Podcasts about building trust

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born sits down with Jolynn Ledgerwood, learning and development expert, certified Gallup Strengths coach, and founder of Elevate Your Talent. With over 25 years of experience working with global brands like PepsiCo, Frito-Lay, and Toyota, Jolynn introduces us to a transformative methodology called LEGO® Serious Play, a hands-on approach that sparks creativity, strengthens collaboration, and unlocks hidden insights within teams.Together, Natalie and Jolynn explore how “thinking with your hands” activates up to 80% more brain power, why play is vital for innovation and well-being, and how leaders can create environments where every voice, from the CEO to the intern, has a seat at the table. From high school athletes to corporate teams, this episode proves that the opposite of play isn't work, it's stagnation.[00:00 – 03:00] Jolynn's Journey into LEGO® Serious PlayFrom corporate learning roles at PepsiCo and Toyota to creative facilitation.How LEGO® reinvented itself and how Jolynn discovered its team-building power.Only 100 certified practitioners in the U.S. versus 15,000 in Europe, why Americans still struggle to see “play” as productive.[03:01 – 07:00] The Science of Thinking with Your HandsUsing LEGO® unlocks up to 80% more brain power.The four-step methodology: question → build → share → reflect.How creativity allows all personality types, even quiet thinkers, to express themselves fully.[07:01 – 10:00] Building Trust and Curiosity Through PlayLEGO® Serious Play creates safe, judgment-free conversations.Why every build is “right” for the person who made it.Metaphors and subconscious meaning in simple pieces and the power of asking, “Tell me more about what you built.”[10:01 – 14:00] Real-World Example: A Basketball Team's TransformationFacilitating a workshop with a high school girls' team to build unity.How players gained empathy and emotional awareness through their builds.Discovering that supporting teammates means seeing beyond performance.[14:01 – 18:00] Courageous Leadership and Unexpected InsightsWhy it takes a brave leader to invite play into the workplace.LEGO® as a tool for perspective-taking and emotional intelligence.Seeing the same model from different angles and how it changes interpretation.[18:01 – 22:00] Building Culture in Times of ChangeHow LEGO® sessions rebuild morale after layoffs or restructuring.The danger of calling connection “fluff” and why it's business-critical.Creating “simple guiding principles” from each session to carry forward.[22:01 – 25:00] Play as a Pathway to InnovationThe opposite of play isn't work, it's depression.Inviting creativity through LEGO®, Play-Doh, or even watercolor.How play fosters engagement, focus, and retention in teams.[25:01 – 27:00] Final Reflections and Call to LeadersWhy leaders must make space for curiosity and fun at work.Mary Poppins wisdom: “In every job that must be done, there's an element of fun.”When teams play together, innovation follows naturally.Quotes:“It takes a courageous leader to bring play into the workplace.” – Jolynn Ledgerwood“Leaders who embrace creativity give permission for authenticity.” – Jolynn Ledgerwood“You never know what your team is capable of until you invite play into the process.” – Jolynn LedgerwoodWebsite: elevateyourtalent.coLinkedIn: Jolynn Ledgerwood Podcast: Play for PerformanceIf this conversation inspired you, leave a review and share this episode with a leader who's ready to reimagine what creativity and connection look like at work.

What makes a great business partner, and how can you actually measure it? In this solo episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius continues his deep dive into The Best Partner Scorecard, a tool he created to help entrepreneurs, founders, and leaders assess the people they go into business with. After exploring the first five traits in part one, Darius now unpacks the remaining five qualities that separate great partners from good ones. He explains how these traits shape trust, communication, and alignment, and why overlooking them can lead to costly mistakes. Drawing from real experiences, Darius shows how the right partnership can accelerate growth while the wrong one can derail even the best ideas. Part 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/387-the-best-partner-scorecard-how-to-evaluate-your/id1555334180?i=1000734370314  In this episode, Darius will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to the Good Partner Scorecard (02:29) Exploring the First Five Qualities of Great Partners (04:44) Integrity and Honesty in Partnerships (09:38) Building Trust and Loyalty (15:01) The Importance of Kindness in Business Relationships (20:05) Caring About Personal Lives: A Key to Partnership (24:34) Aligning Work Styles and Values for Success Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how Michael Rebelo went from raising his first $1M as a 20-year-old to becoming a partner in over $15M of multifamily investments. In this episode, Michael shares the exact steps he took to grow his portfolio and build relationships with high-net-worth investors. From leveraging his background in sales to using mentorship as a vehicle for growth, he reveals how he navigated his journey with determination and strategy. Michael also explains how he identifies profitable deals, raises capital, and the lessons he learned from his early challenges. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone serious about scaling their investment portfolio and raising capital successfully. 5 Key TakeawaysLeveraging Sales Experience for Fundraising – Michael explains how his background in sales helped him raise capital by building relationships and closing deals effectively.Starting Early with Mentorship – He shares how mentoring from successful investors helped him scale quickly, proving that learning from others can fast-track success.Identifying Profitable Deals – Michael dives into the methods he uses to find deals that meet his investment criteria, emphasizing due diligence and market research.Building Trust with Investors – He explains the importance of transparency and consistent communication to foster trust and long-term investor relationships.Overcoming Early Struggles – Michael discusses how he dealt with initial setbacks, including how he navigated the challenges of securing his first $1M.About Tim MaiTim Mai is a real estate investor, fund manager, mentor, and founder of HERO Mastermind for REI coaches.He has helped many real estate investors and coaches become millionaires. Tim continues to help busy professionals earn income and build wealth through passive investing.He is also a creative marketer and promoter with incredible knowledge and experience, which he freely shares. He has lifted himself from the aftermath of war, achieving technical expertise in computers, followed by investment success in real estate, management skills, and a lofty position among real estate educators and internet marketers.Tim is an industry leader who has acquired and exited well over $50 million worth of real estate and is currently an investor in over 2700 units of multifamily apartments.Connect with TimWebsite: Capital Raising PartyFacebook: Tim Mai | Capital Raising Nation Instagram: @timmaicomTwitter: @timmaiLinkedIn: Tim MaiYouTube: Tim Mai

What defines a truly versatile product leader? In this episode hosted by Rachel Owens, Product Leader Tulsi Dharmarajan shares how moving across industries sharpened her ability to read context, navigate ambiguity, and elevate product work from execution to strategic problem-solving. She unpacks how curiosity fuels better decisions, how empathy strengthens collaboration, and how adaptability turns complexity into opportunity. The conversation offers practical guidance on earning trust, communicating with clarity, and staying effective in a landscape where expectations shift constantly.

Welcome to "The Brand Called You"! In this episode, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Mark Steiner, Co-Founder and CEO of GigSalad, to explore his unique journey from acting and talent management to building one of the leading online event marketplaces.Mark shares pivotal moments that shaped his career, discusses his gut-driven leadership style infused with compassion and emotional intelligence, and reveals how his adoption and later ADHD diagnosis shaped his empathetic approach to connection and leadership. Hear about GigSalad's founding story, its strategies for building trust in a fast-changing digital world, and the profound impact the platform has had on artists, entertainers, and event planners alike.Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative professional, or just fascinated by innovation in entertainment and events, this episode is packed with inspiration, deep insights, and practical wisdom.

ASBO International Board member, Melissa Fettkether, Director of Finance at Postville CSD in Iowa, breaks down how to build trust with all stakeholders and how to leverage innovations while navigating school finance and leadership.

Get 90 Days of Fellow's AI Meeting Assistant FREE at fellow.ai/coo This week on Between Two COOs, Michael sits down with Harris Clarke, COO at GuideCX, to talk about what steady leadership actually looks like inside fast-changing companies.Harris started his career in protocol and operations for the U.S. Department of State, where “process” wasn't just a buzzword — it was survival. He shares how those lessons translate to running a modern SaaS organization and why purpose, process, and payoff are the anchors of any good meeting.They dig into:How government discipline shaped Harris's operating styleThe “three P's” framework for productive meetingsWhy decision speed is overrated — and what Harris means by “Did anyone die or go to jail?”What he learned from executive coaching and board feedbackHow GuideCX built a new product category around customer onboardingHow AI is quietly reshaping how he manages teams and prepares communicationsWhy calm is a competitive advantage during crisis moments like SVBMichael also gives context at the top: this episode was recorded across two sessions, after a recording issue mid-interview (and yes, he's now officially a Riverside convert).It's a conversation about building trust, running tight systems, and keeping your head when everything around you is changing.Harris Clarke on LinkedInGuideCXMichael Koenig on LinkedInBetween Two COO's WebsiteEpisode Website 

Welcome to Clio Con Clips 2025, recorded live from Boston and proudly sponsored by Clio, the world's leading legal technology company transforming the legal experience for all.On today's minisode, we talk to A.J. Axelrod. He is the VP of Payments and Financial Services at Clio, responsible for leading the company's payment and financial product innovations. A.J. is focused on making legal services more accessible through new solutions like Pay Later and Clio Capital, aiming to remove financial barriers for both clients and law firms. A.J. is dedicated to compliance and security, works closely with reputable partners, and values customer feedback to drive adoption and usability. His approach emphasizes clear, context-specific solutions for legal professionals, and he is enthusiastic about Clio's mission and advancements showcased at his first Clio Con.So why should you be listening in? You can hear Rob and A.J. discussing:- Innovation and Updates in Clio's Legal Payments- Addressing Legal Affordability through Flexible Payment Solutions- Ensuring Compliance and Building Trust in Financial Technology- User Feedback and Rapid Adoption of Clio Payment Features- The Evolving Intersection of Legal Tech and FinTechConnect with A.J. Axelrod here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajaxelrod

XIs Shared Future In Cyberspace: Building Trust, Rules & Resilience For a Safer Digital World. China Daily Pod 10 by Capital FM

Rob Nicholls, general manager for programmes and projects at palm oil business Musim Mas, and Kaixiang Chin, sustainability manager for Asia at Bunge, talk with Ian Welsh about their long-term collaboration to strengthen the capacity of independent smallholders in Indonesia. They explain how farmer training, regenerative practices and local composting projects are helping to build resilience, improve yields and empower women and young farmers.

