What's Next Now!

I am honestly so excited to share this week's episode because it's one that stuck with me long after we finished recording. If you have ever faced a layoff or felt the pressure of a ticking clock, you will definitely want to tune in to this conversation! My guest for this episode, Namrata Kulkarni, is a highly skilled data architect and business intelligence engineer who came to the U.S. in 2015 to pursue her master's degree at Syracuse University. Like many immigrants, her journey has not been easy, but it has shaped her into the person whom she is today, and after eight years with the same company, Namrata was laid off while on an H1B visa, which meant that she had only sixty days to land a new role or risk losing her right to stay in the country!This is pressure which most of us cannot imagine, but what really personally struck me was how Namrata responded. She skipped the shock and jumped straight into action, choosing gratitude over resentment. In her own words, “The layoff didn't happen to me—it happened for me.” I honestly had to pause when she said that because how often do any of us reframe setbacks that way?!Listen in as Namrata opens up about the challenges of job hunting for the first time outside of her company, relearning how to interview, and wrestling with whether or not to tell her family that she had been laid off. There is also a vulnerable moment in which she talks about the well-meaning but unhelpful things people say such as “I'm so sorry” which simply don't land the way people tend to think that they do. (Speaking as someone who's been laid off more than once, I personally felt that deeply.)What is especially inspiring here is not just that she landed one job offer but TWO in a job market that is anything but stable right now, and she did it by focusing on what was in her control - preparation, mindset, and leaning on the relationships that she had built over the years.If you are facing uncertainty, dealing with a career change, and/or supporting someone who is, you will definitely take something away from this episode, and if you haven't yet, I also highly recommend that you check out or revisit episode 43 of the show in which I speak with Rebecca Reeder, a pastor-turned-AI analyst who offers yet another incredible career story! Thanks for listening and being part of these conversations!Episode Highlights: [2:02] - Namrata reveals that she has been in the data industry for almost 10 years.[4:42] - Speak from the heart, and don't expect anything back.[5:41] - Hear how, moving to the U.S. in 2015, Namrata grew independent and grateful for her journey.[8:13] - Embracing her layoff, Namrata felt gratitude, trusting her instincts and cherishing SCOR's support.[11:04] - Namrata shares how her colleagues' support affirmed her skills, inspiring her to seek new opportunities.[12:24] - I point out how the layoff was a chance for Namrata to reinvent herself.[13:13] - Thanks to support and extra preparation time, Namrata took on interviews under intense pressure.[16:20] - Hear how Namrata overcame shame and networked tirelessly.[17:45] - Refining her skills and her resume, Namrata trusted the universe while pushing through interview anxiety.[20:03] - Truly believing that she was the right fit, Namrata practiced relentlessly until confidence replaced interview anxiety.[22:40] - Namrata argues that performing well requires pursuing what truly excites and energizes you.[25:25] - Starting at Amazon feels surreal for Namrata, with her focus now on learning and effectively contributing.[26:38] - Life's serendipity often redirects plans.[28:15] - Namrata credits her network in helping her land interviews, proving that referrals and support make a difference.Links & Resources:Email Gary: gary@garydanoff.comGary Danoff LinkedInLHH LinkedInNamrata Kulkarni LinkedInWhat's Next Now! - “From Pastor to AI Ethicist”

This week, I welcome Evan Watkins, an expert in emotional intelligence, who helps us unravel a subject that truly resonates with me - emotional intelligence in everyday life! Imagine that your career is sailing smoothly, or perhaps it is facing turbulence with unforeseen changes like a layoff or a surprising new opportunity. How do we navigate such unpredictable turns? Evan helps us break down how emotional intelligence, described simply as the "intelligent use of your emotions," can serve as our compass. He introduces us to the RUM model - Recognize, Understand, and Manage - which provides a framework for emotionally intelligent decisions in both life and work. Think of it not as your typical cocktail but as your emotional cocktail, blending self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management! If you Google "how to control your anger," you will see 1.2 million search results, but Evan humorously points out how many of these just recycle the same age-old advice. Instead, emotional intelligence teaches us to channel emotions like anger, not just control them, harnessing their energy positively in workplaces and beyond. Evan and I discuss intriguing examples such as Max Scherzer, the baseball pitcher whose intentional and controlled anger powers his performance. We also would be remiss to not talk about AI. As we pivot into the rapidly advancing world of technology, Evan shares his musings on how AI and emotional intelligence may intertwine. They're more intersectional than we often think, with emotion-aware avatars and other tools changing the communication game. I hope that you will dive into this episode filled with wisdom and wit, insights, and practical tips that encourage us all to focus on the human touch in an increasingly digital world. In summary, Evan and I discuss how emotional intelligence can be developed to effectively take on both expected and unexpected life and career changes. Evan emphasizes the practical applications of emotional intelligence in handling workplace dynamics and anger management, while also exploring its intersection with AI technology to enhance communication and interaction. Episode Highlights: [2:45] - Evan lives in Oceanside with his wife, a professor at UCSD, and their border collie Wendell; he surfs daily and is a writer shopping his second book![4:26] - Emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to improve life and relationships.[7:41] - Soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, are important for generations affected by limited socialization during COVID.[9:05] - Emotional intelligence is learnable; practicing key skills post-COVID can help improve relationships and workplace dynamics.[11:16] - LEADx offers a free, validated emotional intelligence assessment![13:28] - Evan argues that anger, when managed, can improve focus, persistence, and resilience, as shown in various studies.[15:48] - Evan discusses how Max Scherzer uses anger as motivation but ensures it doesn't overwhelm him, balancing focus and control.[17:34] - Recognizing emotions in real-time can reduce their intensity and improve conflict resolution.[20:46] - Emotional intelligence is essential for adapting to rapid AI advancements, blending with technical skills effectively.[22:47] - Evan points out how future emotional intelligence tools could help refine tone in communication.[25:30] - The LEADx book offers strategies and assessments which help readers develop emotional intelligence and track progress.[28:37] - Evan explains how nudges based on assessments offer tailored strategies for personal and team development in real-time contexts.[31:12] - In closing, emotional intelligence involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions to enhance relationships and interactions. Links & Resources: Gary Danoff LinkedIn Evan Watkins LinkedIn LEADX Website LEADx's EQ Assessment Kevin Kruse & Evan Watkins - Emotional Intelligence (A LEADx Guide)

