Marli Williams

Marli Williams, M.Ed.

Details

Welcome to The Marli Williams Podcast, where we invite you to join us on a transformative journey of epic leadership, facilitation, and speaking. I'm your host, Marli Williams, and together, we're on a mission to help you become the best leader, coach, or speaker you can be. Are you a transformational leader, coach, or speaker with a burning desire to create unforgettable experiences, retreats, workshops, and presentations that leave people awestruck every single time? If so, this podcast is tailor-made for you. Each week, we dive deep into the world of personal transformation, self-discovery, and the art of crafting epic experiences. Through thought-provoking insights, interviews with industry experts, and real-life success stories, we'll empower you to unlock your full potential and lead with impact. Whether you're looking to ignite your coaching practice, design life-changing retreats, or captivate your audience from the stage, we've got you covered. Our goal is to equip you with the tools, strategies, and inspiration you need to create magic in your leadership, coaching, and speaking endeavors. The Marli Williams Podcast is your go-to resource for: Inspiring stories of individuals who have transformed lives through leading epic events, workshops and retreats. Strategies for designing and delivering workshops and presentations that leave a lasting impact. Expert insights on personal development, communication, and leadership. Practical advice on building a thriving speaking and facilitation practice and leading epic retreats. Be sure to subscribe or follow wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us in our quest to lead together and transform lives. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and equipped to take your leadership, coaching, and speaking skills to the next level. Let's create epic experiences and make a lasting impact. Join me, Marli Williams, on The Marli Williams Podcast - Let's Lead Together.

