CompassCast

Episode 51 contains audio from the Founders Award Presentation that took place at the River Spirit Casino in Tulsa, OK on April 25th, 2018. The Founders Award is an award we give out annually to the General Manager that went above and beyond the call of duty.  This award is about more than hitting numbers or financial targets.  This is about the spirit, the heart and soul of US Beef.  These men and women represent the very best of US Beef and each one is a true Compass Champion. You'll hear each Director introduce their nominee and tell stories about their accomplishments.  Pay close attention to the level of Commitment, Humility, and Respect that each of the nominees showcased not only in 2017, but throughout their career. Truly an amazing accomplishment to be nominated and a very special moment for our overall winner. I hope you enjoy this episode of CompassCast! Call To Action: Use our SpeakPipe link to record a message of congratulations for our winner!  I'll make sure they receive it.   www.speakpipe.com/USBeef Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website and E-mail Signup US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag

Another great US Beef success story...Josh Spotz (newly promoted Area Director) started as a team member and now he finds himself working side by side with his mentor and current Regional Director of Operations, Karen Lynch.  This dynamic duo has a challenging road ahead.  In a market that has had its share of struggles, we now look to Karen and Josh to get us back on track in Kansas City.   In this episode, Josh walks us through his plans for the turnaround effort that is already underway.  He describes his early struggles as a District Manager and how a few chance encounters have shaped the way he leads today.   Also, Finish This Sentence makes its triumphant return to CompassCast.  Hope you enjoy! Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website and E-mail Signup www.speakpipe.com/USBeef- Leave me a voice message! www.usbcprimechoice.com/ - Prime Choice Website US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag

Part 2 with Lekeia Tutt and April Pepiot.  We get some more details on their Washington project.  We discuss how Compass and Prime Choice have impacted their leadership journey at US Beef.  April tells us what it felt like to see Keia receive the Founders Award Nomination for R4 and Keia has some advice for US Beef leadership which leaves Bo speechless.  :) Hope you enjoy Part 2!   Cheers! #Cornbread&Rice Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website and E-mail Signup www.speakpipe.com/USBeef- Leave me a voice message! www.usbcprimechoice.com/ - Prime Choice Website US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag

There is nothing little about the year these 2 ladies from Little Rock had in 2017.  In Part 1 of my interview with April Pepiot (District Manager) and Lekeia Tutt (General Manager), they walk us through the special projects they took on in 2017.  These ladies have a very tough job, so for them to volunteer and agree to take on more gives you a glimpse into the heart of these 2 Compass Champions.  From Washington (state), to Tulsa, and all over the state of Arkansas, these 2 have impacted so many employees and it's the effort and results from folks like Lekeia and April, that make US Beef what it is today.   Hope you enjoy Part 1!   Cheers! #Cornbread&Rice Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website and E-mail Signup www.speakpipe.com/USBeef- Leave me a voice message! US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag

Join us on I-40 East as Tim Bouma and I make our way to Little Rock. On the way we talk about our 2018 strategy. We discuss our new management model, the new hour,y manager positions, and our strong push toward improving our labor percent.  Tim also provides some great advice for staying locked in for March. Historically, sales go up in March but we’ve seen our hospitality scores go down. He tells us why that is and how we can avoid that in 2018. We wrap it up by discussing the regional General Managers meetings/awards, and, specifically, he shares his thoughts on the Founder’s Award.  Hope you enjoy! Links: CompassCast@gmail.com Leave me a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/usbeef The Coolest Swag: www.arbysswag.com US Beef Employee Facebook Page- Employees Only

Hello there friends!  I missed you! We are back with a preview of what you can expect from CompassCast this year.  Short and sweet. Call to Action: Ask me a question that you would like answered on a future episode of CompassCast by going to: www.speakpipe.com/USBeef Simply record your message, preview it (if you want), then submit it.   First person to send me a message via Speak Pipe gets a gift code for some sweet Arby's Swag!     Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website and E-mail Signup US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag

On episode 45, we get back to our roots with a good ol' fashion interview with Regional Director, Tom Johnson.  Tom describes his leadership style as "direct".  He discusses the pros and cons of deploying such a style and how he's adapted his style over the years.   As a student of VPO Syed Mansoor, Tom discusses Syed's influence on him throughout his career.  What's it like working in STL aka the 314?  Tom shares a few quirks of the city he knows so well.  He also provides some practical advice on how to get to know your people better and we wrap it all up with a riveting round of, "Finish This Sentence..." Hope you enjoy!  Cheers! BD Links: CompassCast Website and E-Mail Sign-Up CompassCast@gmail.com  Arby's Swag  

Here are the 5 podcasts that I've found to bring the most value to me, as a leader.  Click the links below to go to the website for each show or search for each podcast in your preferred podcast platform.  I hope you enjoy! 1.  The ONE Thing Podcast Episode Recommendations:  #74 and #91 2.  Hacking Your Leadership Episode Recommendations:  #8 and #17 3.  Radical Candor Episode Recommendations:  #14 and #17 4.  EntreLeadership Episode Recommendations:  #101 and #222 5.  oGoInsider Leadership Podcast Episode Recommendations:  #1 and #3 Cheers! BD Check out the website: www.compasscast.libsyn.com E-mail CompassCast: CompassCast@gmail.com Call to Action: 1.  E-mail CompassCast@gmail.com and tell me what podcasts you have found most beneficial.  Sharing is caring! 2.  What kind of episode would you prefer to hear to close out the year?  E-mail me and let me know.  Here are the options: A.  CompassCast 2017- Highlight Show Send me your favorite episode(s) and your favorite segments, questions, and responses.  Time stamps are greatly appreciated!  (Example: Episode 14 @ 15:23- This really helped me reengage in...)  B.  2018 Goal Setting- Best Practices How to take a look back at the previous year and chart a course for 2018.  Give me your best practices or the processes you use to set goals.   Email me with your vote and provide the supporting details!  

