Paper Napkin Wisdom · Leadership & Entrepreneurship Insights for Founders and Executives

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I sit down with Luis Velasquez , a leadership coach, resilience expert, and author of Ordinary Resilience . Luis has spent years studying and coaching high-achieving professionals on the power of resilience in leadership. His paper napkin wisdom? Resilience is equal to (Commitment + Persistence) multiplied by Optimism.   This simple yet profound equation spe...

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom , I had the privilege of sitting down with Tom Schwab , a leading voice in podcast interview marketing and the founder of Interview Valet . Tom challenges one of the most widely accepted marketing principles today: the idea that success is "one funnel away." Instead, he flips the script and declares that the real key to growth isn't funnels — it's conversatio...

In episode 225 of Paper Napkin Wisdom , Govindh Jayaraman welcomes Neila Ramsingh , a passionate advocate for personal empowerment and authenticity. Neilah shares a deeply resonant message: Find your voice and speak your truth. Your voice matters.   The Power of Speaking Up   Neilah highlights a reality many of us face— the world is full of noise, yet so many have lost their voices . Through perso...

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom , Govindh Jayaraman welcomes back Todd Palmer for another insightful conversation. Todd, a business coach, author, and former CEO, is known for his ability to help leaders and entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty, redefine success, and develop authentic leadership styles. His perspective is invaluable for those looking to build a sustainable and fulfilling path...

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom , we sit down with entrepreneur, marketer, and joy-bringer Nicole Donnelly. Right from the start, her paper napkin set the tone for our conversation—a napkin featuring a dog wearing a hat. Simple? Yes. Powerful? Absolutely. Because for Nicole, this whimsical image represents something much greater: the importance of bringing joy into everything we do.   Nicol...

In Episode 222 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with Rishi Khanna , CEO of ISHIR , to discuss a transformative approach to personal and professional growth. With over 25 years of experience in business, Rishi has built a thriving company while also discovering that success alone doesn't lead to fulfillment.   His realization? True success comes from living life by design, not by default —a less...

Growth is never a straight line— it's filled with obstacles, self-doubt, and moments of resistance. But what if we saw resistance not as a roadblock, but as a guide? That's exactly what Lolly Spindler believes. In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom , we dive deep into the concept of using resistance as a compass to help us grow.   Who is Lolly Spindler?   Lolly Spindler is a content marketing str...

In episode #220 of Paper Napkin Wisdom , we sat down with Andy Fine, founder of Sartoro , a custom menswear brand focused on sustainability, craftsmanship, and digital-first tailoring. Andy shared a principle that has shaped his entrepreneurial journey: "95% perfect takes 50% of the work—doubling your effort isn't worth the last 5%."   For entrepreneurs and leaders, this is a game-changing mindset...

In episode 219 of Paper Napkin Wisdom , Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Michael Schoenberger , an expert in telecommunications and business leadership. As the President of Sunco Communication and Installation , Michael has mastered the art of integrating legacy technologies—like rotary phones—with modern IP communications. But his insights go far beyond just phones. This conversation dives into t...

In episode 218 of Paper Napkin Wisdom , Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Eldon Sprickerhoff , a cybersecurity pioneer, entrepreneur, and author of Committed . Eldon shares deep insights from his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the power of perseverance in building a successful business.   Eldon's mantra, "Survive long enough to catch a lucky break," encapsulates...

In this insightful episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Robin Phillips, Executive Director of Child Care Aware of Missouri, to discuss the art and impact of advocacy—a skill that entrepreneurs and leaders can harness to create lasting change. Robin's experience in community development and her role in advocating for better family support systems provide a blueprint for...

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman interviews Max Zaharenkov , an entrepreneur and thought leader with a fascinating journey that merges technology, creativity, and innovation. With years of experience as a software developer, tech entrepreneur, and designer, Max brings a unique perspective to the table. As the founder of several startups and an advocate for minimalist desig...

