Whiskey, Jazz and Leadership

Carrying the Torch: DeVone Holt on Preserving Muhammad Ali’s Legacy and Leading with Compassion (Part 2)

Podcast Description:In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his inspiring conversation with DeVone  Holt, President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center. DeVone  shares the immense responsibility of preserving and amplifying the legacy of Muhammad Ali, a global icon who continues to inspire generations nearly a decade after his passing.
 
This episode dives into the leadership principles that defined Ali’s life, including emotional intelligence, respect, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. DeVone  also discusses the challenges of leading an organization that represents such a monumental figure and how the Muhammad Ali Center is fostering compassion and unity in a polarized world.
 
Listen in as DeVone  Reflects on:
The Weight of Leadership: What it means to lead an organization dedicated to Muhammad Ali’s legacy.
Global Impact: How Ali became one of the most beloved and recognizable figures in history.
Emotional Intelligence: How Ali’s ability to connect with people made him a leader both in and out of the ring.
Compassion and Unity: The Muhammad Ali Center’s work to combat polarization through the Ali Index.
Leadership Lessons: Why trusting your instincts and learning from failure are essential for growth.
 
What you drinking?Galen pours a glass of Luxe Row Copper Top, a bold 118.4-proof bourbon exclusive to the Luxe Row Distillery in Kentucky. Meanwhile, DeVone  keeps it clean with water, staying sharp and focused as he shares his insights on leadership and legacy.
 
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
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The Greatest of All Time: DeVone Holt on Leadership Lessons from Muhammad Ali (Part 1)

Podcast Description:In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with DeVone  Holt, President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, to explore the life and legacy of one of the most iconic figures in history. Muhammad Ali was more than a boxer—he was a global symbol of hope, resilience, and leadership.
 
DeVone  shares his own incredible journey, from economic development to leading one of the largest cultural centers dedicated to celebrating the life of a Black man. Together, they discuss the leadership lessons we can learn from Ali, the importance of mentorship, and how Ali’s principles continue to inspire generations.
 
Listen in as DeVone  Reflects on:
The Journey to Leadership: How DeVone ’s career prepared him to lead the Muhammad Ali Center.
The Legacy of Muhammad Ali: Why Ali was more than a boxer and how his principles resonate today.
The Power of Mentorship: How Ali’s mentors and supporters helped him become the greatest of all time.
The ABCs of Success: Galen’s framework for building a team of advisors, accountability buddies, and sponsors.
Leadership and Faith: Why great leaders know their strengths and surround themselves with the right people.
 
What you drinking?
Galen sets the stage with Luxe Row Copper Top Bourbon, a rare distillery-exclusive whiskey that packs a punch at 118.4 proof. Bold, complex, and unapologetically rich in flavor, it’s the perfect pour for a conversation honoring one of history’s most iconic and dynamic figures. On the other hand, DeVone  keeps it sharp and intentional with water and black coffee—a reflection of his disciplined mindset and focused approach to leadership. Together, their choices mirror the balance of boldness and clarity that defines this inspiring dialogue.
 
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Mentorship, Medicine, and the Power of Networks: Dr. David Wilkes on Building the Future of Healthcare (Part 2)

Podcast Description:In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his enlightening conversation with the legendary Dr. David Wilkes, a trailblazing physician, researcher, and leader in academic medicine. Dr. Wilkes dives deep into the critical role of mentorship, the importance of building networks, and how leaders can create opportunities for the next generation.
Dr. Wilkes shares personal stories of how mentorship shaped his career, the value of having a team of advisors, and why seeing role models is essential for success. He also discusses the challenges facing the future of medicine and why he’s doubling down on his commitment to open doors for others. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of mentorship and sponsorship.
 
Listen in as Dr. Wilkes Reflects on:
The Importance of Mentorship: Why having mentors and sponsors is critical for career success.
The Power of Networks: How being part of a strong network can open doors and create opportunities.
The ABCs of Success: Galen’s framework for building a team of advisors, accountability buddies, and sponsors.
Grace Under Fire: Lessons in leadership from Colin Powell and other role models.
The Future of Medicine: Why mentorship and advocacy are more important than ever in today’s climate.
 
