Podcast appearances and mentions of Chris Merritt

Join us as Pete sits down with Don Hahn and Chris Merritt to talk about their upcoming book "The Happiest Place on Earth." Celebrate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland with an illustrated history of Walt's first theme park, and a look back at the theme park that started it all!It's the ultimate coffee table book for Disney collectors and armchair travelers alike, brimming with more than 750 images, previously unpublished documents, and concept drawings.Preorder your copy here!The Happiest Place on Earth

Bryan University Head Coach Chris Merritt joins Larry Blustein as they talk about Bryant University and what they do as a new D1 football school

Welcome to the Return of the... Mousetalgia potpourri! This week, Jeff and guest co-host Julia Layne welcome the first week of May with some Star Wars talk, including a review of Disneyland's Season of the Force (29:00) and the new show "Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga." We also talk about a new exhibit coming to the Walt Disney Family Museum (15:35) called "Mary Blair: Mid-Century Magic," and discuss some of the latest things we've been watching (shout out to Bluey!) Jeff also gives a brief Knott's Berry Farm trip report (35:35), and welcomes Chris Merritt back to the show to discuss his new book "Knott's Bear-y Tales: The Complete History of the Whimsical Attraction" (49:55). We talk about the history of the ride, the story of '70s Knott's, and how Rolly Crump developed the story of the beloved experience. Contact us at comments@mousetalgia.com

It's Thursday, April 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark South African police rescue kidnapped missionary Praise God! Police in South Africa rescued a U.S. missionary from his kidnappers on Monday. Pastor Josh Sullivan, age 34, was preaching at Fellowship Baptist Church in South Africa's Eastern Cape province last Thursday. That's when four masked gunmen broke into the church, dragged him out of the pulpit, and took him hostage in front of his wife and children. They demanded a ransom. Providentially, police were able to locate him and engaged in a shootout with the kidnappers, killing three of them. Sullivan was found inside the same car that the kidnappers were in, but he was "miraculously unharmed.” Before Sullivan had been rescued WBIR, Channel 10 in Knoxville, Tennessee interviewed Sullivan's father-in-law, David Witt. He knew that Sullivan would rely on Christ in the midst of his captivity. WITT: “There's no way I can imagine going through this without Jesus, Christ.” Remarkably, he was convinced that his son-in-law would share the Good News with his kidnappers. WITT: “Giving them the Gospel. The greatest thing that could ever happen is for one of those kidnappers to get saved.” The missionary's father-in-law explained that all Christians should emulate the heart of Christ on the cross. WITT: “He said, ‘Forgive them, for they know not what they do.' And we have to forgive the people that kidnapped our son-in-law because they don't know either.” Please keep Pastor Josh Sullivan, his family, and church in your prayers. Psalm 146:7 says it is God “who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free.” U.K. Supreme Court affirms two biological sexes Yesterday, the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom ruled that a person's sex is based on biology.  The case began in 2018 when the Scottish government allowed the definition of “woman” to include men pretending to be women. Women's rights groups challenged the decision, going all the way to the U.K. Supreme Court. The high court's ruling keeps men, pretending to be women, out of spaces intended for women. This includes women-only changing rooms, homeless shelters, swimming areas, and medical or counseling services.   Australian judge protects boy from being “transitioned” In Australia, a family court judge has ruled to protect a child from transgender drugs. Judge Andrew Strum recently awarded custody of a 12-year-old boy to his father. The father opposed attempts by the mother to put the boy on puberty blockers. She had been grooming him to pretend to be a girl since age 6. The judge noted, “I do not accept that the child, at this age . . . can properly understand the implications and potential risks of puberty blockers.” The ruling is the first of its kind against transgenderism in the country.  Appearing on Sky News, Chris Merritt, the Legal Affairs Contributor for The Australian, was grateful that the judge protected this 12-year-old boy from puberty blockers. MERRITT: “Had the father believed the misdiagnosis his former wife had received that their son had suffered from gender dysphoria, there would be no role for the federal circuit and Family Court. There's a precedent that makes it clear that if both parents agree about a course of gender blocking treatment, it will go ahead without any further involvement of the court. But in this particular case, because the father objected, it found its way into court.” The legal analyst was especially appalled by the dramatic lack of evidence presented by the medical experts which would warrant attempting to feminize this boy through puberty blockers and estrogen supplements. MERRITT: “When the medical experts were subjected to a bit of cross examination and their evidence was tested quite rigorously, over a long period, huge flaws emerged. Some obvious causes of the boy's gender confusion were not pursued. If we've got a misdiagnosis in this case, based on what the judge said was evidence infected with ideology rather than facts, there could be other cases like this.” Arkansas protects kids from being placed with homosexual couples Arkansas Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the Keep Kids First Act into law last Thursday. The law protects Christian adoption agencies from having to place children in homes that go against their religious beliefs. In essence, they can bypass homes featuring homosexual couples. The measures also protect such agencies from being targeted by the government for their beliefs.  Greg Chafuen with Alliance Defending Freedom celebrated the new law. He said, “Arkansas has taken the critical step to pass . . . the Keep Kids First Act, which prioritizes the well-being of kids by prohibiting state and local government officials from discriminating against adoption and foster care providers and parents simply because of their religious beliefs and moral convictions.” 71st Sanctuary City for the Unborn Last Tuesday, Mullin, Texas became the 71st city in the nation to declare itself a Sanctuary City for the Unborn. The Mullin City Council passed the ordinance unanimously. The measure prohibits elective abortions in the city limits as well as mailing abortion drugs into the city.  Pastor Randy Bradley of Mullin First Baptist Church commented, “I was moved by the willingness of our city council to take such a bold stand for the lives of the unborn. I am overjoyed at being part of a community which passed this ordinance unanimously.” 27% of American adults say God does not exist And finally, Dr. George Barna released his latest study on the worldview of Americans. The study found that 27 percent of U.S. adults claim the God of the Bible does not exist. However, over a third of those who dismiss God's existence said they would be completely open to being persuaded otherwise by someone they know and trust. Dr. Barna noted, “Having an established relationship in place with people facing a crisis goes a long way toward helping them to know God and place their trust in Him.” 1 Peter 3:15 says, “In your hearts, honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, April 17th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Labor’s $10 billion dollar housing lie exposed, and the rise of influencers in this election campaign. Plus, Chris Merritt on the impact of a landmark ruling on children's gender medicine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Merritt, former CRO of Cloudflare, shares how the company scaled from single-digit millions to $1 billion in ARR and built a foundation for long-term, sustainable growth. Chris unpacks the strategies behind scaling go-to-market teams, aligning product and sales for maximum impact, and creating strong customer relationships based on trust and value delivery. He also discusses the challenges of building a world-class organization, maintaining momentum through different growth phases, and navigating the shifting dynamics of the SaaS landscape, especially with the emergence of AI and its impact on go-to-market strategies.  What You'll Learn in This Episode Scaling to $1 Billion ARR: Why scaling requires a balance between small, fast-growing customers and large enterprise deals How to build repeatable processes for growth while maintaining flexibility for experimentation Building Trust with Customers: Why trust is the foundation of successful customer relationships and large contracts How to align product capabilities with customer needs while being transparent about limitations Aligning Product and Go-To-Market Teams: The importance of creating a tight feedback loop between product and sales teams How joint customer engagements help ensure consistent messaging and better product development Leadership Through Growth Phases: How to move from founder-led sales to a scalable go-to-market organization The challenges of hiring and maintaining company culture during rapid growth Adapting to Changing Markets: The role of AI in reshaping go-to-market strategies and customer expectations Why the current business landscape is moving faster than ever and what that means for startups ALL ABOUT UNICORN BAKERY: https://zez.am/unicornbakery  Where to find Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmerritt99/  Website: https://www.cloudflare.com/de-de/  Join our Founder Tactics Newsletter: 2x die Woche bekommst du die Taktiken der besten Gründer der Welt direkt ins Postfach: https://www.tactics.unicornbakery.de/  Chapters: (00:00:00) How to scale beyond 1 Billion ARR (00:04:39) Value & reasons to buy Cloudflare (00:08:23) The balance between building the best product vs. building a worldclass sales organization (00:15:18) Stages and phases in startups that help navigating through challenges (00:24:55) Chris' tipps for founder-led-sales (00:32:48) Advices to find support for go-to-market (00:43:12) How to ensure that product and go-to-market are not drifting apart while growing (00:52:34) How to bring the team together (00:57:23) Quality expectations at Cloudflare  (01:02:55) Building a sustainable company (01:09:03) Chris' best learnings on pricing (01:15:47) How to evaluate whether it is worth undercutting the competitor just to win the customer (01:22:06) Chris' thoughts on the momentum of the AI space

