Businesses that Care Podcast (formerly Mere Mortals Unite)

This is it.  236 episodes and its now time to move in different directions and make an impact in different ways.  It has been illuminating.  Every person I have met and interviewed along the way has enriched my life forever.  Each episode has a lesson, an action, or both, for you to utilize, sometimes with a few tweaks to ensure your success.   Hard to let go of, but I leave evergreen information for all of you to utilize as you move into the future…whatever that may look like.  Thank you, Thank you.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Daniel Ramsey is the founder and CEO of MyOutDesk, serving more than 5,000 clients with virtual assistants.  Leading teams of remote workers has its own challenges.  Working from home, even intermittently is growing with popularity.  Daniel shares his expertise and vision he has learned from outsourcing a workforce.  His key focus is on communication.  Remote workers and the businesses they work for need that component to survive    For more information about MyOutDesk (MOD): MyOutDesk Website MOD on Twitter MyOutDesk on YouTube Get Your Free Copy of Scaling Your Business 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Tristan White is the founder & CEO of The Physio Co, a unique healthcare business that has ranked as one of Australia’s 50 Best Places to Work for eleven consecutive years (2009-2019), along with being named one of the Best Workplaces in Asia from 2015-2018. No wonder I wanted him on my podcast.  Tristan White understands the importance of core purpose and core values. He has grown it through necessity. Tristan has developed a program called, Culture is Everything Kickstarter. It is based on four key areas: Discover the core Document the future Execute relentlessly   Show more love      For more information about Tristan and The Physio Co : Tristan's Website The Physio Co Website Tristan on Twitter Tristan on LinkedIn 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

My guest is Tonille Miller, Global VP of Culture and Employee Experience at Startek.  Tonille is passionate about improving the human experience at work while driving the optimal performance of people and organizations.  This combination is a focus of the Businesses that Care podcast.     Startek is a customer engagement business process outsourcing company.  Their goal is to deliver deeper relationships through better customer insights and interactions.  Startek has three goals: Influence positive behavior Shape brand perceptions Create loyal advocates   As an organizational psychologist, Tonille Miller has spent the past 15 years as a consultant, executive coach and researcher.  Her focus has been looking at what people need to be highly productive, engaged and flourishing. She believes, it is easier than you think.  In this episode, Tonille shares how this is possible.     For more information about Tonille: Tonille Miller's Website Tonille on Twitter Tonille on LinkedIn   2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Meridith Elliott Powell is an award-winning author, keynote speaker and business strategist.  She worked her way up from an entry-level position to earn her seat at the C-Suite table. Meridith's philosophy of accountability is not micromanagement.  Instead, she helps her clients shift their paradigm to use accountability to understand if processes are working or not.   Amazing that we were talking about this before we experienced the Coronavirus challenge.  This episode is so relevant to the continued changes that our society and your business is going through.   To create accountability, you need cookies for the people who do what is expected and consequences for those who do not.  For this to work, you need a set of behaviors and results and a way to track those as well.  Her website says it best; "Everything about today’s marketplace is different – your customers, competition, technology and employees. In a world that has changed so drastically, doesn’t it make sense you need a new approach to how you sell, how you lead, how you grow your organization?" For more information about Meridith Powell: Meridith Powell's Website Meridith on Twitter Meridith on LinkedIn Meridith on Instagram   2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Several years ago, I interviewed the CEO of Acceleration Partners (AP), Robert Glazer.  They have grown exponentially since then. Friday Forward, Robert’s inspirational musings, has grown from 17k to over 120k.  I wanted to take a look from the inside of this organization to see if what you hear is what is lived. So, in this episode I am talking with Dana Aigotti, who has been with the company for a year and a half.   We touch on AP’s interview process, onboarding, how the workforce is reviewed and what they call mindful transitions, which is their exit strategy. It was a lot of fun and in the end Dana and I realized we both like real cheese with our nachos.     For more information about Dana Aigotti, Friday Forward and Acceleration Partners: Dana on LInkedIn Visit Acceleration Partners Visit Friday Forward Follow Acceleration Partners on Twitter Listen to Robert Glazer's episode 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

FranklinCovey is the world leader in helping organizations achieve results that require lasting changes in human behavior, often the most difficult challenge any organization faces. When accomplished, it is also the most durable competitive advantage. Scott Miller is a 23-year associate of FranklinCovey and serves as the executive vice president of thought leadership.  Besides being a best-selling author, Scott authors a weekly leadership column for Inc.com. On this episode, Scott shares the importance of creating a safe environment.  At FranklinCovey, they believe in making a safe place for others to tell you the truth. He believes as a leader, you need to create a culture where those on our team can tell us the truth, offer us feedback, and seek guidance without fear. This is key for engagement, retention and where great ideas come from.    For more information about FranklinCovey and Scott Miller: FranklinCovey Website FranklinCovey on Twitter Scott Miller on LinkedIn Buy Management Mess to Leadership Success   2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

