What does it really take to stay grounded, human, and compassionate as a business grows faster than you ever imagined?
In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, I sit down with Nicolas Breedlove for a deeply honest conversation about leadership, growth, and the internal work required to scale without losing yourself or the people around you. Nicolas shares what becoming unshakable has meant for him over the years, including the hard-earned discipline of emotional self-control and the realization that true leadership starts with self-leadership. We talk openly about his early mistakes, moments of emotional reactivity, and how learning to manage his responses shaped the leader he is today.
Our conversation moves into the role of community in leadership, both inside and outside the workplace. Nicolas reflects on how surrounding himself with other entrepreneurs later in his journey changed his perspective, sharpened his thinking, and helped him grow in ways he wished he had embraced earlier. We explore why a hoarding vision can quietly damage an organization, how sharing it fosters alignment, and why allowing others’ strengths to influence the business’s direction builds trust and resilience over time.
Nicolas also walks me through his entrepreneurial journey, from unexpected beginnings in playground equipment to building a nationwide operation that impacts communities, families, and children. What stands out is how his definition of success has evolved, moving from financial growth toward purpose, culture, and social impact. He shares a powerful story of betrayal that tested his trust and identity as a leader, and how that experience reshaped his commitment to culture, values, and compassionate decision-making.
We close with a thoughtful reflection on compassion fatigue, parenting, unlearning old patterns, and what leaders can do when they feel overwhelmed by the weight of everything around them. Nicolas offers grounded advice on resetting, finding perspective, and remembering why the work matters in the first place. As you listen, I hope this conversation invites you to reflect on your own leadership journey and ask yourself, how are you choosing compassion while continuing to grow?
Nic Breedlove is a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of NVB Playgrounds, a company dedicated to creating safe, engaging, and inclusive play spaces that bring communities together. With over a decade of experience in the playground industry, Nic has revolutionized how schools, parks, and organizations approach play design by offering innovative solutions that combine creativity, safety, and durability. Under Nic’s leadership, NVB Playgrounds has become a trusted partner for clients across the country, helping them navigate the challenges of planning, budgeting, and building exceptional play areas. Nic is a sought-after speaker and storyteller who shares insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the power of play. When he’s not leading his team, Nic enjoys exploring the outdoors, creating impactful content, and connecting with audiences to inspire growth and innovation
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About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP
Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization.
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