Episode 43 features John Davis' kickoff speech from our 2017 DM Conference.   Focus on the guest, focus on the basics, and "think like owners" are a few of the themes that John drives home.   Our investment in training and development has been significant.  We're lucky to have owners that support our employees through T&D efforts.  Even in tough years, the investment in your training and development has not once been cut.   He also discusses new stores and remodels in 2017 and our plan for 2018!  Buckle up US Beef!  We aren't slowing down! Have a fantastic week everyone! Cheers! BD Check out the website: www.compasscast.libsyn.com E-mail CompassCast: CompassCast@gmail.com Call to Action: 1.  E-mail CompassCast@gmail.com and tell me about your experience sharing bad (or unpopular) news with an individual or a group.  What's worked for you?  What hasn't?  What have you learned? 2.  What kind of episode would you prefer to hear to close out the year?  E-mail me and let me know.  Here are the options: A.  CompassCast 2017- Highlight Show Send me your favorite episode(s) and your favorite segments, questions, and responses.  Time stamps are greatly appreciated!  (Example: Episode 14 @ 15:23- This really helped me reengage in...)  B.  2018 Goal Setting- Best Practices How to take a look back at the previous year and chart a course for 2018.  Give me your best practices or the processes you use to set goals.   Email me with your vote and provide the supporting details!

Episode 42 is all about building a maintaining a strong bench.  Hear Izorah Tallent, Sr. Director of Operations, take you through his breakout presentation from the 2017 DM Conference in Tulsa, OK.   Call to Action: Email Izorah Tallent (itallent@usbeefcorp.com) and let him know what your key takeaways were from his breakout.  I want him to feel the CompassCast love!   Cheers! BD  

Happy Thanksgiving CompassCast Listeners!   Mixing it up a little this week...Episode 41 is all about making your life easier.  I'm sharing the 5 smartphone applications that I am most thankful for.  Most of these are my faves because they improve productivity or save time.  Check them out below (links to Google Play Store and Apple App Store for each app available below: Microsoft Outlook (Free) Microsoft Excel (Free) Audible (Free App with Subscription Service) Pocket Casts ($3.99) Pocket (Free- In-App Purchases available) App Links : 1. Microsoft Outlook (Android)  Microsoft Outlook (iOS) 2. Microsoft Excel (Android)  Microsoft Excel (iOS) 3. Audible (Android)  Audible (iOS) Audible Subscription Plans 4. Pocket Casts (Android)  Pocket Casts (iOS) 5. Pocket (Android)  Pocket (iOS)  Sharing to Pocket (General) Sharing to Pocket (Android) Sharing to Pocket (iOS) I hope you have a fantastic Thanksgiving!  No air biscuits during Thanksgiving Dinner! Cheers everybody! BD

Hello friends! Episode 40 is all about priorities.  Take a journey with me inside Tim Bouma's breakout from our 2017 DM Conference.  Tim takes you through Stephen Covey's 4-Quadrant Model to help you focus on the things that will add the most value to your life and to your teams.   He also provides thoughtful insight on getting to the root cause.  The EARS acronym is one that Tim has used for years...or should I say, yEARS!  LOL at myself.  Tim is relentless when it comes to uncovering truth, so buckle up and get ready to engage in more meaningful dialogue with your teams.   Here are the links to the videos I referenced in the episode: Stephen Covey- Big Rocks - Long Version Litmos Heroes- Big Rocks - Short Version Thanks for sticking with me for 40 episodes!  My 2017 goal has been achieved, but we're not done yet.  I'll be releasing the other breakouts over the next few weeks.    

Welcome to Movember!   Our DM Conference is taking place in Tulsa on November 7th and 8th and Episode 39 gets you primed and ready for what's to come.  I sit down with Tim Bouma, Izorah Tallent, and Rick Morris to talk about what you can expect at this year's event.   Also, I've grown a mustache.  November is now Movember, No Shave November, etc. and has become the one month out of the year that I grow facial hair.  This is a national campaign with men all over the country participating.  Most facial hair growth is connected to raising funds or awareness for men's health.  I think that is awesome!  I however, grow my stache to promote fun and ridiculousness in the workplace.  My mustache is absurd, but lovely at the same time.  It has a way of becoming a topic of conversation in several of the interviews, so I apologize for that...sorta.  My goal is to gain access into Tim and Syed's Mustache Club.  It's an elite group of facial hair aficionados and they are super stingy with membership requirements.  Fingers crossed! I hope you enjoy a very light-hearted and, at times, a downright silly episode of CompassCast.  Cheers! BD    

Jeff Turner, VP of IT for US Beef, stops by episode 38 of CompassCast to chat technology.  We talk about how a mistake on the part of a headhunter actually led to Jeff's hiring.  (What ever happened to Scott???!!!) Jeff tells us how he and his department take ownership of Compass and live out the core values in the work that they do.  We hop in Jeff's make-believe time machine and he gives us a glimpse of what the future holds for our industry.  With the ever increasing risk of identity theft and data breaches, what can you do to protect yourself?  Jeff Turner offers his advice.   Lastly, Jeff talks us through his system for being a great project manager.  This is worthy of note-taking my friends.   And it wouldn't be a true CompassCast without Finish This Sentence, so if you want to know if unplugging it and plugging it back in ACTUALLY works, check it out! Great insights from Jeff Turner, a true Compass Champion. Cheers! BD Links: CompassCast@gmail.com - E-mail http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ - Website US Beef Employee Facebook Page - Employees Only www.arbysswag.com - Arby's Swag Call to Action: Send in your questions for Jeff Davis, Chairman of US Beef, to CompassCast@gmail.com! Rate and review CompassCast on your preferred podcast app.  Take a screenshot of your review written after 10/30/17 and send it to CompassCast@gmail.com.  The first 5 listeners that do so will get a $20 gift code for some Arby's Swag!  Boom!  

