The Professional Experts Podcast

Awareness and Intentionality: The Foundation of a Life Well Built with Brian Bogert

Brian Bogert joined me for one of the most honest, layered conversations I have had on this podcast. Brian is Certified Professional Expert number 40, and he earned that number by doing the work, not just talking about it. He has invested over $800,000 in coaches, mentors, and programs over 13 years. That is not a flex. That is a philosophy. And it shows in every word he speaks. THE STORY THAT GROUNDS EVERYTHING At age seven, Brian was run over by a runaway truck in a parking lot. His left arm was severed. Twenty-four surgeries followed. What stayed with me was not the physical ordeal but what happened after. People refused to believe his story. They wrote it for him instead. That experience planted a seed of performance-driven identity that took Brian decades to recognize and gently uproot. He did not become bitter. He became a student of his own life. THE IDEA THAT STOPPED ME COLD Brian draws a clear line between pain and suffering. We can choose the pain of a hard conversation to avoid the suffering of a broken relationship. We can choose the pain of honest self-examination to avoid the suffering of a life that never quite fits. That reframe is simple, practical, and quietly profound. It is the kind of truth that sounds obvious until you realize you have been avoiding it for years. WHAT WE COVERED We talked about the moment Brian's wife told him she wanted all of him, not just the performing version. We explored his protector-connector framework, the idea that every defense we build disconnects us from the very things we want most. We also discussed how awareness and intentionality, what Brian calls the real AI, shape everything from business decisions to the deepest relationships we carry. HOW TO REACH BRIAN Visit brianbogert.com/connect for his full resource library, podcast, and Time Compression AI work. That is Bogert, like yogurt with an E. In the spirit of growth. About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits. Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ [https://cathcart.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/] https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart [https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart] https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart [https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart] Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs]

Stop Playing It Safe: The Explorer’s Mindset for Innovation and Creativity with Jeff Rogers

What if the key to innovation and stronger teams isn’t more structure—but more creativity? In this episode, Jeff Rogers shares how his background in improv comedy and work with Second City shaped his approach to leadership, storytelling, and corporate transformation. From building trust within teams to shifting mindsets from risk-avoidance to exploration, Jeff breaks down how organizations can unlock creativity and take meaningful action. You’ll also hear powerful insights on why people fear judgment—not public speaking, how small perspective shifts can change outcomes, and why embracing an “explorer’s mindset” is essential in today’s fast-changing world. About the Guest: Jeff Rogers is an award-winning keynote speaker, professional emcee, and creativity expert with over 25 years of experience engaging corporate audiences. Known for his high-energy, interactive style, he blends improvisation, storytelling, and innovation to help organizations think differently, collaborate effectively, and take meaningful action. Jeff began his career as an award-winning stand-up comedian before being discovered by Amy Sedaris and encouraged to train at Second City. He went on to perform alongside renowned comedians such as Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler, honing the improvisational techniques that now define his work with business leaders. Today, Jeff is a nationally recognized speaker and storytelling champion, delivering keynotes, workshops, and hosted events that drive innovation, strengthen culture, and inspire teams to move from uncertainty to unstoppable momentum. He is also an international best-selling author and creator of the PLAYMaker Mindset, a framework that combines creativity, collaboration, and the science of play to unlock breakthrough thinking and performance. Beyond the stage, Jeff has worked as a TV host, screenwriter, and creative director—including leading the inaugural Chicago Ideas Week—and has appeared in commercials and television shows for major brands. His work focuses on helping organizations align purpose, ignite creativity, and build cultures that thrive in times of change. Website: https://www.jeffrogersunlimited.com/ [https://www.jeffrogersunlimited.com/] About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ [https://cathcart.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/] https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart [https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart] https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart [https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart] Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs]

Breaking the Patterns: The Invisible Operating System Running Your Life with Ali Sweeney | S2E20

