People Business w/ O'Brien McMahon

Julie Jones is a business protocol and etiquette expert, sought-after public speaker, corporate trainer, and educator. She is certified by the Protocol School of Washington. Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Julie's work on her website, Today's Professionals: https://www.todaysprofessionals.com/Julie's profile on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealjulieajonesFollow Julie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjulieajones/_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) Introduction to Julie Jones.(01:55) What is protocol and business etiquette?(04:50) What's the difference between extroversion and connecting with others?(06:34) What is involved in modern etiquette?(11:00) Why do first impressions matter?(19:53) What is your reaction to the idea of bringing your whole self to work?(25:22) "Act as pretty as you look."(28:28) Image vs. brand: what's the difference?(35:34) How do you align your personal brand with the company brand?(43:39) Values: show up for others; align with the company; seek what's best.(44:41) How do we help others get what they want out of life?(46:52) Where can people contact Julie Jones?

Dave Moore is a partner at Laner Muchin and the firm's Employment Litigation Department Co-Chair. While Dave spends much of his time defending employers in employment litigation of all shapes and sizes, he has focused much of his 20+ years as an employer lawyer on keeping employers out of the courtroom. Dave has been recognized among Illinois Super Lawyers and Leading Lawyers in 2024 and 2025. Dave was also recognized by the National Law Journal as an Elite Trailblazer in 2022 for work with employers during the COVID-19 pandemic.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Dave Moore on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moore-5b2b58aDave's profile at the Laner Muchin firm: https://www.lanermuchin.com/attorneys-david-mooreListen to the People Business episode with Cash Nickerson: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/cashnickerson/_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) – Welcome to People Business(00:17) – Introducing Dave Moore, employment attorney(04:37) – What are the most common employment legal issues? (08:59) – What are documentation best practices?(15:22) – How do employers navigate Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations? (21:11) – How do mental health ADA accommodations work?(25:41) – What risks are associated with terminating an employee and what are best practices for termination?(30:01) – When should a workplace contact their attorney?(32:43) – Role-playing difficult conversations with clients?(34:19) – Navigating remote and hybrid work policies(38:12) – Addressing employee relocation and “secondary” jobs(43:53) – Unionization: hearing whispers or is a campaign underway?(52:14) – Are governmental changes impacting employment law? What trends are ahead?(01:00:29) – Practical advice and closing thoughts

Amber Pandya loves to help people and businesses thrive. She proves this every day in her role as Senior Director of Employee Experience at G2, where she helps employees reach their PEAK. Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Amber Pandya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberpandyaAmber's profile on G2: https://learn.g2.com/author/amber-pandyaPEAK—Performance; Entrepreneurship; Authenticity; Kindness. Learn more about G2 and their PEAK culture: https://company.g2.com/about_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) – Welcome to People Business(02:23) – What do you do at G2?    (03:34) – What is G2?  (08:17) – What are the key differences and similarities between working in-house versus consulting?  (12:55) – Please explain G2's "PEAK" values?  (19:16) – What organizational factors does Amber see as blockers to employee performance, either at G2 or in other companies?  (24:34) – How easy or difficult is it to remove a process once it has been implemented at G2?  (27:54) – How does G2 balance its Kindness value with a Performance-Driven culture?  (33:03) – What does authenticity mean at G2? How do you think about bringing your "whole self" to work?  (37:00) – How does G2 personalize and maintain its culture as it scales to a larger organization?  (41:11) – What is an INPS (Inclusion Net Promoter Score), and how does G2 use it alongside other data?  (43:36) – Why is the Net Promoter Score (NPS) considered valuable?  (47:39) – Who creates the actionable steps in the Voice of the Employee report? How do they assist leaders in improving performance and experience?  (48:41) – What AI system does G2 use to synthesize employee data?(52:09) – Mic drop: What impact can HR have on business performance?  

Michael Cupps is a productivity expert who has been in technology sales and marketing for over thirty years. He learned the importance of productivity from an early age due to his upbringing on a farm in Texas, which taught him the value of hard work, prioritization, and managing time wisely. Michael applies these lessons to his work helping individuals and teams to make the most of their time and priorities. He is also the host of The Habit Architect podcast and founder of the Time Bandit. Michael's book and mobile app, Time Bandit, is the ultimate guide for those looking to leave behind chaotic and unmanageable to-do lists and ultimately reclaim their time to live a more balanced and productive life.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Michael Cupps and his Time Bandit system, including the app, book, and his podcast. Website: https://www.timebandit.io/indexConnect with Michael Cupps on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcuppsLearn how to make GPT prompts work for you! Jeff Su and his video on making prompts: https://youtu.be/jC4v5AS4RIM?si=3eX0vE3_YvA_bLOs | Jodie Cook shares prompts for small business: https://www.jodiecook.com/chatgpt-prompts-for-entrepreneurs/Tricia Sanders on the People Business podcast: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/triciasanders/The Checklist Manifesto book: https://a.co/d/3W40pZBAddiction help at SMART Recovery: https://smartrecovery.org/_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) – Welcome to People Business(02:04) – How did you become a time management expert?(04:59) – What commonalities do you see in time management that doesn't work? (06:59) – The Eisenhower Matrix explained.(12:20) – Leveraging AI for productivity.(17:01) – What advice can you give people on establishing habits? (25:56) – The value of accountability partnerships.(34:49) – How the Eisenhower Matrix works in practice.(38:15) – How can managers and staff have productive conversations about priorities? (43:52) – How can teams adopt effective habits?(46:26) – Breaking addictive habits.(51:17) – Contact Michael Cupps and final thoughts on habit building.

Keren Eldad is the author of Gilded: Breaking Free from the Cage of Ambition, Perfectionism, and the Relentless Pursuit of More. She specializes in taking high achievers out of the futility of constant pursuit and into their greatest levels of success and fulfillment. Her coaching clients include Olympic athletes, politicians, Hollywood stars, supermodels, Special Forces operatives, and serial entrepreneurs. Keren is a former C-suite executive who has lived and worked in 17 countries and on four continents, and who now coaches leaders all around the globe in four languages: English, Spanish, Hebrew, and French. Mentioned on the ShowKeren's website: https://kereneldad.com/home/Connect with Keren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keren-eldadKeren's book, Gilded: Breaking Free from the Cage of Ambition, Perfectionism, and the Relentless Pursuit of More: https://a.co/d/2D8JJGeThe Status Game by Will Storr: https://a.co/d/4MgVu2J10x is Easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan: https://a.co/d/7iQ0HivRichistan by Robert Frank: https://a.co/d/745PSeZGood by Jocko Willink: https://youtu.be/IdTMDpizis8?si=Etj6h7iQx2X8BVcFThe Man in the Arena, excerpt from Teddy Roosevelt: https://youtu.be/A311CnTjfos?si=tx-9Jz5zjllcRkcg_______________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(2:40) - Meet Keren Eldad.(2:58) - How did you come to do the work that you do today?(9:18) - Why are overachievers reluctant to admit they're overachievers?(10:38) - What's the difference between healthy and unhealthy achievement?(16:51) - What does it mean to want to become "nobody"?(18:47) - How do you coach people to let go of status without losing the natural achiever desires?(26:04) - How does a person rein in their ego and stop playing the status game?(33:01) - What is and what isn't self-acceptance?(38:41) - How do you help people break up with anger?(50:35) - What do people get wrong about happiness?(54:25) - How do we cultivate more of a service mindset?(55:03) - True purpose: Climbing the "second mountain".(57:33) - Final thoughts for overachievers.

Lilly Lin is an Executive Director with Russell Reynolds where she advises clients on broad talent management issues, including succession, leadership development, and assessment. Throughout her career, Lilly has worked with large and small, for-profit and mission-based organizations, establishing herself as a trusted advisor who is highly skilled in preparing clients for their near- and long-term succession needs. She is an active member in the Society for Industrial Organizational Psychology and is often chairing or speaking at SIOP's annual conference.Mentioned on the Show:Lilly's profile on the Russell Reynolds website: https://www.russellreynolds.com/en/people/consultant-directory/lilly-linConnect with Lilly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillylin1The Roy Family – a cautionary succession tale: https://www.hbo.com/successionThe New CEO by Ty Wiggins (book): https://a.co/d/7xQj5yn________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(1:30) – Meet Lilly Lin of Russell Reynolds(3:29) – What is succession planning?(5:08) – Does succession planning include planning for leaders below the CEO?(7:53) – Why is changing out the leader so hard for an organization?(11:11) – Is it always a good idea to have a successor ready to take over?(16:42) – Successor talent pools.(17:25) – Where does the succession plan begin?(20:20) – The Board's role in succession planning(23:38) – What are the attributes of a good CEO?(25:57) – Internal vs. External CEO candidates.(27:49) – Are CEO candidates asked if they want to be CEO?(35:33) – What happens to candidates not selected to be CEO?(43:53) – How does a selection committee assess the potential of a candidate for 3-5 years in the future?(47:32) – The NFL: dropping the ball on effective succession planning?(50:01) – How to transition from old guard to new guard.(53:55) – What are the characteristics that make a good leadership transition team?(55:56) – What are some of craziest things you've seen in a succession transition?(58:51) – How to contact Lilly. 

