The SMARTA Podcast
The SMARTA Podcast, hosted by Sonia Marta, features interviews with TED speakers, bestselling authors, keynote speakers, podcasters, Harvard Law lecturers and philosophy doctors. The show focuses on providing scientifically based tools to help listeners start their journey to success. Episodes cover daily habits and goal-setting methods that can be implemented immediately. Sonia Marta is an award-winning podcaster and Amazon bestselling co-author of 'Women Leading the Way'.
Episodes
How to succeed in your 20s & Overcome being Cringe with Kaia Tham
What if failing publicly is the single fastest way to build the exact life you want? Today, I am sitting down with 18-year-old entrepreneur and podcaster Kaia Tham. We are breaking down why getting comfortable with rejection early in life completely removes fear, how to build a massive personal brand on LinkedIn without being fake, and why you never need anyone’s permission to start.What you will
Stop Waiting for Permission: The 20-Year-Old Who Pitched Alex Hormozi
What if waiting for permission is the exact thing keeping you from the life you actually want?Today, I am sitting down with the incredibly disciplined 20-year-old entrepreneur and copywriter, Jay Yang. At just 16, Jay realized that following the traditional path was leading him toward a life he did not want.He stopped waiting for permission and started taking action. We talk about how his permissi
The 4 Crises That Will Reshape the World (And How to Survive it) with Blair Sheppard
What if the four massive crises facing humanity right now are actually your greatest opportunity to completely reinvent your future, and you have way less time than you think to act?What you will learn in this episode:Why the four biggest global trends are colliding simultaneously and how to survive them. Why treating your career as a straight vector is a massive mistake, and how to live your life
The 17-Minute Rule to Master ANY Skill in the World with David Guttman
What if the most prestigious college degree in the world is actually a quarter-million-dollar trap holding you back?Today, we are tearing down the traditional paths to success with Dave Guttman, an executive mentor who literally ripped up his original Wharton MBA on a podcast to prove how little utility it actually holds. As I settle into my new life as a university student here in Dublin, Dave
Stop Fearing the Unknown: How to Build Negative Capability with Steven D'Souza, Winner of Leadership Book of the Year
What if everything you have been taught about finding the "perfect" career path is not entirely true?Welcome back to The SMARTA Podcast! In Episode 106, we are flipping the script on uncertainty. I am sitting down with Steven D'Souza, the 2026 Business Book Awards winner for Leadership Book of the Year!Steven teaches at institutions like Oxford and IE Business School, and he is here
The Secret to Building a Legacy (That School Won't Teach You) with The Castle Man
What if you could spend every vacation in a castle, living like some of the greatest royalty members for your next holiday?Everyone goes away on holiday for summer. Many look for new enriching and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But not many find them. Today, we are exploring the magic of history, resilience, and curiosity with Roger Masterson, famously known as “The Castle Man.”What you will lear
The Secret Behind the Scenes of Oprah Onstage, with Layna Castle
What if the reason you aren't booking massive opportunities has absolutely nothing to do with your talent, and everything to do with your execution?Today, we are pulling back the curtain on the speaking industry to reveal what actually happens before a world-class leader steps onto a stage. I am joined by Layna Castle, who shares the unbelievable story of how volunteering at an Oprah Winfrey g
Successful people do THIS everyday. With Dr. John L. Terry, III
You do not need a title to be a leader. At the time I’m posting this, I just got my university acceptance letters.Today, we are shattering the myth that you need a title to be a leader. I am sitting down with Dr. John L. Terry III, the "Black Belt Leader," to explore why true leadership is a discipline, not a position. As I prepare to step into my university journey in Dublin, this conve
#102 How to Build Your Network for 18-24yo with Ashley Leeds
What if the only thing standing between you and your dream career is the courage to ask: "What is the best that can happen?"Today, we are breaking down why consistency, enthusiasm, and authenticity will always beat perfection.Ashley Leeds, famously known as the "15-Minute Guy," who spent 40 years as an employee, worked 30 different jobs, and finally took the leap to start his o
