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Episode 243

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Published on:

27th Mar 2025

Unlocking Leadership Transformation with Choice Theory Psychology – Part 2

In this powerful conclusion to my conversation with Hussein Paymozd, we continue exploring his transformational leadership journey. Hussein shares how he evolved from a more authoritarian, top-down style to a leader committed to helping his team meet their basic psychological needs at work.

He explains how his communication shifted when he adopted an internal control mindset, moving away from external motivators like rewards and punishments and toward a more inclusive, inspiring approach. Hussein also reflects on the profound impact of translating my book, Mental Freedom, into Farsi—both personally and professionally.

For leaders still relying on control-based tactics, Hussein offers wise advice—and leaves us with a memorable quote that sums up his philosophy: "Even if you win the rat race, you're still a rat." I couldn’t agree more.

If you missed Part 1, be sure to check it out for the full picture of Hussein's transformation.

Interested in becoming a Board Certified Coach (BCC) through Academy of Choice? Our next cohort for the 60- or 120-hour programs begins April 1. Click here to learn more and register.

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About the Podcast

Life = Choices; Choices = Life
Making better choices for a better life
Life = Choices; Choices = Life is about learning to replace external control psychology with radical responsibility and appreciation so you can make better choices to create the life you want to have. Kim Olver is a leading expert in Choice Theory™ psychology and will share what she has gleaned from the legendary work of Dr. William Glasser, as well as sharing her unique perspective based on over 30 years of study and research.

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Kim Olver

Kim Olver's mission is to help people make better choices for a better life. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor, a nationally certified counselor and a board certified coach. She is a world renowned expert in Choice Theory™ , a highly sought after international speaker and an award-winning author. Her books include: Leveraging Diversity at Work with Sylvester Baugh (2006), Secrets of Happy Couples (2010), Choosing Me Now (2019) and A Choice Theory Guide to Relationships (2019). Kim is currently working on the forthcoming books, The Definitive Guide to Coaching and Radical Responsibility and Appreciation. Kim is the author of The Relationship Center blog; creator of Empowerment Parenting, a 25-hour parenting curriculum for court-mandated parents; and owner of Academy of Choice, a BCC (Board Certified Coach) Coaching Program. Kim worked five years as a counselor for schizophrenics in a community-based residential program, 17 years holding various positions with a specialized foster care agency, was Executive Director of Glasser Institute for Choice Theory for nine years and the Executive Director for William Glasser International for eight; and began her own company, Coaching for Excellence, in 2005. She is a model of what she teaches about taking responsibility for the things she can influence and control and finding appreciation for those things she can't. Kim believes radical responsibility and appreciation are the keys to a happy, peaceful, satisfying life.