Cash Nickerson is chairman of AKKA North America's Business Unit. He was President, CFO, General Counsel, and the second largest shareholder of PDS Tech prior to its purchase by AKKA Technologies. Prior to that he served as an attorney and marketing executive for Union Pacific Railroad, a partner at Jenner & Block, and chairman and CEO of an internet company. Mr. Nickerson, author of several books including The Seven Tensions of Negotiation, is an avid writer and speaker on the workplace, jobs, and the economy. Mr. Nickerson is the founder and president of the David H. Nickerson Foundation, which supports prostate cancer research.Mentioned on the ShowCash's website: https://cashnickerson.com/Connect with Cash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencashnickersonThe Seven Tensions of Negotiations by Cash Nickerson: https://a.co/d/h0PnViRGetting to Yes, the negotiation classic by Fisher, Ury, and Patton: https://a.co/d/1veJWUsThe War of Art by Steven Pressfield: https://a.co/d/c7ZyKUI________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(00:00) - Welcome to People Business(1:58) - Introducing Cash(2:18) - What is the difference between Positional and Principled negotiation?(5:20) - What are the Seven Tensions of Negotiation?(6:42) - Is Power the same as leverage?(11:08) - What's the definition of ‘negotiation'?(12:22) - Is there a type of person who does better with negotiation? What makes a good negotiator?(21:59) - How do we battle scarcity when negotiating?(23:30) - Do you have tips for people to reset their expectations in negotiations?(29:52) - How do you think about Outcome tension?(33:33) - What does prepping a negotiation look like?(41:23) - When is it a good idea to use leverage and when is it not?(45:06) - The role of bluffing in negotiations.(47:20) - Team negotiations: speed and proximity(50:18) - Can you have a direct conversation with one person when negotiating with a team?  (53:18) - How do digital/virtual platforms impact negotiations? (54:36) - Have the other party make the hard decision.

Jordan Burton is an executive assessor and interview trainer, working with top VC/PE investors and high-growth startups to hire the best of the best. He has trained over 3,000 executives and investors on hiring and interviewing skills, working with companies like Sequoia Capital, TH Lee, Insight Partners, Twilio, and Scale AI, and over 50 venture-backed startups. He was formerly a Partner at leadership advisory firm ghSMART, a consultant at Bain & Company, and he holds an MBA from Harvard Business School.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Jordan Burton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanwburtonLearn more about Talgo Team Building and Training: https://www.talgo.io/Listen to futurist Alexandra Levit on People Business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/alexandralevit/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/Timestamps(1:44) - Welcoming Jordon(2:17) - How does one become an expert in interviewing?(3:27) - How should you structure different types of interviews?(5:03) - What makes a good candidate? (10:53) - Are there any counterintuitive aspects of the interview process?(16:05) - How and What questions vs. Why questions (24:34) - When it comes to hard skills, how do we create good problem-solving interviews?(27:24) - Is there a similar way to test soft skills?(38:50) - The importance of motivation and will. (32:03) - How do we assess the actual skills required in real-time?(35:14) - What are your thoughts on the statement  "hire for attitude, train for skills"?(42:12) - Tips for candidates and interview teams to get organized and prepare(45:13) - How do we decide the best questions to be asked?(45:07) - How does an individual prepare for an interview?(46:19) - How do you analyze an interview?(49:09) - How do we develop our gut instincts? (52:32) - What is disciplined decision-making? (55:02) - Track, with honesty, which decisions worked out.(58:46) - Can you share a crazy interview story?

Alexandra Levit is a writer, consultant, speaker, workplace expert, and futurist. She has written ten business and workplace books and is currently a nationally syndicated columnist for the Wall Street Journal. In 2019, she was named to "The Thinkers 50 Radar" List.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Alexandra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandralevitLearn more about Alexandra and her Inspiration at Work content: https://alexandralevit.com/Alexandra's books: https://alexandralevit.com/booksReady Player One (book): https://a.co/d/f4dPAST________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/Timestamps(1:48) - Welcoming Alexandra(2:12) - How did you start doing futurist work?(5:08) - What were you doing to self-destruct your career?(7:08) - What were your insights from the Dale Carnegie class?(8:15) - What is your take on the "bring-your-whole-self-to-work" movement?(10:33) - Developing skills in forecasting and strategic foresight.(15:08) - Did you cultivate the ability to see beyond just tomorrow?(16:55) - How do you recommend building the skill of vigilance?(19:29) - Balancing an optimistic view of the future with a pessimistic view of the future.(26:52) - What trends are you seeing people pay too much attention to and why?(30:15) - How do we effectively make sense of new technologies?(34:20) - Are there any other trends people are paying too much attention to?(36:30) - Which trends are not receiving enough attention?(43:37) - How would you encourage people to think about trends for success?(47:03) - Why are you buying property in Vermont?(49:38) - Final thoughts: Don't be scared and see opportunities. 

Ashley Elmore is the Vice President of Human Resources at Meow Wolf, an arts production company that creates immersive, multimedia experiences that transport audiences of all ages into fantastic realms. In this conversation, she shares lessons learned from building and perpetuating a creative, collaborative culture. Mentioned on the ShowWatch Origin Story, the Meow Wolf Documentary: https://meowwolf.com/about/origin-story (film trailer on YouTube here)The Meow Wolf website: https://meowwolf.com/Ashley Elmore at Meow Wolf: https://credits.meowwolf.com/people/ashley-elmore/Timestamps(1:24) - Welcoming Ashley(1:53) - What is Meow Wolf?(4:21) - What is the culture like at Meow Wolf?(6:03) - How do art and business meet in the organization?(8:51) - What are Meow Wolf's values?(10:02) - What does creative collaboration look like and how do you foster it?(11:37) - Do you have any other examples of what "giving creation space" looks like?(13:20) - Where did the idea for giving downtime for a week come from?(15:54) - What is "provocative playfulness"?(18:43) - How do you navigate the polarity of creativity and profit?(23:03) - How does the organization approach broader social and/or political topics?(27:53) - How does leadership communicate with employees?(30:10) - How often are you talking about your values?(32:12) - How and what do you celebrate?(34:43) - Who's driving the celebrations?(37:59) - How do you treat and deal with failure?(42:14) - Is there anything else about Meow Wolf that we didn't talk about that makes it a special organization?(43:18) - Does working in a creative organization bring out the creativity of non-creative employees?(46:52) - What are your personal creative pursuits?

Tricia Sanders is the Founder & Lead Strategist at High Five Strategies. She and her team are the people leaders call when they need help connecting the dots between current- and goal-state. Tricia is an expert at challenging long-standing assumptions and drives creative yet pragmatic results. Prior to this work, she was COO at First Bank in St. Louis and an officer in the United States Army with tours in South Korea, Qatar, and Afghanistan.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Tricia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciaasandersHigh Five Strategies: https://www.highfivestrategies.com/Brian Emerson discussing polarities on the People Business podcast: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/brianemerson/Coach Rachel Hanson on People Business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/rachelhanson/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/Timestamps(1:50) - Welcoming Tricia(2:08) - What is the work of High Five Strategies?(10:17) - Why is setting strategy so uncomfortable?(15:30) - How do you help clients come up with the right set of goals?(21:20) - How do you pick one goal without letting the others slip?(25:42) - The "Even Over" statements exercise(31:29) - It's good to know the actual culture of a company(36:23) - Why is clarity so important when it comes to goals as well as knowing your "why" and your "what"?(42:03) - Why won't you take on a client for less than an 18-month engagement?(43:52) - Where are the biggest pitfalls in implementing strategy?(49:41) - How do you help people become open to change?(57:04) - Where can people reach you?(57:42) - Do you have a personal 35 word strategy?

Ben Eubanks is a writer, speaker, and researcher living in Huntsville, Alabama. His work has been featured in numerous industry publications and his books have been cited by some of the world's most prestigious universities as a method for instructing the next generation of HR professional. Ben spends his days as the Chief Research Officer for Lighthouse Research & Advisory, a firm that examines and delivers groundbreaking insights on the HR technology market as well as workforce trends in hiring, training, retention, and more.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beneubanks Talent Scarcity: How to Hire and Retain a Shrinking Workforce by Ben Eubanks: https://a.co/d/akBprGPLighthouse Research Advisory: https://lhra.io/Listen to Loran Nordgren's return interview on People Business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/lorannordgren2/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(6:10) - Why did you write Talent Scarcity?(10:31) - Can you explain what has been happening with the birth rate in America?(14:59) - What's the difference between a scarcity and a shortage?(17:56) - How are companies approaching the people/talent scarcity dilemma?(26:04) - Where does the gig economy play into the scarcity discussion?(33:01) - How do you see companies shifting hiring to remain competitive in the coming market?(37:10) - What is the hidden labor market?(48:34) - How do you see organizations embracing this as part of the culture?(51:46) - Leading is reminding/the Forgetting Curve(56:10) - Do you see organizations doing anything different in how they market themselves to attract qualified applicants?(1:00:08) - Final thoughts: AI, the creativity killer? 