When I looked on Amazon to see how many books have been written on leadership, it said over 30,000.  On top of that there are countless speakers, conferences and membership organizations that profess to have the answer to the best type of leadership. But do they really?  Leadership, like culture is a never-ending journey. What type of information you need when you start a business is completely different from what you need when you get ready to exit.  In this episode I talk about some of the basic underlying fundamentals of effective leadership. These sometimes get lost in the detail of changing environments, but they affect everyone, in any position, at any point in time.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Laurie Guest is an award-winning customer service expert, Certified Speaking Professional and a good friend.  This overarching conversation looks at customer service from common sense to generational differences. Laurie believes that success comes from a deep understanding that everyone comes from a different background.  The more we understand the personalities of who we work with and respect those differences, customer service is enhanced.     Laurie shares with us the 5 key attributes that create what common sense means to each of us: The environment you were raised What era you were born into The environment where you used to work Personality type Who you work next to today.    For more information about Laurie: Laurie Guest's Website Laurie Guest on Facebook Laurie on Twitter Laurie on Instagram Laurie’s previous episode 10 Cent Decision - Free Chapter 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

In this episode I interview my guest, Tom Walter, Chief Culture Officer of Tasty Catering based out of Chicago.  They produce over 10,000 events yearly. WOW! Tasty has been recognized as the Best Small Workplace in the US according to Forbes Magazine, Inc. Magazine, and the #1 Best Place to Work in Illinois.  Tom is going to share with us the journey of Tasty’s millennial cultural revolt that happened over 13 years ago and the changes Tom and his leadership had to make. We might even get some information on the hedgehog concept and the Flywheel.  Thanks, Tom for taking the time to share your expertise.     Here is Tasty Catering’s Core Values: #1 always moral, ethical & legal #2 treat all with respect #3 quality in everything we do #4 high service standards #5 competitiveness: strong determination to be the best #6 an enduring culture of individual discipline #7 freedom & responsibility within the culture of individual discipline   For more information about Tasty Catering and Tom Walter: Company Website Tom Walter on Facebook Tom Walter on LInkedIn Tasty Catering on Twitter 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Can an accounting firm actually be a fun place to work? Years ago I interviewed Bill Hagaman, CEO and Managing Partner of WithumSmith+Brown. Since I’m a recovering accountant, I was very intrigued to have Bill on the show. We don’t think of an accounting firm as a place where people have fun, but they have established a business culture that is enjoyable and growth-oriented.    Since including Bill in my book, I decided to revisit this culturally elite company and talk with one of their employees, Aaron Slaughter.  Adam is a Senior Manager in Withum’s Washington, D.C. office. He specializes in providing top-notch assurance, auditing, tax, and accounting services to multiemployer benefit plans and labor organizations across the U.S.   This is an interesting conversation because not only does he work for Withum, but the office he is in is one they bought to expand their territory.  Adam, therefore, had to move into the Withum Way. I found out, WithumSmith+Brown really does walk their talk.   As a refresher, here are the components of the Withum Way.   The Ten Elements of the Withum Way  Think Client Centrically Possess a Vision for Growth Welcome Innovation and Change Maintain a Cooperative Attitude Demand Integrity Cultivate Open and Honest Relationships Embrace the Family Spirit Work hard/Play hard Give Back Live Life Passionately Interview Links & Other Resources   Withum.com The Withum Way Breaking Stereotypes of Accountants (Video) 2016 State of the Firm (Video) Follow Withum on Twitter   2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Contrary to popular thought, gratitude does have a place inside of every workplace.   For more than a decade, researchers have been studying the effects of a positive mindset and its byproducts of increased productivity, creativity, and engagement.  Gratitude creates an optimistic way of thinking.  Are you aware that grateful people can have 10% fewer stress-related illnesses?  That translates into lower absenteeism at work. Workers who feel well, work harder and smarter too.  Individuals who find more to appreciate in their lives become better problem solvers and produce higher quality work.  That’s how gratitude shows up in the bottom line of any business.  We humans have it backwards.  You might think that success will drive your happiness, but we have discovered that it is just the opposite.   For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Rhonda Spencer is the Chief People Officer at Barry Wehmiller.  She oversees two critical teams that inspire personal growth of team members, cultivates leaders within its ten divisional companies, and foster Barry-Wehmiller’s dynamic people-first culture: Organizational Empowerment and Culture & People Development. The Organizational Empowerment Team is focused on furthering the company’s highly successful leadership development institute, Barry-Wehmiller University, its continuous improvement initiatives, Living Legacy of Leadership (L3), and numerous sales motivation programs. Culture & People Development directs wellbeing initiatives, safety initiatives, team member benefits and recruiting efforts.   For more information about Barry-Wehmiller (BW): Barry-Wehmiller's Website BW on Twitter BW on Facebook BW on Youtube Barry-Wehmiller on LinkedIn   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