Chris Merritt, former CRO of Cloudflare, shares how the company scaled from single-digit millions to $1 billion in ARR and built a foundation for long-term, sustainable growth. Chris unpacks the strategies behind scaling go-to-market teams, aligning product and sales for maximum impact, and creating strong customer relationships based on trust and value delivery. He also discusses the challenges of building a world-class organization, maintaining momentum through different growth phases, and navigating the shifting dynamics of the SaaS landscape, especially with the emergence of AI and its impact on go-to-market strategies.  What You'll Learn in This Episode Scaling to $1 Billion ARR: Why scaling requires a balance between small, fast-growing customers and large enterprise deals How to build repeatable processes for growth while maintaining flexibility for experimentation Building Trust with Customers: Why trust is the foundation of successful customer relationships and large contracts How to align product capabilities with customer needs while being transparent about limitations Aligning Product and Go-To-Market Teams: The importance of creating a tight feedback loop between product and sales teams How joint customer engagements help ensure consistent messaging and better product development Leadership Through Growth Phases: How to move from founder-led sales to a scalable go-to-market organization The challenges of hiring and maintaining company culture during rapid growth Adapting to Changing Markets: The role of AI in reshaping go-to-market strategies and customer expectations Why the current business landscape is moving faster than ever and what that means for startups ALL ABOUT UNICORN BAKERY: https://zez.am/unicornbakery  Where to find Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmerritt99/  Website: https://www.cloudflare.com/de-de/  Join our Founder Tactics Newsletter: 2x die Woche bekommst du die Taktiken der besten Gründer der Welt direkt ins Postfach: https://www.tactics.unicornbakery.de/  Chapters: (00:00:00) How to scale beyond 1 Billion ARR (00:04:39) Value & reasons to buy Cloudflare (00:08:23) The balance between building the best product vs. building a worldclass sales organization (00:15:18) Stages and phases in startups that help navigating through challenges (00:24:55) Chris' tipps for founder-led-sales (00:32:48) Advices to find support for go-to-market (00:43:12) How to ensure that product and go-to-market are not drifting apart while growing (00:52:34) How to bring the team together (00:57:23) Quality expectations at Cloudflare  (01:02:55) Building a sustainable company (01:09:03) Chris' best learnings on pricing (01:15:47) How to evaluate whether it is worth undercutting the competitor just to win the customer (01:22:06) Chris' thoughts on the momentum of the AI space

Ep. 738: Don Hahn and Chris Merritt on Disneyland at 70, authors and historians on Snow White '25 This week, Imagineer Chris Merritt and Disney producer and director Don Hahn join Mousetalgia to talk about "The Happiest Place on Earth: The Incredible Story of Walt Disney's Disneyland," their upcoming book scheduled to be released to celebrate Disneyland's 70th birthday (8:55). They discuss Disneyland's origins, its place in popular culture, some of the people you might not know who were important to the park's beginnings, and the things that will set this book apart from your other shelf of other Disneyland books. Then, Jeff will share some public social media postings about Snow White (2025) which outline some of the historical controversies which have been brought into the spotlight about the creation of the animated classic (1937) (53:50). Contact us at comments@mousetalgia.com

The PM fails to secure an exemption from Donald Trump’s tariffs, the ball is in Putin’s court after Ukraine accepts a ceasefire deal. Plus, Chris Merritt on the landmark high court decision on Indigenous land rights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Train with Beyond Strength online: https://www.bspnova.com/hybrid-performance/Or, if you're local to northern Virginia, come join us in-person: https://www.bspnova.comIn this conversation, Todd Bumgardner and Chris Merritt explore various themes related to community, aging, fitness, and personal development. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences visiting retirement communities, discuss the importance of maintaining social connections as one ages, and reflect on the changing perspectives that come with age. The discussion also delves into training techniques, particularly focusing on kettlebell carries and rucking, and the upcoming Kettlebell Mile event. They emphasize the significance of running for improving rucking performance and share practical tips for effective training. The conversation concludes with light-hearted banter about personal preferences in shoes and bags (it's not what it sounds like ha).00:00 - Technical Difficulties and Introduction01:15 - Community and Connection in Retirement03:42 - The Importance of Social Connections06:16 - Reflections on Aging and Life Perspectives10:21 - Shifting Perspectives on Age12:01 - Experimenting with Rowing Techniques17:04 - Kettlebell Mile Event Introduction21:54 - Kettlebell Mile Event Details and History28:02 - Food Truck Adventures and Potluck Plans30:06 - Kettlebell Mile Insights31:53 - Rucking Techniques and Strategies36:09 - Weight Management in Rucking39:54 - Training for Heavy Loads40:54 - Choosing the Right Gear for Rucking43:35 - The Importance of Proper Weight Distribution49:05 - Running vs. Rucking: The Efficiency Debate54:01 - Building Aerobic Capacity through Running56:59 - Progressing from Walking to Running

In this episode of The Beyond Strength Show, Todd Bumgardner and Chris Merritt explore the concept of self-care, particularly in the context of fitness and personal growth. They discuss the importance of defining one's values and purpose, the need for long-term thinking in achieving fitness goals, and the common misconceptions surrounding self-care. The dialogue emphasizes that true self-care involves making decisions that may not feel good in the moment but are beneficial in the long run. They also highlight the significance of consistency, the role of motivation, and the necessity of understanding one's values to navigate challenges effectively.The Self-Care Lie Article Series:Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4Chapters00:00 - The Journey of Self-Care and Fitness00:59 - Getting back to training after the flu06:35 - The Self-Care Lie08:15 - How will you feel in 10?09:02 - How the self-care article turned into a 4-part series23:54 - Defining Values and Long-Term Goals28:49 - The Importance of Showing Up29:06 - Values and Purpose in Decision Making30:26 - Choosing the Version of Yourself You Want to Be32:13 - Taking Action: The Small Steps Matter33:24 - Understanding Trade-offs and Sacrifices34:43 - Self-Care and Long-term Goals36:22 - The Role of Self-Knowledge in Fitness39:14 - Creating a Supportive Environment41:09 - Building Habits Beyond Motivation43:04 - Navigating Short-term vs Long-term Goals44:34 - The Value of Rest and Recovery46:46 - Emerging Values and Goals49:31 - The Miracle Question: Defining Success52:51 - Integrating Values into Daily Decisions

