Ray Makela: From Daily Drinking to Leadership Mastery
I realized I was way better off not drinking. I've been actually, I guess, yeah, I've been sober just years in September.
What happens when a seasoned business executive with a history of daily drinking decides to turn his life around? In this episode of 'God Took Me to Las Vegas', Randy Mortensen sits down with Ray Makela, who shares his remarkable journey from the grips of alcoholism to 20 years of sobriety.
Ray, an author and speaker with over 25 years of experience in management, consulting, and sales, opens up about his past struggles and how they shaped his approach to leadership and team building. Coming from a family with a history of alcoholism, Ray's story is one of resilience and transformation. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to sobriety and how he now channels his experiences into helping others succeed in their careers.
Ray emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between leadership and management skills, noting that while both are crucial, they serve different purposes in fostering effective teams. Through candid anecdotes and practical advice, Ray sheds light on the five key leadership skills that can strengthen any team. He also touches on the significance of mental health, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic, and advocates for open conversations about personal struggles in safe environments.
Whether you're looking for inspiration on your sobriety journey or tips to enhance your leadership skills, this episode offers a wealth of insights and encouragement.