Play Your Position with Mary Lou Kayser

Mary Lou Kayser: Gear up and take YOUR business, career, and life into the end zone with renewed energy, excitement and excellence!

Play Your Position is a podcast about showing up, playing hard and making no excuses about who you are in this game called life. Each episode features insights and inspiration from the people you admire: Entrepreneurs, Athletes, Musicians, Executives, Artists, Authors, Coaches, Veterans, Teachers, Students, and Small Business Owners whose stories teach us how to become better, make a bigger difference, and take our dreams into the end zone. Using Kick off, Move the Chains, and Touchdown to frame the conversation, host Mary Lou Kayser engages her guests about success and struggle, achievement and aspiration, mentorship and mastery, creativity and change, personal growth and persistence. Get ready to gear up and take the field of YOUR life, business and career with renewed energy, excitement, and excellence!

  • 59 minutes 9 seconds
    Wayne Mullins on Authentic Leadership, Human Connection, and Thriving in an AI World

    About today's amazing MVP, Wayne Mullins: Wayne sits down with MaryLou for a third time to talk about what's on so many minds these days --> AI, small business marketing, and getting attention from the right people in a crowded noisy world.

    It's not every day you get to sit down with someone who's seen—and shaped—so much in the world of marketing and leadership. Over the years, Wayne's insights have stood out not just because of his expertise, but because of his authenticity and willingness to challenge the status quo, especially as the world around us keeps changing at lightning speed. Whether he's sharing hard-won lessons from running his agency, talking about the importance of real human connection in a digital age, or opening up about the times things didn't go as planned, Wayne always brings a refreshing blend of honesty, wisdom, and warmth. There's a lot we can learn from him today!

    You can find Wayne on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fireyourself/

    Grab Wayne's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Full-Circle-Marketing-Transform-Evangelists/dp/B0BBSR658Q

    Listen to Wayne's previous conversations on PYP:

    270: Wayne Mullins on Why Your Website Doesn't Have to Be Pretty

    408: Wayne Mullins on Where Trust Goes, the Money Flows

    --->>> If this episode resonated, share it with someone who also thinks deeply about where we're headed. And if you'd like more conversations like this, make sure you're subscribed to the show.

    Get MaryLou's Book and Keep in Touch:

    It's Not You, It's the Algorithm Book

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Website: https://maryloukayser.com

    9 December 2025, 8:30 am
  • 55 minutes 12 seconds
    Matt Potts on Finding Leadership, Renewal, and Purpose in the Wild

    If you're looking for some fresh air—literally and figuratively—in your approach to leadership and life, you're in the right place. Today, MaryLou joins her friend Matt Potts: outdoor enthusiast, passionate guide, retired CPA, author of the forthcoming book "Wild Places," and all-around genuine soul. Matt's got a remarkable story, from his Kentucky childhood adventures to leading men (and women!) into the wild for connection, healing, and some good, old-fashioned unplugging.

    What is so great about Matt is how seamlessly he blends wisdom gleaned from the backcountry with real-world lessons—about courage, letting go, and the power of slowing down. The conversation wanders down trails both literal and metaphorical: topics include leadership, preparation, life transitions, and the importance of finding your own wild place, whether that's in the Rockies or your own backyard.

    So pour yourself something cozy, and settle in for a chat that might just inspire you to get outside—or, if nothing else, think a little differently about what it means to lead and to live fully. Here's this week's conversation with Matt Potts.

    If this episode resonated, share it with someone who also thinks deeply about where we're headed. And if you'd like more conversations like this, make sure you're subscribed to the show.

    Matt's book coming soon: https://wildplacesbook.com/

    Get the Book and Keep in Touch:

    It's Not You, It's the Algorithm

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Website: https://maryloukayser.com

    2 December 2025, 8:30 am
  • 14 minutes 53 seconds
    Stop Blaming the Bot

    People using AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude are noticing an interesting phenomenon: the responses to their prompts are always agreeable, even when users intentionally put in wrong information. Additionally, frustration with "AI workslop" and excessive bot interactions on popular social platforms like LinkedIn continue to distract people from moving forward with their work.

    What's going on and why do you need to be aware of this? What are the long-term consequences of too much AI content? In today's solo episode, MaryLou addresses these questions to uncover what's happening culturally on a bigger scale as more people, especially children, integrate AI tools into everyday life.

    If this episode resonated, share it with someone who also thinks deeply about where we're headed. And if you'd like more conversations like this, make sure you're subscribed to the show.

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Website: https://maryloukayser.com

    18 November 2025, 1:10 pm
  • 24 minutes 50 seconds
    How to Stay Human When Everything Is Changing: Leadership, Agency, and the Algorithm

    In this solo episode, MaryLou explores what it means to lead ourselves in a world where technology, AI, and rapid change are shaping daily lives. Drawing a surprising historical parallel to the Salem Witch Trials, she examines what happens when societies experience massive upheaval, and why so many of us are feeling overwhelmed right now.

    MaryLou shares a personal story about losing her phone at the airport and the raw emotional reaction that followed. That moment sparks a deeper reflection on our dependence on devices, the tension between convenience and autonomy, and the importance of asking:

    How much of my life am I handing over without noticing?

    This conversation is a call back to agency, personal responsibility, and servant leadership. It's about recognizing when the collective hysteria (whether about AI, politics, or culture) has gone too far and choosing to step back into clear-eyed ownership of your choices, your attention, and your life.

    Key Topics:

    -What historical mass hysteria can teach us about today

    -The emotional grip our devices have on us

    -Why we struggle to cope with massive change

    -Leadership as the ability to say "enough"

    -How to think for yourself when everyone is reacting

    -The relationship between self-inquiry and service to others

    Three Questions to Reflect On:
    1. Where am I reacting instead of choosing?

    2. How do my habits shape the quality of my days?

    3. Who benefits when I remember to serve—not just consume?

    Resources Mentioned:

    The Crucible by Arthur Miller

    It's Not You, It's the Algorithm by MaryLou Kayser

    If this episode resonated, share it with someone who also thinks deeply about where we're headed. And if you'd like more conversations like this, make sure you're subscribed to the show.

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Website: https://maryloukayser.com

    10 November 2025, 5:33 pm
  • 50 minutes 25 seconds
    Rob Kalwarowsky on Capitalizing on Chaos and Leading in Uncertain Times

    Does workplace chaos and uncertainty have you on edge these days? Leadership coach Rob Kalwarowski has the solution you need. In this powerful episode, discover:

    • A simple two-word technique to instantly reduce stress and improve decision-making

    • Why Gen Z is reimagining success beyond traditional career paths

    • Practical strategies to lead with more humanity and purpose

    • How to navigate professional challenges without burning out

    Rob shares his personal transformation from stressed engineer to thriving leadership coach, revealing breakthrough insights on managing chaos, building resilient teams, and creating a more fulfilling career. Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this episode offers actionable tools to help you stay grounded and innovative in turbulent times.

    Bonus: Grab Rob's free goal-setting tool at robkalwarowski.com/reason and start your personal leadership reset today!

    = = = = =

    Extra Stuff:

    Grab your copy of my latest book It's Not You, It's the Algorithm: How to Slow Your Scroll and Start Paying Attention to Your Life Again

    Dive into what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    21 October 2025, 7:30 am
  • 56 minutes 57 seconds
    Joel Goldberg on Leadership Lessons from the Broadcast Booth

    I'm excited about my guest today. A mutual connection and PYP MVP introduced us which goes to show how powerful and essential building relationships is to moving forward today. His name is Joel Goldberg, and he not only embodies the fundamental principles of this podcast, but he's also an exceptional human who values depth over hot takes and authentic conversation over soundbytes. He is a sports fan like I am, and makes his living as broadcaster with the Kansas City Royals baseball franchise. He also has a fantastic podcast called "Rounding the Bases" and two books: Small Ball Big Results and Small Ball Big Dreams. Oh ya, and he won an Emmy for his journalism work. Truly an All-Star!

    We definitely round the bases together, diving into how trust, authenticity, and purpose can transform your professional journey, whether you're in media, sports, or any field. Joel shares candid insights about navigating generational differences, maintaining integrity in a fast-paced digital world, and finding your true calling. This episode is a playbook for anyone seeking to understand leadership beyond titles - revealing how making others better is the ultimate measure of success. Perfect for professionals, aspiring leaders, and anyone looking to reinvent themselves with purpose and passion.

    Connect with Joel on his website: https://www.joelgoldbergmedia.com/

    On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelgoldbergkc/

    Listen to his podcast: https://www.joelgoldbergmedia.com/podcast

    = = = = =

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    21 July 2025, 1:10 pm
  • 55 minutes 14 seconds
    Jason Kruger on Designing a Financial Roadmap for Entrepreneurs

    What if the key to unlocking your business's true potential lies in understanding a language most entrepreneurs never learn?

    Today I'm talking with Jason Kruger, a financial expert who has navigated the complex world of business ownership, accounting, and strategic growth. Jason shares his journey from building and selling a successful analytics firm to helping entrepreneurs unlock their true potential by mastering their financial infrastructure.

    Jason reveals the often-overlooked secrets of scaling a business, the transformative power of understanding your numbers, and why human insight remains crucial in an increasingly AI-driven world.

    Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about what it takes to turn financial challenges into opportunities, this episode promises to be an eye-opening exploration of business success from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged victorious.

    Connect with Jason Kruger on his website: https://www.citrincooperman.com/

    On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kruger-a0b159b/

    Email: [email protected]

    = = = = =

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    3 July 2025, 12:33 pm
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    Eric Collett on Rewriting the Future of Aging, Brain Health, and Hope

    Eric Collett is the man who's rewriting the script on brain health and challenging everything we thought we knew about aging. Imagine a world where Alzheimer's isn't an inevitable decline, but a preventable condition. That's not science fiction - that's Eric's mission. A former memory care executive turned brain health revolutionary, Eric went from running a struggling care facility to developing a groundbreaking protocol that's helping people reverse cognitive decline - we're talking about Parkinson's patients doing jumping jacks after being wheelchair-bound, and dementia patients dramatically improving their cognitive scores.