#101: Being human is your ultimate competitive advantage in the AI era! With Bryan Kramer
If you are relying on corporate buzzwords, rigid sales scripts, and AI automation to build your brand, your business is already dead.Welcome back to The SMARTA Podcast! In Episode 101, we are tearing down the myth of corporate perfectionism and unlocking why being human is your ultimate competitive advantage. I am joined by Bryan Kramer, legendary speaker, strategist, and author of H2H: Human to H
The 100: How to Unlock Your True Potential
If you are competing with AI on productivity, you have already lost.Welcome to the 100th episode of The SMARTA Podcast! Today, we are breaking down why human potential is your only real competitive advantage. I am joined by my very first guest, Andrew Bryant, who returns to discuss his new book, Potentialize.What you will learn:The Ignite framework to unlock potential. Why getting out of your comf
The Ultimate 2026 Reset to Rewire Your Nervous System with Angus Nelson
If you tell me you are completely fearless, you are a liar. Because fear isn't something to run from, it is an invitation to your ultimate potential!Welcome back to The SMARTA Podcast. Today, we are having a raw, unfiltered conversation about why you need to stop waiting for someone else to pick you and finally give yourself permission to be great. I am sitting down with executive coach and au
How to Communicate Like a Leader with Todd Cherches
What if the only thing keeping you from your dream job is the courage to walk up to a stranger on an airplane?Today, we are breaking down why "Visual Leadership" is the ultimate competitive advantage in an era where attention spans are plummeting. I am joined by Todd Cherches, an executive coach, NYU and Columbia University professor, and the author of Visual Leadership. Todd shares his
If you aren't scared, you aren't growing. Let Rob Swannie explain.
If you aren't waking up feeling absolutely scared to death about your goals, you are not evolving!Today, we are breaking down why putting technology before human connection will destroy your team. I am joined by Rob Swannie, a manufacturing and cybersecurity veteran who proves that empathy and trust will always outlast AI.What you will learn:Why the "3 T's" must always be Trust,
Marketing Expert: How to Build a Magnetic Brand: "Do It Afraid" with CEO Latoya Rogers
Going viral tomorrow won’t save your business, and chasing vanity metrics is secretly destroying your credibility!Founder and CEO Latoya Rogers reveals why chasing overnight fame fails and how building authentic community, trust, and courage creates sustainable success.What you will learn in this episode:The 3 C's of magnetic authority: Connection, Courage, and CollaborationWhy copycat marketi
Men's Coach explains Why We Choose the Wrong Partners & The Psychology of Attraction, with Faisal Khokhar
Is your nervous system secretly sabotaging your relationships and your success without you even realizing it?Today, we are breaking down the unspoken rules of modern masculinity, confidence, and relationships. In a world obsessed with toxic masculinity and hyper-independence, it is time to have a raw, unfiltered conversation about what it actually means to be a grounded, charismatic man today.We a
Ex-Army: This is How to Stay Calm Under Pressure! with Dan Shakespeare
Have you ever felt completely paralyzed when an unexpected problem ruins your plans, wondering how highly successful people seem to just roll with the punches?Welcome back to The SMARTA Podcast. Today, we are learning how to build unshakable resilience with someone who knows exactly what it takes to perform under the highest levels of pressure. We are sitting down with Dan Shakespeare, a former ta
PART 1: Stop Trying to Be Impressive: The Science of Influence in the AI Era with Henna Pryor
Are you exhausting yourself trying to make your resume, emails, and social media sound completely "polished" and impressive?For the first time ever, I’m splitting an episode into 2 parts. Welcome to Part 1 of my conversation with Henna Pryor. The 2nd part will be released on November 10th with the launch of my guest’s new book.Today, we are tearing down the myth that you need to be perfe
"Kindness is the Ultimate Strategy!" The Co-Author of "The Go-Giver" on Success, John David Mann
What is really driving your business, your career, and your life right now, is it truth, lies, mistakes, or complete bullshit.What you will learn in this episode:The diagnostic framework to uncover whether your business decisions are fueled by real purpose or unexamined noise.Why you need the blind confidence of a teenager to survive your first drafts, balanced with the radical humility of a monk
