Leadership Loading Podcast

150 How Cliche Larke Scaled Her Business With Smart AI and Six-Figure Contracts

Cliche Larke went from educator to entrepreneur; scaling LC Business Services into a powerhouse that lands six-figure government contracts. In this Leadership Loading Podcast episode, she breaks down how AI can elevate small businesses if used the right way. Inside the episode: * Why blindly using AI is killing small brands * How Cliche used ChatGPT, Gemini, and Airtable to streamline workflows * What most entrepreneurs miss when bidding government contracts * The power of capability statements, process documentation, and mentorship * How she blends PMP and Six Sigma methods for business success 🚀 Learn more: https://www.lcbizservices.org [https://www.lcbizservices.org] 🎙 Hosted by Jason McClaren of GoHeroes #AIForBusiness #ProcessAutomation #LeadershipPodcast #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness

149 Rebuilding Brotherhood: Owen Marcus on Emotional Leadership for Men

In this powerful episode of Leadership Loading, host Jason McClaren sits down with Owen Marcus, founder of MELD (Men’s Emotional Leadership Development), to explore how men—especially veterans and first responders—can rebuild emotional strength, reconnect with community, and transform stress into leadership. 🔥 Key Takeaways: * Why men feel lost after leaving the high-stress roles * The role of somatic healing in emotional development * How MELD’s retreats and community are saving lives * Why emotional leadership is the future of effective leadership * Tools and skills every man needs to thrive in relationships and work 💥 Learn more about MELD: 👉 https://meld.community [https://meld.community] 📅 Upcoming retreat: February 2026 📞 Book a free consultation via the website

148 From ER to Esq The Leadership Pivot of Rusty Reynolds

Rusty Reynolds went from hospital halls to courtroom battles. In this episode of the Leadership Loading Podcast, he shares how his early career in healthcare shaped his mission-driven law practice in Frisco, Texas. Learn how he carved out a successful niche by blending ER urgency with legal precision, and why diversity, service, and standards are at the heart of his law firm's success.

146 From PTSD to $8M How Aaron “Sergeant Q” Quinonez Built Resilient Teams

From living in his car after a home invasion and crippling PTSD… to building a multi-million-dollar janitorial company and helping thousands of people strengthen mental resilience — Aaron “Sergeant Q” Quinonez journey is nothing short of extraordinary.In this episode of Leadership Loading, host Jason McClaren dives deep with Aaron about:His elite Marine Corps role with 1st ANGLICO calling in airstrikes and working with Special ForcesThe home invasion that changed his life and worsened his PTSDWhy he built a janitorial business focused on mental healthHow investing in people’s mental resilience reduced turnover from 300% to 67%Winning back-to-back seasons on the reality show The BloxPractical leadership advice that any new leader can use TODAYAaron’s Links:Q Actual (civilian mental health app): https://qactual.comOperation Pop Smoke (veteran mental health app): https://operationspopsmoke.comAaron’s speaking and training: https://sergeantq.com📢 If you’ve ever struggled with mental health, leadership, or building a team that actually wants to work with you, this is your must-watch episode.

145 Building Better Leaders with People, Planet, and Profit – Gary Polk

Gary Polk, founder of the Polk Institute Foundation, joins the Leadership Loading podcast to share how social entrepreneurship and leadership values can change your business, and your life. From being a banker in Beverly Hills to building a tuition-free nonprofit helping underserved entrepreneurs, Gary breaks down what it really takes to succeed in today’s business world.🔗 Learn More:Polk Institute: https://polkinstitute.org📌 Key Topics:Why "Character" is the #1 leadership trait in businessThe triple bottom line: People, Planet, ProfitHow veterans & underrepresented groups are empowered through the Polk InstituteWhat is the "Fundable CEO"?How entrepreneurship is a team sportBuilding grit, resilience, and mental fitness in foundersThe Silver Tsunami: Helping baby boomers with exit strategies📢 Free programs available for veterans, women, and early-stage entrepreneurs!