It Matters Podcast

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 pote...

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 gro...

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 an...

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 undersco...

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...

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 ...

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 th...

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 mar...

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, ...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez welcomes Tara Kerns. Tara shares her journey from aspiring engineer to rare disease advocate after her sons were diagnosed with Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC). She discusses the challenges of navigating a rare diagnosis, building a supportive community, and balancing leadership with self-care. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience,...

In this solo episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores leadership, mindset, and personal growth as the year nears its end. He encourages listeners to reflect on their progress, let go of what doesn’t truly matter, and focus on positive habits and purposeful action. Walter stresses the importance of proactive reflection and making intentional choices to finish the year strong and start the next one with momentum....

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the importance of embracing change for personal growth and effective leadership. He introduces the acronym "CHANGE"—Choose it, Have a vision, Ask for help, Need to do the work, Grow as you go, and Evaluate along the way—to guide listeners through the process. Walter emphasizes that while change can be uncomfortable, it is essential for progress. He encourages lea...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores how a constant sense of urgency can undermine effective leadership. Speaking directly to leaders, the episode highlights the negative impacts of urgency—such as poor decision-making, burnout, and reduced team morale—and encourages a shift toward proactive, well-prepared leadership. By prioritizing clear communication, thoughtful planning, and team collaboration, leade...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter explores the concept of "Counterfeit Leadership," highlighting six common misconceptions people often mistake for true leadership. He explains that being first, holding a title, managing systems, owning a business, being entrepreneurial, or simply possessing knowledge do not automatically make someone a leader. True leadership, Walter emphasizes, is about influence, growth, and posi...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez explores leadership effectiveness during seasonal transitions. Emphasizing self-reflection, the host shares five key questions for leaders: clarifying vision, assessing current reality, acknowledging weaknesses, recognizing strengths, and leveraging team dynamics. Listeners are encouraged to seek honest feedback, write down their vision, and use tools like StrengthsFinder to e...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez reflects on the theme of pressure, sharing a personal story about navigating the stress of having a sick child with a rare disease. The episode explores how pressure reveals—rather than creates—character, mindset, values, and habits. Listeners are encouraged to proactively build strong foundations so they can respond positively when challenges arise. Walter emphasizes self-ref...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, Walter Perez reflects on the importance of going above and beyond at work. The episode explores how a “not my job” mentality harms workplace culture, encourages listeners to pursue excellence, help others, and align personal values with their workplace. Walter also discusses the leader’s role in fostering supportive environments and emphasizes that every role and contribution matters in cr...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores effective team leadership, drawing from his own experiences. He emphasizes that true leadership is about empowering the entire team, not just the person in charge. Walter discusses the importance of co-creating vision and processes, fostering ownership, open communication, and trust. He encourages leaders to be selfless, value team input, and celebrate collective...

In this episode of the It Matters Podcast, host Walter Perez explores the transformative power of daily habits, emphasizing how small, consistent actions shape our lives over time. Drawing from personal experiences in health and fitness, Walter highlights the importance of self-awareness, patience, and aligning habits with core values. Listeners are encouraged to evaluate their routines, embrace discomfort for growth, and recognize...