Exec coach: "Stop Chasing Clients!" How to Make Buyers Chase YOU (P=D Method) with Justin Michael
Are you exhausting yourself trying to build a "passive income" empire, only to feel like your own ambition is slowly burning you out?Widely known as the "John Wick of executive coaching”, Justin Michael is known for ruthlessly ‘assassinating’ your limiting beliefs about money, sales, and success.We dive into why "fast money collapses while slow money works," why building a
How to Scale Your Reputation & The Psychology of First Impressions with Kelly Lundberg
Have you ever felt like you are just "plodding along" in life, waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect strategy before you finally take action on your goals? Welcome to the podcast. Today, we are sitting down with global personal brand strategist Kelly Lundberg to talk about why your personal brand is never a done deal. We dive deep into why being your biggest bottleneck is keeping
The 16-Second Trick to Stop Overthinking & Brain Fog with Claire O'Connor
Are you constantly striving for perfection, only to feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and completely disconnected from what actually makes you happy?Today, we are taking a sledgehammer to the idea that you have to burn yourself out to be successful. We are exposing the hidden "saboteurs" that are ruining your productivity and giving you the exact, 16-second tools to stop them in their tracks.
Stop Waiting Until You’re Ready.
The life you’re chasing starts with one decision.Let me explain.Most people think success comes from having the perfect idea.Steve Ramsey believes it comes from something far simpler, and much harder.Showing up.Staying curious.Taking action before you feel ready.And becoming a better person before becoming a better entrepreneur.In this sunrise conversation, Steve shares the leadership lessons that
#1 Leadership Expert Explains Why Most Businesses Fail, Dane Hudson
The biggest reason most businesses fail isn’t a bad idea, it’s a lack of discipline.Let me explain.Everyone talks about vision.Vision attracts investors.Vision inspires teams.Vision gets people excited.But according to five-time CEO, executive coach, and author Dane Hudson, vision alone doesn’t build successful companies.Discipline does.In today’s episode, Dane shares the leadership lessons that o
How to Attract High-Paying Clients (Even If You're Young) with Jeffrey Shaw
Today, we are flipping everything you thought you knew about marketing, sales, and success completely upside down. We are talking about why finding a "niche" is terrible advice, why selling shouldn't feel creepy, and the absolute secret to understanding the psychology of high-end clients. If you have ever felt like you have massive potential but you're working way harder than you
AI is Making Us Lazy: How to Reclaim Your Critical Thinking! - Dr. Katie Trowbridge
What if the reason you stopped asking questions has nothing to do with curiosity — and everything to do with confidence?In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Katie Trowbridg, educator, TEDx speaker, leadership researcher, and author of Lead Boldly, Think Deeply for a conversation that is going to completely rewire the way you think about leadership, learning, and what it actually means to gr
Former CEO: “Scared Does NOT Mean Disqualified” with Patty Azarello
What if the only thing standing between you and the opportunity of a lifetime is the belief that you’re not ready?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with former CEO, executive coach, keynote speaker, and bestselling author Patty Azzarello, who became Hewlett-Packard’s youngest General Manager at 33, ran a billion-dollar software business at 35, and became a CEO by 38.But behind t
The Hidden Business Lessons From Luxury Hotels with Peter Prinsloo
What if the career you’re looking for isn’t a destination—but a passport?Most people think hospitality is about hotels, luxury, and customer service.But what if it’s actually one of the greatest leadership schools in the world?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Peter Prinsloo, General Manager of The Heritage Resort Ireland, to explore what it really takes to lead people, build
#1 Speaking Coach: "This Is Destroying Your Confidence!" Deborah Grayson Riegel