Lindsey Cadle, DM Region 7, brings major heat on episode 37.  We talk about her journey to District Manager, what it was like winning the Founder's Award, and what she does to stay positive in this incredibly stressful role.   Lindsey shocks the world by revealing that the DM role can actually be fun!  We talk all about that, plus, how she drives Compass through recognition, a few of the struggles she had as a new DM, and we wrap it up with another round of Finish This Sentence. What is the craziest thing Lindsey has seen in a restaurant?  What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to her at work?  How can you tell if someone doesn't fit our Compass culture?  You'll have to listen to find out!   Thanks for listening and for all you do each and every day! BD Call to Action: E-mail me (compasscast@gmail.com) your tips for staying positive when you are under stress.  The first 5 people I hear from will receive a $20 gift code from our good friends at ArbysSwag.com aka The IceBox. Links: CompassCast Website and E-Mail Sign-Up CompassCast@gmail.com  Arby's Swag

Janell Colbert is the Regional Director of Region 6 and on Episode 36, she walks us through her leadership journey.  We discuss the ups and downs of personal growth and development, the consequences one faces if they fail to connect with their teams, and what you can do if you are currently stuck in a rut.  Janell is doing some amazing things right now and she's positively impacting hundreds of lives in her region...and beyond.  However, for Janell, it wasn't always easy.  Janell opens up and reveals some of the mistakes she made early on and provides some insight on how you can avoid some common leadership traps.  Great stuff from the Queen of the Ozarks!   Links: CompassCast Website and E-Mail Sign-Up CompassCast@gmail.com  Arby's Swag    

A Movie, A Bad Day, and an E-mail:  How 3 Ordinary Events Changed My Life This episode features a speech I gave to a group of approximately 150 young business leaders at the Young Businessmen of Tulsa Luncheon on October 9, 2017.   Hope you enjoy! I'd love your feedback:  CompassCast@gmail.com Thanks for all you do! BD

Buckle up buttercup!  We are back on the road!  This time, with Northern Colorado and Wyoming (Region 11) Regional Director of Operations, Deb Kendall.  We cruise from Brighton, CO to Windsor, CO and on the way we discuss all of the growth that is taking place in Region 11.  Deb, Bill Fritz (Area Director) , and all of their DMs have been extremely busy lately as they are in the process of opening 5 restaurants in 100 days!  Yikes! We discuss all of the wonderful things that result from rapid growth, but we also touch on some of the pesky pitfalls that can surface while so much attention is focused on the new restaurants.  Deb lays out the keys to a smooth restaurant opening, we talk Compass and the transition from The Bailey Company to US Beef, and we end with riveting round of Finish This Sentence. It's an action packed episode.  Hope you enjoy! BD Call to Action: E-mail CompassCast@gmail.com with your most effective recruiting tips.  I'm calling on the CompassCast audience to help others by developing a best practices guide to hiring and retaining top talent.  The first 5 responses will receive a $20.00 gift code from ArbysSwag.com!  Links: CompassCast Website and E-Mail Sign-Up CompassCast@gmail.com  Arby's Swag

In episode 33, we're talking hospitality.  When it comes to connecting with your guests, the most powerful weapon in your arsenal might be a well executed "table touch".  Following up on with our dine-in guests is a great opportunity to make a positive impact, but it also provides great conditions for learning more about your business.  In order to make the most of your trip to the lobby, you'll need some go-to questions and conversation starters.   That's what this episode is all about!   The episode is based off of an article I wrote for Prime Choice last year.  Earlier last week, Dustin Spotila (DM Region 6) asked me to send him the article so he could circulate it throughout R6.  We can always use a little more hospitality in our lives so I thought I would turn the article into an episode.   It's my first full solo episode...I hope you enjoy!   Call to Action: Ask at least one of the 5 questions on your next 5 shifts or restaurant visits.  Once you've done that, send me an e-mail at the address below and tell me about your experience.  What did you learn?  Was it awkward?  Will you continue to use those questions?  Also, feel free to send me any of your favorite questions to ask our guests.  The first 5 people that respond with the info listed above will win a $20 gift code from www.arbysswag.com.    Links: CompassCast Website and E-Mail Sign-Up CompassCast@gmail.com  Original Prime Choice Article  Arby's Swag Cheers! BD

Evan Uyetake is the President of Trost Marketing in Tulsa, OK.  While holding down the fort at Trost Martkeing he also finds time to host a podcast for the Young Businessmen of Tulsa. Through his podcast, Evan has been able to connect with several high-octane leaders and uncover a few of their secrets.  Episode 32 covers Evan's unique perspective and we discuss some of the juicy nuggets of wisdom he's collected from the leaders he has interviewed.   Stick around after the interview as I announce the winners of the survey contest.  Here is a link to the video of Izorah and Tim drawing the winners:  VIDEO Because you all are my favorite people ever, after the outro music fades, I've got the Finish This Sentence segment that Evan did on me when I was on the YBT Podcast.  Yikes... Cheers everybody! Links: Young businessmen of Tulsa- www.ybtok.com YBT Podcast (iTunes)- LINK YBT Podcast (Stitcher)- LINK Evan's Info:   LinkedIn Facebook CompassCast Links: Website and Mailing List Signup-  www.compasscast.libsyn.com  E-mail- CompassCast@gmail.com Arby's Swag/The Icebox- www.arbysswag.com    