Rachel Hanson is a Builder with Built to Lead, a band of personal and leadership coaches helping individuals and teams awaken and transform. Prior to joining BTL, Rachel spent 12 years as a Division I Women's Softball head coach at Stanford and Dartmouth. Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Build to Lead: https://builttolead.com/Rachel's profile on the Build to Lead site: https://builttolead.com/rachel-hanson/Rachel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-hanson-48121817Meru (film): https://www.merufilm.com/Listen to Chet Scott's interview on People Business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/chetscott/Timestamps(2:14) - Welcoming Rachel.(3:01) - How do you describe Built to Lead and the work you do?(4:43) - How did you get introduced to Built to Lead in the first place?(5:37) - How has your coaching changed since starting? (13:01) - How do we see clearly the stories we are telling ourselves?(14:38) - What does discovery look like with a new client? (16:16) - What are your favorite discovery questions?(17:55) - What does the work in those first practices look like?(19:44) - How can you tell if someone lacks clarity? (23:35) - How do we change our beliefs once we've discovered them?(37:23) - Is there anything else we haven't covered on the concept of changing the stories we tell ourselves?(46:03) - Where do you recommend people start with the writing/journaling?(48:55) - How do you help people who won't be honest with themselves because they are scared it will mean having to make a drastic change?(55:02) - How do you coach your clients when it comes to defining their purpose?(59:50) - What elements of this work have most influenced your life?(1:01:15) - What is a story that you changed about yourself?

Gretchen McMahon has had a wide and varied career as a horse show announcer, needlepoint belt maker, and sports photographer, all while raising her three boys full-time (one of whom happens to host this podcast). For our 200th episode, please welcome O'Brien's mom to the show. In this conversation, Gretchen shares how she has repeatedly adapted her work to align with her passions, building several successful businesses along the way.  Mentioned on the ShowGretchen McMahon Photography website: https://www.gretchenmcmahonphotography.com/Timestamps(1:07) - Welcoming Gretchen(1:14) - What was your first job?(8:40) - What made you a good door-to-door salesperson?(9:51) - What did you learn from sales?(14:03) - Why did you not like working for people in the stores but you did like it at the horse shows?(14:44) - What was the transition like going from doing the thing (riding) to working at the thing (announcing the show)?(16:11) - What made you a good horse show announcer?(18:21) - How did you decide to leave your work behind and raise a family?(19:51) - What was your work like as you continued to build a family?(22:34) - How did you decide to turn your needlepoint belt hobby into a business?(33:49) - How did you transition from amateur photograph (giving photos away) to professional (selling them)?(35:51) - How did you figure out how to price your work?(37:02) - Why don't you like the term "side hustle"?(37:42) - Beyond making money, what does work mean to you?(40:43) - What was your attitude around learning new things for business?(45:10) - What have you learned from all the work you've done over the years?

Mag Retelewski is the driving force behind Clarteza, an innovation consultancy dedicated to amplifying growth through deep consumer understanding rooted in psychology and neuroscience. With 20 years of experience as an innovation strategist, she has advised Fortune 500 and mid-sized companies, including brands like Nestlé, Gallo, S.C. Johnson, Honest Company, Purina, and Blue Diamond Growers and many others. Her passion for understanding people fuels her work, delivering insights that inspire impactful solutions across industries and the globe. She has worked in the US, Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa.Mentioned on the ShowMag Retelewski on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mag-retelewskiClarteza – website: https://www.clarteza.com/Listen to Megan Lally discuss better relationships making better business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/meganlally/Timestamps(1:43) - Welcoming Mag.(2:20) - How would you describe what you do?(3:43) - How do you define innovation?(7:22) - How do you begin to organize around a problem?(8:42) - Can having a hypothesis hurt you in the beginning?(11:20) - Do you have an example of unexpected outcomes?(16:09) - How do we ask the right questions?(17:51) - What are the characteristics of a research good question?(23:09) - What do you do with the research once you have it?(29:38) - How do you prime people before brainstorming to break out of their typical patterns?(32:14) - How do you break through limiting mindsets and corporate personas?(38:25) - Can you talk about the importance of liking each other?(43:07) - Does having a large team collaboration lead to better results?(49:14) - How do we apply all this to employee experience?(52:15) - Final thoughts.

Brad Englert is the author of Spheres of Influence: How to Create and Nurture Authentic Business Relationships, a practical guide to help emerging and established leaders develop and perfect the critical hard skill of building effective and lasting professional relationships. Brad has over 40 years of experience in the private and public sectors, including 22 years at Accenture and eight as Chief Information Officer at The University of Texas at Austin.Mentioned on the Show:Brad has set up a special link, exclusive for the People Business audience: https://bradenglert.com/peoplebusiness/Spheres of Influence, Brad's book: https://a.co/d/5InNcHVConnect with Brad Englert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradenglertTimestamps(1:52) - Welcoming Brad.(2:08) - Why did you write a book on relationships?(4:38 ) - How does one begin thinking about building a network for their career?(6:19) - How do we maximize our everyday relationships at work by being intentional?(10:10) - How do you recommend people shift their mindset from being all about ‘me' to caring about others' success?(12:07 ) - How do you think about providing value to people in your network?(14:55) - How do you encourage people to take a longer time horizon?(26:03) - What is the coaching you had to give the most to develop this skill?(30:11) - How do you share your values with the team and learn theirs?(39:16) - How do you stay in touch with the external group differently than with the internal group?(44:15) - How do you advise people to approach helpfulness authentically?(47:43) - What is dog flooding?(49:03) - What is power mapping?(50:18) - Any final thoughts?

Carrie O'Neill is the owner of Possibilities Farm where she leads Equine Education Experiences for individuals and corporate teams. Carrie is a dynamic speaker and author who uses horse wisdom to help clients shift perspectives and reveal new possibilities. Her diverse leadership experiences as a healthcare regulatory attorney, hospital association executive, and consultant contribute to a uniquely effective approach for engaging teams. She is currently serving on the board of the Nokota® Horse Conservancy and previously served on the board of the Equine Experiential Education Association. She is the author of the award-winning book HorsePower Your Hospital: A Guide for Leaders to Improve the Healthcare Experience and the upcoming book HorsePower Your Team.Mentioned on the ShowPossibilities Farm website: http://www.possibilitiesfarm.com/Email Carrie O'Neill: possibilitiesfarm@gmail.comLearn more about Carrie and see pictures of Jackpot and Sweet Potato: http://www.possibilitiesfarm.com/our-team.htmlHorsepower Your Hospital (book): https://a.co/d/gTg5Z9DTimestamps(2:04) - Welcoming Carrie.(2:35) - How did you start doing Equine Education?(3:43) - What made you want to get into this work?(8:13) - What can we learn from how horses function in a herd?(10:20) - What "strengths" are horses looking for in their herd mates?(13:04) - How do horses switch responsibility for different tasks in the herd?(22:23) - How does the herd reorganize when other horses come or go?(28:39) - How are horses reading humans?(39:04) - Can you share some of your stories?(59:42) - Where can people find you and your farm?

Cheryl Fields Tyler is the founder and CEO of Blue Beyond Consulting. Cheryl's focus for over 30 years has been building organizations where both the business and the people thrive. Blue Beyond recently released an updated study analyzing what different generations look for in their work. Mentioned on the ShowBlue Beyond Consulting: https://www.bluebeyondconsulting.com/Send Cheryl an email: cheryl@bluebeyondconsulting.comCheryl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylfieldstylerTimestamps(1:38) - Welcoming Cheryl.(2:25) - Can you introduce yourself and tell us your work origin story?(3:50) - Can you talk about the research you've done on generations in the workplace?(5:54) - Are you seeing enough major differences in generations or is it just nuances?(15:33) - What are some of the things that are important to different generations?(23:44) - Can you talk more about what employees want from a value standpoint?(27:53) - Is it that we want a place where internally or externally it aligns with our values?(31:52) - What do you think about some of the backlashes to DEI we are seeing at large companies?(37:27) - What do you see as the biggest differences in generations?(44:48) - How should leaders balance autonomy and accountability?(47:08) - What do you say to the people down on Gen Z?(53:54) - What do people get wrong when interpreting the data you put out?(55:04) - Where is the best place for people to find you?

Charles Feltman has spent 25 years as an executive and leadership coach helping individuals, teams, and entire organizations become exceptional at building and maintaining strong trust. Charles is the author of The Thin Book of Trust: An Essential Primer for Building Trust at Work, now in its 3rd edition.Mentioned on the ShowThe Thin Book of Trust (book): https://a.co/d/0kT51MICharles Feltman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesfeltmanInsight Coaching: https://insightcoaching.com/business-coaching/Essentialism (book): https://a.co/d/d0ZnyXxPeople Business episode on Clarity with Ann Latham: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/annlatham/Timestamps(1:37) - Welcoming Charles.(2:20) - How do you define trust?(4:09) - What are the four components of trust?(13:37) - What is the right amount of care in the workplace?(22:35) - What is "internal congruence"?(27:19) - What advice do you have for younger people who want to build a sense of inner congruence?(29:18) - Can you talk about a perceived lack of sincerity?(33:40) - How do you help clients keep commitments in a busy world?(35:31) - What are some strategies to say no without burning trust?(42:07) - How do we balance a need to appear competent with the reality that we will fail?(47:01) - How do we repair damaged trust?(49:15) - Final thoughts on building trust.