Most people think communication is about sounding smart.But what if the real secret is learning how to make people feel heard?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Deborah Riegel, executive coach, leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and author for a powerful conversation about confidence, difficult conversations, emotional intelligence, and the communication skill
Why Gen Z Language Isn’t “Bad English” with Valerie Fridland
If you’ve ever felt insecure about your voice, your accent, or the way you communicate, this episode is for you.Have you ever wondered why the new generations always text differently?Or why accents exist, or why people judge the way others talk, and how social media is transforming language in real time?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Valerie Fridland, professor of sociol
10,849 Days of Silent Mental Health Struggles with David Beeney
What if the thing you’ve spent years hiding… could become the thing that changes your life?For over 10,849 days, David silently battled panic attacks and anxiety while building a successful corporate career. No one knew. Not his colleagues. Not his friends. Not even his family.Then, in 2016, he made one decision that changed everything: he spoke up.Today marks nearly 10 years since David first bro
The Science of Happiness Will Shock You (It's Not What You Think!) with Dr. Mark Henry
If you’re deciding where to live, study, or build your future, this episode might completely change your perspective.In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, we break down one of the biggest misconceptions about success, countries, and your future: why the happiest places in the world aren’t what you think, and what that means for you.I’m joined by Dr. Mark Henry, expert in psychology, history, a
Why Everybody has Something to Hide with Guy Kawasaki
What if the secret to building a remarkable life isn’t chasing a personal brand… but making the world better first?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Guy Kawasaki, bestselling author, entrepreneur, former chief evangelist of Apple, host of Remarkable People, and one of the most respected voices in innovation, influence, and entrepreneurship.This conversation goes far beyond
Feeling Stuck? The 8-Hour Rule That Will Change Your Life with Laura Best
Feeling Stuck? The 8-Hour Rule That Will Change Your Life with Laura BestHave you ever felt like you achieved everything you were "supposed" to, but you still feel completely disconnected from what lights you up?Today, we are diving deep into the massive myth that you have to blow up your life and quit everything just to follow your passion. We're uncovering how to find meaning right
The Truth About Burnout No One Talks About with Aoife O'Brien
What if the reason you feel exhausted… is because you’re doing too much of the wrong things?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Aoife O’Brien, burnout specialist, leadership coach, and founder of Happier at Work.This conversation is a wake-up call.We break down why burnout doesn’t happen overnight, how high performers are often the most at risk, and why constantly pushing thr
What Successful Companies Do Differently with Dr. Alan O'Neill
What if the reason your business, or your life isn’t growing… is because you’re focusing on the wrong things?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Alan O’Neill, international business strategist, advisor, and author, to break down what actually drives growth in today’s fast-moving world.This is a conversation about clarity, focus, and execution.We dive into why most companies o
How to Control Your Mind in Extreme Situations with Chris Moon
What would you do if everything you relied on: your safety, your future, was taken away in seconds?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Chris Moon, a former soldier, ultra-endurance athlete, and landmine survivor who quite literally had to rebuild his life from nothing.This is not a conversation about “staying positive.”It’s about facing reality, taking ownership, and choosing
Why Most People Never Achieve Their Dreams (And How To Change That) with Craig Gauthier
What if the biggest thing holding you back from success… is simply thinking too much?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with entrepreneur, investor, filmmaker, and speaker Craig Gauthier to talk about the mindset shift that separates people who dream about success from those who actually create it.Craig shares the truth about modern ambition: most people are stuck consuming ideas
How to Lead Through Uncertainty (Without Burning Out) with Meridith Elliott Powell
