The Way of The Wolf

Every entrepreneur faces moments when success on paper doesn’t feel like success in purpose. In this episode, Sean Barnes shares the raw and real story behind transforming WSS Solutions into Wolf Executives, a journey built on clarity, courage, and alignment.
Sean Barnes opens up about the missed shots, the pivots, and the moment he realized that true growth begins when you stop chasing everything and go all in on what lights a fire in your soul.
If you’ve ever questioned whether your work still fits who you’ve become, this story will remind you that alignment isn’t just about business, it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 253 | 10.27.2025
Episode Title: The Power of Alignment: How I Transformed My Company
Key Moments
00:25 - The “bowling pin” metaphor for missed shots in business.
01:33 - Why WSS Solutions wasn’t aligned, and how “Wolf Executives” came to life.
03:26 - How a pandemic pivot reshaped Sean’s direction.
05:49 - The decision to shut down consulting and focus on leadership development.
07:56 - The moment Sean realized Wolf Executives was the vision all along.
10:14 - What happens when your passion becomes your magnet.
 
Key Takeaways
Entrepreneurship means missing more shots than you make, but each “miss” sharpens your aim.
A brand evolves when you do. Don’t be afraid to outgrow your old story.
True success comes from aligning your work with your purpose, not just your skills.
Winding down what no longer excites you opens the door to what fulfills you.
Focus on one thing that ignites your energy; your customers and opportunities will follow.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15

Sean Barnes shares practical strategies for dealing with toxic workplaces and unhealthy leadership cultures. Learn how to tell the difference between toxic and untrained leaders, how to stay motivated, when to move on, and how to rebuild your confidence after leaving.
Watch till the end for Sean’s personal story of leaving a toxic company, and what it taught him about leadership, resilience, and growth.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 252| 10.21.2025
Episode Title: Toxic Workplace? How to Lead & Move On | Sean Barnes
 
Key Moments
00:00 – Introduction: Why toxic workplaces are on the rise01:00 – Is leadership really toxic, or just under pressure?02:10 – Communicating up and down the chain with empathy03:00 – Turning frustration into opportunity for leadership growth05:20 – Knowing when it’s time to leave07:20 – Sean’s personal story of walking away from toxicity08:30 – How to rebuild trust and confidence after a toxic experience10:30 – Finding healthy companies and protecting your brand11:20 – Closing thoughts on resilience and leadership
 
Key Takeaways
Understand before judging: Sometimes “toxic” leadership is just undeveloped leadership. Seek to understand before labeling.
Lead through empathy: Ask clarifying questions and share context with your team to reduce frustration.
Stay the light: When negativity dominates, choose optimism and be the example of strength and hope.
Know when to walk away: If the environment is harming your health, it’s time to prioritize yourself.
Rebuild intentionally: Surround yourself with positive, growth-minded people, they’ll help you rediscover your confidence.
Brand matters: Build a personal brand rooted in integrity and growth so you can attract healthy workplaces.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15
 

Sean Barnes breaks down what it really takes to stand out in a job interview, from doing your homework and asking the right questions to using storytelling to build confidence and connection. He shares practical strategies to help you prepare, practice, and show initiative so you can walk in ready to make a lasting impression and land the role you want.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 251 | 10.13.2025
Episode Title: How to Guarantee a Job Offer in 5 Steps (Interview Confidence)
 
Key Moments
0:00 - Introduction to the episode
0:29 - Preparing for job interviews: Research, connections, and questions
3:43 - Interview techniques: Storytelling and confidence
4:04 - Effective interview practice and planning
5:51 - Demonstrating initiative and the importance of preparation
 
Key Takeaways
Researching the company thoroughly before an interview positions you to ask meaningful questions and demonstrate genuine interest.
Sharing detailed stories about your past work experiences, including challenges, helps you connect with interviewers on a deeper level.
Practicing through mock interviews can significantly boost your confidence and reduce nervousness during the actual interview.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15
 

What does it take to build a brand people actually believe in? Sean Barnes and Nader Safinya explore culture branding, executive coaching, and the future of leadership in a post-COVID world.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 249 | 09.30.2025
Episode Title: Nader Safinya & Sean Barnes   
 
Key Moments
0:00 - Introduction to Nader Safinya and Black Ribbit
1:05 - Welcome to The Way of the Wolf
1:33 - Culture branding and its challenges
2:42 - The impact of COVID-19 on workplace dynamics
5:10 - Employee vs. customer experience disconnect
6:02 - Importance of strategic questioning in business
7:22 - Company culture and job seeking
10:18 - Executive career transition coaching
13:20 - Implementing culture branding solutions
17:36 - Job descriptions tailored to lifestyle choices
21:51 - Quantifying culture: surveys and financial metrics
24:08 - Measuring workforce engagement qualitatively and quantitatively
25:52 - Rise of coaching and consulting post-pandemic
28:45 - Differentiation in coaching and consulting
29:03 - AI's role in human harmony
33:09 - Wealth redistribution and educational initiatives
35:42 - Networking events' impact on business
37:03 - Addressing toxic workplaces
38:02 - Communication's role in culture branding
41:24 - Balancing passion with practicality in leadership
44:33 - Black Ribbit's origins and leadership development
49:19 - The importance of early branding
51:17 - Vision for Black Ribbit's future growth
53:18 - Collaborative leadership and industry improvement
54:14 - Final thoughts on leadership and growth
55:22 - Closing remarks and thanks
 
Key Takeaways
Culture branding bridges the gap between what a company says and what it does, aligning employee and customer experiences seamlessly.
Effective communication and human-centered design in the workplace can transform company culture and positively impact employees' lives, creating a ripple effect beyond the office.
Redistributing wealth and leveraging AI requires careful consideration of human skills and education to ensure a balanced and harmonious future.
 
Guest: Nader Safinya
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nadersafinya/
Website: http://blackribbit.com/
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/frog-talk/id1738770860
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Yugp87LUkJiRLDeZTtiSO
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15

Confidence doesn’t transfer perfectly, but it grows each time you start over. Sean Barnes shares how facing fear in new domains proves it’s never as big as it seems, and why every restart builds lasting growth.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 250 | 10.07.2025
Episode Title: How To Build Confidence 
Key Moments
0:00 - Navigating new challenges and setting goals
2:02 - Transitioning into leadership and skill development
4:03 - Selling ideas and expanding leadership responsibilities
5:27 - Embracing entrepreneurship and overcoming initial hurdles
6:21 - Building domain-specific confidence and resilience
 
Key Takeaways
Confidence is domain-specific, but skills and experiences from one area can bleed over and help you succeed in new challenges.
Starting over in new domains can be intimidating, but it provides valuable learning and growth opportunities that build long-term confidence.
Fear is often exaggerated in our minds, and pushing through it reveals that it's not as daunting as it seems, enabling personal and professional growth.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15

Join me on a travel vlog to beautiful Pagosa Springs, near Colorado Springs! I'm taking in the scenic mountains and enjoying the river. It's the perfect Colorado vacation to experience the best Colorado hot springs and decide where to go next!
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 248| 09.23.2025
Episode Title: How To Lift Others Up
 
Key Moments
0:00 - Introduction: The power of community and entrepreneurship
1:24 - The importance of human connection in business
2:23 - Closing remarks and call to action
 
Key Takeaways
Building meaningful relationships and sharing knowledge is crucial in today's fast-paced, technology-driven world.
Taking time to slow down and connect with others can provide much-needed clarity and rejuvenation.
Supporting and genuinely helping those around you can have a significant positive impact on their lives and your community.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15

In this episode of The Way of the Wolf, Sean Barnes sits down with Clint Eubanks, senior executive at Rebound Dynamics, to talk about how technology is transforming inventory management and driving efficiency across industries.
Clint shares his journey from consulting and engineering to leading digital transformation in the energy sector, and how Rebound Dynamics uses RFID, IoT, and AI to provide real-time visibility into inventory across warehouses, rigs, and remote sites.
Key Highlights:
How real-time tracking lowers costs and frees up cash for businesses.
Why RFID and smart warehouses are game changers for supply chain operations.
The role of AI in forecasting demand and simplifying decision-making.
Lessons on quantifying value and proving impact as an executive or professional.
Whether you’re a business owner, senior executive, or technology leader, this conversation will shift the way you think about efficiency, digital transformation, and creating measurable value.
Website:
https://www.wolfexecutives.com
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series:
https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
 

Want to know how to instantly create rapport? This video shares useful communication skills for immediate results. Learn how to connect with people at networking event tips and how to talk to anyone, especially using networking basics.
 
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 246| 02.09.2025
Episode Title: The Secret Trick to Connect with Anyone  
 
Key Moments
0:00 - Introduction to building rapport and overcoming conversation fears
1:12 - The power of matching energy and authenticity
3:12 - Stretching beyond comfort zones with practical tips
4:14 - The value of connections in personal and professional growth
 
Key Takeaways
Adapting your energy to match the person you are speaking with can make them feel more comfortable and open to conversation.
Making meaningful connections at networking events often leads to valuable learning experiences and opportunities.
Being intentional about connecting with new people and meeting them where they are can elevate the overall networking experience for everyone involved.
 
Host: Sean Barnes
Website: https://www.wolfexecutives.com  
https://www.seanbarnes.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series: https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube: youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter: https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
https://x.com/wolfexecutives
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15