Podcasts about company culture

What makes a truly effective CHRO in today's complex business landscape? Chelle O'Keefe, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Associa, brings refreshing clarity to this question through her remarkable journey from psychology graduate to C-suite leader.The power of Chelle's approach lies in her unique perspective: despite never taking a formal business class, she's mastered the executive suite by focusing on the fundamental thread connecting all her work—understanding human behavior. "The common thread through my entire background is human behavior," she explains, detailing how this focus has guided her through roles in learning and development, change management, communications, and even marketing before landing in HR leadership.Chelle shares the strategies behind her impressive achievements, including an 80% internal promotion rate and 30% reduction in turnover. Rather than adopting off-the-shelf solutions, her team developed leadership competency models by studying their own successful leaders. This authentic approach created a powerful eight-month development program that transformed their talent pipeline. On retention, her philosophy is wonderfully straightforward: "Leadership is absolutely the first thing that drives that turnover rate," combined with directly asking employees what they want through simple polls rather than complex engagement surveys.Leading HR for an organization with 300 branch offices serving 7.5 million residents worldwide presents unique challenges. Chelle discusses how they manage cultural alignment during acquisitions and maintain cohesion across dispersed locations through their "Associa Book" of values. She offers practical wisdom on AI implementation, suggesting leaders focus on automating "painful repetitive tasks" rather than getting overwhelmed by the broader concept.Perhaps most valuable is Chelle's candid insight into executive influence: "You have to be able to speak the language of the business to sit at the table. That's just table stakes." What truly differentiates exceptional HR leaders is bringing humanity to the C-suite—building relationships, having tough conversations, and sometimes being "the only adult at the table." In a world increasingly focused on technology and metrics, Chelle reminds us that understanding people remains the heart of effective leadership.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

What if the biggest threat to your culture was the language you use?As your firm scales, the way you talk about the people on your team can either create clarity or chaos. In this solo episode, I share a painful but powerful lesson I learned while building Triad Partners—from an underperforming team member we were too afraid to let go, to 100+ A-players aligned to a clear mission.You'll hear the exact mistake we made, why we had to course-correct fast, and how shifting a single word completely transformed how we hire, lead, and hold people accountable.If you're trying to scale your business without sacrificing your team's trust or performance, this episode is for you.3 of the biggest insights from Brad Johnson …#1.) Why “Family” Sends the Wrong MessageCalling your team a “family” feels inclusive, but it clouds expectations. It creates hesitation when tough decisions need to be made and sends mixed signals about what's acceptable. Replacing “family” with “team” gives you the clarity and confidence to lead with consistency.#2.) Families Blur Boundaries but Teams Require ThemIn a family, you show up no matter what, even when standards slip. But in business, that thinking weakens accountability. Teams work best when expectations are clear, responsibilities are defined, and everyone knows what it means to pull their weight.#3.) Belonging Should Be Earned, Not AssumedIn a family, you belong by default. On a team, you earn your spot by aligning with the mission. This mindset shift helps you attract the right people, foster buy-in, and build a culture where everyone's rowing in the same direction.SHOW NOTEShttps://bradleyjohnson.com/122FOLLOW BRAD JOHNSON ON SOCIALTwitterInstagramLinkedInFOLLOW DBDL ON SOCIAL:YouTubeTwitterInstagramLinkedInFacebookDISCLOSURE DBDL podcast episode conversations are intended to provide financial advisors with ideas, strategies, concepts and tools that could be incorporated into their business and their life. Financial professionals are responsible for ensuring implementation of anything discussed related to business is done so in accordance with any and all regulatory, compliance responsibilities and obligations.The Triad member statements reflect their own experience which may not be representative of all Triad Member experiences, and their appearances were not paid for.Triad Wealth Partners, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Please visit Triadwealthpartners.com for more information. Triad Wealth Partners, LLC and Triad Partners, LLC are affiliated companies. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this conversation, Dylan Silver interviews Dan Ahlborn, a successful real estate investor and coach, who shares his journey from Wisconsin to Florida, discussing the challenges he faced, including self-limiting beliefs and the importance of networking. Dan emphasizes the significance of building a strong company culture and the value of mentorship in achieving success in real estate.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

In this episode, Anthony speaks with Wee Kii Teh, a Portfolio Manager at Allianz Global Investors, about the practical skills and mindset needed to succeed in a competitive finance career.Drawing on experience across credit risk, capital markets, and now impact investing, Wee Kii shares what really sets top interns apart, how to adapt to new roles quickly, and why asking smart questions is more important than knowing all the answers.Whether you're preparing for an assessment centre, trying to decide between sell-side and buy-side, or figuring out how to navigate workplace culture, this conversation is full of actionable insight.Expect practical tips on upskilling, career transitions, building strong relationships, and finding roles that match your values and ambition.(00:00) Introduction and Career Journey(02:26) Transitioning from STEM to Finance(08:59) Building Confidence and Seeking Mentorship(13:36) Adapting to New Environments and Upskilling(16:33) The Importance of Company Culture(21:21) Internship Insights and Attributes of Top Interns(24:54) Buy-Side vs Sell-Side Experience(27:53) Cultivating Relationships and Mentorship(31:58) Career Priorities and What Changes with Seniority(34:08) Impact Investing and ESG Opportunities(40:02) Advice for Young Professionals

Matt Ellis (Measurabl): Building a Climate Tech EmpireJoin us with Matt Ellis, Founder & CEO of Measurabl, as he shares how they're transforming the green building industry. Discover how they're leveraging data and AI to drive sustainability, navigating policy, and helping building owners lower emissions. Matt dives into building a billion-dollar climate tech company, the importance of constant reinvention, and lessons in fostering a thriving company culture.In this episode:(01:23) Reinventing Measurabl(05:57) AI and Data's Impact on Measurabl(15:43) Advice for Climate Tech Founders(35:42) Lessons Learned in Talent & Team Building(48:41) Emerging Trends in Sustainability Data & Business ModelsConnect:Matt Ellis on LinkedIn | Measurabl WebsiteConnect with Somil on LinkedIn | Connect with Silas on LinkedInFollow CleanTechies on LinkedIn-----This podcast is NOT investment advice. Do your homework and due diligence before investing in anything discussed on this podcast.Support the showIf you're gonna change the world, you're gonna need a world-class team. Partner with ErthTech Talent to help you do that, for less. 70+ Placements 5+ Years (exclusively in CleanTech) The Lowest Fees in the Market (12-15% of first-year salary) 90-day placement guarantee It's really hard to say no to that. Wait?! -- The best service is also the cheapest? Seems too good to be true, but it's the entire reason we started this company. We believe that Climate entrepreneurs are doing important work, and there should be a firm to help them find the best talent, without it breaking the bank. Reach out today for a free assessment of your hiring process. hello@erthtechtalent.com

In this conversation, Justin Neagle and Will Foret speak with Kami Farahmandpour and Chris Kottra from Building Technology Consultants, Inc. (BTC) about their experiences in the engineering industry, the founding of BTC, and the importance of company culture, leadership transitions, and quality in their work. They discuss the challenges of hiring in a niche market, the significance of training for autonomy, and the role of litigation in honing expertise. The conversation also touches on reflections and advice for future leaders in the industry.

