What if the biggest obstacle to winning negotiations isn’t your opponent—but your own reluctance to have tough conversations?

In this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with business strategist and negotiation expert Jonathan B. Smith—author of "Fight Less, Win More"—to debunk the myths about negotiation, decision-making, and what it really takes for teams to thrive.

You'll discover why most business problems stem from avoiding critical conversations, and how negotiation skills aren't just for closing deals—they're essential for everyday life, leadership, and even family dynamics. Jonathan B. Smith shares personal stories, unconventional negotiation scenarios, and key lessons from training with Chris Voss and the Black Swan Group.

Plus, get actionable tips on building a personal board of directors and the number one thing that makes or breaks any negotiation.

Episode Overview:

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest01:23 Jonathan B. Smith's entrepreneurial background02:24 What is the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)?03:22 The most common problem in organizations today04:03 Genesis of "Fight Less, Win More" and working with Chris Voss05:25 Redefining negotiation and the power of listening06:42 Surprising ways negotiation skills improve everyday relationships07:39 The real-world wins and gifts from publishing the book08:45 Is negotiation always about fighting?09:41 Mastering emotional triggers and negotiation self-awareness11:09 The importance of coaches and building a personal support team12:05 Where to find Jonathan B. Smith online13:00 Big goals for spreading negotiation skills globally13:56 Fun Street: Movies, music, food, and more16:12 Where in the world Jonathan B. Smith would love to be16:25 Closing thoughts and gratitude

What if your greatest heartbreak became your ultimate source of power—and purpose?

In this episode of Thrive Loud, bestselling author, speaker, and certified wellness coach Jessica Moyer joins Lou Diamond to share how devastating loss led her to a life centered around health, wellness, and purposeful living. From losing her infant son and her father, to rebuilding herself and guiding others through grief, identity shifts, and health transformations, Jess reveals how “real” wellness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a formula for reclaiming your strength and energy, no matter where you start.

Listeners will learn the secrets behind her R.E.A.L. Wellness approach (Realistic, Resilient, Energy, Action, Love), get debunked on hormone health myths, hear why prioritizing self-care is non-negotiable, and even catch personal insights—like her comfort food cravings and the power of belief over the noise of naysayers. Jess’s journey reminds us that thriving isn’t about avoiding pain, but transforming it into your life’s greatest contribution.

Timestamps Overview:00:00 - Welcome & episode intro01:08 - Jess Moyer’s journey: heartbreak to purpose02:21 - Purposeful living & wellness as a foundation03:55 - The R.E.A.L. Wellness framework explained05:27 - Hormone health, misconceptions, and advocacy08:00 - Becoming a bestselling author & sharing the REAL framework09:34 - Giving and receiving gifts through content creation10:40 - The audience’s biggest aha moment11:17 - Staying on track: Jess’s self-care rituals12:02 - “She believed she could, so she did”—the sign behind Jess12:36 - Where to find Jess online & her book13:18 - Fun Street: movies, music, food, and activities17:11 - Dream travel destination18:14 - Closing thoughts & gratitude

What if the leaders we all admire—those seemingly unstoppable CEOs and visionaries—are actually more isolated and vulnerable than anyone imagines?

Lou Diamond sits down with Carmen Leiser, organizational psychologist and leader at the Movi Collective, to reveal why the mask of confidence so many leaders wear can be both powerful and deeply exhausting—and why removing it just might transform leadership for the better.

Together, they break down the paradox of leadership performance, discuss the rise of peer-driven psychological safety, and share actionable insights on how leaders can foster genuine connection, personal growth, and resilience in themselves and their teams. Carmen also takes us inside the Movi Collective: a global community redefining what it means to network, support, and grow—both professionally and personally.

Listeners will discover:

• The hidden toll of leadership “performance” (03:27)
• How vulnerability, when balanced, creates unstoppable teams (04:58)
• What makes Movi Collective radically different from traditional “networking” groups (09:10)
• The life-changing impact of peer “nucleus” groups for high performers (15:32)
• Carmen’s personal journey, favorite energizers, and the small practices that keep leaders thriving—even on tough days
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Episode Timestamp Overview:

• 00:25 – Introduction to Carmen Leiser & global leadership paradox
• 03:27 – Why leaders feel pressure to “perform” and the cost
• 04:58 – The power (and limits) of vulnerability in leadership
• 07:06 – Creating genuine psychological safety with peers
• 08:56 – Inside the Movi Collective and its unique impact
• 15:32 – Life-changing “nucleus” groups & stories from the field
• 19:02 – Carmen’s thriving strategies & team support
• 21:00 – Fun Street: Techno jams, pizza, volunteering, and more

Tune in for a refreshingly honest look at leadership, growth, and the power of showing up as your real self.