How Can B2B Marketers and Sales Teams Strengthen Results by Slowing Down Their Content Strategy?In this episode of B2B Marketing Excellence & AI, Donna Peterson shares an honest reflection on her lifelong tendency to rush, whether lifting weights or creating marketing campaigns, and what it taught her about strength, patience, and long-term results.Donna explains how slowing down helped her focus on what truly matters and how that same mindset applies to B2B marketing and sales alignment. When teams take time to understand their audience, measure what is working, and give each message more meaning, they build stronger relationships and measurable results. It is not about doing more; it is about doing what matters well.Through this episode, listeners will discover how slowing down their B2B marketing strategy can lead to greater clarity, trust, and long-term sales success. Donna encourages marketers and sales professionals to pause, reflect, and give each message the attention it deserves, because meaningful connections take time to build.Key Takeaways:Review your recent campaigns. Ask: Was this content created for output or for outcome? Identify what truly resonated with your audience and what felt rushed. Taking the time to reflect helps uncover insights that strengthen future marketing results.Add more weight to your message. Instead of producing high-volume, low-value content, focus on meaningful, insight-driven pieces that solve real problems and strengthen trust. Depth creates credibility and lasting impact.Establish a sustainable rhythm. Develop a steady pace for marketing and sales efforts that allows time for reflection, collaboration, and improvement. Consistency with purpose leads to stronger relationships, better alignment, and more qualified opportunities.Donna also highlights how AI tools can support this process by analyzing engagement patterns and helping teams spend more time building authentic connections. Using AI in B2B marketing strategy allows marketers to stay thoughtful and intentional without losing the human element.This episode will inspire B2B marketers and sales teams to slow down, focus on quality over quantity, and strengthen results through genuine, relationship-based marketing.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Are You Rushing Your Marketing?00:14 Personal Story: Fitness and Marketing Parallels00:58 The Problem with Rushing in Marketing02:15 The Importance of Slowing Down03:08 Creating Meaningful Content04:37 Building Trust with Your Audience05:45 Steps to Improve Your Marketing Strategy14:55 The Role of AI in Marketing16:29 Establishing a Sustainable Marketing Rhythm21:56 Conclusion: Authenticity and Long-Term SuccessContact Information: *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you'd like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

In this episode of The Accountant's Flight Plan Podcast, we sit down with Kristen Corey, founder of Media Books Agency, to talk about how accountants can use marketing to strengthen their brand, attract ideal clients, and communicate value beyond compliance work. With experience in both public accounting and marketing, Kristen shares how her journey from working as an auditor to owning her own marketing agency taught her the importance of storytelling and connection in the profession.Key Timestamps00:57: Introduction of Kristen Corey and her journey from auditor to marketer03:00: Building a marketing career abroad and launching Media Books Agency07:00: The importance of communication skills for accountants10:10: Why every firm needs marketing, even if referrals are strong13:05: Using AI tools like ChatGPT for tone, content, and creative brainstorming16:31: Marketing strategies for small accounting firms under $5M17:29: The power of newsletters and relationship-based marketing20:41: Under-the-radar marketing tactic: consistency on social media23:54: Funny story: catching potential fraud during an internship27:20: Book recommendation: Extraordinary Circumstances by Cynthia CooperLink to full listing: https://poegroupadvisors.com/practice/sc2038/ Firm Highlights:- Young, energetic owner committed to staying 10+ years to run and grow the firm.- Selling 70–100% equity, with plans to offer key employees an ownership stake.- 3+ CPAs on staff and over 20 employees.- High-net-worth clients with strong loyalty and consistent referrals.- 78% of services tied to business clients.

Vuokko Aro is Chief Design Officer at Monzo, where she has led the design function for nearly a decade through hypergrowth from startup to one of the UK's most loved fintech brands. She oversees a team of over 100 people across product design, brand design, and user research. On today's show we chat about scaling design teams, building trust through transparency, the value of constraints, and how to focus on strengths rather than weaknesses as you grow in your career.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro02:26 – Vuokko's journey into design and joining Monzo06:16 – Building in the open and transparency as a core value11:42 – Scaling design whilst maintaining craft and quality23:12 – Building design culture and protecting craft at scale37:44 – Managing stakeholders and navigating disagreement48:36 – Transitioning from IC to leadership and learning to let go55:48 – Career development and focusing on strengths01:03:22 – End of show questionsConnect with VuokkoLinkedInSelected links from the episodeThe Monzo Book of Money

How to unlock the power of groups through collective communication.They say teamwork makes the dream work. But as Colin Fisher knows, unlocking the power of groups requires a specific kind of collective communication.Fisher is an associate professor of organizations and innovation at University College London School of Management and author of The Collective Edge: Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups. His research reveals the dichotomy of group dynamics: "Groups can be the pinnacle of human accomplishment," he says. "But groups also have these tendencies to restrict us, to take away our individuality, and to sometimes make us the worst versions of ourselves.” The key, he argues, is fostering communication that maximizes the creative synergy of collaboration while minimizing the pressure to conform.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Fisher joins host Matt Abrahams to share evidence-based strategies for effective teamwork, from selecting the ideal group size to fostering psychological safety. Whether with our coworkers, our families, or our friends, Fisher's insights reveal how collective communication can make or break group success.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Colin FisherColin's Book: The Collective EdgeEp.174 Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful MomentsEp.124 Making Meetings Meaningful Pt. 1: How to Structure and Organize More Effective Gatherings   Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:19) - Advantages and Disadvantages of Groups (03:53) - What Makes Teams Successful (05:37) - The Ideal Group Size (06:33) - Building Psychological Safety (08:49) - Launching a Team for Success (13:10) - Making Meetings More Effective (16:25) - The Final Three Questions (23:13) - Conclusion   ********This episode is sponsored by Grammarly. Let Grammarly take the busywork off your plate so you can focus on high-impact work. Download Grammarly for free today

 What you'll learn in this episode:● How to handle stress before it happens● Why caring proactively strengthens trust and loyalty● The difference between excuses and habits● How to lead people who resist change● The secret to consistency when motivation fades● Why respecting challenges doesn't mean giving them power● How to build a “pre-decision compass” for when life gets bumpy  To find out more about Dan Rochon and the CPI Community, you can check these links:Website: No Broke MonthsPodcast: No Broke Months for Salespeople PodcastInstagram: @donrochonxFacebook: Dan RochonLinkedIn: Dan RochonTeach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead

Micheal Chernow joins Something For Everybody this week. Michael is a serial entrepreneur, podcast host, coach, and professional athlete. In this conversation, Michael shares his journey of prioritizing health, overcoming addiction, and the importance of self-care. He discusses the significance of morning routines, the three C's of success, and the role of relationships in happiness. Michael emphasizes the need for asking for help, proactive mental health strategies, and the challenges of fatherhood. He also reflects on maintaining intimacy in long-term relationships and the lessons learned from being a father. - See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://everybodyspod.com/deals/ - Shop For Everybody  Use code SFE10 for 10% OFF

Leadership today demands more than vision or authority—it requires trust. In workplaces where uncertainty and change are constant, the leaders who succeed are those who create environments where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to deliver their best work. As Damian Goldvarg shared in our recent conversation, effective leadership is not about control—it's about cultivating trust and accountability so that teams can thrive without micromanagement.Trust is not a soft skill—it's a strategic one. When leaders trust their teams, they create the conditions for psychological safety, innovation, and shared ownership. When that trust is missing, fear fills the void. Micromanagement takes over, creativity stalls, and engagement plummets.The foundation of effective leadership lies in understanding that trust enables accountability without micromanagement. Teams that operate from a place of trust know what's expected of them and have the confidence to deliver. They hold themselves accountable not because they're being watched, but because they're invested in the outcome.Trust Is a Choice We MakeTrust doesn't happen by default—it's a choice, an intentional decision we make every day in our interactions. Some people give it freely; others hold it close, shaped by past experiences or team dynamics. For leaders, understanding their own relationship with trust is the first step toward building it.When leaders choose to trust, they communicate belief in their team's competence and integrity. When they don't, that skepticism often gets mirrored back. The energy of distrust—whether it shows up in tone, body language, or behavior—can create a cycle of fear and disengagement.That's why the most effective leaders cultivate self-awareness and curiosity. Instead of asking, “Why did this go wrong?” they ask, “What's behind this?” or “What support might be needed here?” This shift from judgment to inquiry transforms how teams operate.Embrace Discomfort to Build TrustBuilding trust often means stepping into uncomfortable territory. Whether it's addressing performance issues, navigating layoffs, or discussing mental health, leaders must be willing to engage in conversations that stretch them.Avoiding discomfort may protect leaders from awkward moments—but it prevents growth. In contrast, embracing discomfort builds credibility. When leaders demonstrate that they're willing to have hard conversations with honesty and care, they model the very accountability they expect from others.As Damian noted, discomfort is not a signal to retreat—it's an invitation to deepen trust. Asking questions like “What's the worst that can happen?” or “What do you need from me right now?” helps to reframe fear into opportunity.Developing Your Inner Coaching VoiceLeadership requires a new kind of fluency—one rooted in self-reflection and emotional intelligence. The inner coaching voice is that quiet guide that helps leaders pause, assess, and respond rather than react.When we work with external coaches, over time we begin to internalize their guidance. That becomes our inner coach—the voice that reminds us to breathe before responding, to question assumptions, to align actions with values. Developing this inner voice helps leaders model what self-accountability looks like.It also helps leaders navigate emotional triggers and stay grounded when challenges arise. Leaders who can name their emotions, understand their impact, and stay centered during conflict create stability for others. They embody psychological safety in action.Human-Centered Leadership Is the FutureThe traditional command-and-control models of leadership no longer work in a world where people crave meaning, connection, and trust. Human-centered leadership focuses on people first—recognizing that performance follows well-being.This kind of leadership blends empathy, coaching, and emotional intelligence with clarity and accountability. It's not about being “soft”; it's about being real. It's about knowing when to step in and when to step back. It's about trusting your people enough to let them lead, and supporting them when they stumble.When leaders model trust, they give their teams permission to take risks, share ideas, and own outcomes. The result? Stronger performance, higher engagement, and cultures where accountability is shared, not enforced.The Bottom LineBuilding trust and accountability isn't a one-time initiative—it's an ongoing practice. It requires courage, curiosity, and compassion. It asks leaders to look inward before pointing outward.When we choose trust, we create psychological safety. When we embrace discomfort, we strengthen relationships. And when we lead with humanity, we build organizations where people—and results—thrive.If you're ready to explore what it looks like to build a Culture of Care in your organization—and the role the leader-as-coach plays in making that happen—reach out to learn more about our upcoming programs. Let's build workplaces rooted in trust, accountability, and care—together. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit deiafter5.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Karen is joined by Barr Moses, CEO and Co-founder of Monte Carlo, to explore how AI agents are transforming how data teams work — and why trust must sit at the heart of every data and AI initiative.   Barr shares how troubleshooting agents save days of work mimic human reasoning to identify and fix data incidents, how teams can “operationalize trust” in their data and/or AI systems, and what it really takes to bridge the gap between hype and reliable business value.   Together, they unpack the pressure data teams face to deliver AI quickly, the realities of observability, and why technology alone isn't enough .   Whether you're building AI systems, leading a data function, or simply trying to make sense of the fast-changing landscape, this episode will help you understand what it takes to build data and AI you can trust.

