Teetering between bursts of excitement of possibilities and the results gap that imparts doubt in ones pursuit, describes the day in the life of an entrepreneur. The creative knows no boundaries, but with societal norms, doubt becomes the nemeses to infinite possibilities. I’m sharing this mindset with you now because this is my life now. For my associates and followers, they may wonder why I feel this way as I appear to have it all together. To my close associates, guides and mentors, you know the backstage turmoil that goes into showing up day after day being the voice of positivity and possibilities.

The truth is all I can control is the outward persona that I want to impart onto the world. I know that if I am persistent and positive, I might inspire others to keep their chin up and know there are better days ahead. However, I can’t help but feel I’ve not been fully transparent with my audience and hence I give a false sense of success to you and for that I am sorry.

What is true however, is I wake up everyday with an abundant mindset, sprinkled with a bit of doubt; but may be it’s discomfort with not knowing what will happen. I have a coach; well maybe three and a mentor to boot to help me through this mindset challenge. Yes, I am positive about every bit of content I put out there each day and I know I’m helping some people; but how many evades me. It is blind faith I go out each day to post something that hopefully inspires; not knowing if anyone out there cares.

The joy comes when I casually meet with you or receive a comment that says ‘Deb, I’ve been watching your content and this is what I liked’. This is joy to my ears and gives me pause to realize I am making an impact. With some proper coaching (and a few tears), I have to be happy with just that. It’s what makes us as entrepreneurs a special breed; trying to make an impact on the world and forever being in pursuit of more.

My coaching is helping me to be just fine with the present. In order to help my mindset shift, I do have one ask of you. If you’ve gotten to this point in my post and have a few moments; I would love some feedback; what to continue, what to start and / or what should I change. But more importantly, has my work had any impact on you and if so, how. Your feedback is immensely helpful and I will seek to help you in anyway I can.

There, I’ve put it out there that this journey is about the mindset shifts and turns in pursuit of having greater impact. The conundrum that I have to realize is the journey is now and not the end game, but how I impact you and others now. Now is all we have and to celebrate each moment we have an opportunity to impart insights and positivity as we navigate our complex lives.

Many thanks for your time and again, if you have any feedback on my work and the impact you have felt, I am most grateful to you.

Until we meet, be well!

-Deb

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

The words we use when engaging with leadership or our teams is more important than the content we are sharing. I know it doesn’t make sense based on our training, but the reality is we are humans that require an emotional connection to another human in order to be influenced. Given that logic, the words we use to evoke an emotion is critical.

The outcome of not having the right vocabulary is helplessness, feeling dismissed, and not being respected; leading to frustration. I don’t want you to struggle because I care about you feeling satisfied with your technical genius and how you can influence others.

In this webinar Powerful Words for Influence Presentation, I share my most critical words and phrases you can use to have a greater impact. I find each time I coach an aspiring C-Suite leader or someone in the C-Suite, they’ve never been trained and it’s a tremendous gap in their sphere of influence.

One of my most powerful insights is to remove the “n’t” from your vocabulary. When we show what we are “Not”, people see our shortcomings. When we replace with words such as: “We should”, “We Must”, “We need”, “I propose”, “Based on the past, we could move forward in this direction”. These are all positive, actionable and shows confidence in the future; knowing the team will figure out “How”.

Every time I share this insight with people I coach, it’s a game changer and it could be for you as well.

I’m sharing my insights with you for free because I care about your success and they include:

• Mindset
• Influential Messaging
• Feedback

Please find the video from this powerful presentation

If you want to learn more and perhaps accept an offer to coach you on these powerful words, head over to my website and let’s have a short conversation.

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, often forgetting the profound impact we can have on one another. In my Weekly Live Talk Media Episode, I explored the theme of leaving a lasting impact through meaningful connections and storytelling. Here are some reflections and insights from that discussion.

Here is a short video from that episode:

The Power of Connection

Every interaction we have is an opportunity to connect with another human being. Whether you’re a CEO, a consultant, or a homemaker, the essence of our existence lies in how we relate to others. I believe that when we genuinely connect with people, magic happens. It’s not just about the outcomes or results; it’s about pursuing peace of mind and enjoying the human element of our interactions.