John Block is the CEO and Co-Founder of Unity Partners, a principles-based private equity firm that partners investors and operators to build better together. John serves in multiple senior leadership roles across the firm and is responsible for helping drive Unity's Partner & Propel investment strategy while working with the firm's investment teams to identify strong, ambitious leaders in attractive markets. Based in Dallas, Texas, Unity's core principles provide a key foundation for the firm to build outstanding people-based services and technology organizations.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Unity Partners: https://unitypartnerslp.com/Connect with John Block on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnablockStart with Why by Simon Sinek (book): https://a.co/d/gC05b7CRadical Candor by Kim Scott (book): https://a.co/d/3rGAZffTimestamps(2:16) - Welcoming John.(3:07) - How did Unity Partners come to be?(7:14) - Where did Unity's operating framework come from?(12:30) - What does it mean to "be the best at getting better"?(14:51) - How do you push yourself to be better every day?(17:33) - What does abundance look like in a private equity firm?(19:42) - How are you impacting motivation and performance?(22:01) - How do you balance the spirit of abundance with accountability?(23:25) - How do you set a culture of accountability?(26:10) - How do you create a psychologically safe environment?(27:46) - How do you fight (disagree) at Unity?(31:15) - Define the difference between group thinking and team thinking.(33:05) - How are you evaluating the leaders of businesses?(40:32) - What would be a red flag that would turn you off to somebody?(43:08) - What do you mean that "being boringly consistent doesn't mean you are boring"?(46:10) - Where do you see private equity going as an industry?(52:42) - What is the purpose of business?(53:30) - Where can people find you?

Wayne Turmel has been writing about how to develop communication and leadership skills for almost 30 years. He has taught and consulted at Fortune 500 companies and startups around the world. For the last 18 years, he's focused on the growing need to communicate effectively in remote and virtual environments.Mentioned on the ShowWayne Turmel's website: https://wayneturmel.com/Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayneturmelWayne's author profile on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00J5PGNWUThe Long Distance Leader (book): https://a.co/d/elERAKCSmart Brevity (book): https://a.co/d/3SN0wD2Writing Tools (book): https://a.co/d/aYRQAjBThe Chicago Manual of Style (book): https://a.co/d/b1l92XuOn Writing by Stephen King (book): https://a.co/d/e5lEtTaTimestamps(1:45) - Welcoming Wayne(2:20) - How did you get involved with remote work?(4:40) - What is happening now that is making remote work such a monumental shift?(7:03) - What have we learned from people sitting at home asking questions about their lives?(10:42) - Where does the responsibility lie between individuals and employers when it comes to putting healthy boundaries in place?(32:06) - What does the process look like reshaping work more appropriately?(37:38) - What are the skills we need to be developing to navigate the new workplace?(43:19) - What are your favorite writing books?(45:38) - Are there other skills you'd like to highlight?(54:15) - What kind of performing did you do?(55:09) - What genre do you write and where can people find your writings?(56:32) - Anything to add before we wrap up?

Elizabeth Lotardo returns to the podcast to discuss her new book, Leading Yourself. Elizabeth is a consultant, writer, and online instructor who helps organizations drive emotional engagement. Leading Yourself has been called a "refreshingly candid playbook that helps you create a work experience worth loving, right now".Mentioned on the ShowElizabeth Lotardo's website: https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethlotardoGet Elizabeth's latest book, Leading Yourself: https://a.co/d/0mJLHzOPerformance research by Morten Hansen: https://www.mortenhansen.com/book/great-at-work/The Long Game by Dorie Clark (book): https://a.co/d/5FmlHzITimestamps(2:22) - Welcoming Elizabeth(4:24) - What does it mean to lead yourself?(8:09) - Do you see commonalities with Stoicism?(9:29) - Can you talk about why it's ok not to be passionate about what we're doing all the time?(11:29) - How can we define purpose for ourselves in a more productive way?(15:14) - Please explain why most goals depend on consistency, not intensity.(21:25) - Can you explain why success is not as gratifying as we think it will be?(24:39) - How do we set goals and succeed but manage our energy better?(29:13) - Can you give an example of not focusing on success only but the process along the way?(33:04) - How can we reframe our thoughts about working with others?(37:18) - Can you talk about how to know when a situation is repairable vs when it's not?(38:48) - Can you expand on ‘intent' and how to navigate that?(42:34) - What does "disagree and commit" mean?(49:27) - How do you think about "team"?(53:56) - How do we protect ourselves from all the noise coming at us?(58:54) - How has self-leadership shown up in your world since writing the book?(1:01:39) - Anything you'd like to close with?

Julian Posada is the founder and President of LiftUp Enterprises, a for-profit holding company that focuses on low-income individuals' economic and social outcomes. Prior he was COO of The Resurrection Project. Julian hasserved on numerous non-profit boards over his career. Currently, he sits on the boards of the Chicago Public Media (WBEZ/SunTimes), BBB, Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), HOPE Chicago, Crains Forum Advisory Board, and SpragueFoundation.Mentioned on the ShowLiftUp Enterprises: https://liftupchicago.org/Connect with Julian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/posadajulianTimestamps(1:48) - Welcoming Julian.(2:29) - What is LiftUp Enterprises?(5:41) - What made you want to approach social impact with a for-profit approach?(6:53) - Do you get pushback from the nonprofit world?(13:07) - What does it mean to "stabilize" a low-wage worker?(16:07) - Can you expand on why more money doesn't necessarily solve the problem?(21:36) - How did you build your multi-faceted skill set for this work?(24:49) - How do you hold the time for this kind of iteration?(32:38) - What are some of the other principles of dignity-based management?(38:57) - Does what you're talking about require major financial investment?(46:05) - How are you coming up with these ideas?(57:28) - Can you talk about smile bonuses?(1:03:05) - What advice would you give to leaders on how to get started with this?

Justin Holland is the CEO and Co-Founder of HealthJoy where he's revolutionizing the healthcare experience by seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with exceptional service. A serial entrepreneur with a proven track record, Justin has founded and successfully exited multiple VC-backed technology ventures. A sought-after thought leader, he frequently shares his insights on digital health, employee benefits, AI, and the broader technology landscape. Justin holds a bachelor's degree in Engineering from MIT and is based in Miami.Mentioned on the ShowVisit Healthjoy's website: https://www.healthjoy.com/Connect with Justin Holland on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollandjustinOutlive By Peter Attia, MD (book): https://a.co/d/ii9cSheTimestamps(3:32) - What is HealthJoy and how did it start?(8:15) - What does Healthcare Navigation look like in practice?(10:37) - What is the customer experience?(13:23) - What entry points get someone into the process of being navigated?(16:31) - What is the case for Navigation?  Why does it exist?(18:55) - How much medical waste is in the system?(21:37) - What are the best practices to get people to sign up?(26:41) - What are best practices for ongoing communications?(28:37) - Is there anything that your customer service department has figured out about how to keep people engaged in their health care that has surprised you?(33:22) - What are the "Four Horsemen of Death"?(37:02) - What do you see as the future of healthcare for individuals?(41:04) - How do you think about the problem of people not living more healthy lives to prevent disease?(47:27) - Final thoughts about benefits navigation.(48:53) - Where can people find you?

Fred Rutler is a Managing Director at Creative Planning Retirement Services where he helps companies create and manage various employee retirement programs. Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Fred Rutler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frutlerTimestamps(2:10) - Welcoming Fred.(3:18) - What are the different vehicles companies are using for employee retirement planning?(4:44) - What is a Non-Qualified Deferred Comp plan?(6:00) – What's the difference between a 401k and a profit-sharing plan?(8:36) - Do you advise employers to do away with profit sharing completely or some match and some profit sharing?(10:11) - Is 10% the amount an employee should be saving for retirement?(15:24) - When would it not be appropriate to have employees in the plan?(21:05) - What is an employer's fiduciary responsibility and what are the consequences of doing it wrong?(23:38) - How often does it happen where somebody gets individually punished for violating their fiduciary responsibility?(26:16) - What do the numbers 321, 338, and 316 mean?(31:04) - What are Pooled Employer Plans (PEP Plans)?(33:46) - What makes a good 401k investment lineup?(37:26) - Are Target Date Funds still the recommended approach?  (43:48) - Why is 45 the age when you need to start paying particular attention to asset allocation?(45:27) - Is AI starting to play a role in retirement planning?(47:01) - What are the biggest financial wellness needs for employees?(55:05) - Where do you see the future of retirement planning?