In this episode of The Insurance Producers Podcast, host Cyrus Jaffery sits down with Ted Stuckey for a deep and forward-thinking conversation on the evolving world of insurance. Together, they unpack what it truly means to build trust in today's industry — shifting the focus from “selling coverage” to building confidence with clients.They dive into the rise of local agents in the hourglass market, explore how Wind & Hail deductible buybacks are reshaping the future of homeowners' insurance, and discuss why small, intentional acts can lead to massive impact. Ted and Cyrus also share insights on doing the unscalable things that actually move the needle, and how to find excitement and purpose in the daily grind of insurance.If you're an agent, producer, or leader looking to level up your mindset and approach to growth, this episode is packed with the kind of perspective that helps you stand out, stay human, and stay ahead.

Send us a text0:00 - LocalAgentFinder's Impact on Real Estate Success 07:24 - Strategies for Selling Real Estate Before and After Holidays 12:23 - Making Real Estate Decisions Amid Interest Rate Uncertainty 18:03 - Building Trust and Integrity in Real Estate Listings 29:39 - Real Estate Strategies and Holiday Preparations in Australia  Guests:✅Kon Stathopoulos — Principal at McGrath - Parramatta, leading over 300 agents across 32 offices.✅David Walker — Principal at Ray White Upper North Shore, consistently ranked among the top performers in Australia.  *I am a  @LocalAgentFinder sponsored ambassador: https://www.localagentfinder.com.au/

Raya Chisesi is a sales expert, author, and speaker who helps remote sales professionals build authentic connections and succeed through voice-first communication. She is the author of Inside Voice and brings a unique blend of practical experience and academic insight to empower sellers to lead with clarity, empathy, and confidence in today's virtual landscape.SHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of the Selling from the Heart Podcast, Larry Levine and Darrell Amy are joined by Raya Chisesi, author of Inside Voice and Campaign Marketing Manager at Savvas Learning Company. Raya shares her insights on the power of authentic communication in inside and remote sales, exploring how to build genuine trust in a digital environment.The discussion highlights practical strategies for uniting inside and outside sales teams, amplifying the often-overlooked voices of inside sales professionals, and bringing contagious energy and passion to every customer interaction. Together, they explore how authenticity, collaboration, and enthusiasm can transform sales relationships and elevate both performance and company culture. KEY TAKEAWAYSPassion and authenticity are essential in sales—customers can sense your energy and excitement.Building trust and genuine relationships—virtually or in person—is at the heart of successful selling.Inside sales professionals have unique perspectives that drive company growth and customer alignment.Collaboration between inside and outside sales teams fosters unity, innovation, and success.Celebrating both small and big wins helps sustain motivation, engagement, and positivity.HIGHLIGHT QUOTESWhen you're passionate about it, it comes across in your voice, in your tone, in your words.The energy you bring to the room—virtually or in person—makes all the difference.Inside sales, lift up your voice. You have so much to share about what customers are really looking for based on your experience.If you are happy and excited about what you, your company, and your coworkers are doing, it will show.

