Steve Heroux is a sales thought leader, author of The Sales Contrarian, and founder of The Sales Collective. Known for his humorous and no-fluff approach, Steve challenges outdated sales methodologies and champions a people-first philosophy. With roots in comedy and admiration for icons like Bob Ross and Larry David, Steve brings heart and honesty into the world of sales, coaching, and leadership.

1. "He didn’t paint to show you how good of a painter he was. He painted to show you how good of a painter you could be." – On Bob Ross’s influence and philosophy.

2. "Selling ice to an Eskimo doesn’t make you a great salesperson. It makes you an asshole." – On ethical, value-driven sales.

3. "You have to teach people how to swing like them, not like you." – On individualized coaching and leadership.

Steve Heroux joins the podcast to dismantle traditional sales myths, challenge robotic training, and advocate for purpose-driven selling. From detaching from outcomes to building self-awareness, Steve shares personal stories and strategies that ignite self-leadership and redefine success—proving that joy, ethics, and humility are the real game changers in sales.

• Robotic scripts kill connection; human presence builds trust.

• Salespeople should call audibles, just like smart quarterbacks do.

• Be you—your unique voice is your catalyst.

• Obsessing over quotas leads to burnout and misalignment.

• Focus on inputs you can control: preparation, practice, and care.

• Daily performance indicators (DPIs) matter more than KPIs.

• Real learning comes from being wrong, not being right.

• Self-awareness starts with admitting mistakes.

• Humor and humility unlock better performance.

• Use point systems to reward meaningful actions (thank you notes, learning).

• Make the work fun and joyful—like fishing or painting.

• Execution creates consistency; passion sustains it.

• One-size-fits-all training is outdated and ineffective.

• Great leadership develops the person’s swing, not the leader’s swing.

• Sales DNA assessments reveal unique strengths and blind spots.

"Why Sales Quotas Are Broken: Steve Heroux on Ethical Selling and Self-Leadership"

"Sales Without Scripts: Steve Heroux on Finding Your Voice and Letting Go of Outcomes"

"From Bob Ross to Sales Boss: Steve Heroux Redefines Success in Business"

Find Your Catalyst at https://findmycatalyst.com

Dale Dupree is the founder of The Sales Rebellion and a dynamic thought leader in modern sales. Known for his rebellious mindset and deeply human approach, Dale challenges traditional business thinking. He shares his love for nature, the power of curiosity, and his vision for Totality—a transformative experience that’s reshaping what a business conference can be.

1. “Change exists on a daily basis for me. So I don’t live in comfort or stagnation.”

2. “We can’t reflect on what we’re going to do—you have to do it, then reflect.”

3. “Totality is a mix of medicine and enlightenment. It’s about thinking much deeper about your existence.”

Dale Dupree reflects on his journey from urban life to the mountains, the importance of community and discomfort, and how these lessons shaped Totality 2025. He reimagines business experiences by emphasizing creativity, human connection, and inner exploration. This episode is about finding your catalyst by embracing unpredictability and authenticity.

• Leaving comfort zones leads to personal clarity and transformation.

• Dale’s story—from city life to mountain quiet—reflects this principle.

• Challenges force us to reevaluate what really matters.

• Dale values genuine interaction over polished personas.

• Small-town experiences gave him meaningful community bonds.

• Totality mirrors this by removing conference fluff in favor of real talk.

• Asking “what else is there?” breaks the cycle of complacency.

• Exploration is not just physical—it's emotional and intellectual.

• Rebelling isn’t destruction; it’s deep curiosity in action.

• Creativity is often undervalued in sales, but it’s a game changer.

• Totality brings hands-on, unexpected experiences to foster it.

• Real innovation starts by doing things differently—and with feeling.

• Pairing music and scent with moments enhances memory and meaning.

• Dale blends sensory cues and mystery to create Totality’s magic.

• People remember how you made them feel—not just what you said.

“Dale Dupree on Why Discomfort Is the Key to Living Fully”

“Totality 2025: Reinventing the Sales Conference Experience”

“The Rebellion Begins: Dale Dupree on Curiosity, Community & Creativity”

Tim Dyck is the founder of Best Culture Solutions and a seasoned expert in leadership development, employee engagement, and culture transformation. With a strong background in designing meaningful customer and team experiences, Tim is passionate about helping businesses thrive through intentional design and fractional leadership.

1. "Leadership starts with self. Leaders build leaders."
   – Highlighting the importance of designing a process that begins with personal discipline.

2. "If you don't have a process, how can you expect to achieve repeatable results?"
   – Emphasizing the foundational role of process in business and leadership success.

Mike and Tim explore how fractional work can help businesses fill critical gaps fast, manage uncertainty, and create memorable customer experiences. They break down leadership mindset, designing for success, and why managing expectations matters. This episode helps leaders rethink how they structure their team, processes, and strategy with clarity and intent.

• Fractionals help close gaps quickly without long-term commitment.

• They offer deep expertise in areas the business needs most.

• Fractional roles allow companies to stay agile during uncertain times.