Episode 31 brings Kristina Coffman (Regional Director- Wichita, KS) to the mic and we discuss the 3 ways she has driven Compass throughout Region 7. 1.  Connect Compass to Your Objectives 2.  Celebrate Compass Wins (Big and Small) 3.  Talk About It (DAILY!) Kristina is a top-notch leader and a true Compass Champion.  This episode is applicable for all US Beef employees, regardless of department or position.  There is also plenty of solid takeaways for any outsiders listening.  Have a great week everybody!   Cheers! BD Call to action: Take CompassCast Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/compasscast E-mail me about releasing CompassCast on Tuesdays from now on: CompassCast@gmail.com Show website and e-mail sign-up: www.compasscast.libsyn.com Arby's Swag: www.arbysswag.com  

Excerpt from our press release: Starting Monday, September 4, through Sunday, September 10, all US Beef owned Arby’s restaurants in nine states across the Midwest and western states, will be donating 10% of all brisket sandwich sales to the American Red Cross relief efforts emerging from Hurricane Harvey. The proceeds donated from these sales should generate approximately $50,000 in donations to the relief effort. Read the full release HERE Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief Efforts (from The Arby's Foundation): The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund of Houston’s mayor, Sylvester Turner, which is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Feeding Texas accepts donations directly online. The South Texas Blood and Tissue Centeris reporting a critical shortage. To donate, call 210-731-5590 or visit their website for more information. GoFundMe has created a page with all of its Harvey-related campaigns, including one started by the country singer Chris Young. YouCaring has a fundraising page set up by J. J. Watt of the Houston Texans. GlobalGiving’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund supports local organizations by helping to “meet survivors’ immediate needs for food, fuel, clean water, hygiene products and shelter.” It will also assist with longer-term recovery efforts. CompassCast Survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/compasscast  The Icebox www.arbysswag.com 

Come get naked with us!   Mike Todd stops by to provide a very unique perspective on US Beef's quest for cultural clarity.  He is a Partner, Lead Consultant, and Executive Coach at Learning Unlimited.  He's coached nearly every Ops Leader (ADO level and above) so he knows US Beef.   The key takeaway from this week's episode surrounds the 4 steps towards organizational health discussed in the Patrick Lencioni's book The Advantage.   1.  Build a cohesive leadership team 2.  Create clarity 3.  Over-communicate clarity  4.  Reinforce clarity In addition, Mike talks about how Compass came to life from his unique position as consultant and coach.  We also play a fun round of Finish This Sentence.   Thanks for listening! Next week:  Need Your Feedback!  Be ready to complete a quick survey for me!  Thanks in advance.  :) Links: Show's Website and email signup- www.CompassCast.libsyn.com  Learning Unlimited- www.learningunlimited.com  The Icebox- Arby's Swag Site- www.arbysswag.com   US Beef Corp Website- www.usbeefcorp.com  CONTACT ME- CompassCast@gmail.com 

Matt Strange (Regional Director) and Luke Barrón (Area Director) stop by to talk credibility.  Both of these gentlemen worked their way through our Fast Track Program, so they offer a very unique perspective of US Beef.  This is the condensed version.  If you'd like to listen to the full interview with Matt and Luke, you need to sign up for our mailing list at www.compasscast.libsyn.com Let me know what you think of this new format:  CompassCast@gmail.com Thank you to everyone who listens and engages with the show.  We passed the 10,000 download mark!!!  Amazing!  You guys are the best. Thanks for all that you do! BD  

Greetings Loyal Listeners! Welcome to Part 2 of our conversation with Robin Kellogg and Andy Widen from Wiley.    We cover a lot of ground in this episode.  We discuss: How to get the most out of DiSC The most common misuses of DiSC What the ideal team looks like How teams should interact using the tool How to determine the style of someone who hasn't taken the assessment We also reveal the answers to last week's call to action.  Here's what was sent out last week: Call to Action: Guess the style of Phoebe, Ross, Monica, and Joey from Friends!  Send in your responses to CompassCast@gmail.com.  First 2 people to correctly identify their styles (according to Robin and Andy) will get a $20 Gift Code to www.arbysswag.com!   Please reach out if you have any feedback for me:  CompassCast@gmail.com. Cheers! LINKS CompassCast Website: www.compasscast.libsyn.com  Books mentioned in the episode:   Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni 5 Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni   DiSC Workplace Sample Report: LINK Image of DiSC Map: LINK Learning Unlimited (US Beef's Authorized DiSC Partner): http://learningunlimited.com/ DiSC Unlimited (LU's sister site for all things DiSC): http://www.discunlimited.com/ Arby's Merch:  www.arbysswag.com (Check out the Vintage Meats Tee!) DiSC Info (Wiley's Website): http://everythingdisc.com/ 

Episode #26 brings our first "outsiders" to CompassCast.  DiSC Experts Robin Kellogg and Andy Widen take some time to talk with us about the DiSC assessment and how it can impact company culture.  We also discuss how DiSC supports our core values of Commitment, Humility, and Respect.   Whether you have taken the assessment or not, there is some great learning in this episode!   Top 3 Ways DiSC Can Drive Culture 1.  Improves self-awareness 2.  Gives you insight into the values and preferences of others 3.  Provides actual strategies for improving relationships Such a simple, yet powerful tool.  Hope you enjoy the episode! Next week, we will discuss some of the misuses of DiSC, the keys to creating an environment conducive to learning, and we'll play a fun round of Finish This Sentence!   Thanks for listening! BD Call to Action: Guess the style of Phoebe, Ross, Monica, and Joey from Friends!  Send in your responses to CompassCast@gmail.com.  First 2 people to correctly identify their styles (according to Robin and Andy) will get a $20 Gift Code to www.arbysswag.com!  Show Links: Image of DiSC Map: LINK Learning Unlimited (US Beef's Authorized DiSC Partner): http://learningunlimited.com/ DiSC Unlimited (LU's sister site for all things DiSC-related): http://www.discunlimited.com/ Arby's Merch:  www.arbysswag.com (Check out the Vintage Meats Tee!) DiSC Info (Wiley's Website): http://everythingdisc.com/     

