The Project 12:02 Leadership Lab

Turning Adversity into Hope: Dusty Mysen’s Journey from Diagnosis to Leadership

In this episode of the Project 1202 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohnman sits down with Dusty Mysen to explore an extraordinary journey of resilience, leadership, and hope in the face of one of life's greatest adversities: cancer. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at 47, Dusty shares how he transformed a dire prognosis into a battle for life and leadership. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of faith, perseverance, and community support in overcoming insurmountable challenges. It’s more than a story of survival—it’s a guide for leading with courage and purpose through even the darkest times. * The Diagnosis and Initial Shock: Dusty recounts his journey from living a healthy life to facing a life-altering diagnosis, providing context for how he transformed his fear into hope and action. * Building Resilience through Faith and Positivity: The critical role of Dusty’s faith and his mantra “faith over fear” exemplifies how belief systems can empower individuals to fight unimaginable battles. * Support Networks Matter: Dusty reflects on the profound impact of family, friends, and community support during his treatment and recovery, emphasizing the power of connection in overcoming challenges. * Turning Pain into Purpose: Dusty’s decision to document his experience led to his book, Cancer Warrior, serving as a source of hope and guidance for others facing difficulties. * Leadership in Adversity: Rich and Dusty delve into how leadership principles, such as courage, humility, and resilience, play crucial roles in both personal and professional challenges. One of the episode's most moving moments captures Dusty’s transformative realization about the power of hope through the compassion of a hospital nurse. This interaction illustrates the unexpected sources of strength that can spark a change in mindset: Dusty Mysen: “The overnight nurse came in... she asked if I was a Christian and offered to pray over me. She laid her hand on my abdomen and prayed for about half an hour, repeating ‘by His stripes, you will be healed.’ She believed it, even when I couldn’t. That was my first glimmer of hope, and it changed everything.”Rich Lohnman: “That courage and belief—on both of your parts—is what leadership is. It’s stepping up even when everything seems hopeless.” Dusty Mysen’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership extends beyond boardrooms and sports fields—it’s a personal journey of overcoming fear, connecting with others, and inspiring hope. His battle with pancreatic cancer, chronicled in his book Cancer Warrior, serves as a beacon of resilience and motivation for those grappling with their own challenges. Dusty’s journey exemplifies how embracing faith, fostering a strong support network, and leading with courage can turn adversity into a transformative opportunity for growth and leadership. Resources: * Pre-order Dusty’s book, A Cancer Warrior: How I Fought And Survived My Battle With Pancreatic Cancer [https://www.amazon.com/Cancer-Warrior-Fought-Survived-Pancreatic/dp/B0DMQ9WHNL/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.mA9SGJw-uG370e_KVbKusg.luZMKiQIemLLbNy-9mutxAKWxMoC5hI-1eX61l-sKPY&qid=1731982477&sr=8-1]. It’s available December 10th. * Contact Dusty Mysen at, dustymysen@gmail.com [dustymysen@gmail.com] or follow on Facebook@Dusty Mysen or Instagram @dustymysen * Visit the Project 12:02 website [https://www.project1202.com/] * Check out our Passport to Growth program [https://www.project1202.com/passport-to-growth] * Book a free coaching strategy session [https://www.project1202.com/free-coaching-strategy-session#col-8f0EQ30vdJ] * Get a free copy of Rich’s book, The Little Guide to Big Success [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XC6LLF?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&skipTwisterOG=2].  * Message Project 12:02 via LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-12-02/]