In this episode, we explore why accountability breaks down—and how great leaders rebuild it with empathy and precision.Blame. Denial. Excuse. These aren't just bad habits—they're survival tactics rooted in fear. Junior and Tim unpack the three psychological fears behind patterns of deflection and show you how to coach through them to create high-performing, accountable teams.This one's for leaders who want to stop the spin and start the truth.

John Lane and Will Barfield share a passion for people-centric approaches in the professional world. Discussing the challenges of modern workplace dynamics, the impact of AI and the importance of genuine human connection, John and Will explore their unique business relationship, emphasising the value of serving others, building meaningful networks and prioritising personal growth over traditional success metrics. This conversation reveals the power of listening, creating value beyond transactional interactions and, ultimately showcases the full potential of purposeful partnerships.    KEY TAKEAWAY ‘When we found one another and we found that unified why, we actually decided to start a business together. So we do work separately but also in concert and it's a very unique relationship.'   ABOUT THE GUESTS - JOHN & WILL John Lane specialises in helping business owners and leaders elevate team performance through a two-step program: a Business Alignment Audit to foster engagement and a Growth and Development Plan to boost team effectiveness. Ideal for leadership retreats or strategy-planning sessions, his approach ensures alignment with business goals and prepares teams for sustained success.   Will is a career Salesperson, Sales Leader, and Business Development professional who currently owns and operates an international recruiting practice.  His firm, Barfield Revenue Consulting, focuses on helping companies hire revenue-impacting talent, entry level through executive.  Additionally, Will consults with companies around employee-related subjects like fit to role, cultural alignment and retention. Will is a licensed Organization Analysis & Design (OAD) personality assessment distributor.  He uses the assessment actively in his recruiting practice.    CONNECT WITH JOHN & WILL https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntlane/   John.Lane@DBAJTL.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/willbarfield/ will@barfieldrevenue.com   BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS* The Go Giver by Bob Burg - https://amzn.eu/d/7BRWgUB The Chimp Paradox by Prof. Steve Peters – https://amzn.eu/d/4nlhtd7 Focus on Why by Amy Rowlinson with George F. Kerr - https://amzn.eu/d/6W02HWu   ABOUT THE HOST - AMY ROWLINSON Amy is a purpose and fulfilment coach, author, podcast strategist, podcaster and mastermind host helping you to improve productivity, engagement and fulfilment in your everyday life and work. Prepare to banish overwhelm, underwhelm and frustration to live with clarity of purpose.   WORK WITH AMY If you're interested in how purpose can help you and your business, please book a free 30 min call via https://calendly.com/amyrowlinson/call    KEEP IN TOUCH WITH AMY Sign up for the weekly Friday Focus - https://www.amyrowlinson.com/subscribe-to-weekly-newsletter   CONNECT WITH AMY https://linktr.ee/AmyRowlinson   HOSTED BY: Amy Rowlinson   DISCLAIMER The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the host and guest speakers. Please conduct your own due diligence. *As an Amazon Associate, Amy earns from qualifying purchases.

Get registered for the ASTA Expo 2025 at the Raleigh Convention Center: https://geni.us/ASTA2025 Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2025Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityMake sure you mention: CTISUMMER to get FREE data migration!Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into one sleek, digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Josh Parnell of Limitless Leadership. Josh explores the challenges of leadership in the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of connection and trust-building within teams. The discussion dives into effective onboarding, consistent coaching, and why prioritizing leadership development is essential for sustained business growth.00:00 Father-Son Love and Acceptance08:12 Consolidating Cosmetics Ventures14:03 Pioneering Black Woman in Men's Grooming18:45 High-Quality Personal Care Products23:25 Expert Insights on Corporate Culture28:48 "Effective Communication and One-on-Ones"34:33 Embracing Self-Doubt and Awareness40:01 Reassuring Client After Bad Experience44:43 Mastery Through Focused Practice49:40 "Prioritizing Vacation Time"58:55 Passion Fuels Diagnostic Mastery01:00:12 Over-Invested Technician Dilemma01:09:19 Strategizing Scenarios for Clarity01:12:11 Muscle Supplements: Dosage and Effects01:15:26 Podcast Musings: Seeking Direction

In this episode of Fuel Your Drive, I break down one of the most powerful concepts in leadership and business—standards. I talk about how your standards shape your company culture, guide your team, and directly impact your success. From real-life experiences to the core values and pillars that fuel my own company, I show you exactly how to lead by example and build something great. Whether you're just starting or leveling up, this episode is your blueprint for setting the tone at the top.

Sam & Matt are joined by Dad as they discuss their thoughts on the new Superman film, the new DC Cinematic universe and the company culture at work vs the company culture in the Empire.Music provided by the Youtube Studio Audio LibraryFind Us At:Sam: @reeltexasweirdo Matt's Insta/Threads: @holyhandgrenadeofantiochMatt's BluSky: @matthewjimenezEmail: lostlegaciespodcast@gmail.comYouTube: @TheHiddenCityBookCoFind us at #LostLegaciesComments? Questions?? Concerns!?! Click here to text us!

The U.S. faces a talent crisis with millions of skilled candidates overlooked due to outdated hiring practices. The SHRM Foundation's Center for a Skills-First Future aims to bridge this gap by transforming how employers approach talent acquisition.In this HRchat conversation with Bill Banham, SHRM Foundation President Wendi Safstrom reveals why skills-first hiring has moved to the forefront of strategic thinking for forward-looking organizations. "Talent is America's greatest asset," she explains, noting that employers increasingly rely on workforce creativity and innovation to compete. Yet traditional credential-based hiring creates artificial barriers that exclude qualified candidates simply because they lack formal degrees.The statistics paint a sobering picture: 75% of employers struggle to fill positions, nearly half face retention challenges, and replacing employees costs up to four times their salary. Meanwhile, one-third of working-age adults without four-year degrees possess valuable skills that remain untapped. As AI and technology rapidly transform skill requirements, the disconnect between educational outputs and workforce needs continues to widen.Beyond addressing the immediate talent shortage, the Center for a Skills-First Future expands support for overlooked talent pools, including military community members and "opportunity youth" aged 16-24 who are neither in education nor employment. The initiative provides HR professionals with practical tools, including a new certificate program focused on skills-first recruitment strategies.Learn more about the SHRM Foundation to join a movement reshaping America's workplace.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