Most people are being guided by beliefs they didn’t consciously choose. In this thought-provoking conversation, Ali Sweeney shares how unconscious beliefs act like an invisible operating system that shapes our decisions, behaviors, and leadership without us even realizing it. Through her work as an intuitive guide, she helps high performers uncover hidden patterns formed earlier in life and interrupt the cycles that keep them stuck. This episode explores the powerful intersection of intuition, leadership, and self-awareness—revealing how leaders can move beyond fear, reprogram limiting beliefs, and align their actions with who they truly are. About the Guest: Ali Sweeney is the founder of A Light Insight, where she works as an intuitive guide, energy healer, and meditation teacher helping individuals uncover limiting beliefs and reconnect with their inner wisdom. Her path has evolved over three decades—from environmental engineer to nonprofit leader, and eventually to spiritual teacher and psychic practitioner. Through her work, Ali supports people in recognizing hidden patterns, releasing emotional blocks, and aligning with a more authentic and purposeful life. She offers clairvoyant readings, meditation classes, and group experiences designed to help clients gain clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection to themselves. Ali holds a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Cornell University and a master’s degree in leadership from the University of Denver, blending analytical thinking with intuitive insight in her work. Website: https://www.alightinsight.com/ [https://www.alightinsight.com/] About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ [https://cathcart.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/] https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart [https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart] https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart [https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart] Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs]

Never Hitting Rock Bottom: How Belief Rewrites Your Future with Dan Clark | S2E19

What happens when everything you built your identity on is taken away? In this conversation, legendary speaker Dan Clark shares how a life-altering injury, a single cassette tape, and the right mentors transformed his darkest moments into a calling that’s impacted millions—revealing why resilience, belief, and purpose always matter more than talent alone. This episode is a reminder that you don’t find your calling by chasing success, but by answering the moment that almost broke you. About the Guest: Dan Clark is an internationally renowned Hall of Fame speaker, bestselling author, and resilience expert who has delivered more than 6,000 presentations across 79 countries. A former elite athlete whose career was derailed by a life-altering injury, Dan transformed adversity into purpose and became one of the pioneers of motivational speaking in schools, colleges, corporations, and leadership conferences worldwide. He is a trusted mentor to leaders, a longtime protégé of Zig Ziglar, and the author of over 30 books focused on leadership, belief, and personal excellence. Dan’s message is rooted in integrity, resilience, and the power of discovering your WHY—impacting millions of lives across generations. About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ [https://cathcart.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/] https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart [https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart] https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart [https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart] Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs]

Why the Best Experts Don’t Push—They Pull with John Murphy | S2E18

What does it really take to become a trusted professional expert—and stay relevant for decades? In this episode of The Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart sits down with John Murphy, a globally respected authority in culture change and organizational alignment, to unpack the mindset, methods, and moments that shaped his remarkable journey. From launching his consulting practice before he had it all figured out to leading rapid, measurable change inside major organizations, John shares why expertise is built through action, not perfection. You’ll discover how alignment beats authority, why simplicity outperforms complexity, and how creating real value naturally attracts the right clients—without chasing sales. This conversation is a masterclass for consultants, coaches, and leaders who want to build credibility that lasts. About the Guest: John J. Murphy is Founder and CEO of Venture Management Consultants (1988). John is the author of 20 books, including the award-winning "Beyond Doubt: Four Steps to Inner Peace," Editor's Choice "Best Inspirational Book of 2010" (Allbooks Review, Toronto). His latest title, "Miracle Minded Manager" is quickly gaining international attention for integrating "A Course in Miracles" into business. His books "Zentrepreneur" and "Sage Leadership" also combine timeless spiritual principles with modern-day challenges. John has trained thousands of people from over 50 countries on topics such as inspiration, leadership, high performance teamwork, personal empowerment, culture change, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies. He is also a highly respected speaker and management coach, featured on over 500 radio and television shows. Website: https://www.johnjmurphy.org/ [https://www.johnjmurphy.org/] About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ [https://cathcart.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/] https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart [https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart] https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart [https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart] Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs]