Paper Napkin Wisdom - Podcast And Blog For Entrepreneurs, Leaders And Difference-makers

Michael Walsh is no stranger to growth. As the founder of Walsh Business Growth, he’s spent years helping established business owners scale with intention, clarity, and impact. In this second installment of our Freedom Framework special on Paper Napkin Wisdom, Michael returns to reveal one of his most powerful visual tools for growth: The 4 Danger Zones.  Drawn on a simple napkin (as all great ideas are), Michael lays out the major inflection points — and hidden pitfalls — that business owners face as they scale from $1M to $20M and beyond. Each stage brings a new level of complexity, risk, and decision-making, and many businesses stall — or crash — when they hit these invisible ceilings.  “The danger zones don’t show up in your financials right away. They show up in your energy, your confidence, your ability to lead.” — Michael Walsh  Let’s break down why these zones matter — and how leaders can spot them before they become business breakers.  Stage 1: The $1M Hurdle — The Founder's Grind  Most business

Freedom. It’s a word thrown around a lot in entrepreneurial circles. For some, it’s about time. For others, money. But in Episode 243 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Michael Walsh challenges all of us to look deeper. With his napkin reading, “Freedom is not a selfish act,” he invites established business owners to consider a profound shift in how they view growth and fulfillment.  Michael Walsh isn’t just another business coach. He’s a skilled strategist with decades of experience guiding entrepreneurs who have already built something successful—but feel stuck, exhausted, or unsure of what’s next. His new book, Freedom by Design, is a guide for those who want to reconnect with purpose and build a life (and business) that serves them—not the other way around.  In our conversation, Michael explains that many business owners start out seeking autonomy—not wealth. “A lot of people think that entrepreneurs are about the money,” he says. “What I find typically is they’re not. They’re about the autonomy they can gain by

“Self-care isn’t selfish… it’s essential.”  That’s the simple but deeply powerful message that Karen Kossow chose to write on her napkin for this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom. And it’s a message that comes from lived experience.  Karen is a devoted parent of two autistic children and a tireless advocate for those navigating complex family dynamics. As a life coach and speaker, she specializes in helping caregivers, especially mothers, shift their mindset from burnout and guilt to empowerment and sustainability.  In our conversation, Karen shares how self-care transformed her parenting, her marriage, and her impact as a coach. “I see firsthand in my own life, and with the clients that I work with, what happens when people in stressful situations that they can’t get out of don’t take care of themselves,” she says. It’s not just about spa days or bubble baths—it’s about survival, and more importantly, about thriving.  She challenges the narrative that taking time for yourself is a luxury or an indulgence. In

In Episode 241 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I reconnect with someone whose growth journey I’ve witnessed firsthand—Marina Byezhanova. She’s not just a remarkable entrepreneur and thought leader; she’s also someone I’ve had the privilege to coach during her early years in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization Accelerator program. Today, she’s the co-founder of Brand of a Leader, a global personal branding agency that helps CEOs and founders show up powerfully and authentically in a noisy world.  Marina's journey is one of identity, courage, and clarity. Born in Ukraine, she immigrated to Canada as a teenager, carrying the weight of reinvention on her shoulders. Her story isn't just about entrepreneurship—it's about the transformation that happens when we stop hiding and start standing in our truth.  Her Paper Napkin Wisdom is handwritten and bold: "Stand out. Speak up. Be radically authentic." At the top, she’s penned “BOAL”—the acronym for her company, Brand of a Leader—a testament to how deeply this message is woven

There’s something really honest about a message that stops you cold, makes you sit up straighter, and asks you: What are you really doing with your time?  That’s exactly what happened when I sat down (for the second time!) with Borzou Azabdaftari, founder of NickelBronx, a bold and authentic brand identity firm based in Washington, D.C. Our first recording got lost to the digital ether—but honestly, the second take felt even more powerful. And that’s a lesson in itself.  Borzou came to Paper Napkin Wisdom with this message scrawled on a napkin: “The time will pass regardless.”  At first glance, it might seem simple. But simple doesn’t mean small. In fact, the best wisdom often hides in plain sight.  “In two years, you could be further along… or not. But the time’s going to pass either way,” he said.  That landed hard for me. And I know it will for you too.  As entrepreneurs, leaders, creatives—we obsess over the right time, the right setup, the perfect conditions. But Borzou challenges all of that. He i

In Episode 240 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we’re joined by Darcel Dillard-Suite, a powerhouse entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and co-founder of Full Circle Health. With nearly three decades of entrepreneurial experience, Darcel has built a thriving business alongside her husband, a psychiatrist, focused on holistic mental wellness and support for underrepresented communities. Her impact has been far-reaching, not just as a business leader, but as a mentor and motivator helping others rise through the challenges of entrepreneurship.  Her napkin is a blueprint for success that every entrepreneur should take to heart:  “Diversify, Stay Determined, Develop Strong Financial Advisors.”  These aren’t just words—they’re lessons hard-won through years of navigating the entrepreneurial grind. And each of them holds a story that could change the way you build your business.  Diversify or Die Trying  "I learned the hard way that if I didn’t diversify this business and get income coming from other directions...we’r

