Breakfast Leadership Show

Improving Healthcare Access and Quality Dr. Julie Wilson, a family physician in British Columbia, joined Michael to discuss her work in transforming healthcare workplaces. Her organization now manages 20 clinics and supports more than 100 healthcare providers across the province. Julie shared her motivation to expand access and improve the quality of care, especially as BC faces the dual challenge...

Real Estate Syndication Investment Overview Michael and Stewart explored the world of real estate syndication and why it has become a practical alternative to traditional property ownership. They explained how 25 to 50 investors can pool their capital to purchase larger properties, giving individuals access to substantial real estate deals without managing the property themselves. Stewart pointed...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alexandra Gajer, a board certified physician who made a courageous shift from emergency medicine to the world of performance health optimization. Dr. Gajer shared how she reached a point of burnout even though she loved her work in the ER. Her story highlights a powerful truth that many high performers overlook. Loving your career does not make you immune to bu...

In this conversation, career ownership coach Maja Taylor shares powerful insights on what it truly means to take control of your professional future. She talks about helping leaders and professionals explore new career paths, including entrepreneurship, so they can maximize their potential and build careers that fully align with their goals and values. Maja encourages listeners to regularly review...

In this engaging conversation, Michael sits down with Colin MB Cooper to explore the intersection of human behavior, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. Colin shares how his lifelong curiosity for technology began at age 13 when he disassembled his father’s computer, sparking a passion that now informs his work blending neuroscience and AI. Together, they reflect on decades of rapid technol...

8 Ways to Reduce Stress in the Workplace Episode Summary Workplace stress steals joy, drains productivity, and harms overall well being. In this episode, we break down eight practical strategies employees and leaders can use to reduce stress, rebuild clarity, and create healthier work environments. If left unchecked, stress can impact performance, morale, and mental health, but the right habits an...

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Marcotte — a seasoned retail and customer experience leader who has shaped some of the world’s most iconic brands. We explore what it really takes to build, scale, and transform organizations through culture, leadership, and a relentless focus on the customer. Matt shares insights from decades of navigating high-pressure environments, leading teams through dis...

The Power of Purpose and People with Stephen Dwyer In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Dwyer, Incoming CEO (January 2026) of the American Staffing Association (ASA), to explore the intersection of purpose, leadership, and the future of work. From his early ambitions of becoming a lawyer to leading one of the most influential organizations in the staffing industry, Stephen shares the pivotal m...

Overview: In this episode, we unpack key takeaways from Workplace Culture, a resource designed for startup founders, early-stage leaders, and forward-thinking HR professionals who recognize that scaling rapidly without a solid cultural foundation is a recipe for disaster. The message is clear: Culture is not a line item to revisit after funding, it’s the operating system that determines whether yo...

2025 has been a challenging year for many of us. Take the time for the rest of 2025 to reflect on your year, with the desire to make 2026 your best year yet. Write down your goals.  Yes, literally write them down on paper. Say them out loud. Every. Single. Day. See you in '26! Mike

In today’s digital world, social media isn’t just an optional add-on for brands — it’s a core channel for communication, community building, and growth. But with shifting platforms, ever-changing algorithms, and higher audience expectations, simply “being on” social media isn’t enough. Growing brands need strategy, consistency, and expert support to stand out. In this episode, I’ll walk you throug...

Navigating Bold Leadership and Media Strategy with Heather Adams In this episode, I sit down with Heather Adams—a powerhouse in branding, publicity, and media strategy. Heather shares her incredible journey from government communications to leading high-impact publicity campaigns for bestselling authors and thought leaders. We talk about the bold moves she’s made in her career, the lessons she’s l...

In this episode, Michael sits down with Steve Tashjian, a world class high performance consultant with a deep background in elite sports. Steve’s journey has taken him from physical therapy and performance coaching to high level consulting roles across the Premier League and the US men’s national team during their World Cup run. His mission is simple and powerful: help individuals and teams excel...