In this episode, I talk about the importance of flexibility. Being flexible is having the ability to adapt to new, different and changing environments. Since our world is constantly in flux, the skill of flexibility is mandatory for a successful and happy life. In today’s quickly changing world, the ability to think and act differently is essential. This can be applied to every aspect of your personal and professional life. To point out the necessity of this skill, let me ask you this.  Have you ever had a day completely go according to what your plan was? Probably not. Most of you don’t live in isolation, so there are thousands of factors every day that can change your plans.  Even a hermit in the woods relies on the weather and nature for their shelter and food supply.  For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Rhonda Leeman Taylor is a native of Canada.  She was one of the founding pioneers of woman’s Canadian hockey as it was being reborn in the 1980s.  She is now involved in assisting companies with their marketing and recruiting with specialized software at Advos, the HR Marketers and Fuel 50. This is a candid conversation about women in the workplace, women in sports and women in the boardroom.  Rhonda shares some incredible stories that you might think come from the dark ages, but happened not that long ago.  Her experience in women’s hockey gave her more power to counteract the disturbing treatment that she experienced. Her perseverance will help generations of women in the future.     For more information about Rhonda: Rhonda's Website Rhonda on Twitter Rhonda on LinkedIn Check out Fuel 50 Buy Offside, A Memoir 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

