Episode 280: How to Build Partnerships That Drive Real Growth with Elia Blankenship

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 They challenge outdated notions of consulting, explore the role of trust and candidness in partnerships, and dig into the messy reality of change.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 projects Links and Resources MentionedRSM – https://rsmus.comBooks on Emotional Intelligence (Emotional Intelligence 2.0)Microsoft Copilot and AI tools referenced in discussion Send us a text Support the show 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 Also be sure to give him and the show a follow on Instagram @coachstevemellor