Shows
Change ChampionsYour Niche Is Not a Limitation It’s Leverage | Ep 31When you first went solo, you probably thought it would mean more freedom. But somewhere along the way, “being your own boss” started to feel more like working harder for less — lurching from one big project to the next, stuck in that feast-and-famine cycle, and trying to be everything to everyone just to keep the pipeline alive.In this episode of Change Champions, Ped and Riley unpack what they call the freedom paradox: the belief that keeping your options open is what keeps you free, when in reality it’s often what keeps you stuck. D...
2025-11-2627 minChange ChampionsWhy No One Gets What You Do | Ep 30In this episode, Ped and Riley tackle the real reason so many great coaches and consultants struggle with marketing: it’s not a strategy problem, it’s a language problem. Through personal stories and client experiences, they unpack how to move from “invisible” to “understood” by seeing your business through your clients’ eyes. From mirror moments to “flashlight vs. headlight” marketing, they show why clarity and conversation always beat volume and vanity.
2025-11-1223 minChange ChampionsThe 5 Questions That Turn Conversations Into Clients | Ep 29In this episode, Ped and Riley tackle one of the biggest time-wasters for coaches and consultants — friendly conversations that never convert. They share the five simple yet powerful questions that transform casual chats into meaningful, client-building conversations. Through real examples and insights from their own experience, they show how to shift from “relationship building” to structured, intentional dialogue that deepens trust and drives business growth.
2025-10-2922 minChange ChampionsLearn to Sell and Never Be Stuck Again | Ep 28In this episode of Change Champions, Riley and Pedram take on one of the most misunderstood skills in business: sales. They dismantle the myths that keep coaches, consultants, and service professionals stuck—like the idea that sales is only for pushy extroverts or manipulative personalities. Instead, they reveal how sales, when reframed as service, becomes the key to confidence, control, and career freedom. With stories from their own journeys and practical shifts anyone can make, Ped and Riley show that learning to sell is less about slick pitches and more about creating real options in your work and life.
2025-10-1527 minChange ChampionsLearn to Sell and Never Be Stuck Again | Ep 28In this episode of Change Champions, Riley and Pedram take on one of the most misunderstood skills in business: sales. They dismantle the myths that keep coaches, consultants, and service professionals stuck—like the idea that sales is only for pushy extroverts or manipulative personalities. Instead, they reveal how sales, when reframed as service, becomes the key to confidence, control, and career freedom. With stories from their own journeys and practical shifts anyone can make, Ped and Riley show that learning to sell is less about slick pitches and more about creating real options in your work and life....
2025-10-0827 minChange ChampionsThe Lie That Keeps Coaches Broke | Ep 27Ped and Riley tackle the lie that keeps many coaches broke: thinking the fix is to work harder, shout louder, or charge less. They show how “curse of knowledge” and feature-heavy proposals create admiration without commitment, then walk through a four-part offer that clients can instantly say yes to. Ped shares how reframing a program from modules to outcomes turned a struggler into a premium offer without changing the actual delivery. You’ll leave with a simple structure to shape your brilliance into something clients understand—and buy.
2025-10-0121 minChange ChampionsThe Real Reason You Aren’t Getting More Clients | Ep 26Ped and Riley puncture the industry lie that the “perfect offer” attracts clients on its own. Ped shares how a six-month drought in 2019 humbled him into building a real pipeline instead of waiting on referrals. Riley walks through why common “fixes” (new branding, funnels, paid ads, mass outreach) either don’t fit most solo businesses or demand resources they don’t have—and offers a simpler path: have strategic conversations that surface real demand, then track it. The result is confidence, consistency, and control over your income.
2025-09-1718 minChange ChampionsTired of Discovery Calls That Go Nowhere? This Is Why | Ep 25In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley pull back the curtain on why even great offers often get ignored—and what to do about it. They unpack the silent conversion killer that causes discovery calls to go nowhere: a lack of relevance in your message. If your audience is still wondering, "Is this for me?"—you've already lost the sale. Using relatable stories, sharp metaphors, and their Big Five Framework, Ped and Riley show you how to make your messaging land with clarity, urgency, and emotional connection. You’ll learn how to answer the three unspoken questi...
2025-09-0318 minChange ChampionsReferrals Aren’t a Strategy — They’re a Lottery Ticket | Ep 24In this energizing episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley expose “the content trap” — the frustrating cycle of publishing value-packed posts that still fail to convert into paying clients. Drawing on Ped’s own months of “performing to an invisible audience” and Riley’s lighthouse metaphor, they explain why visibility alone isn’t enough. Instead, content should act as kindling that sparks authentic outreach, the real driver of trust and sales conversations. Listeners hear how one client’s responses jumped 6-7× once he paired posts with personal messages. The duo break down the trap, the mindset that feeds it, and the simple...
