We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Wood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Bruce Arians is the former Head Coach of the Arizona Cardinals and is famous for several quotes including “No risk it – no biscuit!”

When I reflect on my all aspects of my life; personally, professionally, and athletically – the more chances I took and the more risk I was comfortable with, the better the outcome. There may be a little bit of a roller coaster ride when you lean into risk, but the upside is enormous and includes a significant reduction of regret! Playing it safe, not taking chances and being too conservative often leads to the “woulda, coulda and shoulda” syndrome and missed opportunities. “I coulda been a contender!”

As we craft our lives, the goal should be to make our brief time on this planet a masterpiece. That means showing up in a way that is unique instead of fitting in and following the crowd.

Take that big shot for your team. Stand up and fight for those who can’t defend themselves. Seek adventure. Passionately pursue things that align with your values and make the world a better place. DO NOT PLAY SMALL!

You either win or you learn.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
After spending decades in the corporate world, I discovered professional coaching and never looked back! The transition wasn’t always easy, but expecting an unobstructed path to magically “show up” is not realistic. There has to be some grind and grit when fighting for something worth pursuing. Long ago I was an athlete and although my knees provide me with daily reminders of the number of years that have passed, the lessons never fade. “Don’t let your teammates down” was one that motivated me throughout my transition – and still does. There are people and organizations out there that desperately need help. Neglecting to attack each day with courage and curiosity, is the equivalency of failing these teammates.

It’s about contributing more than we consume and I’ve found that success coaching is exceptionally impactful in terms of serving others, fulfillment, learning and changing lives.

MARS Coaching is about leveraging diverse life experiences, education, training and passion to create the highest ROI possible. for clients and humanity. This includes a significant time in the corporate world, experience as an NBA/WNBA player agent, background working with elite athletes and professional sports teams. Imagine what the potential outcome looks like for players on your team armed with professional coaching, resources, accountability, motivation and strategy. Now imagine this happening without the distraction of those who arrive “star struck.” This has nothing to do with getting autographs and pictures. It has everything to do with supporting greatness enabling greatness to ripple across the globe.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One night in Flagstaff (especially if your visit takes place in the summer)! One night in Sedona, which is shockingly beautiful, inspiring and spiritual.
Downtown Phoenix has some great energy and excellent food choices – so plan on two nights there and a few suggestions from a self proclaimed foodie:

Rough Rider
Platform 18 at Century Grand
Changing Hands Bookstore (two locations – downtown Phoenix and Tempe)
Check out the Suns and/or D-Backs!

Plenty to do and see in Scottsdale including so plan on spending two nights and enjoy a couple fan favorites:

Hike Camelback Mountain to build up your appetite
Rockefeller – did I mention I’m a foodie?

Make sure you spread the wealth and visit several coffee shops while in AZ (there’s always room for one more cup)!

Here are a few good ones:

Hava Java – Phoenix and Mesa
Provisions – Phoenix and Scottsdale
Dialog Coffee – Phoenix

No charge for this insight – but generous tips (small unmarked bills) are encouraged!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
All shoutout roads lead back to my parents – Jerry and Jacque Wood. Although I will never be able to repay the debt for their constant sacrifice, unconditional love and inspiration, I’ll never stop trying and never stop thanking God for the “GOAT” parents! I serve, coach, lead and fight as a tribute to them and remain forever grateful. I’m also so thankful for my wife Vivian who is my partner in crime and coffee and supports the passion for travel and tolerates (what many would describe as) my ridiculous adventures. More shoutouts come in the form of those meddling kids! Taylor, Isaiah and Vaughn Dunston (and family) motivate me daily, constantly encouraging me while giving me the strength to reach higher and imagine bigger possibilities. I love them all beyond words!

Sending some shout out love to my cool sisters Donna and Tanya (and family) too!

I’m aligned with more life-changing people and organizations then I can mention! Connecting with people and organizations who think big and want to serve humanity is kind of a thing for me! So I’m sending a big fat “shout out” to the countless people and organizations who continue to shape me. Thank you.

Sidebar: One of the latest books I’ve read is “Rules of the Red Rubber Ball” by Kevin Carroll. Extremely easy read but it outlines the importance of childlike wonder and using this superpower as a blueprint for life.

Website: https://manfrommarscoaching.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodmarscoach/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianwoodmba/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/woodmarscoach

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarsCoaching

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