It Matters Podcast

103 - Where Is Your Best Going?

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter encourages listeners to reflect on where they’re investing their best energy, time, and focus as the year ends. Emphasizing that busyness doesn’t equal meaningful productivity, he urges a personal audit of priorities and challenges listeners to realign their efforts with what truly matters. Practical steps are offered to help redirect energy from draining distractions to core values and important relationships, inspiring intentional living and purposeful change before the new year begins.

102 - Your Story Matters

In this episode of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the transformative power of sharing personal stories. Drawing from his own experiences as a father of two children with a rare liver disease, Walter emphasizes how authentic storytelling fosters empathy, connection, and hope. He encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and share both their struggles and victories, reminding them that every story has the potential to inspire and help others. The episode motivates listeners to lead with authenticity, break down barriers, and recognize the profound impact their stories can have on themselves and their communities.

101 - Being In Tension

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores intentional leadership and the importance of "living in tension." The episode highlights how effective leaders honor their values, embrace discomfort, and navigate tensions like discipline versus desire, boundaries versus people-pleasing, and focus versus distraction. Listeners are encouraged to set clear intentions, lean into discomfort, and reflect on their growth. The episode offers practical advice for developing a purposeful mindset, elevating leadership skills, and using tension as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

100 - Leaders Who Lead Well, Live Well

In episode 100 of The It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez reflects on his journey to this milestone and shares key lessons about leadership and personal well-being. He emphasizes that leading well starts with living well—being healthy in mind and body, living authentically in alignment with one’s values, and embracing humanity through relationships and self-compassion. Walter encourages listeners to assess their own well-being and make intentional changes, highlighting that flourishing as a leader begins with caring for oneself. The episode is a thoughtful pause to inspire growth and intentional leadership.

099 - Ink It

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez discusses the crucial habit of writing things down. Explaining the concept he refers to as 'Ink It', Walter highlights the neurological benefits of putting pen to paper, such as activating the reticular activating system (RAS), improving memory, and bridging the left and right hemispheres of the brain. He provides examples from successful leaders and companies to underscore the transformative power of writing. Walter encourages listeners to make writing a part of their daily routines, emphasizing how it can bring clarity, focus, and reduce anxiety. Ultimately, he aims to inspire leaders to harness this simple yet powerful practice to enhance their effectiveness and lead with intention.

098 - A CRACK of Change

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores how to achieve lasting personal and leadership transformation from live events like workshops and retreats. He introduces the "CRACK" acronym—Commit, Reflect, Act, Change, Keep Going—as a practical framework to help listeners turn event inspiration into real, sustainable change. Walter emphasizes that true transformation happens when you bring lessons home, apply them consistently, and persist through challenges, ultimately inspiring growth in yourself and those around you.

097 - Leaders Take The Stairs

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the metaphor "leaders take the stairs" to highlight the importance of discipline, hard work, and humility in leadership. He emphasizes that true leaders avoid shortcuts, lead by example, support their teams, and foster a positive environment. The episode encourages leaders to be present, listen, rest, and continuously grow, inspiring transformation in themselves and others. The overall message is to lead with intention, humility, and vision, creating lasting impact and a culture where everyone thrives.

096 - Look, Listen, Learn

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores the vital role of communication in effective leadership. Emphasizing the practice of “watching game film,” he encourages leaders to review and analyze their own speaking performances to identify strengths and areas for growth. Listeners are urged to approach self-assessment with humility, celebrate progress, and make intentional improvements. The episode highlights the importance of preparation, honest self-reflection, and continuous learning as essential habits for leaders seeking to enhance their communication skills and overall leadership impact.

095 - Branding Yourself with Sarah Van Dusen from High Level Marketing

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez interviews Sarah Van Dusen of High Level Marketing. Sarah shares her journey from graffiti art to marketing expertise, offering practical advice for business leaders on building authentic brands, leveraging Google Business Profile, and overcoming self-doubt. She emphasizes consistency, clear calls to action, and the power of storytelling. The discussion covers current marketing trends, the importance of community engagement, and leading with kindness. Sarah’s insights empower entrepreneurs to embrace authenticity, stay adaptable, and seek support, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to grow their business.
Sarah Van Dusen, a Google-certified SEO expert, social media strategist, and marketing mentor with over 20 years of experience helping businesses across Western Canada cut through the noise and get noticed. She's been consulted by the Canadian Senate on digital policy, and has taught at NAIT, Grant MacEwan, and the U of A—empowering business owners with the secrets to SEO, website optimization, and social media success. Trusted by Edmonton's top entrepreneurs, Sarah understands the hustle, the challenges, and the importance of making every marketing dollar count.
Connect with Sarah
sarah@highlevelyeg.caIG: @highlevelyegFacebook: High Level Marketing Inc.
Connect with Walter
www.theleaderco.caIG: @theleaderco.incFacebook: The Leader Co.

094 - Becoming a Leader: The Journey Ahead with Armando Perez

In this episode of the It Matters podcast, Walter Perez welcomes a special guest, his son Armando Perez. They discuss the importance of leadership, how to become a leader, and what leadership means. Armando shares his aspirations for the future and discusses his experience playing sports and managing a rare liver disease. Walter provides valuable insights on leadership, including the importance of practicing, supporting teammates, and being honest about one's challenges. This conversation offers a heartfelt and educational look at developing leadership skills from a young age.