Going Rogue: Breaking the Conventional Rules for Financial and Personal Health

In this episode of the Project 12:02 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohman welcomes financial advisor and bestselling author Melissa Myers back for an eye-opening discussion on achieving financial health. Building on themes from her book Going Rogue, Melissa offers unconventional strategies for mastering finances by focusing on personal values, self-awareness, and mindful decision-making. The conversation delves into why conventional wisdom may not work for everyone and explores how to take control of your financial journey in a way that aligns with your true priorities. Summary of Main Topics Discussed: * Shifting Focus for Holistic Health: Rich and Melissa discuss the importance of integrating financial health into a broader approach to well-being that includes mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational health. * Going Rogue Philosophy: Melissa explains the essence of her approach—breaking free from traditional, one-size-fits-all financial advice and empowering people to make decisions based on their individual needs, goals, and values. * Practical Financial Strategies: The discussion covers how to replace restrictive budgeting with lifestyle analysis, why documenting past spending is more revealing than following preset rules, and the value of planning for “sunny day funds” to reduce stress. * Real-World Examples of Transformation: Rich shares personal stories of how Melissa's guidance helped him and his wife gain control over their finances and move closer to their life goals without feeling deprived. Poignant Exchange:The power of Melissa’s approach comes through in her emphasis on aligning finances with personal values. This exchange illustrates the shift from standard advice to deeply personal engagement: Rich: “When somebody says, ‘Okay, I want to start, I'm going to write a budget,’ what would you say to them?”Melissa: “I would say, ‘May I ask you a question?’ I like to gain permission and have that common ground to ask curious, thought-provoking questions. In the book, the first three chapters don’t even talk about money; they’re about reflecting on what’s important in your life.” This approach challenges the traditional methods of diving into numbers first and instead connects finances to purpose, making financial transformation meaningful and actionable. Conclusion:Financial freedom isn't just about building wealth—it's about achieving a lifestyle that aligns with your values and goals. Melissa Myers' Going Rogue approach empowers individuals to take charge of their financial health by rethinking conventional strategies and creating a personalized roadmap to success. By focusing on lifestyle analysis, thoughtful spending, and self-awareness, listeners can move beyond stress and into a space where financial decisions reflect their true priorities. If you’re ready to transform your financial life with a supportive and tailored approach, now’s the time to explore these rogue strategies and build a path that truly works for you. Resources: * * Get your copy of Melissa’s book, Going Rogue! [https://goingrogue.askmelissamyers.com/] * * Get your copy of Melissa’s workbook, Passport to Freedom [https://passport.askmelissamyers.com/] * Visit the Project 12:02 website [https://www.project1202.com/] * Check out our - to Growth program [https://www.project1202.com/passport-to-growth] * Get a free copy of Rich’s book The Little Guide to Big Success [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XC6LLF?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&skipTwisterOG=2]. Simply cover the shipping costs to get started on your journey toward excellence. * Message Project 12:02 via LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-12-02/] Podcast production and voice-overs by Connecticut Voice-Over Artist Erik Smelser [https://eriksmelservo.com].

Unlocking Above-Average Leadership: Rituals, Growth, and the Pursuit of Excellence

In this episode of the Leadership Lab, hosts Steffani Gerard and Rich Lohman delve into the mindset and habits that separate the average from the above-average, emphasizing the critical role of daily rituals, intentional decision-making, and the importance of continuous growth. If you’ve been feeling stuck or struggling with underperformance—either personally or within your team—this episode provides practical insights into how small but deliberate shifts in mindset and habits can lead to big results. Steffani and Rich share actionable advice, valuable reflections, and powerful tools to help leaders rise above mediocrity and inspire excellence in themselves and others. Episode Summary:Steffani and Rich explore the concept of the "above-average" individual, breaking down the daily rituals and mindset shifts that lead to lasting success. They discuss how habits, such as reading a "success image" each morning, can set the tone for a day filled with purpose and productivity. Rich emphasizes that success is not about grand gestures but the accumulation of consistent, small actions that align with a clear vision of one’s goals. The discussion touches on the value of saying "no" to distractions in order to maintain focus on long-term objectives. For leaders managing underperformance in their teams, the hosts highlight the importance of looking inward, modeling the behaviors they wish to see, and guiding team members to uncover their deeper motivations. Key Topics Discussed: * The Role of Daily Rituals: How consistent daily practices, like reviewing one's success image, create a foundation for achieving personal and professional goals. * The Power of Decisions: Effort, mindset, excellence, and consistency are all choices that need to be made every day. * Overcoming Underperformance: Rich shares a powerful approach for leaders—first, look in the mirror to assess your own standards and actions before addressing your team’s challenges. * Shifting Perspectives: The importance of cultivating a growth-oriented mindset and learning to think in ways that align with desired outcomes. * Practical Advice for Leaders: Specific questions that leaders can ask their team members to uncover motivations and align personal goals with organizational objectives. Notable Exchange:This exchange captures the essence of moving beyond mediocrity through intentional choices and habits: Rich Lohman: "Effort is a decision. Mindset is a decision. Excellence is a decision. Consistency is a decision. There are no shortcuts to success." Steffani Gerard: "It's the drive towards consistent excellence. If you wake up every day...with the habits and the rituals laid out...you're going to strive towards consistent excellence in everything you do, which does force people to have to focus and say no to things." Conclusion:In a world where mediocrity often feels like the norm, this episode of the Leadership Lab provides a roadmap for those ready to break free and strive for something greater. Steffani and Rich remind us that success is not an accident but a deliberate choice, made day by day through disciplined actions, self-reflection, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Whether you're a leader looking to elevate your team's performance or an individual seeking personal development, the insights shared in this conversation are a powerful guide. Tune in, take notes, and begin your journey from average to above-average today. Resources: * Visit the Project 12:02 website [https://www.project1202.com/] * Check out our Passport to Growth program [https://www.project1202.com/passport-to-growth] * Get a free copy of Rich’s book The Little Guide to Big Success [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XC6LLF?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&skipTwisterOG=2]. Simply cover the shipping costs to get started on your journey toward excellence. * Message Project 12:02 via LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-12-02/]