In episode 215 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman is joined by Lori Haller, a globally recognized graphic designer, marketing strategist, and creative force behind Designing Response. With over 20 years of experience, Lori has collaborated with some of the world's most prestigious brands, including Hyatt Hotels, National Geographic, and Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions. Her approach to des...

Christopher Robbins, founder of Soul Degree and an advocate for transformational leadership and personal growth, has been guiding people through meaningful experiences that connect them to their purpose. Drawing from his extensive background in leadership development, adventure programming, and family life with his spouse, Mel Robbins, Christopher has created a space where individuals can pause, r...

In episode 213 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman welcomes Michelle Songy , a serial entrepreneur who has successfully built and led multiple ventures. Michelle shared a game-changing perspective that every entrepreneur and leader should consider: "Prepare to scale down at some point. It isn't a bad thing." This statement encapsulates her hard-earned wisdom and challenges the conventional b...

Episode 212 of Paper Napkin Wisdom brings a profound conversation with Boaz Ashkenazy, the founder of Simply Augmented, a company revolutionizing how businesses leverage AI. With a deep passion for innovation and leadership, Boaz challenges us to rethink the way we approach success, growth, and problem-solving. His mantra, "The future belongs to those who ask the right questions, not to those who...

Roberta Perry, the dynamic founder of ScrubzBody Skin Care Products, brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to episode 211 of Paper Napkin Wisdom. With a background spanning from marketing and sales to crafting high-quality skincare solutions, Roberta has successfully combined her entrepreneurial drive with a focus on wellness and self-care. Her story highlights the power of persistence, creativ...

Episode 210 of Paper Napkin Wisdom features a remarkable guest, Sekou Andrews, who is a master of the "poetic voice." As a globally recognized spoken word artist, inspirational speaker, and entrepreneur, Sekou has carved out a unique niche where storytelling, art, and business intersect. He has not only transformed the way we view spoken word but has also created a new vertical in professional edu...

Episode 209 of the Paper Napkin Wisdom podcast features Amanda A. Carpenter, a transformational coach whose insights illuminate the power of resilience and self-discovery. In this episode, Amanda shares her journey of turning setbacks into setups for success and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in leadership.   Amanda is a transformational coach, author, speaker, and the CEO of IAH.fit ,...

  Innovation often comes with its own set of challenges, not the least of which is overcoming the ubiquitous "no" that many inventors face. In a recent episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman sat down with Jack Courage, the host of "The 30 Year Overnight Sensation Podcast" and inventor of products like the Bulls Helmet, Foo-Do, and Wrist Rally. Jack shared his journey and the lessons he ...

Annie Meehan, a certified speaker, author, and talk show host, is an inspiring voice in personal transformation and leadership. Known for her authenticity and energy, Annie has dedicated her career to helping people rewrite their stories and embrace the power of resilience and intentionality. In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, she unveils her personal mantra, encapsulated as "P3: Purpose, For...

Jim Estill, CEO of Danby Appliances, is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist renowned for scaling businesses and empowering communities. With an illustrious career that spans multiple industries, Jim is celebrated for his ability to think big and execute bigger. From starting a business in the trunk of his car to leading companies to billion-dollar valuations, Jim embodies the etho...

In episode 205 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, host Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Kirsten Screen, a certified nutritionist and wellness advocate with a mission to debunk myths surrounding health and nutrition. With a robust online presence, Kirsten is well-known for her practical approach to wellness, helping individuals build sustainable habits that improve both their health and quality of life. Her i...

Introduction   In the latest episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Dennis Underwood, a cybersecurity expert and the innovative mind behind Cyber Crucible. With a career dedicated to protecting digital landscapes and developing tools to prevent data breaches, Dennis brings a wealth of insight into safeguarding the virtual world. Through his platform, Cyber Crucible, he's...

In episode 203 of the Paper Napkin Wisdom podcast, Govindh Jayaraman sits down with Tiffany Joy Murchison, an accomplished author, speaker, and the founder of TJM & Co. Media Boutique. With a wealth of experience in public relations and crisis management, Tiffany shared transformative insights into how leaders can navigate challenges and embrace resilience.   Tiffany's professional journey is a te...