Is it possible…to go from conflicting ideas, opinions and dug in positions to ultimately finding solutions on our most polarizing issues?  These are places where we have deep conflict. It seems like we are battling so many headwinds these days to imagine such a possibility. Many of the sources we watch or listen to are fed from the outrage industrial complex perpetuating our current culture of fear and blame and the ‘us' versus ‘them' mentality. In our conversation, Rob shares his journey from a career in public policy to becoming a thought leader on collaborative problem-solving. Rob and I explore the very real possibility of how the use of collaborative problem solving has the potential for positive outcomes even when it comes to significant differences. This isn't possible all the time and we talk about why. But the uses are more frequent than most people have thought about so far.  Rob tells stories and we discuss how seemingly impossible agreements are made by people on very opposite sides of tough and gritty issues including healthcare, gun control and recidivism. You'll be surprised and enlightened to learn how agreements were reached. Perhaps one of the most compelling parts of our discussion is Rob's take on the current loneliness crisis made so much worse by the pandemic and digital communication. He offers valuable insights into how we can rebuild and strengthen relationships, particularly among those in the workforce who have launched their careers during COVID and and grown up in a more digital world. The approach and lessons from the conversation and book apply to those in business, on Boards, in the public sector and in your own community! Episode Highlights: [1:44] - Raised in Poughkeepsie, New York, Rob worked in public policy and now lives in Bethesda, Maryland.[3:12] - Rob credits Mariah Levison, coauthor of From Conflict to Convergence and CEO of Convergence, with adding depth and insight to the book's lessons.[3:41] - The structure of the book focuses on mindset, building blocks, and processes for conflict resolution.[5:35] - How might the book relate to solving major national problems?[7:06] - Rob believes that bringing people together is possible by applying collaborative, diverse viewpoints.[10:37] - Rob points out that conflict can be constructive and liberating, leading to empathy and better relationships.[13:32] - Building trust and exploring shared values can help people overcome initial negative attitudes and disagreements.[16:32] - Rob discusses how the pandemic and remote work have strained relationships and how fostering connection requires creating supportive communities.[18:22] - Hear how a collaborative project showed that shared goals can overcome differences and result in improvements.[21:37] - I particularly relate to Rob's story's theme of finding common ground and trust, even with initial differences.[22:28] - Rob advocates for trust, which can develop through deep understanding and dialogue, even between people with opposing views.[25:28] - Bridging divides requires grassroots and top-down efforts; role models and media can help foster cooperation.[28:01] - I suggest using influencers to teach collaborative problem-solving and improve relationships.[29:44] - Cultural change in Congress is challenging, but effective leadership and new models can help foster better communication.[31:31] - Rob advocates for candidates who emphasize working well with others and finding common ground on issues.[33:24] - Data and real conversations potentially reveal that Americans are less divided than the media suggests.[35:12] - Rob adds that honest conversations reveal surprising truths and improve understanding across division.[37:50] - What's next now for Rob? Links & Resources: Email Gary: gary.danoff@lhh.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn Rob Fersh LinkedIn From Conflict to Convergence: Coming Together to Solve Tough Problems Convergence

Joining me for this episode is Ethan Waldman, a leading figure in the tiny house movement. Ethan's journey from a web designer to a tiny house expert is nothing short of inspiring, and his conversation here with me is definitely one for those of you who are seeking a shift in how you live and impact the planet. Not only does Ethan live in a tiny house, he's built an entire community around it! The founder of thetinyhouse.net, Ethan is also the author of the guidebook and online course Tiny House Decisions and host of Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast, which recently celebrated its 300th episode! Ethan recounts a transformative bike trip along the Pacific coast. Expecting the journey to be life-changing, he was surprised by his reaction upon returning home. The simplicity of living out of a few bags contrasted with the abundance of stuff he had accumulated, a revelation that pushed him towards tiny house living. Listen as Ethan explores the whys and hows of tiny house living, breaking down the process into actionable steps: understanding your motivation, deciding between a mobile or stationary tiny house, and whether to build it yourself or hire professionals. He also shares the challenges and rewards of DIY construction, providing a realistic perspective on what it takes to create your own tiny home. For those curious about minimalism, Ethan also offers practical tips on decluttering, starting with the easiest area: your wardrobe. He shares how small experiments, like packing lightly for a trip, can be a stepping stone towards embracing a simpler lifestyle. His advice is grounded in real experiences and interviews with minimalism experts, making it accessible for anyone interested in the philosophy. We also discuss the broader implications of the tiny house movement. While there are significant challenges in converting commercial spaces into residential ones, Ethan's optimism about the movement's growth is palpable, and he highlights how some states, like California, are already leading the way with progressive legislation that makes it easier to integrate tiny houses into urban landscapes. Ethan, in closing, reflects on his journey and what's next now for him. With the landscape of online education evolving, he's contemplating new directions for his business. Whether you're a tiny house enthusiast or just curious about alternative living, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration, so tune in, get inspired, and perhaps take your first step towards a more intentional way of living! Episode Highlights: [1:36] - Ethan reveals that he is a tiny house author, speaker, teacher, and creator of the Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast. [3:04] - Dissatisfied with corporate life, Ethan built a tiny house to pursue entrepreneurship after a sabbatical.[5:47] - I reflect on Ethan's clarity from biking, realizing possessions hinder life's true desires.[7:47] - Ethan suggests starting decluttering with clothes and recommends trying a minimalist trip for a reset. [10:47] - Ethan defines the tiny house movement as advocating for homes under 450ft² with efficient space use.[13:19] - Ethan notes that converting commercial buildings into housing is challenging due to interior space and construction differences.[15:38] - Ethan notes nonprofit tiny home projects for veterans. [18:56] - Start with why you want a tiny house, and then decide on mobility or permanence.[21:22] - Ethan notes a pandemic-driven surge in tiny house interest, now suggesting lower-priced used options. [24:47] - Ethan discusses options for moving tiny houses and challenges in financing them traditionally. [28:06] - Hear what's next now for Ethan. [30:07] - Ethan reveals where he can be found online. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn thetinyhouse.net Tiny House Decisions Tiny House Lifestyle Podcast

