Shows
The Unfolding Thought PodcastKyle McDowell: WE Is Tested at the TopIn this episode, Eric talks with Kyle McDowell, bestselling author of Begin With WE and former Fortune 10 executive, about why most culture initiatives fail long before they reach execution.Kyle argues that culture doesn’t break down because leaders lack frameworks, values statements, or motivation. It breaks down because real change requires personal cost. Political capital. Short-term discomfort. The willingness to be exposed.The conversation centers on Kyle’s 10 WEs framework, not as a set of aspirational principles, but as daily practices that either show up in behavior or quietly die on the wall. Eric and...
2026-02-021h 02
The Unfolding Thought PodcastAllen Thornburgh: Why Smart Organizations Stop GrowingIn this episode, Eric talks with Allen Thornburgh, a longtime marketing and fundraising leader who works with purpose-driven organizations to help them create experiences people actually care about.Allen shares why so many organizations plateau despite doing everything “right,” and how over-reliance on data can quietly suffocate imagination. Drawing on his work across Fortune 500 companies, faith-based nonprofits, and global humanitarian organizations, he explains why growth stalls when leaders treat people as data points instead of human beings with inner lives, stories, and desires.At the center of the conversation is imagination. Not as a buzzword, but...
2026-01-2651 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastMatthew Powell: The Long Game is a Moral ChoiceIn this episode, Eric talks with Matthew Powell, fourth-generation steward of Century Companies, about what it means to build a business designed to last for decades rather than quarters.Matthew shares his path from Wall Street and investment banking into a 100+ year family enterprise, and how that transition reshaped how he thinks about leadership, success, and responsibility. At the center of the conversation is stewardship: the idea that leaders are temporarily borrowing an organization from future generations, not optimizing it for a quick exit.They explore why family businesses can think differently about people, profit...
2026-01-1953 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastAnnalee Kruger: The Invisible Patient and the Cost of CaregivingIn this episode, Eric talks with Annalee Kruger, founder of CareRight Inc., longtime senior care consultant, and author of The Invisible Patient. Their conversation explores what family caregiving really looks like behind the scenes and why the people providing care often become the most overlooked ones in the system.Annalee draws from decades of experience working with families in crisis to explain how denial, lack of planning, and misunderstanding of aging and dementia compound stress for spouses and adult children. She shares why waiting until a medical emergency forces decisions almost always leads to worse outcomes, higher...
2026-01-121h 14
The Unfolding Thought PodcastAxel Burlin: Beyond Brain RotIn this episode, Eric talks with Axel Burlin, author of Beyond Brain Rot, about internet addiction, algorithmic feeds, and why so many well-intentioned attempts to “use your phone less” quietly fail.Axel shares his own experience growing up online, from video games and forums to endless scrolling, and how a breaking point during college led him to rethink not just his habits but the assumptions behind them. Rather than relying on willpower, blockers, or dopamine detoxes, Axel outlines a mindset-level shift that reframes algorithmic feeds as something fundamentally misaligned with how we want to live.The...
2026-01-0558 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastKen Boynton: Making Communication More HumanIn this episode, Eric talks with Ken Boynton—storyteller, communication consultant, former actor and voiceover artist, and co-founder of Message Glue. Ken has spent decades helping leaders, teams, and organizations communicate more clearly and more humanly across stages, screens, meetings, and moments that matter.The conversation explores what “storytelling” actually means in real organizational life, why most communication fails before it ever reaches the slide deck or script, and how performance anxiety, rigid frameworks, and over-engineered systems often get in the way of genuine connection.Ken shares stories from his career in theater, voice acting, corpor...
2025-12-291h 22
The Unfolding Thought PodcastPeter Greer: Rethinking Extreme PovertyIn this episode, Eric talks with Peter Greer—President & CEO of HOPE International, longtime practitioner in global poverty alleviation, and author/co-author of eighteen books including Mission Drift, Rooting for Rivals, and How Leaders Lose Their Way. The conversation goes deep into what poverty really is, why traditional aid often fails to produce lasting change, and how dignity-centered development can transform individuals and communities.Peter shares how HOPE International focuses on long-term job creation, savings groups, and microenterprise rather than handouts, and why understanding the full “four domains of poverty”—material, social, spiritual, and internal—shapes more effective...
2025-12-2242 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastTamsen Webster: Making Ideas Make SenseIn this episode, Eric talks with Tamsen Webster—message designer, strategist, speaker, and author of Find Your Red Thread and Say What They Can’t Unhear. The conversation explores how ideas spread, why so many messages fail at the point of first explanation, and what it takes to create understanding and lasting change without coercion.Tamsen explains her work as an “English-to-English translator,” helping leaders, founders, and thinkers transform complex or technical ideas into something others can understand, believe, and act on. She and Eric dig into dual-process thinking, accelerated perspective shifts, how adults actually learn, and why mess...
2025-12-1557 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastJason Keath: More Bad IdeasIn this episode, Eric talks with Jason Keath—founder of Social Fresh, longtime creative strategist, and author of The Case for More Bad Ideas. The conversation explores why creativity is misunderstood, why most organizations limit their own creative potential, and why truly inventive work comes from consistent practice rather than inspiration.Jason explains how he approaches idea generation, why “bad ideas” matter, and what people get wrong about brainstorming. Eric and Jason also dig into discipline vs. inspiration, the value of keeping an organized idea archive, how constraints unlock better work, and how AI fits into the creati...
2025-12-081h 12
The Unfolding Thought PodcastSteve Kozel: The Myth of ControlIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum talks with strategist and thinker Steve Kozel about the tension between our craving for certainty and the messy reality of complex systems. Steve—Director of Strategy and Marketing Technology at Osborne Barr Paramore—shares what he’s learned from years helping organizations make better decisions in conditions that can never be fully predicted.They explore what strategy actually means (and why the word itself often obscures more than it clarifies), how fear and risk aversion shape corporate culture, and why “best practices” often kill the very innovation they promi...
2025-12-011h 54
The Unfolding Thought PodcastGreg Bergdorf: From Guitar Riffs to Real Estate PitchesIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum talks with Greg Bergdorf—founding guitarist of the Grammy-nominated, gold-record band Zebrahead—about creativity, reinvention, and the mindset behind mastering more than one craft.Greg reflects on his journey from garage rehearsals and backyard keggers to international tours, and what it was like to walk away from fame to build a new life in real estate. He shares how lessons from music—persistence, collaboration, and curiosity—translate into success in any field, and why hard work still beats talent when the two meet on stage or in business...
2025-11-241h 17
The Unfolding Thought PodcastLance Mortlock: The Outside In, Inside Out of BusinessIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum talks with Dr. Lance Mortlock—Managing Partner for Industrials & Energy at EY Canada, adjunct professor, and author of Outside In, Inside Out and Disaster Proof. Together they explore how leaders can create clarity and resilience in a world defined by uncertainty, disruption, and accelerating change.Lance shares what decades of advising executives have taught him about why most strategies fail—not because they’re wrong, but because they’re poorly executed—and how his “diamond framework” helps organizations balance external insight with internal capability. The conversation ranges from the evolu...
2025-11-1744 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastMitch Joel: The Entrepreneur's Mindset and the Danger of StasisIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Mitch Joel — entrepreneur, author of Six Pixels of Separation and CTRL ALT Delete, and host of the podcasts Thinking with Mitch Joel and Groove: The No Treble Podcast. Mitch shares his perspective on entrepreneurship, creativity, and why “success is the anomaly.”They explore how Thinkers One is democratizing access to thought leadership, why change—not stasis—is the natural state of business and culture, and how our relationship with technology and media shapes what it means to be “social.” Mitch also reflects on his decades-long journey across...
2025-11-101h 14
The Unfolding Thought PodcastRory O'Neill: Inside the Matrix of American Youth SoccerIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Rory O’Neill—emergency physician, coach, and creator of the Coach Rory Soccer YouTube channel (with more than 50,000 subscribers). Rory blends the discipline of medicine with the craft of player development, offering a rare dual perspective on learning, leadership, and what’s broken in U.S. youth soccer.They discuss how early habits from baseball shaped Rory’s approach to medicine and coaching, why building from the back isn’t just a tactic but a philosophy of learning, and how systemic incentives—money, structure, and culture—are...
2025-11-031h 39
The Unfolding Thought PodcastJeff Meredith: The Stories Behind HomelessnessIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Jeff Meredith, Associate Creative Director at RKD Group and longtime writer for rescue missions across the U.S. Over the past two decades, Jeff has interviewed more than a thousand people who’ve experienced homelessness, addiction, and recovery—gaining rare insight into what drives collapse and what makes renewal possible.Jeff shares what he’s learned from the front lines of homelessness: how family breakdown, trauma, and addiction often intersect; why accountability and forgiveness are essential to recovery; and what the most successful rescue missions do dif...
2025-10-2750 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastThe Ad Contrarian, Bob Hoffman: How Marketing Lost Its MindIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Bob Hoffman — author of Adscam and The Ad Contrarian — about the uncomfortable truths at the heart of digital advertising.Bob explains how adtech evolved into one of the largest surveillance systems ever built, why marketers mistake data quantity for quality, and how political deregulation is quietly eroding online privacy.They unpack the illusion of precision in behavioral targeting, the billions lost to fraud and waste, and why empathy and ethics—not algorithms—may be the only path to rebuilding trust between brands and the publ...
2025-10-201h 26
The Unfolding Thought PodcastMartin Bihl: This Playground Brought to You by Miller Brewing CompanyIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Martin Bihl — writer, strategist, podcaster, and self-described “recovering ad man.” Known for his sharp wit and reflective takes on marketing, media, and the human condition, Martin challenges conventional thinking about creativity, capitalism, and the culture of business.The conversation explores how advertising both reflects and shapes our shared values — from branded playgrounds to the myth of the “creative genius.” Martin shares his experience navigating agency life, why he created The Agency Review to critique the industry from within, and how his contrarian curiosity fuels his writing and...
2025-10-131h 21
The Geek WithinEp238: Eric Pratum🎙️ In Episode #238 of The Geek Within, my guest is Eric Pratum. He is the Founder of Inbound and Agile, a marketing and communications firm focused on helping you gain confidence in your marketing spend and strategy. Eric is also the host of The Unfolding Thought podcast.🔗 You can engage Eric here:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericpratum/Website - https://unfoldingthought.com/
2025-10-081h 08
The Unfolding Thought PodcastNeen James: Creating #ChampagneMoments and Redefining LuxuryIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Neen James—leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Attention Pays and the soon-to-be-released Exceptional Experiences. Known for her “sassy Aussie energy” and straight-talk frameworks, Neen challenges traditional ideas of luxury, arguing that it’s not about money or things but about moments of human connection.She explains the research behind the four luxury mindsets, why empathy and conscientiousness matter for leadership, and how small, repeatable acts of attention can create what she calls “champagne moments.” From systemizing thoughtfulness in everyday life to thinking like a concierge...
2025-10-0650 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastTara Hamberger: Building AI-Powered Support for Family CaregiversIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Tara Hamberger, founder and CEO of RootedCare+, about her mission to provide 24/7, text-based support to unpaid family caregivers.Tara shares the personal caregiving experiences that led her to launch RootedCare+, why she chose SMS over apps, and how Roo, their compassionate AI assistant, delivers emotional support, resource guidance, and even microgrants. She explains the challenges of designing AI for empathy, the importance of accessibility in tech for caregivers, and how RootedCare+’s funding model directly fuels aid for those who need it most.To...
2025-09-291h 07
The Unfolding Thought PodcastRob Gallaher: Profit Sharing That Helps Employees Think Like OwnersIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Rob Gallaher about the profit sharing system he built after starting and scaling multiple businesses. Rob walks through his early missteps with quarterly bonuses, why behavior did not change, and the simple changes that did move the needle: monthly payouts, a meaningful minimum threshold, and consistent communication that teaches people how daily decisions affect profit. He explains how to align owners and teams, what to show the team, and how profit sharing can free an owner to step back without the business slipping.Topics Explored:
2025-09-2257 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastColman Swisher: From CIO to Fighting Private EquityIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Colman Swisher, former CIO of an international healthcare logistics company, about his unexpected journey from being the first technology hire to leading a fight against private equity–driven decisions.Colman shares how he built critical systems from the ground up—transforming operations that once ran on little more than email into a fully integrated, data-driven logistics network. He explains what it’s like to navigate the high-stakes world of medical supply chain, why private equity ownership can create systemic risk, and how values-based leadership can hold t...
2025-09-1559 min
The Unfolding Thought PodcastShawn Kemp: From Xbox to Facebook to Blockchain to Art to Non-GMOIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Shawn Kemp, a product leader, startup advisor, and artist whose journey spans the worlds of technology, entrepreneurship, and creative expression. From his early days at Microsoft working on Xbox and Silverlight, to co-founding mission-driven companies and engaging deeply with food systems and transparency, Shawn brings a rare blend of systems thinking and emotional insight.Shawn opens up about the impact of early trauma, the pursuit of success, and the ways he’s learned to prioritize meaning and presence over prestige. He shares his current focus on...
2025-09-081h 39
The Unfolding Thought PodcastBob Knorpp: What 17 Years of Podcasting Teaches YouIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Bob Knorpp, consultant, speaker, and longtime host of The Beancast, one of the earliest and longest-running marketing podcasts. Bob brings a sharp perspective on how podcasting, advertising, and marketing have evolved over the last two decades—and what hasn’t changed.Bob shares his journey from agency life to running a consultancy and hosting a podcast that has endured since 2008. He explains why format and consistency matter more than chasing trends, why authenticity always beats adtech gimmicks, and why we should think differently about metrics—shifti...
2025-09-011h 09
The Unfolding Thought Podcast45–Courtney McAra: Taming the Chaos — Marketing OpsIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum is joined by Courtney McAra, founder of Mustang MarTech, to explore the art and science of marketing operations. Courtney shares her journey from a startup generalist to a highly specialized marketing ops consultant who’s helped teams at places like SurveyMonkey and Marketo bring order to chaos.She breaks down the critical components of a functioning marketing operations infrastructure—from clean folder structures and naming conventions to lifecycle management, compliance, and campaign execution. Courtney also discusses the real-world challenges teams face when scaling their MarTech stacks and offe...
2025-08-251h 05
The Unfolding Thought Podcast44–Michael Whitmer: Food, Trust, and the Stories We TellIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Michael Whitmer, Vice President at Look East and a longtime strategist in the food and agriculture space. Michael has spent more than two decades helping food brands and commodity organizations communicate clearly, build credibility, and connect with consumers on what matters most.They discuss how food intersects with identity, why consumer trust in institutions has eroded, and how organizations can communicate values—not just facts—to earn that trust back. Michael shares lessons from his work with the Illinois Soybean Association, The Center for Food Inte...
2025-08-181h 06
The Unfolding Thought Podcast43–Gini Dietrich: Building Trust and Growing with the PESO ModelIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Gini Dietrich, founder of Spin Sucks and creator of the PESO Model©—a strategic framework for aligning paid, earned, shared, and owned media to build reputation and deliver business results.Gini shares lessons from her work advising brands, training communicators, and building a thriving media and education company. She explains how trust is built and broken in communications, what it takes to sustain content over time, and why PR needs a seat at the executive table. We also talk about the mindset behind showing up...
2025-08-1148 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast42–Peter Kelly-Detwiler: The Future of Energy and SustainabilityIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Peter Kelly-Detwiler, an expert in global energy markets and sustainability. Peter discusses the dynamic interplay between technology, economics, and policy shaping the energy sector today and into the future.Peter addresses critical issues like the complexities of integrating renewable energy sources, the role of AI and advanced software in optimizing grid efficiency, and the geopolitical forces impacting energy markets. He also shares insights into cutting-edge developments such as modular nuclear power, advanced geothermal technology, and innovative storage solutions.Topics Explored: The Evolution...
2025-08-041h 12
The Unfolding Thought Podcast39–Rick Beato, Pace Layers, and the Evolution of MusicIn this solo episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum explores the decline of album sales in light of Rick Beato’s recent video on the best-selling albums of the 21st century. Rather than attributing the change solely to streaming or market fragmentation, Eric frames the issue through the Pace Layers model—offering a more nuanced explanation for why physical albums have faded and why that doesn’t mean music is in decline.He walks through the origins of the album format, how it became embedded in our culture, and why innovations like streaming reshape not just d...
2025-08-0110 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast40–Ian Mai: Mastering ADHD and Impulse Control through Inner StrengthIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum is joined by Ian Mai, an ADHD and impulse-control coach dedicated to helping people understand and transform their impulsive behaviors into strengths. Ian shares his deeply personal journey—from confronting internet addiction and infidelity to achieving meaningful and sustainable recovery through ADHD awareness and inner strength training.Ian outlines the psychological foundations of impulsive behavior, describing how emotional disregulation, dopamine-seeking, and conditioned responses play crucial roles. He provides practical strategies for building emotional resilience and impulse control, emphasizing mindfulness, intentional discomfort, and honest self-reflection.This co...
2025-07-281h 23
The Unfolding Thought Podcast41–Ryan Scott: The Intersection of Behavior & AIIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum talks with Ryan Scott, Head of Product at DNA Behavior, a company focused on delivering precise behavioral analytics using AI and machine learning. Ryan outlines his career growth from finance intern to AI innovator, highlighting how behavioral insights can dramatically improve business outcomes.Ryan discusses the innovative ways DNA Behavior utilizes AI—from predicting communication styles and job titles based on minimal data, to automating client interactions through advanced chatbots. We delve into practical applications of AI for businesses of all sizes, the challenges of integrating AI in...
2025-07-211h 10
The Unfolding Thought Podcast38–David Greer: Building Entrepreneurial Clarity and Conquering AddictionIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with David Greer, entrepreneurial coach and author of "Wind In Your Sails: Vital Strategies That Accelerate Your Entrepreneurial Growth." David shares powerful lessons from his journey—from building and exiting a successful software company to confronting and overcoming alcoholism, and eventually shaping a fulfilling career coaching other entrepreneurs.David explains the importance of strategic clarity, intentional quarterly planning, and the value of aligning personal strengths with professional goals. He emphasizes the critical balance of personal resilience and high performance, offering practical advice on how entrepreneurs ca...
2025-07-141h 17
The Unfolding Thought Podcast37–Shannon Watson: Getting Beyond PoliticsIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum speaks with Shannon Watson, Executive Director of Majority in the Middle, an organization committed to fostering bipartisan collaboration and more effective governance. Shannon shares her journey and insights into why America has grown increasingly divided politically, and more importantly, what we can do about it.Shannon highlights how the erosion of trust at local and national levels affects policy effectiveness, the critical role of relationship-building across ideological lines, and why finding common ground is more crucial than ever. We explore historical insights on political cooperation, recent data...
2025-07-071h 33
The Unfolding Thought Podcast36–Ryan Hogan: The Recruiting Industry is BrokenEric Pratum sits down with Ryan Hogan, founder of Talent Harbor and the creative mind behind ventures like Run For Your Lives and Hunt a Killer. Ryan shares insights from his unique journey—from entrepreneurial experiments as a child, through notable successes and tough lessons, to his current mission of reshaping the recruiting industry.Ryan discusses the flawed standard recruiting model, his innovative "Recruiting as a Service" approach, and the critical importance of hiring for cultural alignment rather than just skills. He opens up about lessons learned from his entrepreneurial and military careers, emphasizing resilience, the power of...
2025-06-301h 11
The Unfolding Thought Podcast35–Jessica Rhodes: Master the Podcast Guesting GameIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum sits down with Jessica Rhodes, founder and CEO of Interview Connections. Jessica discusses her journey from booking her dad's podcast interviews to establishing an agency that has facilitated tens of thousands of guest appearances.She explains the nuances of becoming a successful podcast guest, addressing common pitfalls, misconceptions, and the strategies behind making every podcast appearance a meaningful part of your broader marketing and networking efforts. Jessica also explores how podcast guesting can yield impressive returns, even from shows with smaller audiences, emphasizing the importance of...
2025-06-2358 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast34–Dustin Ryen: The Empire of the Coconut ShuckerEric Pratum sits down with Dustin Ryen—entrepreneur, marketer, and yes, professional coconut shucker. Dustin shares his journey, from early entrepreneurial lessons learned while selling sandpaper to becoming known as "The Coconut Guy."Dustin reveals how personal struggles and early life experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit, his willingness to embrace change and risk, and why authenticity has been central to his lasting success. He discusses the importance of emotional resonance in business, insights gained from difficult experiences—including being fired by Eric—and why finding joy in your work matters so much.This conversation explores themes...
2025-06-161h 09
The Unfolding Thought Podcast33–Tractor Mike: The Future of Small Farming and Rural LivingEric Pratum sits down with Mike Wiles—YouTube’s Tractor Mike—to explore the future of rural America, small-scale farming, and compact tractor markets. Mike shares his extensive experience, beginning with his early days working an apple orchard, through his career managing farm equipment dealerships, to educating hundreds of thousands of people through his popular YouTube channel.Mike discusses the growing interest in small-time farming and rural living, particularly among people leaving urban areas. He provides insights into the economic factors, market shifts, and demographic changes affecting this movement. The conversation also covers critical issues such as educat...
2025-06-0951 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast32–Jes Deaver: Imagining Our Architectural Future Through Science FictionIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Jes Deaver, an architect and storyteller who uses interdisciplinary thinking, film, and science fiction to help communities envision better futures. Jes talks candidly about her journey from working with specialty cameras on film sets to exploring architecture through personal and collaborative projects, including the meaningful partnership with her architect father.Jes shares fascinating stories of how she uses storytelling to make architecture relatable and exciting to the public, discussing her belief that everyone is an expert in architecture through their lived experiences. The episode...
2025-06-0248 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast31–Hugh Massie: Reaching 1 Billion Annually with Behavioral InsightsEric Pratum speaks with Hugh Massie—founder and executive chairman of DNA Behavior—a behavioral insights company that helps individuals and organizations measure and leverage natural behavior patterns to drive financial performance, cultural alignment, and leadership effectiveness.Hugh shares his journey from chartered accountant in Australia to global entrepreneur, explains how “financial DNA” and “business DNA” were born, and reveals how behavioral insights can predict profit, optimize hiring, reduce friction in business processes, and guide strategy in even the most complex environments.This episode explores not only Hugh’s unique approach to leadership and entrepreneurship, but also how D...
2025-05-2635 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast30–Kari Zeller: Humanity's Buffalo MomentEric Pratum sits down with Kari Zeller, whose journey began as an Air Force officer confronting the critical realities of aircraft maintenance during wartime. Kari explains how her leadership evolution from the battlefield to the corporate world shaped her approach to organizational mobilization—a distinct departure from traditional change management. Together, they explore why aligning strategy, structure, culture, and human engagement is essential for successfully navigating complex transitions, including mergers, acquisitions, and shifts in organizational eras.Kari also addresses today's pressing leadership challenges around AI disruption, accelerating technological change, and the profound psychological aspects of human transitions, ur...
2025-05-191h 11
The Unfolding Thought Podcast29–Derek Mulhern: The Human Side of Organizational StrategyIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum talks with Derek Mulhern—a consultant often working with nonprofits and associations to align their strategic vision with practical human-centered solutions. With over 15 years of experience in organizational strategy, team alignment, and board governance, Derek shares powerful insights into why many organizations struggle with effective change implementation and how true transformation hinges upon understanding and addressing interpersonal dynamics.Derek discusses why simply applying "best practices" often misses the mark, leading to burnout, frustration, and organizational friction. Through stories and real-world examples, Derek illustrates how to better approach or...
2025-05-121h 08
The Unfolding Thought Podcast28–Alan Fine: Exploring the Inner Game to GROWOn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Alan Fine, renowned coach and one of the originators of GROW. Alan takes listeners through his unexpected journey into coaching, from a childhood tennis tournament to shaping global leadership strategies. The conversation delves into how coaching is not merely about asking questions, but also about creating environments where people can safely explore and harness their own potential. Alan emphasizes the importance of choice, focus, and how our inner dialogues influence performance.Listeners will discover that the simplicity of effective coaching tools often masks their...
2025-05-051h 26
The Unfolding Thought Podcast27–Sheila Burkett: From Corporate Tech to Racing Cars and Digital InnovationIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Sheila Burkett, a tech entrepreneur whose background spans finance, racing, historic redevelopment, and digital innovation. Sheila’s career started at Edward Jones, where she advanced from intern to general partner, gaining insight into technology and leadership along the way. Sheila went on to co-found Spry Digital, leveraging open-source technology to empower small and medium-sized businesses with the digital solutions they developSheila’s journey illustrates how embracing risk, nurturing resilience, and championing innovation can lead to opportunity and impact. Sheila is also a vocal advo...
2025-04-281h 18
The Unfolding Thought Podcast26–Mandy Maddela Hoskinson: Evolving with Social MediaIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum chats with Mandy Hoskinson—a digital marketer and agency founder whose journey took her from UCLA’s nascent social media team to founding her own agency in Los Angeles. Along the way, Mandy led social campaigns for marquee brands (like CBS primetime shows, the LA Olympic bid, and more), using her holistic, multicultural perspective to connect data and storytelling. She shares how seizing the right moments (and sometimes pure luck) catapulted her from being an intern dabbling in “the new Facebook events feature” to orchestrating global campaigns with large, d...
2025-04-211h 23
The Unfolding Thought Podcast25–Kimberly Beckley: Rethinking Beauty School DreamsIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum welcomes Simplifying Beauty founder Kimberly Beckley, a lash artist, salon owner, and soon-to-be academy director with 20 years of beauty industry experience. Kimberly isn’t your typical beauty professional: she’s driven by the idea that real success comes from running a human-focused, sustainable business—not just chasing trends or hustling 24/7. Kimberly opens up about: Her own journey from corporate environments to entrepreneurship, seeking a healthy work-life balance for herself and her staff. The hard truth about the 37% annual attrition rate in cosmetology, fueled by beauty schools that fail t...
2025-04-1457 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast24–Ted Wright – The Timeless Power of Word-of-Mouth MarketingIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum chats with Ted Wright, the unstoppable force behind the word-of-mouth marketing agency Fizz. Whether you’ve sipped on a Pabst Blue Ribbon after hearing it was suddenly “cool,” tried chocolate milk as your new post-gym recovery hack, or embraced Intel’s early dual-core chip for gaming, there’s a good chance Ted’s work was behind it. Ted insists that the most human brand wins, so his focus is on finding the right story—one that’s authentic, interesting, and relevant—then allowing everyday advocates to share it.Topics Explor...
2025-04-071h 07
The Unfolding Thought Podcast23–Jeremy Haselwood – From Rap Dreams to Purposeful EDGEIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum welcomes Jeremy Haselwood—a dynamic marketer, speaker, and two-time author who once poured his heart into making it big in the music industry. Reflecting on experiences from rap battles to marketing consulting for Fortune 500 clients, Jeremy shares how he discovered his “why,” found balance after years of full-throttle hustle, and now helps organizations plan and execute with true purpose.Topics Explored: Rap Hustle to Marketing Muscle: Discover how sleepless nights, on-stage setbacks, and raw ambition in Jeremy’s 20s sharpened his resilience and shaped his approach...
2025-03-3144 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast22–Lucas Mack – Every man dies, but not every man really livesIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum welcomes Lucas Mack—former morning TV reporter, creative agency founder, and head of brand for Kubota. Through personal stories of adversity and triumph, Lucas explains how telling the truth—both to yourself and to others—can become a powerful catalyst for transformation in business and life.Topics Explored: Resilience Rooted in Hardship - Lucas shares how surviving a difficult childhood taught him not only grit but also the importance of authenticity. Finding the Real Story - From local news segments to advertising campaigns, Lucas shows how a...
2025-03-2447 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast21–Juli Rush – Foresight, Grief, and the Courage to Let Futures EndIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum welcomes Juli Rush, whose work spans educating everyone from middle-schoolers to adults in strategic foresight and supporting individuals as a death doula. Drawing on her background in thanatology (the study of death and dying) and her role as Director of the Foresight Activation Lab at the University of Houston, Juli reveals how these seemingly different fields share a surprising thread: When the Future Dies — Juli explains her framework—Hospice, Vigil, Compost—for guiding both individuals and organizations through endings. It’s not just about literal death; it’s about le...
2025-03-171h 13
The Unfolding Thought Podcast20–Andy Bales – From Poverty to PurposeIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum welcomes Andy Bales, whose extensive experience spans from the Door of Faith Mission in Des Moines to serving as CEO of Union Rescue Mission in Los Angeles—often described as the epicenter of homelessness in the U.S. Andy dives into the forces that lead individuals into homelessness, the hidden traumas that often go unseen, and why providing a roof alone won’t repair lives. Sharing personal stories of heartbreak and renewed hope—from a father coping with his son’s tragic accident to families left with no support...
2025-03-101h 03
The Unfolding Thought Podcast19–Dan Reus – Don't Call It A Perpetual Motion MachineIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum talks with Dan Reus, founder of Openly Disruptive, about how creative pivots and unexpected collaborations can drive innovation—whether in theme parks, brand marketing, or entire city ecosystems. Dan’s path stretches from designing roller-coaster experiences to advising corporate leaders on how to align competing teams, and even competitors, around a shared vision of the future.Together, Eric and Dan explore: Finding the Real “Why” — How Dan’s endless questioning—and a few unorthodox requests—uncovered the deeper reason behind big-budget ideas. Innovation as an “Experience Matrix”...
2025-03-031h 15
The Unfolding Thought Podcast18–Adam Wallace – Overcoming Constraints to Capture ValueIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum chats with Adam Wallace, who has spent a career solving the puzzle of why good plans so often fail in execution. Adam’s background spans broadway technical direction, multi-billion dollar oil projects, enterprise software rollouts, and now a family office portfolio. Across these diverse domains, he’s seen the same patterns: people aim for the “promised land,” but hidden assumptions, outdated incentives, and unspoken constraints stop them from acting on what they say they want.Together, Eric and Adam explore: From Corporate Fixer to Family Office...
2025-02-241h 11
The Unfolding Thought Podcast17–Bill Jacobs – Game over. Fundraising no longer works?In this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, host Eric Pratum interviews Bill Jacobs, who has spent over two decades helping nonprofits use data to drive better fundraising results. Bill explains how donor behavior is shifting—especially in today’s economic and cultural environment—and why many nonprofits find themselves behind the curve when it comes to analytics and innovation.Together, Eric and Bill explore: Fundraising as Both “Art & Science”: Balancing data insights with creative storytelling to grow sustainable donor relationships. The Agency Shake-Up: How private equity and cultural mismatches are reshaping the fundraising agency world. Changing D...
2025-02-1754 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast16–Eliot Frick – Pioneering the UnknownIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Eliot Frick, founder of Bigwidesky, to discuss how our deeply ingrained, mechanical view of business and culture can actually limit innovation and true leadership. Eliot explains why some challenges can’t be solved simply by adopting best practices, and how leaders can learn to operate effectively in uncharted territory.Together, Eric and Eliot delve into: The tension between reductionist “just give me the solution” thinking and the reality of ever-evolving, complex problems. Jobs to Be Done Theory and the famous “milkshake” example—why simply copyi...
2025-02-101h 21
From There to HereEric Pratum: Go Your Own WayIn this episode, Eric Pratum talks about a lack of attachments, using the time paid by others, the ease of pain with exposure, a complicated relationship with social media, learning empathy on the job, encouraging the feeling of insight, becoming what you spend your time on, and recognizing people (and their mindset) as the foundation.Eric Pratum is a marketing strategist and podcast host with a background in digital marketing, analytics, and integrated marketing. He has worked with Fortune 100 companies, thousands of nonprofits, and numerous other organizations large and small, helping them develop data-driven, audience-centered strategies that...
2025-02-051h 22
The Unfolding Thought Podcast15–Carlos Martinez – Bridging Science, Leadership, and CliftonStrengthsIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Carlos Martinez, Site Director at MilliporeSigma, discusses his journey from growing up in Puerto Rico to work touching on the Human Genome Project and leading innovation in life sciences. Carlos shares how his passion for bridging ideas, disciplines, and people has shaped his leadership style and his career.Carlos dives into the power of CliftonStrengths as a tool for unlocking individual and team potential, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and relationship-building in effective leadership. He also reflects on how his unique upbringing, academic pursuits, and early professional experiences inspired...
2025-02-031h 31
The Unfolding Thought Podcast14–Andy Hite – From Broadway to the Boardroom: Empowering Leaders and TeamsIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Andy Hite, founder of Scaling Minds, shares his unique journey from a career in musical theater and production to becoming an executive coach for CEOs and leadership teams. Andy’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of personal transformation.We dive into Andy’s experiences with leadership—both good and bad—and how they shaped his approach to coaching. He discusses the psychological and emotional aspects of leadership, the critical role of self-awareness, and how to empower teams to achieve their full potential. Whether you’re leading...
2025-01-2751 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast13–Julian Scadden – From Blue Collar Roots to Transforming Trades LeadershipIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Julian Scadden, President and CEO of Nexstar Network, shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings to leading one of the most respected organizations in the trades industry. Julian talks about the personal and professional challenges he faced, how he overcame them, and his philosophy on leadership, growth, and community.Julian also discusses the role of Nexstar Network in helping trades businesses thrive by providing top-tier training, mentorship, and operational support. From his own experiences as a business owner to his current role as a visionary leader, Julian offers actionable...
2025-01-2056 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast12–Kevin Hughes – Branding Athletes and Rewriting the Rules of Sports MarketingIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Kevin Hughes, founder of Walker/Miles, dives into the seismic shifts in athlete branding and sports marketing in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. Drawing on a career that spans professional basketball, HR, and creative leadership—including as the Minnesota Twins’ creative director—Kevin offers a unique perspective on navigating the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and innovation.Kevin reveals the essential role of authenticity and adaptability in building impactful brands, from young athletes to established professionals. He shares how NIL is disrupting traditional pathways in sports, creating opportunities for at...
2025-01-131h 04
The Unfolding Thought Podcast11–Root Cause Analysis – Business Meditation 7In this seventh business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum guides you through a Root Cause Analysis—a practical framework for identifying and addressing the deeper issues behind your challenges.Often, quick fixes and surface-level solutions fail to create lasting change. Root Cause Analysis helps you dig deeper, asking “Why?” multiple times to uncover the fundamental problem and develop actionable solutions. Through this guided exercise, you’ll learn to approach challenges with clarity, explore meaningful solutions, and take the first step toward resolving recurring issues.Whether you’re managing workplace challenges, personal relationships, or systemi...
2025-01-0914 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast10–Scenario Planning – Business Meditation 6In this sixth business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum guides you through Scenario Planning—a strategic tool for exploring possible futures and making better decisions in the face of uncertainty.Scenario Planning helps you anticipate different ways the future might unfold, so you can prepare for opportunities and mitigate risks. Through this guided exercise, you’ll imagine three distinct scenarios—best-case, realistic, and worst-case—and outline actions to help you navigate each one.Whether you’re managing a complex challenge, planning for growth, or making a difficult decision, this episode will help you gain c...
2025-01-0812 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast9–Force Field Analysis – Business Meditation 5In this fifth business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum introduces Force Field Analysis, a practical tool for identifying and managing the forces driving or restraining progress toward your goals.Through this guided exercise, you’ll learn how to identify the positive forces pushing you toward success and the negative forces holding you back. By amplifying the driving forces and reducing the restraining ones, you can focus your energy where it matters most and make meaningful progress.Whether you’re tackling a work project, personal challenge, or strategic decision, this episode will help you...
2025-01-0712 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast8–Backcasting – Business Meditation 4In this fourth business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum guides you through a Backcasting exercise—a practical tool for mapping out the steps between your present and your long-term vision.Backcasting flips traditional planning on its head. Instead of starting with today and moving forward, you begin with your ideal future and work backward to uncover the milestones and actions needed to achieve your goals. Through this guided exercise, you’ll create a clear roadmap for success and learn how to keep your daily actions aligned with your ultimate vision.Whether you’re pla...
2025-01-0612 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast7–Visioning – Business Meditation 3In this third business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum guides you through a Visioning exercise—a powerful tool for clarifying your goals and aligning your actions with your aspirations.Visioning is more than setting goals. It’s about creating a vivid mental picture of your future and using that clarity to make intentional decisions today. Through this guided exercise, you’ll explore your desired future, identify the milestones needed to achieve it, and uncover the first actionable steps to start your journey.Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone looking to bring fo...
2025-01-0513 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast6–Immunity to Change X-ray – Business Meditation 2In this second business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum introduces the Immunity to Change X-Ray, a framework developed by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey to uncover the hidden barriers preventing meaningful change.The Immunity to Change framework reveals how unconscious fears and competing commitments hold us back, even when we’re motivated to improve. Through a guided exercise, you’ll explore your own commitments, uncover the big assumptions driving them, and learn how to test these beliefs to unlock progress.Whether you’re a manager, parent, or someone striving to make lasting change...
2025-01-0412 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast5–GROW – Business Meditation 1In this first business meditation of the Unfolding Thought series, Eric Pratum introduces the GROW framework, a simple yet powerful tool for clarifying challenges and taking actionable steps forward.GROW—an acronym for Goal, Reality, Options, and Way Forward—is widely used by coaches and managers to empower individuals, foster accountability, and generate meaningful solutions. Through a guided exercise, you’ll have the opportunity to apply GROW to your own challenges, uncover new possibilities, and identify your next steps.Whether you’re a leader, manager, or simply looking to gain clarity in your personal or professi...
2025-01-0313 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast4–Unfolding Thought – Business Meditations Series IntroductionIn this introduction to Unfolding Thought business meditations, Eric Pratum shares what makes this series of episodes different and why it might be just what you need to spark new ideas and gain actionable insights.Designed for busy professionals, these short, focused meditations offer a unique opportunity to explore new concepts, strategies, and ways of thinking in just 10 minutes a day. Whether you’re commuting, preparing for your day, or taking a quiet moment to reflect, these sessions provide practical tools and thought-provoking exercises that you can adapt and apply immediately.If you’ve ever star...
2025-01-0302 min
The Unfolding Thought Podcast3–Jess Villegas – Intentional Leadership and One Long CommuteIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum sits down with Jess Villegas, a business performance consultant and founder of Acuity Business Consulting. Jess shares his journey from accounting to leadership and consulting, offering insights into the power of intentionality, preparation, and belief in others.Through sharing his experiences, Jess discusses the importance of balancing big-picture vision with hands-on problem-solving, the value of mentorship and trust, and the hard decisions leaders must sometimes make to improve team and organizational performance. Jess’s reflections on leadership, personal growth, and the lessons he’s learned along the way...
2024-12-301h 22
The Unfolding Thought Podcast2–Jeremy Nulik – How Vision Shapes StrategyIn this episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Jeremy Nulik takes us on a journey from his childhood fascination with unseen systems to his work as a practitioner of strategic foresight. Jeremy explains how foresight helps leaders make deliberate, inspired decisions by uncovering hidden forces that influence behavior and strategy. He shares powerful insights into how creating and exploring images of the future can clarify priorities, embolden leadership, and align strategies with long-term visions.From meaningful childhood moments to immersive projects like Houston’s tricentennial celebration simulation, Jeremy illustrates how understanding the connection between the past, present, an...
2024-12-241h 02
The Unfolding Thought Podcast1–Better Decision-Making for Leaders Through MindfulnessIn this debut episode of The Unfolding Thought Podcast, Eric Pratum presents a recorded version of a session he typically presents in person. We dive into how mindfulness can transform the way leaders make decisions in today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world. Drawing on research from psychology and leadership studies, this episode explores how mindfulness helps us stay present, manage distractions, and make thoughtful, effective decisions.We’ll discuss the difference between mindlessness and mindfulness, the impact of emotional flooding on decision-making, and practical exercises to improve focus and clarity. Learn how leaders can use mindfulness to strengthen thei...
2024-12-2450 minThe Unfolding Thought PodcastTrailerThe Unfolding Thought Podcast is driven by a provocative question: why do we—and the groups we form—think and act the way we do? The problem is that we often assume we understand ourselves and others, confident in our beliefs about consciousness, motivation, and behavior. Yet, much of what shapes us—our thoughts, choices, and actions—remains hidden, misunderstood, or ignored.The truth is, we are influenced by deeper, unseen forces—patterns, biases, and contexts we rarely question. By uncovering these forces, we can better understand the motivations that drive us and the connections that shape our world...
2024-12-2401 min