Unlocking Potential: Jesse Rhodes Jr. on Embracing Breakthroughs and Taking Ownership. In this episode, Jesse Rhodes Jr. shares powerful insights on navigating career transitions, overcoming fears, and harnessing the power of ownership and authenticity. His journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship and impactful passion projects showcases how embracing change and speaking your truth can lead to extraordinary results.

Key Topics:

• The importance of speaking dreams into existence and the role of accountability
• How authentic self-ownership transforms personal and professional success
• The significance of mentors and support systems in career growth
• Cultural shifts when moving between consulting and corporate giants like Amazon, Target, Walmart
• Practical risk management for life decisions, relationships, and careers
• The power of breakdowns as preludes to breakthroughs
• Jesse’s passion projects and how they align with his broader purpose
• The transformative process of writing a book and sharing your story
• The next episode in Jesse’s journey: expanding reach globally, coaching leaders, and inspiring others

Timestamps:

00:00 - The tech behind professional sounding recordings and equipment tips
02:00 - Creating authentic conversations with minimal editing
04:20 - Treating each new opportunity and the importance of ownership
08:00 - The significance of community and loyalty across cities
12:00 - Transitioning from consulting to corporate roles in retail giants
15:00 - Mentorship and its impact on early career advancement
18:00 - Shifting corporate cultures: from Deloitte/Ernst & Young to Amazon, Walmart, Target
22:00 - Why ownership is like driving a car—being present and responsible
25:00 - Managing risks personally and professionally: frameworks and strategies
31:00 - Facing breakdowns and leveraging them for breakthroughs
36:00 - Jesse’s passion projects: nonprofits, community work, investments
41:00 - The journey of writing a book: speaking dreams into reality
48:00 - The next episode: global influence, youth leadership, and creating possibilities
58:00 - The power of visualization and leaving a compelling “spoiler” for the future

Resources & Links:

• Jesse Rhodes Jr. — Personal website and contact
• Leadership Unlocked: Harness Your Ambition — Jesse’s forthcoming book (search for updates)
• National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) — Supporting Black professionals in finance
• Columbia Tower Club — Jesse’s current engagement space

Connect with Jesse:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Twitter

The Bold Life of a Veteran Journalist and Family Advocate: Margaret Larson’s Journey

In this episode, we explore the remarkable career and personal evolution of Margaret Larson, a seasoned broadcaster whose work has spanned from cover stories in war zones to heartfelt conversations on a beloved Seattle talk show. Margaret shares insights on balancing a glowing media career with family priorities, her adventures abroad, and her inspiring approach to retirement and giving back.

Key Topics:

• How Margaret transitioned from international correspondent to Seattle TV icon
• The internal mindset and resilience required for dangerous reporting in war zones
• Navigating career pivots driven by family needs, health, and personal growth
• The unparalleled experience of working on national stages like NBC’s Today Show
• Lessons learned from living a life of constant change and adaptation
• Mental health advocacy inspired by her son’s struggles and the importance of transparency
• The joy of retirement, community involvement, and investing in meaningful relationships
• The power of authenticity and genuine connection in interviewing and storytelling
• Margaret’s visionary projects on communication, mentorship, and high-profile client work

Timestamps:

00:00 - Margaret's unexpected early start at NBC and her first big break at the Today Show
04:00 - Living as a foreign correspondent during pivotal moments in global history
08:28 - Navigating danger and gunfire while reporting in Croatia and the Soviet Union
12:17 - The evolution from international war zones to a respected family and community figure
16:41 - Lessons from covering conflicts: resilience, risk, and the human story
22:21 - Moving around as a military kid and building adaptability and confidence
25:52 - The nuanced personality of introverted extroverts in high-profile media careers
34:06 - Deciding to leave her career for family and health reasons during her son's early struggles
39:38 - The impact of her son's mental health journey and public advocacy for awareness
44:17 - The magic of her Seattle-based talk show, connecting with influential guests like Julie Andrews
48:54 - Reflecting on her legacy, mentorship projects, and the community she loves
66:14 - The freedom and purpose found in retirement and the importance of time
70:30 - Margaret’s final metaphor: living a life of surprises, laughter, and continuous adventure

Resources & Links:

• Margaret Larson - LinkedIn
• Mercy Corps (nonprofit)
• Mercy Corps Path
• Opus Prize
• Allen Cumming - Actor & Activist
• Kevin Pierre-Louis - Seahawks Player & Pie Maker
• Duke University
• King 5 Seattle - Local Affiliate
• MentorCam - Mentorship Platform

Connect with Margaret Larson:

• Instagram
• Facebook

Notable Quotes:

• “Most of us in journalism are actually introverts who have learned to perform in front of a camera.”
• “The greatest strength is authenticity — in reporting and in life.”
• “Time is the most valuable asset we have. Retirement gives us the space to truly enjoy it.”

Actionable Insights:

• Prioritize purpose over hustle for a fulfilling career and retirement
• Don’t hesitate to seize unexpected opportunities as they come
• Open up conversations about mental health to foster healing and support
• Build genuine relationships through curiosity and sincere interest
• Use personal stories to inspire others to seek help and embrace change

Note: This episode underscores how a fearless pursuit of storytelling, combined with family values and community service, creates a legacy richer than fame. Margaret Larson’s journey reminds us all that the next chapter can be the most rewarding yet.