Jason Anthoine is an executive advisor focused on employee engagement, internal communications, and culture change. A frequent conference keynoter and presenter, webinar leader and podcast guest, Jason has shared his internal comms and corporate culture insights earned over his 35-year career with thousands of like-minded communication and HR leaders looking for a better way.Mentioned on the Show:Learn more about Jason Anthoine: https://www.jasonanthoine.com/Link with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonanthoineCommunications work with Jason: https://www.thinkaudacity.com/meet-jasonTimestamps(2:03) - Welcoming Jason(2:40) - Can you share your origin story?(4:46) - What was it about internal communications vs the external that connected with you?(10:14) - What do you see as the biggest differences in reaching and communicating to a blue-collar vs white-collar workforce?(16:36) - What are some best practices in bridging these situations?(22:49) - How are we reaching people effectively today?(26:06) - Who's the one out delivering that message?(36:03) - Why is it so important to know employees and what makes them tick?(45:45) - What's the best way to make targeted communication as simple as possible?(49:39) - What are the types of categories that allow people to do this in a meaningful way?(1:01:37) - Final Thought: take the "corporate" out of your corporate communications.

Rusty Komori is a motivational speaker, leadership consultant, and tennis professional based in Honolulu, Hawai'i. From 1994 through 2015, he was the head tennis coach at Punahou School, where his boys' varsity teams won an unprecedented 22 consecutive state championships, a national record in all sports that still stands.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Rusty Komori: https://www.rustykomori.com/Rusty's newest book, Superior: https://a.co/d/gNod2DVBeyond the Lines (book): https://a.co/d/esYZ37bBeyond the Game (book) https://a.co/d/hHuAbsLTimestamps(2:02) - Welcoming Rusty.(2:48) - How did you come to be a tennis coach?(4:32) - Can you explain the dynamics of a tennis team?(7:15) - How did you build a coaching philosophy?(8:05) - How did you codify the experience of the leaders around you?(10:54) - How did your philosophy change over the years?(14:23) - How did you hold to your tenets through difficult situations?(17:41) - How do you know when you've prepared enough?(19:28) - Can you talk about "preparing until you can't get it wrong"?(23:57) - How do you help players navigate the pressure they put on themselves?(28:13) - Is it compartmentalizing or accepting things that have already happened?(36:17) - Do you meditate?(38:40) - What does your self-talk sound like?(47:00) - What are your best practices for having difficult conversations?(49:35) - What is an example of feedback that isn't attacking the person but the behavior?(53:40) - How do we know when to take a risk?(59:12) - Parting words.

Yosi Amram is a licensed clinical psychologist, a CEO leadership coach, and an award-winning author. With engineering degrees from MIT, an MBA from Harvard, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Sofia University, he is a pioneering researcher in the field of Spiritual Intelligence. As the author of Spiritually Intelligent Leadership: How to Inspire by Being Inspired, Yosi is committed to awakening greater spiritual intelligence in himself and the world.Mentioned on the ShowSpiritually Intelligent Leadership (book): https://a.co/d/b7ZONNSLearn more about Yosi on his website: https://yosiamram.net/Connect with Yosi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yosiamram/Timestamps(2:01) - Welcoming Yosi.(3:09) - What is the difference between spirituality and spiritual intelligence?(6:24) - How did you land on spiritual intelligence as a career path?(11:15) - Can you share your manic experience and tell us how that manifests?(17:27) - How did you find the balance and integrate it into your life?(23:11) - Where do we start?  How do we know which ones to pick?(26:34) - If somebody is having a hard time embracing spirituality how do you help them achieve their goals?(31:25) - How would you help align ideas to purpose and spiritual development?(37:28) - Can you explain what inner directedness is?(38:46) - How do we build that kind of integrity?(43:41) - Why is community important and how do we build a healthy community?(45:06) - What does it look like to build community?(51:18) - What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge?(52:26) - How do we practice wisdom?(56:01) - Where can people find out more about you?

John Fisher is a constructivist psychologist. He has spent the last 25 years working in change management, personal development, and team and individual coaching. He has a unique blend of experiences across a range of sectors and companies from SMEs to Multinationals. John used his experiences counseling people to develop the "Fisher Change Curve" that has inspired thousands of people worldwide. He believes “organizations don't change – people do!”Mentioned on the ShowFisher Change Curve: https://bit.ly/3Aj34lRTimestamps(2:06) - Welcoming John(2:51) - What is the Fisher Change Curve and how did it come to be?(8:19) - Can you walk through the curve and the steps along the way?(15:39) - What happens before change and how does the curve apply?(31:31) - What have you found is the best way to get people through denial?(33:24) - What are the best practices for getting people off the hump of the other kind of denial?(39:29) - How much of this is positive and how much is overwhelming?(48:46) - Is the hostility internal or external or both?(52:15)   If when going through a change and disillusionment sets in is this where people try to sabotage the process?(53:23) - Is there anything regarding the change curve we missed?(55:15) - How can we use this in our day-to-day lives?

Achyuta Adhvaryu is a Professor of Economics and the Director of the 21st Century India Center at the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego. He is also the co-founder of Good Business Lab, a global nonprofit focused on rigorous research and action at the intersection of worker well-being and business interests. His research focuses on firm decision-making and productivity in emerging markets with extensive work across South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the United States. He holds a PhD in Economics from Yale University.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about the Good Business Lab: https://goodbusinesslab.org/Read some of Ach's work and research on his website: https://www.achadhvaryu.com/Ach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/achyuta-adhvaryu-7a69b7136Timestamps(2:32) - Welcoming Ach.(2:42) - What is your origin story of how this came to be?(6:17) - What is the transformation you've seen in India?(9:34) - What does it mean to treat your workers well?(11:51) - Is treating people well good or good business?(17:20) - Was there anything in your research that surprised you?(24:28) - What were the interventions that helped reduce the turnover?(28:19) - What do you do with the survey results?(35:09) - What are some of the other factors that are moving the needle?(36:15) - Why are building soft skills so important?(49:26) - Is there anything unique to female workers?(57:12) - What is the response from women?(59:15) - Are businesses driving politics to become more liberal or progressive?(46:58) - How has learning changed since the pandemic?(51:07) - What are the best practices to make virtual learning engaging?(56:11) - Can you talk about what a sabbatical means to you and how you would use them?(1:03:06) - Where can people find you?

Brian Emerson is the founder of Andiron where he helps organizations and leaders harness the power of polarities. Brian also teaches about paradox in leadership and organizations at Notre Dame, the University of Maryland, and Georgetown's Institute for Transformational Leadership. He is the co-author of Navigating Polarities: Using Both/And Thinking to Lead Transformation.Mentioned on the ShowLearn more about Brian's firm Andiron: https://andiron.com/Check out the Key Polarity Indicator to evaluate polarity indicators you may encounter in the workplace or in life: https://keypolarityindicator.com/Brian's book, Navigating Polarities: Using Both/And Thinking to Lead Transformation: https://www.amazon.com/Navigating-Polarities-Using-Thinking-Transformation/dp/1733382836/Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-emerson________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(3:17) - How does one decide to get a PhD in ‘paradox'?(4:39) - What research were you doing to get your PhD?(5:46) - Is there a definition of polarity you like the most?(6:54) - Why is it so hard to find the middle ground?(13:51) - What makes a polarity and what doesn't?(15:52) - Why is the abortion debate a bad example of a polarity?(17:50) - Why is the gun rights debate a better example?(20:09) - Does overindexing on a pole cause an equal and opposite reaction from people on the other pole?(23:19) - How do you counteract the magnetism of the pole?(24:50) - How do we land in a more sustainable middle ground?(32:35) - How do we start to unwrap people from the poles they're attached to?(37:57) - How do you use this to navigate life?(47:10) - How do we protect ourselves from people manipulating our poles?(51:15) - How can people find you and engage in this type of work?

Erin Huizenga is a learning experience designer with over 20 years dedicated to empowering people and organizations to grow through human-centered learning strategies and design innovation. As founder and CEO of Desklight, Erin partners with organizations such as The Smithsonian, McGraw Hill, and Techstars to research insights, prototype ideas, and develop breakthrough learning programs.Mentioned on the ShowConnect with Erin Huizenga on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinhuizengaLearn More about Desklight: https://desklightlearning.com/Erin's Book, Learning In The Wild: https://a.co/d/0eXFQ55yListen to Sue Rice on People Business and her book Tiny Thunder: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/suerice/Humor, Seriously by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas: https://a.co/d/0e3IjXFKMake It Stick by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger, III, and Mark A. McDaniel: https://a.co/d/0hLcfWv1Timestamps(2:40) - Welcoming Erin(3:08) - What is Desklight and how did it come to be?(9:28) - How do you define "design"?(11:13) - Are you solving specific learning problems or building overarching ones?(15:28) - With so many things to learn, how do you decide where to begin?(18:37) - What makes an employee happy and want to stay in their job?(28:32 ) - How do you help clients decide whether to insource or outsource learning?(32:20) - How do you help presenters be more captivating?(34:34) - Give us 2 or 3 tips on being a more dynamic speaker.(38:59) - Are there subjects that are better taught by someone from outside?(41:21) - What are some of the coolest things you've seen people do outside the norm that had a big impact?(46:58) - How has learning changed since the pandemic?(51:07) - What are the best practices to make virtual learning engaging?(56:11) - What does a sabbatical mean to you and how do you use them?(1:03:06) - Where can people find you?