What if the secret to thriving in life and business could be learned from the baseball diamond?

In this powerful episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond welcomes back acclaimed baseball writer and author Ken Davidoff for an eye-opening conversation about his newest book, "101 Lessons from the Dugout: What Baseball and Softball Can Teach Us About the Game of Life."

Fittingly recorded LIVE in studio on Opening Day!!

Discover why Ken Davidoff walked away from a 30-year sportswriting career at the top of his game and how a random call from his agent opened the door to a new adventure in teaching, mentoring, and authorship. The episode dives deep into how the life lessons found between the foul lines can impact coaches, parents, leaders, and young athletes alike. Hear the behind-the-scenes stories about crafting the book alongside pediatrician Dr. Harley Rothbard, the power of collaboration, and the surprising writing process that turned daily deadlines into an enjoyable pursuit.

You’ll also hear Ken Davidoff's Mount Rushmore of greatest games he ever covered (some with national, historic significance), what he misses most about journalism, and, of course, the real-life lesson from the game that changed his approach forever.

Episode Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction and welcome[00:42] Ken Davidoff's background in baseball journalism[02:09] Adjunct teaching and career shift[02:41] Why Ken Davidoff left sportswriting and how the book project began[03:23] Blending perspectives: the inspiration behind "101 Lessons from the Dugout"[04:11] Translating baseball lessons to life and the story of the “stretch”[05:44] Who the book is for—players, coaches, parents, leaders[06:47] Pro athletes, leadership, and lessons for players[08:06] Ken Davidoff's writing process and collaboration with his co-author[09:30] Editing the book and feedback process[11:25] Lessons that didn’t make the cut[12:03] Promoting the book and leveraging relationships[13:11] What Ken Davidoff misses (and doesn’t miss) about journalism[14:42] Is there another book on the way?[15:21] Where to find Ken Davidoff and the book[16:21] Fun Street: favorite sports moments, activities, and lessons[22:13] Ken Davidoff's favorite life lesson: "Small Ball"[23:26] Personal memorabilia and closing thoughts[25:19] Outro and where to connect

Get ready to see the game—and life itself—in a whole new way!

What if the secret to transforming your team's engagement and productivity starts with something as simple as telling your new hires why they stood out?

In this inspiring episode of Thrive Loud, Lou Diamond sits down with Ashley Herd — founder of The Manager Method, HR leader, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and co-host of the HR Besties podcast. Together, they reveal practical, actionable ways to unlock true human connection and leadership in today's workplace, far beyond buzzwords and business clichés.

Ashley shares her unconventional journey from aspiring playwright to HR expert, and how her unique “career quilt” gave rise to her thriving manager training business. Hear why her viral leadership tips resonate and learn the power of "common sense that's not so common" in management. Ashley’s aha moment about hiring truly shocks and delights — it’s a real game-changer for leaders and organizations.

Key highlights include:

• The surprising story behind The Manager Method and how Ashley’s creative roots shaped her approach (01:37)
• Why real human connection in the workplace matters more now than ever, and how managers can harness it for lasting impact (05:41)
• The practical tools that drive engagement, accountability, and strong teams — regardless of industry or career stage (04:01)
• A powerful example of “managing up” that resonates with both senior leaders and frontline managers (10:30)
• Ashley’s personal stories of feedback, doubt, and the very real gift of creating content that changes lives (13:46)

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00: Introduction & Ashley’s background
• 01:37: Ashley’s career journey & the “career quilt”
• 03:07: The origins of Manager Method & social media skits
• 05:41: Importance of human connection in management
• 07:26: Aha moments and leadership lessons for hiring managers
• 10:30: Selling the Manager Method to senior leaders
• 13:46: The “happy accident” and impact of content creation
• 20:14: The story that inspired The Manager Method
• 23:26: Fun Street segment, personal favorites & closing

Ready to elevate your workplace and your leadership skills? Don’t miss this episode featuring actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a fresh perspective on what it really takes to thrive as a manager.

What if the secret to thriving in finance isn’t knowing all the Wall Street jargon—but actually trusting your own instincts and values?

