The Influence Exchange

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Stop Blaming Technology: What Actually Makes a Business Grow | James Lang Oct 21, 2026

Show notes

What if technology isn’t actually the reason your business is struggling to grow?

In episode 61 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with James Lang for a conversation about business growth, leadership, operations, technology, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence.

James explains why many problems that appear to be technology problems are actually systems, people, or culture problems, and why simply investing in another tool won’t fix a business that hasn't addressed the underlying issue.

They also discuss the difference between being busy and actually making progress, why businesses need systems that can scale beyond the owner, and how leaders can approach AI as the workplace continues to change.

James also shares a personal perspective on success, legacy, and why he believes progress is success.

In this conversation:

Why technology isn't always the real problem

Systems, people, and culture in business growth

Being busy vs. actually moving forward

Building a business that can scale

How AI is changing the workplace

Why human leadership still matters in an AI-driven world

Looking beyond money when defining success

Progress, purpose, and legacy

If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader trying to grow without simply adding more technology, this conversation will challenge you to look at what's really holding your organization back.

James Website: https://overlang.com

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

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Stop Drifting Through Life: The Power of Intentional Living | Larry O’Nan Oct 14, 2026

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Are you living with intention, or are you simply allowing life to happen?

In episode 60 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with Larry O’Nan, author of Intentional Living and Giving, to explore what it means to live a purposeful life, set meaningful goals and make decisions that align with your values.

Drawing on decades of leadership, fundraising and mentoring, Larry shares why writing down your goals matters, how accountability shapes your decisions and why intentional living is about more than personal achievement.

We also explore navigating major life changes, developing daily discipline, seeking guidance from others and finding fulfillment through generosity and helping people.

Whether you're looking for direction, struggling to follow through on your goals or simply questioning what's next, this conversation invites you to consider how you're spending your time and what kind of life you want to build.

In this conversation, we explore:

Why so many people drift through life without a clear direction

The importance of written goals and personal accountability

How small, intentional decisions shape your future

Finding purpose through leadership, service and giving

Building daily habits and remaining intentional through life's changes

Your life doesn't have to be left to chance. Start by deciding what matters to you.

Larry's website: https://larryonan.com

Larry's Books: https://larryonan.com/shop

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

Follow The Influence Exchange on social media.

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-influence-exchange/id1853094614

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Failure Is Temporary: How Setbacks Build Stronger Leaders | Chris Sherian Oct 09, 2026

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What happens when everything you've worked for starts falling apart? How do you rebuild your confidence, your business and your life when the path forward isn't clear?

In Episode 59 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with entrepreneur Chris Sherian for a conversation about failure, resilience, leadership and the lessons that come from starting over.

After nearly four decades in business, Chris has experienced major setbacks, including the impact of the 2008–2009 recession. He shares how those experiences reshaped his approach to entrepreneurship and why he believes failure and challenges are temporary.

We also explore his personal journey through major life changes, completing two Ironman triathlons, overcoming prostate cancer and discovering the importance of mentors, community and a strong mindset.

Chris shares practical lessons for business owners, including why scaling a business before fixing its problems can make those problems worse, and why treating employees well is essential to creating a positive customer experience.

Whether you're rebuilding after a setback, leading a team or working toward a personal goal, this conversation offers perspectives on persistence, growth and moving forward when life doesn't go as planned.

Connect with The Influence Exchange: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or follow on Spotify, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from the conversation.

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

Follow The Influence Exchange on social media.

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You’re Not Behind, You Just Haven’t Started Moving Yet | Willie Blake Oct 07, 2026

Show notes

Do you ever feel like you’re falling behind in life, business, or your personal goals?

What if you’re not actually behind, you just haven’t started moving yet?

In episode 58 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with coach, speaker, author, and entrepreneur Willie Blake for a conversation about overcoming self-doubt, breaking through overwhelm, and creating momentum through small, intentional actions.

Willie shares how growing up with dyslexia shaped the way he saw himself and eventually helped him recognize the strengths that can come with thinking differently. He also discusses his work helping neurodivergent professionals and entrepreneurs move forward when big goals feel overwhelming.

You’ll hear about Willie’s GPS Goal Method, Get Clear, Plan the Route, and Start Moving, as well as his 2% Rule, which focuses on taking one manageable step instead of trying to change everything at once.

Willie also shares a simple strategy called “One Minute, One Thing” for those moments when even getting started feels difficult.

Because sometimes the biggest obstacle isn’t how far you have to go.

It’s getting yourself out of park.

You’re not behind. You just need to start moving.

Willie's Website: https://coachwillieblake.com/

Willie's Free ebook: https://coachwillieblake.com/freegift

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

Follow The Influence Exchange on social media.

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The Battle Within: Rebuilding Yourself After Life Changes You | TJ Baird Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

Sometimes the hardest battle isn't the one happening around you. It's the one happening within you.

In episode 57 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, author, father, and founder of Warrior Dad Stories TJ Baird for a deeply personal conversation about resilience, leadership, family, adversity, and rebuilding yourself after life changes you.

After 32 years of Army life and multiple combat deployments, TJ realized he was no longer the same person he had once been. One of the defining moments in his journey came when his six-year-old daughter told him she was afraid of him. That moment helped put TJ on what he now calls his Reforged journey, not trying to become who he was before, but working toward the person he wanted to become.

TJ also shares his powerful concept of the Two Warriors Within. Both warriors know your dreams, your failures, your fears, and your weaknesses because they are both part of you. Every day presents a choice: Which warrior will you feed?

We discuss TJ's recovery from traumatic brain injuries, accepting help when you need it, finding purpose when you feel lost, crossing the starting line, family and brotherhood, leadership, storytelling, and the people who helped TJ rebuild along the way.

TJ also opens up about his book Warrior Dad and why sharing our experiences, even the difficult ones can become a way of serving others.

His final message is simple:

Tell your story. Have the courage to share what you've experienced because your story may help someone else continue walking their own path

TJ Website: https://www.warriordadstories.com/

TJ: The Warrior Within: https://youtu.be/Hz3U1szIJ_I?si=Li07XlRvVWTcDX3h

Buy TJ Book: https://a.co/d/03IKTKAK

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

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Small Decisions, Big Shifts: How Everyday Choices Change Your Life | Chip Scholz Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

What if the biggest changes in your life don't begin with one huge moment, but with one small decision?

In episode 56 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with executive coach, leadership strategist, and author Chip Scholz for a powerful conversation about personal growth, resilience, leadership, and how the choices we make every day shape who we become.

After experiencing career setbacks, being laid off, surviving a life-changing stroke, and rebuilding his life, Chip gained a new perspective on what it means to live and lead with intention. He shares why lasting transformation isn't created by one dramatic breakthrough, but through the small decisions we make consistently.

Chip also breaks down his Five Cs: Context, Clarity, Conditioning, Choice, and Character, a framework designed to help people understand where they are, determine what they truly want, develop the right mindset, take action, and practice personal accountability.

We also explore the difference between responsibility and control, why great leaders coach rather than dictate, the dangers of micromanagement, workplace culture, business ownership, resilience, and learning when it's time to let go.

Whether you're navigating a transition, leading a team, building a business, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, this conversation is a reminder that your future is being shaped by the decisions you're making today.

Chip's Website: https://scholzandassociates.com/

Buy Chip Book: https://a.co/d/0j9ljNEx

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

Follow The Influence Exchange on social media.

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How to Handle Rejection in Sales and Turn Every “No” Into Growth | Bryan Charleau Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

Rejection is part of life, but in sales, hearing “no” can become part of your everyday routine. The question is: How do you stop taking rejection personally and use it to grow?

In episode 55 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with sales professional and Pitching Sales author Bryan Charleau for a conversation about rejection, resilience, confidence, and what it really takes to build a successful career in sales.

Bryan shares why sales professionals will often hear “no” far more than “yes,” and why learning to separate rejection from your self-worth is essential for long-term success.

We also explore why you don't have to be the loudest or most outgoing person in the room to succeed in sales. Bryan explains how introverts can become exceptional sales professionals by developing skills such as active listening, understanding the customer's needs, and becoming comfortable with silence.

You'll also hear why continued learning can directly affect your earning potential. A new closing technique, a better way to handle objections, or simply asking a better question could change the outcome of your very next conversation.

In this episode, we discuss rejection, sales mindset, active listening, confidence, personal growth, professional development, resilience, and the lessons Bryan has learned throughout his career.

Whether you work in sales, lead a team, own a business, or simply want to become better at handling rejection, this conversation is a reminder that every “no” can become an opportunity to learn, improve, and keep moving forward.

Bryan Website: https://www.pitchingsalesconsulting.com/

Contact Bryan: https://www.pitchingsalesconsulting.com/contact

Buy Bryan Book: https://a.co/d/08KFr85M

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

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Why Choosing Yourself Isn’t Selfish | Catherine Cristani Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

When was the last time you truly chose yourself?

In episode 54 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with Catherine Cristani for an honest conversation about relationships, loneliness, self-worth, vulnerability, emotional connection, and what it really means to put yourself first.