Train with Beyond Strength: https://www.bspnova.com/hybrid-performance/ In this conversation, Chris Merritt and Todd Bumgardner delve into philosophical questions about reality and truth, exploring the implications of living in a simulation versus facing the harsh realities of life. They discuss the importance of purpose in modern life, the challenges of finding meaning, and the role of voluntary hardships in building resilience. The dialogue transitions into practical applications in fitness preparation for HYROX, focusing on program design, training methodologies, and the significance of high-intensity continuous training. The conversation emphasizes the need for personal growth and the impact of coaching on individual development. 00:00 Exploring Reality and Illusion 02:43 The Nature of Truth and Meaning 05:31 The Search for Purpose in Modern Life 08:50 Voluntary Hardships and Resilience 11:41 The Impact of Kindness and Service 16:45 Program Design and Coaching Insights 28:07 Neural Charge Training Explained 30:06 Strength Training Volume and Intensity 32:35 Training Frequency and Adaptation 33:38 Revising Conditioning and Strength Workouts 35:25 Weekly Training Structure and Goals 39:08 HYROX Preparation and Aerobic Development 42:20 Dynamic Control and Breathing Techniques 51:45 Volume Management and Training Adaptations

Join host Carol Pankow in this thought-provoking episode of Manager Minute as she sits down with VR fiscal powerhouses Katie Marchesano, Chris Merritt, Allison Flanagan, and Sarah Clardy. Together, they unpack the pressing fiscal issues shaping the vocational rehabilitation (VR) landscape, including: ·  Navigating fiscal forecasting challenges · Addressing technology gaps · Strengthening collaboration between program and fiscal teams The conversation highlights the vital role of policies, training, and institutional knowledge in sustaining VR programs while anticipating future shifts, such as technological advancements, fiscal constraints, and potential WIOA reauthorization. Don't miss this episode, packed with actionable insights and expert reflections to keep VR programs thriving!   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   {Music} Katie: I'm really excited for that tool to be shared, and I think it's going to be a really helpful tool for the agencies.   Carol: This job takes constant attention to detail in what is happening. It is always going to be work.   Chris: More people are going to be reaching out asking for fiscal forecasting and understanding how to look at this program in the future.   Allison: One of the things that pops in my mind that might happen over the next three years is reauthorization of WIOA.   Sarah: I think we're going to see some new resources, hopefully in the technology world develop, that will assist our agencies so that their focus can remain on the customers where it belongs.   Intro Voice: Manager Minute brought to you by the VRTAC for Quality Management, Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host Carol Pankow.   Carol: Well, welcome to the manager minute. Joining me in the studio today are my colleagues Katie Marchesano, Chris Merritt, Allison Flanagan and Sarah Clardy. So this might be a little bit of calamity for our listeners, but we're going to do it. So how y'all doing today?   Sarah: Great   Chris: Great.   Allison: Good.   Katie: Wonderful.   Carol: Awesome to hear it. Well, we have had quite a journey on the QM for the past four years. The fiscal focus was a new aspect of the grant, and we are so grateful to then Commissioner Mark Schultz for realizing that TA in this area was an essential element to the work. And since we're in this final year of the grant, we wanted to have a chance to visit together, share our insights with the listeners into the whole fiscal picture across the VR program, and discuss our perceptions and perspectives. So buckle up, folks, and we're going to dig in. So I want to start with how you each found your way to VR. And I'm going to start with Chris to talk about your journey into VR.   Chris: Well thanks, Carol. Mine's a little bit different than most people. I did not start in VR. I have a very different background. All fiscal for the most part. But I came to work at a fiscal state unit and learned about VR there. Loved it, loved it, loved it. And then was kind of asked to be part of this Ta team and couldn't say no because it's just an incredible program and it's a little complicated. So being able to help the states understand it better is what brought me to this team.   Carol: Well, not you, and you're being modest now. Tell them about like a little bit more of your background because you have an interesting educational background and all of that.   Chris: Yeah, I do. So I'm an environmental engineer by trade. Worked in that field for a while. Learned that sampling sludge was not a cool thing to be doing. So went to work for a small business that was just starting on Department of Defense World. Loved all the fiscal part of that. Went back to school and got my MBA and have been doing fiscal stuff ever since. So yeah, it's a long road that brought me here, but I'm happy I took it.   Carol: Yeah, we're glad you're here. How about you, Miss Allison?   Allison: Well, it's kind of hard to believe that I have over 30 years in this VR journey, and it actually started out in the field as a VR technician, and I just fell in love with the mission and purpose of VR. So I quickly changed my direction to be a VR counselor, and then that evolved to other promotions and positions throughout the year, where I ended up being director of both Kentucky Blind Agency and then moved to Florida as the General Agency Director. And when the VR TKM opportunity came about, I was ready for a change, especially after being a director through the pandemic and through the implementation of WIOA. I was looking forward to just a new opportunity, new learning areas, so this has been a great jump for me. I've enjoyed it very much.   Carol: Why don't you tell them too about your other gig with NRLI a little bit. We'll make a plug there.   Allison: Yeah. So part of the VRTAC-QM is the National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute through San Diego State University. I have the honor of continuing Fred McFarland's legacy, who began this program about 25 years ago. And it is a program that is building the future leaders in the vocational rehabilitation field. And it's been a joy to see these leaders be promoted throughout their careers. Being stepping up, having an interest at that national level, the issues that are facing VR. So it is definitely a part of my job with QM that I hold near and dear to my heart.   Carol: Yeah, it's good stuff, I love it NRLI of our favorite things to participate in when we get to do training. So Katie, over to you next.   Katie: Well, my journey with VR started when my brother was receiving VR services, and he actually is who inspired me to go and get my bachelor's degree in psychology and work in social services. That led me to Department of Workforce Services, where I spent 13 years in various roles and capacities, which ultimately led me back to VR.   Carol: Awesome sauce. And last but not least, Sarah Clardy.   Sarah: So I started out about 24 years ago out of college. I was working in banking full time and going to school full time, and had an opportunity to come on with a state and Missouri vocational rehabilitation, had an opening for an assistant director of accounting and procurement. They had some systems and processes that were a little out of whack and needed some help with reorganizing pretty much the whole accounting structure. So I came over at that time and started in with Missouri, and then spent 20 years there and got to spend half of that time in the field directly with our field staff and counselors and really take this program to heart, and then had an opportunity four years ago to join the VRTAC-QM. I had said for a long time we needed technical assistance in the fiscal realm for years and years. I was thrilled that Mark Schultz saw the vision and made it happen.   Carol: Good stuff. Well, now we're going to enter the danger zone because I have some questions for you all. Not exactly sure how this is going to go, but we are going to do our best. So y'all jump in when you want. So what has been your biggest realization or aha moment since you started with the QM. And Allison, I'm going to have you kick us off and then other folks can jump in.   Allison: Honestly, Carol, there's been a lot of those aha moments for me over the last, you know, almost three years with the Technical Assistance Center since my experience in VR started in the field and I was a counselor, kind of the program side is where my comfort level is or my knowledge and experience. So when I joined the fiscal team there, definitely there was a lot of those aha moments, mainly a lot of the things that I did not know or did not realize even as a director when I came over. So one of those aha's is the director. Even though I received these beautiful monthly budget reports for my fiscal staff, even though I had a leadership team that we reviewed budgets with, understanding the fiscal requirements in and out, the uniform grant guidance and all the regulations. And, EDGAR, all of that, I think, is critical for any director or their leadership team to have knowledge of. And that was definitely one of my aha moments. And one of those things I go back, wow, if I could go back and be a director, I would be a lot smarter after being on the technical assistance side. And like I said, there's been a lot of those aha moments. I could share tons of them, but a couple other ones that jump out is just that critical need for that program side of the House and the fiscal side of the House, to always be communicating and always making sure they're checking with each other. On whether it's a new implementation, whether it's expenses, contracts, doesn't matter. There needs to be that collaboration happening at that level. And then probably the technology challenges is another one of those constant aha moments in the year that we're in and how reliant we are on technology. I am still amazed that there is not technology out there that will do what VR needs it to do, right off the shelf.   Carol: Amen, sister. You said it all. No, but I'm sure there's people that want to say some more.   Chris: I found it interesting when I came over that not every single, not a single state has it right. I thought that there would be more that are fully knowledgeable and are running with it and doing all the great things they are doing, the great things. They just don't have 100% right.   Carol: You are making me laugh with this because I'm just going to say I have to jump in on that. Sarah and I right away, in the beginning, anytime we had met with RSA we learned something new, we're like, uh, I gotta call back to Minnesota, tell them, because we realized, like, hey, we thought we were sort of doing it right, but we all realized things. We went, uh, yeah, we had a little slight misstep on that.   Katie: I would agree with that. Like, we came from a state that was in an intensive agreement. And, you know, I was like, man, we really got it wrong. But then, you know, it's a huge learning curve and there's a lot of people that are putting in their best effort, and they're still just a few things that aren't quite right.   Chris: Absolutely.   Katie: Another realization that I had was we have this table of contents for a grant management manual that we send out to agencies. And when I received it in Wyoming, I was intimidated by all the things that needed to be included. But my aha moment was when you break that down into individual items and you really look at it, it's things that are already in place, the policies and procedures that you're already working on. It's just finding a way to get that on paper and put it into some sort of policy and procedure and internal control. So realizing that states have the capacity to do that, just figuring out how was an aha moment for me.   Sarah: You know, when I came in, I was thinking back to 2017 and RSA came out with guidance on, I'm going to say it, Period of Performance. And it dominated our whole agency for a good nine months, trying to understand the guidance, looking at systems. We had to do a whole overhaul with the way we looked at obligations, just we spent a massive amount of time and effort to right size our systems, internal controls and all of that because prior to performance sets the beat for all of financial within a VR program. So coming into the QM, I really assumed that more agencies knew of Period of Performance and had gone through at least similar steps, or at least had internal conversations. And what I found was completely the opposite. Somehow a lot of folks missed the memo and that work hadn't been done. And of course, we've been running Fred Flintstone style, trying to help agencies get up to snuff. So that's the piece. I think that's been the most interesting. I think for me.   Carol: I think along that same vein for me was really that realization states are more different than I thought because I figured we all had the same information. We all kind of operated sort of the same. You might have your own internal systems, but I remember, Sarah, you and I talking that first year just going like, oh my gosh, everybody is organized so completely differently. They approach their work so completely differently. There isn't just one size fits all. Like, hey, you should do it this way. And like, everybody can do that. Uh uh, it is like having an IPE for how the fiscal is managed. Individualized we need to give very individualized TA. So what do you guys view as the number one challenge facing our programs nationwide? And Sarah, I'm going to have you start us with that.   Sarah: Okay? I'm going to say it I think Allison said it earlier. We are lacking in the technology space. I think a couple of things we have, the pendulum has swung to the other direction and before it was spend, spend, spend, a lot of agencies made adjustments so that they were increasing their spending. The large carryover balances weren't so large. Now my concern is how are we looking at our finances to see if we can still sustain that. And in order to get accurate projections and for leadership teams to have the conversations about where they stand financially, we have to have technology systems in place that are reliable, are tracking period of performance, can provide those fiscal calculations in terms of where we stand on all of the different requirements, so that we have a constant pulse on where do we stand as an agency. And I liken it to being in private industry and a CEO knowing at all times how much does it cost to make the widget? How many widgets are we making and what amount of time? All of those kinds of things. And I feel like in that space right now, we have agencies that are trying to figure that out, and we have some that are in a very delicate position, and it can cause a lot of catastrophe and crisis if that's not solidified. So really, it goes back to having reliable technology that will take care of all of that. And that includes our CMS, our Case Management Systems space. A lot of our vendors are struggling in that Period of Performance area, and we're not there yet. We have a lot more work to do.   Carol: Well, it's like a $4 billion industry, you know, and I feel like we're still using an abacus or something in some cases for tracking the money. It is the most insane thing I have ever seen.   Allison: And, you know, related to that technology challenge, though, is knowing that, that challenge is there, knowing that the technology is not correct. I think what adds to the complexity of that is the fiscal staff or the just the staff within the VR agency. They lack the fiscal knowledge enough to know if their system is working correctly or not, or know how to go in and make the adaptations needed to assist them. And that's a challenge within itself.   Chris: And I will piggyback right on that, because the thing I think that we've struggled with is we have lost so much institutional knowledge that people don't stay in jobs like they used to. And so if these policies and procedures are not written down, you get new people coming in, they don't know what they don't know. And if the technology is not working right, they don't know that that's not something that they can handle. So it's a lack of that long time knowledge that used to be in this program.   Katie: Yeah, Chris, that is exactly where I was going as well, is the loss of staff and institutional knowledge is huge, and it really highlights the importance of getting policies and procedures in place and not waiting till that person has their foot out the door and is ready to head out to make sure that you're getting that in writing. You know, succession planning and really building up success in the team.   