Episode 32

Unlocking the Power of Strategic Planning with Don Schmincke

Don Schmincke

In today’s episode of the Performance Mindset podcast, Amy’s guest is Don Schmincke. Don trains 700 CEOs annually, is a keynote speaker, and is an author with books translated into 14 languages. Don is also an acclaimed top 10 speaker and a former MIT and Johns Hopkins researcher. He’s been featured by CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and more than 60 other publications.

In this episode, you’ll hear:


  1. Don’s background, including how he nearly dropped out of high school and his acceptance to MIT.
  2. How his business has evolved, what a typical day looks like, and how he finds time for writing.
  3. What tool seduction is and how to move past that to accomplish your goals.
  4. Why we’re teaching strategic planning incorrectly and the role of intuition in strategy.
  5. The reason your mindset impacts you personally and professionally and being unafraid to lose is freeing.
  6. His new book on AI and how it continues to evolve.
  7. The popular myths taught to CEOs and leaders that aren’t true.


Connect with Amy Calandrino here:

Beyond Commercial

CREi Summit


Connect with Don Schmincke:

LinkedIn

Website

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About the Podcast

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The Performance Mindset Show
Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.

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About your host

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Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.