I am thrilled to welcome Tony McGaharan to the show. Tony is the dynamic founder of People Playbook and has a rich background that spans from Google to coaching basketball in Sweden. Right from the very beginning, Tony's warmth and humility shine through as he shares his background. Proudly from Belfast, he learned the values that drive him: hard work, treating people well, and having the courage to take risks. His transition from a secure job at Google to founding his own company wasn't easy, and he discusses the courage that it required for him to leave Google. Having recently left Google myself to best serve clients as a coach and mentor, I totally relate to this part of Tony's journey!  We also touch on the importance of maintaining an identity beyond work, a challenge Tony and I both faced after leaving Google. Tony's journey also leads us into a fascinating discussion about coaching. He sheds light on the cultural differences in attitudes towards seeking help and support. In places like Belfast, people are more inclined to value personal relationships and community over job titles, a perspective which has deeply influenced Tony's approach to coaching and mentoring, where the focus is on people rather than just business outcomes. We have a great discussion about how men typically (not always) have a harder time asking for help and want to be sure that outcomes can be measured in ways that help advance their career or reason for coming to coaching. To which I say:  of course, yes and absolutely they should expect this.   We also talk about other unexpected benefits clients receive from coaching when it is included as part of a corporate or team kick off in order to help extend the benefits of the event.  Tony's background in coaching basketball also comes into play as he draws parallels between sports coaching and leadership development.  We also, of course, discuss what's next now for Tony, with Tony envisioning growth that is thoughtful and sustainable, focusing on working with the right people, including both clients and his team. Tony's insights into courage, identity, and the value of a supportive community are invaluable for anyone looking to make a significant change in their life or career. Tune in to hear more about his journey and the exciting work he's doing at People Playbook! Episode Highlights: [0:56] - Join me in welcoming Tony McGaharan of People Playbook to the show![1:14] - Tony gives us a little bit of background information about himself.[2:49] - Tony reveals that leaving his secure job at Google took years of struggle, courage, and his mother's trust.[4:51] - Tony's strong support network taught him that his identity is more than just his job.[7:14] - Tony feels that being from Belfast humbles you.[8:02] - Tony finds his identity in values, mission, and personal passions, not in work status.[10:19] - Tony's courage to leave Google stemmed from valuing altruism over high earnings.[13:21] - We learn how Tony's coaching journey in Sweden unexpectedly led him to professional basketball, ultimately shaping his leadership philosophy today.[16:10] - Where did Tony get the name People Playbook?[18:09] - I ask Tony about encouraging male leaders to view coaching as beneficial, despite potential perceptions of weakness.[20:23] - Tony agrees, stressing the need to align coaching benefits with business outcomes for male leaders.[23:56] - Hear about the importance of long-term support for leaders through coaching and mentoring relationships.[26:27] - I highlight the privilege of helping others find their vision and providing support through accountability.[27:31] - Tony emphasizes the importance of company over journey or destination in business growth.[30:59] - Tony explains why he is grateful for my own transition from Google. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Tony McGaharan LinkedIn People Playbook --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation as Rebecca Reeder navigates the intersections of faith, technology, and ethics, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of AI and its profound impact on our society. And hear about ‘What's Next Now' for Rebecca as she reflects  on authenticity, alignment, and the pursuit of a fulfilling career.  Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Rebecca Reeder LinkedIn Thomas Merton Author Page Adam Grant's Hidden Potential Book Episode Highlights: [0:59] - My guest in this episode is Rebecca Reeder.[1:19] - Rebecca transitioned from religious ministry to AI analytics with Alvarez and Marsal in 2023.[3:00] - Rebecca shares how her college internships led her from diverse experiences to a career in vocational ministry.[5:24] - Hear how Rebecca realized as a pastor that genuine connections dwindled, prompting her shift towards alignment and integrity.[7:39] - Thomas Merton's teachings helped Rebecca realize that she lived by external expectations, prompting a quest for genuine connections and impact.[9:54] - Rebecca's pivot to analytics stemmed from strategic thinking, network connections, and natural affinity for data.[12:08] - I praise Rebecca's authenticity, connecting it to her technical background and AI's potential.[15:37] - Rebecca values Amplify's focus on enhancing customer experience through AI-driven efficiency.[17:22] - I simplify AI as computers processing 0s and 1s to provide useful human insights.[21:35] - Rebecca highlights Adam Grant's two-part brainstorming process for optimal teamwork and idea generation.[24:03] - Hear how Rebecca tends to use polite prompts, preferring phrases like "can you" and "will you please."[27:27] - Rebecca believes that her communication skills have improved through specificity and clarity in interactions.[30:36] - Rebecca learned from an Adam Grant podcast about AI guardrails, citing Khan Academy's Conmigo project.[32:00] - Rebecca notes ChatGPT's role in her Python learning, emphasizing AI's guidance over mere solutions.[34:24] - I discuss refining prompts for AI, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking alongside AI integration.[37:01] - Learn how Rebecca optimized productivity by using ChatGPT to personalize evaluation methods.[40:02] - Rebecca embraces Sal Khan's vision for Khan Academy: personalized teaching assistants for all, promoting individualized learning.[42:02] - What's next now for Rebecca? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

What is it like to fund a startup as a private investor or as part of a private equity firm?  What is it like to be a founder–the roller coaster journey from idea conception to gaining customers and making it to minimal viable product (MVP) and beyond?  Sophie Wang, an experienced professional with a rich background in finance, private equity, and venture capital is a person who can answer these questions because she has been on both sides of the equation! One of the fascinating topics that we explore is the paradigm shift in AI, with Sophie delving into a comparison between 2023 and 1993. Just as the internet was developed far before web browsers popularized it in the early 90s; AI has been around a long time and has become popularized since the introduction of ChatGPT in late 2022.  Drawing parallels between generative AI and the internet revolution, she emphasizes the need for realistic expectations and patience as we navigate the early stages of this transformative technology. Sophie and I also touch on the critical lessons for founders, such as the importance of asking "Why me?" and "Why now?" These questions serve as a framework for evaluating the uniqueness of a founder's skill set and understanding the timeliness of their venture. Her dedication to showcasing the experiences and perspectives of immigrant technologists is not only inspiring but also enriching for anyone aspiring to create meaningful impact. As we close, Sophie hints at what's next now for her, including potential collaborations and a new podcast. You won't want to miss what's next for Sophie Wang. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with ⁠https://www.garydanoff.com/contact⁠ ⁠Gary Danoff LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Sophie Wang LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Sophie Wang Substack Newsletter⁠ Episode Highlights: [1:17] - My guest in this episode is Sophie Wang. [1:46] - Sophie gives us some background information about herself. [3:17] - Always tending to your contact garden is crucial for success.[5:59] - I point out how delightful it is when connections happen.[7:16] - Sophie appreciates the parallel between 2023's generative AI revolution and 1993's internet revolution.[10:40] - I highlight the decade-long period between internet milestones.[13:08] - Sophie advises founders to focus on personal passion and deep understanding when choosing startup domains.[15:14] - I appreciate Sophie's insightful three-point answer and share a Shark Tank example, emphasizing passion and learning.[17:56] - Sophie highlights the acceleration of global tech collaboration through open source communities, citing examples such as Hugging Face.[19:43] - I discuss the challenging funding landscape in 2023, emphasizing the need for pragmatic valuation.[21:53] - Hear Sophie address the challenging funding period, emphasizing the importance of considering valuation benchmarks.[23:21] - Sophie discusses macro management, pointing out how Macro shifts normalize down rounds.[26:26] - Efficient markets prompt early-stage founders to ask "Why me?" and "Why now?" for idea validation.[31:04] - Immigrant experience, personal connection, and a desire to contribute all drove Sophie to start her blog.[33:17] - Contemplating immigrant entrepreneurship led Sophie to explore motivations and share inspiring narratives for broader impact.[35:19] - Connecting deeply with Sophie's motivation, I appreciate her focus on immigrant attributes in entrepreneurship.[37:40] - Sophie expresses appreciation for her personal coach for helping her bring objectivity and support in navigating challenges.[40:09] - What's next now for Sophie?[41:29] - Sophie reveals where she can be located online. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Join me this week as I sit down with Dr. Ayhan Cetiner, the owner of Elite Orthopedic and Sports Therapy. Ayhan's core beliefs:  you've only got one body, so empower it to last you a long time; you have to put in the reps and work so make time for it; it isn't all about how much weight you lift or how many marathons you conquer. Before diving into our personal journey, Ayhan provides insights into his background as a physical therapist, including the role that chance encounters can play in what you end up doing, over and over again. Spoiler alert:  he never intended on becoming a physical therapist.  We explore the crucial element of genuine care in Ayhan's approach to his clients, discussing the challenges faced in the corporate world, where numbers often take precedence over individualized care. And how as a founder you reach many crossroads to decide ‘if' and ‘how' you want to scale the business you birthed. None of it is automatic or always clear. Ayhan sheds light on the importance of building relationships and the impact of reducing pain on the dynamics of that relationship.  And if you take that in a different direction, it is about solving problems and (reducing pain) and lessening friction in any relationship we are in. Maybe feeling better in our own body can help with that? The episode wraps up with Ayhan reflecting on the future of his practice and What's Next Now  for him. Very cool what Ayhan has decided:  despite external pressures to expand, he remains committed to the personalized approach that defines his current success. Ayhan's dedication to his clients, coupled with his reluctance to compromise one-on-one relationships, sets the tone for a thought-provoking exploration of the soul of his business. Join us in this episode as we challenge preconceptions about physical therapy and highlight the transformative power of personalized, caring healthcare. Episode Highlights: [0:57] - My guest today is Ayhan Cetiner, owner of Elite orthopedic and Sports Therapy. [1:25] - Ayhan fills us in on some background information about himself.[3:04] - After reflecting on his post-school journey, Ayhan started as a tech and discovered physical therapy.[6:00] - Ayhan explains that after returning to his previous job, now under a larger company, he prioritized quality patient care.[7:59] - Hear why Ayhan values one-on-one care.[9:37] - Building unique, impactful relationships in one-on-one healthcare, Ayhan focuses on reducing pain and empowering individuals.[11:50] - I commend Ayhan's approach to personalized pain resolution and feel that he would bring the same caring approach to a different profession as well.[13:08] - Ayhan shares a funny story involving a client's back pain from a thick wallet.[16:55] - I express how Ayhan's dedication to educating clients sets him apart, as teaching about muscles and promoting mobility is crucial.[17:53] - People who sit often develop muscle tightness; even regular exercisers tend to neglect crucial stretching.[19:47] - Ayhan touches upon how a 70-year-old, reflecting with a college athlete, would likely emphasize body maintenance, mobility, and endurance.[21:53] - The remarkable resilience of a 70-year-old body, exemplified in a client's progress, highlights underestimated capabilities.[24:49] - Focusing on physical concerns, Ayhan provides extensive education and personalize well-being to individual goals.[27:10] - Ayhan prioritizes making therapy relevant, addressing mobility, flexibility, and strength, and focusing on positive possibilities.[29:19] - What's next now for Ayhan?[32:41] - Ayhan reveals how listeners can get in touch with him.[33:49] - Changing how therapy is perceived, Ayhan aims to make it accessible, educational, and empowering. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Email Ayhan: acetiner@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