Kona Shen co-founded My90 in 2016 to help the public and police communicate using accessible, data-driven technology. Kona joined Axon in 2021 when they acquired the company. Prior to co-founding My90, Kona founded GOALS Haiti, an award-winning non-profit that uses sport as a tool to spark long-term community development. She holds a B.A. in Development Studies from Brown University and an M.A. in International Policy Studies from Stanford University.Mentioned on the Show:Connect with Kona Shen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konashenLearn more about My90 on the Axon website: https://www.axon.com/products/my90Support efforts in Haiti: https://www.goalshaiti.org/Listen to the People Business episode all about hardiness with Dr. Steven Stein: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/stevenstein/Timestamps:(2:26) - Welcoming Kona(3:17) - What is social entrepreneurship?(5:18) - How do you think about incentives?(8:01 ) - What are best practices in setting up a nonprofit board with checks and balances? (9:55) - How would you lead with more humility and weakness if you were starting over?(14:40) - Cockroach mentality.(16:08) - What is My90?(24:28) - How did you overcome people's skepticism about the project?(34:28) - Are there any other best practices you've learned about surveying?(36:23) - What types of police interactions are you NOT surveying?(37:57) - What have you learned surveying sexual assault victims?(42:21) - How do you see leaders in law enforcement balancing vulnerability and confidence?(48:01) - How are police departments using this internally and externally?(53:35) - Have you seen them use the survey to influence types of incidents that you're not surveying?(55:15) - What other areas do you feel this type of feedback would make a big difference?(57:54) - What advice do you have for those who would like to reach out and ask these questions but don't know how to?(1:00:29) - What's the best way for people to find you and get connected?

Laura Knights is an executive coach, speaker, and facilitator with 19+ years of experience creating personal and professional development programs that have touched leaders all over the world. Her expertise and background in business, human resources, adult education, and social work uniquely equip her to teach others how to deal with both the "head work" and "heart work" required to succeed at work and in life. Laura is the creator of the Black Woman Leading® programs and podcast, and the Founder and CEO of Knights Consulting LLC, a leadership development consultancy that provides customized training and coaching programs to organizations to create more confident leaders and high-performing teams.Mentioned on the Show:Connect with Laura E. Knights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraeknights/Learn more about Knights Consulting: https://knightsconsultinggroup.com/Visit the Black Woman Leading® website: https://blackwomanleading.com/Listen to the Black Woman Leading® podcast: https://www.pod.link/1561551317Laura referenced leadership and conflict resolution books by Amy C. Edmondson and Timothy R. ClarkRead about the study Laura referenced about peer impact on the careers of Black women: https://www.hks.harvard.edu/publications/asymmetric-peer-effects-work-effect-white-coworkers-black-womens-careers________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/________________________Timestamps(2:27) - Welcoming Laura Knights.(2:39) - What kind of work do you do?(3:08) - Tell us about your podcast and conference work.(4:13) - What are people learning from the Black Woman Leading conferences?(8:01) - How much of the problem is racism vs other issues?(13:02) - How does being a licensed therapist get applied in the work you do?(15:49) - Do you have an example of how systems thinking applies to leadership problems?(22:58) - Where do you draw the line between caring and coddling?(30:17) - How are forward-thinking companies developing a pipeline of talent to continue to sustain leadership over time?(33:33) - Is there anything they're doing around incentivizing people?(45:54) - Is there anything in particular we should address about moving people up through the organization and develop them?(48:25) - How are you seeing companies able to maintain this and work through issues across global boundaries?(51:45) - Do you have any frameworks for managing conflict?(59:16) - How can people get in touch with you?

Danielle Krischik is the Chief Communication Officer at Knight Agency, an internal branding agency that helps companies connect to and tell their unique stories to help attract and retain talent. In this conversation, she explains how to surface your unique stories, connect them to your mission, and create an environment that speaks to people. Mentioned on the Show:Connect with Daniell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellekrischikLearn more about the Knight Agency: https://knightagency.com/Stephen King's On Writing: https://a.co/d/4BjtmeaThe Power of Moments (book): https://a.co/d/cMoB1i9________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps(2:49) - Welcoming Danielle.(3:20) - What is Knight Agency?(4:10) - What is purpose and performance work?(4:55) - What's the main difference between internal marketing/branding vs. external marketing/branding?(6:32) - How and where are clients using this work?(8:23) - Can you give us examples of where your communications are used internally that drive retention?(11:34) - What does an engagement look like with a new client?(16:10) - What makes a good second and third-level question during discovery?(22:12) - How do you drive attention to personal stories so everybody in the business feels connected?(26:23) - What makes a good story?(30:52) - Do you agree that the more elements of storytelling like metaphor and analogy we use with people the more it creates an emotional connection?(46:00) - How do you help clients match their behaviors with the narrative?(49:52) - How do you help people find their authentic way to express their story in the larger narrative?(54:00) - How do companies make this work last?(59:01) - Where can people engage with you and your work?

Dr. Steven Stein is a clinical psychologist and the founder and executive chair of Multi-Health Systems (MHS), a leading assessment and behavior analytics company. He is a former chair of the Psychology Foundation of Canada, former President of the Psychology Foundation of Canada, and has helped lead several other prominent organizations. He teaches at the Directors College of Canada.Mentioned on the Show:Hardiness: Making Stress Work for You to Achieve Your Life Goals (Steve's book): https://a.co/d/cLpKwyQOther books by Steve Stein: https://mhs.com/dr-steven-steins-books/Steve Stein's profile on the MHS website: https://mhs.com/about-our-founder/Learn more about Steve's company Multi-Health Systems, Inc.: https://mhs.com/Bonus: O'Brien liked this episode of Armchair Expert, speaking with author (and sociopath) Patric Gagne. ________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________ Timestamps:(1:51) - Welcoming Steve(2:14) - What is ‘Hardiness'?(3:42) - What are the differences in some of the words for mental toughness and where does ‘hardiness' fit in?(7:08) - Is there such a thing as good stress and bad stress?(8:58) - Where's the line where stress becomes trauma?(10:53) - How much does your mindset help your physiology during stress?(12:08) - What is the difference between positive energy and negative energy?(13:32) - Why is avoiding stress counter-productive?(14:42) - Why is commitment often the first place for stress?(15:34) - What does helping people with commitment look like?(17:05) - As an example, what are some of your commitments? (20:10) - What do you say to people who struggle to find one particular purpose?(25:04) - Why is hate not a good fuel for hardiness?(28:30) - Can you talk to us about Challenge?(31:38) - Are Challenge and Control interrelated?(32:45) - How do you change people's perspective on Challenge?(39:15) - Does control mean I have to figure out how to control everything in my life?(40:59) - How have you gotten more comfortable letting things go?(43:32) - How do you instill hardiness in other people?(45:54) - What are signs that someone should take the ADHD assessment?(47:30) - What was the most interesting thing you learned about psychopaths?(48:35) - What's the difference between a psychopath and a sociopath?(51:14) - What goes into creating an assessment for a reality TV show cast?(53:38) - How did you come to do the assessment work?(54:54) - Did you assess former President Trump?(55:45) - Where can people find you and engage in this work?

With a PhD in Behavioral Economics and a Master's in Sociology, Myriam Hadnes combines academic knowledge with practical experience in group collaboration and facilitation. She is the host of the "workshops work" podcast, where she engages in weekly conversations with global facilitation experts. She has also built NeverDoneBefore (NDB), a global online community of facilitators who share a common goal: to spark fresh trends in group collaboration. With her business workshops.work, Myriam follows the vision to create an ecosystem for facilitators, helping them to leverage the impact of their work through community, collaboration, and co-creation.Mentioned on the Show:Connect with Myriam on LinkedIn: https://www.instagram.com/myriamhadnes/Listen to Myriam's podcast: https://workshops.work/podcast/Workshops.work website: https://workshops.work/Never Done Before facilitator's community: https://neverdonebefore.org/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________ Timestamps:(2:47) - Welcoming Myriam.(3:38) - What is facilitation? What's the difference between facilitation and hosting?(7:40) - What are some of the skills that go into navigating the group dynamic to where you want it to go?(9:14) - Is this similar to what a coach does?(17:25) - What are the misconceptions of facilitation?(21:01) - What goes into creating a safe environment for facilitation?(24:46) - Where's the line between being relaxed and being careless?(28:29) - What guidance do you have for those who want to facilitate and also participate?(32:12) - Do you have examples of the leader bringing in a different facilitator?(38:42) - How do we know as a facilitator when to orchestrate and when to be spontaneous?(44:24) - Is there anything we missed that's foundational to what it means to facilitate?(48:09) - How can we have to better, deeper conversations faster?(55:15) - Can you share one or two things from your Never Done Before community that have blown your mind?(57:47) - Where can people find you and your work?

Paul Falcone is a bestselling author and top-rated presenter and storyteller specializing in workplace leadership development, communication, and talent management, including effective hiring, performance achievement, employee accountability, and workplace ethics. Drawing from his years of experience as head of HR for Nickelodeon, head of international HR for Paramount Pictures, and head of HR operations for NBCU's prime time and late-night lineups, Paul knows how to entertain and train meaningful concepts for quick and easy adaptation and implementation. Mentioned on the Show:101 Tough Conversations to Have With Employees (book): https://a.co/d/beQ9UghSee Paul's other books on his Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Paul-Falcone/author/B001JSBH5OConnect with Paul Falcone on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1Paul's website: https://www.paulfalconehr.com/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________ Timestamps:(2:24 ) - Welcoming Paul(2:56) - Can you give us the background on your career?(3:54) - What made you want to write books?(6:03) - What was your process of writing and working at the same time?(10:04) - What is it about “101 Tough Conversations” that readers resonate with(24:10) - How can leaders develop a practice of tough conversations so that people get regular feedback?(36:26) - What does it mean to be a good coach as a leader?(40:25) - How do you guide someone into a new skill they've never done before?(49:09)v- What is leadership offense?(51:21) - Where can people find you if they want to get in contact?

Lori Becker is the Chief Executive Officer of the Starkloff Disability Institute (SDI). In her role, Lori oversees the organization's efforts to advance inclusion, access, and equity for people with disabilities in all aspects of society, and especially the workforce. As a leader with a disability herself, Lori is passionate about diversity and inclusion and was named a Diverse Business Leader in 2019 by the St. Louis Business Journal.Mentioned on the Show:Starkloff Disability Institute: https://starkloff.org/Connect with Lori Becker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loriannbeckerComing in June, 2024 - Designing Work for Humans: https://peoplebusinesssummit.com/Stella Young—I'm Not Your Inspiration, Thank You Very Much (TED Talk): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8K9Gg164Bsw ________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________ Timestamps:(2:28) - Welcoming Lori.(3:02) - What is Starkloff and how did you come to be associated with it?(5:22) - Walk us through the history of disability law.(14:34) - What does the range of disabilities look like?(18:41) - How do you think about your work when it comes to this broad spectrum of disabilities?(20:39) - What are the three levels of disability employment?(26:30) - What are your thoughts on the language and stigma people use when talking about disabilities?(41:59) - How can leaders mitigate employees from abusing certain accommodations?(48:24) - What is inspiration porn?(57:33) - Where do you recommend a new employer to get started with this?

Brad Karsh, founder of JB Training Solutions, returns for a short bonus discussion about developing training programs for companies. Mentioned on the Show:Brad's First Episode: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/bradkarsh/JB Training Solutions: https://jbtrainingsolutions.com/Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradkarsh/Manager 3.0 by Brad Karsh (book): https://a.co/d/3QO4E48________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(1:01) Welcoming Brad back to the show(1:59) How should a company think about a training curriculum? (3:16) Brad explains how to use a needs analysis at a mid-sized company(4:35) Examples of how to teach hard skills internally(7:45) How can companies work with you? 

With a career spanning leadership roles in the world's largest company, influential positions in education teaching personal branding and marketing, and a deep understanding of the professional services industry and HR, Dr. Anna Stumpf brings a unique perspective to coaching professionals and organizations through transformative growth. She joins the show to talk about how successful leaders and companies are building community and brands that connect.  Mentioned on the Show:Collective Energy Coaching: https://www.collectiveenergycoach.com/Connect with Dr. Anna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amstumpfComing in June, 2024 - Designing Work for Humans: https://peoplebusinesssummit.com/O'Brien's Dad talked small business on People Business: https://peoplebusinesspodcast.com/chrismcmahon/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:04) - Welcoming Anna(3:12) - Who are you? What's your background? What are you doing now?(11:09) - Can you talk about how important emotional intelligence is to marketing?(14:54) - Has marketing always been about community?(21:35) - What have you seen as far as companies using marketing for recruiting?(35:28) - How are you seeing leaders brand themselves successfully?(41:12) - How important is it to have a personal brand?(59:45) - Where can people find you if they want to connect?

Pinky is the Chief Financial Officer of Ideal Industries, a ~$400M manufacturing company with a global footprint. She leads several enterprise-wise transformation initiatives, enabling the company's business model to adapt to changing market conditions and disruptive market forces. In her prior role as the CFO & COO at U.S. Soccer, Pinky led the organization through its challenges in a highly-visible media environment, including the Women's National Team Equal Pay Litigation. She was central to the company's most significant commercial, legal, operational, and financial events. In this conversation, she talks about what it means to be a strategic CFO and how she thinks about the human aspects of leading finance. Mentioned on the Show:Ideal Industries: https://www.idealindustries.com/us/en.htmlView Pinky's profile at Ideal Industries: https://www.idealindustries.com/us/en/about/leadership/pinky-raina.htmlConnect with Pinky on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pinkyraina________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(1:49) - Welcome Pinky!(2:39) - What is a CFO's job?(4:15) - What does "accelerating value creation" mean to you?(5:56) - What makes a good CFO?(8:10) - Do your peers have the same mindset you do?(9:48) - How handicapped are you working for a public company?(11:29) - Why do public company executives care about short-term market changes?(13:43) - Why is there a 3-5 year turnover rate for CEOs?(15:40) - How did you develop your mindset?(16:47) - How do you coach the people on your team? (22:03) - What's your mindset and what types of things are you looking for as a CFO?(29:42) - Are you verbalizing your plan to your team on day one?(32:40) - Who do you use as resources to help you navigate onboarding?(34:08) - Can you talk about how you partnered with HR in onboarding?(36:34) - Can you tell how you came to be in HR?(39:28) - What surprised you the most about taking on an HR role?(40:10) - What did you learn from your HR experience?(43:26) - How do you plan succession roles?(48:50) - As a CFO how do you think about talent and leadership development?(55:04) - Do you have any final thoughts you'd like to share?

Mike White and Ken DeBauche are Co-Founders of Secchi, an employee relationship management tool for manufacturing, healthcare, and other shift work environments. In this conversation, they share how the lessons they learned working in these environments influence how they are now trying to make work better for both leaders and employees. Mentioned on the Show:Learn more about Secchi: https://secchi.io/Connect with Mike White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-white-secchiConnect with Ken DeBauche on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-d-3b584110________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:38) - Introducing Mike and Ken and the Secchi origin story.(8:28) - Can you talk about the "Us vs. Them" dynamics often associated with manufacturing and warehouse environments?(11:57) - How do you see health care issues translating into a warehouse environment?(17:02) - How do you start skill building for supervisors to encourage them to adopt this new system?(21:17) - In what format are the employees getting the recognition?(23:42) - How do you get the supervisors to adopt recognition?(26:30) - What other elements allow employers to influence their supervisors and front-line workers?(30:51) - How do you reward employee points?(38:18) - What other elements managers and supervisors are tracking with your systems?(41:40) - What does a goal look like for these employees?(52:36) - Where can people find out more about Secchi?

Brent Kedzierski is a sought-after keynote speaker and a leader of connected-worker ecosystems at Hexagon, an international data company working in industries from oil and gas to AI and manufacturing. He is focused on improving the human condition at work and creating a seamless collaboration between humans and machines. Brent has been involved in human performance trends in significant government and commercial industries, including the Department of Defense, executive and judicial branches of the US Government, aviation, healthcare, and nuclear industries. Mentioned on the Show:Connect with Brent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentkedzierskiLearn more about the concept of "cobotics": https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cobot________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:05) - Welcoming Brent(2:43) - What is your take on the state of employment these days?(12:59) - Why should companies invest in people skills (soft skills) for their employees, especially if those skills are transferrable to other employers?(20:17) - What are "cobotics"?(24:37) - What recommendations do you have for business leaders today to prepare for the transformation from our current work setting to a work setting with generative AI?(27:58) - What are the key traits from organizations that do training on new technology or business processes well?(35:22) - What in your mind is the purpose of business? 

Patti Temple Rocks is the author of I'm Not Done: It's Time to Talk About Ageism in the Workplace, which was ranked as one of the 9 books Every Professional Should Read in 2019 by INC Magazine. Kirkus Reviews said, “Rocks writes succinctly but convincingly about the proliferation of age bias and its damaging, insidious, and demoralizing effects on businesses and employees alike.” She recently released a second edition called I'm STILL Not Done because of the impact she saw the pandemic have on older workers and the way they are treated.Mentioned on the Show:I'm Not Done (book): https://a.co/d/hVSVdmeI'm Still Not Done (book): https://a.co/d/dTtNayzLearn more about Patti Temple Rocks on her website: https://www.pattitemplerocks.com/Connect with Patti on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattitemplerocks/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:15) - Welcoming Patti.(2:58) - What is Ageism? (4:06) - Has Ageism always been a problem?(7:00) - Do you have examples of how this shows up differently for people?(9:21) - How does Ageism show up differently for men and women?(17:10) - Don't people get less creative as they get older?(22:17) - Why should employers care about ageism?(26:26) - What do you think of the reasoning that the cost of the business requires it to replace older employees with younger ones?(35:51) - How do we blend having difficult conversations and providing opportunities for young people?(42:40) - What are things you see employers doing to get creative around retirement?(46:20) - Are you not a fan of mandatory retirement?(47:48) - Can you talk about mixing up social events?(50:52) - Patti's final message. 