It’s important to understand that no matter where you are on the organizational chart, at some time, even if not all the time, you ARE a leader that someone is looking to for guidance, approval and permission.  That comes with some responsibilities, for instance, how do you empower those that ARE looking to you for guidance?  The definition of empowerment means to promote the self-actualization or influence of someone.  The best leaders are those that empower others to become what they can be, beyond even their own expectations.  They can see what others don’t see in themselves.   For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Gethin Nadin is the Director of Employee Wellbeing at Benefex. They believe that everyone deserves an exceptional experience at work, every day and they build workplace technology that makes this happen.  They are the producer of OneHub which is an award-winning employee benefit, reward, recognition and communications platform. We are going to be talking with Gethin about how Benefex uses its own philosophies internally to create a superb workplace culture.  That is where Gethin comes in.   Think about how great it would be to get communication that was directed to you and not have to filter through 100 emails that don’t pertain to you.  Benefex knows its employees and speaks to their needs. In this way, your employee experience is raised along with productivity and loyalty.   Gethin is a psychology graduate who has been helping some of the world’s largest organizations to improve their employee experience and wellbeing for almost two decades. As a frequent writer and speaker on employee experience and employee wellbeing. In 2018, Gethin published his first book - the 5 star rated Amazon HR bestseller, A World of Good: Lessons From Around the World in Improving the Employee Experience We are going to be talking with Gethin about how Benefex uses its own philosophies internally to create a superb workplace culture.     For more information about Benefex and Gethin Nadin: The Benefex Website Benefex on Twitter A World of Good on Twitter Gethin on LInkedIn 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Shep Hyken is the CAO (Chief Amazement Officer) of Shepard Presentations. As a customer service and experience expert and keynote speaker, Shep works with companies who want to build loyal relationships with their customers and employees. His focus is on delivering amazing customer service, customer engagement, managing the customer experience and creating customer loyalty. He is a hall of fame speaker (National Speakers Association) and a New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-selling author.  The direct correlation between internal culture and customer experience is what we dig deep into on this episode.  He imparts his knowledge about, Moments of truth, Moments of magic and his golden rule, “Do unto your employees as you would want done unto your customers.”   For more information about Shep: Shep Hyken's Website Shep on Twitter Shep on Facebook Shep on LinkedIn   Get 2 free months of Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review   Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Welcome to 2020.  It is a new year and you are probably filled with personal and professional goals.  Unfortunately, some research has shown that less than 25% of you will keep your personal resolutions past 30 days and only 8% of you will keep them over time.  Of course, in business, this would spell disaster. But it is still a struggle, mainly because not enough time and thought is put into shaping business goals, planning for their execution and being open to change.     In this episode, I am going to help you look at three strategic necessities to have success in your new business goals, with an emphasis on internally growing your culture.      For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Today I’m highlighting the importance of disengagement and how it can heighten your ability of resilience.  This episode is not about you being disengaged from the work you do.  On the contrary, the type of disengagement I’m going to talk about will actually raise your engagement in everything that you do.   It may seem contradictory, but listen through and you’ll find that downtime creates more valuable work time. Disengagement is a way of detaching from something.  And the something I want to discuss is the parts of life that may make you irritable, unhappy and frustrated.    In a world where more than 200 million emails are sent each day, it’s no wonder there seems to be no time to relax and disengage. You may think about work when you awaken or on your way to the office if you don’t work remotely. There are emails, meetings, and phone interruptions that further complicate ways in which you can be creative and productive.  In fact, just talking about this makes me want to scream.  It isn’t a coincidence that in May of 2019, burn-out was classified in the International Classification of Diseases as an occupational phenomenon.  You may have convinced yourself before ever listening to this episode that it’s counter-intuitive that downtime is necessary to work and play at your highest level.  But it isn’t.    For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Allison Pickens, COO at Gainsight, is an internationally known thought leader on driving subscription revenue growth and scaling teams. As the Chief Operating Officer, Allison is focused on generating excellence in company-wide strategy and execution, as well as new corporate development opportunities and evangelism. Allison was named one of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women and a Top Customer Service Influencer.  She studied at Yale and Stanford so we know she is wicked smart.   Allison built and scaled Gainsight’s post-sales functions, including a global team of more than 180 team members across Customer Success Management, Professional Services, Support, Customer Marketing, Value Consulting, and Customer Engineering. She also built Gainsight’s Corporate Development (M&A) function and is General Manager of Gainsight PX, an acquired business. Before that, she built Gainsight's Sales Development and Business Operations teams. Gainsight understands that business success relies on customer success.  Their business model is to help businesses connect with their customers and build deep relationships.  They practice that in-house too. Their culture is built on humanity first. They focus on creating and codifying their company values where it can live in their business daily.  They believe in leading by example and, if possible, finding the best fit for each employee, understanding that it may change over time. Instead of tossing talent, they appreciate their gifts and work with them to keep the relationship alive.  Or, they help them find another place where they can flourish.     For more information about Allison and Gainsight: Company Website Gainsight on Twitter Allison on Twitter Allison on LinkedIn   Get 2 free months of Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Raphael Crawford Marks is the founder and CEO of Bonusly.  This program improves employee engagement and retention by providing a frictionless tool for employees to give meaningful praise and feedback.  Chobani and Survey Monkey are just a few of the companies that think this is the path to take.  Raphael shares the importance of engagement being, timely, frequent, specific, aligned with company core values, and inclusive.  It's not enough to tell people once a year that they are doing well.  And, connecting the benefit to the company with praise makes it more meaningful and long-lasting.  Engagement is strongest when company values are an integral piece of everything the company commits to.  The inclusive piece is for those giving and receiving praise.    In addition, we talk about the importance of purpose, progress and belonging.  At Bonusly, they live what they profess.  They are very clear that culture is a continuous journey that can get better and better with an open mind to new ideas.  In addition, the company provides assistance in the measurement of increases in engagement and productivity.   For more information about Raphael and Bonusly Bonusly Website Bonusly on Twitter Raphael on LinkedIn   2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Today I am thrilled to come to you and talk about one of my favorite topics, Communication. You might have heard that communication is a soft skill. I always wonder how that can be. Without good communication skills, how can you collaborate with your colleagues, sell your product or service or learn new ideas? Communication is an essential skill. When someone calls it a soft skill I personally let them know that by calling it that it diminishes its significance. And that’s where we begin. You first need to see the importance of communication so you can give it the attention it deserves. Communication is defined as a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior. I am going to concentrate on word usage but don’t forget about your body language. It says a lot. Some people say up to 55% of the information we transmit is through our body language. Whether it is the choice of words we speak or how our face and body look, both of these aspects are often done on autopilot. That is where you can get into trouble. You need to THINK more about what you say and how you say it.    For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook 2 free months on Bonusly iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Jonathan Keyser used to be ruthless in the cut throat business of real estate.  He’s living proof that selfless service will transform a business to new successful heights.   His company, Keyser is the largest commercial real estate tenant representative firm in Arizona and one of the fastest growing in the country. Jonathan’s “selfless service” model resonates with corporations and individuals seeking a competitive edge to acquiring and maintaining clients.  Jonathan is a best-selling author of You Don’t Have to be Ruthless to Win: The Art of Badass Selfless Service. The book is about Jonathan’s journey and the success of changing your attitude and perspective. Jonathan is here to share his journey, mission, and “selfless service” model to empower each of us to succeed.   For more information about Jonathan: Jonathan's Website Follow Jonathan on Twitter Jonathan on LinkedIn Keyser Way on Facebook Book:  You Don't have to be Ruthless to Win 2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Today my guest is Christopher O’Donnell, Senior VP of Product at HubSpot.  HubSpot is a leader when it comes to inbound marketing and sales programs. Christopher was recently named one of the best product leaders of 2019.   HubSpot is a developer and marketer of software products for inbound marketing and sales. Its products and services aim to provide tools for social media marketing, content management, web analytics and search engine optimization. Christopher shares how HubSpot manages and evolves their customer driven internal culture.  When Christopher is not working, he is writing songs and playing guitar with his band, The Providers.     For more information about Christopher and HubSpot: HubSpot's Website HubSpot on Twitter Christopher on Twitter Christopher on LinkedIn HubSpot on LInkedIn   2 free months on Bonusly   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