My conversation today is with the incredible Tracey Madigan, media training expert and director of the 15 Minutes Group in Washington, D.C. Our connection was instant, that rare feeling when you know you've found someone whose energy and approach are similar to your own and their story resonates deeply. Listen as Tracey shares her remarkable journey, from a career in Canadian journalism to navigating the dynamic landscape of Washington, D.C. as her husband became a White House correspondent. We explore the unexpected turns that led her from a  pivotal role as an executive producer for a business show in D.C to her current role as Senior Partner with the 15 Minutes Group.  What especially stands out about Tracey is her passion for helping brilliant minds communicate effectively. She shares invaluable insights based on media training, emphasizing the art of concise, impactful communication. The anecdotes she provides-like helping a caterer deliver a compelling talk on food waste when the caterer had hoped to know more about the topic before presenting-showcase her unique approach in helping clients eliminate self-doubt and foster authentic connections.   Tracey and I also delve into the broader impact of media training beyond interviews, discussing how these skills resonate in negotiations, interpersonal relationships, and everyday professional communication. Tracey's ability to uncover patterns and provide small, impactful tools for improvement is truly transformative, and we also explore the challenges of returning to in-person communication post-pandemic. Tracey's expertise proves invaluable as we discuss the universal benefits of effective communication honed through media training, and the impact this training can have in both business and our personal lives.  Tune in to this enlightening conversation with someone whose passion simply glows. Whether you're an entrepreneur, communicator, or simply someone looking for inspiration, you're in for a treat as Tracey and I uncover what's next now! Episode Highlights: [1:30] - Tracey shares having embarked from Canadian journalism to CBC and how she navigated unexpected shifts in Washington, D.C.[4:24] - After CBC Montreal, Tracey produced a business show in D.C., leading to media passion pursuits.[7:01] - Meeting brilliant individuals, including researchers and authors, Tracey assists in packaging their content for effective communication.[8:44] - Emphasizing clarity as kindness, Tracey helps individuals express themselves while maintaining authenticity. [10:12] - When speaking to students, teachers focus on what's received, ensuring clarity, and similarly, presenters should prioritize audience understanding to reduce nerves. [12:03] - Tracey argues that emotionally mapping your talk engages the audience, allowing authentic expression and enhancing connection. [14:24] - Tracey shares a story of someone acknowledging her audience's expertise, overcoming speaking nerves. [16:41] - Tracey shares how years as a TV and radio journalist taught her how to guide interviews. [19:39] - People often share communication hurdles, stemming from past experiences or fear of judgment, but coaching can address these barriers. [21:37] - Media training's skills extend beyond journalism, benefiting negotiations, relationships, and professional communication. [22:58] - What's next now for Tracey? Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Today's conversation is with Carlos Santana, a remarkable individual.  I've had the privilege of knowing Carlos for a couple of years through our involvement in Google VetNet panels during Veteran's Day week, and every time we talk, I'm inspired by his story. Carlos' career is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a captain in the Army after graduating from West Point, his path took unexpected turns, leading him to diverse assignments, including counter-narcotics operations and managing satellites in Germany. Today, he holds a pivotal role as the Director of Business Analytics at the Disney Company in New York City. Throughout our conversation, Carlos shares the twists and turns that guided his career choices, emphasizing how he has had to manage uncertainty. He highlights the blend of volunteering, luck, and determination that brought him to where he is today, and we dive deep into the challenges faced by veterans transitioning into civilian life, especially in the technology and entertainment sectors. Carlos sheds light on the progress made in fostering diversity and inclusion, emphasizing the pivotal role of aligning personal interests with organizational culture. His insights on continuous learning, particularly in artificial intelligence and machine learning, are invaluable for anyone navigating the evolving landscape of technology. Join me as we explore Carlos Santana's remarkable journey, filled with strategic choices, personal growth, and the unwavering commitment to delivering value. This episode is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, continuous education, and finding the right team that invests in your growth. Carlos's story is a masterclass in carving out your path in the corporate world so you can manage your uncertainty and thrive!  Episode Highlights:  [01:38] - Carlos shares how he navigated military assignments, luck, and networking to transition into federal consulting. [3:01] - Carlos honed interview skills, adapting military experience to civilian job market demands. [4:26] - During uncertainty, Carlos seized opportunities, landed an embassy project, pursued the MBA, and pivoted to the commercial sector. [6:01] - Carlos argues that any degree opens doors, facilitating opportunities and networking for career growth. [7:26] - Identify gaps, address challenges, leverage education, and seize opportunities for strategic career growth. [10:38] - Carlos emphasizes addressing diversity gaps, leveraging military networks, and offering coaching support for professional growth. [13:22] - Carlos values ongoing training, certification, and practical experience for career advancement and resume building. [15:03] - Carlos feels that understanding business context is key; focus on role, manager, and personal growth. [16:56] - Carlos encourages us to evaluate company culture, team support, and growth plans. [19:06] - What's next now for Carlos? Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