What if uncertainty isn’t the problem… but your reaction to it is?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Meridith Elliott Powell, award-winning business strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Thrive, to break down how leaders, students, and teams can stop fearing disruption and start using it as fuel.We talk about why most people wait for change instead of preparing for it,
The 30-Day Focus Strategy That Solves 10-Year Problems with Isamu Pant
What if the real reason you’re stuck isn’t lack of effort… but solving the wrong problem?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Isamu Pant, behavioural health strategist, former Amazon leader, and author of The Behavioral Health Fix, to unpack why most leaders, students, and organizations stay trapped in cycles of busyness without breakthrough.We talk about: • Why passion alone
Stop Using LinkedIn Wrong (Do This Instead), with 'The 15-Minute Guy', Ashley Leeds
LinkedIn isn’t social media… but it's the biggest networking room you’re not walking into.Most people treat LinkedIn like a CV graveyard or a corporate Instagram.In this episode, we break that myth.Today, I’m joined by Ashley Leeds, known as The 15 Minute Guy, and we unpack exactly how to build confidence, visibility, and real opportunities on LinkedIn in just 15 minutes a day.If you’ve ever t
Your Attitude Is Shaping Your Life More Than You Think. Unlock Your Hidden Genius with Betsy Wills
What if the reason you feel stuck isn’t a lack of talent, but a lack of self-awareness?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I’m joined by Betsy Wills, leadership expert, author, and a voice featured in The Washington Post, to explore how understanding your attitude, not just your skills, can completely change the way you lead, learn, and live.This conversation is about ownership, mindset, and
Why Trying to Control Your Future Is Making You Miserable with Brianna Sylver
What if uncertainty isn’t a sign you’re failing, but proof you’re growing?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I’m joined by Brianna Sylver, innovation leader, author of Leading Through Freefall, and a trusted voice featured in The Washington Post. Brianna has spent over 20 years leading organizations through uncertainty, change, and disruption, and today she breaks down what no one teaches y
How to Keep Going When Life Feels Impossible, with Jonathan Conyers
What if the thing you’re missing right now isn’t motivation — but a village?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Jonathan Conyers, author of I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here, campaign feature on Humans of New York, and a voice recognised by The Washington Post, to talk about resilience, community, forgiveness, and how to keep going when life stacks the odds against you.This conversa
Courage Beats Readiness: How to Start Before You’re Ready, with Musonda Veronica
Do you feel stuck not because you’re behind, but because you’re waiting to feel ready?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Musonda Veronica, Insider LA’s Person of the Year 2026, TEDx speaker, leadership coach, and keynote speaker, to break down how to step into this year with courage, clarity, and momentum even when your path doesn’t make sense yet.This conversation is about
The 1-1-1 Rule Will Change Your Life. - UK's #1 Motivational Business Speaker, Brad Burton
You don’t have to try harder and post more. You have to get more clarity on what you do. Find your ‘why’. Your purpose.As a new year begins, most people set goals. Very few build the discipline, clarity, and mindset required to actually follow through.In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with one of the most direct, no-nonsense voices in business to talk about productivity with pur
How to Make 2026 Your Year (Without Burning Out) from Michele Philips
What if 2026 doesn’t need more pressure... just more energy?This is the final episode of 2025 on The SMARTA Podcast, and it’s not about resolutions you’ll abandon by February. It’s about learning how to enter 2026 with clarity, confidence, and sustainable energy, without burning out or betraying yourself.In today’s conversation, I’m joined by Michele Phillips, an expert in emotional intelligence,
The 7 Steps to Having a Successful Career in Your 20s with Marnie Stockman & Nick Coniglio
What if your future success has less to do with your grades… and everything to do with how well you run the business of YOU?In this very first debate-style episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio, co-authors of The Business of You, to tackle one of the most important conversations for students, young professionals, and leaders navigating an AI-driven world:
The Truth About AI, Jobs & the Future of Work (MIT Expert Explains!)
