Finding The Upside

Most of us don't stay silent because we don't care. We stay silent because we don't want to make things worse, create conflict, or say the wrong thing. But what if our silence is communicating more than we realize? In this episode of Finding the Upside, and as part of the series “Living Your Values”, I explore the hidden cost of staying quiet—both in our personal lives and as leaders. From the workplace to our communities, I examine how the moments we choose not to speak can shape culture, relationships, and the values we claim to stand for. I also share why courage isn't always loud or dramatic. More often, it's found in the ordinary choices we make every day to stand beside someone, ask a difficult question, or simply refuse to look away. If you've ever wrestled with whether to speak up or stay silent, this conversation is an invitation to reflect on what your choices are communicating—and how one act of courage can create space for others to do the same. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:44] Why Silence Is Never Truly Neutral [5:26] The Culture Leaders Create by What They Tolerate [8:16] How Relationships Make Courage Personal [11:19] The Hidden Cost of Staying Silent [15:19] What's the Upside? Why Courage Is Contagious Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE. Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

In today’s special ENCORE episode of Finding the Upside, I sit down with the icon, the legend, Les Brown for a conversation that unfolds with honesty, warmth, and a depth that only he can bring. We talk about how quickly the world is shifting, especially with technology and AI, and how important it is to stay curious, adaptable, and willing to grow. What struck me most was how aligned we were in seeing change not as something to fear, but as something that invites us to become more capable, more creative, and more intentional in our lives. Les shares stories from his early career and personal life that reveal how often our path is shaped by unexpected turns. His experiences reminded me that even the moments that feel disruptive or difficult can open the door to a direction we never imagined but were meant to walk. We also explore leadership in today’s world, how essential it is to truly understand people, to listen past the noise, and to create environments where individuals feel seen and supported. Throughout our conversation, I found myself reflecting on my own leadership journey and the realization that impact isn’t reserved for big moments; it happens in the everyday choices we make, in how we show up, and in how we treat the people around us. This exchange with Les is filled with insights about navigating life during times of uncertainty, staying grounded in who we are, and finding a meaningful way forward. It’s a conversation that left me both reflective and energized, and I’m excited to share it with you. It all starts right now! Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:49] We Are Going Through Creative Destruction [6:20] What Kind Of Impact Do You Want To Have? [14:30] When There’s Hope In The Future, It Give You Power In The Present [15:14] The Biggest Challenge Leaders Face [16:49] Why It’s Important To Face Things With Optimism and Faith [19:11] Even A Broken Clock Is Right Twice A Day Episode Show Notes Les Brown | Instagram Les Brown | Facebook Les Brown | Youtube Les Brown | LinkedIn Les Brown | Website Books by Les Brown: You've Got to be Hungry: The Greatness Within to Win Live Your Dreams: Say Yes to Life The Power of Purpose: How to Create the Life You Always Wanted It's Not Over Until You Win: How to Become the Person You Always Wanted to Be No Matter What the Obstacle Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. Unlock your leadership potential with the Rebel Leader Assessment! Take my Leadership Skills evaluator quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening or watching the podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page. Laws Of Success: 12 Laws That Turn Dreams Into Reality

You don't need all the answers to lead. We're living in a world that rewards certainty. The loudest voices often sound the most convincing, we're expected to have instant opinions, and leaders can feel enormous pressure to project confidence—even when the path ahead is anything but clear. But here’s the thing…certainty isn't the goal. In this episode of Finding the Upside, and as part of the series “Leading Through The Noise”, I explore why some of the most effective leaders aren't the ones who claim to have all the answers—they're the ones who help others navigate uncertainty with honesty, curiosity, and hope. I share why complexity deserves more than quick conclusions, how intellectual humility builds trust, and why moving forward often requires courage before clarity. If you've ever felt the pressure to know exactly what's next, this conversation is a reminder that leading, your team or yourself, isn't about KNOWING the future. It's about helping people move forward when the future is still UNFOLDING. Here's a quick look at what you can expect from today's episode... [1:28] Why We're Addicted to Certainty [3:52] Leadership Isn't About Predicting the Future [5:37] Curiosity Is a Leadership Superpower [8:28] Why Honest Leaders Build More Trust [11:21] Clarity Comes After Movement, Not Before [12:27] What's the Upside? Leading Without All the Answers Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE. Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

Welcome to Season 6 of Finding the Upside. Every season begins with possibility. But this one feels different. As I reflect on nearly 200 episodes, one thing has become clear: people don't need more information—they're hungry for wisdom, perspective, and meaningful conversations that help them navigate an increasingly complex world. This season, we're asking bigger questions than ever before. Together, we'll explore leadership in the age of AI, the future of work, belonging, purpose, and what it truly means to create impact in our organizations, our communities, and our lives. I'll also take you behind the scenes of an exciting new chapter for MDR Brands, sharing stories from our partnerships with the New Jersey Devils, New York Jets, and New York Red Bulls, and the leadership lessons unfolding along the way. Most importantly, this season is an invitation. Not just to listen, but to participate. To challenge your assumptions, start meaningful conversations, and discover new perspectives that help you show up and lead with greater humanity and purpose. Thank you for being part of this community. Whether this is your first episode or you've been here since the beginning, I'm so grateful you're here. Welcome to the next chapter of Finding the Upside. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [1:02] Looking Back to Season 5: The Leadership That We Need NOW [2:43] Why We Need Better Questions, Not More Information [3:56] What's Coming in Season Six [7:20] Behind the Scenes with MDR Brands & Professional Sports Partnerships [10:05] Growing Our Impact Through the Give Back Program [11:29] An Invitation to Be Part of the Conversation Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE. Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.

People remember how you made them feel. That is the foundation in everything. When we think of hospitality, most of us picture hotels, restaurants, or great customer service. But I’m proposing that hospitality is actually one of the most powerful—and overlooked—leadership skills we have. In this episode of Finding the Upside, and as part of the series “The Connection Revolution”, I discuss why leadership isn't just about strategy, decision-making, or driving results. It's about creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and like they truly belong. From the workplace to our everyday relationships, the way we make people feel shapes trust, culture, and ultimately the impact we have on others. As technology transforms the way we work and connect, genuine human connection has never been more valuable. Join me as we look at how small, intentional moments of hospitality can become one of the greatest leadership advantages we have—and why helping people feel welcome may be the key to helping them thrive. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode… [0:18] Why Hospitality Is One of Leadership's Most Overlooked Skills [4:25] Culture Begins with How People Feel [7:48] The Leadership Question Everyone Is Quietly Asking: Do I Matter Here? [12:25] Why Human Connection Matters More in the Age of AI [15:25] What's the Upside? Creating Places Where People Thrive Episode Show Notes Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook⁠ Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Website Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Youtube If you’re ready to dive deeper and level up your learning beyond the Finding the Upside episodes, sign up for the Business Leaders Hub! Get access to exclusive content, resources and tools, and a community built to help you accelerate to the next level. It’s all waiting for you HERE. Want to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. What kind of leader are you? Unlock your leadership potential with The Rebel Leader Assessment! Take the Leadership Skills Quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening to our podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.