Carol: I think for me, one of the things I see, because I love that whole organizational structure and non-delegable responsibilities, I love that area. I think one of the biggest challenges facing the program is the whole shift in how things are organized between if you're in a designated state unit within a designated state agency, and that centralization we have seen of all the fiscal functions along with IT and HR and all of it, but I feel like VR has lost control. And so as these services are centralized, and not that they can't be, but that they get centralized to a point that the VR program has lost complete input control direction. I mean, you've got directors being told you can't spend anything over $5. It has to go through 40 layers. You can't hire anybody. Staff cannot travel to go see customers like all of that. If we can't fix this structure of how things are put into play in each of these states, I really see kind of the demise of the program. As we see things get buried, the program gets buried down within these big agencies. The lack of control ends up leading to problems with them and being able to carry out the mission. And it's really hard to get a handle on that. And I know Congress has given, you know, this leeway so that states can organize like they want. But boy, the way they're organized right now, it's pretty tough.   Allison: It's a double edged sword when you think about it, because you're probably like me Carol, as former directors, we wanted more money going into the consumer services. We wanted it going to support our customers. We wanted to find ways to reduce any kind of administrative type expenses so that that money can go there when the centralized functions were really being pushed at the state levels. In my mind at first, I will say this, at first I saw, yes, this is a benefit because we're going to have these shared services, we're going to be able to spend more of our funds on our customers. And I still somewhat agree with that approach because it is a cost savings. But what has to happen, though, is that balance, what you talked about, the balance where VR still has control over the decisions or they are included in those decisions and the restrictions that have been put in place has to be lifted. But I do see the benefits of those shared services as long as the structure gets set up right.   Carol: Right. And that's been few and far between.   Allison: That needs a national model.   Carol: It does. And that's been a problem. I mean, if there's anything anyone can work on, little congressional assistance in that or whatever, you know, getting some of that rewritten, how that looks.   Sarah: Well, and I came from an agency that was able to retain an entire unit of 13-ish folks when all of those consolidations were occurring because within our Department of Education, our commissioner understood the complexities of our award and knew that if all of those positions rolled up to a department level, they weren't going to be able to support the program and were able to coordinate with our state leadership. And it served the program very, very well. So I think we have a little bit to be desired still in that space to get agencies the support that they need 100%.   Carol: So what has been your favorite thing to work on or accomplishment in your role? And Katie, I'm going to kick that to you to start us off.   Katie: Well, I've really enjoyed my role here with the QM. There's a lot of things that I enjoy, but the task that I've enjoyed the most is really having the ability to dig into the new uniform grant guidance that went into effect October 1st of 2020. For one of the things that I did while doing that was I took the old uniform grant guidance and the new ones and did a side by side where all of the things that were taken out were redlined and all of the things that were added were highlighted, and I'm really excited for that tool to be shared with the agencies right now. That's with RSA to get the stamp of approval, but I've used that tool already to help update all of our things on the website and all the tools that we're sharing with everyone, and I think it's going to be a really helpful tool for the agencies.   Carol: I love that tool, Katie, so much because even when we were down doing to last week and some of the just the nuance pieces that came out, when you're reading it and you go, okay, that language did change. Like there is a slightly nuanced variance to this that I hadn't completely grasped until you see it in the red and the yellow, and it all highlighted up. I mean, it was pretty nice.   Katie: Yeah, they did a lot of plain language changes, which is really evident when you look at the side by side.   Chris: I'll jump in here and tell you what my favorite thing is. And it's when we were working with a state intensively and, you know, we've been working with them for a long time, and you get to know them really well and you understand their environment and how things work, and they come to you and say something really profound, like, I was watching this training the other day and they got this wrong, and they got this wrong and they got this wrong. It is like a proud parent moment. When you go, they understand what the program is supposed to be doing, and they understand when other people not necessarily are getting it wrong, but mostly they're able to recognize what's not absolutely correct. And it just makes you feel like, oh, we have come so far.   Carol: It's like fly, little bird, you're flying.   Chris: Yes.   Allison: That's probably one of my favorite parts too, Chris, is the state work that we've done and how you get to know these state people. There's so many amazing VR staff across the country, and their hearts are all in the right place, and they want to do good. That's what I've enjoyed is getting to know these people better, broadening my network as well because I learn from them. But just being that resource I do like, I'm one of those weird people that likes digging into the laws and regs and finding where is that gray, vague area that we can interpret a little better. So part of the TA work, you know, really digging into some of the laws and some regulatory guidance I've enjoyed as well.   Carol: I have a story I love to share. I was having a breakdown probably a year ago, Sarah's laughing at me, I had a breakdown. You know, you're providing TA to state you're so ingrained with them, especially when they have a corrective action plan, you feel like you're part of them. I always say we, you know, when we're talking because I feel like I'm part of their team and we've been working on a particular piece of it, and nothing that we sent in was anything RSA wanted. All I knew was that this was not what they wanted, but we couldn't exactly figure out what they wanted. And it was driving me crazy. And I'd called Sarah and I said, I think I have to quit being a TA provider because I suck at this. I'm not able to help them. I haven't been able to figure this out. I am done, and I went to bed that night. I actually was on site with another state and I woke up at two in the morning and I do my best thinking as I'm sleeping. It's so weird. I've done it my whole career. I wake up in the middle of the night and have an idea. I woke up at two in the morning. I'm like, oh, I know what they're talking about. And I got up and I typed, I typed for like three hours and then got up for the day and got ready for the other state. But exactly what was needed was that, I mean, when we ended up meeting with the state and then they met with RSA, and that was the thing. It was the thing that was needed to get accomplished. And I felt super proud that we could kind of like, figure it out. It took a while. I almost quit, but, we got there in the end.   Sarah: You know, being in the final year of the grant, everybody's asking the question, what comes next? And of course we don't know what comes next. But I think my favorite part is looking back and building the relationships. So kind of touching on what all of you all have said. Relationships are important to me. Building the trust we are learning alongside of them just like they are. I always say there's no top of the mountain that any of us are ever going to reach when we've arrived. It's a daily learning process, but the program financially is so complex and trying to take those federal requirements And each of the state's requirements, which we've acknowledged already are all different, and bring that together in the center. And there's never been a resource to help agencies get down in the weeds, look at their systems, look at their processes, and help them navigate through that. And so just having something to offer and having directors send an SOS text at 9:00 at night, or we've talked to directors who have been in tears or excited because something really great has happened, and they want to share the success. It's all of that. Just being able to provide that valuable resource and support them along the way has been very rewarding for me. I know, and you all, but especially I think for the States.   Carol: So if you had a crystal ball, what would you predict regarding the financial state of the VR program over the next three years? And Chris, you get to start us on that lovely prediction.   Chris: Okay. Well, since I don't have a crystal ball, I think Sarah touched on this a little bit earlier. So for several years, the message from RSA and from Congress has been to spend, spend, spend. And so there's been a lot of changes in all the agencies to be able to spend more, to spend quicker, to do everything quicker and faster. And I think the spending is catching up. And I think that it might go too far. Like Sarah mentioned, the pendulum is going the other way, and I don't think the fiscal forecasting is robust enough to be able to predict when it's going to get hard. And since most directors do not come from a fiscal background, most directors come with the VR heart that you know is what a counselor has, paying attention to that. Fiscal forecasting is going to be a critical, critical point. And I know that most states are not doing it right. So that's my prediction. More people are going to be reaching out asking for fiscal forecasting and understanding how to look at this program in the future.   Sarah: And I think to tack on to that, I think we're going to see new technology and new resources emerge that will assist our agencies. Again, like Carol said earlier, some days it feels like we have our big chief tablet out and we're still doing things old school. And I think the only direction to go is up. So I think we're going to see some new resources, hopefully in the technology world develop, that will assist our agencies so that their focus can remain on the customers where it belongs.   Allison: And I would have to say ditto to both of that, especially the fiscal forecasting and the pendulum swinging the other way. And a lot of states considering order selection or going into order selection. But one of the things that pops in my mind that might happen over the next three years is reauthorization of WIOA. I know the discussions are happening with Congress right now, and if that implementation happens, you know, what's it going to look like? Because ten years ago when WIOA was passed, it was a huge impact on VR. And it still is. I mean, we're still challenged with trying to get everything implemented, trying to spend the minimum of our 15% on Pre-ETS. There's just so many things that we're still working on through. So very interested to see where that's going to go.   Carol: And I definitely think like nothing ever stays the same. So we always think like we're going to get to the place and it's just going to be even flow, like it's all going to be cool. We don't really have to pay a lot of attention, and I don't think that's ever going to be the state of the VR program. Like it's going to constantly need people paying attention. Whether the pendulum is one way and we have loads of money or it's the other way and we have no money now, like we have to somehow try to like even this out with the fiscal forecasting and all the things you're doing. But if you think you're going to get to the place where like, oh, I've reached it, Nirvana, it's all great. That's never going to be like this job takes constant attention to detail and what is happening. And so it is always going to be work. It's going to take a lot of effort from a lot of people. And as all the new people keep coming and going, figuring that out for the team so that you can sustain the practices and things that you have that help you to understand what's going on.   Katie: Yeah, I would just agree with everything that everyone already said. One of the big pushes that was brought up at CSAVR, is technology, and I think it is going to be interesting to see what kind of technology is introduced in the next three years that's going to help assist our programs.   Carol: So what is your best piece of advice for our listeners? And I'll let anybody open that one up.   Allison: I'm going to say you need to have a deep bench of leaders who are adverse in the financial requirements, maybe incorporating fiscal training for all staff on an annual basis, whether that's just refreshers or making sure new folks being hired understand all the requirements. But fiscal needs to be part of your ongoing training with staff. It's just critical.   Carol: I'd say, for directors coming in, I know the tendency is to want to be like, I have to know everything. I'm the director, I need to know all things. And even when you don't know the things, you pretend, you know the things. Don't pretend you know the things you don't know. Like you need to be humble and figure it out and learn and be willing to learn. For a lot of folks that are growing up in the VR system, having that sort of physical part of your brain, it may not be completely there. You're like, I went into VR because I didn't want to do math, and now you're in charge of, you know, $300 million in a program. And so you've got to just continue to learn and chip away and figure out how you can gain that really strong understanding, because you cannot just hand that off to some other group and think someone's managing that for you, because the buck really does stop with you in the end. As far as the responsibility over the control and allocation of the VR funds. So please keep learning, as Allison said, and be open and be humble when you don't know things and ask.   Sarah: There's a song by the Beatles called With a Little Help from My Friends. Everybody needs a Little help from time to time. And I know over the years we've worked with most of the agencies, but there are some that we haven't, and I've always assumed they're good. They don't need us. They're fine. It's not always necessarily the case. So acknowledging if I pick up a phone and call a peer or a fellow director, or hopefully the TAC continued to exist beyond this grant cycle. Reaching out and asking for help is okay, and it's encouraged.   Katie: Yeah, mine will be through the lens of policy and procedure. That's where I keep hitting. That's my passion on this QM team. We have a ton of resources available, and if you're struggling, you're looking at that table of contents saying, I can't do this. Reach out, give us a call. We can help you with prompting questions just to get the thought process going. And you can do it. It's going to be okay.   Chris: Ok, my piece of advice is to make connections. And I think everybody has kind of said that in their own way. But make those connections so that you have people you can reach out to and ask questions of whether it's us at the TA center, other states, other fiscal people. You need to be able to ask, how do you do this? What do you think of this idea that I have? How would you handle this? I mean, being able to have that connection and that type of conversation is critical 100%.   Carol: Well, I sure appreciate you all. And while we're still around, all our listeners can still connect with us. And we do have a QM fiscal email address. I will spell out for you. It is QM f I s c a l at v r t a c-qm.org. So qmfiscal@vrtac-qm.org. So please do reach out. We still are around for a little while and we can be your phone a friend. So thanks for joining me today guys I really appreciate it.   Chris: Thank you Carol. This was great.   Allison: Thanks for having Us.   Sarah: Thank you.   Katie: Thanks.   {Music} Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR, one manager at a time, one minute at a time, brought to you by the VR TAC for Quality Management. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening!

In this conversation, Todd Bumgardner and Chris Merritt explore the themes of creativity, action, and the importance of understanding client archetypes in achieving personal and professional goals. They discuss the significance of having stakes in one's pursuits, the balance between purpose and pressure, and the role of accountability in driving action. The conversation also delves into defining values, planning for the future, and utilizing technology for personal growth. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for reflection and adaptation in the journey of self-discovery and goal achievement. Takeaways Creativity requires consistent practice, much like fitness. Understanding client archetypes can enhance coaching effectiveness. Having clear stakes can drive motivation and action. Balance between purpose and pressure is essential for growth. Accountability can help maintain focus and direction. Defining personal values is crucial for finding purpose. Technology can aid in planning and personal development. Reflection allows for adaptation and growth in goals. Embracing challenges can lead to personal growth. Openness to exploration is key to making progress. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Creativity and Action 02:35 Understanding Client Archetypes: What, Why, and How 05:23 The Importance of Action and Accountability 08:27 Finding Balance: Purpose and Pressure 11:16 Defining Values and True Self-Care 14:08 Emergent Growth: The Role of Action in Self-Discovery 24:59 Setting Goals and Overcoming Nerves 28:56 The Importance of Stakes in Life 31:20 Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth 34:21 Planning for the Future with Family 43:42 Utilizing Technology for Effective Planning