What if AI doesn’t replace you…but amplifies exactly who you choose to become in 2026?As we step into a future shaped by automation, algorithms, and artificial intelligence, the real question isn’t what AI will do to us, it’s how we choose to work with it.In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with one of the world’s leading voices on human-centered AI to break through the fear, the
Stop Letting Toxic People Steal Your Energy in 2026: The 5-Step Framework
Do you ever feel like your energy is being drained by the same handful of people, but you have no idea how to stop it?If you’ve ever felt stuck, small, or completely exhausted by a "challenging" person in your life, this episode is a must-listen.We all have those people who put us on a pedestal one minute and test our absolute last nerve the next. But here’s the truth: You cannot step in
The #1 Leadership Mistake that's Killing Innovation You Need to Avoid! With Philippa White
What if the biggest way to grow in your career was becoming more human?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Philippa J. White to explore why leadership, innovation, and performance are breaking down in modern organisations, and what it actually takes to rebuild them. We talk about disengagement, quiet quitting, siloed teams, and why so many workplaces are struggling despite mo
How to Become a Good Communicator in 2026
What if the only thing standing between you and the opportunities you want is the way you communicate?Today’s episode pulls back the curtain on the REAL reason talented people get overlooked, while others get promoted, remembered, and invited into rooms you haven’t entered yet.Before we dive in, here’s the truth:Your ideas don’t matter if people can’t understand, feel, or remember them.And today,
How AI Is Transforming Film, Content, and Creativity Forever, with Maria Valenzuela
What if the key to building a global career isn’t talent or timing…But your ability to stay curious, adaptable, and true to yourself, no matter the noise around you?Today on The SMARTA Podcast, we’re diving into a conversation with someone who has shaped the global entertainment landscape from every angle, from Sony Pictures Iberia to Movistar Plus+ to Huawei Technologies.My guest, Maria Valenzuel
Stop worrying about money. With Jacqui Clarke
What if the only thing standing between you and financial freedom is the story you keep telling yourself about money?Today on The SMARTA Podcast, we’re cutting through the noise. We’re talking about the money habits keeping you stuck, the mindset shifts that actually matter, and the three mistakes almost EVERYONE makes. Even high-net-worth families Jacqui advises. Whether you’re 17, 27, or 47, thi
If you're feeling down, listen to this. With Sonia McDonald
What if the only thing standing between you and the life you want… is courage?If you’ve ever doubted yourself, felt behind, or wondered if you’re “too much” or “not enough,” today’s episode is just what you needed.In this conversation, bestselling author and leadership expert Sonia McDonald reveals the mindset shifts, courage rituals, and confidence habits that helped her rebuild her life from scr
3 Ways to Become More Confident Tomorrow with Ben J. Munday
What if I told you that your posture could shape your future?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I’m joined by Ben J. Munday, speaker, coach, and public speaking mentor to explore the power of physicality, confidence, and connection.Ben’s approach to leadership and communication bridges the physical, mental, and emotional. Through his work with organizations and as VP of Education for Berlin
What’s Really Keeping You Stuck in Your Career with Yvette Janse Van Rensburg
Have you ever felt like you’re standing still in your career, not because of the ceiling above you, but the floor beneath you?Today on The SMARTA Podcast, we dive deep into what’s really holding you back at work and how to unlock your potential by removing the “interference” that clouds performance.In this episode, we unpack:💡 Why you need to stop managing change and start building change fitness💡
How to Become a Skilled and Successful Communicator Even If You’re an Introvert with Richard Etienne
What if the very things you think are “holding you back” are actually your greatest power?If you’ve ever felt overlooked in a loud room, struggled to be taken seriously at work, or questioned whether your voice truly matters, today’s episode is going to shift something in you. Today you will learn how to own your voice, communicate with impact, and lead confidently whether you’re an introvert, an
How to Build a 6-Figure Business Around Your Story with Katrena Friel
Are you stuck between your job and your dream? Wondering how to finally start your personal brand and actually make it profitable? Or maybe you’re curious what truly separates those who talk about success from those who live it?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, Sonia sits down with Katrena Friel, the powerhouse behind the Becoming the Expert methodology and founder of the Business Mentor Inst
Reprogram Your Mind for Success in 30 Minutes with Bestselling Author Bob Burg
