#023: Leading with Humility + Storytelling That Drives Growth

How do you lead through challenges and grow your business with authenticity?

This week, I sat down with two incredible guests who’ve done exactly that.

Mike Schentrup, a retired police captain turned entrepreneur, shares leadership lessons from 25 years in law enforcement. Meanwhile Peter Murphy Lewis reveals how podcasting became his most powerful growth tool.

From leading SWAT teams to launching documentaries - these stories will spark something in you. Let’s dive in👇

Spotlight #1: Conversations That Grow
Leadership Lessons from 25 Years in Law Enforcement

Mike Schentrup led major investigations, SWAT teams, and special units at Gainesville PD before founding Advanced Police Concepts. Through it all, he discovered: true leadership is modeled, not mandated.

During COVID, Mike sent daily updates to his team—not to control, but to connect.

Biggest lesson? Humility builds trust. Admitting mistakes and choosing thoughtful responses over reactive ones can change everything—in the field, in business, at home.

🎤 Mic-Drop Moment: “The hardest person to lead is yourself - we give ourselves a thousand excuses daily.”

💡 Try This:
Instead of saying “no” right away, try: “Let me think about it.” It opens space for better conversations.

🎙️ Why He’d Slay a Podcast:
Mike’s blend of humility, empathy and lived experience would make his show a masterclass in authentic leadership.

Spotlight #2: Podjunction
How Storytelling Through Podcasting Drives Business Growth

Peter Murphy Lewis, fractional CMO and host of LTC Heroes, has made podcasting the centerpiece of his business strategy. Within months of launching, he was landing speaking gigs and filming a docuseries.

For Peter, podcasting isn’t about downloads. It’s about connections—building credibility, opening doors, and creating content that keeps working long after it’s published.

His secret? Focus on actionable, evergreen content and spotlight underserved industries.

💡 Pro Tip:
Find high-view, low-subscriber videos on YouTube in your niche—then redo them better. Instant traction.

🎙️ Why It Matters:
Podcasting cuts through the noise. In 15–20 minutes, it builds trust with high-ticket clients.

🚀 Steal This Move:
Record 5 practice episodes with people you know. Don’t worry about publishing—just build confidence.

Sadaf’s Playbook: Your Growth Nugget
Mike reminded me that leadership - whether it’s in a police unit, a remote team, or your own family - starts with humility and trust.

Peter showed how storytelling creates opportunity: for connection, for credibility and for growth.

Want to grow this week?

☕ Invite someone on your team for coffee.
🎙️ Or record a podcast with a friend—just for practice.

The full scoop’s waiting for you. Tune in and be inspired.

Your Turn: One Word Takeaway

What’s your biggest takeaway from this week’s stories?
Reply with just one word that captures what leadership or storytelling means to you.

I’ll feature the most popular word in next week’s newsletter! (And if your word sparks something powerful... maybe I’ll invite you on the show.)

Thanks for reading,
Sadaf