Stories That Inspire

During the episode, I shared three powerful stories from my podcast interviews that exemplify how individuals are making a difference in their communities:

1. A CEO and COO’s Commitment to Community: I had the privilege of interviewing a CEO and COO who are deeply committed to giving back to their community. Their passion for environmental sustainability and social responsibility moved me to tears. It reminded me that while many focus on profit, there are leaders who prioritize purpose and impact.
2. A Thought Leader’s Journey: Another inspiring conversation was with a leadership consultant who, despite not having the traditional corporate background, has become a respected thought leader. His journey highlights that learning and curiosity can lead to significant achievements, regardless of one’s starting point.
3. Trust and Vulnerability: I also spoke with a well-known figure who initially hesitated to share his story due to past experiences. However, through our conversation, he found the trust to open up, and in doing so, he recognized the value of his own narrative. This exchange not only impacted him but also enriched my understanding of the importance of vulnerability in storytelling.

Reflecting on Your Impact

As you navigate your daily life, I encourage you to reflect on the connections you make. Are you present in your conversations? Do you take the time to acknowledge the contributions of those around you? A simple “thank you” or recognition of someone’s efforts can change the trajectory of their day, or even their life.

One last thought…

Leaving a lasting impact is not about grand gestures; it’s about the small, meaningful interactions we have every day. By being present and genuinely listening to others, we can shine a light on their gifts and stories.

How are you connecting with humanity?

If you’d like to hear more about these stories and insights, I invite you to listen to the full podcast episode.

If you’re ready to follow more of my work, I invite you to subscribe to my mailing list for ~ weekly insights and inspiration.

If you just need a listening partner or a few minutes of insights, I’d love to talk to you!

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

Yesterday I posted short video on trends I’m seeing in leadership; centered around the loneliness and lack of support. C-Suite Leaders know they’re talented, but are faced with new challenges when the landscape changes and they start to lose their edge. Same goes for that ascending leader seeking greater impact and influence; they feel like they’re losing control and grasping at straws to regain their “rockstar” status. It’s painful to watch talent lose their confidence and leadership potential.

“I just want to partner with you, just to whisper in your ear, but also listen deeply to what your concerns are because I know you are capable of doing amazing things.”

In my video this week, I share highlights of what I’m seeing and how I might be able to help you through these challenges. (click on the image or link for the full episode)

Supporting CEOs and emerging leaders in navigating challenges and finding their calm amidst the storm is what I do. Whether you’re a current C-suite executive facing unexpected obstacles or an aspiring leader seeking guidance, I’m here to provide the support you need. Please take a moment to here my insight in this short clip from this episode:

Captions are auto generatedPlayThe Importance of Support Systems for C-Suite Leaders

Here are some actionable tips you can do now to unleash your potential:

1. Articulate Your Value:

– Reflect on your past achievements and learn to express your skills and resilience effectively. Avoid self-doubt by recognizing your capabilities.

2. Seek Support:

– Connect with mentors or coaches who can provide guidance and perspective. Having someone to talk to can help you navigate challenges more effectively.

3. Mindset Shift:

– Change your mindset to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Embrace the idea that you can handle new roles and responsibilities.

4. Practice Communication:

– Rehearse how to present your skills and experiences. This will help you feel more confident when discussing your qualifications for new roles.

5. Focus on What Matters:

– Identify the activities that truly matter to you and prioritize them. This will help you manage your time better and reduce stress.

6. Engage with Your Community:

– Participate in networking opportunities and community events. Building relationships can provide support and open doors for new opportunities.

7. Stay Informed:

– Keep up with industry trends and insights. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and position yourself as a thought leader.

8. Take Small Steps:

– Set achievable goals for yourself, whether in your current role or in pursuing new opportunities. Celebrate small wins to build confidence.

If these make sense, but you’d really like a listening partner, coach or a CEO Whisperer, think about who can provide that support. It doesn’t have to be me, but I’d love to be there for you.

Until next time we connect here or elsewhere, I wish you well and amazing success!

-Deb

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

Kudos to you for having been elevated to the C-Suite role. You’ve been ready for this moment for a long time… or are you?

