Today’s episode of The Leaders’ Arena is all about leadership under pressure.
Clifford Starks and I dive into what it actually means to stand firm when the ground shifts beneath you. We talk about internal alignment, personal development, and the difference between reacting to the world and responding with intention. Clifford brings his perspective as a coach and former UFC fighter, and I bring two decades of navigating highly regulated, constantly shifting industries.
We cover resilience, owning your voice, serving the right audience, staying small and nimble when the world expects you to play it safe, and why the underdog mentality has shaped both of us. We get into setbacks, identity, self-ownership, and the real work of becoming someone who can hold steady in the middle of uncertainty.
This conversation wasn’t planned. A guest canceled, we turned the mics on, and something real came out - an unscripted discussion between two people who know what it feels like to adapt, pivot, and stay rooted while the pressure builds.
If you’re a leader, a founder, or someone trying to grow through the noise, this episode will resonate.

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