Welcome back to Snafu with Robin Zander. In this episode, I'm joined by Kevan Lee and Shannon Deep, co-founders of Bonfire – a creative studio reimagining what it means to build brands, tell stories, and live meaningful lives. We talk about how Bonfire began as a "Trojan horse" – a branding agency on the surface, but really a vehicle for deeper questions: What does fulfilling work look like? How do we find meaning beyond our careers? And how can business become a space for honesty, connection, and growth? Kevan and Shannon share how their partnership formed, what it takes to build trust as co-founders, and how vulnerability and self-awareness fuel their collaboration. We explore their path from tech and theater to building Bonfire, hosting creative retreats, and helping founders tell more authentic stories. We also dive into how AI is changing storytelling, the myth of "broetry" on LinkedIn, and why transparency is the future of marketing. If you're curious about what's next for creativity, leadership, and meaningful work, this episode is for you. And for more conversations like this, stay tuned for Responsive Conference 2026, where we'll be continuing the dialogue on human connection, business, and the evolving role of AI. Start (0:00) How Bonfire Started (14:25) Robin notes how transparent and intentional they've been building their business and community Says Bonfire feels like a 21st-century agency – creative, human, and not traditional Invites them to describe what they're building and their vision for it Kevan's response: Admits he feels imposter syndrome around being called an "entrepreneur" Laughs that it's technically true but still feels strange Describes Bonfire as partly a traditional branding agency They work with early-stage startups Help with brand strategy, positioning, messaging, and differentiation. But says the heart of their work is much deeper "We create spaces for people to explore what a fulfilling life looks like – one that includes work, but isn't defined by it." Their own careers inspired this – jobs that paid well but felt empty, or jobs that felt good but didn't pay the bills Bonfire became their way to build something more meaningful A space to have these conversations themselves And to invite others into it This includes community, retreats, and nontraditional formats Jokes that the agency side is a Trojan horse – a vehicle to fund the work they truly care about Shannon adds: They're agnostic about what Bonfire "does" Could be a branding agency, publishing house, even an ice cream shop "Money is just gas in the engine." The larger goal is creating spaces for people to explore their relationship to work Especially for those in transition, searching for meaning, or redefining success Robin reflects on their unusual path Notes most marketers who start agencies chase awards and fame But Shannon and Kevan built Bonfire around what they wished existed Recalls their past experiences Kevan's path from running a publication (later sold to Vox) to Buffer and then Oyster Shannon's shared time with him at Oyster Mentions their recent milestone – Bonfire's first live retreat in France 13 participants, including them Held in a rented castle For a two-year-old business, he calls it ambitious and impressive Asks: "How did it go? What did people get out of it?" Shannon on the retreat Laughs that they're still processing what it was They had a vibe in mind – but not a fixed structure One participant described it as "a wellness retreat for marketers" Not wrong – but also not quite right Attendees came from tech and non-tech backgrounds The focus: exploring people's most meaningful relationship to work Who you are when you're not at your desk How to bring that awareness back to real life — beyond castles and catered meals People came at it from different angles Some felt misaligned with their work Others were looking for something new Everyone was at a crossroads in their career Kevan on the space they built The retreat encouraged radical honesty People shared things like: "I have this job because I crave approval." "I care about money as a status symbol." "I hate what I do, but I don't know what else I'd be good at." They didn't force vulnerability, but wanted to make it safe if people chose it They thought deeply about values – what needed to be true for that kind of trust Personally, Kevan says the experience shifted his identity From "marketer" to something else – maybe "producer," maybe "creator" The retreat made him realize how many paths are possible "Now I just want to do more of this." Robin notes there are "so many threads to pull on" Brings up family business and partnerships Shares his own experience growing up in his dad's small business Talks about lessons from Robin's Cafe and the challenges of partnerships Says he's fascinated by co-founder dynamics – both powerful and tricky Asks how Shannon and Kevan's working relationship works What it was like at Oyster Why they decided to start Bonfire together And how it's evolved after the retreat Kevan on their beginnings He hired Shannon at Oyster – she was Editorial Director, he was SVP of Marketing Worked together for about a year and a half Knew early on that something clicked Shared values Similar worldview Trusted each other When Oyster ended, partnering up felt natural – "Let's figure out what's next, together." Robin observes their groundedness Says they both seem stable and mature, which likely helps the partnership Jokes about his own chaos running Robin's Café – late nights, leftover wine, cold quinoa Asks Shannon directly: "Do you still follow Kevan's lead?" Shannon's laughs and agrees they're both very regulated people But adds that it comes from learned coping mechanisms Says they've both developed pro-social ways to handle stress People-pleasing Overachievement Perfectionism Intellectualizing feelings instead of expressing them "Those are coping mechanisms too," she notes, "but at least they keep us calm when we talk." Building Trust and Partnership (14:54–23:15) Shannon says both she and Kevan have done deep personal work. Therapy, reflection, and self-inquiry are part of their toolkit. That helps them handle a relationship that's both intimate and challenging. They know their own baggage. They try not to take the other person's reactions personally. It doesn't always work—but they trust they'll work through conflict. When they started Bonfire: They agreed the business world is unpredictable. So they made a pinky swear: Friends first, business second. The friendship is the real priority. When conflict comes up, they ask: "Is this really life or death—or are we just forgetting what matters?" Shannon goes back to the question and clarifies  Says they lead in different ways. Each has their "zone of genius." They depend on each other's strengths. It's not leader and follower – it's mutual reliance. Shannon explains: Kevan's great at momentum: He moves things forward and ships projects fast. Shannon tends to be more perfectionist: Wants things to be fully formed before releasing. Kevan adds they talk often about "rally and rest." Kevan rallies, he thrives on pressure and urgency. Shannon rests, she values slowing down and reflection. Together, that creates a healthy rhythm.  Robin notes lingering habits Wonders if any "hangovers" from their Oyster days remain. Kevan reflects  At first, he hesitated to show weakness. Coming from a manager role, vulnerability felt risky. Shannon quickly saw through it. He realized openness was essential, not optional. Says their friendship and business both rely on honesty. Robin agrees and says he wouldn't discourage co-founders—it's just a big decision. Like choosing a spouse, it shapes your life for years. Notes he's never met with one of them without the other. "That says something," he adds. Their partnership clearly works—even if it takes twice the time. Rethinking Marketing (23:19) Kevan's light moment: Asks if Robin's comment about their teamwork was feedback for them. Robin's observation  Notes how in sync Shannon and Kevan are. Emails one, gets a reply CC'd with the other. Says the tempo of Bonfire feels like their collaboration itself. Wonders what that rhythm feels like internally. Kevan's response  Says it's partly intentional, partly habit. They genuinely enjoy working together. Adds they don't chase traditional agency milestones. No interest in Ad Age lists or Cannes awards. Their goal: have fun and make meaningful work. Robin pivots to the state of marketing (24:04) Mentions the shift from Madison Avenue's glory days to today's tech-driven world. Refers to Mad Men and the "growth at all costs" startup era. Notes how AI and tech are changing how people see their role in work and life. Kevan's background  Came from startups, not agencies. Learned through doing, not an MBA. Immersed in books like Hypergrowth and Traction. Took Reforge courses—knows the mechanics of scaling. Before that, worked as a journalist. Gained curiosity and calm under pressure, but also urgency. Admits startup life taught him both good and bad habits. Robin notes  Neither lives the Madison Avenue life. Kevan's in Boise. Shannon's in France. Shannon's background Started in theater – behind the scenes as a dramaturg and producer. Learned how to shape emotion and tell stories. Transitioned into brand strategy in New York. Worked at a top agency, Siegel+Gale. Helped global B2B and B2C clients define mission, values, and design. Competed with big names like Interbrand and Pentagram. Later moved in-house at tech startups. Saw how B2B marketing often tries to "act cool" like B2C. Learned to translate creative ideas into language that convinces CFOs. Says her role often meant selling authentic storytelling to risk-averse execs. Admits she joined marketing out of necessity. "I was 27, broke in New York, and needed a parking spot for my storytelling skills." Robin connects the dots  Notes how Silicon Valley's "growth" culture mirrors old ad-world burnout. Growth at all costs. Not much room for creative autonomy. Adds most big agencies are now owned by holding companies. The original Madison Avenue independence is nearly gone. Robin's reflection  Mentions how AI-generated content is changing video and storytelling. Grateful his clients still value human connection. Asks how Bonfire helps brands tell authentic stories now that the old model is fading. Kevan's take  Says people now care less about "moments" and more about audiences. It's not about one viral hit—it's about building consistency. Brands need to stand for something, and keep showing up. People want that outcome, even if they don't want the hard work behind it. Shannon adds Notes rising skepticism among audiences. Most content people see isn't from who they follow, it's ads and algorithms. Consumers are subconsciously filtering out the noise. Says that's why human storytelling matters more than ever. People crave knowing a real person is behind the message. AI can mimic tone but not authenticity. Adds it's hard to convince some clients of that. Authentic work isn't fast or easily measured. It requires belief in the process and a value system to match. That's tough when your client's investors only want quick returns. Robin agrees  "Look at people's incentives and I'll tell you who they are." Shannon continues Wonders where their responsibility ends. Should they convince people of their values? Or just do the work and let the right clients come? Kevan says they've found a sweet spot with current clients. Mostly bootstrapped founders. Work with them long-term instead of one-off projects. Says that's the recipe that fits Bonfire's values and actually works. The Quarter Analogy (35:36) Robin quotes BJ Fogg: "Don't try to persuade people of your worldview. Look for people who already want what you can teach, and just show them how." He compares arguing with people who don't align to "an acrobat arguing with gravity – gravity will win 100% of the time." The key: harness momentum instead of fighting resistance. Even a small, aligned audience is better than chasing everyone. Kevan shares Bonfire's failed experiment with outbound sales: They tried reaching out to recently funded AI companies. "It got us nowhere," he admits. That experience reminded him how much old startup habits – growth at all costs, scale fast – still shape thinking. "I thought success meant getting as big as possible, as fast as possible. That meant doing outbound, even if it felt inauthentic." But that mindset just added pressure. Realizing there were other ways to grow – slower, more intentional – was a relief. Now they've stopped outbound entirely. Focused instead on aligned clients who find them naturally. Robin connects it to a MrBeast quote. "If I'm not ashamed of the video I put out last week, I'm not growing fast enough." He says he doesn't love the "shame" part but relates to the evolution mindset – Looking back at work from six months ago and thinking, I'd do that differently now. Growth as a visible, measurable journey. Robin shifts to storytelling frameworks: Mentions Kevan and Shannon's analogies about storytelling and asks about "the quarter analogy." Kevan explains the "quarter" story: A professor holds up two quarters: "Sell me the one on the right." No one can – until someone says, "I'll dip it in Marilyn Monroe's purse." That coin now has emotional and cultural value. Marketing can be the same – alchemy that turns something ordinary into something meaningful. Robin builds on that: You can tell stories about a coin's history – "Lincoln touched it," etc. But Kevan's version is different: adding new meaning in the present. "How do you imbue something with value now that makes it matter later?" Shannon's take: It's about values and belonging. "Every story implicitly says: believe this." That belief also says: we don't believe that – defining who's in your tribe. Humans crave that – community, validation, connection. That belonging is intangible but real. "Try selling that to a CFO who just wants ROI. Impossible — but it's real." Kevan adds: Values are one piece – authenticity is another. Some brands already have a genuine story; others want to create one. "We get asked to dip AI companies into Marilyn Monroe's purse," he jokes. The real work is uncovering what's true or helping brands rediscover it. The challenge: telling that story consistently and believably. Robin mentions Shannon's storytelling framework of three parts – Purpose → Story frameworks → Touch points. Shannon breaks it down: Clients usually come in with half-baked "mission" or "vision" statements. She uses Ogilvy's "Big Ideal" model: Combine a cultural tension (what's happening in the world) with your brand's best self. Then fill in the blank: "We believe the world would be a better place if…" That single sentence surfaces a company's "why us" and "why now." It's dramaturgy, really — same question as in theater: "Why this play now?" "Why us?" Bonfire's own version (in progress): "We believe the world would be a better place if people and brands had more room to explore their creativity." Kevan adds: it's evolving, like them. Robin relates it back to his own story: After selling Robin's Café, he started Zander Media to tell human stories. He wanted to document real connections — "the barista-customer relationships, the neighborhood changing." That became his north star: storytelling as a tool for change and human connection. "I don't care about video," he says. "I care about storytelling, helping people become more of who they want to be." Kevan closes the loop: A good purpose statement is expansive. It can hold video, podcasts, even a publishing house. "Maybe tomorrow it's something else. That's the beauty — it allows room to grow." Against the Broetry (49:01) Kevan reflects on transparency and values at Bonfire He and Robin came from Buffer, a company known for radical transparency — posting salaries, growth numbers, everything. Says that while Bonfire isn't as extreme about it, the spirit is the same. "It just comes naturally to invite people in." Their openness isn't a tactic – it's aligned with their values and mission. They want to create space for people to explore – new ideas, new ways of working, more fulfilling lives. Sharing their journey publicly felt like the obvious, authentic thing to do. "It wasn't even a conversation – just who we are." Shannon jumps in with a critique of business culture online Says there's so much terrible advice about "how to build a business." Compliments Robin for cutting through the noise – being honest through Snafu and his newsletter. "You're trying to be real about what selling feels like and what it says about you." Calls out the "rise and grind" nonsense dominating LinkedIn: "Wake up at 4 a.m., protein shake at 4:10, three-hour workout…" Robin laughs – "I'll take the three-hour workout, but I'll pass on the protein shake." Shannon and Kevan call it "broetry" The overblown, performative business storytelling on social media. "I went on my honeymoon and here's what I learned about B2B sales." Their goal with building in public is the opposite: To admit mistakes. To share pivots and moments of doubt. To remind people that everyone is figuring it out. "But the system rewards the opposite – gatekeeping, pretending, keeping up the facade." Shannon says she has "no patience for it." She traces that belief back to a story from college Producer Paula Wagner once told her class: "Here's the secret: nobody knows anything." That line stuck with her. Gave her permission to question authority. To show up confidently even when others pretend to know more. After years of watching powerful men "fail upward," she realized: "The emperor has no clothes." So she might as well take up space too. Transparency, for her, is a form of connection and courage – "When people raise their eyes from their desks and actually meet each other, that's power." Robin thanks Shannon for the kind words about Snafu. Says their work naturally attracts people who want that kind of realness. Then pivots to a closing question: "If you had one piece of advice for founders – about storytelling or business building – what would it be?" Kevan's advice: "Look beyond what's around you." Inspiration doesn't have to come from your industry. Learn from other fields, other stories, other worlds. It builds curiosity, empathy, and creativity. Robin sums it up: "Get out of your silos." Shannon's advice: "Make the thing you actually want to see." Too many founders copy what's trendy or "smart." Ask instead: What would I genuinely love to consume? Remember your audience is human, like you. And remember, building a business is a privilege. You get to create a small world that reflects your values. You get to hire people, pay them, shape a culture. "That's so cool, and it should make you feel powerful." With that power comes responsibility. "Everyone says it's about making the most money. But what if the goal was to make the coolest world possible, for as many people as possible?" Where to find Kevan and Shannon (57:16) Points listeners to aroundthebonfire.com/experiences. That's where they host their retreats. Next one is April 2026. "We'd love to see you there."   Companies/Organizations Bonfire Buffer Oyster Vox Zander Media Siegel+Gale Interbrand Pentagram Reforge Robin's Café Books / Frameworks / Theories Traction BJ Fogg's behavioral model Ogilvy's "Big Ideal" Purpose → Story Frameworks → Touch Point People Paula Wagner BJ Fogg MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) David Ogilvy Newsletters Snafu Kevan's previous publication  