• Consistency in customer and team experience increases loyalty.

• Details matter—like the entrance to a ballpark or a product touchpoint.

• Poorly designed experiences break trust and create risk.

• Borrowing from Disney, “weenies” are milestones or visuals that pull people forward.

• Every process should include visible progress markers to reduce confusion.

• These checkpoints build confidence and clarity in a journey.

• Jumping from A to Z rarely works—stepping stones reduce risk.

• Leaders should design backward (from the goal) and execute forward.

• A thoughtful process builds momentum and enables consistent delivery.

• Many leaders struggle due to lack of focus and process.

• True leadership begins with managing oneself effectively.

• Clear mindset = clarity of goals + consistent actions + defined expectations.

Why Fractional Leaders Drive Faster Business Impact

Designing for Experience: Lessons from Disney and Fractional Strategy

The Power of Process: How Fractional Work Builds Clarity and Trust

• Add a listener story or case study: Real-world success from a fractional project would deepen connection and credibility.

• Use audio chapters: Segmenting by topic (mindset, design, process) improves replay value.

• Summarize steps visually: A one-page PDF download of the “design backward, execute forward” model could increase engagement.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Jacquelyn: “It honestly looked like a high school or college team was playing a professional team.”

Constantine: “Passion. Commitment. Tenacity. These guys live and breathe this shit.”

The crew recaps Round 2 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, confessing their inaccurate picks and celebrating Constantine's 50% accuracy. With deep hockey insight and hilarious banter, they preview the East and West Conference Finals, reveal their personal favorites, and emphasize the emotional, strategic, and human side of playoff hockey.

1. Finding a Catalyst in Failure

• Jacquelyn admits picking the Leafs was a mistake—owning failure leads to better choices.

• The group learns from incorrect picks to sharpen predictions for the next round.

• Recognition of poor team performance (like the Caps) becomes a call to realign and refocus.

2. Performance Under Pressure

• Constantine praises players like Ottinger and Bobrovsky for stepping up in high-stakes moments.

• The playoffs reveal which players rise when it counts most.

• Success is tied not just to talent but to composure under fire.

3. Respect and Resilience in Sport

• The team highlights the powerful sportsmanship seen in handshakes and honoring personal struggles (e.g., Scheifele’s loss).

• Emotional intelligence and empathy make great athletes greater.

• Team support and unity often become the catalyst for comeback performances.

4. The Power of Passion

• “Live and breathe this shit”—Constantine’s line underscores the deep love for hockey.

• The community’s passion, including fans and commentators, fuels the game's momentum.

• Passion is infectious; it inspires action and elevates purpose.

5. Bold Predictions Drive Engagement

• All three make distinct, thoughtful predictions, showing conviction despite past mistakes.

• Debating outcomes encourages critical thinking and creative confidence.

• Even incorrect calls create opportunities to reflect, learn, and improve—hallmarks of catalyst-driven thinking.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

This lively roundtable features hockey fans Mike, Constantine, and Jacqueline as they break down the 2025 NHL Conference Finals. From unexpected losses to bold predictions and favorite hockey movies, their passionate insights and friendly banter bring energy to every play and player discussed.

1. "Sales is a thinking process. Business is a thinking process. Life is a thinking process. How are you thinking different about your process?" – Mike

2. "It honestly looked like a high school team was playing a professional team." – Jacqueline on the Capitals' performance.

3. "Connor McDavid deserves the chance to earn a Stanley Cup." – Constantine

In this episode, the crew dives into the NHL Conference Finals with unfiltered opinions, emotional takes, and hilarious side commentary. They revisit missed predictions, analyze key players and coaches, and share their picks for who moves on. It's all about hockey, heart, and how perspective can be your catalyst.

1. Bold Predictions & Upsets

• No one saw the Jets getting dominated by Dallas.

• Edmonton’s strong playoff showing surprised the group.

• Everyone chose the Panthers to win, even if they secretly rooted for the Hurricanes.

2. Mental Game is the Real Game

• The Leafs' emotional collapse highlighted playoff pressure.

• The Caps looked lost on the ice—poor positioning and ineffective power plays.

• Focus and mental resilience were discussed as crucial catalysts.

3. Respect Runs Deep in Hockey

• The handshake line after Game 7 was praised for its emotional weight.

• Mark Scheifele’s emotional performance reminded listeners of hockey’s human side.

• Respect and tradition were spotlighted as hidden catalysts for unity and growth.

4. Coaching as a Catalyst

• Brind’Amour and Paul Maurice received high praise for leadership.

• Coaching decisions and team mentality are game-changers in playoffs.

• Great coaching bridges talent and execution under pressure.

5. Pop Culture Meets Passion

• Favorite hockey movies? “Miracle” and “Mighty Ducks” win hearts.

• Lundqvist’s Netflix doc and commentary team banter added depth to the fandom.