Many of us spend years trying to meet other people's expectations, whether in relationships, careers, friendships, or family, without realizing how much of ourselves we may be losing along the way.

Catherine challenges us to look inward and ask some difficult questions:

What is it costing you to stay?

Who are you underneath it all?

What actually brings you joy?

Together, J.V. and Catherine explore why people sometimes enter or remain in relationships because they're afraid of being alone, and why learning to enjoy your own company can be an important part of understanding yourself.

Catherine also shares practical insights around communication and conflict, including the “power of the pause” - creating space before reacting so you can better understand what you're feeling and respond rather than simply trying to win an argument.

The conversation explores vulnerability, emotional triggers, accountability, human connection, and recognizing when a relationship or situation no longer aligns with who you're becoming.

And at the heart of the conversation is a simple message:

It's okay to choose yourself and choosing yourself isn't selfish.

Choosing yourself doesn't mean you stop caring about everyone else. Sometimes it means finally giving yourself the same respect, attention, and consideration you've been giving to everyone around you.

If you've ever struggled with loneliness, lost yourself in a relationship, questioned whether putting yourself first was selfish, or wondered what you truly want from your life, this conversation is for you.

The Influence Exchange features authentic conversations about personal growth, mindset, leadership, resilience, relationships, wealth, and the experiences that shape our lives.

Catherine Website: https://willowhealing.org/

Buy Catherine Books: https://willowhealing.org/collection/books-and-e-books

Catherine Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/willow-healing-matters-podcast/id1760975061

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

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You Are Enough: How to Break Free From Self-Doubt & Fear | Steve Barton Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

What if the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want is the belief that you're not enough?

In this episode of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with entrepreneur, executive coach, and creator of The Game of 10, Steve Barton, for a powerful conversation about self-doubt, fear, happiness, overthinking, forgiveness, and recognizing your own worth.

Steve shares his journey from taking over his family's flower business at just 22 years old to growing it from approximately $200,000 to more than $2 million, and the lessons he learned about mistakes, success, and happiness along the way.

You'll also hear Steve break down his Game of 10, including the simple but powerful statements:

I am enough.

I do enough.

I have enough.

Steve explains how these statements can help quiet the mental chatter, challenge limiting beliefs, and bring you back to the present moment.

J.V. and Steve also explore why we're so afraid of making mistakes, where self-doubt comes from, how gratitude can shift your perspective, why forgiving yourself can sometimes be harder than forgiving others, and what it takes to stop allowing guilt and fear to control your life.

If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled with confidence, overthought your decisions, or wondered whether you're doing enough, this conversation will challenge you to look at yourself differently.

Steve leaves us with one simple message: “Be yourself, and that's enough.”

The Influence Exchange, authentic conversations about personal growth, mindset, leadership, resilience, wealth, and the experiences that shape who we become.

Steve Website: https://www.stevebartoncoaching.com/

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

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Life Knocked Her Down Again and Again - She Refused to Quit | Sue Paulson Sep 04, 2026

Show notes

What if the hardest moments of your life were actually preparing you for your greatest purpose?

In episode 52 of The Influence Exchange, J.V. sits down with award-winning author, speaker, and personal growth mentor Sue Paulson for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, self-love, overcoming adversity, and discovering the magnificence that already exists within you.

Sue's journey is one of extraordinary perseverance. She has experienced, Two divorces, Two bankruptcies, Multiple failed businesses, A near-death experience, Two battles with cancer. Yet through every setback, she discovered something many people spend a lifetime searching for, Your circumstances do not define your future.

In this episode, we discuss

Why failure is a stepping stone to success

Learning to love yourself before loving others

The powerful "100 Things I Love About Myself" exercise

How journaling can transform your mindset

Why comparison steals confidence

he difference between self-improvement and embracing your magnificence

Finding hope during life's darkest seasons

The lessons Sue learned through cancer and healing

Why gratitude changes the way you see the world

The four inner power tools every person already possesses

One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation: You are far stronger than any challenge life places in front of you.

Sue also shares her four "Power Tools" for overcoming adversity: Determination, Courage, Faith, Hope. Whether you're navigating loss, self-doubt, failure, illness, or simply trying to find your purpose, this conversation will remind you that your greatest strength has been within you all along.

Sue's Magnificent Misery: https://draft2digital.com/book/1023929

Sue's Healing Call of Cancer: https://draft2digital.com/book/2278392

Sue's Podcast: https://magnifywithsue.com

Sue's Website: https://suepaulson.com/

Host J.V.

Episodes released weekly!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and also available on all major podcast platforms.

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