What if your biggest limitation isn’t a lack of skill… but an unconscious belief you’ve never questioned?What if selling, leading, and succeeding had less to do with persuasion… and more to do with curiosity?And what if generosity, not hustle, was the ultimate competitive edge?The answers lie in this week’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, where I sit down with Bob Burg, bestselling co-author of The
The Secret to Becoming Financially Independent and Living “Always Free” with Jason Graystone
CHEERS to the 50th episode of The SMARTA Podcast! Today, I’m joined by someone whose work has transformed how thousands of people think about money, mindset, and true freedom: Jason Graystone, investor, entrepreneur, mentor, and author of Always Free.Jason is best known for helping people master their finances through emotional intelligence and practical trading strategies that go beyond wealth th
How to Get Into Your Dream University - The Education Doctor, Pamela Ellis
Today on The SMARTA Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Pamela Ellis, widely known as ‘The Education Doctor’ an award-winning educational consultant, researcher, and author who has personally visited more than 500 colleges and universities.If you’re a parent, student, or educator navigating the road to college, this episode is a must-listen.In this episode, we unpack the real roadmap to college success bey
How to Stay Motivated and Get Things Done with Nikki Butlin
In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Nikki Butlin, entrepreneur, author of Driven to Achieve, and a powerhouse leader who blends resilience, authenticity, and candour with business acumen. Inspired by her father Peter’s journey of building a multi-million-pound company, Nikki forged her own path, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, leadership, and life as a single moth
Emotional Intelligence at Work: How to Truly Engage Your Team with Ricardo Cabete
How do you get people to feel deeply engaged, motivated, and connected at work?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Ricardo Cabete: global keynote speaker and emotional intelligence expert who helps Fortune 500 companies like Novartis, PwC, and HSBC boost employee engagement through the power of emotional connection.With 17 years of experience as a rock band lead singer, Ricardo
#1 Customer Experience Guru: The 12 Secrets to Service Excellence - Ron Kaufman
What does it really mean to uplift service, and why does it matter more now than ever?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Ron Kaufman, New York Times bestselling author of Uplifting Service, globally ranked customer service expert, and one of the world’s top keynote speakers on leadership, culture, and service excellence. For over 30 years, Ron has helped organizations from Sing
How to Become a Great Leader, from #1 Teamwork Expert, Dr. David Burkus
What separates good leaders from great ones? How do the best teams thrive while others fall apart?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Dr. David Burkus, best-selling author of Build Your Best Team Ever, globally recognized leadership thinker, and trusted advisor to organizations like NASA, Adobe, and PepsiCo. With over 20 years of research and experience, David reveals the surpri
Why Crazy Ideas Build the Best Businesses with the founder of MAD Shoes
What does it really take to turn a guilty pleasure into a global brand, and why do the “crazy” ideas often become the ones that change your life?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Georgiana Ghiciuc, a powerhouse entrepreneur whose career has spanned academia, digital marketing, employer branding, and now high fashion. Georgiana opens up about how burnout and self-doubt pushed h
The Secret to Managing Yourself (and Your Life) with Rob Kalwarowsky
Do you ever wonder how great leaders stay calm, focused, and effective when everything around them feels out of control?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, bestselling author Sonia Marta sits down with executive coach Rob Kalwarowsky to share practical strategies on self-leadership, managing chaos, and finding clarity under pressure.If you’ve searched for how to manage stress, lead with confide
How Your Voice Shapes Your Identity with Jimmy Cannon
Do you truly know your voice? Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to express yourself fully, without fear or comparison?In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, explore the power of voice with singer, vocal coach, and educator Jimmy Cannon. Through his unique perspective, Jimmy reveals why your voice is more than sound. It’s identity, freedom, and the purest expression of your inner se
How to retire FAST by saving LESS with Julia Cancro
You can get richer over time by investing less, earlier.In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, bestselling author Sonia Marta sits down with Julia Cancro, finance expert and author of More Than Cash, to reveal practical money tips that actually work.If you’ve ever Googled “how to invest for beginners” or “how to retire early,” this conversation is packed with simple strategies you can apply today.