Expect intelligent conversations on the big issues as Professor David Flint urges Australians to take back their country. Watch ‘Save the Nation with Professor David Flint' live and on demand on ADH TV, Mondays 9PM AEDT. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Crisafulli is sworn in as Queensland premier following a solid win for the LNP, and the Qantas freebie scandal is just more evidence the PM is out of touch. Plus, legal expert Chris Merritt on the left's latest push to influence our courts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An explosive second day in Moira Deeming's defamation battle, growing questions about how a would-be assassin got so close to Donald Trump. Plus, Chris Merritt discusses the bombshell report on Daniel Andrews' 2013 car crash.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

The FCS College Football Experience (@TCEonSGPN) on the Sports Gambling Podcast Network previews the upcoming Colonial Athletic Association's schedule. Pick Dundee aka (@TheColbyD) & Mike Rose (@GCG_Wins) break down every single team in the CAA and their 2024 college football schedules. Are the Richmond Spiders making a gigantic mistake by leaving the CAA for the Patriot League? Will the Delaware Blue Hens and Ryan Carty run the table in their final year in the CAA? How will the Bryant Bulldogs and Chris Merritt do in their first year in the CAA? Should we expect the transition from Mike Minter to Braxton Harris to go smooth for the Campbell Camels? Are the Towson Tigers and Pete Shinnick a team to watch out for this year in the CAA?Can the Albany Great Danes and Greg Gattuso rebound after losing key pieces off of last years playoff team? Do the Richmond Spiders and Russ Huesman have the easiest schedule in the CAA heading into their final year in the Conference? Will Kevin Callahan have the Monmouth Hawks ahead of schedule? How should the North Carolina A&T Aggies look in the 2nd year of the Vincent Brown era? What should we expect from Stony Brook in year one with Billy Cosh? Should the Villanova Wildcats be a top contender in the CAA this year? Will Sean McDonnell have the New Hampshire Wildcats competing for a CAA Championship? What do we make of the Hampton Pirates coaching situation and their recent move with Trent Boykin becoming the interim head coach? Will Mike London and William & Mary bounce back after a tough season with a lot of close losses? Does it make sense that Missouri State is leaving the Missouri Valley Conference for the FBS? We talk it all and more on this episode of The FCS College Football Experience. JOIN the SGPN community #DegensOnlyExclusive Merch, Contests and Bonus Episodes ONLY on Patreon - https://sg.pn/patreonDiscuss with fellow degens on Discord - https://sg.pn/discordDownload The Free SGPN App - https://sgpn.appCheck out the Sports Gambling Podcast on YouTube - https://sg.pn/YouTubeCheck out our website - http://sportsgamblingpodcast.comSUPPORT us by supporting our partnersNYRA Racing code SGPN25 - $25 FREE BET and $200 Deposit Bonus - https://racing.nyrabets.com/sign-up-bonus/sgpn25?utm_source=sgpn&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign=sgpn_25&utm_content=1080x1080Underdog Fantasy code TCESGPN - 100% Deposit Match up to $100 - https://play.underdogfantasy.com/p-sgpnGametime code SGPN - Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code SGPN for $20 off your first purchase - https://gametime.co/Football Contest Proxy - Use promo code SGP to save $50 at - https://www.footballcontestproxy.com/ADVERTISE with SGPNInterested in advertising? Contact sales@sgpn.io Follow The College Experience & SGPN On Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/TCEonSGPNInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/TCEonSGPNTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@TCEonSGPNYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheCollegeExperienceFollow The Hosts On Social MediaColby Dant - http://www.twitter.com/thecolbydPatty C - https://twitter.com/PattyC831NC Nick - https://twitter.com/NC__NicK

The FCS College Football Experience (@TCEonSGPN) on the Sports Gambling Podcast Network previews the upcoming Colonial Athletic Association's schedule. Pick Dundee aka (@TheColbyD) & Mike Rose (@GCG_Wins) break down every single team in the CAA and their 2024 college football schedules. Are the Richmond Spiders making a gigantic mistake by leaving the CAA for the Patriot League? Will the Delaware Blue Hens and Ryan Carty run the table in their final year in the CAA? How will the Bryant Bulldogs and Chris Merritt do in their first year in the CAA? Should we expect the transition from Mike Minter to Braxton Harris to go smooth for the Campbell Camels? Are the Towson Tigers and Pete Shinnick a team to watch out for this year in the CAA?Can the Albany Great Danes and Greg Gattuso rebound after losing key pieces off of last years playoff team? Do the Richmond Spiders and Russ Huesman have the easiest schedule in the CAA heading into their final year in the Conference? Will Kevin Callahan have the Monmouth Hawks ahead of schedule? How should the North Carolina A&T Aggies look in the 2nd year of the Vincent Brown era? What should we expect from Stony Brook in year one with Billy Cosh? Should the Villanova Wildcats be a top contender in the CAA this year? Will Sean McDonnell have the New Hampshire Wildcats competing for a CAA Championship? What do we make of the Hampton Pirates coaching situation and their recent move with Trent Boykin becoming the interim head coach? Will Mike London and William & Mary bounce back after a tough season with a lot of close losses? Does it make sense that Missouri State is leaving the Missouri Valley Conference for the FBS? We talk it all and more on this episode of The FCS College Football Experience. JOIN the SGPN community #DegensOnlyExclusive Merch, Contests and Bonus Episodes ONLY on Patreon - https://sg.pn/patreonDiscuss with fellow degens on Discord - https://sg.pn/discordDownload The Free SGPN App - https://sgpn.appCheck out the Sports Gambling Podcast on YouTube - https://sg.pn/YouTubeCheck out our website - http://sportsgamblingpodcast.comSUPPORT us by supporting our partnersNYRA Racing code SGPN25 - $25 FREE BET and $200 Deposit Bonus - https://racing.nyrabets.com/sign-up-bonus/sgpn25?utm_source=sgpn&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign=sgpn_25&utm_content=1080x1080Underdog Fantasy code TCESGPN - 100% Deposit Match up to $100 - https://play.underdogfantasy.com/p-sgpnGametime code SGPN - Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code SGPN for $20 off your first purchase - https://gametime.co/Football Contest Proxy - Use promo code SGP to save $50 at - https://www.footballcontestproxy.com/ADVERTISE with SGPNInterested in advertising? Contact sales@sgpn.io Follow The College Experience & SGPN On Social MediaTwitter - https://twitter.com/TCEonSGPNInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/TCEonSGPNTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@TCEonSGPNYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheCollegeExperienceFollow The Hosts On Social MediaColby Dant - http://www.twitter.com/thecolbydPatty C - https://twitter.com/PattyC831NC Nick - https://twitter.com/NC__NicK

Well, if you're a Beyond Strength member, you're already doing it (in one form). But Chris and Todd break it down for you in the newest episode of The Beyond Strength Show. They also lay out example training weeks and talk about how to get back into running. Episode on how to add running to your training: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0fdHwWXMlpHWB11mPDBec8?si=rXO9HxHSRi6RWPfV1qRddA Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Hypocrisy in governments social media stance, cost-of-living still a pain for voters, push for business to pay for union work. Plus, Chris Merritt joins the show to discuss unelected bureaucrats policing the internet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Anthony Albanese ramps up anti-Israel rhetoric, legal expert Chris Merritt joins to discuss the latest revelations from the federal court in the Bruce Lehrmann defamation case. Plus, veteran gay rights campaigner Kerryn Phelps on her new memoir.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Difficult training weeks are a part of the fitness process. You might curse your coach and everyone who's ever loved them while you're in the thick of hard a session, but we need those sessions to push ourselves forward. The rub is that we must be smart about how we approach them. But the good news is with a few tactics and skills, you can nail difficult training weeks and get the full benefit of all that sweat and strain. And all that cursing won't be for nothin'. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

Is there a difference between muscular endurance and strength endurance? Plus: CHRIS'S DEEPEST FEAR TODD'S DISDAIN FOR CONDIMENTS STRENGTH METHODS STRENGTH TRAINING FOR SELECTIONS YOUTH TRAINING AND EARLY SPECIALIZATION IN SPORTS Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

In today's episode, we'll outline how to concurrently train for various disciplines... specific capacities, layering skills, and recovering from it all. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

We all want to see the fruits of our labor, right? Why would we do anything, other than something that's purely pleasurable, if we can't eventually note measurable progress? Well, unless we are seeing measurable results, or we're getting some kind of pleasure, we typically stop doing the thing. So, we need to give ourselves reasons to keep doing the thing. Fitness progress can feel slow because, well, sometimes it is. However, sometimes you're making progress and you don't realize it because you just don't know how to measure it. That's especially true of progress with conditioning, particularly low and slow aerobic conditioning – something that we all need.  In today's episode, we'll outline a handful of ways that you can track your fitness progress to help you stay the course and also deepen your understanding of conditioning progress. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/⁠ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

On this episode of The Beyond Strength Show, Chris and Todd discuss heart rate training zones. The physiological benefits of the different zones, the mental side of things, and dive into practical application with real-world training examples. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/⁠ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at ⁠https://www.bspnova.com/⁠

On this episode of The Beyond Strength Show, Chris and Todd discuss how to set physical goals in 2024, and they share their physical goals with you. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength/ Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at https://www.bspnova.com/

On this episode of The Beyond Strength Show, Chris and Todd look absolutely horrendous and talk through random subjects to close out the year. You'll laugh, you'll have some deep shit to think about, and you'll get a list of our favorite books we each read this year. Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: / itsbeyondstrength Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at www.bspnova.com

On this episode of The Beyond Strength Show, Chris and Todd discuss what they've learned in 2023… and YOU get to walk away with two killer tools to plan your 2024 (among other things, of course). Connect with Beyond Strength on Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsbeyondstrength Local to Northern Virginia: Sign up for your FREE intro at www.bspnova.com

Legal Affairs contributor for The Australian, Chris Merritt, has pushed for equal protection under the law for Jewish Australians, criticising the lack of decisive action from "any government state or Federal". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Writer/Director as he interviews Stage Director Brian Semons-Madore (Leo Paulson in the series) and four cast members (Chris Merritt, Todd Coolidge, Caitlin Conway, and Dawn Colford) from The Acting Out Theatre Company of Lawrence, Massachusetts as they discuss their upcoming September 15, 16, & 17, 2023 production of Two and Two Together, the play on which Putting 2&2 Together is based.Support the showScripts of Two and Two Together and the first two seasons of Putting 2&2 Together can be purchased at Amazon.com. Merchandise available at TeeSpring. Donations can be made at By Me a Coffee. For further information, please visit puttingtwoandtwotogether.com.