In This Episode In this episode of Systems Simplified, host Adi Klevit speaks with Michael Devous about transforming fear into a leadership advantage. Michael recounts how his challenging childhood and experience in the performing arts taught him resilience and self-awareness. These lessons later inspired his Four F's Framework, a process that guides leaders to face fear, reframe it, and use it as a tool for growth and connection. Adi and Michael explore how authenticity drives effective leadership systems. Michael explains that many executives struggle because they pursue someone else's definition of success rather than their own. He helps leaders reconnect with their core values so their systems, communication, and relationships reflect genuine intent and trust. The discussion highlights empathy as a cornerstone of implementation. Michael emphasizes that leaders must shoulder responsibility for system outcomes and create environments where teams feel empowered to contribute improvements. Adi connects this to her work on system design, reinforcing that understanding the "why" behind a process ensures lasting success and engagement. Together, they reveal how authentic, empathetic leadership turns systems into vehicles for connection, efficiency, and sustainable impact.  

This week on That Entrepreneur Show, host Vincent A. Lanci sits down with Mark Battiato, founder of The Greatness Institute and The Entrepreneurial Training Academy, to talk about leadership, faith, and the mindset behind true entrepreneurial success. With over 25 years of experience helping businesses improve profitability, ROI, communication, and teamwork, Mark shares timeless lessons that every entrepreneur needs to hear.From analyzing 300+ dental practices to building a thriving organization with 60 employees, Mark's story is filled with insights on what it truly takes to grow, lead, and inspire others.In this empowering episode, Mark dives deep into: 

Alan Gilbert is senior vice president for finance and administration at Brooklyn College, part of the City University of New York system in Brooklyn, New York. In this episode, Gilbert joins our host Melissa Farley to discuss leading through transformative times, building trust-based organizational culture, and adapting higher education to meet evolving student needs.   "Be yourself is the most important thing," Gilbert says. His authentic leadership style has shaped his approach to managing teams and institutional challenges. "If you don't love students and you don't get the energy from the students, you can't be a CBO. It's all about the students."   Join us for a conversation with Gilbert as he talks about navigating the pandemic's challenges, implementing AI responsibly in higher education, and creating a legacy through mentorship and institutional improvement.   Links Check out NACUBO's other podcasts! Career Conversations NACUBO in Brief

In this episode of Alliance Insights talks with Krista Glenn, EVP and Chief Claims Officer at Westfield Specialty, to explore how ethics and trust shape the business of risk. Together, they discuss why honesty, transparency, and accountability are essential to restoring confidence in an often-misunderstood industry. From real-world claims examples to the emerging role of AI in decision-making, Noelle and Krista share practical insights on how insurance professionals can create cultures of integrity—where doing the right thing isn't just policy, it's practice. Focusing exclusively on risk management and insurance professional development, the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance provides a practical advantage at every career stage, positioning our participants and their clients for confidence and success.

Sales isn't about scripts—it's about trust. And according to Milam Miller, "charisma is the conduit to create that trust." In this powerful episode of The Persistent Entrepreneur Podcast, host David Hill sits down with Milam—author of The Charisma Craft and founder of Be Confident & Kind—to explore how charisma, confidence, and kindness fuel authentic leadership and unstoppable sales growth. Episode Summary Milam Miller, often described as "the real-life Ted Lasso," shares how leaders can transform the way they sell and connect by tapping into their humanity. From his career leading multimillion-dollar sports organizations to his mission helping entrepreneurs "be confident and kind," Milam breaks down why vulnerability, authenticity, and charisma are the new sales superpowers. He reveals why competence grows from failure, how warmth builds trust faster than any pitch, and why the future of leadership—especially in the age of AI—requires emotional intelligence more than ever. Whether you're selling products, ideas, or vision, this episode will reshape how you think about influence, leadership, and connection.   What You'll Learn • Why charisma is the ultimate trust-builder in sales • How confidence and kindness drive long-term success • The "ABCs of Rizz" – Authenticity, Boldness, and Curiosity • How to project confidence using the "SHELL" technique • Why vulnerability builds deeper human connection • How AI is changing communication—and why charisma still wins

The 10 Minute Personal Brand Kickstart (FREE): https://the505podcast.courses/personalbrandkickstartWhat's up Rock Nation! Today we're joined by Dan Churchill - professional chef, author, and entrepreneur whose mission is to change the world through food. He's built a brand that goes far beyond social media by combining storytelling, discipline, and business acumen.In this episode, Dan breaks down how to turn a viral moment into a long-term brand that actually lasts. We talk about finding your North Star, building momentum, and why creators need to start thinking like business owners, not influencers. Dan also shares how he's leveraged partnerships with brands like Apple and BPN, the mindset behind turning one-off deals into long-term relationships, and how he uses content as a vehicle for his purpose, not the product itself.If you want to learn how to build a brand that stands the test of time, make smarter business moves, and create content that connects deeper than just 60 seconds on TikTok, this episode is for you.Check out Dan here:https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@danchurchillcooks⁩  https://www.instagram.com/dan_churchill/SUSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER: https://the505podcast.ac-page.com/rock-reportJoin our Discord! https://discord.gg/xgEAzkqAvsKostas' Lightroom Presetshttps://www.kostasgarcia.com/store-1/p/kglightroompresetsgreeceCOP THE BFIGGY "ESSENTIALS" SFX PACK HERE: https://courses.the505podcast.com/BFIGGYSFXPACKTimestamps: 0:00 – Intro1:12 – Falling in Love with Consistency over Virality3:24 – Defining Discipline as a Creator5:49 – Finding Your North Star and Staying Consistent9:04 – How Dan Defines His North Star in Content11:47 – Personal Brand Kickstart12:11 – Building Momentum After a Win16:59 – The Power of Alma and Momentum on TikTok23:13 – Biggest Mistakes Creators Make with Brand Deals27:26 – Tall Poppy Syndrome & Moving to America31:41 – Balancing Self-Promotion & Authenticity33:09 – Being Aspirational vs Relatable36:00 – Dan's Daily Nutrition & Training Routine38:15 – High Rocks Training & Full-Day of Eating40:15 – Cooking vs Eating Out & Staying Disciplined42:41 – Marathon Stories & Gut Health Fails45:22 – Meal Prep Sunday & The Power of Preparation47:26 – Investing Back Into Your Content Production50:14 – Building Trust & Community Through YouTube53:27 – Lessons from Executive Tables & Advisory Roles55:47 – Turning One-Off Deals into Long-Term Partnerships59:32 – Biggest Mistakes in Early Brand Partnerships1:00:09 – When to Say No to a Brand Deal1:05:21 – Equity Deals and Choosing the Right Brands1:09:45 – Redefining Success on Social Media1:13:12 – Leveraging MasterChef without Being Defined by It1:15:52 – Behind the Scenes of Reality TV & Contracts1:16:57 – Navigating Post-Show Opportunities1:20:21 – Lessons from Nick Bare & BPN Athletics1:22:17 – How Dan Approaches Partnerships with Friends1:25:44 – Building Businesses with Friends the Right Way1:27:17 – Final Advice for Creators Building a Brand1:29:03 – Post Pod DebriefIf you liked this episode please send it to a friend and take a screenshot for your story! And as always, we'd love to hear from you guys on what you'd like to hear us talk about or potential guests we should have on. DM US ON IG: (Our DM's are always open!) Bfiggy: https://www.instagram.com/bfiggy/ Kostas: https://www.instagram.com/kostasg95/ TikTok:Bfiggy: https://www.tiktok.com/bfiggy/ Kostas: https://www.tiktok.com/kostasgarcia/

What can slicing a watermelon teach us about design? Turns out… quite a lot. This week, I chat with Vitaly Friedman, founder of Smashing Magazine, to explore curiosity, inefficiency, and why the best designers obsess over process, not perfection.What if your next design breakthrough came not from a book or a course, but from learning to slice a watermelon?Vitaly Friedman has spent decades shaping how designers think about the web. But in this conversation, we go beyond pixels and patterns to talk about something much more profound: how curiosity itself becomes a design tool. From choosing the perfect watermelon to mastering the art of ironing, Vitaly reveals how everyday obsessions can teach us how to think, learn, and design better.We explore how designers can reclaim joy and curiosity in their work, especially in environments where efficiency and productivity often come at the expense of creativity. Vitaly's take? It's not about finding the perfect way to do something—it's about exploring many ways and discovering meaning in the process.From grilled watermelons to enterprise UX, we connect the dots between experimentation, self-learning, and the messy human side of design.If you've ever felt stuck chasing “best practices” or trying to find the “right” answer, this episode will remind you that sometimes, the most valuable thing you can do is play.Topics:• 03:39 – The Watermelon Metaphor• 05:37 – Choosing the Perfect Watermelon• 09:19 – Cutting Techniques and Presentation• 13:34 – Grilling Watermelon and Culinary Creativity• 14:28 – Learning and Self-Education• 15:13 – The Journey of Exploration• 18:28 – Imposter Syndrome and Asking for Help• 22:00 – Humanizing Executives and Stakeholders• 22:48 – The Importance of Curiosity• 25:34 – Ironing and Finding Zen• 30:01 – The Role of Enjoyment in Learning• 31:35 – Procrastination and Productivity• 33:46 – Procrastination and Focus• 34:48 – Memorable Conference Experience• 37:08 – Finding Joy in Enterprise UX Design• 38:50 – Challenges in Enterprise Projects• 41:35 – Building Trust and Team Culture• 50:50 – Balancing Exploration and DeliveryHelpful Links:• Connect with Vitaly on LinkedIn• Smashing Magazine• Design Patterns For AI Interfaces—Thanks for listening! We hope you dug today's episode. If you liked what you heard, be sure to like and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! And if you really enjoyed today's episode, why don't you leave a five-star review? Or tell some friends! It will help us out a ton.If you haven't already, sign up for our email list. We won't spam you. Pinky swear.• ⁠Get a FREE audiobook AND support the show⁠• ⁠Support the show on Patreon⁠• ⁠Check out show transcripts⁠• ⁠Check out our website⁠• ⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠• ⁠Subscribe on Spotify⁠• ⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠• ⁠Subscribe on Stitcher