I am joined today by my good friend and former colleague Jody Ramsammy, who shares insights into his journey from growing up in South Africa during challenging times to pursuing the American dream. He also talks about his transition from a successful corporate career to launching his own business, Vivid Presents, focused on creating immersive and inclusive experiential events. Jody emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment, even in our tech-driven world, and he discusses his mission to make everyone feel like a VIP at his events and his commitment to affordability and inclusivity. He, in addition, shares his passion for writing and his upcoming book Control Alt Delete, which delves into various life lessons and experiences. Throughout the conversation, Jody reflects on his diverse influences and his journey from a hustle culture mindset to a more balanced “thrive culture,” going on to discuss the impact of culture on our lives and how he aims to help others through the book and his experiential events. I hope that you will join the conversation as we dive into Jody's inspiring story and explore what's next now for him on the horizon! Episode Highlights:  [0:13] - Gary pays tribute to his late uncle Alvin. [1:45] - We learn that today's guest is Jody Ramsammy of Vivid Presents. [3:43] - Jody argues that emotions are fleeting and are not our identity. [5:53] - Jody shares his life journey from South Africa to chasing the American dream. [6:53] - Jody co-founded "The Presents" to reinvent arts and entertainment events. [8:50] - Jody explains the name Vivid Presents. [10:17] - Jody shares how he always enhances events with innovative and immersive elements. [13:09] - Learn about how Jody fosters a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere by offering affordable pizza and burgers. [14:16] - Jody's mission stems from his experience with apartheid and focuses on inclusivity and affordability. [16:28] - Jody is expanding events globally, with current locations in Vancouver. [19:04] - Jody plans to expand to various locations, focusing on the East Coast and Midwest. [20:30] - Jody is developing immersive events that blend physical and digital experiences. [22:55] - Jody plans tech MVP, user testing, and a project jokingly called Entropy.[ 25:41] - Hear how Jody recognizes the cultural and technological pressure to induce FOMO. [26:15] - Jody explains how he came up with the #ourtimetoshine hashtag. [28:19] - Jody reveals how TV characters fueled his imagination and aspirations. [30:44] - Jody finds motivation in a quote about underdogs overcoming disparities. [32:26] - Jody emphasizes post-pandemic challenges for diverse musicians. [34:00] - After a life-changing realization, Jody began writing Control Alt Delete. [37:01] - Hear why Jody's book's upcoming Thanksgiving release is symbolic to him. [40:39] - What's next now for Jody? Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Jody Ramsammy LinkedIn Jody Ramsammy Instagram Vivid Presents Website Vivid Presents Instagram Email jody@vividpresents.com  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Make it stick:  your message and your presence. How do you do that these days?  I'm not even talking about LinkedIn or other social media. How about when you are actually face to face with another person? With all the competing requirements for their attention-some known and many unknown to you-how do you build a relationship with someone that sticks? I found some answers to these questions in the third and final conversation from my mini-series discussion  with Nick Sinai and Marina Nitze, authors of the book Hack Your Bureaucracy: Get Things Done No Matter What Your Role on Any Team, a book that I found so poignant and captivating. Marina, former Chief Technology Officer of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Nick, a key player in the Obama administration, share their insights into building authentic relationships within large organizations, including the government. They emphasize the importance of understanding people's motivations, fears, and career aspirations (something I call, MFC) to help them achieve their goals.  Throughout my own career in sales, leadership and coaching the golden rule is to understand the MFC and express a sincere appreciation to each person who chooses to share. Across multiple relationships, this begins to form a web of people who become connected and willing to reach a new goal. Whether inside or outside the company or agency, they become willing to work through disagreements to achieve results and many times to create what often becomes a great new service, product or company. One of my takeaways from the book is that the awareness of MFC and then putting it into action are the foundation for Making It Stick whether practiced individually or by a team.  We highlight Marina's incredibly innovative "Grilled Cheese Club” (yes, you can form one too!) approach where individuals from different parts of an organization come together to foster collaboration and understanding, overcoming bureaucratic obstacles in a low-key and informal way. Best to do this in person if possible and don't forget the cheese!  The discussion turns to the provocative concept of "stabbing people in the chest,” which in practice is nothing like what it sounds like. It means being open and honest with detractors about disagreements to build trust and transparency so that when it does come time to gain agreement on an initiative or program, you can make it stick. In practice, this means navigating bureaucratic challenges and fostering relationships, even with those with whom we disagree. Think about the last part of that sentence: ‘even with those with whom we disagree'. As I work with coaching clients, customers and partners, I have learned something really inspiring:  the art of disagreeing and then reaching compromise is something many people crave to learn more about and practice in their life and work.  In addition, our discussion touches upon the value of playing the long game and exploring career opportunities that go beyond just traditional paths, where Nick and Marina stress the importance of earning trust and demonstrating excellence before taking such leaps. In my own career as well as those of clients, this is the number one rule and we pair it up to the practice of, ‘give to get'.  I hope that you will join the conversation as we wrap up this mini-series and as Marina Nitze and Nick Sinai provide valuable lessons on navigating bureaucracy and driving change, all while leaving a meaningful impact on organizations and society. Links & Resources: Schedule Listening Time with https://www.garydanoff.com/contact Gary Danoff LinkedIn Hack Your Bureaucracy - Website What's Next Now - “Hack Your Bureaucracy Show #1: Defining and Learning About Your Bureaucracy” What's Next Now - “Pitching and momentum: learn it, do it, love it!” --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Following up on this three-part mini-series with Nick Sinai and Marina Nitze, I bring you part 2 from their book Hack Your Bureaucracy.  I have to say, this book has truly struck a chord with me. The stories are compelling and based on wisdom gained from hacking bureaucracies in both the private and public sectors. What really sets it apart is its practical approach; at the end of each chapter, there are actionable takeaways that bridge the gap between theory and real-world implementation.  It's like a workbook that tells you exactly how to apply what you've learned! The content applies to getting things done no matter what your role on any team (starting, growing, scaling).  In this episode, we are delving into some really incredible stories from the book focused on pitching and momentum-crafting your message and gaining support.  One that especially caught my attention was Marina's journey with a paperclip and bar code readers (yes, true) at the Department of Veterans Affairs, a testament to how small innovations can spark significant change within a complex system.  Nick discusses the tremendous staying power of the one-pager. We also discuss adapting to shifts in leadership and aligning pitches with evolving visions from new leaders to maintain momentum. It's about finding common ground and speaking the language that resonates with decision-makers. The next part of the discussion coming to you in September will focus on the critical aspect of building and sustaining change to achieve tangible results. We are going to pull it all together in this final show of the series.  Please subscribe to get advance notification of the release along with other curated content from me.  You can reach me here if you want to discuss a topic. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Do you ever feel like you're constantly being hit with obstacles getting in the way of your goals? No matter what you do to achieve your goal, sometimes you run into a wall - that wall being a bureaucracy. Sound familiar? If so, you're going to want to listen to this episode. So many of us are often contending with bureaucracies, and today's guests  discuss how to reach your goals regardless of the role you hold today! I had the amazing opportunity to talk with Nick Sinai and Marina Nitze. Both have held roles in The White House, other high level roles in government and today in private industry as well as education and non-profit and private equity. As  authors of Hack Your Bureaucracy, Nick and Marina have plenty to share about hacking your bureaucracy and how to create outsized impact with limited resources! I am recording a three-show series over the summer.  The show today is about how to get started-which is with defining and learning about your bureaucracy-and covers topics like: Figure out the Real Org Chart Be Your Own Customer Try the Normal Way First Play the Newbie Card Beware the Obvious Answer These concepts will light you up with ideas and inspiration you can apply to your own bureaucracy hacking-whether you are a founder, working inside a company, launching a new leadership role for yourself or other major career transition.  The concepts and frameworks discussed on the show in and the book apply equally to an entrepreneur, services delivery business and leaders in large organizations.We are all hacking through bureaucracies these days in new ways. We work with  financial providers, supply chain partners, contract workers and sales partners in hybrid and in-person environments. There are so many more bureaucracies to work with versus against these days and Nick and Marina provide invaluable insights and practices for doing so! Listen to Hack Your Bureaucracy:  Defining and Learning About Your Bureaucracy --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