Self-Leadership & Positive Persistence: Tools for Overcoming Life’s Earthquakes

In this inspiring episode of the Project 1202 Leadership Lab, host Rich Lohman sits down with Ian Bowen, a motivational speaker, marathoner, and podcast host of the Positive Persistence Podcast. Ian shares his story of overcoming immense physical and emotional challenges, including a period when he was 75% paralyzed, and how he turned these hardships into powerful lessons in leadership and resilience. Through practical frameworks like his RINSE method and a mindset focused on self-leadership, Ian provides listeners with tangible strategies for overcoming obstacles in their own lives. This conversation will motivate anyone facing personal or professional struggles, offering a roadmap to unlock their true potential. The episode begins with Ian recounting his recovery journey, from the disbelief of being told he might never regain full mobility to training for and completing multiple marathons. Ian reflects on his desire to always improve—whether that meant shaving time off his marathon or building mental fortitude in the face of daily challenges. Rich and Ian explore the concept of self-leadership, emphasizing that personal growth often requires facing adversity head-on and shifting one’s mindset to focus on the possibilities rather than limitations. A major highlight of the discussion is Ian's RINSE framework—a five-step process that Ian used to guide his recovery and continues to use in his life. RINSE stands for Remember, Imagine, Notice, Shift, and Expect, and each step plays a critical role in building resilience. Ian discusses how remembering past successes, imagining oneself beyond current challenges, noticing small wins, shifting mindsets, and expecting difficulty can all contribute to developing a resilient spirit. Throughout the episode, Ian and Rich emphasize that life's setbacks, whether minor or major, all require the same qualities of perseverance and mental strength. The episode encourages listeners to tap into their own "metaphysical backpack," the tools they’ve gained through past challenges, to face current obstacles. One particularly moving moment in the conversation captures the essence of Ian’s approach to overcoming adversity. Rich asks Ian what message he would give to someone facing hardship. Ian responds by challenging listeners to recognize their own strength: Ian Bowen: "I think that people need to realize that they are more capable and more powerful than they imagined. And if they take the time to look back on their life and what got them to where they are currently, they will see that they have been able to overcome some amazing obstacles... It didn't look like this. It was a different version of this, but I've been able to succeed in the face of adversity before. And I can do it again." In a world where leadership is often tested by unexpected challenges, Ian Bowen's story is a testament to the power of self-leadership and resilience. His conversation with Rich Lohman is a reminder that no matter the scale of the challenge—whether it's running a marathon or recovering from a life-altering health crisis—the mindset and methods we adopt play a pivotal role in our ability to overcome. For leaders striving to push past their own limits, Ian’s RINSE framework offers a structured yet personal approach to building mental toughness and inspiring others. As Ian says, “It's all about pushing yourself to find out what the next best version of yourself is going to be.” Resources: * Visit the Project 12:02 website [https://www.project1202.com/] * Check out our Passport to Growth program [https://www.project1202.com/passport-to-growth] * Purchase Rich’s book The Little Guide to Big Success [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XC6LLF?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&skipTwisterOG=2] * Message us via LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-12-02/] * Listen to Ian Bowen’s Positive Persistence podcast [https://positivepersistence.libsyn.com/] * Visit Ian Bowen’s website [https://ianbowen.net/] ------------------------------------------ Podcast production and voice-over are provided by voice-over artist [https://eriksmelservo.com] and audiobook narrator [https://eriksmelservo.com] Erik Smelser.