Malissa Clark is an Associate Professor of Industrial-Organizational Psychology at the University of Georgia and Director of the Healthy Work Lab. She is the author of Never Not Working: Why the Always-On Culture Is Bad for Business—and How to Fix It.  Mentioned on the Show:Never Not Working (book): https://a.co/d/3xGh9q0Malissa's website: https://www.malissaclark.com/Connect with Malissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malissa-clark-0387991a/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps(2:03) - Welcoming Malissa.(2:24) - How did you come to study workaholism?(3:41) - How do you define workaholism?(10:48) - How much of workaholism is about the action work versus how you feel about the work? (13:21) - It's normal for achievement to take a lot of sacrifice.  Don't we have to be workaholics to succeed?(15:31) - What is "introjected motivation"?(19:43) - How can we determine the difference between interjected and intrinsic motivation?(24:05) - What impact does workaholism have on your health and relationships?(28:46) - How influential are our phones and technology in fostering workaholism?(31:08) - Can you explain what "working light" is?(32:47) - Why is working light bad?(34:47) - How do we break the cycle of responsiveness?(48:05) - How do we let go of the guilt of not being productive?(49:18) - What's an example of a mastery experience?(54:34) - Can you dispel the myth of needing employees to be workaholics for a company to succeed?(1:00:49) - What one or two things someone struggling with workaholism should do to start?

Mentioned on the Show:Go Big or Go Home by Diana Kander: https://a.co/d/5x73IOKBe sure to listen to Diana's interview with O'Brien to learn how to receive her book for freeDiana's website: https://dianakander.com/Learn more about Diana's other books here: https://dianakander.com/books/Jesse Itzler and the Big A## Calendar: https://jesseitzler.com/products/calendar-2024Gabrielle Reece on The Joe Rogan Experience: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7HhQhQjC4A________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:11) - Welcoming Diana.(3:02) - How does one become an innovation consultant?(3:44) - What is most misunderstood about innovation?(6:51) - How do you limit your capacity so you have flex time?(9:52) - What are examples of your "impossible tasks"?(13:03) - What makes a person or a pitch memorable?(15:22) - Can you talk about the level of research you do to prepare for a pitch?(16:37) - Is that different than the old school build rapport?(20:49) - How do you balance technical knowledge with relationship building?(22:49) - What are tips to build trust in high-stakes situations?(25:04) - What do you say to people who say these methods are cheesy?(29:01) - How do you avoid starting a meeting by telling them about yourself? (31:18) - What does it mean to take people on a journey with your pitch?(33:23) -  How important is it to have a global overarching theme?(34:06) - How do you think about losses?(36:03) - How do you think about surprise and how important is it?(37:41) - Can you give examples of ways you've used surprise?(39:16) - Why are 3D objects important?(42:04) - Is it correct to say you need to be both thoughtful and vulnerable to make it a successful pitch?(44:04) - How do you keep this fresh without burning out?(45:28) - How do you guide people through resistance to the GO BIG OR GO HOME method? (45:59) - What do you say to the person who thinks they're not creative?(48:49) - How do you apply these principles in your personal life?(50:08) - Remember: you want to pitch something that is unique.(53:43) - Where can people reach you?

In this special episode, O'Brien and past guest Jason Lauritsen announce a unique in-person event for People Business listeners who lead HR. Designing Work for Humans: A People Business Summit will take place in Chicago on June 3rd and 4th, teaching HR leaders design skills they can use in their organizations to solve pressing business problems while making work better for the humans who work there. APPLY HERE: https://peoplebusinesssummit.com/This will be a project-based learning environment, meaning it will be immersive and hands-on, giving attendees a chance to practice what they are learning in real-time and with real-world applications. We are partnering with Embarc, a Chicago-based nonprofit helping underserved students across 20+ schools by designing experiences that show them all the city (and the world) has to offer. Check out Embarc's mission here: https://embarcchicago.org/If you are an HR leader who wants to be a better internal consultant to your executive team, who wants to help your organization face an uncertain future, who wants to improve the lives of your employees... this is the event for you. 

Julie Dirksen is the author of the books Design For How People Learn and Talk to the Elephant: Design Learning for Behavior Change. She is a learning strategy consultant with a focus on incorporating behavioral science into learning interventions. She's been an adjunct faculty member at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and is a Learning Guild Guildmaster. Mentioned on the Show:Talk to the Elephant: Design Learning for Behavior Change (book): https://a.co/d/hYJTByTDesign For How People Learn (Voices that Matter) (book): https://a.co/d/9BoCfdXAugmented and Virtual Reality for Behavior Change (white paper): https://www.learningguild.com/insights/237/augmented-and-virtual-reality-for-behavior-change/Connect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliedirksenJulie's website: https://usablelearning.com/________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sVTimestamps:(2:04) - Welcoming Julie(3:58) - Do adults and kids learn differently?(8:00) - Can you explain the title of your book ‘Talk to the Elephant'?(18:34) - How does delayed gratification play into corporate training?(26:53) - How do you feel about the concept of experiential learning?(31:18) - How do you see people using augmented reality and virtual reality in the workplace?(41:29) - Can you talk about what is extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation?(49:49) - Can you talk about what is the difference between individual and group behavior change?(1:03:20) - Where can people find you if they want to learn more about this?(1:04:16) - What suggestions would you give people to start implementing instructional design?

Erin Diehl is a Business Improv Edutainer, Failfluencer, and Professional Zoombie. Through a series of unrelated dares, Erin created improve it!, a unique professional development company that pushes others to laugh, learn, play, and grow. Her new book, I See You: A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team Through Radical Empathy, has paired her eighteen years of leadership experience with her improv-honed sense of humor to create a mindset shift for busy, stressed-out leaders. Using laughter, positivity, and empathy, Erin will take you on a journey of self-exploration to discover a newfound sense of self-love and inner peace that translates into improved leadership performance.Mentioned on the Show:I See You: A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team Through Radical Empathy (book): https://a.co/d/7USky6MErin's website: https://www.itserindiehl.com/Erin's Meditation Album: https://www.itserindiehl.com/i-see-you-store/p/i-see-you-meditations-for-magnetizing-and-attracting-abundanceImprove It!: https://www.learntoimproveit.com/Time Codes:(1:54) - Welcoming Erin.(3:32) - What is this book, I See You, and why did you decide to write it?(8:05) - What does “life is an energy management problem” mean?(10:20) - How did you get that internal energy? (13:15) - What does energy correction look like?(16:26) - How did you come up with this process?(28:29) - Can you talk about self-limiting beliefs?(41:49) - Why is “if you love what you do you'll never work a day in your life” B.S.?(45:02) - What advice do you have for people who want to embrace Radical Empathy and feel stuck?(59:14) - A final message for the audience.

Jon McGraw co-founded Vision Pursue (VP) after it's principles radically shifted his mindset, performance, and overall life experience. He's since guided and assisted in the successful application of these principles inside hundreds of corporate teams and sports franchises. He's a sought after keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and Performance Mindset trainer. Before VP, Jon played 10 years in the NFL plus completed business management and entrepreneurship programs at Harvard Business School and Wharton Business School. Mentioned on the Show:Learn more about Jon's organization, Vision Pursue: https://visionpursue.com/Jon's profile and bio: https://visionpursue.com/vp-team/jon-mcgraw/#bio-anchorConnect with Jon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmcgrawperformancemindsetJocko Willink's podcast: https://pod.link/1070322219Jocko Willink – “GOOD”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdTMDpizis8Wim Hof breathing techniques: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/breathing-exercises________________________Connect with O'Brien McMahon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obrienmcmahon/Learn more about O'Brien: https://obrienmcmahon.com/O'Brien's new book—How You Become You—is available now: https://a.co/d/22kZ0sV________________________Timestamps:(2:13) - Welcoming Jon(2:54) - How did you get into brain science and mental performance as a profession?(4:48) - Can you talk about the different components of brain productivity and brain healing?(6:32) - When you shift to a more conscious response what do you see in the brain from a health perspective?(7:59) - What have you seen with your own brain scans?(11:45) - What do you think meditation would have done for you while you were playing football?(13:03) - What do you mean by “hard drivers especially need to use meditation techniques?”(17:51) – Does our society have an unnatural focus on “purpose?”(24:06) - What are your recommendations to keep the loose, playful mentality when we need to make money?(27:30) - What does the shift from analytical to experiential brain?(36:12) - How do you help people keep the big vision and be present in the same moment?(38:34) - How do we attach dopamine to things it wouldn't normally be attached to?(43:13) - What do you do when that negative voice comes back?(49:03) - How does your work help people stay on task and not need the dopamine rush of escape activities?(53:27) - How do we assess the emotion we're feeling and how do we find a healthier path for it?(57:16) - What would you recommend as a place to start?(1:01:02) - What is power breathing?(1:02:57) - Where can people reach you?