• Loving the game—on and off the ice—is a reminder that passion is the true catalyst.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

This episode features a lively, hockey-fueled roundtable with Jacquelyn Nicholson, Constantine Johns, and host Mike Simmons. The trio dives into the second round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, sharing personal stories, team loyalties, spirited banter, and insightful predictions—all through the lens of sports as a catalyst for connection, memory, and emotion.

“Playoff hockey, hands down, is the best entertainment I’ve ever seen.” – Constantine Johns

In this high-energy episode, Jacquelyn, Constantine, and Mike dissect round one of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and make bold predictions for round two. With deep personal ties to the sport, they explore how hockey has shaped their memories and identity, proving sports can be a powerful catalyst in life.

1. Sports Create Catalytic Memories

• Constantine recalls growing up watching Patrick Roy and the Avalanche lift the Cup.

• Jacquelyn shares childhood memories of fuzzy-TV Blackhawks games and tabletop hockey.

• Mike remembers frozen pond skating and the thrill of playoff intensity.

2. Shared Passion Builds Community

• The team has fun tracking predictions, brackets, and emotional team support.

• Friendly rivalries and shared experiences form strong bonds.

• Their family traditions (like mailing a plastic Stanley Cup) reinforce connection.

3. Resilience as a Game Changer

• Mike highlights how goalie Connor Hellebuyck overcame adversity in Game 7 as a catalyst moment.

• Constantine expresses heartbreak over the Avalanche loss, linking emotion to team loyalty.

• They emphasize how players grow stronger under playoff pressure.

4. Bias, Loyalty, and Fun Drive Engagement

• The crew openly admits their emotional (not always logical) picks.

• Teams like the Leafs, Oilers, and Panthers stir heated opinions.

• The playful tension among the group reveals how personal investment drives deep passion.

5. Change and Transition Spark Strong Reactions

• The Arizona Coyotes' move to Utah triggered strong emotional reactions.

• Nostalgia for local teams and childhood connections fueled frustration and loss.

• These changes highlight how teams often serve as emotional anchors.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday.
Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

The Accidental CISO (AC) is an anonymous voice in cybersecurity who stumbled into the Chief Information Security Officer role through a mix of timing, skill, and necessity. With a background in IT operations and service delivery, AC found unexpected purpose, community, and a platform for candid reflection on security, leadership, and personal growth. He now hosts The Mindful Business Security Show, educating SMB leaders on practical security.

"I was just looking for a place to vent. I didn’t want to get fired for telling the truth."

"Security exists at the confluence of people, process, and technology—it's not just about tools."

"I'm more me under the persona than I actually am in real life."

In this episode, The Accidental CISO shares how he unintentionally stepped into a security leadership role, the power of anonymity, and how embracing his alter ego helped him find community, confidence, and a calling. He dives into the human side of cybersecurity, masking, and helping others through authenticity and honesty.

• AC became a CISO by accident, not ambition.

• He leaned into unfamiliar responsibilities and grew into the role.

• Sometimes, your catalyst finds you before you find it.

• Online anonymity gave AC a safe space to express frustrations and truth.

• He found a vibrant community that shared his struggles and passions.

• His persona became more “real” than the masked version of himself at work.

• AC believes in collaborative security—not saying “no” but saying “yes, and…”

• Security must align with business goals and risk tolerance.

• He views security as a multiplier when built with context and care.

• Risk is part of doing business and drives innovation.

• A mature approach balances safety with operational freedom.

• Security teams should advise, not own, risk decisions—that belongs to leadership.

• AC’s journey helped him understand and support his own neurodiversity.

• His experiences empowered deeper connection with his children, who face similar challenges.

• Real leadership starts with knowing who you are and finding your people.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in

Follow AC at - https://www.accidentalciso.net/

• "It is playoff hockey time—the best time of year."

• "If you're not a hockey fan, become one during the playoffs; the intensity is absolutely amazing."

• "Find a player, find a team, find a story—and enjoy your playoff hockey journey."

Mike and Jacqueline break down the opening round of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. They compare their brackets, share hockey fandom stories, and highlight key players to watch. It's a mix of friendly banter, expert insights, and encouragement for new fans to fall in love with playoff hockey’s unmatched excitement.

• Playoff hockey demands unmatched intensity—players dig deep to win.

• Fans' passion creates lasting loyalty, driving deep team connections.

• Find your personal "playoff moment" to ignite passion in your work or life.

• Playoff upsets and overtime games show that anything can happen.

• Embracing uncertainty builds resilience and reveals hidden strengths.

• Catalysts often emerge from surprising, pressure-filled moments.

• Heart picks (like cheering for the Senators) bring joy even if risky.

• Emotional decisions, when thoughtful, can lead to meaningful experiences.

• Don't be afraid to follow your heart when finding your catalyst.

• Hockey communities create bonds that last beyond the season.

• Shared experiences and team spirit are vital for long-term motivation.

• Building a community around your catalyst can speed up your growth.

• Win or lose, playoff hockey is about the journey, not just the Cup.

• Progress, learning, and enjoyment are key parts of finding fulfillment.

• Focus on the small wins and personal growth along your catalyst journey.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday.
Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in