Dancing in the Discomfort Zone with Anne Bonney

Leadership, Illusions, and Leaps of Faith with Ken Hartley

Anne Bonney Season 15 Episode 337

What if the expiration date on your current life isn’t a dead end—but an invitation to reinvent yourself? 

In this inspiring, high-energy episode, Anne Bonney chats with Ken Hartley www.kenhartley.com  award-winning speaker, singer, and corporate magician, about his wild and courageous career pivot at 50 years old. After 36 years leading music ministries, Ken walked away from everything stable and familiar to chase a completely different dream—and he didn’t just pivot; he pulled a full-on magic trick on his career and life.

From secret childhood magic shows to rocking stages as an inspirational illusionist, Ken shares how he turned fear into fuel and rejection into redirection. His story will challenge everything you think you know about leadership, reinvention, and what it really takes to chase a dream at any age.

 In this episode, you'll discover:

  • Why courage isn't about fearlessness—it's about movement despite the fear 
  • How true leaders speak their team's "language" to create belonging and connection (and why outdated leadership styles fail) 
  • The human-ness of personal reinvention—and how it can connect you to others 

If you're standing at a crossroads (or just need a little push to dream bigger), Ken’s story is your sign. 

Press play and prepare to be inspired—and maybe pull a little magic into your own life too.

Indiana Jones clip Ken mentions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-JIfjNnnMA

Want more from Ken?

Ken Hartley is a CSP® (Certified Speaking Professional) with the National Speakers Association, a Certified Leader with the John Maxwell Team, and a Certified expert in DISC. He is also a recipient of the Merlin Award from the International Magicians Society for "Corporate Inspirational Magician of the Year” for 2024.

He exists to empower you see past the illusions of leadership and communication so you can become the authentic leaders others want to follow.