On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Charlie Wetzel, a prolific author who's written over 120 books—including several New York Times bestsellers. Charlie shared his incredible journey from struggling writer to collaborating with John Maxwell for more than three decades, unpacking the power of writing, leadership, and authentic communication. We discussed why every leader should develop their writing skills, the impact of AI in publishing, and Charlie’s mission to coach aspiring authors.

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 "Prolific Journey in Writing"

06:38 "Overcoming Writing's First Challenge"

08:27 First Article Published Journey

11:22 "Writing: Environment and Structure"

14:40 "Writing and Speaking Effectively"

20:03 AI: A Mix of Mediocrity

21:42 AI in Creativity and Content

26:53 "Human Touch Matters More"

28:30 "Build Teams Over Dinner"

31:12 "Author Coaching and Mastermind Program"

34:51 "Coaching Writers for a Decade"

40:42 "Five Levels of Leadership"

43:28 "Unlocking Doors Through Reading"

45:19 "Embracing Simplicity in Technology"

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Here are 3 key takeaways:

• Writing clarifies thinking and expands influence: As Charlie Wetzel says, “You really don’t know what you think about a subject until you’ve written it down.” Leaders who learn to write effectively not only become clearer communicators—they also gain the power to impact audiences far beyond their immediate sphere.

• AI can’t replace human storytelling: While technology provides new tools, Charlie cautions that AI-generated content lacks authenticity, soul, and the unique perspective that only you can offer. If you want your message to resonate—especially in books or courses—your personal experiences and voice matter.

• Human connection matters more than ever: In today’s tech-heavy environment, simple gestures—like handwritten notes, phone calls, or face-to-face conversations—are becoming even more meaningful. As Charlie observes, real leadership is rooted in personal touch and genuine relationships.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

Charlie's LinkedIn

Charlie's Website

https://learn.charliewetzel.com/courses/answerthecall

Book Recommendations

The Five Levels of Leadership

The Master Plan of Evangelism

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Alan Lazaros, co-founder of Next Level University, to dive deep into the real essentials of leadership. We talk about the power of personal development, why human connection matters more than ever in a tech-driven world, and how classic principles still drive results even as tools change. If you want to elevate your leadership, master communication, and keep growing—this conversation is packed with insight you don’t want to miss. Listen now and take your impact to the next level!

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 "Personal Development Beyond School"

05:11 "Coaching, Relationships, and Punctuation"

09:28 "Timeless Gratitude in Business"

13:04 "Learning, Reflection, and Innovation"

14:58 "Leadership: Growth, Not Manipulation"

19:12 "Human Connection Amid Tech Growth"

21:38 "Leadership: Influence vs. Manipulation"

25:18 "Constantly Improve and Connect"

28:20 "Global Influence Through Technology"

30:20 "One Message for Educators"

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Here are 3 key takeaways from our discussion:

• Human Connection Will Always Win: As Alan Lazaros pointed out, in an increasingly tech-driven world, genuine human connection and community are the differentiators. People crave belonging and real interaction—no algorithm can replace that.

• Personal Development Is Non-Negotiable: Our education system teaches plenty about professional success, but as Alan Lazaros shared, “personal development is not a part of it, whereas professional development is.” Skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and self-awareness are must-haves for 21st-century leadership.

• Tech Is a Tool, Not a Crutch: Embrace innovation and use platforms like ChatGPT to learn and level up, but never outsource your authenticity. Let tech enhance your message, not replace your voice.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

LinkedIn

Website

Book Recommendation

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, we sat down with Roggen Frick, who started operating heavy equipment at just three years old and turned hands-on skills like welding into a thriving business. Roggen shared his journey from college decisions to launching Bare Iron Works, the challenges of project management in construction, and the critical leadership lesson of listening to experts on the ground. We also took a closer look at prevailing wages in construction, breaking down what it really means for workers and companies. If you're passionate about leadership and the realities of building a business from the ground up, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

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Download your free episode guide here!

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00:00 From Welding Hobby to Business

04:17 Dirt Bike Crash Alters Path

09:36 Endless Dirt Relocation Tale

12:47 Understanding Leadership Through Listening

16:27 Prevailing Wages and Labor Costs

17:51 Construction Laws and Industry Impact

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Top three takeaways:

• Embrace Hands-On Learning Roggen Frick's practical experience—from operating machinery as a child to welding in high school—shows the power of learning by doing. Sometimes, hands-on skills are just as valuable as what’s learned in the classroom!

• Adaptability Drives Growth Whether it was pivoting from running a college business to finishing his degree and working in commercial construction, or navigating complex project challenges, adaptability was key in Roggen Frick's success.

• Leadership is Listening Managing projects with diverse teams taught Roggen Frick to listen to experts in each trade—recognizing that strong leadership means valuing your team’s expertise and fostering a collaborative approach.

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Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership? Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.

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Links

LinkedIn

Website

Book Recommendation