It's incredible how just three simple words, "I see you," can profoundly impact our business and personal relationships. As leaders-whether starting a company, leading a division or playing a key member role-it's crucial to understand the value of these words. Using them effectively can create deeper connections with those around us:  customers, colleagues and strategic partners and these deeper connections are crucial in this environment. Inspiration for the story today came from a personal experience when I was the first to arrive on a video call (one of several in a row). As I asked if anyone could see me, another guest responded and included those three magic words, "Yes, Gary. I see you." It left a lasting impression and showed me the power of acknowledging someone's presence much more profoundly than, ‘yes, I'll be right there'. Or, ‘running just a minute late, hang on please'. Right! But "I see you" is more than just a physical acknowledgment. It's about recognizing someone's worth and building stronger relationships. In South Africa's Northern Natal region, the tribes greet each other with "Sawubona," which means "I see you." It's about acknowledging someone's value beyond their physical being. It's about  more than words of politeness, Sawubona carries the importance of recognizing the worth and dignity of each person. Wow. So I began to wonder:  is there a way to bring the value and weight of this saying into the digital domain? Can the depth of this greeting be useful in a business setting? Can this greeting help us with our humanness as distinct from our AI?  To answer these questions I created four pillars to help you harness the power of "I see you" in your business and personal life (which are inextricably connected), and they are;I.   Seeing and Leading Yourself (how you show up in business online and in person), II.  Leading others, three behaviors are key to a leader who is ‘seen' and ‘sees others', III. Expanding your organizational impact by educating and influencing others,  IV. Expanding your career by seeing others and creating your portable tribe.  By recognizing someone's worth and connecting with them on a deeper level-even in business settings-you can turbocharge your communication and transform your relationships in ways you might never have dared imagine, and there create unusually high business impact.   In a day and time when we are all both excited and yet anxious about integrating the many roles of AI into helping us be our best human beings, we hold the absolute power in our unique human form of recognizing the value in each other, one person at a time. We can truly see what no machine can see.  Let's make those around us feel more fully seen with the power of "I see you," and join me on this journey to see and be seen! Links & Resources: Schedule Free Listening Time with Gary@GaryDanoff.com Gary Danoff LinkedIn I See You Lolly Daskal The Relaxation Response Decoding Leadership: What Really Matters --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gary437/message

Layoffs happen. Most likely, you either have already or will experience a layoff during your career. When they occur, you have no control over when or how they happen. Being blindsided by a layoff can be devastating, depending on how prepared you may be to handle it. I've worked at 7 seven companies where layoffs occurred and have been laid off at 4 of those companies. I've also had to be the person to carry out the layoffs and terminate people. Being on both sides of the layoff, I have been taught the value of always being prepared; always having a parachute if you get pushed out of the airplane while in flight. Being prepared means knowing how to Pack Your Parachute and carry it with you at all times ready if you get laid off, change companies, or if funding dries up. In the show today I walk you through: 1. Dealing with the loss and grief of being laid off, losing friends and colleagues. 2. How to move into grief, including a breathing exercise, during the initial loss. 3. The three steps of packing your parachute which include rest and recovery, re-connecting and then finally reformulating yourself in a new way and restarting your career. I also talk about the inside company re-connection and how a "side hustle" within your company can be beneficial. Ultimately, packing your parachute builds the muscle of resilience–the core strength needed to use your parachute one or more times over the course of your career! Episode Highlights: [04:35] As of this recording, Google has just laid off 12,000 people. Microsoft also laid off 10,000 people. Before that, Amazon also laid off a large number of people. [05:13] Layoffs aren't uncommon. They are cyclical. This is why people need to be able to pack their own parachute. [05:41] It's also important to be where you are and grieve the loss. [06:27] The five stages of grief include shock and denial, anger, depression, detachment, and the final stage of acceptance. [08:28] You can invoke the eight second breathing technique to deal with these stages of grief. [08:52] Inhale for eight seconds. Hold your breath for one second. Exhale for eight seconds. [09:10] This is about the amount of time that it takes to shift your body from the sympathetic or fight or flight reaction to parasympathetic which takes you out of the fight or flight. [12:11] You have to rest and recover before you move on to anything else when packing your parachute. Develop a practice of rest and recovery throughout the day. [13:21] When you move on to dialogue and bargaining and reaching out to others is when you begin to reconnect. You begin to appreciate your new opportunity to move forward. [14:55] I share a story about when I wanted to move from selling hardware to software after a layoff. [17:07] The “inside the company” reconnection. This is a side hustle inside the company. I want to be connected across disciplines and operating units. It's an opportunity to go deeper and wider inside the company. [18:42] The final stage of grief is acceptance. This is when you restructure and restart who and how you are going to be in the career portion of your life. [19:33] The layoff may have actually been a bit of a gift and an opening. Use this time to reformat and restructure your work. [20:08] Ultimately, packing your parachute builds the muscle of resilience. Links & Resources: Schedule Free Listening Time with Gary@GaryDanoff.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Have you taken a leap lately? Many of us want to take a leap-in our business or personal lives-or may even be forced to these days? These leaps can come as unexpected shocks or amazing opportunities to invent something brand new for ourselves! I took a leap recently by having Gay Hendricks on What's Next Now and want to share our energetic conversation with you. I call Gay Hendricks ‘a life practitioner' and ‘holder-back of nothing'. I've just been on a three-plus month journey diving into some of his work, including The Big Leap, The Genius Zone, and Conscious Luck. If you aren't already familiar with his work, you'll be on the road to becoming a fan after listening to this episode. He shares so much wisdom on work, life, and relationships and the surprising intersection of all three. We kick off the show by talking about the critical importance of breath as a gateway to our emotions. We learn about how in the bedroom, the living room and the boardroom things work basically the same way. Most of us have an allergy to things going well for a very long time. Gay discusses how we can conquer self-sabotage and get back on track to overcome our upper limit problem (ULP) and actually achieve all we hope to and then some. Gay also shares how to discover your genius zone and the mindset shift that can create conscious luck. This is a great episode filled with life-changing wisdom. So go ahead: Take a Leap today by listening to this episode on What's Next Now! Links & Resources: Schedule Free Listening Time with Gary@GaryDanoff.com Hendricks Institute The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level The Genius Zone: The Breakthrough Process to End Negative Thinking and Live in True Creativity Conscious Loving: The Journey to Co-Committment Conscious Breathing: Breathwork for Health, Stress Release and Personal Mastery Conscious Luck: Eight Secrets to Intentionally Change Your Fortune Gay Hendricks Facebook Gay Hendricks LinkedIn Hearts in Harmony with Katie and Gay Hendricks Facebook Hearts In Harmony Twitter Hendricks Institute YouTube Gay Hendricks Instagram The Big Leap Podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