Lou Diamond sits down with trailblazing Wall Street veteran Dani Hughes, founder of Divine Asset Management, who shares her unconventional journey from California beach bartender to running her own firm in the thick of New York’s trading floors—and the powerful lessons learned along the way.

Listen as Dani Hughes reveals:

• How her outsider’s perspective helped her disrupt an industry dominated by men (02:58).
• Why women hold the keys to America’s economic power, even if they don’t realize it (07:01).
• The pitfalls of listening to “retirement number” marketing—and how to define your own financial empire (10:19).
• Her secret weapon for thriving through market cycles and business reinvention: curiosity (12:23).
• Which overlooked financial indicators could warn you about the next big market shake-up (16:03), and why you shouldn’t let greed drive your investment decisions.

Plus, get a peek into Dani Hughes’ favorite movies, music, and daily mindfulness rituals—and discover why aligning your capital with your clarity can transform your future.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:02: Introduction & Dani Hughes’ Wall Street origin story
• 05:35: Decoding financial needs and women’s financial influence
• 10:19: Common challenges facing today’s clients
• 12:19: Dani’s personal “thriving” practice
• 15:33: Market signals and investment cycle tips
• 19:35: The meaning behind Divine Asset Management’s name
• 21:40: Lightning-round favorites and fun street

Tune in and get inspired to redefine what thriving in finance (and life) means for you!

What if the moment that knocked you to the ground became the spark for your greatest breakthrough?

Lou Diamond welcomes back the unstoppable Erika Rothenberger, who shares the audacious story behind her comeback—from a literal punch in an alley to launching her book and the Audacious Woman Summit. Erika reveals how confronting setbacks head-on allowed her to transform pain into powerful purpose, create bold spaces for women to thrive, and inspire daily action for lasting change. From navigating the challenges of event planning and authoring a book, to celebrating wins with her family, you’ll discover how Erika’s journey is about activating your audacity and expanding your impact.

Plus, don’t miss the speed round, behind-the-scenes stories, and actionable ways to break free from your limitations!

Episode Overview:00:00 Welcome & Erika’s bold comeback story02:20 Year-in-review: Book, Summit, and juggling it all03:35 What sparked Audacious Expansion & the summit’s impact06:04 Launching the book and embracing legacy08:06 Behind-the-scenes of creating a summit & overcoming overwhelm11:13 The “happy accident” of authoring and family celebration14:28 How to grab Erika’s book and summit details17:07 Speed round: colors, sports, speakers, vacations, and next big goals21:16 Final thoughts, book flash, and inspiration to keep thriving

What if the most powerful thing you could do in your career was simply trust your gut—and voice?

In this episode of Thrive Loud, bestselling author and communication expert Karen Laos reveals how a lesson learned at age six—and a mortifying boardroom moment—set her on a mission to empower professionals to own their value and speak with confidence that gets noticed.

Host Lou Diamond dives deep with Karen Laos into the nuances of effective communication, including why many leaders unknowingly silence themselves, how to balance authority and likability, and the surprisingly simple trick to stop rambling and get to the point. Karen shares the story behind her book, Trust Your Own Voice, and offers practical tips for conquering self-doubt, breaking the “data dump” cycle in presentations, and adapting to today’s multigenerational workplace culture.

You’ll also hear:

• Karen’s childhood flea market negotiation lessons and their lasting impact (01:50)
• The importance of asking yourself for permission, not just others (04:28)
• How tone, punctuation, and facial expressions shape your ability to connect (07:01)
• Real-world strategies to make your presentations audience-focused (17:37)
• Karen’s top tip for curing “rambling syndrome” (19:52)
• A fun trek through Karen’s favorite movies, music, food, and dream destinations (21:55)

Whether you’re a seasoned leader or a rising professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you speak up, stand out, and thrive.

Episode Timestamped Overview:

• 00:02: Welcome and introduction to Karen Laos
• 01:50: Karen’s childhood lessons and early influences
• 02:27: A boardroom defining moment and trusting your gut
• 04:28: The concept of asking yourself for permission
• 07:01: Voice tone, punctuation, and likability in communication
• 09:45: Warmth vs. assertiveness: balancing authority and likability
• 11:16: Multi-generational workplace challenges
• 14:56: The biggest communication challenge leaders face today
• 17:37: Shifting presentations from information dumps to audience needs
• 19:52: Simple tip for stopping rambling
• 21:55: Fun Street: movies, music, food, activities, dream destinations
• 26:00: Karen’s mission to empower 10 million women
• 26:53: Closing thoughts and gratitude