In this week’s episode of The Long Game, Jeremy Knauff and I sat down with someone who knows a thing or two about saying “NOPE” – Michael King.
Michael isn’t just a leadership and performance coach; he’s someone who has mastered the art of building brands and relationships that thrive because of clarity and conviction. And wow this conversation was one of those that hits you right between the eyes (in the best way).
We dove deep into what it means to set boundaries, protect your integrity, and create space for the right relationships to flourish both personally and professionally. Because let’s face it saying “yes” to everything isn’t sustainable… and it definitely isn’t strategic.
1. Boundaries Build Brand Integrity
Michael reminded us that ‘boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re blueprints.”
They define what you stand for and what you won’t compromise on via it be in life, business, and leadership. Every time you say “yes” to something that doesn’t align with your values, you dilute your brand.
As Michael said during the show, “Every ‘no’ is an investment in your bigger ‘yes.’” That’s where clarity and consistency become your brand’s best allies.
2. You Can’t Be Everything to Everyone
This one hit home for so many marketers and business owners watching live.
Jeremy and I talked about how the constant pressure to “do it all” leads to burnout and blandness. The truth? The brands that stand out today are the ones that stay rooted in who they are — not the ones trying to chase every trend or client.
Michael shared that influence isn’t about impressing everyone it’s about impacting the right ones.
3. The Power of Alignment Over Approval
Michael has this way of cutting through the noise with honesty. He said, “When you stop chasing validation, you start building vision.”
That’s The Long Game in action.
We talked about how aligning your brand with your mission and your people creates magnetic energy. When you lead with care and conviction, you attract relationships — not transactions.
This is what I call playing the relationship marketing long game: being a magnet, not a bullhorn.
4. The “NOPE” That Leads to Growth
Jeremy brought up something powerful too, that sometimes your biggest growth comes from the moments you walk away.
Saying “NOPE” to toxic partnerships, misaligned clients, or shiny distractions frees up your capacity for what really matters: building a legacy that lasts.
That’s what The Long Game is all about sustainability, integrity, and the courage to lead differently.
5. Love More. Give More. Be More.
If there’s one thing I hope everyone walked away with, it’s this: saying no isn’t selfish it’s strategic love.
It’s how we protect our peace, preserve our purpose, and make room for the kind of relationships that help us grow.
As Michael reminded us, “Boundaries aren’t rejection … they’re direction.”
And that’s what helps us play The Long Game.
Bonus: Here’s Michael’s new video he mentioned on the show “Through the Haze” Blending music and leadership in this video so he stands out amongst other coaches and is memorable. (Like his talk at Social Media Week Lima … see the replay HERE.
Comments