About the Guest: Elia Blankenship is a consulting leader at RSM specializing in transformation work for financial institutions and beyond. With a background in management, organizational change, and a deep commitment to emotional intelligence, Elia challenges the traditional “consultant tells, client does” approach. Instead, she builds partnerships rooted in listening, candor, and collaboration, empowering clients to own their growth journey. She’s also a champion for automation and AI adoption in the industries she serves.About the Episode: In this conversation, host Steve Mellor and guest Elia Blankenship unpack what it really means to be “growth ready.” They challenge outdated notions of consulting, explore the role of trust and candidness in partnerships, and dig into the messy reality of change. Elia shares her approach to creating ownership in clients, why “reading the room” is a critical skill, and how personal growth mirrors professional transformation. They also touch on adapting to digital trends, breaking through ego and bias, and the importance of staying curious in a fast-moving world.At the heart of the discussion? Growth takes work. Hard work. But with the right people, the right mindset, and the willingness to listen, it’s work worth doing.Key Topics DiscussedRethinking the role of a consultantThe importance of listening, humility, and service in leadershipBuilding trust before candid conversationsCreating ownership so clients sustain progressOvercoming ego, pride of ownership, and readiness barriersReading the room and adapting communication stylesApplying consulting lessons to family and personal growthThe need to embrace AI, automation, and digital transformationHow speed-to-market is changing the consulting landscapePersonal reflections on future growth and unfinished projectsLinks and Resources MentionedRSM – https://rsmus.comBooks on Emotional Intelligence (Emotional Intelligence 2.0)Microsoft Copilot and AI tools referenced in discussionSend us a textSupport the showConnect with Steve Mellor Stay connected and keep growing with Steve: LinkedIn Instagram Book Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.com Support the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts Connect with GrowthReady Join the community and keep your growth journey going: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Official Website ---- This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via Buzzsprout Sign up for the monthly newsletter with Steve and GrowthReady (formerly known as Career Competitor) by providing your details here - Request to become part of our community

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