It is the word ‘Dare' in the new book by Dalia Feldheim, ‘Dare To Lead Like a Girl' that is the most provocative. What does that mean? How do Girls Lead? They show up, they play hard and they win! But they do it somewhat differently than most men and therein lies the lessons for all of us. In our 35 minute conversation, Dalia talks about some of the science and research behind why women have a different emotional reaction to anger and other triggers in the workplace than men do. The story continues and covers why men are more prone to get into action and fix things while women are more skilled at just sitting and listening before action. Sound familiar? Dalia also shares facts and possible solutions for the alarming drop in empathy from college graduates, new entrants to the workforce and many of us in the workplace today. When it comes to inspirational as well as functional leadership, there's a lot men can learn from women and Dalia shares ways we can all gain from each other to build strong and more resilient organizations. Episode Highlights: [02:46] Dalia shares credit for the successful #LikeAGirl marketing campaign with all of the marketing directors, but her inspiration came from the women of India and a girl she saw using light from passing cars to read outside at night. [03:46] She also shares a sad story about an in-home visit in India where a girl on her period was treated as unclean. Dalia was so disturbed by the experience that she wanted to do something about it. [05:39] Dalia has a passion for women's empowerment and wanted to use the P & G brand voice to talk about these issues. This is when they came up with the "Touch the Pickle" campaign. [06:50] #PlayLikeAGirl turned an insult into a women's empowerment icon. It's important to use our voice to better the world no matter what business we're in. [08:35] In Dare to Lead Like a Girl, there are the five P's of leadership. The last two are people and positivity. [09:36] Emotional bravery is about accepting that emotions are part of being human and bringing emotions to the workplace in an appropriate way. [11:20] Women have a tendency to sit with empathy longer than men. Men revert to problem-solving much faster. [13:35] Only 7% of our message is actually driven by what we say. 93% is how we say it. We need to share emotions in a way that doesn't completely overwhelm. [15:40] A trick for having more empathy by listening more or thinking about how listen equals silence. Leaders and parents need to create space not fill it. [17:26] In leadership training, we learn soft skills which are actually strengths. Data shows that EQ is responsible for 66% of success as managers and 85% as leaders. [21:36] Seven countries led by women leaders had better outcomes during the pandemic than countries led by men. With our changing environment, we need more historically female qualities like empathy and teamwork. [25:46] Dare to Lead Like a Girl isn't about masculine or feminine. It's about all of us connecting with traits that have been historically feminine. [28:13] After Dalia's TED Talk, she received many calls and reactions. She even received a call from a man in Australia who said he was a bully and seeking advice. [29:05] Love is always stronger than fear. When you operate with love, the results are always ten times stronger. [33:33] Dalia is on a mission to help leaders have better people skills. [34:09] Uppiness is a game that celebrates Dalia's leadership course. Links & Resources: Schedule Free Listening Time with Gary@GaryDanoff.com Dalia Feldheim --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Nobody accidentally becomes a 2-star General in the Army. Sometimes life just pulls you in. Your calling is your calling. That's what happened to MAJ General (Ret) Garrett Yee early in his career. He went from being a civilian in the insurance industry with a data platforms company to holding a non-partisan elected position in his California based community among other early experiences. Underpinning all of this was his Army reserve duty and when called into the Iraq War to manage the unified combatant communications to fight ISIS, he succeeded and was then called to the Pentagon. I will not try to replicate Garrett's voice in this summary. If you are a student of developing yourself as a leader as well as others in your organization, then you have to listen to this 29 minute conversation with Garrett. It is so good. You'll hear the stories and lessons around getting after it, staying focused on the mission, being grateful and the critical importance of women in leadership roles inside and outside the military. Through his own leadership experiences and success and with great humility Garrett gives great examples of why caring about the workforce is so important not just in words and policy but in how leaders live it and show it. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Talk about an unusual career path: how about going from elementary school teacher to advertising salesperson to becoming President and then CEO of a venture backed data platform company! Peter Goldstone details this and six other crucial forks in the road that produced amazing opportunities for learning, growth and re-invention spawning out several businesses, most of which were birthed in challenging economic times. Starting out in print advertising, Peter created a path for himself in the real estate media industry. He led and expanded the largest industry segment player in this space. He did this twice, first after being forced to leave the business he had grown because of tough economic times, and then invited back to grow it to a new level when new venture capital money came in. Peter never burned a bridge! Peter shares the story and details of seven key forks in the road we can all learn from. These include how he went from print to digital media and crafting a digital media playbook he evolved and used multiple times. Today, Peter is Chairman of the Board of Government Media Executive Group, a digital platforms and data company with four leading digital brands actively engaging with more than two million government executives. Peter's current fork in the road has him mentoring and coaching rising talent and other executives as helps to continue evolving the digital platform strategy. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

“Climbing ‘Down' the Ladder” This has an almost unnatural ring to it. Right? We are taught our whole careers to climb ‘up' the ladder. That's where people want to go; should want to go and do go. But not anymore. That's not the only choice. Whether you are part of the Great Resignation, Great Reconfiguration or know someone who is, you see or are part of the change taking place at work. Using the familiar ladder analogy, in this episode I talk about the other choices people are taking: 1. Staying put on the rung where they are; 2. Transferring onto a new ladder; or, 3. Climbing down the ladder. Ben Franklin makes an appearance by way of his famous framework for making decisions and I join Ben with stories and real life examples using my own career data as a reference point for considering these three ladder moves. I walk through the pros and cons of each ladder move for consideration by people in different stages of their career right now, and provide really valuable questions and a few short exercises to use for shedding light on why and when to consider each of these non-traditional ladder moves. Learn and be entertained listening to this 43 minute podcast. It turns out the most important thing about ladder moves are the questions you can use provided in the podcast. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

In this episode on “What's Next Now!” I share the story of how six key elements were put together into a framework for leading and preparing yourself: through and after COVID. Elements for leading yourself like keeping humor active in your day, engaging in charitable activities, and creating ways to unplug from your digital world for just a little while. Elements for leading others which include building trust and faith during trying times and launching new initiatives, consistently bringing fun into the environment in simple ways and building a wrapper of support around individual and team interactions daily. For example, would you ever imagine comparing what it takes to own and run a Domino's Pizza franchise to running a sales territory or professional services practice during COVID? It is part of this story and it works! These six elements make up the framework I used to lead the Google Workspace team through COVID, with everyone intact while meeting our business objectives. I hope you will gain insights you can use, be entertained, as well as learn an adaptable framework you can put into use. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

David has written 11 books (and counting), published multiple articles in Rolling Stone, New York Times and Wired, and has had at least two story adaptations into movies. David is well known as a journalist in and about the gaming industry; which is a blood relative of the technology industry. So I was interested in a lot of his stories. Dave talks about everything ranging from an early interview with Mark Zuckerberg when he lived in a one bedroom apartment in Palo Alto to his interview with Julian Assange and for the fun of it, goes all the way back to days at the University of Maryland when he brought in Hunter S. Thompson to speak. Listeners may see connections between gaming, future generations and evolving technologies all around us. David has a knack for finding and knowing people who want to build things. Even digital nomads working from caves in Portugal during the pandemic. He is somewhat addicting to listen to both in his speaking tone and how his stories draw you in for more! David's early fascination with the blend of technology, gaming and life-like characters whose stories we can't stop hearing about made having him on my show a great, great experience. Enjoy the listen!! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

