Top Voice Podcast with Michael J. López

Michael welcomes strategic communications advisor Christie Bilbrey, founder of Stella Nova Media, to discuss why many professionals sound the same and how to stand out through clearer positioning and storytelling. Christie explains that credentials alone don't differentiate; what people hire is perspective and relatability rooted in understanding an audience's pain points and desired out...

Michael speaks with executive coach and LinkedIn Top Voice Frida Thomas about becoming irreplaceable by understanding “risk vs. moat” in today’s AI-driven workplace. Frida shares her background coaching senior leaders and explains how quickly career strategy is changing, urging professionals to replace fear with curiosity and keep a constant pulse on trends. She describes how to identify a persona...

Michael welcomes Doug Kimball to discuss Doug’s new book, “So What, Why, Who Cares?”, a three-question framework Doug has used for 14+ years to improve messaging, positioning, storytelling, and strategic thinking. Doug shares how the framework originated from a tough critique by a former boss, how it helps teams move beyond clever but ineffective marketing, and why simple questions can be hard to...

Michael speaks with John Harrison, co-founder of Luminar Global, an AI firm focused on “enabling trust with AI,” about how AI is shifting transformation from big-company, big-budget initiatives to individual and small-team impact. Harrison shares his background across IBM, telecom, edtech, and communications consulting, and explains why AI can create rapid new wealth but also faster displacement....

In this Top Voice Podcast episode, Dr. Joey Munoz, a PhD in nutritional sciences, shares how he helps people improve body composition and health markers through sustainable habit formation, education, and accountability rather than fad diets and “sexy” quick fixes. He recounts his early struggles with body image, restrictive dieting, and confusing fitness messaging, and explains how formal trainin...

Michael interviews Phil Ledgerwood, co-owner of Integrity Inspired Solutions, about facing the existential threat AI and “vibe coding” pose to software careers and businesses. Phil describes how market perception and hype can be as disruptive as the technology itself, citing recent AI news, layoffs, and viral narratives that widen the gap between expectations and real capabilities. He argues most...

Michael speaks with Rakshit Kharbanda about creating a non-linear life and career through repeated international moves and calculated risk-taking. Rakshit shares his background from New Delhi, completing a bachelor’s in technology (through 2022) and moving to Paris for a master’s in management at ESSEC Business School, then living across four countries (India, France, Germany, and Canada) for inte...

This episode of the Top Voice Podcast features Sharita Humphrey discussing her “unexpected CEO” journey from government auditor and analyst to entrepreneur and CEO. Humphrey shares that she initially had no desire to start a business, but felt a persistent tug to serve rural communities and prepared for the leap by saving two years of salary, setting aside funds for bills, and learning from auditi...

Join us for a fascinating episode of the Top Voice Podcast as we explore the AI market dynamics in 2025 with Jason Saltzman from CB Insights. Jason shares unique insights on the ecosystem of players, investments, and funding in the AI landscape. We dive into the record-setting year for private company equity funding, driven largely by the big players like OpenAI, Anthropic, and xAI. Discover the g...

In this episode of the Top Voice Podcast, we welcome Vinicius David to discuss AI adoption for small and medium businesses. Vinicius, an expert with 20 years in tech, shares her journey and provides actionable advice on AI implementation. Learn about the differences between AI use in large enterprises vs. SMBs, the importance of data, and practical steps to get started with AI. If you're a bu...

Join us on this episode of the Top Voice Podcast as we dive deep into the world of AI and cybersecurity with industry expert Matthew Rosenquist. With 36 years of experience in cybersecurity, Matthew discusses the growing implications of AI on cybersecurity, the capabilities of AI tools in the hands of both attackers and defenders, and the evolving threats in the digital landscape. Learn about the...

Join us for an engaging episode of the Top Voice Podcast as we delve into the world of independent consulting with expert Mike Koziol. Mike shares his journey from being a lawyer and fraud investigator to becoming a consultant's consultant. We discuss the challenges many independent consultants face in scaling their business, including breaking through revenue ceilings, productizing services,...

