Hustle, Influence, and Building a Legacy with Robert J. Smith
Sun Feb 01 2026
In this episode of Master the Workforce, host Jennifer Sheets and producer RJ broadcast live from Nashville during a severe ice storm to discuss the "70% of our lives" dedicated to work. They are joined by business consultant and multi-industry expert Robert J. Smith, known as "Smitty," to discuss his recent success with the book Influence and Action for CEOs, which reached number one on both Amazon and USA Today. Smitty emphasizes that effective leadership is built on responsibility, credibility, and a "we" mindset rather than just authority. He also highlights the financial benefits of becoming a bestselling author, noting a median income increase of $96,000 per year for those who achieve that status.
The conversation shifts toward the importance of personal "hustle" and self-reliance in a changing job market. Smitty encourages listeners—especially those like producer RJ who face challenges with corporate training and performance culture—to take charge of their own professional development through books and masterclasses. He shares his own experience of completing a seven-year financial designation program in just 13 months to provide for his family, illustrating the power of self-motivation. The episode concludes with a look at Smitty’s latest philanthropic endeavor, the Junior Patriots charity, which aims to inspire American youth by publishing their essays on what they love about the country.
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In this episode of Master the Workforce, host Jennifer Sheets and producer RJ broadcast live from Nashville during a severe ice storm to discuss the "70% of our lives" dedicated to work. They are joined by business consultant and multi-industry expert Robert J. Smith, known as "Smitty," to discuss his recent success with the book Influence and Action for CEOs, which reached number one on both Amazon and USA Today. Smitty emphasizes that effective leadership is built on responsibility, credibility, and a "we" mindset rather than just authority. He also highlights the financial benefits of becoming a bestselling author, noting a median income increase of $96,000 per year for those who achieve that status. The conversation shifts toward the importance of personal "hustle" and self-reliance in a changing job market. Smitty encourages listeners—especially those like producer RJ who face challenges with corporate training and performance culture—to take charge of their own professional development through books and masterclasses. He shares his own experience of completing a seven-year financial designation program in just 13 months to provide for his family, illustrating the power of self-motivation. The episode concludes with a look at Smitty’s latest philanthropic endeavor, the Junior Patriots charity, which aims to inspire American youth by publishing their essays on what they love about the country.