I know it’s an exciting time, but also one of uncertainty. You accept the challenge and pull out your playbook only to find you have to put on the breaks because it’s not as you expected. You’re smart and you’ll figure out what is different, but then I ask you; who do you talk to? Do you have a board of advisors? Do you have a coach? Do you have a trusted colleague within or outside the organization? Or do you have a “CEO Whisperer” just to talk through the challenges and opportunities? Do you just need someone to bounce ideas around, develop a strategy to ground you and the team or help you to see the landscape from a different perspective.

All of these questions and many more are what I call the “CEO Whisperer” framework to help you get started on the right foot or help you if you’re in the throws of chaos. I’ll lay it out for you so you understand what this means:

The “CEO Whisperer” Framework

1. Self awareness – it starts with you knowing you need an external perspective
2. Courage to ask for help – asking for help is a source of strength and gaining wisdom
3. Strength inventory – be ready to qualify your gifts and how you will leverage them going forward
4. Gap analysis – qualify what you think the gaps are in being able to navigate your challenges
5. Open minded – be ready for an external view that may give you new insights you could not see or consider
6. Contact your “CEO Whisperer” – pick up the phone right now and ask them for help and their insights.

The last step is the hardest because you know you need help, but don’t have the courage to ask for help. If you are ready to ask for help, do you know who to call?

I’ll give you a hint: Deb Coviello aka The Drop In CEO aka the “CEO Whisperer”!

Let’s have a short conversation.

Until then, I want to wish you well and much success!

-Deb

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

And so I ask you why are there so many fire fighters in positions of leadership? They get results quickly, but what are they doing to the organization? They leave a trail of casualties in their path for which no one notices except the rank and file. And then organizations wonder why there is burnout and turnover. Anyone? Anyone?

Might I propose we develop a different set of competencies for our senior leaders that include:

• Discipline
• Clarity
• Mentorship
• Strategic Thinking
• Deep Listening
• Sound Decision Logic
• Patience
• Visionary

I find so many job descriptions miss critical competencies and if they exist, there is a lack of accountability because leadership teams are a bit shortsighted and reward quick results. I’m not saying we don’t need to move quickly in the face of opportunity or crisis, but a different kind of leader is needed. Do you agree?

I love working with Disciplined leaders that think proactively and with strategic vision. It is so much easier to lead others through times of calm vs. chaos. For them, they also have happier employees that stay and remember your leadership; leaving your legacy.

I’m so passionate about being the CEO Whisperer or your Compass, that I’d like to share a sample of my audio book, The CEO’s Compass. DM me on Linkedin and I’ll share it with you as my gift. If you like the sample, feel free to order the full book for your listening pleasure!

I hope to meet more disciplined leaders because I know the work we can do together whether casual conversation, networking or sharing a bit of value will be highly impactful.

Until then, be well-Deb

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

When The CEO’s Compass was released in 2021, so many people asked if they could download the audiobook. To my embarrassment, I said no and it was only available via hard copy or kindle. I lost a huge audience by not listening to the voice of my customer. With a bold ambition of reaching more people and a kick in the a$% from my husband, I recorded and have now released the audiobook. However, there is more to the story…

For years my voice was silenced by others who did not want to hear it or myself because I was not confident in what I had to say. Now finding my voice and never going small again, I know many of you out there have lost your voice. Think about it; how many times did you speak up as a child, in school and in business and your voice was not celebrated. You then assume the narrative that what you have to say does not have value. I am so sad when I see talented people such as yourself holding yourself back.

What do you believe in?

What is your secret sauce?

What makes you unique?

What huge problems have you solved?

What do you do better than anyone else?

If these questions are relevant to you, you need to find your voice and be heard. I can help with that. People often ask if I’m a coach and I often say no because I want to solve big business problems for C-Suite leaders. However, so many of you come to me asking how did I transition from corporate compliant work to the creative pursuits of building a brand and business. For that, I am compelled to help you and the first step is to help you find your voice.

I offer a 15 short conversation and if you like my approach, we can move forward together as a business relationship and help you to have a voice and make a huge impact.

If you would like to hear my voice and the insights from The CEO’s Compass, we’re still distributing, but you can find it on several outlets below. I would be grateful and if you like it, please share with others.