The Power of Curiosity and Resilience in Leadership

Rich Lohman sits down with Josh Johnston, founder of agency consulting firm Hydra, to explore the nuances of leadership in today’s challenging landscape. From navigating the uncertainties of a post-pandemic world to understanding the importance of asking the right questions, this conversation dives deep into what it takes to succeed in business and life. Josh shares his journey of moving to Nashville, starting a business, and ultimately, achieving a multi-seven-figure exit.  Together, Rich and Josh unpack the power of curiosity, the value of calculated risk-taking, and how an emphasis on leadership can be the key to unlocking both personal and professional growth. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone looking to level up their leadership skills. The discussion kicks off with Josh reflecting on the difficulties of building a business during some of the most uncertain times in recent history, including the pandemic and the political turmoil that followed. He emphasizes that while risks are a natural part of any big decision, the key lies in evaluating those risks and seeing the potential upside. Rich then shifts the conversation toward the changing dynamics of the workforce, highlighting the complexities of recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent in today's environment. Josh speaks to the importance of balancing risk with opportunity, encouraging listeners to embrace their own entrepreneurial journeys with a mindset of growth and curiosity. A central theme of the episode is the significance of leadership development. Josh shares why he believes that growth as a leader is essential for achieving both financial success and making a meaningful impact. He offers practical advice on the importance of asking “why” questions, emphasizing that understanding the motivations behind decisions is crucial for effective leadership and sales. In addition, the two dive into the role of education—both traditional and non-traditional—in shaping successful leaders. While Josh values learning, he contends that success doesn’t necessarily require a college degree, especially in entrepreneurial pursuits. One of the episode’s most insightful moments comes when Rich asks Josh why someone should invest in personal growth and leadership. Instead of providing a typical motivational answer, Josh reframes the question to get to the root of motivation:Josh Johnston: "Well, my question would be, 'What are you trying to do with it? Because maybe you shouldn't, to be honest.' So I'd figure out, 'Hey, what are you trying to do with it first?'” This response showcases Josh’s nuanced perspective on leadership—focusing not just on action, but on understanding the underlying purpose behind it. This emphasis on reflection and deeper questioning is a central theme in his consulting approach and sets this episode apart as a valuable guide for listeners seeking more thoughtful approaches to leadership challenges. In this episode, Rich Lohman and Josh Johnston offer listeners a wealth of actionable insights into what it takes to succeed as a leader in today’s world. From embracing risk with a calculated mindset to the importance of continuous learning and asking deeper questions, the conversation is a call to action for anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact. As Josh points out, success is often about “being ultimately curious” and focusing on the “why” behind decisions. Rich adds to this by emphasizing that life’s journey is about growth, pushing past fear, and helping others along the way. If you're ready to take your leadership skills to the next level, this episode is a must-listen. Resources: * Visit the Project 12:02 website [https://www.project1202.com/] * Check out our Passport to Growth program [https://www.project1202.com/passport-to-growth] * Purchase Rich’s book The Little Guide to Big Success [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XC6LLF?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4MKZHWZ73A5ZQB1MR4FE_1&skipTwisterOG=2] * Message us via LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-12-02/] * Joshua Johnston’s firm Hydra [https://www.workwithhydra.com/] ------- Podcast production and voice-overs are provided by voice-over artist and audiobook narrator [https://eriksmelservo.com] Erik Smelser.