes from being able to cultivate trusting and trusted relationships." "The disruptors really are the people who are the future of the organization." Key Insights Lin's Leadership Philosophy: Surround yourself with people who can do circles around youInvest strategically in their developmentCoach and mentor them closely The Corporate-to-Entrepreneur Transition: Think in multiple revenue streams from day oneJulie quit "every Friday for two years"—the transition is genuinely difficultIt's liberating and makes you more productive in all areas of life The Disruptor's Dilemma: Both Lin and Julie identify as corporate disruptors. Julie was called a "trailblazer" in March and lost her job in April—the harsh reality of being ahead of the curve. Disruptors need psychologically safe spaces to raise bold ideas and be heard. Essential Skills for Change LeadersInfluence and communication masteryBuilding constituencies excited about possibilitySelf-confidence to navigate politics and complexityResilience to fail forward and course correct quicklyConnect with Lin CoughlinWebsite: www.greatcircleassociates.comEmail: [email protected] TakeawaysStart with possibility—paint a compelling future state firstLead with heart—relationships and trust drive 80% of successEmbrace disruptors—they're your organization's futureBuild multiple revenue streams for career resilienceCommunicate relentlessly—repeat your vision like building a brand 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts #Leadership #PurposeDriven #Transformation #CareerGrowth #Authenticity

Brain-Based Leadership: How Awareness, Curiosity, and Presence Transform the Way You LeadGuest: Tracy Benson, Top 1% LinkedIn Coach & Brain-Based Leadership Expert Host: Julie Riga Overview Join Julie Riga as she sits down with Tracy Benson, a top 1% LinkedIn coach and brain-based leadership expert who has spent over three decades helping senior leaders create clarity, alignment, and real performance. Tracy blends neuroscience, leadership psychology, and practical business strategy to give leaders tools they can use immediately to transform teams, organizations, and results. Discover how awareness, curiosity, and presence can revolutionize the way you lead. Brain-Based Leadership: How Awareness, Curiosity, and Presence Transform the Way You Lead The Three Ingredients for Leadership Success:1. Awareness Understanding what drives behavior beneath conscious awareness. Tracy reveals that 90% of brain function is unconscious yet rules how we show up. Learn to recognize reactive emotional states before they control you. 2. Curiosity The two magic words that shift you out of negative emotional states: "I wonder." Tracy explains why you cannot be angry and curious at the same time, making curiosity the entrance ramp to co-creation and discovery. 3. Presence & Perspective Discover foveal vs. peripheral view and how narrow focus blocks solutions. When you step back to include peripheral vision, all the ideas, solutions, and magic become available. Key Insights:The Power of "I Wonder": Two simple words that immediately shift you out of reactive states and open the palette of possibilitiesMeta Programs: Understanding the 50+ mental shortcuts that run how you show up and why time-focused and possibility-focused people clashProjection & Self-Discovery: How triggers reveal your unconscious programming and what you see in others exists in youMemorable Quotes:"This is the most powerful engine on the face of the planet, and we never got taught how to use it." "We cannot be angry and curious at the same time." "The palette of possibilities - in the moment you have all of these options, but we need to be in remembrance that those are available to us." "We can't see the label on the jar from inside the jar." Practical Leadership Tools:Wear a bead bracelet and snap it when you feel reactiveSay "I wonder" to shift your brain state instantlyPractice viewing challenges from multiple distancesVisit art museums to train your brain to shift perspectiveKey Takeaways:Your brain is powerful, but we were never taught how to use itCuriosity shifts everything - you cannot be angry and curious simultaneouslyPerspective creates possibilities - step back from problems to see solutionsBehaviors that trigger you reveal your own unconscious patternsSmall leadership adjustments create massive organizational impact Connect with Tracy Benson: LinkedIn: Tracy Benson Free Tool: DM Tracy on LinkedIn with "expand" to receive a complimentary foveal vs. peripheral view tool Perfect for leaders who want to understand how their brain works and use neuroscience to transform their leadership presence, decision-making, and relationships. 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts #Leadership #Mindset #Transformation #Purpose #Growth

The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business RealityHost: Julie Riga | Episode Type: Solo Episode OverviewThis isn't your typical year-in-review episode. Julie Riga gets brutally honest about what 2025 really looked like as a small business owner: the hustle that led nowhere, the rejection that stung, the corporate friends who disappeared, and the Friday nights spent wondering if she should just get a "real job" again. But here's the twist: she's not quitting. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Julie shares the unspoken truth about entrepreneurship, the non-negotiable realities of building a business, and why finding your purpose is worth every frustrating moment. If you're a business owner, leader, or anyone chasing a dream while wondering if you should give up, this episode is your permission to keep going. The Truth About 2025: My Raw Review of Small Business Reality What You'll Learn:Julie pulls back the curtain on her 2025: months of hustling with no results, feeling stuck, battling frustration and depression, and watching corporate connections fade away. This is the messy middle nobody talks about. But it's also a powerful reminder that transformation doesn't come from comfort zones, and legacy isn't built by quitting when things get hard. Key Topics:The Three Non-Negotiables of Small Business Success: Community Over Isolation - Why doing it alone guarantees you'll quitSales as Your Lifeline - 80% of your first two years is selling (no sugarcoating)The Pivot-Fast Mindset - Learn what doesn't work and change it immediately The Reality Check: Why 2025 felt harder than previous yearsGetting real about depression, frustration, and wanting to quit every FridayThe corporate friends who disappeared and the strangers who stepped upWhat keeps Julie going despite the brutal journeyMemorable Quotes:"2025 kicked my butt. If it didn't kick your butt, let me know in the chat." "If you're not willing to say that 80% of my time in the very beginning is gonna be devoted to selling, just go get a job." "Complete strangers will help me first than some of the people I worked very closely with." "I am a catalyst for you to reach your next level of success." Key Takeaways:Don't do it alone - Community is essentialEmbrace sales reality or get a jobPivot fast, learn fasterNever get comfortable with your pipelineTake care of yourself through the brutal journeyRemember why you startedAbout Julie Riga:Julie specializes in helping leaders and business owners dig deep to understand their true purpose, facilitate that purpose in their lives, and break through to their next level of success with clarity and confidence. Services: One-on-One Coaching | Leadership Programs | Training Programs | Brand Building Ready for transformation? Schedule a call with Julie and start facilitating your purpose. 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts 💡 Share with entrepreneurs who need to hear: "Don't give up" #StayOnCoursePodcast #PurposeDrivenLeadership #SmallBusinessReality #EntrepreneurMindset #LeadershipGrowth

No Followers Needed: How to Build a Six-Figure UGC BusinessGuest: Megan Collier, Content Creator & UGC Coach Host: Julie Riga About This EpisodeJulie sits down with Megan Collier, who built a six-figure User Generated Content (UGC) business in just 14 months starting with only 200 followers. Megan now helps GenXers and Boomers launch successful UGC careers, and she's here to break down exactly how everyday people can get paid by brands without any influencer status. What is UGC?User Generated Content (UGC) is when creators get paid by brands to create short-form video content (typically 30-60 seconds) without posting to their own social media. Instead, brands use this authentic content for their own ads, emails, websites, and marketing channels. In This Episode, We Talk About:The three essential ingredients for UGC success (hint: talent isn't one of them)Why age is actually an asset in this industry, not a barrierHow Megan landed her first deal within 10 days and what she did to make it happenThe exact step-by-step process to get started, even if you've never created content beforeWhat equipment you actually need (spoiler: probably less than $50)Real student success stories, including a 52-year-old who made $11,500 in 63 daysHow to price your work so you're not leaving money on the tableWhy brands are desperately searching for GenX and Boomer creators right nowThe biggest mistakes new creators make and how to avoid themWhether UGC will survive in an AI and metaverse worldWhy This MattersIf you've ever thought "I'm too old for social media" or "I don't have enough followers to work with brands," this episode will completely change your perspective. Megan proves that the barrier to entry has never been lower, and the demand has never been higher. Who Should ListenGenXers and Baby Boomers looking for flexible incomeAnyone intimidated by traditional influencer marketingPeople seeking a side hustle with low upfront investmentAnyone who's ever wanted to work with brands but thought they needed thousands of followers firstGuest BackgroundMegan Collier discovered UGC in August 2022 while working full-time and needing a flexible side hustle. Within 14 months, she scaled her UGC business to replace her six-figure corporate income. Now she helps everyday people unlock this valuable income stream through her coaching platform. Connect with Megan CollierTikTok: @megan_ugcInstagram: @Megan_UGCWebsite: https://www.megancollierugc.comYou don't need followers, fancy equipment, or years of experience to start earning with UGC. You just need a willingness to learn, the confidence to know your worth, and the ability to have fun with it. 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts 💡 Share this episode with anyone exploring a new income stream or creative pursuit To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit: 🌐 www.julieriga.com 🌟 Explore transformative coaching sessions at julieriga.com/lead 🔗 Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/julieriga I'm Julie Riga—a leadership coach, speaker, certified trainer, author, voice actor, and proud host of the Stay On Course podcast. With over 20 years of experience in the pharma, biotech, and life sciences industries, I specialize in empowering high-achieving professionals to lead with clarity, purpose, and resilience. I work with: CEOs, Founders, and Executives who want to lead with authenticity and impactC-suite leaders and senior managers looking to improve executive presence and public speakingEntrepreneurs and business owners navigating growth, leadership challenges, and career fulfillmentHR and operations leader

Three Ingredients for Building Unbreakable Resilience: Lessons from a Firefighter's JourneyGuest: Gary Roberts - 20-Year Firefighter & Founder of Neurovus Host: Julie Riga OverviewJulie sits down with Gary Roberts, a 20-year Fort Lauderdale firefighter who transformed personal tragedy into mission. After losing his daughter to an opioid overdose on her 27th birthday, Gary created Neurovus, an AI-powered mental health platform combining biometrics, voice-driven AI, and evidence-based therapies to provide support before crisis hits. Gary shares three essential ingredients for building unbreakable resilience: consistency, continuous learning, and mental toughness. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone overcoming obstacles, this episode offers actionable insights on moving forward when life knocks you down. Three Ingredients for Building Unbreakable Resilience: Lessons from a Firefighter's Journey About Gary RobertsGary is a 20-year veteran firefighter and founder of Neurovus. His journey includes breaking nearly every bone in his body, being stranded in Florida with nothing, building multiple fitness studios, and facing devastating loss. As a hazmat special operations team member, Gary combines fitness discipline, firefighting mental toughness, and compassionate understanding from profound personal loss. Fun Fact: Despite being a fitness professional, Gary's favorite food is strawberry cheesecake! The Three Ingredients for Resilience1. Consistency: Moving the Needle Forward Do one thing daily to create momentumTake one step at a time (staircase principle)Track progress visuallyFocus on the end result, not difficulty2. Continuous Learning: Every Experience is Education Treat failures as curves to overcome, not mistakesListen more than you speakBuild partnerships through genuine curiosityLearn from every experience3. Mental Toughness: Work Through What You Don't Want to Do Physical and mental fitness work togetherFocus on post-completion feelingsThe 100 pull-ups principle: if you can do one, you can do 100Practice breathing techniques for decompressionTeach loved ones to ask for "help" not present "problems"First Responder RealityGary reveals harsh truths: no formal mental health training, "suck it up" culture, 24/7 alertness, constant worst-case thinking, high divorce rates, and PTSD indicators. First responders live in perpetual readiness, impacting home life. Key Quotes"It's not how hard you get punched down, it's how many times you get back up." "Think of the end result first, not what you're doing to get there." "Resilience becomes part of you, not an obstacle to overcome." The Neurovus SolutionInnovative platform using biometric integration, voice-driven AI, and evidence-based therapies for proactive mental health support—designed for first responders and high performers. Connect with GaryWebsite: www.neurovus.com Instagram: @GRoberts_PIR Email: [email protected] Key TakeawaysConsistency beats intensityLearn from failuresMental and physical health connectVisualize end resultsResilience is built through persistenceYour story determines outcomesSeek help before crisisTake one step at a time Legacy: Honoring Gary's daughter and Julie's father, whose teaching "seven times down, eight times up" captures resilience. 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course #StayOnCourse #Resilience #MentalToughness #FirstResponders #Leadership