    With a childhood dream of building flying machines and a professional journey that's taken him from caring for seniors to consulting with NFL athletes, Eric isn't just another health expert - he's a visionary who believes your brain's potential is limited only by your willingness to understand and nurture it. His company, A Mind for All Seasons, isn't just treating symptoms - they're uncovering the root causes of neurological challenges, from dental health to environmental toxins.

    If you've ever wondered whether cognitive decline is truly inevitable, or if you're ready to take control of your brain's future, this conversation will change everything you think you know about health, aging, and human potential.*

    Connect with Eric Collett on his website: https://amindforallseasons.com/

    On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-mind-for-all-seasons/

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    *The Play Your Position podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.

    20 June 2025, 11:56 am
  • 56 minutes 3 seconds
    John Chisum on Leadership, Creativity, and the Music Industry

    What's it like to be a legacy creative leader in the Nashville music scene? In today's episode, I'm diving into the world of music, leadership, and creative passion with John Chisum, a veteran songwriter, publisher, and mentor who has spent over 43 years in the music industry. From working with Christian music legends like Steven Curtis Chapman and the Gaither family to running Nashville Christian Songwriters, John has a wealth of wisdom about finding your authentic voice and navigating the complex landscape of creative entrepreneurship. He's not just about hit songs, but about empowering artists to understand their "why" and develop their unique talents. This conversation is perfect for: Musicians and aspiring artists; Leadership enthusiasts; and anyone seeking inspiration and authentic career advice in a world that often prioritizes fame over substance. Connect with John Chisum: On his website: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/ On his podcast: https://www.nashvillechristiansongwriters.com/podcast/

    On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnChisumOfficial

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    5 June 2025, 11:47 am
  • 52 minutes 23 seconds
    Geoff Woods on The AI-Driven Leader Revolution

    In this game-changing episode, Geoff Woods, author of "The AI Driven Leader," reveals how artificial intelligence can become your ultimate strategic thought partner. Geoff breaks down the myths, fears, and incredible potential of AI for leaders across all industries.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Discover how AI can elevate your strategic thinking in minutes

    • Learn the CRIT framework for powerful AI communication

    • Understand why AI is an enhancement, not a replacement, for human talent

    Highlights:

    • Geoff's transformative journey from traditional leadership to AI-powered strategy

    • Real-world case study: How AI helped a manufacturing CEO solve a critical debt restructuring challenge

    • Practical tips for overcoming AI fears and embracing technological innovation

    Memorable Quote:

    "Your greatest risk is not losing your job to AI, it's losing your job to someone who uses AI."

    Connect with Geoff Woods:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-woods-8534774/

    Website: https://AILeadership.com

    Book: "The AI Driven Leader" (Available on Amazon/Audible)

    Newsletter: Weekly AI leadership insights

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    28 May 2025, 7:30 am
  • 54 minutes 24 seconds
    James Brown on on Breaking Business Barriers: From Assembly Line to Entrepreneurial Success

    James Brown isn't just another business coach - he's a living testament to breaking through limitations. From being told he wasn't good enough as a young man to building a law practice that generated $8 million annually, James has transformed personal challenges into a powerful mission of helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses intelligently. In this riveting episode, James shares his journey from working on a General Motors assembly line while pursuing his law degree to becoming a leadership coach who helps business owners think differently. His approach is refreshingly data-driven: he teaches entrepreneurs how to manage by metrics, create sustainable systems, and most importantly, overcome the mental barriers that hold them back. With practical insights and hard-earned wisdom, James reveals how understanding your true goals - personally, professionally, and financially - is the first step to building a successful business. For listeners looking to dive deeper into James's transformative philosophy, he recommends two must-read books: "Unf*ck Yourself" by Gary Bishop, which challenges limiting beliefs, and "Energy Leadership" by Bruce Schneider, which helps entrepreneurs recognize and shift their mental energy levels. Want to learn more? Visit James's Business Accelerator Institute at https://businessaccelerator.institute/play where you can download his free guide on the top 10 mistakes that can destroy a business and even schedule a complimentary 30-minute discovery call.

    Extra Stuff:

    I'm exploring what it means to stay grounded in an accelerating world. You're welcome to follow along. For more depth, I share my best ideas at gobeyondthescroll.com

    AI is moving fast. That doesn't mean you have to feel behind.Explore my AI Literacy Training for smart people who want clarity, not chaos. Details at: https://maryloukayser.com/ai-literacy-training/

    Books: https://maryloukayser.com/books-by-marylou

    Get in Touch:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlkayser/

    Instagram: @maryloukayser

    Email: https://maryloukayser.com/contact-mary-lou-kayser/

    15 May 2025, 6:29 pm
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