#031: Leading with Character, Podcasting with Purpose

Talks That Shape Success

What if the real ROI in business isn’t just revenue, but reputation?This week’s guests are pros at the long game.

Jim Carlough leads sales with integrity at mPulse, building trust from the inside out. And podcasting OG Dave Jackson? He’s spent two decades reminding people that it’s not about downloads, it’s about connection.

Whether you’re leading a team or building a brand, this week’s episodes offer a reset on what really moves the needle.

Spotlight #1: Conversations That Grow
The Character Behind the Leader
Jim Carlough, Chief Sales Officer at mPulse

Jim’s leadership style is built on six pillars but none are more important than integrity. In this episode, he shares how a single, uncomfortable conversation shifted his approach to leadership forever.

From tough choices to daily habits, Jim’s story is a timely reminder that consistency, not charisma, is what earns trust. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with both humility and strength, this one’s for you.

🎤 Mic Drop Moment:
“I’d rather be known for my character than my charisma.”

🛠️ Try This:
Write down your top three leadership values—and check this week’s calendar against them. Are your actions matching your intentions?

🔥 Why He’d Slay a Podcast:
Jim’s blend of wisdom and authenticity makes every insight feel actionable. He’s a natural at translating values into vision and vision into growth.

Spotlight #2: Podjunction
Monetize the Audience, Not the Show
Dave Jackson, Founder of School of Podcasting

You don’t monetize a podcast, you monetize the audience. That’s Dave Jackson’s mantra, and in this episode, he unpacks exactly what that means.

From avoiding podfade to fitting your podcast into your life, Dave cuts through the noise with real talk on what it takes to succeed. Whether you’re new to podcasting or knee-deep in production, this one’s packed with wisdom. a stranger becomes a client because they “heard you on a podcast,” you know you’re doing something right.

🎤 Mic-Drop Moment:
“You can’t monetize dust.”

🛠️ Try This:
Rethink your ROI. Instead of downloads, ask: How many DMs? How much trust? How many warm leads? That’s where the gold is.

🎙️ Why It Matters:
Because podcasting is the start of the conversation, not the end. And when you build an audience that trusts you, the revenue follows. 

Sadaf’s Playbook: What Stood Out This Week

Jim reminded me that the smallest choices can be the most defining ones. That integrity isn’t a one-off. It’s who you are when no one’s watching.

And Dave? He challenged me to look at podcasting not as content, but as connection. Not what’s downloaded, but what’s remembered.

The question I’m walking away with:
Am I showing up to be seen or to serve?

🎧 Your Turn: One Word Takeaway

What’s your one-word takeaway from these conversations?

Reply and let me know your one word or feel free to share any thoughts on the episodes or the newsletter. I’d love to hear what’s resonating (and what’s not).

Thanks for reading,
Sadaf