Creating Organizational Cultures That Actually Work In this episode, Michael and cultural anthropologist Jitske Kramer dive deep into the heart of organizational culture. Michael shares a story from a startup he supported, where a crystal clear sense of purpose created unity, loyalty, and a genuine feeling of belonging. Employees stayed because they felt connected to something bigger than a job de...

Episode Overview In this episode, Michael talks with San Diego-based real estate investor Justin Brennan about one of the hottest topics in housing today, the rise of the 50-year mortgage, and what it means for homebuyers, investors, and the future of urban development. Their discussion explores the practical realities behind long-term mortgages, market resilience, and the shift toward apartment i...

Exiting Tech Businesses: Insights from Draven Draven, a seasoned tech entrepreneur, joined Michael to discuss his journey of building and successfully exiting two tech companies. The first was a software development agency that he scaled organically, and the second was a field service management business sold to a billion-dollar private equity group in July 2024. Draven shared valuable lessons on...

Overview In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, Michael Levitt welcomes Henry Yoshida, founder and CEO of Rocket Dollar, for a deep dive into how technology is reshaping investment accessibility. Together, they explore how average Americans can take control of their financial futures through self-directed IRAs and alternative asset investing. Empowering Diversified Investment Access Hen...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Michael welcomes Megan Bennett, a 23-year veteran in public relations, to discuss how authentic storytelling continues to outperform traditional advertising and paid promotions. Megan shares insights from her boutique agency’s work across the wellness, beauty, health, lifestyle, and technology sectors. Together, they explore why PR remains one of the most authenti...

Episode Summary: Culture misalignment is one of the most overlooked threats to organizational performance. In this episode, we explore how a disconnect between your values and day-to-day practices can quietly undermine productivity, engagement, and overall well-being. Drawing on " Workplace Culture " by Michael D. Levitt, we identify the most common early warning signs of misalignment and share pr...

Donovan’s Background and the Birth of Ethos Benefits Michael introduces Donovan Ryckis, CEO and founder of Ethos Benefits, a firm redefining how healthcare consulting is done. Donovan shares his journey from working as a fiduciary securities advisor in the financial services industry to launching Ethos Benefits. His shift to healthcare began when he helped a client navigate a 37% increase in premi...

Drew and Michael challenge the traditional view of sales as pushy or manipulative. They explore how sales can instead be an act of service, helping others find solutions that genuinely meet their needs. The discussion centers on shifting the mindset from “closing deals” to “opening opportunities,” where empathy, understanding, and authentic connection replace pressure and persuasion. The Connectio...

Gen Z Leadership and Community with Christy Pretzinger In this episode, Michael sits down with Christy Pretzinger, a 20-year business owner and content strategy expert for healthcare organizations, to explore her latest venture, the Better Leader Project. This initiative is designed to create intimate communities where Gen Z leaders can practice essential leadership skills. Christy emphasizes the...

Bio Info Jarrod Lopiccolo transforms brands through creative digital performance marketing with a strong architectural background. A veteran of 40+ podcasts and 100+ speaking engagements across North America and Europe, he delivers actionable insights for audiences to implement immediately. As CoFounder and CEO of Noble Studios, Jarrod has built an international agency serving Adobe, Google, and D...

Struggling with costs in your healthcare organization? Reach out to Michael.  Click Here for more info Episode Summary In this inspiring conversation, Michael Levitt welcomes Ciara, founder of Eventist, a leading SaaS company that revolutionized ticketing for dance competitions. What began as a side project for a friend turned into a thriving event management platform serving studios, festivals, a...

Niko's Entrepreneurial and Trading Journey Niko shared his entrepreneurial journey, starting with his mother's antique and jewelry store after his father's death, which inspired his interest in business. He worked in sales and marketing before opening his own call center that grew to 150 employees and $12 million in revenue. After becoming bored with the call center business, Niko pursued day trad...