What you drinking?Galen pours a glass of @remusbourbon Remus Gatsby Reserve, a 15-year straight bourbon whiskey clocking in at 104.9 proof, reserved for only the most special occasions. Meanwhile, Dr. Wilkes enjoys Jefferson Reserve Cabernet Cask Finish, a bourbon aged in Cabernet barrels that delivers a unique and extraordinary flavor profile.
 
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Improvising Leadership: Dr. David Wilkes on Medicine, Mentorship, and Mastery (Part 1)

Podcast Description:In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with the extraordinary Dr. David Wilkes, a renowned physician, researcher, and leader in academic medicine. With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Wilkes has been at the forefront of medical education, research, and leadership, mentoring countless physicians and shaping the future of healthcare.
 
Dr. Wilkes shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a planned integrated community to becoming a pulmonary critical care physician, groundbreaking researcher, and former Dean of the University of Virginia School of Medicine. This episode explores his passion for mentorship, his groundbreaking discoveries in lung transplant rejection, and the importance of improvisation in leadership.
 
Listen in as Dr. Wilkes Reflects on:
His Journey: From a childhood shaped by civil rights activism to leading in academic medicine.
Mentorship and Legacy: Why opening doors for the next generation is his most important work.
Groundbreaking Research: His discovery of the role of type five collagen in lung transplant rejection.
Improvisation in Leadership: Why adaptability and action are essential for effective leadership.
The Influence of Jazz: How the improvisational nature of jazz mirrors the challenges of leadership.
 
What you drinking?
Galen reaches for the @remusbourbon Remus Gatsby Reserve, a 15-year straight bourbon whiskey clocking in at 104.9 proof. With hints of honey, dried fruits, and a touch of pepper, this top-shelf bourbon is the perfect match for a conversation of this caliber. Meanwhile, Dr. Wilkes enjoys Jefferson Reserve Bourbon, aged in Cabernet barrels, offering a unique and extraordinary flavor profile that reflects his refined taste and thoughtful approach to leadership.
 
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!
 

P3 Purpose Formula: Annie Meehan on Living by Choice, Not Circumstance (Part 2)

Podcast Description:In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his inspiring conversation with Annie Meehan, motivational speaker, author, and resilience expert. Annie dives deeper into her P3 Purpose Formula, a transformative approach to discovering your purpose by turning pain into passion and ultimately into purpose.
 
This episode is packed with actionable insights on how to live intentionally, lead authentically, and make decisions that align with your values. Annie shares how her invisible board of directors, including names like Oprah Winfrey, Brene Brown, and Simon Sinek, guides her in making tough decisions. She also opens up about her faith, her journey to earning the prestigious CSP designation, and how she uses her story to inspire others to live by choice, not by chance or circumstance.
 
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The P3 Purpose Formula: How to turn pain into passion and purpose.
Living Intentionally: Why every day is a choice to be amazing.
The Invisible Board of Directors: How mentors like Oprah Winfrey and Simon Sinek inspire her decision-making.
Faith and Authenticity: How Annie’s faith shapes her leadership and connection with others.
Earning the CSP Designation: What it means to achieve the highest distinction in professional speaking.
 
What you drinking?Galen pours a glass of Ridgemont 1792 Small Batch Bourbon (93 proof), a smooth and foundational whiskey that perfectly complements the depth of this conversation. Meanwhile, Annie sips on honey and ginger kombucha, a refreshing and healthy choice that reflects her commitment to living with intention and balance.
 
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

Rewrite Your Story: Annie Meehan on Resilience, Leadership, and Living with Purpose (Part 1)

Podcast Description:In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with the inspiring Annie Meehan, a motivational speaker, author, and resilience expert. Annie’s journey from a childhood filled with adversity—moving 83 times, growing up in poverty, and overcoming personal loss—to becoming a global speaker and author of 11 books is nothing short of extraordinary.
Annie shares her powerful story of self-leadership, intentionality, and the decision to rewrite the narrative of her life. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how to turn pain into purpose, embrace self-leadership, and take the steps necessary to create a life of meaning and impact.
 
Listen in as Annie Reflects on:
Her Journey: From a childhood of chaos and poverty to becoming a global speaker and author.
Self-Leadership: How to take control of your life and rewrite your story.
The Power of Intentionality: Why living with purpose and planning your life is key to success.
Turning Pain into Purpose: How to use life’s challenges as fuel for growth and impact.
The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Why taking action is critical before self-doubt takes over.
 
What you drinking?Galen brings out the classic Ridgemont 1792 Small Batch Bourbon for this conversation—a smooth, versatile favorite that’s as rich in character as the stories being shared. Whether sipped neat or mixed into a cocktail, it’s a whiskey that sets the perfect tone for meaningful dialogue. Meanwhile, Annie keeps it fresh and vibrant with a glass of Honey and Ginger Kombucha, a bold and energizing choice that mirrors her zest for life and unwavering commitment to living with purpose and vitality. Together, their drinks are as dynamic and inspiring as the conversation itself!
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

Accidental Leaders and the Art of Mastery: Olu Burrell on Vulnerability, Confidence, and Jazz (Part 2)

Podcast Description:In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his thought-provoking conversation with leadership expert and lifelong learner, Olu Burrell . This episode dives deep into the challenges of leadership, the importance of vulnerability, and the skills required to transition from being an exceptional individual contributor to an effective leader.
Olu shares eye-opening statistics about accidental managers, explores the fears that hold leaders back, and explains why vulnerability and intellectual humility are essential for growth. Drawing parallels between leadership and jazz, Olu highlights the importance of improvisation, curiosity, and creating safe spaces for innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you elevate your leadership game.
Listen in as Olu Reflects on:
Accidental Leadership: Why 86% of leaders fall into their roles without proper preparation and how to change that.
The Power of Vulnerability: Why admitting “I don’t know” can be a leader’s greatest strength.
Confidence and Fear: How fear of failure, regret, and rejection impact leadership and how to overcome them.
The Jazz of Leadership: Why great leaders, like great jazz musicians, must improvise and adapt to unexpected changes.
Music and Creativity: How jazz fuels creativity and helps leaders unlock their full potential.
What you drinking?Galen pours a glass of Eagle Rare 10-Year Bourbon, a smooth and rare whiskey that reflects the depth and richness of this conversation. Meanwhile, Olu raises a glass of Uncle Nearest 1884, a whiskey with a legacy as powerful as the insights shared in this episode.
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

The Solution is Leadership: Olu Burrell on Mastery, Curiosity, and Collective Growth (Part 1)

Podcast Description:In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham sits down with the dynamic and insightful Olu Burrell , a leadership expert, speaker, and lifelong learner. From the moment Galen first saw Olu on stage, he knew this was someone who brought a rare combination of practical experience and academic depth to the art of leadership.
Olu shares his journey of self-discovery, from realizing his name is an anagram for "solution" to becoming a master of both the practical and theoretical aspects of leadership. This episode dives into the importance of balancing experience with education, the power of curiosity, and how leaders can create environments where innovation and collaboration thrive.
Listen in as Olu Reflects on:
The Power of Mastery: Why combining practical experience with academic knowledge is essential for effective leadership.
Curiosity Over Judgment: How adopting a curious mindset can lead to better outcomes and stronger teams.
The Jazz of Leadership: Why great leaders, like great jazz musicians, must improvise and adapt to unexpected changes.
Creating Safe Spaces: How leaders can foster environments where experimentation and innovation are encouraged.
Collective Heroism: Why true leadership is about lifting others and growing together.
What you drinking?Galen pairs this conversation with Eagle Rare 10-Year Bourbon, a whiskey that’s not overly expensive but rich in quality and hard to find—just like Olu’s unique ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. Meanwhile, Olu raises a glass of Uncle Nearest 1884, a smooth and versatile whiskey that perfectly complements his thoughtful and intentional approach to leadership.
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

From the Field to the Boardroom: Leadership Lessons with Melvin Gilliam (Part 2)

Podcast Description:In Part 2 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham continues his engaging conversation with Oklahoma sports icon and Spirit Bank Vice President, Melvin Gilliam Sr. Known for his incredible athleticism and leadership on the field and court, Melvin shares how those same principles have shaped his success in the corporate world.
This episode dives deep into the mindset of a leader, the importance of leading by example, and the responsibility that comes with being "the guy" others look up to. Melvin reflects on his journey from being a standout athlete to mentoring the next generation, offering practical advice on work ethic, decisiveness, and handling challenges with grace. Whether you’re a sports fan, a leader, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and unforgettable stories.
Listen in as Melvin Reflects on:
Leading by Example: Why hard work and showing up in the tough moments define true leadership.
The Power of Responsibility: How to embrace the pressure of being the one others rely on.
Lessons from the Big Eight: What it was like to compete against some of the best teams and players in history.
Mentoring the Next Generation: Why teaching financial literacy and life skills is critical for today’s youth.
The Importance of Work Ethic: Why talent alone isn’t enough—you have to put in the work to succeed.
What you drinking?Galen raises a Kentucky Mule made with Yellowstone Single Barrel Bourbon (119 proof) and Bundaberg Ginger Beer—a bold and refreshing cocktail that mirrors the dynamic energy of this conversation. Meanwhile, Melvin keeps it classic with grape Powerade, a nod to his focus on staying sharp and hydrated.
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

From the Court to the Field: The Rise of Melvin Gilliam (Part 1)

Podcast Description:
In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership, host Galen Bingham reconnects with his longtime friend and Oklahoma sports legend, Melvin Gilliam Sr. Known for his incredible athleticism, Melvin was a top 10 recruit in both basketball and football, making history as the first freshman in Big Eight history to start in both sports. From their middle school days at Carver to Melvin’s storied career at Booker T. Washington High School and Oklahoma State University, this episode is a nostalgic and inspiring journey through the life of a two-sport phenom.
Melvin shares the lessons he learned from competing at the highest levels, the challenges of balancing two sports in college, and the mindset that helped him thrive both on and off the field. Whether you’re a sports fan, a leader, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and unforgettable stories.
Listen in as Melvin Reflects on:
His Early Days: Growing up in Tulsa and competing at the legendary Booker T. Washington High School.
Making History: Becoming the first freshman in Big Eight history to start in both football and basketball.
The Power of Practice: Why the intensity of practice prepared him for success in games and in life.
The College Experience: Playing alongside future Hall of Famers like Barry Sanders and Thurman Thomas at Oklahoma State University.
The NIL Era: How today’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities would have changed the game for athletes like him.
What you drinking?And, of course, Galen keeps the whiskey flowing with a Yellowstone Single Barrel Kentucky Mule while Melvin raises a glass of grape Powerade (with a nod to his occasional wine cooler mix).
This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and stories that will inspire you to lead with heart, hustle, and humility.
Want more?For four dollars a month, you can become a Patreon VIP. You’ll get early access to every Part Two episode. A deep archive of exclusive conversations. Insight into who’s coming next. And direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle today Click Here. Cheers to leadership that matters!

Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership: Season 9 On Tap

We’re back—and the signal is stronger than ever.
In this preview episode, Galen Bingham, The Leadership Strategist, gives you a taste of what’s on tap for Season Nine of Whiskey, Jazz & Leadership. From sports legends to global legacy stewards, intuitive healers to jazz innovators, this season brings bold voices with real stories, real lessons, and real impact.
Get a front-row seat to powerful snippets from:
Melvin Gilliam Sr. – Two-sport collegiate star turned banking leader
DeVone Holt – President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center
Yolessa Lawrinnce – Intuitive healer, challenging us to find our true calling
Lenny Price – Jazz artist and kidney transplant survivor using music to heal
Hugh Roth – PepsiCo executive delivering a masterclass in leadership
This is where leadership gets real.
Want more? Click Here to become a VIP for just $4/month and get early access to Part Two of every conversation—plus a deep archive of exclusive content, insights into upcoming guests, and direct access to Galen himself.
Join the VIP circle. Cheers to Season Nine.

Season 8 Recap with Audrey Weidlick

Season 8 delivered big—and we’re breaking it all down.Audrey Weidlick returns to recap the standout conversations, surprising takeaways, and most powerful leadership moments of the season. Plus, a sneak peek at what’s coming next!If you’re loving the show, become a VIP on Patreon.You’ll get bonus episodes, extended interviews, and early access to new releases.

Leading in the Unknown with Lori Holt (Part 2)

Lori Holt returns to explore curiosity, courage, and the questions that change everything. She and Galen discuss catalytic leadership, the magic found in the unknown, and the quiet confidence of her “Invisible Board of Directors.” From faith and creativity to the power of vision boards, Lori shows how staying curious keeps leaders and dreams alive.
 
🎧 Subscribe, leave a review, and join the VIP Community for instant access to Part 2 of Lori Holt’s powerful finale—plus exclusive bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes insights, and leadership lessons you won’t hear anywhere else. Cheers! 🥃

Leading in the Unknown with Lori Holt (Part 1)

Former ELC COO and strategist Lori Holt joins Galen to unpack a career built on curiosity, reinvention, and depth. From Cardinal Health to Cigna to launching The Thought Authority, Lori shares how vision boarding, catalytic questions, and “taking up space” turn strategy into action—no sheet music required. 
🎧 Subscribe, leave a review, and join the VIP Community for instant access to Part 2 of Lori Holt’s powerful finale—plus exclusive bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes insights, and leadership lessons you won’t hear anywhere else. Cheers! 🥃
 

Generous Leadership with Joe Davis (Part 2)

Former BCG North America head and author Joe Davis returns to talk about what it really means to be a generous leader. From the evolution of leadership and the power of curiosity to asking catalytic questions that inspire change, Joe shares how empathy, values, and humanity shape great leadership today.
He also reveals the personal lessons and stories behind his book, The Generous Leader: Seven Ways to Give of Yourself for Everyone’s Gain.
👉 Join the VIP Community for instant access to exclusive insights, extended interviews, and leadership tools from this episode and more.

Generous Leadership with Joe Davis (Part 1)

Former BCG North America head Joe Davis joins Galen to unpack “generous leadership”—growing people first, asking better questions, and dancing in the gray. From paper routes to the C-suite, Joe shares mentor lessons, sponsor vs. mentor clarity, and the feedback courage leaders need. Pour a glass and take notes.Don’t wait for Part 2—get it right now.
Join the VIP Community for instant access to Joe Davis’s full conversation on mentorship, leadership growth, and the lessons behind The Generous Leader.

Sip, Strategize, Scale with George Armstrong (Part 2)

Former Target executive George Armstrong returns to Whiskey, Jazz and Leadership for an honest, insightful look at what it really takes to lead at the highest levels. From balancing masculine and feminine energies to transforming your leadership mindset, George reveals how adaptability, humility, and self-awareness fuel long-term success.
He also shares the powerful story of a near-death experience that reshaped his perspective on purpose and leadership. If you’re ready to learn how great leaders flex, evolve, and build systems that outlast them—this conversation is your playbook.
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Sip, Strategize, Scale with George Armstrong (Part 1)

Former Target Group VP George Armstrong breaks down how he led billion-dollar turnarounds—blending classical fundamentals with jazz-level creativity. We sip Jefferson’s Ocean and dig into customer obsession, operational excellence, and building #1 teams through change. Note-takers: this playbook is packed with immediately usable leadership moves.Don’t stop here—George’s leadership playbook continues in Part 2!Join the VIP Community for instant access to the rest of this incredible conversation, filled with insights on turnaround leadership, culture transformation, and leading through change.

The Business of Wealth with LaVaisha Davis (Part 2)

In this follow-up episode, LaVaisha Davis, Generational Wealth Advisor and founder of LOS Advisors, dives deeper into the strategies and discipline behind building lasting wealth.
She and Galen tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of wealth building—planning before emotions take over—and explore why tax strategy isn’t just about compliance but a powerful wealth-creation tool. LaVaisha also shares her personal influences, including her Invisible Board of Directors, and how intentional leadership shapes family legacies.
👉 Join the VIP Community today for immediate access to exclusive content and deeper insights from LaVaisha’s conversation.

The Business of Wealth with LaVaisha Davis (Part 1)

In this episode, Galen sits down with LaVaisha Davis, Generational Wealth Advisor and founder of LOS Advisors, to break down what it really takes to move beyond making money—and start building lasting wealth.
LaVaisha shares her personal journey from aspiring medical professional to entrepreneur and wealth advisor, the lessons she learned through both success and setbacks, and why most families don’t need more income—they need a better system.
If you’ve ever wondered how to turn revenue into legacy, why vision matters more than tactics, or how to lead your family like a business, this conversation is for you.
👉 Subscribe now—or join the VIP Community for immediate access to Part 2, where we go deeper into the systems and strategies for generational wealth.