All roads lead to somewhere, right? But can you imagine a road in Afghanistan or a high security post assignment at an overseas embassy leading to jobs at Google? Well, they did and two veterans are here to tell you the story of how they made it happen and why! I mean imagine, Yaser Chow a veteran of the marine corp serving at a high security post for an overseas embassy and Rahul Harpalani a former infantryman leading squadrons through battle in Afghanistan--both earning roles in new disciplines at Google. Their stories reveal their own discovery of passions founded in their respective service to our country and ignited upon leaving the service. Rahul talks about how he now uses a simple three word phrase the Army taught him: Calmness, Teamwork and Decisiveness in his work leading a product team at Google and surprisingly, the parallels to being a deployed field leader in the Army. Yaser describes how learning and understanding financial fidelity was the key to his journey in extending his military training into a career at Google. Together, their stories are inspiring for those looking to take what they have earned and learned in one part of their life and create a new path for themselves in the next! #Leadership #Veterans #GoogleCloud --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Who takes care of public sector employees who take care of us? Public sector roles can range from people we never see who process forms for registration to leaders who testify before Congress and everyone in between. Most if not all take and keep their jobs because of a calling to serve others, no matter how thankless the job may be. Just like in the private sector, people change careers at all levels in government. Sometimes, folks leave to address a greater calling. Alexis Bonnell is one of those people and is now an unofficial ally of public sector leaders. Her story reveals how she now serves public sector servants in a very different and needed way from her time as government executive. Public sector leaders are so many things: information absorbers, distillers, analyzers. Hear Alexis describe how she helps public sector servants become excited about their mission. And how she serves them by distilling the benefits of technology, like AI, into ways that can help them shift themselves and their organizations to higher value tasks. Alexis addresses topics important to public sector leaders: bringing humanity to their roles after Covid, serving as human offramps in how we absorb technology and how to address time poverty in whatever roles each of us performs today. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Tom Mendoza, former CEO, President and SVP of Sales at NetApp, shares stories about building a Forbes ‘100 Best Companies To Work For'. I had the privilege of working in Tom's organization for five years. He and I went on a couple of amazing sales calls together where I learned so much about Tom's preparation and approach. In this fast-paced 23 minute conversation, Tom describes the people, culture and pivots it took to build NetApp and more. With each segment of this interview, you can literally hear the enthusiasm in Tom's voice as he shares challenges overcome and his trademark career long commitment to making an impact. Tom gives examples of the balance between supporting when things need improving and injecting tension when things are going well, something he learned from Don Valentine, Founder of Sequoia Capital. Hear the story of how Tom figured out a way to Make An Impact by providing pizzas to engineers working past midnight or travelling around the world to see customers. With all the definitions of culture, learn Tom's point of view: the behavior you witness when you walk into a room. Listen and learn what Tom is up to now and how he is still making an impact in many places. Hear what's next for Tom and the entire 23 minute podcast on What's Next Now! #TomMendoza #Leadership #Forbes --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

This week's show is so much fun! Lindsay Boccardo went from being the lyrics writer and drummer in a rock band to researching the gaps in how millennials and boomers are effective in the workplace. It is such a great story and journey and the conversation is lively, open, direct and informative. Lindsay now works with public and private companies using humor, vulnerable stories and a bit of nostalgia to help teams work better together. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Have you ever considered how you became successful? Is it because of those natural skills and strengths "in your genes", or due to those you have intentionally developed over the years? Explore your answer and mine as I describe the mix of people, events, choices and random chance that have helped me succeed as a salesperson and coach. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Here we are in 2021 and can really take a look at how technology and human behavior are changing what we expect from work, how we work and where we work-in the future and importantly, right now-today! With an emphasis on the future of work in government, Brian Chidester interviews me as we discuss the 'how' and 'impact of' work done by those in public service and the contractors supporting them. We look at tools and solutions from Google and other cloud providers being used by and benefiting a multi-generational workforce supporting government missions. As you ease (or race) into 2021, spend 17 minutes enjoying The Future of Work; the Now of Work for ideas and insights on how habits and changes are impacting the future of government work, right now. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Alexander Titus has biked 3,000+ miles from Alaska to Silicon Valley, worked as a recruiter at Box, picked up a PhD in Biomedical Data Sciences and is now Chief Strategy Officer at ARMI. Here's the crazy thing...that's not even the full list! What's so great about the guy I call The Mighty Titus (you'll hear why in the episode) is the humility and quiet determination he uses to create each step of his career and in his public-private leadership roles. In his episode you will hear new attitudes and approaches you can use: like rather than denying inevitable failure, thinking of it as, ‘not yet succeeded'. For more ideas and actions on how you are going to define, claim and action your next career move follow me on Instagram @garydanoff or email me at gary@garydanoff.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

In the age of Zoom and Google Meet, does age really matter? With so many meetings happening over video, we do not have use of the full three dimensions we are used to when creating, shaping and building in person relationships. Yet our need to connect with customers, colleagues and partners is even stronger. Because of this, a door has opened. Previous perceptions and biases formed by age, rank and title are blurred and back-seated to what can be gained, given, advanced and actioned through video--with everyone! This episode reviews the great gift of having five generations in the workplace today and provides a 3-step approach you can use this week to maximize your learning and goal achievement with and from others, regardless of age! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

This week on What's Next Now! Karen Terrell, President, US Public Sector at OpenText, describes the great career she built based on the strengths of integrity, curiosity and respect. From early on as an individual contributor and then in multiple leadership roles, Karen shares how continuing to learn about, listen to, and respect others is central to growing her career and leadership style while also breaking new ground as a female leader. It is a great story, filled with laughter and camaraderie as I have known Karen for 19 years and once worked for her. You will learn AND enjoy hearing about the journey and What's Next Now! for Karen. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Hear Alicia McCaslin describe how she's styled her career and life! Beginning in the restaurant industry, then moving into the technology space and sales, Alicia now owns her own successful business as a personal stylist. What you'll love hearing about is Alicia's formula to thrive in her interactions with clients both through social media and in person. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Even before COVID many people were asking questions like: 'Can I run my own business? What does it take to be an entrepreneur? Can my passion gig turn into full-time?" Listen to the conversation featuring Kristian Rayner for answers to these and other questions. Kristian has a really interesting background including being a serial entrepreneur and also helping take an established business into new markets and currently works for MBO Partners to help people make the transition in how they work. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Listen to this highly energetic conversation with Jenn Sherman on how to integrate old school and new school to connect and build influence so that your genius is shared and valued! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Listen to this episode for five techniques to relax yourself and connect better with customers during video calls to meet your business goals by demonstrating greater connection. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Listen to the calming voice and amazing story of 'Born I'. Learn how he discovered his calling to combine music, rap and meditation into a business. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

New to selling, seasoned pro or someone who educates and persuades-- you will enjoy the phenomenon and process Gary talks about today. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Hear the story of overcoming doubt and timing to leave a great job at IBM and start a company! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Get inspired, laugh and enjoy a free recipe from a person who knows how to get the most value from takeout and blend it into the way we live and eat now. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Here's a new way to think about the end game altogether. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

It's easy to get rusty and fall back on staying in touch with customers. Hear a short story on how to invent a new way to offer value and stay in touch! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

During COVID, using video for meetings gives everyone a view into home based work places. It's so personal: the settings, the scene, the sounds, the views...on and on. Listen for ideas to make this uniquely personal time really count for you and your customers, students, patients. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

You can't really lie to 5th graders. They see right through it. In fact, they see right into your truth, your intention and more. So when asked to describe the art and science of sales to a group of 5th graders I was super nervous and really challenged. The 4-letter acronym, "Like, Listen, Learn & Persuade (LLL&P)" seemed to work. The kids loved it and so have many professionals--both career salespeople and those who rely on persuasion and audience building for their success. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

We all wish you we could always get what we want. It doesn't work that way in business, relationships and life. But like the Rolling Stones, " ...you get what you need". This episode shares the story of trial, error, failure and success on my own journey across a section or two of a really satisfying career so far. With humility and gratitude for each peak and valley, listen and grab some insights and practices you can apply to your own circumstance, RIGHT NOW. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

What could be more fun than a night out to celebrate a birthday with a good friend? What made it more fun was discovering great customer service provided by an entertainment vendor (iFly) and how one staff member had a lasting impact by using 'appreciate' instead of 'thanks'. Great story. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Maintaining human connection during social distancing does not have to mean, 'human distancing'. Combining social media and until now, less practiced forms of neighborhood connecting, the episode shares ideas and insights on how to stay human with colleagues, customers, friends and family during a period of social distancing. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

Hear about the inspiration, birth, fun and foundations of What's Next Now! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message

--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/gary437/message