Until we meet to help you find your voice, I wish you well and much success.

-Deb

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3WsHLGn

Audible: https://adbl.co/40tOD7U

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details/Deborah_Coviello_The_CEO_s_Compass?id=AQAAAEAK5HakbM

Kobo, Walmart: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/ceo-s-compass-the

NOOK Audiobooks: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-ceos-compass-deborah-coviello/1140033367

Storytel: https://www.storytel.com/se/sv/books/the-ceos-compass-your-guide-to-get-back-on-track-10346161

Audiobooks.com: https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/ceos-compass-your-guide-to-get-back-on-track/865844

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.

As we step into 2025, it’s essential for leaders to take a moment to reflect on the past year while strategically planning for the future. In a recent episode of Live Talk Media, Deb Coviello shared valuable insights into the importance of reflection, continuous improvement, and proactive planning, especially for C-suite leaders. Here are some key takeaways that can guide you and your organization as we embrace the new year. You can watch the full Weekly Live Talk Media on YouTube here.

Embrace Reflection

Reflecting on our past experiences can serve as a powerful tool for growth. Deb emphasizes the importance of pausing to consider what went well in the previous year and what challenges we faced. This reflective practice allows leaders to appreciate their accomplishments while learning from any setbacks.

Key Points to Consider:

• What were your significant achievements in 2024?
• Which challenges tested your resolve, and what can you learn from them?
• How can these reflections shape your goals for the upcoming year?

Understand Crisis Management

Deb introduced her crisis management framework, which can be a vital tool for leaders navigating their organizations through varying degrees of stability. Most leaders find themselves operating in a chaotic or crisis state, striving to regain control. Understanding where you fall on this scale can help dictate your actions moving forward.

Crisis Level Breakdown:

• Level 5: Crisis – Losing customers and market share, causing high stress within the organization.
• Level 4: Chaos – While not losing market share, the environment is unsustainable.
• Level 3: Control – Operations are running smoothly, but growth opportunities exist.
• Level 2: Continuous Improvement – A sustainable mindset that fosters innovation.
• Level 1: Competitive Advantage – Leaders become sought-after partners in their field.

Partnering for Success

Deb highlighted two essential client partnerships aimed at proactive planning rather than reactive management. One client is focusing on evolving leadership maturity, while another is entering a growth phase requiring structured strategies to maintain their organizational culture.

As a leader, consider how you can partner with your team or external consultants to foster growth:

• Identify areas of your organization that require improvement or restructuring.
• Engage with those who can guide you through this evolution, ensuring a sustainable and healthy culture.

Strategic Planning for Growth

An effective leader knows that focusing solely on day-to-day operations is not enough. Deb urges leaders to create a strategic plan that aligns short-term goals with long-term growth. This includes crafting robust systems and processes that can adapt alongside the organization as market dynamics shift.

Strategies to Implement:

• Develop a clear vision for where you want your organization to be in the next few years.
• Create an actionable plan breaks down this vision into attainable goals.
• Regularly revisit and adjust your strategy based on current market conditions and internal capabilities.

Avoiding a Scarcity Mentality

Finally, Deb cautions against adopting a scarcity mindset. To lead effectively, it’s crucial to focus on opportunities rather than obstacles. Encouraging a culture of adaptability and innovation can propel your organization forward, even during challenging times.

Final Thoughts: As we dive into 2025, let us embrace a proactive approach to leadership. Reflect on past experiences, understand your organization’s current state, engage in strategic planning, and maintain a forward-thinking mindset. With these principles in mind, leaders can confidently navigate the complexities of the business landscape, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of collaboration, innovation, and success. If you’re ready to discuss how to elevate your leadership approach, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s partner in navigating the exciting possibilities that await us!

Known as The Drop In CEO™, Deb’s superpower is lowering the temperature and elevating conversations with empathy and patience. As a speaker, author, podcaster, and consultant, she teaches C-Suite leaders how to establish a “Lift, Light, Lead” environment and create calm amidst chaos or crisis. She is the author of “The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track,” and, “The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.” Her long-running podcast, The Drop-In CEO, is in the top 1.5% globally among Apple podcasts.