What does it mean to you to be in a community?  Usually one aspect is that you have at least one common denominator.  The most familiar is location, like the neighborhood you live in.   What if you thought about your workplace as a neighborhood? Collaboration and Community create a sense of belonging. Humans have craved a sense of belonging ever since they lived in caves. Certainly, there are those who would rather be alone, but for the majority of us, there’s a comfort in being with others.   Working well with others and having the ability to collaborate, are skills you can learn and improve upon every day.   Being welcoming and willing are fundamental requirements for a well-functioning group.    For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Although I would have had Scott McKain as a guest, just for his voice, he is a consummate speaker, thinker and author.  Scott is a globally recognized authority on how organizations and professionals create distinction to attract and retain customers — and stand out in a hyper-competitive marketplace. Scott talks about his four cornerstones of distinction: Clarity Creativity Communication Customer Experience Focus Scott also shares his expertise on how to respect and support a company’s customer.  Don’t forget your best customers are your workforce.    Scott McKain’s vast experience is a gift to you when you listen to this episode.  Scott’s recent book, ICONIC: How Organizations and Leaders Attain, Sustain, and Regain the Ultimate Level of Distinction,” was recently named on Forbes.com as a TOP TEN BEST BUSINESS BOOK for 2018.  The first edition of his book, “Create Distinction: What to Do When ‘Great’ Isn’t Good Enough to Grow Your Business” was named by thirty major newspapers (such as the Miami Herald) as one of the “ten best business books of the year.”    For more information about Scott: Scott McKain Website The Distinction Institute Scott on Twitter Scott on LinkedIn Scott on Facebook Free Trial of DISTINCTION NATION   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