The financial wizards, Brett Pratt (President) and Lori Pumphrey (Chief Financial Officer)  are here to provide their thoughts on the results from the Mid-Year Management Satisfaction Survey.  They also graciously answer a few questions from our listeners. Then, we shift gears as Brett and Lori give you 5 solid tips for gaining some stability over your personal financial situation.  Skip to about the 40:15 mark if you need those now!!!  :) And then we round it out, with everyone's favorite part of the show (ok, maybe just mine), Finish This Sentence!  Hope you enjoy!   Links: Webpage with all episodes and e-mail sign-up:  www.compasscast.libsyn.com Best Arby's Swag on the Planet:  www.arbysswag.com This week's email announcement: LINK Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown: LINK

On the road with Rick and Tim!  Episode 24 is focused on the Top 5 Mistakes New Leaders Make and the upcoming strategic planning sessions.  There is something for everyone in this episode...We talk about providing coaching, what these guys like to do outside of work, and pig innards.  Yes...pig innards.  Hope you enjoy!  The episode I mean...not pig innards. There is still time to submit your questions for Brett Pratt and Lori Pumphrey.  Send them in to CompassCast@gmail.com and if I read it on the episode, I'll send you a $20 gift code to www.arbysswag.com courtesy of our good friends at The Icebox!  Boom! They have just put some new stuff on their site and it is awesome!   Have a great week!  Stay cool! BD www.compasscast.libsyn.com- Website and Mailing List Sign-Up  

Welcome to Part 2 with Little Rock Regional Director, Jeremy McGraw.  We are headed back to Conway, AR and Jeremy and I tackle the following topics: Challenges faced as a new multi-unit manager Keys to Region 4's recent success What Jeremy is most proud of Our very first Star Trek reference on CompassCast! How the team in R4 approaches clarity and how they support one another Interesting tidbit about Jeremy's past And, of course, Finish This Sentence. Thank to everyone who stepped up and sent in your tips for work/life balance!  All 5 codes have been distributed, but there will be more opportunities to win on future episodes. I will be sitting down with Brett Pratt (President) and Lori Pumphrey (CFO) in a few weeks to discuss the key takeaways from the Summer 2017- Manager Satisfaction Survey.  Send your questions for Brett or Lori to CompassCast@gmail.com.  If I use one of your questions on the episode, I will send you a $20 Gift Code to arbysswag.com.   Thanks for listening! Episode Links: CompassCast Website (e-mail sign-up): http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ Alanis Morissette/James Corden- Ironic (2017 Version) Arby's Swag- https://arbysswag.com/ 

Welcome to Part 1 of my interview with Jeremy McGraw, Regional Director of Operations for Region 4 (Little Rock).  It's another "On the Road" style CompassCast and we cover lots of ground on Episode 22.  Here is a breakdown of the episode: (0:28)-  Episode Intro (1:54)-  Interview Intro (2:35)-  How Jeremy ended up at US Beef and personal background (5:21)-  When Jeremy knew he wanted to build his career at US Beef (7:11)-  When Jeremy realized that some tough feedback from Karen Lynch was exactly what he needed to hear (8:08)- After a short stint away from US Beef, Jeremy returns and learns some valuable lessons that led to his promotions (9:58)-  How Jeremy ended up in Little Rock (11:11)-  Mental approach as the Director position became a more realistic possibility (13:49)-  Where Compass has made the greatest impact on Jeremy (15:20)-  Aspects of Compass that really jumped out to Jeremy when he was first introduced to it (17:07)-  Jeremy's advice for those that might struggle with humility (18:33)-  Key takeaway! (21:25)-  Listener Question:  Work/Life balance (25:04)-  STOP-  COMPASSCAST CHALLENGE (27:24)-  Jeremy's work/life balance tips (28:25)-  Listener Question:  Impactful restaurant visits (35:20)-  Listener Question:  Something Jeremy looks for in every restaurant (36:36)-  Outro (37:37)- CompassCast Challenge reminder This week's CompassCast Challenge: Send your Top 3 Work/Life Balance Tips to CompassCast@gmail.com  The first 5 listeners to do so will get a $20 gift code to be redeemed at www.arbysswag.com      

"Young Guns" Welcome to episode 21 of CompassCast!  Today, you'll get to hear from Anna Trosper and Brett Thomas, they are both millennials and they are currently serving as District Managers in the Tulsa market.  I asked them to help us crack the code on working with the younger generation.  They discuss how college has helped them in their career and they talk about the things that college does not prepare you for.  A few questions sent in from a listener guide us in discussions around uncovering the core values during an interview, getting those behaviors to the surface with a new employee, and how to work Compass into your everyday coaching.   And we close it out with a very memorable "Finish This Sentence"...   Find out their most embarrassing moments at US Beef, the first thing they do when they walk into a restaurant, and finally, what they hope Jeff Davis gets for his birthday.  Hilarious! Selfie Challenge is still on!  Check out the show description in Episode 20 with Karen Lynch for complete details or send your questions to CompassCast@gmail.com.   Happy 4th of July everybody!  'MERICA!!!!