In this episode of The Coaching 101 Podcast, hosts Daniel Chamberlain and Kenny Simpson discuss the significance of keeping a coaching staff consistent as the football season draws to an end. They cover the benefits of staff continuity, such as consistency in coaching methods, the ability to delegate roles effectively, and fostering a supportive community among staff and their families. The hosts also explore reasons why coaches might leave a program, including opportunities for growth, financial reasons, or dissatisfaction with leadership. Additionally, they offer advice on how to handle the departure of a key coach by promoting from within and hiring the best possible replacements. The episode concludes with shout-outs to sponsors eSports and Winning Edge Performance Analytics, and information on upcoming coaching clinics and new resources available for football coaches.00:00 Introduction to the Coaching 101 Podcast00:31 Season Wrap-Up and Playoff Discussions02:50 Challenges with Private Schools in Playoffs04:30 Quote of the Week and Coaching Philosophy05:41 Fundraising and Performance Analytics06:31 Upcoming Clinics and Events11:31 Benefits of Keeping a Coaching Staff Together23:29 Building Trust and System Growth24:21 Reasons Coaches Leave a Staff25:44 Challenges of Coaching and Family Dynamics28:58 Leadership Styles and Staff Dynamics34:07 Handling the Departure of a Key Coach42:34 Advice for Aspiring Head Coaches45:24 Closing Remarks and Sponsor MessagesDaniel Chamberlain: @CoachChamboOK ChamberlainFootballConsulting@gmail.com chamberlainfootballconsulting.com Kenny Simpson: @FBCoachSimpson fbcoachsimpson@gmail.com FBCoachSimpson.com

This week, I sat down with Sydney Chestler, Director of CX at Fresh Clean Threads, to talk about what it really takes to build trust in customer experience, not just close tickets.We get into what it means to lead CX at two wildly different brands, from helping a 25-year-old skincare fan find her first serum to supporting a 45-year-old dad buying tees for vacation. Sydney shares how she's built a career around understanding what customers actually care about and how to design experiences that feel human, honest, and clear.We cover the shift from reactive support to proactive CX, the importance of tracking “silent wins” like low ticket-to-order ratios, and why transparency should be your brand's default setting. Sydney breaks down why the best metric isn't how many tickets your team closes, it's how many you prevent by setting the right expectations.We also talk about leadership. Sydney opens up about how mentors shaped her career and how she now pays it forward by building teams that feel heard, supported, and empowered. Her approach is rooted in empathy and connection, and it shows up in everything she does, from team culture to how she thinks about the customer journey.If you care about building trust, leading with transparency, and empowering your CX teams to do their best work, this episode's for you.Listen now for insights on leadership, trust, and how to turn every touchpoint into a relationship, not just a transaction.

In this episode of the Loan Officer Team Training Podcast, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with a respected voice in our industry. Geoff Zimpfer, founder of the Mortgage Marketing Institute, and a true leader in helping loan officers and real estate professionals grow through education, connection, and smart marketing.Geoff brings a wealth of experience and heart to this conversation. We dive into how education builds trust and long-term relationships between Loan Officers and Realtors, the evolving role of AI in marketing, and how mindset truly shapes success, especially when challenges arise.He also shares practical tips on creating engaging realtor classes, overcoming overthinking, and staying adaptable in a constantly changing industry. Whether you're a Loan Officer, Team Leader, or just someone passionate about growth, you'll walk away from this episode inspired and full of actionable ideas.Geoff's insights remind us that continuous learning, genuine relationships, and a positive outlook are the keys to thriving in this business.-----------------------------------------------------Follow Geoff:Instagram: @geoffzimpferLinktree: https://linktr.ee/geoffzimpferConnect with me:My Instagram: @itsirenedufordMy LinkedIn: Irene DufordMy Email: irene@loanteamtraining.comGet Loan Team Training for YOUR team: go.loanteamtraining.com

Many leaders sound inauthentic, robotic or fake.It's true: As a leader, it's hard to sound authentic – to be real, relatable, and trusted. Some messages may come across as too corporate, others as too casual. The result is the same: there's a gap between what you want to say and what your people hear. To close that gap, I'm joined by David Shelley, CEO of Hachette Book Group, one of the biggest names in global publishing, with more than 220 million books sold annually.He's raw, real, and incredibly believable – and he shows us what authentic leadership communication sounds like at scale.Get your 50 Presentation Hacks here: https://eoipsocommunications.com/newsletter/00:00 Introduction & Authentic Leadership00:32 Open Office & Company Culture01:39 Industry Changes & Inclusivity02:27 Feedback & Growth Mindset07:54 Diversity & Changing the Story10:27 Business Growth & Pillars of Success12:14 Understanding Consumers14:50 Building Trust & Communication Channels19:23 Transparency vs. Confidentiality22:34 The Future of Publishing26:03 Advice for Aspiring Authors28:49 Leadership, Communication, and Final Advice38:35 Closing Remarks

In this powerful episode of Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations, Tobi sits down with leadership advisor and author Jennifer Jensen, founder of Authentic Leader and author of Developing Authentic Leaders. Together, they explore what it truly means to lead from the inside out — with courage, humility, and purpose.Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from growing up on a pig farm to guiding executives and emerging leaders through transformational growth. Drawing from faith, resilience, and decades of experience in corporate environments, she offers timeless wisdom on self-awareness, vulnerability, and influence without authority.Whether you're leading a team, an organisation, or your own life, this conversation invites you to reflect on who you are becoming — and how authenticity can transform the way you lead.Listen and learn:What separates authentic leaders from title-holdersHow resilience and faith fuel effective leadershipPractical steps to grow as a confident, humble, and self-aware leaderWhy vulnerability is key to trust and collaborationHow to reconnect with your purpose and lead with integrityConnect with Jennifer Jensen:

How can AI actually increase donor trust rather than erode it? In this conversation, Bennett Weiner (President & CEO, BBB Wise Giving Alliance) speaks with Jeremy Kirshbaum (Founder, Handshake) and Ezra Vázquez-D'Amico (Director of Digital Partnerships & Strategy, BBB Wise Giving Alliance) about AskGive—Give.org's AI Powered Donor Advisor that helps people make wise, trust-centered giving decisions using Give.org's vetted resources.  To draw out broader lessons on AI for the charitable sector, we cover why AskGive was built, how brand-safe AI is different from a generic chatbot, and what's next (structured charity data for cause-based discovery) while keeping donors—not algorithms in the decision seat. Key takeaways - Trust by design: AskGive only draws from Give.org's vetted content (charity reports, standards, advice), aligning AI answers with BBB Charity Standards and avoiding unverified sources. - Brand-safe AI is not the same as a generic chatbot: Tone, accuracy, and “no ranking charities” guardrails were co-designed with staff (from subject experts to frontline donor support) to reflect Give.org's culture. - Help donors act, don't decide for them: The tool surfaces facts, standards results, and advice—then puts the final choice back in the donor's hands. - Cause-based discovery for new donors: Younger/values-driven givers can start with “I want to support animal welfare” and move into credible options without already knowing a charity's name. - The Path From 70% to 100%: Spinning up a chatbot is easy; getting to on-brand, brand-safe, reliable, repeatable guidance takes custom work, evaluation checklists, and ongoing monitoring. - What's next for AskGive: Structured data queries (e.g., “Show me five BBB Accredited environmental charities in my state”) to give donors more relevant, self-directed ways to explore. Why this matters for nonprofit professionals and people who care about social good  - Practical AI path: Start small with mission-critical content, define tone/guardrails, and set evaluation criteria early. - Trust signals win: Transparent sourcing and standards-aligned answers reduce friction for donors and strengthen credibility. - Human-centered by default: Keep people in the loop—let AI inform, not decide. Try AskGive: https://give.org/askgive

In this episode of the Medical Sales Podcast, Samuel talks with Dan Docherty from BrainTrust about how neuroscience is transforming the way medical sales professionals build trust and communicate with impact. Drawing from his 25-year career in pharma, Dan explains how traditional training focuses too much on product and not enough on human connection. He introduces the concept of NeuroSelling®, showing how value-based storytelling and empathy drive real influence in conversations with healthcare providers. This episode reveals how the best reps in 2025 use emotional intelligence, authentic connection, and purposeful communication to create lasting trust and deliver meaningful results.   Connect with Dan Docherty: LinkedIn Connect with Me: LinkedIn Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here's How »