There just isn't enough celebration and recognition in our workplaces.  We spend way too much time thinking about what went wrong or what we can do better.  That’s important, but so is the other side.  You might think about how someone did a good job, but individuals don’t usually take the time to express it.  I think mainly because they just don’t think about it.  Like every subject I have been talking about, to change that behavior isn’t difficult, but it does take commitment and repetition.   Everyone wants a paycheck, but people also want to be acknowledged and feel they are valued. The research shows that to be true. Did you know loneliness has grown in epic proportions in our world and according to the Cigna U.S. loneliness index, Americans are the loneliest? There are many reasons for loneliness, but feeling invisible is a pathway to isolation both physically and emotionally. In the workplace, this is exasperated when companies don’t create an atmosphere for people to be recognized on a regular basis, not only by their leaders but by their peers.  A celebration can be weaved into everyday practices.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Karen Brown is CEO of Velocity Leadership Consulting.  She is an expert in the field of high performance and personal leadership.  Her mission is to work with leaders who are willing to conquer their limiting beliefs to grow themselves and their organizations.  She talks about the importance of whether leaders cast a shadow or shed light on their workforce.   Her belief is that the “Why” for team members must align with the company vision and mission. Unfortunately, many team members don't know they're why, and/or leaders perceptions of their knowledge is incorrect.  It is so important to have alignment.  That is what Karen Brown's expertise is all about.   This episode is chock full of valuable insights to propel your business forward.   Find out how to be a successful human being.   For more information about Karen and Velocity Leadership Consulting: Velocity Leadership Website Contact Karen Karen Brown on Twitter Karen on LinkedIn Velocity Leadership on InstagramBuy Unlimiting Your Beliefs Report a Good/Bad Leader   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Now I have the opportunity to speak to you about one of my favorite topics, attitude.  This is truly the one aspect of your life that you are entirely in control of. I highly suggest you utilize this personal power and accept it as a gift along with its responsibilities.  Once you realize you have expansive personal power over your attitude, then your feelings, your reactions, even your daily routines become a personal choice. If you’ve been living, as many of us do, allowing the rest of the world to shape your attitude, it can be a tough habit to change.  First, there’s acceptance of this pretty big superpower you have.   This may be your biggest hurdle.  So, don’t worry about it, it means you’re human.  It’s definitely going to take some time getting used to.  Taking control of your attitude is a life long journey.   Here are some questions to help you change your attitude to your advantage.  First of all, ask yourself whether you even pay attention to your attitude now.  If you do, think about how your attitude affects your work performance. If you don’t pay attention to your attitude, ask yourself what benefits you would discover if you did.  That is the way to find your own why. Why you might want to learn more about your own attitude and the behavior that follows, so you can take control of it more often. See the opportunities, the benefits and then move towards them.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Today my guest is Todd Hopkins founder and CEO of Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services.  I pride myself on finding different industries to have on this podcast to prove the point that it doesn’t matter what kind of business you are in or what size company you have….culture makes a difference in your success.   Todd understands that the people working for him have a life outside of their work and so his lunch and learn sessions are done to help his employees grow professionally and personally.  Dignity and respect are two key initiatives in their core values and he allows that to flourish by empowering his workforce to make decisions.   For more information about Todd and Office Pride: Office Pride Website Corporate Facebook Office Pride on Twitter Corporate on LinkedIn iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Paying attention and focus is a part of life that people in general don’t even think about.   Parts of your life become so automatic you never think about taking the time to listen to and actually see your own words or thoughts or deeds.  This automatic behavior can be very disruptive. In this episode I talk about the importance of paying attention and how to create a better habit of doing it.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Today my guest is Tevis Trower, founder and CEO of Balance Integration (BI).  She is truly a pioneer in the field of cultural transformation at work. Inspired by a deeper vision in which employees flourished at work, Trower humbly launched Balance Integration as a corporate yoga and mindfulness solution in 2002.  She has expanded Balance’s services into a broad spectrum of modalities to optimize humanity in the workplace. She helps shape thinking around the impact of culture on employee behavior and performance, and continues to change the landscape of corporate culture globally. At BI, their goal is to optimize humanity in the workplace.  Tevis has an uncanny way of integrating mindset with executive performance.   Her teams are currently serving clients across the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America.    For more information about Tevis and BI: Balance Integration Website Tevis on LinkedIn Balance Integration on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Julie Ann Sullivan here, your visionary leader for the day.  Today I am going to share with you ideas about how being more accountable creates more success.   Imagine what it would be like to work in an environment where no one did what they said they would do? Maybe you’ve worked in a place like that.  It’s pretty frustrating, right? Especially if you’re the responsible type.   Accountability is the willingness to accept responsibility for your actions.  You might think that this idea of accountability only comes into play when someone else doesn’t follow through on their commitment to you, or the team, or the company.  But what if you change your perspective and look at that word to be synonymous with responsibility. Then being accountable for outcomes gives you the opportunity to take credit for a job well done.     For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

My guest today is Michelle Hayward, CEO of Bluedog Design.  Bluedog Design is a business consulting firm focused on building company purpose, integrated strategy and innovation. The leadership team at Bluedog believes that they are in service to their employees and their culture. Their focus on their humans was a big reason I invited Michelle today.  Here are four ways that Bluedog supports their humans.  Curiosity U – funded learning programs because learning feels good! Parenting Support – Provide a guide and consultant to help with life’s everyday urgencies. Concierge – take away the pain of daily grinds like car washes, or dry-cleaning pickups and drop-offs Organization Navigation Tools – empower the individual to own their own growth journey by conquering known next steps in their progress   For more information about Michelle and Bluedog Design: Bluedog Design Website Bluedog on Twitter Bluedog on Facebook Michelle on LinkedIn iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

I was actually proud of myself from stepping back and taking my own advice I have given to so many others…which is; when you are full up and feeling burnout is very close, take some time to breathe.  If you miss what you were doing, go back, if you are relieved to have it behind you fill the void by taking another path.  I recently wrote to a friend, in business you are going to have a lot of brilliant ideas.  Some work, some don’t.  Some fill you up with masses of Joy and then one day they don’t.  They call that life.  Get used to it.  And here is the kicker, we can use that knowledge that we learn about ourselves to continue to be amazing instead of being stuck and falling into burnout.    For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