Last week I told you to tell me which Director you wanted me to interview, and Karen Lynch, Area Director of Operations in Kansas City, won by a HUGE margin.   On this week's episode, we learn about how Karen came to work for US Beef and how we could have easily missed the opportunity to hire her.  We talk about her experience opening restaurants and how she was able to move up in the organization by helping out when needed.  She also tells us about the first time she met Jeff Davis, owner of US Beef, and we laugh about how that interaction could have gone horribly wrong had she reacted differently.   I've done my best to avoid having guests on CompassCast that have any knowledge of my performance when I was first starting out in management...but my streak ends at Episode 20.  Karen shares a couple of stories about working with me as a trainee when we opened Nixa, MO back in 2005.   A fun episode with a fantastic lady who has influenced the careers and lives of so many people...add me to that long list.   So, in the spirit of influence, Karen has issued a "Selfie-Challenge".  She wants you to track down someone at US Beef that has played a large role in your success or development, tell them how they've impacted you, and take a selfie with them. Send your selfies to CompassCast@gmail.com and be sure to include a story that illustrates how this person has impacted you and your career.  The first 3 people that send in selfies (with their story) will get a $20 off coupon code from our buddies at The Icebox.  This code can be redeemed for some killer Arby's swag that's available on www.arbysswag.com.  Not only will the first 3 selfies get a code, but I will also choose 2 of my favorite selfies/stories and they will receive a code as well.  That's 5 codes in all!  Big thanks to The Icebox for showing CompassCast some serious love.   Stay proud, stay strong, and let Compass be your guide. Cheers! BD CompassCast:  http://compasscast.libsyn.com The Icebox: http://www.iceboxcoolstuff.com  Arby's Swag:  https://arbysswag.com  Karen and Bo Selfie: CLICK HERE    

We mix it up again this week as I record the first conversation I've ever had with our new Field Marketing Representatives, Jennifer Breedlove and Lisa Owens!  Both ladies started working for US Beef on Monday, June 12 and we are so lucky to have them on board.  I was able to sit down with both of them on Wednesday to chat about company culture and some of their good (and not so good) experiences.  Lynn Modisette set this up as an informal discussion as part of their orientation, but the tides quickly turned as I asked these strangers if I could record our conversation and turn it into an a CompassCast episode.  With only slight hesitation, they agreed and the end result is Episode 19!  Hope you enjoy. Welcome to the family ladies! Want to learn more about Jennifer and Lisa?  Check out their Facebook Pages: Jennifer Breedlove Lisa Owens CompassCast Info: Send me your feedback:  CompassCast@gmail.com  The CompassCast Website (sign up for the mailing list):  http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ Bo's Info: Twitter LinkedIn Thanks for all that you do!  Keep listening and sharing!   Cheers everybody!  

Welcome to Part II of my interview with Kim Jones (RDO of Region 9) and Nathan Grosse (DM of Region 9).  This week we drive up I-49 North in Northwest Arkansas and we discuss: How Compass has helped us as an organization How we can lean on Compass when we are short-handed What I feel like the greatest recruiting tool is in each restaurant Finally, we wrap it up with a new edition of "Finish This Sentence"   Send me your feedback:  CompassCast@gmail.com  Check out an AMAZING collage of Nathan and Kim pulled from our GM Conference Video:  HERE The CompassCast Website (sign up for the mailing list):  http://compasscast.libsyn.com/ Bo's Info: Twitter LinkedIn Thanks for all that you do!  Keep listening and sharing!   Cheers everybody! BD

We have a new logo and a totally new approach to an episode!   CompassCast goes on the road for Episode 17!   Join me as we travel down I-49 South in Northwest Arkansas with Region 9 RDO, Kim Jones and Region 9 DM, Nathan Grosse.  We talk about the staffing challenges in NW Arkansas, how R9 has come together as a team, how to be approachable as a multi-unit leader when visiting restaurants, and you'll want to hold on to your hats as we survive a close encounter with a freight train...sort of.  :)   Let me know what you think of the new logo:  CompassCast@gmail.com Here are a few of the links I mention in the episode:   Prime Choice Program:  www.USBCPrimeChoice.com Learning Unlimited:  www.learningunlimited.com 5 Behaviors of a Cohesive Team: http://www.fivebehaviors.com/About.aspx Thanks for all that you do!  Keep listening and sharing!   Cheers everybody! BD

One of our strategic anchors at US Beef is to "Hire, Train, Develop, and Retain Top Talent."  Jennifer Lopp our Recruiting Manager stops by to talk about interviewing techniques, what you need to do to stay staffed throughout the summer, and how Compass has influenced her sales pitch with potential employees.  She also takes her turn on Finish This Sentence!  What's the weirdest interview question she's ever asked?  How many resumes has she looked at so far this year?  Plus a special bonus question sent in from a listener.  It's another jam-packed episode.  Hope you enjoy! I'd love for you to send me your favorite interview questions!  Send them to CompassCast@gmail.com, hit me up on LinkedIn, or Twitter. Thanks for all that you do!  Keep listening and sharing!   Cheers everybody! BD

Wanted to do something a little different for Memorial Day.  Our next full episode will be released tomorrow, May 30th, featuring an interview with Jennifer Lopp, our Recruiting Manager.   As always, feel free to reach out to CompassCast@gmail.com or go check out http://compasscast.libsyn.com/contact to send us a quick message.   Thank you so much for listening! Cheers!