Join us for an insightful episode of the Top Voice Podcast as we explore the evolving landscape of job searching in 2026 with career leadership coach Valerie Martinelli. Discover how the job market has shifted since post-COVID, the importance of proactive career management, and the role of personal branding and networking in a competitive environment. Valerie shares valuable advice on standing out...

In this episode of the Top Voice Podcast, we welcome Brian Solis, the global head of innovation at ServiceNow and author of 'Mindshift.' Kicking off 2026, we delve into the essence of innovation, the impact of AI on business, and the importance of keeping an open mind. Brian shares his extensive experience as a digital analyst, futurist, and anthropologist, discussing how technology resh...

Join us on this insightful episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we sit down with Tiffany Yu, a disability advocate, author, and founder. Tiffany shares her journey from working in financial services to becoming a prominent voice in disability advocacy. We discuss the importance of seeing disability differently and the ways in which organizations can better support disabled individuals. Tiffany also she...

In this enlightening episode of Top Voice Tuesday, host Michael sits down with serial entrepreneur Raj Khera to discuss 'Courage and the Power of Yes.' Raj shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a successful entrepreneur with multiple startups. He discusses the importance of overcoming fear, taking initiative, and the impact of saying 'yes' to opportunities. Raj...

Join us for an inspiring episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we explore the balance between professionalism and authenticity online with fractional CMO David LaCombe. David delves into his unique journey from paramedic to marketing expert, offering insights on how to show up genuinely on LinkedIn and other platforms. Discover the transferable skills from his EMS background that shape his approach to b...

Join us for an insightful episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we dive deep into the world of ethical AI with expert Lucas Erb. We explore AI's impact on the future of work, human relationships, and social connections. Lucas shares his journey from HP to founding his startup, discusses the concept of ethical AI, and the importance of human-centric design choices. We also tackle the pressing issues...

Join us for an inspiring episode of Top Voice Tuesday featuring Marcus Chan, the founder of Venli Consulting. We discuss his journey from a struggling sales rep to a LinkedIn Top Voice and a successful business owner. Marcus shares his insights on the difference between transactional and transformational leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, coaching, and development. We also e...

Join us for an insightful episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we dive into the contemporary debate of reshoring manufacturing jobs to America with Joe Strangel. Joe, a university professor and former plant manager, shares his journey from manufacturing to academia and thought leadership. We discuss the challenges facing US manufacturing, including talent acquisition and the misperceptions of modern ma...

Join us for a fascinating episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we dive into the world of AI-powered products with expert Tim Dickey. We discuss the impact of AI on everyday life, the pitfalls in AI product development, and the nuanced differences between genuine AI advancements and hype. Tim shares his unique insights on generative AI, the role of AI in improving lives, and the future of AI-powered inn...

Join us for an exciting episode of Top Voice Tuesday as Michael sits down with Dominic to explore the concept of 'Conversations with My Former Self.' Both hailing from the Big Four consulting world, Michael shares invaluable advice he wished he had at a similar point in his career, as Dominic embarks on his solo consulting journey. They discuss key strategies for making career transition...

Join us for an insightful episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we discuss the future of the economy and financial planning with expert Andy Wang. We explore the impact of current economic challenges like inflation, practical budgeting tips, and strategies for different age groups to secure their financial future. Andy also shares his journey in the family business and offers valuable advice on aligning...

Join us for an engaging episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we explore the concept of the corporate entrepreneur with Feras Asakrieh. Feras shares his dual career journey, balancing a corporate role with entrepreneurial ventures, and provides insights on the mindset required to succeed in both worlds. We discuss the importance of branding, influential leadership, and taking risks within a corporate se...

Join us for an insightful episode of Top Voice Tuesday as we chat with Lorraine Lee, author of 'Unforgettable Presence'. Discover the motivations behind Lorraine's book, how it helps professionals in today's hybrid work environment, and tips on cultivating a strong presence. Lorraine shares her journey, strategies for enhancing your LinkedIn presence, and the importance of feed...