It's been proven that showing customers what AI can do is the key to earning their trust. In this episode, Ruth O'Brien, Senior Director of AI Support at Intercom, talks with Matt Leggett, CX AI & Digital Director at The Access Group, about how support teams can help customers overcome hesitation around AI. They explore the pivotal role simulation, transparency, and education play in turning skeptics into believers and driving AI adoption, and why conversation-first support unlocks faster, more human customer experiences in an AI-first world.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/18YaX3IjtIE?si=JVml2GamdzaM0OV9NewsletterSign up for The Ticket on LinkedIn: A newsletter bursting with insights and advice for support leaders who are navigating the shift to AI-first CS. https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-ticket-7158151857616355328/Learn more about Pioneer: pioneer.fin.aiExplore Fin: https://www.fin.aiRead customer success stories: https://www.intercom.com/customersProduct FAQs: https://www.intercom.com/helpSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You're the parent, or stepparent, who wants less conflict and more connection. But a child's resistance, sarcasm, isolation, or hurtful words, such as: “you're not my dad,” can derail plans and result in hurtful interactions. We've been there.In part 2 of this mini-series, you'll discover how to respond well in tough moments of pushback by using John Gottman's 5 steps of Emotion Coaching. You'll hear us role-play around real-life pushback when a child is competing for a parent's love, making accusations and threats, and behaving oppositionally toward a stepparent.We'll offer a better way to manage those moments with words that help kids feel seen, heard, and understood.  We'll also show you the best approach for addressing poor behavior and setting boundaries. The plan is simple: notice the emotion, treat it as an opportunity, listen and validate, help label feelings, then set limits while exploring solutions. Practice this, and you'll be surprised at how you can lower the tension, build relational safety, and strengthen your connection with a struggling child. When pushback hits, it is possible to move away from reacting in ways that don't help and instead, create an atmosphere of mutual trust, respect,  and real connection in your home.You'll Discover:The 5 Emotion Coaching steps from John Gottman (with wording you can steal) and why each step matters. How to decode what's going on underneath pushback and respond in a way that helps your child move through pain, loss, anger, sadness, and confusion. When and how to set behavioral boundaries so that kids are more open to receiving and responding well. A simple script for stepparents to defuse “You're not my dad/mom” moments while building mutual respect and understanding. When and how to engage in problem-solving with your child and foster real buy-in, confidence, and trust.Resources from this Episode:Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by Dr. John GottmanEpisode 222. Step-by-Step Guide: Facing Painful Pushback Without Making Things Worse [Part 1]Episode 194.  Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Dr. Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 195.  Connecting with Kim's HARD Child - Facing the Challenges of Parental AlienationEpisode 210.  Is Your Child Pulling Away?  Here's How to Respond with Wisdom and LoveEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 92.  At a loss and feeling defeated because the kids stubbornly refuse to blend?Episode 132. How do loss and grief impact blended family integration?Episode 189. Bringing Hope to the Realities of Grief:  A Path to Understanding and Healing [with Krista St-Germain]Ready for some extra support?   Schedule your free coaching call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares his insights on practice acquisition and why patience and trust are key to long-term success in dentistry.

Soad Tabrizil joins Something For Everybody this week. Soad is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. In this conversation, we explore the complexities of mental health and illness, the importance of resilience in youth, and the impact of societal changes on therapy. We discuss the need for a clear distinction between mental health and mental illness, the role of parenting in fostering resilience, and the challenges posed by gender affirming care. Soad emphasizes the importance of reality in therapy and the need for community support, while I reflect on the significance of agency and choice in navigating life's challenges.  - See discounts for all the products I use and recommend: https://everybodyspod.com/deals/ - Shop For Everybody  Use code SFE10 for 10% OFF

Sometimes the hardest part isn't getting started. It's believing you'll actually follow through this time.  BOOK A CALL WITH PERRY: http://talktoperry.com TEXT ME: (208) 400-5095 JOIN MY FREE COMMUNITY: http://upsidedownfit.com The Legacy Continues with Syona and Tony Horton: https://freedom2b.automaticceo.com/ RESOURCES Best Probiotic for Gut Health: https://bit.ly/probyo Best Focus & Memory Product: https://bit.ly/dryvefocus Daily Success Habits (Free Download): morningsuccesshabits.com Best Home Workouts – Power Nation: https://sharesyona.co/?url=perrytinsley WOW! You made it all the way down here. I'm seriously impressed! Most people stop scrolling way earlier. You officially rock, my friend.

What does it really take to scale a business to seven figures using only SEO, without spending a dime on ads? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, Vinay Koshy sits down with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO, to explore the realities behind sustainable, conversion-focused content strategies that actually work. Is SEO just digital wizardry, or is it all about trust, patience, and playing the long game? Steven Schneider shares his journey from managing 40 blogs to running a high-performing agency, emphasizing the importance of building credibility in a world where promises of overnight SEO results have fostered widespread skepticism. Discover why Trio SEO insists on “boring” best practices, how high-intent content can transform business outcomes, and why being able to say “no” to the wrong clients is crucial. Curious about the impact of AI on content creation, ranking strategies, or the overlooked power of podcasts in B2B? This episode is packed with insider insights and actionable approaches, plus honest advice for anyone frustrated with SEO's reputation for unpredictability. Join us, and rethink what it takes to win predictable, scalable results through search. Some topics we explore in this episode include: Building Trust in the SEO Industry – Overcoming skepticism and client concerns from past agency experiences.Delegation and Operational Systems – The importance of systemizing and delegating to scale a business.High-Intent Content for Conversions – Focusing on bottom-of-funnel content that turns readers into buyers.Role of AI and Human Writers – Using AI as a tool, but prioritizing conversational, human-written content.Keyword Research and Funnel Alignment – A structured process for discovering and prioritizing keywords by intent.Adapting to Search Engine & AI Trends – How changes in Google and AI influence SEO strategies.Content Beyond Traffic: Conversation & Education – Using content to educate and fuel industry discussions.Adhering to Client Brand Guidelines – Customizing content to fit each client's brand and goals.Ensuring Quality and Consistency – Processes and team structure to maintain high standards.Focusing on Long-Term SEO Results – Emphasizing patience and realistic expectations for sustainable growth.And much, much more...

Jennifer Stanford Vogt is an established professional in the human services sector, with a career deeply influenced by serendipity and her belief in divine intervention. A graduate of Keuka College in 2008, Jennifer began her journey as a job readiness and GED instructor, eventually transitioning into the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Her roles have included direct support professional (DSP) and staff development trainer, and her insights are further informed by her personal experience as a parent of a child with multiple diagnoses, including autism and epilepsy. Currently, Jennifer serves as the Associate Director of Education and Training at eVero Corporation, leading teams in creating impactful learning programs and fostering innovation in the sector.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of DSP Talk, host Asheley Blaise welcomes Jennifer Stanford Vogt, whose path through the realms of human service and parenthood brings an invaluable perspective on the interplay between direct support professionals (DSPs) and families. Jennifer shares how her dual experiences as both a parent and a DSP have shaped her understanding of these roles as a partnership built on empathy and effective communication. Her narrative underscores the mutual effort needed for individuals with disabilities to flourish, spotlighting how these interactions can foster personal growth, skill development, and emotional well-being.Jennifer dismantles common misconceptions about DSPs, emphasizing the skills, critical thinking, and emotional resilience required in their role. Her insights pave the way for families and DSPs to foster mutual respect and build healthy partnerships. By acknowledging the emotions and needs of both sides, Jennifer suggests concrete ways to strengthen these relationships, like regular check-ins, active listening, and transparent communication. Overall, the episode provides a compelling view into the complexities of caregiving, offering a call to action for both families and professionals to work cohesively towards enriching the lives of those they support.Key Takeaways:Beyond 'Babysitting': The role of DSPs is often misunderstood; it involves advocacy, problem-solving, and much more than supervision.Building Trust and Respect: Regular communication and small gestures of acknowledgment help to build trust between families and DSPs.The Human Aspect: Acknowledging the emotional journey of both DSPs and families leads to better support structures and cooperation.Partnership over Isolation: Success relies on treating the family-DSP relationship as a collaborative effort instead of two opposing sides.Notable Quotes:"It truly takes a real partnership, some empathy, and communication to make it happen.""DSPs are constantly problem-solving, teaching, advocating, and adapting in the moment.""At the end of the day, we're all just really here for the same reason: to help the person that we're both engaged with grow, develop, and thrive.""Assume always that there are good intentions and really listen to each other."Resources:eVero CorporationFor a deeper dive into this enlightening discussion, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful content on DSP Talk, where we continue to explore stories and strategies that enhance the lives of those working in human services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of SaaS Fuel, host Jeff Mains sits down with Rachel J. Edwards, founder of INSPIRI and creator of the Strategic Personality Blueprint (SPB). Rachel shares her journey from coaching to building a personality assessment tool that provides a holistic, multi-dimensional view of human behavior, bridging the gaps between popular frameworks like Disc, Enneagram, Big Five, and incorporating proprietary strengths and values modules. She discusses the challenges of bringing innovation to market as a non-technical founder, balancing product vision with scaling constraints, and the profound impact of customized personality insights for hiring, team harmony, and organizational success.Rachel's insights illuminate how understanding individual and team dynamics with evolving, experience-based assessments can turbo-charge leadership, hiring, and even applications beyond business—spanning education and criminal justice. Authenticity, privacy, and values-driven decision-making are at the heart of her product, pushing organizations to move beyond static labels to real, actionable understanding.Key Takeaways00:00 Holistic Coaching System Needed06:16 Dynamic Evolving Personal Assessment09:26 Beyond Labels to True Understanding12:08 "Team Analysis for Effective Leadership"15:40 "Validating Market Fit First"19:51 Streamlining for Scalability and Efficiency23:32 Building Trust in Employee Assessments26:41 Optimizing Team Dynamics Strategically29:36 Balanced Approach to Personality Insights32:18 Personalized Rehabilitation for Better Outcomes35:54 Tailoring Investor Communication Strategies40:28 "AI's Impact on Jobs"Tweetable QuotesViral Topic: One Assessment to Rule Them All: "And came up with one single assessment where it will capture five different assessments in one, though you're only taking one assessment, so like you said, you're not going to have to take the disc or Enneagram or any of the other assessments. It's all in one." — Rachel J. Edwards Quote: "how does somebody's motivations or their values impact the behavior that they see? And really being able to understand that point allows a coach or a leader or an organization to better lead and guide their people." — Rachel J. Edwards Viral Topic: The Truth Behind Personality Labels: "I like to say is we bridge the gaps between the labels because life and growth happen behind the labels." — Rachel J. Edwards Proving Market Fit Before Building: "So instead of going, like you said, to get go and building something from tech and then saying we have this, we're almost kind of flipping it and showing that there's a market fit, people want this and we're using it now." — Rachel J. Edwards Quote: "I think any one of those single things misses so much because there's just so much that people have to offer. People are a lot of depth in who they are and how they perform." — Jeff Mains Avoiding Startup Pitfalls: "some founders will make the mistake of we want to automate everything, get that out there, and it's all technology. And so they end up having to redo a bunch of stuff because they take all of the learning happens after they've already built it and like, oh, we should have done that differently." — Jeff MainsSaaS Leadership LessonsBridge the Gaps Between Labels: Avoid oversimplifying people by single assessments; embrace layered approaches for deeper understanding.Champion Privacy to Build Trust: Protect individual assessment results—privacy encourages honesty and leads to more actionable insights.Start Manual, Learn Deep: Begin with hands-on delivery to...