John Davis, Co-Owner & Chief Executive Officer, stops back by CompassCast for Part 2!  Episode 14 was very much dedicated to the exciting acquisition news as US Beef grew by 10 restaurants last week!  Episode 15 focuses more on the early years of US Beef, John's path to CEO, and we introduce a new segment called, "Finish This Sentence..." You want to know the top 5 things John looks for when entering a restaurant?  What's the best advice John has every received?  Does John supply us with a little dirt on his brother, the Chairman???!!!  You'll have to find out by listening to Episode 15 of CompassCast.   Your challenge again this week: LEAVE US A REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS!  It is super simple and it really helps people find CompassCast.  Last week I challenged us to get to 10 by the end of the week...we made it to 3.  We can do better!   Let's get to 10 by the end of this week!    HERE'S HOW TO WRITE A REVIEW FROM A DESKTOP: Click this link:  LINK It might automatically load iTunes, but if not click "View in iTunes" From iTunes make sure you click:  Ratings and Reviews Then Click to Rate (1-5 Stars) Then Click "Write a Review" HERE'S HOW TO WRITE A REVIEW FROM YOUR PHONE: Check out this step by step guide:  LINK That's it!  Couldn't be easier! Cheers! BD

John Davis, US Beef's Co-Owner & Chief Executive Officer, stops by on Episode 14 to deliver some very exciting news!  The US Beef Family has grown in size as we've expanded our territory through an acquisition of 10 restaurants.  Hear all about our newest Region, our amazing training teams that are on the ground making good things happen, and hear John deliver a heartfelt message to our newest employees about the US Beef Compass.   On Episode 14, you'll hear John talk about what he looks for when he's trying to decide whether or not to buy new locations.  He'll also provide a little insight as to what Syed Mansoor, VP of Ops, was like as a Team Member.    This is Part 1 of 2 with John Davis.  Part 1 will be focusing on the recent acquisition and Part 2 will focus on the early years of US Beef and John's take on the US Beef Compass.  Back-to-back episodes with an owner and CEO???!!!  Where else can you get that??!!  Only on CompassCast my friends... Have a question you want me to ask John?  Send it to CompassCast@gmail.com and I'll try to work it into the interview! Your challenge this week:  leave us a review on iTunes or on whatever service you are using to listen to the podcast!  It is super simple and really helps people find CompassCast.  We currently only have 1!!!!  Can we get to 10 by the end of the week?!  HELP US OUT!!! I hope all the moms out there had a fantastic Mother's Day!  What would we do without you??!! Cheers! BD

Kari Bowman, Employee Development Manager, stops by on Episode 13 to give us some specific things we can do to help us stay positive.  Even those that are seemingly always positive need a boost from time to time.  Kari lays out some practical tips to get those positive vibes flowing!   We talk through an article that Kari wrote for the May edition of The Leading Edge. Here is a link to Kari's article: 3 Ways to Positively Impact Other People  No plea from me this week to reach out...all I ask is that you check out the article and get back to Kari! Thanks everyone!  Have a great week! Cheers! BD

Kurtis McKinney has a fairly familiar story here at US Beef.  He started as an assistant manager and through his Commitment, Humility, and Respect, he now finds himself as a District Manager in Region 6...and a darn good one.  Join us for Episode 12 of CompassCast and hear Kurtis tell his story.  He talks about how he struggled with confidence and what helped him overcome those struggles.   Region 6 is where the Peer-To-Peer Program got started and Kurtis was one of the original support coaches.  Hear Kurtis talk about the impact of mentoring others.   Kurtis is a Prime Choice Class 2 Honorary Graduate and he's a sponge when it comes to personal and professional growth and development.   This dude is Commitment, Humility, and Respect all rolled into one.  Hope you enjoy! If you have feedback for the show, please reach out to CompassCast@gmail.com.   I know there are people all over US Beef that are making good things happen.  We want to know about it!  Send your shout-outs to CompassCast@gmail.com. Have a great week everyone and as always, let Compass be your guide. Cheers! BD To hear previous episodes of CompassCast visit: www.compasscast.libsyn.com From there you can also sign up for our mailing list!

Lynn Modisette stops by on a very busy Monday for our restaurants.  Lots of changes taking place as we transition to our May promo window.  Lynn tells us what she and her team do to prepare for the launch of the new promotion...but this month is different.  Menu labeling or displaying the calories for every item starts today and we talk about how that might impact our brand.  Some new packaging, some familiar favorites get new names, and find out why in the world Bo would ever use the word "pizazz". Lynn is a true leader and a Compass champion.  We thank her so much for stopping by on such a busy day.   If you have feedback for Lynn or her team regarding this month's rollout, please reach out to CompassCast@gmail.com.  Lynn is a trooper and is always down for some constructive feedback if it will make us better, but I'd also encourage those that had a great experience with this launch to reach out.  I'd love to flood the marketing team's inbox with positive mojo!  Send your shoutouts to CompassCast@gmail.com.   Have a great week everyone and as always, let Compass be your guide. Cheers! BD

Episode 10.5-  CompassCast will be released later than normal this week due to a personal matter with Episode 11's guest, Lynn Modisette.  This episode will give you a quick preview of you can expect when Lynn and I have a chance to sit down and discuss the marketing department, al of the changes that are happening in the next week, and, of course, the US Beef Compass.  Episode 11 should be released some time on Monday evening or before my bed time on Tuesday :)   Thanks for listening!  Cheers! BD