We haven’t fallen off the face of the earth.  Coming back September 4, 2019   For more information about Julie Ann: Julie Ann on Twitter Julie Ann on LinkedIn Julie Ann on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Our guest today is Dr. Nido Qubein.  Nido serves as the President of High Point University.  He came to this country with $50 and all of his success has been a process of education, fortitude and generosity.  My favorite quote of this episode is: when you train someone, you show them the how, when you educate someone you show them the why.  When you train someone, you show them what to do, when you educate someone you show them how to be. The factors that Nido uses at High Point University can be used in any business to build an amazing business culture.  Hear what his “Wow” experience is really like.   For more information about Sheila: High Point University Website Nido's Website Nido on Twitter   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

On this episode, I speak with Phil Cohen, founder and CEO of Cohen Architectural Woodworking.  His story is very different. His upbringing experience was filled with violence, suicide and drug and alcohol abuse.  Eventually, it grabbed him in. His journey to turn his life around, several times, created his unusual hiring practices and the creation of specific expectations of his workforce.  He has four D’s that can get you fired: drama, drugs, defects and dishonesty. Phil’s story is very different, which is why I invited him to join us.       For more information about Phil: Cohen Woodworking Website Godly Inspirations Company Facebook Page   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Leslie Tayne is the founder and managing director of the Tayne Law Group.  They specialize in consumer and business financial debt related services. Her idea of an open workspace creates a special comradery among her workforce.  She is very aware of the heartaches of her clients and how it affects her employees. Leslie’s empathy for her clients is a model for her workforce as well.  But it’s puppies in the workplace that brought me to this organization today. She has found that the puppies give her employees a mental break. Leslie’s top priority is to create a culture where people want to come to work and do their best.     For more information about Leslie and her business: Company Website Tayne Law Group on Twitter Leslie on LinkedIn Company Facebook Page   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Lee Smith is the founder and CEO of SalesFuel.   When doing research on the company and Lee, I was intrigued by his philosophy that every member of a company has an impact on sales.  I couldn’t agree more. That enlightenment is essential for great leaders to succeed AND the power it has for every member of the workforce is amazing.  Lee clearly understands to make any long-lasting changes in his workforce, it must start with himself. In this episode Lee touches on all four attributes that create a thriving business culture; Listening Open to New Ideas Lifelong Learning Safe Environment   For more information about SalesFuel: Company Website Follow on Twitter Follow on LinkedIn Follow on Instagram   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Shannon Adkins is a thought leader and CEO of this woman-owned, 100% employee-owned consulting company with a triple bottom line where people get to be themselves. After years of working for startups, tech companies, and in corporate America, getting her MBA, and starting a family, Shannon decided she wanted to work somewhere where she could be fully expressed as a mom, a volunteer, and a badass business woman.  The changes she initiated led to revenue doubling in 24 months, new offerings, new clients in new industries, new teams and leaders.  Shannon challenges herself to always ask “why,” and to make sure business solutions contribute to creating a world that works for everyone. Here is my favorite quote of Shannon’s, “That’s the thing about values. It’s not enough to believe in them, we have to take actions that support them every day.”   For more information about Future State: Company Website Future State on Twitter Future State on LinkedIn   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

My guest today is Jim Estill, owner and CEO of Danby Appliances.  Jim’s has an intriguing program that I wanted to share with our audience because helping people get a new start in life is a gift.  Jim philanthropic work most recently involved sponsoring 60 Syrian Refugee families. In 2018 Jim received the Order of Canada, which recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.  Just the kind of person I want to have on my show. He partly attributes his success to understanding that he doesn’t always have the best solution and allowing people the ability to do the right thing.   For more information about Danby and Jim: Danby's Website Jim's Website for Video and Blog Danby on Facebook Jim on LinkedIn Danby's on Instagram   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Michele McGough is the founder and CEO of Solutions4Networks(S4Nets).  Her past experience made her realize that the employees in the company she formed 20 years ago, needed to be happy and feel fulfilled.  She pays for her employee’s total health benefits, even a family and training is on her time and her dime. Collaboration is highly rated in her workplace where egos are left at the door.    For more information about Solutions4Networks and Michele: Company Website S4Nets on Twitter S4Nets on Facebook Michele on LinkedIn   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Brian Cristiano is the founder and CEO of Bold Worldwide, an ad agency which accelerates growth by telling a company’s story.  Like many companies, Bold Worldwide has a standard set of core values. However, at Bold, these core values have been developed by leadership along with the employees.  The result is a shared mindset and vision. This is a big reason I invited Brian today. Learn how Brian lost half his workforce to create a place where people want to be their best selves, including Brian.     For more information about Brian and Bold Worldwide: Bold Worldwide Website Brian & Bold on Twitter Bold Worldwide on LinkedIn Bold Worldwide on YouTube Brian Talks about Success with Ed Mylett   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