Why do we start strong… and still end up stuck? (Watch on YouTube) To answer that, my guest today, Kwame Terra, did something no one else ever has. He walked over 2 million steps in 30 days — 66,000 steps a day. That's more than a marathon's distance daily, with no rest days. At the end of it, Kwame ended up setting a new world record. But this isn't a story about crushing a record. It's a conversation about what it takes to follow through — when no one's watching, when you hit a wall, and when your old self is begging you to quit. In this episode, we unpack: Why motivation rarely lasts — and what to rely on instead The hardest part of walking 66K steps a day (it's not what you think) How pain, rhythm, and emotional triggers show up in the body What Kwame learned about trusting himself again through movement Why “finishing something” can be more healing than we realize More than any record, this challenge was about reclaiming a sense of identity, integrity, and forward momentum — through walking. More from Kwame Terra:

LEARN MORE at http://teach4theheart.com/362 What if the key to a thriving school culture isn't control, but servant leadership? In this episode, we explore how the servant leadership model provides the relational and even spiritual groundwork needed to create high-capacity schools where both staff and students can flourish. Listen in as Linda sits down with Matthew Flippen from Gracelyn University to unpack how servant leadership reshapes the way we think about influence, trust, and community in education. 00:00 Introduction to Servant Leadership in Education 01:04 Building Trust and Relationships 03:52 Transformational Leadership Stories 11:10 Creating a Shared Vision 16:01 Empowering Teachers and Future Leaders 18:27 Gracelyn University and Teacher Training Resources/Links Mentioned: Win With Your Talent Pipeline: Ensuring All Children Have Incredible Teachers : https://www.amazon.com/Win-Your-Talent-Pipeline-Incredible-ebook/dp/B0FS9KFGPQ Transformational Educators Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TransformationalEducators Gracelyn University: https://www.Gracelyn.edu

How do the most visible leaders stay trusted and relevant in a noisy world? Danielle Sabrina has spent her career helping them do exactly that. As founder of Society22 PR, one of Inc. 5000's fastest-growing firms, Danielle has guided CEOs, athletes, and celebrities in building credibility that scales. Named Female Entrepreneur of the Year and one of CIO's Top 20 Female Entrepreneurs to Follow, she joins me to unpack how smart brands turn trust into momentum. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why credibility is the new currency for brands and leaders How founder-led storytelling drives growth and trust What makes a story truly “media ready” in today's crowded landscape How to balance authenticity with strategy when managing your public persona Lessons on scaling a creative business without losing your core Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:44) Credibility as the New Currency (03:25) Why Founder Stories Matter (05:03) PR Beyond Press Releases (07:57) Balancing Authenticity and Strategy (09:36) Finding the Right Story to Tell (17:16) Turning Vulnerability into Strength (21:25) Scaling with Integrity (27:06) Brand That Made Danielle Smile About Danielle Sabrina Danielle Sabrina is an award-winning publicist and the founder of Society22 PR, one of Inc. 5000's fastest-growing companies and ranked among the Top 10 National PR Firms. With more than 25 years of experience, she's helped CEOs, athletes, and celebrities build credibility that drives growth. Named Female Entrepreneur of the Year and one of CIO's Top 20 Female Entrepreneurs to Follow, Danielle's insights on trust, storytelling, and media strategy have made her a leading voice in how brands earn attention and stay relevant. What Brand Has Made Danielle Smile Recently? Danielle shared that Skims has been making her smile lately — especially their creative brand collaborations with partners like The North Face. She admires how the brand's constant stream of collabs keeps them culturally relevant and seemingly everywhere, even if she'd love to see them slow down just enough for us all to appreciate each one. Resources & Links Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn and Instagram. Check out the Society22 PR website. Listen & Support the Show Watch or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon/Audible, TuneIn, and iHeart. Rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to help others find the show. Share this episode — email a friend or colleague this episode. Sign up for my free Story Strategies newsletter for branding and storytelling tips. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I'll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nate Davenport is the Founder & CEO of Nebu Clothing, an outdoor apparel brand built for performance, versatility, and heart. Before launching Nebu, Nate led a finance team at Zappos and served as an infantry squad leader in the U.S. Marines, where he learned the value of gear that works under real pressure.Nebu was born from frustration, products that changed for the sake of change, colors that blended into landscapes but not the spirit of adventure, and fits that never quite fit. Nate set out to fix that by building apparel that feels great, performs hard, and actually looks good.In this episode, Nate shares how he rebuilt his Shopify site from scratch in 36 hours after a crash, how he found the right manufacturing partners through hands-on trial and error, and how he defines success by community and craftsmanship, not scale alone.Whether you're an ecommerce founder navigating supply chain complexity or a brand builder chasing quality over quantity, Nate's story is a masterclass in learning fast, leading with purpose, and finding fulfillment beyond revenue.In This Conversation We Discuss:[00:26] Intro[01:09] Building products that solve real use problems[03:16] Turning frustration into a product opportunity[05:46] Building intuition through contrast and visits[10:25] Selling through friends before running paid ads[14:53] Stay updated with new episodes[15:03] Building profitability through paid learning[15:43] Turning events and emails into ad leverage[17:14] Sponsors: Electric Eye, Heatmap & Freight Right[21:50] Balancing goodwill with measurable profit[22:28] Moving fulfillment from warehouse to garage[27:01] Choosing product ideas by improving what exists[32:54] Redefining success beyond scale and revenue[36:42] Connecting community through personal supportResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeEveryday active apparel nebuclothing.com/Follow Nate Davenport linkedin.com/in/nathan-davenport-327483186Schedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectClear, real-time data built for ecommerce optimization heatmap.com/honestTurn your domestic business into an international business freightright.com/honestIf you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

(0:00) Intro(1:25) About the podcast sponsor: The American College of Governance Counsel(2:12) Start of interview(3:01) Karen's origin story(3:44) Early Career and Transition to Technology(5:40) The Dot-Com Era and her time at Brobeck and later at Orrick.(8:50) Her transition to Prosper Marketplace (Chris Larsen's company) (9:40) Her time at Box, Inc. and Apple *Reference to E179 with Jack Lazar(13:14) Her journey to Venture Capital.(14:16) Joining B Capital (in 2019) and the firm's investment focus(16:16) The nature of B Capital's partnership with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) (19:32) Governance in Early Stage Companies(20:42) Her role as a board partner of her firm. *Reference to VCBA program(23:22) Building Trust in Governance "It starts on day one. And that trust is just, is literally earned through every conversation, every interaction, and certainly every board meeting."(25:41) Founder-Friendly Terms and Market Changes(28:43) The Importance of Governance During Crisis(31:52) CEO Succession and Leadership Transition(37:45) Advisory Boards vs. Fiduciary Boards(40:06) On board observers(44:08) Board Committees and Their Evolution(48:10) The Debate: Stay Private or Go Public(51:37) Books that have greatly influenced her life:Annie Duke's Thinking in Bets (2018)Ray Dalio's Principles (2017)Shoe Dog by Phil Night (2016)(52:00) Her mentors: David Geyer (Brobeck), Aaron Levie (Box), Howard Morgan (B Capital)(52:48) Quotes that she thinks of often or lives her life by: "never cut what you can untie". And the other is "never confuse motion with progress."(53:03) An unusual habit or an absurd thing that she loves. (53:25) The people she most admires(55:50) Diversity on Boards in Venture CapitalKaren Page is a General Partner and Board Partner at B Capital. As a Board Partner, she collaborates with portfolio company leadership, B Capital's investment team and the firm's network of advisors to provide best-in-class strategic guidance You can follow Evan on social media at:X: @evanepsteinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/epsteinevan/ Substack: https://evanepstein.substack.com/__To support this podcast you can join as a subscriber of the Boardroom Governance Newsletter at https://evanepstein.substack.com/__Music/Soundtrack (found via Free Music Archive): Seeing The Future by Dexter Britain is licensed under a Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License

Send us a text[Podcast Sponsor]Kind Cotton: Soft, sustainable apparel, where every purchase provides a book to a child.What separates schools that grow from those that stall? One word: trust.In this episode, Becca unpacks research showing that strong trust can double a school's chance of improving student learning. She breaks down the four types of trust:  integrity, intent, capabilities, and results and shares how leaders can pinpoint where trust is missing and rebuild it with purpose.Listen in for practical, research-backed strategies to strengthen relationships, improve coaching impact, and lead with confidence.Check out The Resistance Remedy!Let's Stay Connected!Website | Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin | Facebook | Contact Us