This episode marks an exciting milestone for the podcast. After launching in 2022, the show has officially begun charting on Apple Podcasts, and the momentum is just getting started. The focus for this year is clear and ambitious becoming a Top Ten podcast in the Entrepreneurship category. Listeners are invited into the Before I Lead community on Skool, a free space designed for small business owners who want greater visibility, stronger leadership skills, and real connection. The community offers weekly networking and conversations centered on growing and leading a business with intention. The heart of the podcast is learning directly from small business owners and experts who share their real world ingredients for success. Topics include marketing, sales, lead generation, podcasting, social media visibility, and using speaking as a powerful accelerator for business growth. This episode also highlights the importance of visibility through podcasting and stages both local and virtual, along with a behind the scenes look at attending Podfest in Orlando to deepen conversations around podcast monetization and audience growth. Rooted in legacy, the podcast continues to honor the influence of Julie’s father, Ennio Riga, whose mentorship and impact shaped generations. His legacy inspires the mission to help others share meaningful messages that create transformation. The episode closes with insight into the Before I Speak program, which supports emerging speakers in building confidence, presence, and a powerful internal story before stepping onto any stage. This podcast exists to educate, inspire, and equip listeners to grow intentionally, lead boldly, and stay on course as they build businesses and legacies that matter. To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you stay on course and lead with confidence and clarity, visit: 🌐 www.julieriga.com 🌟 Explore transformative coaching sessions at www.beforeilead.com 🔗 Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/julieriga I'm Julie Riga—a leadership coach, speaker, certified trainer, author, voice actor, and proud host of the Stay On Course podcast. With over 20 years of experience in the pharma, biotech, and life sciences industries, I specialize in empowering high-achieving professionals to lead with clarity, purpose, and resilience. I work with: CEOs, Founders, and Executives who want to lead with authenticity and impactC-suite leaders and senior managers looking to improve executive presence and public speakingEntrepreneurs and business owners navigating growth, leadership challenges, and career fulfillmentHR and operations leaders seeking strategic development tools and confidence coachingMany of my clients come to me when they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or out of alignment. They’re looking to: Boost leadership clarity and overcome self-doubtDevelop executive presence and master public speakingReignite their purpose and unlock their full potentialBalance career ambition with personal fulfillmentStay resilient in high-pressure environmentsWhether you're a tech founder, a service-based business owner, or a corporate executive ready to elevate your leadership game, my programs—including Before I Lead, Before I Speak, Before I Sell, and Before I Calendar—are designed to help you take action, grow sustainably, and leave a lasting legacy. Discover your purpose. Stay on Course. Leave a Legacy.

Beyond the Game: How One NBA Player Transformed Adversity Into ImpactGuest: Gary Forbes, Former NBA Player, Published Author & Founder of Soul Survivors Host: Julie Riga OverviewIn this inspiring episode of the Stay On Course podcast, host Julie Riga sits down with former NBA player Gary Forbes to explore what happens when life takes you beyond the game you thought would define you. Gary shares his powerful journey from professional basketball to purpose-driven entrepreneurship, revealing the three essential ingredients that transformed his challenges with Type 1 diabetes into a platform for empowering others. This conversation is a masterclass in authentic leadership, resilience, and creating meaningful impact through intentional living. Beyond the Game: How One NBA Player Transformed Adversity Into ImpactAbout Gary ForbesGary Forbes is a former professional basketball player who spent time in the NBA and played for 13-15 different teams across various leagues worldwide. Since retiring six years ago, Gary has evolved into a purpose-driven entrepreneur, published author, and advocate for children with chronic health conditions. Through his platform Soul Survivors, he's created a children's multimedia platform that empowers kids through storytelling, health literacy, and inclusion. Fun Fact: Gary's favorite food is Asian cuisine—especially American Chinese sesame chicken and anything Korean his partner makes. The Three Ingredients for Success1. Mindset: Building Your Foundation Establishing a strong foundational mindset shapes how you interpret every challengeLearning that one bad moment doesn't define you"How you do one thing is how you do everything" - Coach Travis Ford2. Optimism: Finding the Silver Lining Believing there's always a silver lining in every situationUnderstanding adversity as preparation for your purposeThe "aha moments" that reveal why you went through challenges3. Consistency & Sticktoitiveness: The Power of Commitment Doing mundane, repetitive work consistently every single dayThe 10,000-hour rule: Gary became a professional twice (athlete and author)Getting 1% better every day creates an extraordinary lifeMemorable Quotes"Your present situation is not your final destination." "No testimony without a test." "Everything that we can touch, feel started with a thought. If your thoughts become reality, so think good things." "You have 100% chance to do anything you want in life." "All work is easy work—it's just work." Key MomentsHow a fourth-grader was inspired to try out for basketball despite Type 1 diabetesGary's daily NBA routine: 7am workouts to late-night skill sessionsThe journey from dreaming of a 15-20 year NBA career to discovering true purposeCreating Soul Survivors to gamify health and wellness for childrenThe mindset shift: Even Steph Curry only makes 4 out of 10 shotsSoul Survivors PlatformGary's multimedia platform provides empowerment and encouragement for children with chronic health conditions, helping students, educators, and hospitals improve cultural competency through inclusion and health literacy. The Soul Survivors app launches next month, inspiring kids to see themselves as superheroes. Key TakeawaysEstablish a strong mindset foundation—it shapes everythingThere's always a silver lining; transformation is always possibleSuccess comes from consistent daily action and dedicationYour authentic journey inspires others by living your best lifeLet go of self-imposed limitations—your mind creates your realityConnect with Gary ForbesSoul Survivors Platform: thesolesurvivors.comSocial Media: YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, FacebookConnect with Julie RigaPodcast: Stay On Course PodcastPrograms: Before I LeadWebsite: julieriga.com/lead 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts 💡 Perfect for anyone ready to transform adversity into opportunity #Leadership #PurposeDriven #Transformation #Resilience #AuthenticGrowth

Embark on an unbelievable journey with Blaine Bartlett, a leadership expert and bestselling author, as he unveils the secrets to entrepreneurial success and the soul of business on the latest episode of the Stay on Course Podcast. Discover the transformative power of mindset, overcoming fear, and the terror barrier as essential steps in personal and professional growth. Dive deep into the realms of imagination and learn how it shapes reality, driving innovation in the business world. Blaine Bartlett, with his #1 international bestseller "Compassionate Capitalism," guides you on a thought-provoking exploration of leadership development, compassionate capitalism, and the journey of the soul, offering valuable tips and insights that will motivate you to lead with purpose and abundance in both your professional and personal life. Tune in to Stay on Course Podcast for an enriching conversation that challenges your inner dialogue, paving the way for scrumptious success and an extraordinary journey toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. 🚀💡 #LeadershipDevelopment #CompassionateCapitalism #JourneyOfTheSoul #StayOnCoursePodcast #Success #Mindset #Imagination #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #ThoughtLeadership #BusinessInsights #BlaineBartlett #Motivation The Unbelievable Journey to the Soul for Leadership with Blaine Barlett Join me on the latest episode of the Stay on Course Podcast, featuring the remarkable Blaine Bartlett! 🚀 We're diving deep into the profound wisdom of leadership development, compassion in capitalism, and the journey of the soul. ✨ In this episode "Journey of the Soul," Blaine Bartlett takes us on a transformative exploration into the heart and soul of leadership, revealing the essential elements that connect us all in the world of business and beyond. 🌍 Here are some key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: 1️. Mindset: Uncover how our mindset is everything and learn how overcoming fear and terror barrier is crucial for personal and professional growth. 2️. Imagination: Explore the power of imagination in shaping our reality and driving innovation in the business world. 3️. Conversation: Discover how our experiences of the soul are intricately tied to the conversations we have within ourselves. These inner dialogues can either hold us back or propel us toward success, shaping the very essence of our personal and professional lives. 🗣️✨ Blaine Bartlett, the author of the #1 international bestseller "Compassionate Capitalism: A Journey to the Soul of Business," has personally impacted the lives of over one million people worldwide. 📚✨ Tune in to this thought-provoking episode on Stay on Course Podcast and let's embark on a journey to the soul together with Blaine Bartlett! 🎧💫 #LeadershipDevelopment #CompassionateCapitalism #JourneyOfTheSoul #StayOnCoursePodcast #Leadership #Mindset #Imagination #InnerConversations #PersonalDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #ThoughtLeadership #BusinessInsights #julieriga #pharma #pharmacoach To learn more about Julie Riga and her mission to help you Stay On Course, visit her website: www.stayoncourse.io Julie Riga is a certified coach, trainer, speaker and author with over 20 years of experience in the Pharma Industry. Julie’s education is vast with studies that include business, communications, training and executive coaching. Julie started on this journey because she had a strong desire to pass on the knowledge and skills passed on to her by her father, Ennio Riga, and inspirational man who taught her how to keep going irrespective of the challenges that life may present you with. Based in New Jersey, Julie have travelled the world supporting corporations, business leaders and individuals on their journey of empowerment and growth. Discover your purpose, Stay on Course, Leave a Legacy #pharma #lifescienceleadership #biotech #leadership #stayoncourse #julieriga

From Corporate Ladder to Freedom: The Franchise Path to Business OwnershipGuest: Doris Fink, President of Plan B 2000 Inc | Host: Julie Riga OverviewJulie sits down with Doris Fink, who turned an unexpected $300,000 opportunity into two decades of helping professionals create their Plan B. Doris shares her journey from single mom working three jobs to successful business owner, revealing the truth nobody talks about—why the first two years are hardest and how franchise ownership provides the structure that makes all the difference. If you're stuck in corporate America or ready for your Phase 2 career, this conversation will inspire you to leap with clarity and confidence. About This EpisodeDoris and Julie explore Phase 1 versus Phase 2 careers, the power of structure in entrepreneurship, and why passion alone isn't enough. Doris shares authentic insights including sleepless nights, tough decisions, and realizing she'd built someone else's dream—plus practical guidance for professionals ready for business ownership with purpose. Guest BackgroundDoris Fink, President of Plan B 2000 Inc, has over 20 years helping professionals build lives of freedom, fulfillment, and legacy through smart business ownership. Her journey spans healthcare executive to diagnostic business owner to franchise success. Fun Fact: Favorite dessert is sunshine cake with chocolate in the frosting. Key TopicsThe Entrepreneurship Journey: A $300,000 opportunity that changed everythingPhase 1 (career you need) vs. Phase 2 (career you want)Years 1-3 truth: Year 3 is when you turn the cornerThree Ingredients for Success: Interest in business developmentGreat interpersonal skillsBusiness sense or knowing where to get help Bonus: A clear WHYMemorable Quotes"I had just built somebody else's dream.""Year 1 you're covering expenses. Year 2 becomes steady. Year 3 you see earning capability and believe it will work.""Follow your heart and get advice from someone walking the walk, not just talking the talk."Financial RealityYear 1: Investment phase, expenses outweigh incomeYear 2: Steady but supplementalYear 3: The turning pointCapital needs often misunderstood Who Should Consider ThisProfessionals 45-65 who've climbed the ladder, been passed over or laid off, or asked to compromise values. Anyone with sleepless nights knowing they need change—with family support and right timing. The Passion TrapDon't confuse passion with business sense. Many love pets but a pet business might be wrong. Find the intersection of interest, skill set, and market opportunity. Plan B 2000 ApproachNo-fee, no-pressure consultations assessing family support, timing, capital, and skills. Doris builds friendships, not just client relationships. Questions to AskDo I have the energy?Do I have the personality for uncertainty?Do I have family support?Is timing right?What's my WHY?Connect with Doris FinkLinkedIn: Doris Fink (in Florida, not Germany!)Company: Plan B 2000 IncKey TakeawaysCorporate skills transferStructure accelerates successYear 3 is the turning pointFamily support essentialGet guidance from experienced advisors.Final Wisdom"Try the sunshine cake!" But seriously: "Follow your heart. Just do what you feel is right and get advice from someone who has the experience and not only is talking the talk but is walking the walk." Perfect for anyone in corporate America wondering "is there something more?" and leaders ready to create their Plan B with clarity and confidence. 🎧 Subscribe to Stay On Course 💡 Share with professionals ready for Phase 2