How to Build Unshakable Confidence with Juan Bendana
What if confidence isn’t something you’re born with… but something you build?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Juan Bendaña: keynote speaker, author, and Gen Z leadership expert to unpack what real confidence looks like and how you can stop waiting and start leading. From school auditoriums to global stages, Juan has shared his story with over 250,000 students and professional
What an Olympic Athlete Can Teach You About Powerful Speaking
What does it really take to speak so people listen in meetings, on stage, and in high-stakes moments?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Deborah Gardner, former Olympic trial swimmer turned renowned keynote speaker and Hall of Fame inductee, to talk about how women can lead through confident, compelling communication.Deborah breaks down the myths of “professionalism,” shares pra
How to Speak So People Listen with Oliver Aust
How do the world’s most successful leaders communicate with confidence and clarity even in chaos?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, Oliver Aust: bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and CEO communication strategist, shares his insights on what it really takes to become an influential, unignorable leader in today’s world.With two decades of experience advising C-level executives, political leaders
The #1 Rule That Will Get You Promoted Faster with Jacob Karnes
Feel like you’re behind in life? Or unsure how to make your first job count?Jacob Karnes has coached hundreds of young professionals, and in this episode, he reveals exactly what he wishes he knew when he started out and how you can master your mindset, your brand, and your career.Jacob is the bestselling author of Master Your First Job and the founder of Waves Business Coaching. He spent 10 years
What They Don't Teach You About Money with Certified Money Coach, Luca Caruana
Do you feel overwhelmed by money or unsure where to begin with investing, saving, or building wealth? You’re not alone, and this episode will help you turn confusion into clarity.In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I’m joined by certified money coach, international speaker, and founder of MoneyPal, Luca Caruana, to talk about financial confidence, emotional wealth, and starting small with your
What Makes a Great Speaker with Brian Drury
What if the worst thing that ever happened to you became the reason you succeed?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with speaker, storytelling coach, and emotional clarity guide Brian Drury to talk about how your biggest pain can shape your greatest platform. From the power of emotional shifts on stage to building a life that feels as good as it looks, Brian shares the exact mindset,
“Everything Changes When You Start Believing You’re Worth It” - #1 Booked Motivational Speaker, Jordan Toma
Ever felt like you were falling behind — in school, in life, or just in general?In this powerful episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Jordan Toma, motivational speaker, special education advocate, and author of I’m Just a Kid With an IEP, to talk about what it means to believe in yourself when no one else seems to.Jordan went from a 1.7 GPA to delivering life-changing talks across the co
How to Create a Life of Purpose in a Distracted World with John R. Miles
“Being apathetic is a choice.”In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with John R. Miles, founder of the Passion Struck podcast and a former U.S. Navy officer turned intentional living strategist, to explore how to break free from autopilot and design a life that truly matters.John shares how to reconnect with your purpose, reclaim your identity, and challenge the habits that keep you st
Let Go of Needing Approval And Watch Your Life Change with America’s Breakthrough Speaker, Brian Biro
What if the way you show up: your energy, your focus, your choices, was more powerful than your circumstances?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Brian Biro, America’s #1 Breakthrough Speaker and bestselling author of Beyond Success, to talk about how we can stop striving for approval, start showing up with purpose, and lead with energy and presence — even in moments of fear, do
The Real Reason You’ve Lost Motivation (And How to Get It Back) with Joshua M. Evans
Feeling disconnected from your work? Wondering where your motivation went?In this episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Joshua M. Evans, bestselling author, keynote speaker, and purpose-driven leadership expert, to talk about how to reignite passion even in the most repetitive, exhausting, or corporate of jobs.You’ll walk away with tools, mindset shifts, and the surprising truth about ent