Coach Chris Merritt talks Football with Larry Blustein.

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: John Ruddick grew up in Tamworth and then spent two years working on an outback farm. From 1991 to 1995 he studied history at the University of Sydney and then commenced as a staffer for Ross Cameron MP in the early days of the Howard Government. He had been an active member of the NSW Liberal Party and championed democratic reform of that party. In 2018 he published "Make the Liberal Party Great Again" which was a blueprint on how to optimally democratise an Australian political party in the 21st century. In mid-2021 he joined the Liberal Democrats after his disappointment with the Morrison and Berejiklian governments and their over-reaction to COVID-19 and the associated government debt. John has written op-eds for most of Australia's leading newspapers and has appeared frequently on Sky News and occasionally on ABC. John and his wife run a mortgage broking business. GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Chris Merritt is Vice President of the Rule of Law Institute of Australia. GUEST 3 OVERVIEW: Kobie Thatcher has gained a significant following online for outspokenly tweeting about freedom and personal responsibility during COVID, and in more recent times, covering topics like current events, news stories, politics, and taking a stance against the woke ideology that has become prevalent in our society. https://twitter.com/KobieThatcher  

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Chris Merritt is Vice President of the Rule of Law Institute of Australia. GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: John Ruddick grew up in Tamworth and then spent two years working on an outback farm. From 1991 to 1995 he studied history at the University of Sydney and then commenced as a staffer for Ross Cameron MP in the early days of the Howard Government. He had been an active member of the NSW Liberal Party and championed democratic reform of that party. In 2018 he published "Make the Liberal Party Great Again" which was a blueprint on how to optimally democratise an Australian political party in the 21st century. In mid-2021 he joined the Liberal Democrats after his disappointment with the Morrison and Berejiklian governments and their over-reaction to COVID-19 and the associated government debt. John has written op-eds for most of Australia's leading newspapers and has appeared frequently on Sky News and occasionally on ABC. John and his wife run a mortgage broking business. GUEST 3 OVERVIEW: Dave Sabben MG, a Vietnam Veteran, was commander of 12 Platoon during the 1966 iconic Battle of Long Tan. He is author of "Mentions In Despatches”, endorsed by Sir Peter Cosgrove and former Australian War Memorial Director, Brendan Nelson.

Reports reveal Australians are paying about 30% more income tax per person than a decade ago, Labor backbenchers demand change to negative gearing. Plus, Chris Merritt on the Bruce Lehrmann trial.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Merritt, Chief Revenue Officer of Cloudflare joined Cloudflare nearly a decade ago when annual revenue was around $1M with one sales person — and has since been scaling the sales organization and helping grow Cloudflare into the multi-billion dollar business it is today. When building a sales team and business at scale, organizations go through various stages of growth with key milestones along the way—from 1-10 million in revenue, to 50-100 million, to 100 million, and onward. While no two businesses are the same, we'll dive into a few areas that are most likely to change, with Chris sharing some findings along the way to help others effectively scale their organizations.   Full video with Q&A: https://youtu.be/YkmDl59sDkg   Want to join the SaaStr community? We're the

The Bluebloods are live from Big South Media Day in Charlotte, NC. Bryant Head Coach Chris Merritt give his thoughts on the upcoming season for the Bulldogs, the transition from the NEC to the Big South, & which Bryant players that could have a huge season for the Bulldogs. All this and more right here on The Bluebloods!​ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-bluebloods/support

Part 2 of my conversation with Chris Merritt, State Historic Preservation Officer at the State Historic Preservation Office, about the Transcontinental Railroad, Golden Spike National Historical Park, and Chinese railroad workers. Sources: Newspapers.com Utah State Historic Preservation Office: https://history.utah.gov/shpo https://www.facebook.com/UtahSHPO https://www.instagram.com/ut_shpo/?hl=en https://twitter.com/shpoutah Utah's Cultural Site Stewardship Program: https://history.utah.gov/shpo/upan/ucss Rails East to Ogden: Utah's Transcontinental Railroad Story https://issuu.com/utah10/docs/rails_east_to_ogden Golden Spike National Historic Park https://www.nps.gov/gosp/index.htm Transcontinental Railroad Sources: https://www.nps.gov/gosp/index.htm https://spike150.org Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association http://www.goldenspike150.org/about-us Driving Maps: https://www.nps.gov/gosp/planyourvisit/maps.htm https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/uploads/BLMUtahTranscontinentalRailroadMap.pdf Please visit my Patreon for a detailed source list. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/demolishedslpod

A conversation about the Transcontinental Railroad, Golden Spike National Historical Park, and Chinese railroad workers with Chris Merritt, State Historic Preservation Officer at the State Historic Preservation Office. Sources: Utah Digital Newspapers: 1869-05-19 Utah State Historic Preservation Office: https://history.utah.gov/shpo https://www.facebook.com/UtahSHPO https://www.instagram.com/ut_shpo/?hl=en https://twitter.com/shpoutah Utah's Cultural Site Stewardship Program: https://history.utah.gov/shpo/upan/ucss Rails East to Ogden: Utah's Transcontinental Railroad Story https://issuu.com/utah10/docs/rails_east_to_ogden Golden Spike National Historic Park https://www.nps.gov/gosp/index.htm Transcontinental Railroad Sources: https://www.nps.gov/gosp/index.htm https://spike150.org Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association http://www.goldenspike150.org/about-us Driving Maps: https://www.nps.gov/gosp/planyourvisit/maps.htm https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/uploads/BLMUtahTranscontinentalRailroadMap.pdf Please visit my Patreon for a detailed source list. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/demolishedsaltlakepodcast Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/demolishedslpod

On this call, we're speaking with Chris Merritt, a human performance coach at a tier-one special operations unit. Chris has developed a set of principles that guide his training process: modular, mobile, and ready.Chris' goal isn't to make the operators he works with good at exercising. It's to make them good at doing their jobs and to stay that way for the duration of their careers. This is an important distinction. The purpose of their training does not come down to run times or deadlift numbers. It's about leaving on a helicopter at midnight, executing a dangerous and difficult mission, and then being ready to do it again when you get back home, for years on end. This kind of career means a hectic schedule, constantly shifting access to training facilities, and a lot of mental and physical wear and tear.This is why the concepts of modular, mobile, and ready are so useful as guiding principles. During this call, we'll talk about what each of them means, and why they're important in this environment. ----------If you'd like to stalk Chris, you can do so on his Instagram, @chrisbeyondstrength, or at @itsbeyondstrength. The website for his civilian-side training facility is bspnova.com, and if you'd like to learn more about his career as a subway sandwich artist you can email him at chris@beyondstrengthperformance.com.