2025-08-2021 minChange ChampionsWhen Energy Isn’t Enough: How to Make Sessions That Get you rebooked | Ep 23In this episode of Change Champions, Ped and Riley unpack a painful but common experience for coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators: delivering a high-energy, well-received workshop… that doesn’t lead to more business. Ped shares a candid story of a dazzling session with a Big Five firm that never resulted in a callback—and why. Together, they explore the trap of relying on entertainment and engagement without designing for outcomes and ROI. You’ll learn the six core building blocks of any workshop that can turn your facilitation from “fun day out” into “strategic asset”—and get clients rebooking you again and agai...
2025-08-0631 minChange ChampionsWhy Passion Doesn’t Pay (And What Does) | Ep 22In this Change Champions episode, co-hosts Ped and Riley bust the “follow your passion and the clients will come” myth that keeps many coaches, consultants, trainers and facilitators stuck. Through Riley’s $63k leap that came from simply asking better questions and Ped’s hard-won lesson that more certifications don’t equal more sales, they show why enthusiasm alone is a megaphone that repels the middle-80 % of buyers. The duo lay out a mirror-first approach—listen before you pitch, translate expertise into specific, measurable outcomes and chase relevance, not generic visibility—so your offers practically sell themselves. Expect practical mindset flips...
2025-07-2326 minChange ChampionsI Fired My Boss… Then Accidentally Rehired Them as Me | Ep 21In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley unpack a hard truth that many self-employed coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators know all too well: you might have fired your boss, but somehow ended up working for an even worse one—yourself. Drawing from Ped’s eye-opening story of taking 3 a.m. client calls from a San Francisco basement, the duo explores how being “technically self-employed” often still means being overworked and under-leveraged. They discuss why staying stuck in freelancer mode keeps you trapped, and how shifting from “being the business” to building a business requires mindset shifts, asset creati...
2025-07-0925 minChange ChampionsWhy Smart Consultants Stay Stuck (hint: it’s not your skills) | Ep 20In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley dig into a counterintuitive truth: it’s not your skills that are keeping you stuck—it’s trying to do too much. They explore how “abundance thinking” can disguise a fear of commitment, leading smart coaches and consultants to stay broad, overwhelmed, and burned out. Through personal stories, client examples, and sharp metaphors (from closets to buffets), they show why narrowing your niche doesn’t limit you—it liberates you. If you're tired of doing everything for everyone and still not gaining traction, this episode is a must-listen.
2025-06-2524 minChange ChampionsSelling Without Sleaze: Why Connection Beats Conversion| Ep 19In Episode 19 of the Change Champions podcast, co-hosts Ped and Riley tackle a feeling familiar to many coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators: why does selling feel so gross—even when you're doing all the “right” things? Drawing from their own journeys and client stories (like Lori, who went from "doing fine" to fully booked two quarters ahead), they explore why traditional sales strategies often feel out of sync with purpose-driven professionals. The episode introduces the concept of “insider selling”—a trust-first approach that replaces pitch-slapping with genuine, value-led conversations. You’ll learn how to stop guessing what your market wants, avoid t...
2025-06-1118 minChange ChampionsWhy Clients Say Yes... Then Ghost You | Ep 18In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley dive deep into the critical but often overlooked moment between a client’s verbal “yes” and the actual payment — the gap where too many deals quietly fall apart. Drawing from Ped’s hard-won lessons as a learning and development consultant and Riley’s expertise as a COO and systems builder, they unpack why the problem isn’t in your sales call but in your onboarding process. They share personal stories, client mishaps, and actionable strategies to help coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators close that gap with clarity, confidence, and systems that s...
2025-06-0420 minChange ChampionsThe Hidden Reason Your Referrals Stopped Rolling In | Ep 17In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley pull back the curtain on a quiet crisis facing many experienced coaches and consultants. The moment when referrals dry up, and the usual tactics stop working. They unpack why relying on your old network can keep you stuck, how the “Curse of Knowledge” sabotages your messaging, and why real conversations—not funnels—are the key to building a high-ticket offer that practically sells itself. If you’ve ever felt like your expertise isn’t translating into consistent sales, this episode will help you reframe your next move and reignite momentum.
2025-05-2820 minChange ChampionsWant More Clients? Start Conversations, Not Campaigns I Ep 16In this inaugural reformat of the Change Champions podcast, co-hosts Ped and Riley dive deep into a conversation that every coach and consultant needs to hear: how to sell without feeling salesy. If you’ve ever hit "publish" on a post and crossed your fingers for leads—or avoided outreach because it felt awkward—this episode is your permission slip to rethink everything. Ped and Riley unpack why traditional outreach feels gross, what to do instead, and how a mindset of service (not sales) leads to real opportunities. Plus, they share behind-the-scenes stories from their own journeys and client wins t...