Episode #10 of CompassCast is a doozer.  Rick Morris, Sr. VP of Operations, joins me for an interview as we wrap up our core value series.  As usual, Rick brings his passion for US Beef and our employees to the interview as he tells some amazing stories that I know you'll enjoy.  There are some dynamite takeaways from this one so you might want to take some notes.   The directors are in town this week, so send an e-mail to CompassCast@gmail.com by Wednesday the 19th and let me know who you would like for me to interview for episode 11 which will be released on April 24th!  What do you want to know about them?  Now is your chance!   CompassCast listeners, tragedy has struck 2 members of the US Beef Family this past week.  Marcus Pressler, a maintenance tech in Region 5, lost his wife Amy and Brian Keith, GM of unit 7657, also in Region 5, lost his 22 year old son Zakkery.  Our deepest sympathies and most heartfelt condolences go out to our family members in the Kansas City area.  If you would like to donate to either (or both families) I've included links to their GoFundMe pages below.  Every little bit helps.  If you can't give, share it on social media.  Both families could use our help.  Thank you! Amy Pressler (Marcus)-  https://www.gofundme.com/amy-presley-memorial  Zakkery Wiebusch (Brian)- https://www.gofundme.com/zakkery-wiebusch-burial 

This week we sit down with Tim Bouma, VP of Operations.  We tackle some hard hitting topics including solving problems by getting to the root cause, what to do when a new employee doesn't seem to fit in, how the different styles of the VPs impact their decision making, and...mustaches???!!!  Why not?  Let's get weird.     Still need you all reaching out to CompassCast@gmail.com with your suggestions or your list of behaviors that embody the core values.  What does commitment look like?  Describe some humble behaviors that you have observed in someone else lately.  How can you show respect to our fellow employees, our vendors, and our guests?  Send them my way!  I've received a few recommendations but not near enough!     Want to give Tim a shoutout?  Send it to CompassCast@gmail.com and I will pass it on.  Thanks for listening everybody!   Let the Compass be your guide! Cheers! BD 

This week we talk with the man who started as a team member, but currently serves US Beef as a Vice President of Operations...Syed Mansoor. Get your pen and paper ready because Syed is going to deliver some killer takeaways throughout the episode that you have jot down! Be sure and stick around after the outro music to hear a cool story that Syed tells about Jeff Davis, our chairman. This is part one of our Core Values Series with the VPOPS, so make sure to tune in next week when I'll be sitting down with Tim Bouma. I need you to e-mail your questions for the VPs to: CompassCast@gmail.com What do you want to know about them? What do they look for when they visit one of our restaurants? What is the craziest thing they have ever seen in a restaurant? Does Rick feel left out because he is the only VP of Ops without an amazing mustache? Also, I want us to develop a list of 100 ways we can live out each of the core values. I'm asking CompassCast listeners to send their suggestions to the email above. Send me 1, 2, or 10, I don't care, just send them! Have a great week everybody and thanks for listening! Let Compass be your guide! Cheers! BD

Greetings CompassCast Fam!   I'm working on something...but I need your help!  Over the next few weeks we are going to do a "deep dive" into our core values with the VPs of Operations.  Send any and all questions you want me to ask them to: CompassCast@gmail.com What do you want to know about them?  Maybe...What do they look for when they visit one of our restaurants?   What is the craziest thing they have ever seen in a restaurant?  Does Rick feel left out because he is the only VP of Ops without an amazing mustache?   Let me know!   Also, I want us to develop a list of 100 ways we can live out each of the core values.  I'm asking CompassCast listeners to send their suggestions to the email above.  Send me 1, 2, or 10, I don't care, just send them!     When you e-mail CompassCast@gmail.com you will receive a reply that contains a link to sign up for CompassCast notifications!  Make sure you click that link and get signed up so you know when we release new episodes!     Have a great week everybody and thanks for listening!   Let Compass be your guide!   Cheers! BD

We mix things up a bit on Episode 6 of CompassCast...it's story time.  With the help of Colleen Lacombe (DM Region 10), Mark Hensley (ADO Region 10), and Troy Smith (RDO Region 10), we will recap one of the most memorable moments from the 2017 GM Conference and share the story that everyone is talking about.    After hearing this week's episode, if you want to give Colleen a "shout-out" for living Compass like a champ, shoot me an email at the e-mail address below.   In addition, please send your feedback and suggestion to:   CompassCast@gmail.com.    Thanks for listening!   Cheers!

On Tuesday night, March 7, US Beef crowned its 2016 Founder's Leadership Award Winner.  This year it was Brenda Rockrohr from Joplin, MO out of Region 9.  Here is what her RDO, Kim Jones, wrote about Brenda on her nomination form: "Brenda is committed to the success of all levels of management for her restaurant and her region.  She's a US Beef Certified Training Manager and a Nationally Certified Trainer.  This year she helped train the new managers for our successful Chanute, KS opening, and has also helped in new store openings in Regions 7 and 10.  She has helped teach MTP Basics, presented in front of her peers at GM Meetings, and successfully graduated from Prime Choice Class 2.  She is a no excuse manager, she does not point fingers, and she owns her accountability.  Her colleagues call her selfless and she has an "all in" attitude for any new task.  She not only owns the opportunities and successes of her restaurant, but she also realizes that she is an integral part of Region 9 and US Beef's success."   Well said Kim Jones.  I hope you enjoy my interview with Brenda Rockrohr.    Please send your feedback and suggestion to:   CompassCast@gmail.com.    Thanks for listening!

On episode #4 of CompassCast Brett Pratt, President of US Beef joins us. We touch on several topics including how to make the most out of the GM Conference, how to utilize Compass when interviewing job seekers, the impact of applying Compass principals in your personal life, plus much, much more. Thanks to everyone for listening, subscribing, and sharing CompassCast. Hope you enjoy my convo with Mr. Pratt. Cheers gang!

Keith Bell, our Director of Field Training, joins us on the third episode of CompassCast.  We talk about all of the exciting things going on in the Training Department including the Training Summit that just wrapped up in Tulsa.  And, of course, we'll be talking Compass and Keith shares with us a story that truly exemplifies the US Beef Culture.  Enjoy!