Recent Episodes

SEP 16, 2026
The Power of Compersion: How to Experience More Joy & Connection in Relationships
What if there was a way to multiply your joy and strengthen every relationship in your life? This episode of the Marli Williams Podcast unlocks the secrets of compersion—a word originally coined in the polyamorous world but here related to broader audiences. Marli sits down with her partner Liz to discuss the radical act of celebrating others’ happiness as if it were your own. They both share vulnerable moments and clever strategies for overcoming jealousy, comparison, and the fear of missing out (FOMO). Rather than focusing on resentment or competition, they spotlight how empathy, curiosity, and secure attachment can open up deeper connection—whether at home, among friends, or in your community. From the origins of compersion to real-life tips for practicing it daily, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what’s possible in your personal and professional relationships. Ready to boost your happiness and emotional intelligence? This is a must-listen. Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they’ve always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli’s work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams Stay Connected to The Marli Williams Podcast Follow us on Instagram: @marliwilliams Our Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.com Hire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat! www.marliwilliams.com Really love the podcast and want to share it?? Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!
45 MIN
SEP 2, 2026
Living Boldly: What Dolly Parton Taught Us About Purpose and Impact
We are back baby! I took the summer off and we are diving back in with this fall kick-off episode about some leadership lessons I have learned from the late Dolly Parton. This episode is my reflection on key lessons from Dolly’s life: authentic self-expression, unwavering confidence, and the courage to live boldly. A key theme that emerged was the power of owning your story and gifts — without waiting for someone else to grant you permission. The episode explored how Dolly’s generosity, resilience, and humility impacted millions, not just through her music but also her philanthropy and infectious energy. I invite you to reflect on your own legacy, embrace your unique strengths, and lead with authenticity. Join the movement to honor Dolly by making your life meaningful and inspiring others every single day. Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they’ve always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli’s work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams Stay Connected to The Marli Williams Podcast Follow us on Instagram: @marliwilliams Our Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.com Hire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat! www.marliwilliams.com Really love the podcast and want to share it?? Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!
18 MIN
JUL 1, 2026
Replenish and Recharge: The Summer Mindset Shift Every Leader Needs
What if this was the summer you stopped measuring your life by how much you accomplished, and instead started measuring it by how fully you lived? For so many high achievers, summer comes and goes without ever truly slowing down. We tell ourselves we'll rest "when things calm down," but somehow that moment never arrives. Before we know it, we're heading into another season already feeling depleted. In this solo episode, I'm sharing why I believe your energy is your greatest leadership asset—and why learning to manage it intentionally is one of the most important skills you can develop. I'll introduce you to the idea of becoming the Chief Energy Officer of your own life and explain why rest, play, adventure, and joy aren't distractions from success—they're what make sustainable success possible. We'll explore: Why productivity isn't the same as fulfillment. How to stop living in constant output mode. The simple Energy Input/Output Loop that can help you recognize what's fueling you and what's draining you. Why your summer bucket list deserves a place on your calendar. Practical ways to recharge your energy so you can show up more fully for your work, your family, and yourself. My hope is that this episode gives you permission to choose yourself for a little while. To go hiking. To paddleboard. To camp. To read the book. To take the nap. To laugh more. To create moments that leave you feeling more alive. Because at the end of the day, success isn't just about what you accomplish. It's about the energy you have left to enjoy the life you're working so hard to build. If you're ready to stop running on empty and start living fully charged, this episode is for you. Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they’ve always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli’s work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams Stay Connected to The Marli Williams Podcast Follow us on Instagram: @marliwilliams Our Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.com Hire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat! www.marliwilliams.com Really love the podcast and want to share it?? Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!
21 MIN
MAY 6, 2026
Why Knowing Your Core Values Changes Everything in Life and Work
What if the reason you feel stuck, disconnected, or burned out isn’t your workload… but a lack of clarity on what truly matters to you? In this episode, I sit down with author and keynote speaker Brant to explore why knowing your core values—especially your non-negotiables—is the foundation for how you lead, live, and show up every single day. We dive into what’s really behind the “belief crisis” so many people are experiencing in their work and lives, and why so many of us are operating on autopilot without even realizing it. Together, we unpack the difference between values you like and values you live by, and how that gap impacts your energy, confidence, decision-making, and sense of fulfillment. We also explore the idea that belief is a skill you can build—and how strengthening it can transform the way you lead yourself and others. This conversation is filled with powerful questions, real stories, and fresh perspective on courage, connection, conviction, and compassion—and how these pillars shape a life of alignment and purpose. If you’ve ever questioned your direction, struggled to trust your decisions, or felt out of sync with your work or life, this episode will challenge you to stop “winging it” and start living with intention. Because purpose isn’t something you find—it’s something you choose. Tune in and reconnect with what truly matters. Brant's Bio: Brant Menswar is a Cornell-certified leadership expert, bestselling author, and founder of Black Sheep Foundry—but what makes him different is simple: He's built an approach that works. For over a decade, Brant has researched the force behind every high-performing team: belief. Not vague inspiration. Not surface-level engagement. Belief rooted in personal conviction — the kind that shapes how people lead, decide, and show up. He's helped over 100,000 people discover what they stand for.. He's worked with Netflix, Verizon, Microsoft, NASA, and Hilton. And he's brought that same research-backed framework to leadership stages nationwide—combining the precision of a Cornell-trained expert with the energy of a former national touring rock musician. Before keynotes, Brant spent two decades as a national recording artist with Big Kettle Drum, earning Billboard recognition and SiriusXM airplay. He learned one thing on stage that changed everything: belief is contagious. When a crowd believes, they move. When a team believes, they perform. The result? Leaders who make decisions with conviction. Teams that trust each other. Cultures that perform under pressure. Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they’ve always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli’s work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams Stay Connected to The Marli Williams Podcast Follow us on Instagram: @marliwilliams Our Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.com Hire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat! www.marliwilliams.com Really love the podcast and want to share it?? Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!
53 MIN
APR 15, 2026
From People Pleasing to Authenticity: Transforming the Way We Connect
What if the quality of every relationship in your life - personally and professionally - was a direct reflection of the relationship you have with yourself? In this week's episode, I sit down with relationship expert and author Barb Betts to explore what it really means to move from people pleasing to authentic connection. Together, we unpack how self-connection, emotional intelligence, and the courage to be seen shape the way we lead, love, and show up in the world. We dive into the power of visibility, vulnerability, and relatability - and why “stop hiding” might be the most important leadership advice you’ll ever hear. From navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome to shifting from comparison to curiosity, this conversation is an invitation to rethink the way you build relationships and the legacy you’re creating through them. If you’ve ever found yourself performing, protecting, or trying to be who you think others need you to be, this episode will challenge you to come home to yourself. Because true connection isn’t built through perfection - it’s built through authenticity. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, speaker, or someone craving deeper, more meaningful relationships, this conversation will spark new awareness and leave you reflecting on how you want to show up moving forward. Press play and discover what becomes possible when you stop people pleasing - and start relating from who you really are. Barb Betts Bio Barb Betts is an International Keynote Speaker, CEO, and author of The Relationship Advantage, teaching leaders and professionals how to drive growth through authentic, trust-based relationships. Over the past 23 years, she has built businesses and led high-performing teams, including sustaining a seven-figure business for more than a decade with no ad spend and no cold strategies. A respected industry leader within the largest trade association in North America, she has worked with organizations including Fidelity and LVMH. Her message on confidence, authenticity, and human connection has been featured in Us Weekly, ABC and KTLA and her high-energy, actionable keynotes inspire audiences to connect with confidence and lead with authenticity. Marli Williams is an international keynote speaker, master facilitator, and joy instigator who has worked with organizations such as Nike, United Way, Doordash, along with many colleges and schools across the United States. She first fell in love with transformational leadership as a camp counselor when she was 19 years old. After getting two degrees and 15 years of leadership training, Marli decided to give herself permission to be the “Professional Camp Counselor” she knew she was born to be. Now she helps incredible people and organizations stop waiting for permission and start taking bold action to be the leaders and changemakers they’ve always wanted to be through the power of play and cultivating joy everyday. She loves helping people go from stuck to STOKED and actually created her own deck of inspirational messages called StokeQuotes™ which was then followed by The Connect Deck™ to inspire more meaningful conversations. Her ultimate mission in the world is to help others say YES to themselves and their big crazy dreams (while having fun doing it!) To learn more about Marli’s work go to www.marliwilliams.com and follow her on Instagram @marliwilliams Stay Connected to The Marli Williams Podcast Follow us on Instagram: @marliwilliams Our Website: www.podcast.marliwilliams.com Hire Marli to Speak at your next event, conference, workshop or retreat! www.marliwilliams.com Really love the podcast and want to share it?? Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Let's Lead Together and reach more people - we appreciate your support!!
50 MIN