2025-05-2132 minChange Champions“I Just Want to Help People” — Why That’s Not Enough to Grow Your Coaching Business with Anne Shields | Ep 15In this episode of Change Champions, we sit down with Anne Shields, a liberal arts life design coach who specializes in helping the “lost and confused” find meaningful direction. With a background in higher education and years of experience training coaches, Anne brings a unique perspective on what it really takes to build a sustainable coaching business—especially for those who resist the traditional marketing playbook. Together with co-hosts Riley and Ped, Anne unpacks the tension between pure coaching, mentoring, and business-building, offering grounded insights on niching, visibility, and why saying “I just want to help people” isn’t enough to su...
2025-05-1447 minChange Champions💪 Building a Coaching Business That Feels Easy (Even When It’s Hard) with Erika Fay | Ep 14In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the often-overlooked mindset shifts that are crucial for coaches and consultants to build a thriving business. Our guest, Erika Fay, an Elite Athlete Fulfillment Coach, shares her journey from therapist to entrepreneur, revealing the internal battles she faced along the way. Erika unpacks how overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing micro-moments of success, and building intentional daily practices transformed her ability to maintain a steady stream of clients. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt or feeling overwhelmed by your business journey, Erika’s insights offer practical steps to build calm confidence and lasting su...
2025-05-0753 minChange ChampionsStop Reacting, Start Responding: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything with Andy Conigliario | Ep 13In this episode of Change Champions, we sit down with executive leadership coach and strategist Andy Conigliario to explore what it really means to live and lead on purpose. Andy shares his powerful story of walking away from a high-paying executive role—not to chase another title, but to rediscover meaning, health, and fulfillment. From the pivotal moment that forced him to question his definition of success, to the quiet clarity that emerged in the aftermath, Andy reveals how discomfort, failure, and deep self-awareness became the building blocks of a purpose-driven coaching practice. Whether you're standing at your own ca...
2025-04-2353 minChange ChampionsThe Secret to Finding Clients Who Actually Want Coaching with Amanda Deitsch | Ep 12n this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the world of transformational coaching—going beyond surface-level problem-solving to uncover the deeper shifts that lead to real change. Our guest, Amanda Deitch, is a transformational coach and facilitator who helps individuals align their values, actions, and mindset for greater clarity and success. With a rich background spanning entrepreneurship, art, and meditation, Amanda shares how true coaching isn’t about offering quick fixes but about creating the space for self-discovery and lasting transformation. We also explore the business side of coaching, discussing the importance of mindset, mentorship, and choosing the righ...
2025-04-0957 minChange ChampionsConfidence, Communication, and Gravitas: Building Blocks of Leadership with Peter McKenzie | Ep 11In this episode of Change Champions, we’re joined by Peter McKenzie, an executive coach and strategist with over two decades of experience in corporate leadership. Peter shares his journey from navigating the challenges of the C-suite to building a successful coaching business alongside his full-time role. We dive into his signature framework for developing executive presence, exploring the three pillars of confidence, communication, and gravitas. Peter also reveals how he helps leaders unlock their full potential, overcome burnout, and create lasting impact. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or leader looking to scale your influence and income, this epis...
2025-03-2653 minChange ChampionsThe Secret to Sustainable Success: Agility and Self-Honesty with Cathy Dixon Pt 2 | Ep 10In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the reality of building a thriving coaching or consulting business—beyond just mastering your craft. Many passionate professionals struggle with the business side of things, from client acquisition to financial sustainability. Our guest, Cathy Dixon, a Business Growth & Mindset Coach, shares powerful insights on balancing passion with profit, understanding your unique value, and staying agile in an ever-changing market. Cathy brings decades of experience helping service-based entrepreneurs build businesses that align with their values while maintaining financial stability and personal well-being. If you’ve ever felt stuck between chasing your pass...
2025-03-1245 minChange ChampionsBeyond the Titles: How Authenticity Builds Coaching Confidence with Iris Zimmermann | Ep 9In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the art and science of coaching with high-performance transformation coach Iris Zimmermann. As an Olympic fencer, Stanford graduate, and former corporate leader, Iris brings a unique perspective to helping others unlock their potential. She shares her journey from following rigid coaching frameworks to embracing storytelling and authenticity as powerful tools for connection. Iris explores the challenges of guiding clients through discomfort, balancing empathy with accountability, and breaking free from the trap of endless credentialing. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or leader, this conversation will inspire you to bet on yourself...
2025-02-2655 minChange ChampionsSustainability Over Hustle: Why Recovery is a Key to Success with Cathy Dixon Pt 1 | Ep 8In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the art of sustainable personal and professional growth with transformative executive leadership coach Cathy Dixon. With over 420 coaching sessions under her belt, Cathy brings a wealth of experience in helping CEOs, founders, and senior leaders strengthen their leadership presence, craft compelling narratives, and foster thriving organizational cultures. Together, we explore the power of self-awareness, the importance of creating supportive environments, and the role of reflective practices like journaling in achieving meaningful change. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or leader seeking to scale your impact, this episode is packed with insights...
2025-02-121h 05Change ChampionsBeyond the Grind: Building a Life You Love Without Losing Yourself with Sherrilene Classen | Ep 7In this episode of Change Champions, we dive deep into the art of living a values-driven life with transformational coach and educator, Sherrilene Classen. A professor and department chair at the University of Florida, Sherrilene is also a certified coach, fitness instructor, and advocate for women's empowerment.
With a passion for aligning priorities with purpose, she shares her journey of balancing multiple roles while staying true to her core values. From embracing pain as a catalyst for growth to creating intentional habits that drive focus and fulfillment, Sherrilene offers inspiring insights and practical strategies for coaches and...
2025-01-2934 minChange ChampionsFrom Burnout to Breakthrough: Embracing Purpose in Leadership with Alison Conigliaro-Hubbard | Ep6In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into a powerful conversation with transformative leadership coach, Alison Conigliaro-Hubbard. After a 26-year career in global corporate tech, Alison faced a life-altering health crisis that reshaped her perspective and led her to redefine success on her own terms. She now helps high-performing professionals align their personal values with their professional ambitions, empowering them to break through limitations and lead with authenticity. From navigating personal transformation to building her innovative "Take the Reins" leadership program, Alison shares profound insights on self-discovery, growth, and the art of impactful leadership. Whether you're seeking inspiration...
2025-01-1556 minChange ChampionsFrom Overwhelmed to Aligned: The Career Reset You Need with Alyssa Smith | Ep5In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the journey of aligning career ambitions with personal values to create a fulfilling, intentional life. Our guest, Alyssa Smith, is a Holistic Life and Career Coach who specializes in helping high-achieving women navigate career crossroads with clarity and confidence. Drawing from her own transformative experiences—spanning 17 years in education and an international move—Alyssa shares powerful insights on overcoming the pressure to "do it all" and instead focusing on alignment, self-awareness, and intentional growth. Whether you're looking to pivot, advance, or redefine success on your own terms, this conversation is pack...
2025-01-0154 minChange ChampionsThe Conscious Consultant: From Consultant to Conscious Leader with Sam Liebowitz | Ep 4In this episode of Change Champions, host Riley McGhee welcomes Sam Liebowitz, also known as The Conscious Consultant. With over 30 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, coaching, and spiritual exploration, Sam shares his transformative journey from traditional consulting to a holistic practice rooted in authenticity and intentionality. Together, they explore how defining success on your own terms, embracing uncertainty, and focusing on self-awareness can unlock profound personal and professional growth. Whether you're a coach or consultant seeking to scale your impact or simply someone navigating life's transitions, Sam's wisdom offers a refreshing perspective on aligning your business with your deeper...
2024-12-1852 minChange ChampionsFear is Not the Enemy: How to Thrive in Uncertainty with Dr. Benjamin Ritter | Ep3In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the transformative power of self-leadership and overcoming fear with Dr. Benjamin Ritter, a career development and organizational leadership expert. Dr. Ritter, author of Becoming Fearless, shares his personal journey from facing repeated professional setbacks to building a thriving career aligned with his values. He unpacks the critical role fear plays in holding us back and offers practical strategies to reframe it as a tool for growth. Whether you're a coach or consultant looking to scale your impact or simply seeking more fulfillment in your career, this conversation will inspire you...
2024-11-2747 minChange ChampionsBuilding a Creative Life: Why Real Change Creeps Up on You with Pia Mailhot-Leichter | Ep 2In this episode of Change Champions, we dive deep into the art of transformation with Pia Mailhot-Leichter, a seasoned creative coach, award-winning creative director, and author of Welcome to the Creative Club. Pia specializes in helping visionary entrepreneurs—whom she calls “inspired misfits”—bring their boldest ideas to life through a blend of creative strategy and personal growth. Together, we explore the importance of trust, courageous exploration, and reframing beliefs to navigate uncertainty and foster meaningful change. Whether you're looking to unlock your creative potential or scale your impact as a coach or consultant, this episode is packed with actionab...
2024-11-201h 19Change ChampionsStorytelling Expert: Turn Your Past into Profits with Mark Leruste | Ep 1In this episode of Change Champions, we dive deep into the transformative power of storytelling with Mark Leruste, award-winning author of Glow in the Dark and founder of StoryCast. Mark shares his journey from struggling with self-doubt and perfectionism to becoming a globally recognized speaker and storyteller. He reveals why vulnerability is the key to building trust, how sharing your story can transform your business, and why slowing down is essential for sustainable growth. Whether you're a coach or consultant looking to scale your impact or simply seeking ways to connect more authentically, this conversation will inspire you to...
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