In November 2015, Australian brothers, James and Tristan Swanwick launched their sleep company, Swanwick Sleep and its blue light blocking glasses. James and Tristan wore the glasses the last hour before they wanted to sleep. The lens blocked the blue light and they got sleepier, quicker. They slept the entire night. They woke up refreshed with lots of energy James Swanwick is an Australian-American investor, entrepreneur, speaker, former Sports Center anchor on ESPN, host of The James Swanwick Show podcast and the author of The 30 Day No Alcohol Challenge. Forbes listed James as one of 25 Professional Networking Experts to Watch. It’s not really unique but their daily scrum, otherwise known as a daily huddle or stand up, has been the single most influential thing they have introduced to create an engaged workplace. Every day at 11am from Monday to Friday every member of their team gets on a video call and is encouraged to shout out one of their teammates for a job well done.

My guest today is Fanny Krivoy Founder/Chief Creative Officer of Analogous.  The company is a mission-driven consultancy that uses inclusive design strategy to help teams build strong scalable connections with the broadest possible client base through their brands, digital products and experiences.  Fanny believes in using the power of inclusive design to bring ideas that matter to life, whether it is to create a brand, design a product or build a team. By making brands inclusive throughout the organization, you can ensure that everyone's contributions are considered and everyone feels appreciated.  This type of company fosters an environment of innovation. For more information about Studio Analogous: Company Website Studio Analogous on Twitter Studio Analogous on Instagram LinkedIn Connection   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Josh Levine is an educator, designer, and best-selling author, but above all, he is on a mission to help organizations design a culture advantage. Josh is on a mission to help organizations design a culture advantage.  He helped create Culture LabX, which are global communities connecting like-minded individuals on the topic of the future of work.   Josh talks about rituals and how he utilizes them to help organizations build not only a great culture but one that is sustaining. Josh Levine’s new book, Great Mondays: How to Design a Company Culture Employees Love, presents the framework and tools business leaders need to understand, design, and manage their own culture.   For more information about Josh: Great Mondays Website Great Mondays on Twitter Great Mondays on Instagram   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

Our guest today is Brad Younggren, the Chief Medical Officer of 98point6, a company who delivers on-demand, text-based primary care.  From the battlefield to innovative approaches in primary care, Brad brings decades of experience to this organization. What is truly different about this organization is how they choose everyone in their company.  Whether you are a software engineer or a physician the process is the same. Your functionality includes being a contributing member of the entire company.   Their unique practices include bringing all their physicians into the corporate headquarters on a regular basis.  This allows discussions with the marketing team and the core developers so that everyone has a deep understanding of the company’s core values and how to live them.     For more information about Brad and 98point6: 98point6 Website 98point6 on Twitter Brad on LinkedIn 98point6 on Instagram   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

My guest today is Simone Morris.  Bright, articulate and downright nice human, Simone is a thought leader in Diversity and Inclusion and is a coach for returning service members. We talk about how inclusive networking can expand your success and the growth of your business.  Simone understands the difference between the diversity, the noun and inclusion, the verb. Her new book is called Achievement Unlocked – Strategies to Set Goals and Manifest Them.  As the title explains a goal is great, but manifesting them is better.   For more information about Simone: Simone's Website Simone on Facebook Simone on LinkedIn Simone on Instagram   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the world’s largest HR professional society, representing 300,000 members in more than 165 countries. For nearly seven decades, the Society has been the leading provider of resources serving the needs of HR professionals and advancing the practice of human resource management. That is a huge responsibility.  Emily M. Dickens, SHRM’s Chief of Staff shares their Guiding Principles with us and a peek into the future of SHRM. SHRM Guiding Principles: Bold Purpose Excellence & Accountability Flexibility & Agility Smart & Curious Collaborative Openness   For more information about Emily & SHRM: SHRM's Website SHRM on Twitter Emily on LinkedIn SHRM on Facebook   iTunes - Subscribe, Rate and Review Find us on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts