The Heart of Business (Mo Fathelbab)

We are thrilled to announce the launch of "The Heart of Business", a podcast that will explore the personal side of business.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

"It's okay to be independent, but no reason to be alone."

In the very first episode of "The Heart of Business," host Mo Fathelbab delves deep into the early years of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), then Young Entrepreneurs Organization, with none other than Verne Harnish. Get ready to embark on a journey through the heart and soul of entrepreneurship as Verne shares anecdotes and invaluable insights from the formative days of EO. Hear about the trials, triumphs, and transformative experiences that shaped the organization and the visionary individuals behind it. Even if you thought you knew the story, you will undoubtedly learn something new from this candid conversation! 

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Resources:

• About Verne Harnish, CEO and Founder of Scaling Up, a global executive education and coaching company.
• Entrepreneurs' Organization: a global membership community of entrepreneurs by entrepreneurs

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

"It's perfectly okay to spiral down. The sooner you can see it, the sooner you can make the choice to go back up. That's breakthrough."

Robert Rothman is the President of Gap International, has been with the company for more than thirty years, and has been instrumental in building the company to its current size and scope.  As a consultant, Mr. Rothman is a strategic partner to CEOs and C-level executives in major, multinational organizations where he leads breakthrough growth and performance initiatives. In this candid discussion with Mo Fathelbab, Bob will share his insights into the concept of creating a breakthrough environment within organizations, emphasizing the importance of understanding and cultivating the many unseen factors that shape this environment. These factors and embracing new ways of seeing challenges and setbacks can propel us to achieve remarkable feats.

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Resources:
Gap International

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

"Humans have a hunger to talk about their inner lives. Unfortunately, they've never had a teacher to show them how. They thrive in this space of wanting to say 'This is who I am.'"

For over three decades, Jim Mitchell, a seasoned facilitator and leadership consultant, has been the driving force behind the development of high-performance groups, cultures, and individuals through his unique approach to vulnerability-based leadership coaching, consulting, and facilitation. In this refreshingly candid and authentic conversation, Jim shares profound insights and personal anecdotes that delve into the intricacies of family dynamics, emotional literacy, and personal pain that often leads to transformative change. From navigating the complexities of childhood in Arizona to overcoming emotional barriers in adulthood, Jim's narrative takes us through the highs and lows of his life in pursuit of finding meaning. As Jim reflects on his experiences, he emphasizes the transformative power of pain and growth, advocating for emotional expression, vulnerability, and personal acceptance. Listen to hear the compelling story of his personal and professional evolution and witness his unwavering commitment to fostering emotional competency in a world facing unprecedented challenges.

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Resources: Jim Mitchell - Leadership Magic

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

In this episode, Mo sits down with Neal Lappe, a serial entrepreneur and peer group facilitator, who happens to be one of the first members of the International Facilitators Organization. The conversation delves into Neal's journey, starting from his early years in St. Louis to serving as an executive in a Fortune 500 company to his ventures in digital marketing and beyond. Neal shares the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path. The episode is not just a journey through Neal's life, but a reflection on the power of vulnerability, peer groups, and the significance of sharing experiences. Listen to gain valuable insights and be inspired by Neal's compelling story of growth, mentorship, and paying it forward in the world of business.

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Resources:
WebStrategies Inc.
Find Neal on LinkedIn
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

"Resilience makes us tolerate stuff we can fix."

A lifelong entrepreneur, Christina Harbridge has been breaking ground for decades. Step into the captivating world of business success and behavioral science in an enlightening conversation with the remarkable Christina Harbridge.

In this thought-provoking episode, Christina shares her extraordinary journey from running an unorthodox call center to becoming a test subject for NASA experiments. Discover how her deep dive into understanding human behavior led her to unlock profound insights into the interplay between physiology and resilience.

From her early entrepreneurial ventures through multiple entrepreneurial successes to musing on what her next chapter will entail, Christina's story is a testament to the transformative potential of empathy-driven leadership and authentic human connection.

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Resources:
Allegory, Inc.
Learn more about at Christina at christinaharbridge.com
Find Christina on LinkedIn
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

When life hands you lemons, you make lemonade. But when life hands you a rollercoaster ride through the world of financial innovation and entrepreneurship, you make a podcast episode worth framing. Bringing to the mic the remarkable Daniel Marcos, co-founder and CEO of Growth Institute, we journey through his life story, filled with the ebbs and flows of a true entrepreneurial spirit. Daniel's path, while anything but ordinary, is a testament to his innovative foresight. Daniel shares the philosophy behind Growth Institute, merging the art of chasing dreams with the science of maintaining stability. His outlook on balancing ambition with personal well-being offers a blueprint for listeners navigating their aspirations. Learn from an individual who has walked through fire and emerged with a perspective that enriches not just his own life, but potentially yours, too.
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Resources:
Growth Institute
Find Daniel on LinkedIn
Find Growth Institute on LinkedIn
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Have you ever considered what it takes to leave behind a life that looks perfect on paper for one that feels perfect in your heart? That's exactly what life coach Kati Jalali did, and she joins us to share the rich tapestry of her journey. From the weight of familial expectations to the release of embracing her true self, Kati's narrative is a masterclass in the art of personal transformation. Our conversation is an intimate look at the challenges and triumphs of swapping a successful career for a calling more in sync with one's identity, all while keeping the humility of a beginner's mindset. In the throes of life's uncertainties, how do we find purpose and peace? We explore the emotional odyssey of embracing life's fleeting nature, reflecting on the profound questions about what it means to lead a meaningful life. Join us for this exploration of the human experience, and may you be inspired to find strength in your own stories of vulnerability.
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Resources:
Find Kati on LinkedIn
Happy Cinnamon Life Coaching
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

When Ed Johnson walks into a room, his presence is felt—part executive coach, part spiritual guide, he has a story that will leave you reflecting on your own path. Our latest episode takes you through Ed's formative years in Virginia to the twists and turns of a career that's anything but linear. His candid recounting of rekindling his spirituality amid the chaos of 9-11 is as moving as it is insightful, providing a vivid backdrop to the lessons he's carried into his current practice.

Ed doesn’t just talk about transformation; he embodies it, sharing how self-discovery has not only shaped his life but also the lives of those he coaches. We delve into the subtleties of personal growth, examining how small changes in perspective, much like course corrections in a journey, can lead to significant shifts in life's trajectory. Prepare to be inspired by a man who understands the power of vulnerability and authenticity, and how they can unlock our full potential.
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Resources:
Find Ed on LinkedIn
Crafted Coach
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

When the world throws curveballs, how do we pivot toward happiness and fulfillment? Miranda Barrett, the trailblazing entrepreneur of Capacity to Scale whose incredible journey from a quaint small-town upbringing to orchestrating global entrepreneurial events exemplifies such a pivot. Miranda's reflections on her father's entrepreneurial influence and her own transformative stint at the White House offer a fascinating backdrop to her decade nurturing the Entrepreneurs Organization's expansion. Her stories of personal growth and seizing unexpected travel opportunities are as enlightening as they are inspiring, painting a vivid picture of the relentless pursuit of development and success.

The serenity of farm life might seem a world away from the entrepreneurial hustle, but this episode proves there's a bridge between the two. Miranda and I discuss the importance of being present, the art of finding joy in simplicity, and the humor that emerges when life takes an unanticipated turn—such as drafting HR memos for farm animals. Together, we share the early moments of a blossoming new business venture, reminding us all that it's the journey, not the destination, that defines the entrepreneurial spirit. 
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Resources:
Find Miranda on LinkedIn
Capacity to Scale
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

What if the keys to resilience and leadership were hidden in your childhood experiences? Join us as we welcome Simone Terry, Executive Vice President of HR for Regiment Security Partners, who takes us on her extraordinary journey from managing her parents' beauty salon to holding a pivotal military role during September 11th. Simone reveals how these formative experiences bestowed her with a unique understanding of business operations and leadership, offering invaluable strategies to manage the mental strain of high-responsibility roles and maintain mental health.

Ever wondered how a coach can inspire life-changing achievements? Simone shares her insights into the profound impact of coaching relationships on athletes, revealing key techniques like building trust, being present, and creating intentional decisions. Her reflections highlight the integration of physical and mental fitness, offering listeners actionable advice on physiological training and sports psychology for those aiming to excel both on and off the field.

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Resources:
Find Simone on LinkedIn
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Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Ever wonder how bouncing back from life's toughest challenges could transform your professional journey? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Steven Krane, president of Rilek Growth Partners and a serial entrepreneur. Steven takes us along his fascinating entrepreneurial path that began at just 16 with a coffee service business he launched in Montreal. From selling that first venture for $150,000 at the age of 22 to expanding Horizon Foods' frozen food home delivery service in the U.S., Steven's story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the extraordinary power of a supportive network.

Steven's candid discussion about his long-term battle with depression and lithium use offers a rare glimpse into the emotional toll of entrepreneurial life. Learn how he navigated the side effects of his medication, which after 25 years led to kidney issues, and the impact of discontinuing it on his relationships—especially with his children. Beyond his personal journey, Steven dives into his innovative marketing strategies, including insights from Dan Sullivan's "Ask Who, Not How." Discover how he leverages connections with high-profile celebrities and CEOs to drive successful campaigns.

From launching a skincare line with supermodel Carol Alt to co-founding 800razors.com and partnering with Mike Tyson on a pain relief cream, Steven's ventures span multiple industries. He even shares insider stories about traveling with Tyson and the exciting twists that come with entrepreneurial life. Finally, Steven discusses his role at Rylick Growth Partners, where he uses his visionary skills to help fellow entrepreneurs unlock new opportunities and scale their businesses. This episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial vision, resilience, and the power of thinking outside the box.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Neil Balter, the ingenious mind behind California Closets and a pioneering force of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), shares his extraordinary journey with us. Imagine a small, passionate group morphing into a global community with over 18,000 entrepreneurs—Neil recounts these early days with vivid anecdotes. Discover how connections formed in those nascent meetings fueled not just his career but a worldwide network of support and inspiration.

Our conversation takes an exciting turn as we explore Neil’s entrepreneurial saga, transforming a simple closet business into a franchise powerhouse. A chance encounter with a Wall Street Journal reporter became the catalyst for explosive growth, demonstrating the power of media and mentorship. Through strategic public relations and invaluable guidance from industry stalwarts like Bill Levine, Neil’s story is a testament to the wonders of storytelling in crafting a legacy.

Shifting gears, we delve into the heartfelt experience of raising a child with autism. Neil opens up about the challenges and triumphs of supporting his son, Jack, underlining the importance of early intervention and community engagement. His dedication to raising awareness and funds for autism is inspiring, proving that kindness and positivity are transformative forces. As we wrap up, our hearts are touched by the personal stories and insights shared, encouraging listeners to embrace uniqueness and find strength in community. Listen, learn, and let these narratives inspire your path to growth.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Join us, as we explore the incredible journey of Rana El Kaliouby, PhD, a trailblazing Egyptian-American entrepreneur and co-founder of BlueTip Ventures. Discover how her time at MIT's Media Lab ignited her passion for entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of Affectiva, a leader in emotion AI technology. Rana shares her candid experiences, from humorous financial jargon misunderstandings to her transformative work in using emotion AI for autism support, mental health diagnostics, and enhancing automotive safety. Her story is a testament to the power of blending emotional intelligence with technology to create meaningful human-centered innovations.

Transitioning to leadership wasn't without its hurdles for Rana, and we delve into the internal struggles entrepreneurs often face, such as overcoming self-doubt. She provides insights into how mentorship and a shift in mindset helped her navigate these challenges, paving the way for the creation of a venture fund dedicated to human-centric AI. Our discussion highlights the dual nature of AI, emphasizing its potential to solve global issues and the responsibility of using it ethically. We stress the importance of raising AI literacy to ensure a safe and promising future.

We also shine a light on pioneering companies like Happy Pillar and SynthPop, which are redefining healthcare with AI innovations. Happy Pillar uses AI to support mental health for families, while SynthPop revolutionizes healthcare operations with automated insurance processes. As we look to the future, the potential of AI agents as collaborative partners comes into focus. I share personal anecdotes, including my mother's influence as a pioneering computer programmer, and offer advice to aspiring AI entrepreneurs on building a competitive edge and investing in self-care. Don't miss the chance to connect with Rana and tune into "Pioneers of AI" for more groundbreaking insights.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Discover the remarkable journey of Andrew Sherman, a founding member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), and a leading voice in the world of entrepreneurship. Andrew, whose career straddles both law and business, brings us a wealth of insights from EO's early days and its growth into a global network supporting entrepreneurs. From the pivotal roles of influencers like Vern Harnish and Michael Dell to the unexpected emergence of robust chapters in St. Louis and Vancouver, Andrew shares personal stories and reflects on EO's unique impact. We also honor the legacy of Steve Mariotti for his transformative work in youth entrepreneurship education.

Andrew's career as an attorney and entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. His story is one of determination, from meeting his wife Judy in law school to the challenges of starting his own solo practice. Andrew's empathy-driven approach to law, where he invests significant time in understanding his clients' ecosystems, sets him apart in the legal landscape. We explore his passion for writing on subjects like governance and strategy, and how these pursuits compliment his legal practice, offering invaluable insights into business development and client relationships.

We confront the pressing issue of workplace disengagement, where a staggering majority of employees feel disconnected. Andrew shares strategies to foster genuine engagement, emphasizing the importance of authentic recognition and leadership connection. We venture into the role of a "business growth lawyer," exploring how Andrew helps clients navigate growth through mergers, acquisitions, and franchising. Lessons from past challenges underscore the value of client diversification, and we begin to uncover what sets high-growth CEOs apart, hinting at traits that drive entrepreneurial success.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

What if embracing vulnerability could transform you into a stronger leader? In this episode, join me for a heartfelt conversation with Doretha Bailey, Strategic Advisor to Executives & Board of Directors | Military Veteran | Keynote Speaker | Fixer - Organizational Development Expert, as she shares her extraordinary journey from military service to HR leadership. Doretha’s story is not just one of professional evolution but also a testament to resilience and the power of mentoring others. Her impactful work with Pathbuilders and dedication to supporting women and military communities are highlighted, showcasing the profound influence of mentorship on career advancement and personal growth.

Imposter syndrome is something many of us face, and understanding its roots can be key to overcoming it. I open up about my own experiences in building Turf Mastery’s first-ever HR department, underscoring the significance of putting people first with initiatives like a non-gender parental leave policy. This episode also sheds light on the crucial role of empathy and understanding in the workplace, especially during personal crises. Our discussions explore how genuine care for employees can lead to a more inclusive and supportive company culture, ultimately contributing to success and retention.

Lastly, we dive into the importance of vulnerability in leadership, sharing personal stories of challenge and triumph. From addressing mental health openly to reclaiming power from past traumas, the conversation emphasizes that true strength comes from embracing one's experiences without stigma. As we wrap up, I express deep gratitude for Doretha’s invaluable insights and contributions to my journey, and we touch on future endeavors, including a book publication and initiatives for homeless veterans. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of gratitude, personal connections, and giving back.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

What if leadership wasn't about wielding authority but about fostering collaboration? Join us as Peter Laughter, a dynamic serial entrepreneur, takes us on an inspiring journey from his roots in the vibrant Lower East Side of Manhattan to becoming a pioneer in transformative leadership. Peter's unexpected shift from social work to stepping into his mother's struggling staffing business unveiled his passion for competitive entrepreneurship and catalyzed his mission to revolutionize outdated leadership models. Discover how his daughter's fresh insights pushed him to challenge the status quo and build enterprises that empower and harness the potential of adaptive teams.

Explore the profound shift towards distributed leadership with Peter as we delve into real-life examples of how listening and valuing diverse perspectives can drive organizational success. From a Quaker school board to his own ventures, Peter recounts experiences that underscore the power of fostering a culture where ideas thrive and employees feel empowered to contribute. Hear about how internal peer interactions can unlock untapped potential within organizations, drawing from Peter's personal transition from entrepreneur to consultant. We also touch upon the timeless wisdom of historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr., illustrating the impact of collective insight and adaptive leadership during times of change.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Ahad Ghadimi, the mastermind behind Forums at Work, joins us to share his remarkable journey from Toronto's vibrant entrepreneurial scene to the international stage. Listen as Ahad recounts growing up in a family-owned restaurant and cafe chain, where his entrepreneurial spirit was sparked early on. From selling pastries in school to crafting DOS programs, each venture was a stepping stone to a bigger vision. 

As we explore how organizational culture can be a game-changer, Ahad shares his transformative experiences from being a young entrepreneur and the effect of forum throughout his life. Discover how he helped craft an environment that encouraged employees to unleash their inner entrepreneurs, emphasizing psychological safety and ownership over traditional financial incentives. We also discuss the power of forums and peer groups in personal growth. Join us for an inspiring conversation where business acumen, emotional connections, and a shared vision pave the way for success.

Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.