In Episode 238 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with James Kaveney, founder of Unlimited Heart, a transformative platform rooted in helping people lead with courage, connection, and clarity. James is a speaker, coach, and facilitator who draws deeply from personal experience, emotional intelligence, and heart-centered living to guide individuals and leaders toward lives of greater purpose and peace. He’s someone who doesn’t just speak about resilience—he lives it. Through the course of his journey, James has faced down some of life’s hardest challenges and turned them into tools for impact. His Paper Napkin captures this transformational spirit in a handwritten truth that hits with soul-deep simplicity:  “Challenges are teachers. Your greatest challenges are your greatest teachers. Transform pain into purpose — seize the day, and embrace the truth of your mortality. An unlimited heart fuels a life well-lived.”  In the conversation, James opens up about what it means to truly live with an "unlimited heart

In this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I sit down with Dr. Heidi Hanna, a global expert in stress mastery, resilience training, and brain-based performance strategies. She’s a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and leadership coach who has worked with high-impact organizations like Google, Cisco, the PGA Tour, the U.S. Military, and countless executive teams around the world. She’s also someone who walks the walk—bringing vulnerability, wisdom, and science together in a powerful way that hits home.  Heidi’s journey into understanding the human brain wasn’t just academic—it was personal. Struggling with anxiety from an early age, she was driven to understand what was really happening under the surface when stress took over. Her discoveries changed not only her life but the lives of thousands who’ve heard her speak, read her books, or engaged with her coaching. She believes—and proves—that resilience isn’t a trait, it’s a trainable rhythm. And in this episode, she invites us all to tune in.  Her Paper N

If you were watching NFL football in the early ’90s, you know the name Mark Rypien. He’s the Super Bowl MVP who led Washington to victory in Super Bowl XXVI. The first Canadian-born quarterback to start in the NFL. A big-game player with a big arm.  But what most people don’t know is the powerful story that came after the confetti.  In this special episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, I sit down with Mark Rypien to talk about the journey beyond the game — one that led him through darkness, loss, healing, and ultimately, purpose.  And what did he write on his napkin?  "Success = Preparation + Opportunity."  It might sound like a classic quote, something you’d see on a locker room wall. But when Mark Rypien writes it, it carries weight — not just from the wins he celebrated, but from the battles he’s fought, many of them far from the spotlight.  A Life in Two Halves  Mark’s football career is the kind most kids dream about: drafted by the NFL, crowned a Super Bowl champion, and remembered as a clutch

Julie Whitney’s career reads like a masterclass in communication—25 years in PR, authoring thousands of news releases, booking stories that captivated viewers across major networks, and crafting messaging that cut through the noise. But in a bold pivot, Julie turned her storytelling superpowers toward something more heartfelt and enduring: children’s books.  In this inspiring episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with Julie to unpack how she went from running a successful public relations firm to breathing life into a story that’s now soaring through classrooms, libraries, and hearts—Astra the Lonely Airplane. Her napkin says it all: “It only takes ONE yes!” That one yes—when pursued with purpose, persistence, and passion—can change everything.  From Crisis Response to Creative Resilience  Julie was no stranger to high stakes. As the founder of Phillippi-Whitney Communications, she helped her clients navigate the media landscape, crisis communication, and brand positioning. But as the pandemic gr

 Bryce North is not your average entrepreneur. He's a venture capitalist, tech innovator, and the fearless founder of Don’t Be A Little Pitch — a platform aimed at transforming the pitch process for startups and investors alike. But behind the bold branding and quick wit is a deeper lesson — one that was hard-earned through pain, failure, and raw self-discovery.  In Episode 234 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Bryce shares a powerful truth on a napkin: “The hardest decisions often lead to the most meaningful outcomes.” And he doesn’t just say it — he lives it.  From building startups and walking away from a business that wasn’t serving him, to reclaiming his voice after the kind of betrayal that cuts to the bone, Bryce’s story is proof that making the hard call — even when it feels like a leap into the void — is where real transformation begins.  Finding Meaning Through Missteps  Bryce opens up about a toxic business partnership that went sideways — not because of a failed product or market miscalculation,

Stéphanie Szostak is the kind of person who doesn’t just light up the screen—she lights up every conversation with depth, grace, and a grounded sense of self that comes from real inner work.  You may recognize her from blockbuster films like Iron Man 3 or The Devil Wears Prada, or from her unforgettable role as Delilah in ABC’s A Million Little Things. But in this episode of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Stéphanie isn't playing a character—she’s showing up as herself: a woman navigating the messy, beautiful work of living from the inside out.  And her napkin says it all:  “I dare to go after my truth with love & humor.”  It’s deceptively simple. But like most profound truths, it’s the kind of statement that sits with you. It asks you to reflect. It challenges you to be bold. And it offers a softer path forward—one paved with compassion and lightness.  From French Roots to Hollywood and Back to Self  Stéphanie’s journey didn’t follow a script.  She grew up in France, came to the U.S. to study marketi

In Episode 232 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with Hristo Arakliev, co-founder of Hyperzon, Amazon growth strategist, and entrepreneur with a clear edge—one honed through experience, humility, and a relentless commitment to intentionality.  With over a decade of experience navigating the complex world of Amazon growth, Hristo has helped brands crack the code to sustainable success in one of the world’s most competitive ecosystems. But in this conversation, he opened up about something far deeper than logistics, optimization, or algorithms. He shared a personal, human truth that transcends any platform or market:  “Every action you take should reflect the person you believe you are! Life isn't about finding yourself – it's about creating yourself, one bold step at a time.”  This message, scribbled on a bright orange napkin, speaks volumes. It’s a challenge, a mantra, and a compass rolled into one. And it perfectly captures Hristo’s philosophy—both in business and in life.  Identity First, Strate

Laura Burke is a powerhouse of transformation. A corporate leader turned coach, mentor, and authenticity advocate, Laura brings more than just credentials to the conversation—she brings clarity, conviction, and a contagious energy. With a background that spans executive leadership, people development, and personal growth, she now champions others in stepping fully into their purpose.  In Episode 231 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Laura shares the wisdom behind a deceptively simple napkin: "If you are both excited and terrified, that's how you know it's worth it!" It's a phrase that hits home for anyone who's ever stood at the edge of a big leap.  Laura's journey is full of those leaps—from climbing the ranks in corporate America to making the decision to leave behind certainty for something bigger, something bolder. What made that terrifying shift worthwhile? "It was the alignment. I could finally see that everything I had done before was leading me to this moment. That’s where the excitement came in."  Thro

In episode #230 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we sit down with Ted Nolan—former NHL head coach, Jack Adams Award winner, and proud member of the Ojibwe Nation. Known not just for his coaching success but for the powerful presence he brings to every room, Ted shares the napkin that has guided him through every chapter of his life: 

 In Episode 229 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Govindh Jayaraman sits down with the remarkable Sheelagh Whittaker — a trailblazer in Canadian business, a bold thinker, and a woman whose leadership career spans from her time as CEO of EDS Canada to boardroom seats at global giants like Imperial Oil, RBC, and CanWest. Sheelagh is not only known for her business acumen but also for her candid style and fearless authenticity.  Her Paper Napkin wisdom?  “Tell the truth quickly.”  Simple. Sharp. And as Sheelagh explains, it’s a principle that has shaped her entire career.  “The longer you wait to tell the truth, the worse it gets,” she says. “And it never gets better. Ever.”  What unfolds in this episode is not just the rationale behind that one-liner, but a deeply inspiring conversation about the power of truth in leadership, the role of transparency in building trust, and why clarity — delivered swiftly — can be your greatest asset as a leader.  Truth as a Business Strategy  For Sheelagh, honesty isn't ju

Warren Rustand is more than a seasoned entrepreneur and former White House Appointments Secretary — he’s a mentor to leaders across the globe, a passionate advocate for intentional living, and someone who’s spent decades helping others uncover their best selves. In Episode 228 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Warren shares the essence of leadership in one quiet, powerful quote:  "When you ask someone a commitment question, don't speak until you are given an answer."  It’s a lesson in restraint, respect, and trust. And it perfectly embodies the kind of leader Warren is — someone who believes that real transformation happens not in what we say, but in how we listen and how we wait.  The Moment of Commitment Is Sacred  Warren’s paper napkin insight reminds us that commitment is a turning point. Whether in business, relationships, or leadership, the moment we ask someone to commit to something is loaded with meaning. And yet, too often we sabotage it by rushing in to clarify, soften, or over-explain.  Warren ex

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 speaks volumes about what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur and leader. Luis breaks it down: commitment and persistence are essential, but their impact is exponentially amplified when fueled by optimism.  The Resilience Equation: Commitment + Persistence x Optimism  Resilience is often mistaken for the ability to “tough it out.” But according to Luis, resilience is a process, not an event. It’s about continuously showing up, refining your approach, and maintaining a belief that better days are ahead.  "Commitment is knowing why you do what you do. Persistence is showing up when things get tough. But without o

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 conversations.  The Myth of "One Funnel Away"  Marketing today is flooded with automation, funnels, and conversion-driven tactics. Tom argues that this transactional approach is outdated. Instead, he believes that real business growth comes from building trust and relationships through genuine conversations.  "The biggest thing I'm yelling right now is that everyone is talking about this ‘one funnel away’ idea, but it's not about funnels—it's about conversations!" – Tom Schwab  Rather than focusing on optimizing landing pages and sales sequences, Tom advocates for leveraging podcast interviews and authentic conversations t

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 personal and professional experiences, she has seen how cultural barriers, past traumas, and fear often silence people. But reclaiming one’s voice is not just about personal growth; it’s about making a difference.  "Many of us stay silent because of fear—fear of judgment, rejection, or failure. But the moment we start speaking our truth, we unlock a whole new level of authenticity and purpose." – Neila Ramsingh  Overcoming Fear and Cultural Conditioning  One of the biggest obstacles to speaking one’s truth is fear. Fear of being wrong, fear of offending others, or fear of failure. Neilah shares that much of this fea