How do you move from fear to purpose? Bestselling author and TikTok exec Michal Oshman shares how discovering her soul helped her overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt. She opens up about parenting with intention, redefining success, and embracing the concept of bitul—spiritual humility—as a path to clarity and peace.Michal Oshman is the former Head of Company Culture, Diversity and Inclusion at TikTok Europe, and was formerly responsible for international leadership and team development at Facebook. Throughout her career, Michal has trained and coached hundreds of tech leaders. She served as an officer in the IDF, and has three university degrees in psychodynamic and systemic thinking, sociology, and anthropology. Michal lives with her husband and their children in London, UK. Find out more about Michal on michaloshman.com. Contact Michal at info@michaloshman.comTo inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at info@humanandholy.comTo support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.* * * * * * *TIMESTAMPS:00:00 – Intro: Fear, Purpose & Jewish Wisdom01:37 – Meet Michal Oshman05:10 – Fear vs. Anxiety09:00 – Discovering the Jewish Soul14:00 – You Are Here for a Reason18:00 – Parenting with Soul, Not Fear22:10 – Hashem as a Life Partner25:20 – The Holiness of Marriage29:20 – Confidence vs. Fear in the Workplace33:50 – Letting Go of Parental Perfection38:10 – Finding Purpose Through Life Phases44:45 – Discovering and Using Your Gifts48:00 – What Is Bitul?52:25 – Living for a Mission Greater Than the Self55:00 – The Power of Honest Friendship57:20 – You Are Needed

Have you ever wondered how to pull off a team retreat that's actually fun, productive, and builds real connection? After years of trial and error, I've finally found a rhythm that works. In this episode, I break down exactly how we designed our recent team retreat in Mexico City, what made it a success, and some of the biggest mistakes I've made in the past (think: go-karts and back injuries). Listen in as I walk through our retreat schedule—from soaking in cliffside hot springs and taking a taco tour to having deep team conversations about AI and productivity. I talk about why your primary focus should not be productivity (even if that's tough as a founder), why food tours are criminally underrated, and how one cocktail mixing class turned into the most memorable night of the trip. I'll also share how I prep both myself and the team before the retreat, who I think should get an invite, and why renting an Airbnb beats hotel conference rooms every time. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/4ldEMfg Interested in our Private Community for 7-Figure Store Owners?  Learn more here.   Want to hear about new episodes and eCommerce news round-ups?  Subscribe via email.

#thePOZcast is proudly brought to you by Fountain - the leading enterprise platform for workforce management. Our platform enables companies to support their frontline workers from job application to departure. Fountain elevates the hiring, management, and retention of frontline workers at scale.To learn more, please visit: https://www.fountain.com/?utm_source=shrm-2024&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=shrm-2024-podcast-adam-posner.Thanks for listening, and please follow us on Insta @NHPTalent and www.youtube.com/thePOZcast For all episodes, please check out www.thePOZcast.com SummaryIn this conversation, Randy Shacka shares his remarkable journey from a marketing intern to Two Men and a Truck president. He discusses the foundational values instilled by his parents, the importance of internships in shaping his career, and the challenges of building a brand from the ground up. Randy emphasizes the significance of leadership, resilience, and establishing a clear vision for the future, all while maintaining a people-first approach in business. In this conversation, Randy discusses his journey as a leader at Two Men and a Truck, sharing insights on navigating leadership challenges, enhancing customer experience, and the importance of hiring for cultural fit. He emphasizes the need for agility in meeting customer demands and the significance of data-driven decision-making in franchise management. Randy also reflects on the brand's expansion with Two Men and a Junk Truck, addressing the challenges and opportunities of growth. He concludes by sharing his personal definition of success, which revolves around paying it forward and helping others grow.Takeaways- Randy's journey from intern to president showcases the power of hard work and perseverance.- Values instilled by parents play a crucial role in shaping leadership styles.- Internships provide critical exposure to both what one enjoys and what one does not.- Building a brand requires grassroots efforts and a strong community presence.- Leadership involves understanding and addressing the needs of team members and franchisees.- Establishing a clear vision is essential for guiding a growing organization.- Navigating challenges requires resilience and a focus on core values.- The importance of listening and seeking to understand in leadership roles.- Creating a culture of care and compassion can drive organizational success.- Continuous improvement and innovation are key to staying relevant in business. - Listening to customers is crucial for success.- Agility in meeting customer needs is essential.- Hiring for cultural fit is more important than skills alone.- Interviewing should focus on values and team dynamics.- The hiring process must be intentional and communicative.- Data-driven decisions enhance operational efficiency.- Franchise consistency is vital for brand reputation.- Expanding the brand requires careful consideration and strategy.- Success is defined by the ability to help others grow. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Randy Shaka's Journey02:49 Foundations of Values and Work Ethic05:49 The Internship Experience and Career Beginnings09:02 Building a Brand from the Ground Up11:57 Leadership and Navigating Challenges15:06 Establishing a Vision for the Future24:02 Navigating Leadership Challenges26:02 Enhancing Customer Experience26:59 Hiring Philosophy and Culture Fit29:56 Interviewing for Values and Team Dynamics32:00 Innovations in Hiring Process33:49 Data-Driven Decision Making35:55 Franchise Consistency and Accountability39:02 Expanding the Brand: Two Men and a Junk Truck41:51 Leadership Concerns and Future Outlook43:55 Defining Personal Success   

In this conversation, Shannon Huffman Polson and Dave discuss the importance of purpose and values in leadership and entrepreneurship. Dave shares his early career experiences at Hewlett Packard, the challenges he faced while founding Good Technology, and the profound impact of Joseph Campbell's hero's journey on his perspective. He introduces the concept of evergreen companies, which prioritize long-term sustainability over rapid growth, and outlines the seven P's that define these companies. The discussion emphasizes the need for a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share these values and principles. In this conversation, Dave discusses the importance of partnerships, particularly his relationship with Jessica Herron, and how it shaped his understanding of building evergreen companies. He emphasizes the need for a deliberate approach to innovation and growth, focusing on sustainability rather than quick profits. The discussion also highlights the significance of aligning personal purpose with professional goals, especially in the context of employee engagement and satisfaction. Dave envisions a future where a new generation of entrepreneurs can redefine business success by prioritizing purpose and creativity over traditional funding models. Takeaways Purpose and values are crucial for effective leadership. Early experiences shape our understanding of corporate culture. Personal challenges can impact professional journeys. The hero's journey offers valuable insights for business leaders. Evergreen companies focus on long-term sustainability. Community support is vital for like-minded entrepreneurs. The seven P's provide a framework for building lasting companies. Introverts often have a strong internal compass for their goals. Rewiring our thinking is necessary for new business models. Hidden evergreen companies exist and need recognition. Partnerships can significantly influence business development. Evergreen companies prioritize long-term sustainability over quick profits. Innovation requires a deliberate approach to risk management. Personal purpose alignment is crucial for employee satisfaction. Companies should measure personal purpose during recruitment. Growth rates impact the capacity for reflection and development. Evergreen companies can thrive without external capital. The true purpose of many companies may differ from their stated mission. Investors often prioritize financial returns over authentic company purpose. A new generation of entrepreneurs can redefine business success.   Contact Details Website: https://www.tugboatinstitute.com Book https://bookshop.org/a/15754/9798892791137  

Jeff Ustin is the Vice President of Western Bagel, the first bagel shop in Los Angeles. He helps carry on his great-grandfather's 75-year legacy while leading the brand's national and international expansion. Under his leadership, Western Bagel has become a West Coast staple, blending New York tradition with LA innovation. Carrying on a rich 75-year legacy, Jeff is the great-grandson of David Ustin, a union bagel baker from New York City who founded Western Bagel in 1947. Jeff grew up immersed in the business, learning every aspect from sweeping floors at 3 AM with his father, Steve, to managing retail stores. Under his leadership, Western Bagel continues to blend New York tradition with LA innovation, expanding its reach nationally and internationally while preserving its strong family values and commitment to employeeSHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of the Disruptive Successor Podcast, host Jonathan Goldhill talks with Jeff Ustin, Vice President of Western Bagel. Jeff shares the fascinating history of his family's 75-year-old bagel business, from its New York roots to becoming a West Coast staple. The conversation explores the unique challenges and triumphs of generational transitions, maintaining a strong company culture based on loyalty and respect, and the ongoing efforts to modernize and expand the brand in a competitive market. Jeff offers valuable insights into balancing tradition with innovation, adapting to consumer trends, and navigating market shifts like the COVID-19 pandemic, all while staying true to Western Bagel's core values.KEY TAKEAWAYSA Legacy Built on Hard Work and Family: Jeff highlights how Western Bagel's 75-year success is rooted in the tireless dedication of his great-grandfather and father, who instilled a strong work ethic and passion for the business from a young age.The Backbone of Employee Loyalty: The longevity and success of Western Bagel are largely attributed to their deep respect for employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades, fostered by an open-door policy and a family-like culture.Balancing Tradition with Innovation: Western Bagel masterfully combines its New York bagel heritage with an LA touch, creating a less dense bagel that appeals to the local market while continuously exploring new products and adapting to modern consumer preferences like high-protein options.Modernizing for the Next Generation: The company is actively investing in social media, hiring PR firms, and exploring new concepts to connect with younger customers and expand its brand presence, ensuring relevance in a constantly evolving market.Strategic Expansion in a Competitive Landscape: Jeff discusses the deliberate planning behind market expansion, emphasizing the need to "hit hard" when entering new areas and the constant evaluation of opportunities in wholesale, private label, and potential new factory locations.Lessons from Adversity: Navigating COVID-19: The pandemic, while challenging, pushed Western Bagel to adapt and grow, particularly in delivery services, leading to valuable operational improvements and a stronger, more resilient business.Sticking to Your Core and Giving Back: Jeff emphasizes the importance of focusing on what the company does best – making authentic bagels – and its unwavering commitment to community involvement and stewardship through charitable giving.QUOTES"You're only as good as your employees that you have. You need to be loyal to them. They're the backbone of your company.""If you don't change with the times, you're gonna fail.""You gotta know what you know and what you don't know... you gotta put that ego aside and, and trust people and learn.""We know we have the best bagel out there. We take pride in our bagel. We use the highest quality ingredient. I mean, it's a, it matters to us.""There's always something good that comes outta something horrific.""You gotta help those that need help... we believe that's our job as a, as a company, is to help those in need."Connect and learn more about Jeff Ustin and his company:Jeff Ustin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-ustin-307a1710b/Western Bagel: https://westernbagel.com/If you enjoyed today's episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you're interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill's book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

What comes to mind when you think about “company culture”? Study after study has confirmed that cultural fit impacts the success of everything from mergers and acquisitions to alliances to outsourcing and introducing new technology. And yet there are still many myths about when company culture begins, how many ways it can show up, andRead More The post Debunking Myths About Company Culture appeared first on Business Advancement.

Jeff Ustin is the Vice President of Western Bagel, the first bagel shop in Los Angeles. He helps carry on his great-grandfather's 75-year legacy while leading the brand's national and international expansion. Under his leadership, Western Bagel has become a West Coast staple, blending New York tradition with LA innovation. Carrying on a rich 75-year legacy, Jeff is the great-grandson of David Ustin, a union bagel baker from New York City who founded Western Bagel in 1947. Jeff grew up immersed in the business, learning every aspect from sweeping floors at 3 AM with his father, Steve, to managing retail stores. Under his leadership, Western Bagel continues to blend New York tradition with LA innovation, expanding its reach nationally and internationally while preserving its strong family values and commitment to employeeSHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of the Disruptive Successor Podcast, host Jonathan Goldhill talks with Jeff Ustin, Vice President of Western Bagel. Jeff shares the fascinating history of his family's 75-year-old bagel business, from its New York roots to becoming a West Coast staple. The conversation explores the unique challenges and triumphs of generational transitions, maintaining a strong company culture based on loyalty and respect, and the ongoing efforts to modernize and expand the brand in a competitive market. Jeff offers valuable insights into balancing tradition with innovation, adapting to consumer trends, and navigating market shifts like the COVID-19 pandemic, all while staying true to Western Bagel's core values.KEY TAKEAWAYSA Legacy Built on Hard Work and Family: Jeff highlights how Western Bagel's 75-year success is rooted in the tireless dedication of his great-grandfather and father, who instilled a strong work ethic and passion for the business from a young age.The Backbone of Employee Loyalty: The longevity and success of Western Bagel are largely attributed to their deep respect for employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades, fostered by an open-door policy and a family-like culture.Balancing Tradition with Innovation: Western Bagel masterfully combines its New York bagel heritage with an LA touch, creating a less dense bagel that appeals to the local market while continuously exploring new products and adapting to modern consumer preferences like high-protein options.Modernizing for the Next Generation: The company is actively investing in social media, hiring PR firms, and exploring new concepts to connect with younger customers and expand its brand presence, ensuring relevance in a constantly evolving market.Strategic Expansion in a Competitive Landscape: Jeff discusses the deliberate planning behind market expansion, emphasizing the need to "hit hard" when entering new areas and the constant evaluation of opportunities in wholesale, private label, and potential new factory locations.Lessons from Adversity: Navigating COVID-19: The pandemic, while challenging, pushed Western Bagel to adapt and grow, particularly in delivery services, leading to valuable operational improvements and a stronger, more resilient business.Sticking to Your Core and Giving Back: Jeff emphasizes the importance of focusing on what the company does best – making authentic bagels – and its unwavering commitment to community involvement and stewardship through charitable giving.QUOTES"You're only as good as your employees that you have. You need to be loyal to them. They're the backbone of your company.""If you don't change with the times, you're gonna fail.""You gotta know what you know and what you don't know... you gotta put that ego aside and, and trust people and learn.""We know we have the best bagel out there. We take pride in our bagel. We use the highest quality ingredient. I mean, it's a, it matters to us.""There's always something good that comes outta something horrific.""You gotta help those that need help... we believe that's our job as a, as a company, is to help those in need."Connect and learn more about Jeff Ustin and his company:Jeff Ustin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-ustin-307a1710b/Western Bagel: https://westernbagel.com/If you enjoyed today's episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. If you're interested in picking up a copy of Jonathan Goldhill's book, Disruptive Successor, go to the website at www.DisruptiveSuccessor.com

What happens when your company outgrows the culture that once defined it? In this episode of the MarsBased Podcast, Àlex Rodríguez Bacardit sits down with Greg from TextExpander to discuss how growing to 30+ employees forced them to revisit their values, communication style, and internal training.Greg explains how to recognize the right moment to redefine your company culture and why they decided to introduce internal training programs to support that shift. He shares how seemingly simple tools, like their cultural mantra “Be Obvious”, played a powerful role in improving team communication. The conversation also explores how remote companies can foster stronger ownership and alignment across teams, and what actually makes a training program worth the investment.Greg also opens up about how they involved the entire team in redefining values, brought in external coaches to support the process, and measured the cultural impact over time. Skipping this process, he says, could have been their most expensive mistake.Whether you're scaling a remote team or wondering how to make culture actionable, not just aspirational, this episode is packed with real talk and practical insights.Support the show

Raise your hand if you've been through a layoff. Keep your hand raised if you kept your job through it and are faced with the reality of attempting to rebuild the company culture after a massive layoff. You are what people call a “survivor” and my goodness, that's a lot of pressure on your shoulders to help the organization recover, eh? My all-star special guest today is culture lead and event planner, Daniel Stokes and he's simplifying how to rebuild company culture after a massive layoff. Both Daniel and I have recently been through a layoff at a large organization and we come to the table with practical advice that you can begin to implement at your own company immediately. Here's how. My all-star special guest today is Daniel Stokes and he's simplifying how to rebuild company culture after a massive layoff. We tackle and simplify all aspects of it, including: What the very first step is that your HR or People & Culture team must take immediately after a layoff has been announced at your organization. Why he believes that “culture repair is everyone's job,” and not just the responsibility of HR. Let's face it - Trust is lost after a layoff… He talks about the ways that managers and senior leadership can work together to rebuild that trust with their workforce, one conversation at a time. One major mistake that organizations tend to make after announcing a layoff that is a massive blunder. How to create a safe space for employee listening (through forums, surveys, town halls), where employee feedback can be captured and then actioned upon. …and ultimately, we implore everyone listening to this to consider one simple idea: instead of cutting People & Culture budgets after a layoff, what a better solution would be to improve employee engagement and rebuild company pride. Q: Are you ready to learn how to rebuild your company's culture after a layoff? If yes, this one is for you. It's time to #DoTheThing! ---- Show notes available with all links mentioned here: https://www.thesimplifiers.com/posts/386-how-to-rebuild-company-culture-after-a-massive-layoff---with-daniel-stokes-all-star

On this episode of the Customers First Podcast, I engage in an enlightening conversation with Dustin Jensen, the founder of AIA System, a pioneering venture in the realm of AI applications. We delve deep into the nuanced world of customer experiences and how AI can serve as an essential ally in creating memorable interactions. He emphasizes that AI is not the flashy tool many perceive it to be, but rather an invisible co-pilot poised to enhance our workflows through subtle, intelligent interactions. Dustin elaborates on the importance of integrating AI within organizations, noting that many companies are still grappling with the implementation process. This is not merely about adopting technology for technology's sake; it's about enhancing the customer journey and streamlining operations to ultimately boost productivity and satisfaction. As our conversation progresses, we turn our attention to the healthcare industry, where Dustin highlights how AI can relieve the burdens of administrative tasks, allowing professionals to dedicate more time to their patients. The aim here is not to replace human interaction, but to elevate it, ensuring that healthcare providers can focus on building meaningful relationships with their patients. We also tackle the fears surrounding job loss due to AI, emphasizing the necessity of human involvement even in increasingly automated processes. Dustin reinforces the idea that AI is about augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them; it enables people to focus on more substantial, value-driven tasks, thus fostering a more collaborative environment between humans and AI. Towards the end of our conversation, we discuss strategies for building customer-centric cultures that embrace AI while steering clear of disruption. Through this dialogue, we demystify AI and explore how it can serve as a bridge to enhanced customer experiences without sacrificing the vital human touch. This episode ultimately paints a picture of a collaborative future where technology and human talent work hand-in-hand to create magical experiences for customers.   Dustin's Contact Information: Website: https://aiasystem.com LinkedIn: @dustin-jensen   Tacey's Contact Information: Website: taceyatkinson.com All Socials: @TaceyAtkinson   Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to having more valuable conversations together in the future. Remember: Customer-Centric Cultures Create Magical Customer Experiences. Now Go, Create the Magic!  

In this series of episodes on Our Agile Tales, we're getting radically honest about company culture with Lizzie Benton—culture coach, founder of Liberty Mind, and one of the most refreshingly candid voices in the world of modern work.Let's face it: “culture” has become a buzzword. It's often pitched as a magic bullet for success, but most organizations still struggle to define it—let alone get it right. In this series, Lizzie helps us move beyond the platitudes. She unpacks what culture actually is, why so many transformations fall flat, and what it really takes to build a workplace where both people and business can thrive.We'll explore the tools and mindsets that matter, and dig into the uncomfortable truths that often get overlooked.In this episode:We continue our conversation with Lizzie Benton and cover topics such as the importance of autonomy in teams, examples of hierarchical organizations experimenting with agile methods, and strategies for effective recruitment and team development. Lizzie emphasizes values-based recruitment, meaningful experiments within hierarchies, the significance of feedback, and the importance of coaching and listening skills. The episode also provides practical advice on improving meeting structures and fostering a culture where feedback is timely and constructive.00:00 Introduction02:07 Empowering Teams in Structured Organizations05:32 Values-Based Recruitment and Hiring Challenges10:00 Training and Developing Existing Employees12:44 Effective Meetings and Decision-Making16:51 The Importance of Listening and Coaching20:12 Mastering Feedback in Company Culture29:31 ConclusionAbout Lizzie Benton:Lizzie is a culture coach and the founder of Liberty Mind. She helps companies evolve beyond bureaucratic structures toward more human-centered, purpose-driven workplaces. She's worked across industries—from tech to charities to construction—always with a focus on unlocking human potential and helping teams co-create meaningful change.Her approach blends depth and practicality, rooted in progressive practices like self-management, Liberating Structures, and Teal principles. Lizzie is a certified Holacracy Practitioner, Semco Style Expert, and TuffLeadership coach. She's been named one of the top 30 millennials changing the world of work and has been featured in Forbes, The Metro, and The Financial Times.Visit us at https://www.ouragiletales.com/about

In this conversation, Ismael Valdez discusses the significance of profitability, the impact of private equity on the industry, and the necessity of preparation for business growth. The discussion also touches on leadership, company culture, and the legacy that entrepreneurs leave for future generations. He emphasizes the importance of leading by example in parenting, the necessity of delegation in business, and the value of cultivating a high-performance team. He also touches on the challenges of navigating business growth, the drive for success, and the role of AI in enhancing customer service. Don't forget to register for Tommy's event, Freedom 2025! This is the event where Tommy's billion-dollar network will break down exactly how to accelerate your business and dominate your market in 2025. For more details visit freedomevent.com   00:00 The Journey to Success   03:01 Building a Winning Team   05:58 The Role of Competition in Business   08:54 Learning from Industry Leaders   12:05 The Importance of Profitability   15:01 Navigating Private Equity   17:49 The Impact of Private Equity on the Industry   20:58 Preparing for Business Growth   23:53 Leadership and Company Culture   26:57 Legacy and Future Generations   32:29 Parenting with Purpose   34:08 The Importance of Delegation   36:28 Cultivating a High-Performance Team   39:06 Learning from Mistakes   41:13 Navigating Business Growth   44:47 The Drive for Success   45:25 Market Expansion Strategies   48:20 The Role of AI in Home Services   52:23 Innovations in HVAC Technology  

Toxic culture doesn't always show up with warning signs—it can creep in slowly, through unchecked gossip, lack of accountability, or subtle disrespect. Over time, even high-performing teams start to fray at the edges, with morale dropping and turnover quietly rising. The energy that once drove growth gets replaced with tension and mistrust, and suddenly the business feels heavy. It's not always about strategy or systems—sometimes it's the atmosphere that's quietly pulling everything apart. Debbie Longo is a corporate behavior coach with over two decades of experience helping leaders fix toxic work environments. She focuses on identifying and removing negative behaviors that quietly erode team morale and productivity. Toda, Debbie discusses how unchecked attitudes spread and hurt performance across entire organizations. She stresses that ignoring these patterns can kill profits and even sink a business. Her strategies are direct, practical, and built for real workplace results. Stay tuned! Resources: Unlock Your Team's Potential | Transform Skills and Behaviors for Workplace Success Subscribe to Debbie Longo on YouTube Follow Debbie Longo on Facebook

Listen to hear how Ericsson's workplace culture was transformed by a cleaner, and the lessons this brings in empowerment and initiative. In Episode 254, Shawn … The post 254 – Cooking Up Company Culture – Ericsson appeared first on Anecdote.

Science and technology will bring more change to health care over the next decade than we saw in the past century, says Joaquin Duato, Chairman and CEO, Johnson & Johnson, and a 2025 Distinguished Leadership Award honoree. What drives his confidence, and how is the company creating this future?     Join David K. Young and Duato to discover what he has learned in 36 years at J&J, how the company innovates in science and technology, and how the company supports employees and communities.  This Leadership in Challenging Times discussion is featured as a C-Suite Perspectives podcast and a special CED Policy Watch Webcast. Leadership in Challenging Times features timely and insightful discussions with the outstanding CEOs who are recipients of CED's Distinguished Leadership Awards. Business leader honorees discuss the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and how they are helping chart a path forward for both their companies and communities in which they operate.      (04:08) Leadership Philosophy and Company Culture (06:48) Secrets to Johnson & Johnson's Longevity (09:11) Transforming Health Care with Science and Technology (12:09) Investment Strategies in Health Care Innovation (15:53) Advancing Technology and AI at Johnson & Johnson (18:38) Addressing the Global Health Care Workforce Shortfall (19:41) Ensuring Access to Health Care for Underserved Communities   For more from The Conference Board:  CED Announces Recipients of Its 2025 Distinguished Leadership Awards  CED Distinguished Leadership Awards Celebration 

In this episode of CMO Convo, we sit down with Noel Hamill, the Global CMO at ParcelLab. Noel shares his insights on the importance of brand identity and how to cultivate a strong internal culture that supports and amplifies a company's brand.

The boundary between professional and personal life has never been more blurred. As Dr. Alexander Lovell, Research Director at the O.C. Tanner Institute, reveals in this compelling episode, employees worldwide are increasingly operating in "survival mode" rather than thriving at work, and the consequences extend far beyond productivity metrics.Alex introduces guest host Dr. Bill Howatt to the "Survival Continuum", a framework that maps the journey from mere survival to genuine thriving. This isn't a simple binary state but rather a nuanced spectrum where employees can experience varying degrees of struggle or fulfillment. Through extensive research, his team has identified three critical pillars determining where employees fall on this continuum: compensation, healthcare access, and the often-underestimated power of belonging.The financial reality for many workers is sobering. While executives might imagine employees dreaming of lavish vacations, Dr. Lovell's research reveals most simply hope for "not having an empty bank account by the end of the month." This disconnect between perception and reality represents a significant blind spot for leaders trying to address workplace wellbeing.Perhaps most illuminating is the discussion around mental health stigma. Despite increased awareness, employees continue to mask anxiety and depression behind more palatable terms like "burnout" or "feeling tired". This linguistic substitution reveals how far we still need to go in normalizing authentic mental health conversations in professional settings. Meanwhile, the cost of presenteeism—being physically present but mentally elsewhere—exceeds absenteeism costs by 7.5 times.For HR professionals feeling overwhelmed by these challenges, Dr. Lovell offers practical starting points. Begin by taking inventory of existing resources, then focus on creating genuine belonging through recognition and leader modeling of appropriate vulnerability. Ready to help your team move from survival to thriving? Subscribe to the HRchat show and Dr Bill's new podcast, Exploring Workplace Mental Health, for more insights on creating workplaces where belonging and wellbeing drive sustainable performance.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here. Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our in-person events

Ping Identity Founder & CEO, Andre Durand, explains that in a 10-10 culture, “the how matters as much as the what.” Over time, through his experience as a multi-time founder, he has come to resonate with one simple cultural north star that he refers to as “10-10” to strike a balance between performance and attitude. In this Beyond the Deal minisode, Andre Durand sits down with Thoma Bravo's Orlando Bravo and Chip Virnig to discuss some of the pivotal moments that shaped his journey as an entrepreneur and what guides his leadership style today. For more information on Thoma Bravo's Behind the Deal, visit https://www.thomabravo.com/behindthedeal Learn more about Thoma Bravo: https://www.thomabravo.com/ Visit Ping's website: https://www.pingidentity.com/en.html To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we're picking up with the second part of my conversation with Jodi Berg, the former President & CEO of Vitamix.In Part 1, we explored Jodi's career, the history, evolution, and family legacy of Vitamix, and her leadership journey in growing the company into the global brand it is today.In Part 2, we continue with her reflections on stepping away from the business—and dive deeper into her philosophy of purpose, the DANCE framework she's developing to help others lead more intentional lives, and the wisdom she's distilled from decades of research, teaching, and hands-on leadership and entrepreneurial experience.It's a wide-ranging, deeply thoughtful conversation about what it means to live and lead with purpose—not to mention, a lot of fun. I'm so excited to share it with you.00:00:00 - Reflecting on Leadership and Culture  00:04:25 - Succession Planning in Family Businesses  00:06:56 - Navigating Leadership Transitions  00:13:44 - The Importance of Purpose  00:15:18 - Personal Experiences Shaping Purpose  00:19:34 - Helping Others Find Their Wings  00:26:33 - The Dual Nature of Purpose  00:35:23 - Impact of Personal Purpose on Company Culture  00:41:26 - The Impact of Personal Purpose  00:46:51 - Understanding and Helping Others  00:47:27 - Writing a Purpose-Driven Book  00:48:39 - The DANCE Framework for Decision-Making  00:56:20 - The Importance of Purpose in Decision-Making  01:02:42 - Discovering Superpowers and Purpose  01:03:26 - Innovating the Blender: A New Approach  01:10:05 - Technology and Purpose in Business  01:14:53 - Hidden Gem-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodilberg/https://www.vitamix.com/us/en_us/Original Vitamix Infomercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm5IzzGPzQA-----SPONSOR:Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs.Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here.Past guests include Justin Bibb (Mayor of Cleveland), Pat Conway (Great Lakes Brewing), Steve Potash (OverDrive), Umberto P. Fedeli (The Fedeli Group), Lila Mills (Signal Cleveland), Stewart Kohl (The Riverside Company), Mitch Kroll (Findaway — Acquired by Spotify), and over 200 other Cleveland Entrepreneurs.Connect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

Send us a textCharlie Sull, Co-Founder of CultureX and Culture Researcher at MIT, joins us this episode to explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the way we understand and measure corporate culture. He explains why traditional employee surveys fall short and how AI tools are providing new insights into what employees really think about their workplace culture.[0:00] IntroductionWelcome, Charlie!Today's Topic: Using AI to Understand and Improve Corporate Culture[5:30] Why should anyone care about cultural measurement?We know culture is important, but many still see it as an ethereal concept that's difficult to manageWhy so many people think corporate culture is marketing nonsense[13:22] How is culture actually measured?Why 1-to-5-point scale surveys fail to capture true sentimentUsing LLMs to analyze and distill human sentiment from employee reviews[24:13] Why is AI a better way of measuring company culture?Why deciphering complex employee sentiments is nearly impossible with traditional surveysThe newfound flexibility of gathering data for culture analysis using AI tools[35:08] ClosingThanks for listening!Quick Quote“[With traditional 1-to-5-point scale surveys] you're not getting any information. If you're trying to measure company culture with this robotic, repetitive low quality data, you just can't understand . . . what your employees are saying.”To schedule a meeting with us: https://salary.com/hrdlconsulting For more HR Data Labs®, enjoy the HR Data Labs Brown Bag Lunch Hours every Friday at 2:00PM-2:30PM EST. Check it out here: https://hrdatalabs.com/brown-bag-lunch/ Produced by Affogato Media

In this episode of The Steward Chair, Steve Carse, Co-founder and CEO of King of Pops, shares his journey of building a joyful, community-driven business from a popsicle stand into an iconic Atlanta brand. He explores how intentional culture, community stewardship, and long-term thinking drive meaningful, sustainable growth. We discuss navigating the balance between fun and responsibility, maintaining culture through growth, and creating impact beyond profit, providing actionable takeaways for leaders committed to stewardship, integrity, and impact. Key Takeaways Intentional culture-building: How creating space for joy, fun, and community can fuel a purpose-driven business. Stewardship through scaling: Lessons learned in maintaining culture and stakeholder relationships while growing King of Pops into a multi-city brand. Balancing joy and responsibility: How to lead a business that brings happiness to customers and meaning to employees, while being accountable to the broader community. Resources Mentioned Visit King of Pops official website Follow King of Pops on Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn Follow Steve Carse on LinkedIn Join the ConversationThe Steward Chair is about equipping and inspiring business leaders to build organizations that stand the test of time. If this episode resonated with you, share your biggest takeaway and tag us on LinkedIn: Chat With Leaders Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/chatwithleaders/ End of the Line Productions https://www.linkedin.com/company/end-of-the-line-productions/ Elevate your podcast, company meeting, or industry event strategies to better engage stakeholders and drive meaningful growth! Visit ChatWithLeaders.com to learn more about how we can help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Creating and maintaining a consistent culture, identity and values can be tricky for a big company, especially when you have nearly 40,000 employees and operate in close to 30 countries worldwide. The onus is on the company to build community while operating in many different, often complex regulatory environments. In this episode, KBR Chief People Officer Jenni Myles speaks about the challenges of building and strengthening corporate culture in never-ending unprecedented times, about how recent U.S. policy changes provided the catalyst to accelerate KBR's people strategy, and about the importance of creating spaces for employees to belong, connect and grow.

How Smart Founders Get 5–100× Higher Business Exit Value John Ratliff On The Homefront Unlock the insider strategies behind maximizing your business exit — beyond just EBITDA multiples. In this in-depth Home Front interview, John Ratliff walks us through: Why most business owners sell for less than they deserve How to build with the ideal buyer persona in mind Structuring deals that attract “must‑have” buyers and unlock premium valuation Avoiding common exit mistakes (e.g., unprepared financials, single bidder, structure pitfalls) Culture-first leadership: treating frontline staff as your most important asset “Dream On” program insights: boosting morale, reducing turnover, and saving $ M Speaking your bold future into existence (strategic aim & painted picture) The power of community and masterminds for founder growth Perfect for founders, CEOs, and business changemakers serious about maximizing their exit and taking their company (and culture) to the next level. ⭐ Subscribe for more founder exit strategies & culture-first leadership insights. John Ratliff on LinkedIn Align5 

On this episode, I am joined by Chris Gillen, a distinguished leadership advisor, coach, and speaker who has dedicated his career to fostering cultures of trust and accountability in organizations. We delve into the central themes of his latest book, "The Villain Trap," which explores how blame undermines leadership and erodes the foundation of effective team dynamics. Chris, with over 35 years of retail experience, shares valuable insights on how individuals, knowingly or unknowingly, can become the villains in their leadership narratives. Chris recounts his transition from running large retail operations to coaching startups, providing a unique perspective on cultivating a culture of empowerment and ownership in workplaces. His phrase "the blame bubble" encapsulates the moment when leaders fail to take accountability for their actions, often leading to detrimental consequences for team morale and organizational culture. Through his personal anecdotes and professional journey, Chris underscores the urgency of recognizing this issue to prevent it from spiralling into a poisonous atmosphere within teams. As we delve into the mechanisms of blame and villainization, Chris outlines the five distinct stages of the villain trap, starting with the initial trigger of discomfort that leads to the victim reflex and ultimately to the emotional justification of villain creation. This cycle illustrates how leaders and team members can distort reality to avoid taking responsibility. Chris emphasizes that true leadership is about shifting perspective from finding blame to seeking collaborative solutions, actionable ownership, and mutual understanding. This conversation not only explores the challenges of leadership but also inspires a broader dialogue about accountability, emotional intelligence, and leading with authenticity. By offering actionable advice and a compassionate perspective, Chris encourages leaders at all levels to reflect on their impacts, both personally and communally, in fostering a culture that prioritizes empathy over villainization.   Chris's Contact Information: LinkedIn: @chrisgillen Link to Book Website: The Villain Trap   Tacey's Contact Information: Website: taceyatkinson.com All Socials: @TaceyAtkinson   Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to having more valuable conversations together in the future. Remember: Customer-Centric Cultures Create Magical Customer Experiences. Now Go, Create the Magic!

How Smart Founders Get 5–100× Higher Business Exit Value John Ratliff On The Homefront Unlock the insider strategies behind maximizing your business exit — beyond just EBITDA multiples. In this in-depth Home Front interview, John Ratliff walks us through: Why most business owners sell for less than they deserve How to build with the ideal buyer persona in mind Structuring deals that attract “must‑have” buyers and unlock premium valuation Avoiding common exit mistakes (e.g., unprepared financials, single bidder, structure pitfalls) Culture-first leadership: treating frontline staff as your most important asset “Dream On” program insights: boosting morale, reducing turnover, and saving $ M Speaking your bold future into existence (strategic aim & painted picture) The power of community and masterminds for founder growth Perfect for founders, CEOs, and business changemakers serious about maximizing their exit and taking their company (and culture) to the next level. ⭐ Subscribe for more founder exit strategies & culture-first leadership insights. John Ratliff on LinkedIn Align5 

On this episode of The Association Podcast, industry veteran Ray Van Hilt, VP of Strategy at Yoko Co, joins the show to discuss UX strategies, effective content strategy, and the vital intersection between marketing and IT. Ray shares personal anecdotes from his career journey, such as working for Ringling Brothers and his experience within the association industry. The conversation dives into the importance of a user-centric approach to web design, the evolving role of AI in content strategy, and ways to foster a strong, inclusive company culture.

In this episode of the LeaderFactor Podcast, Junior and Dr. Tim Clark dive into the critical role alignment plays in team and organizational performance. They explore the two essential types of alignment—cognitive (shared understanding) and affective (emotional commitment)—and explain why both are necessary for achieving meaningful, sustainable results. You'll learn how to avoid common pitfalls, maintain alignment over time, and use five powerful questions to ensure your team is on the same page and fully committed. 

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Paul Johnson about why builder education is key to improving craftsmanship and raising the bar across the industry. Paul shares how his work with VELUX goes far beyond selling products — focusing instead on training, leadership, and building long-term relationships with tradespeople. From the role of manufacturer education to creating new opportunities for builders to grow their businesses, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, innovation, and elevating the craft.   Show Notes: Velux's Market Share and Installation Importance (0:00) Paul Johnson's Career Journey and Entrepreneurial Influence (14:24) Velux's Training Academy and Installer Engagement (16:06) The Importance of Skylights in Home Building (38:36) Unique Skylight Installations (40:15) Current and Favorite Projects (1:06:48) Career Path and Company Culture (1:08:48) Partnership and Training Opportunities (1:20:43) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/5LLSwFnrVYg   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media  

Katherine Robinette is the Owner and President of Keystone and Raven.   In this episode of Specified Growth Podcast, Katherine talks about her background in both theater and marketing, and how they've helped her in her current position. She also discusses building trusted relationships with your clients, her tips to taking the slog out of work and having a strong company culture, putting together effective change management teams, and more. Don't miss this episode of Specified Growth Podcast!     Please reach out if you have any feedback or questions. Enjoy!    Twitter: @TatsuyaNakagawa Instagram: @tats_talks LinkedIn: Tatsuya Nakagawa  YouTube: Tats Talks www.tatstalk.com www.castagra.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SummaryIn this episode, Jack Clabby and Kayley Melton discuss their conversation with Reginald Andre, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of ARK Solvers. They explore themes of mentorship, the evolution of cybersecurity businesses, the impact of AI, team culture, and community engagement. Andre shares his journey from aspiring English teacher to successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and personal growth in the cybersecurity field. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of mentorship, innovative teaching methods, and the role of AI in personal and professional development. They share personal anecdotes about mentoring students and children, emphasizing hands-on learning and real-world applications. The discussion also touches on the fun and insightful lifestyle polygraph segment, where the guest answers quirky questions that reveal his personality and approach to challenges.TakeawaysAndre is a natural mentor who emphasizes actionable advice.The importance of building a fantasy board of directors.Reginald's journey from CompUSA to CEO of ARK Solvers.The shift from IT to cybersecurity in business.AI's growing role in cybersecurity and business efficiency.Hiring based on personality and cultural fit over technical skills.Encouraging a culture of learning from mistakes.The impact of community engagement on personal growth.The significance of mentorship in shaping careers.Raising awareness on critical social issues like human trafficking. Mentorship can significantly impact a student's career trajectory.Hands-on learning is more effective than traditional lectures.Building a resume starts with taking initiative in school activities.AI can serve as a valuable tool for decision-making and mentorship.Creating a community around learning can enhance educational experiences.Students should actively seek internships and opportunities before graduation.Innovative teaching methods can fill gaps in traditional education systems.Personal anecdotes can illustrate the effectiveness of mentorship.Engaging with technology early can lead to better career prospects.Networking and building relationships are crucial for professional growth.TitlesMentorship in Cybersecurity: Lessons from Reginald AndreThe Evolution of Cybersecurity: From IT to AIBuilding a Strong Team Culture in CybersecurityCommunity Engagement: Making a Difference Beyond BusinessSound Bites"Andre is such a natural mentor.""I built my fantasy board of directors.""I had to pivot my business.""AI is not going to take your job.""I always leave him with something.""He was actually building his resume.""Everything has to be hands-on.""I would do Too Fast Too Furious.""You'd be tasked with AI education."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Mentorship01:56 The Journey of Reginald Andre05:58 From IT to Cybersecurity: A Business Evolution11:55 The Impact of AI on Cybersecurity17:52 Building a Strong Team Culture22:05 Community Engagement and Personal Growth27:39 Mentorship and Impact30:21 Innovative Teaching Approaches34:04 Lifestyle Polygraph: Fun and Insightful Questions

In times of uncertainty, knowing what your business is worth—and how to protect or grow that value—can feel elusive. You are never sure what business you are really in. What should you do? How can you retain the value you have created and prepare for the next growth phase, or even the exit strategy? On this recent episode of On the Brink with Andi Simon, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dave Bookbinder. Dave is a business valuation expert whose groundbreaking work focuses on an often-overlooked truth: your people are your most valuable asset. Dave, the author of The New ROI: Return on Individuals, joined me to unpack how business owners can better understand, manage, and maximize the value of their companies—especially in a rapidly changing business environment. His key message? Valuation isn't just a number. It's a reflection of leadership, culture, and strategic clarity. Let me repeat that:  Your business's value is a reflection of leadership, culture, and strategic clarity. What can Dave teach you about how to build and protect that value? The Human Side of Valuation Dave's experience spans thousands of valuation engagements across industries. And while balance sheets highlight assets like patents and trademarks, human capital rarely makes the cut. “Every CEO says their people are their most valuable asset,” Dave points out, “but where do they show up on the balance sheet? They don't.” That gap sparked his first book, The New ROI, which explores the critical link between culture, engagement, and enterprise value. His second, The New ROI: Going Behind the Numbers, draws from his award-winning podcast, Behind the Numbers, which focuses on how leadership and culture truly impact business performance. You will totally enjoy watching our video of the podcast here. Common Valuation Mistakes Dave shared some of the biggest pitfalls business owners face when it comes to valuing their company: Relying on rules of thumb: “Back-of-the-napkin” valuations based on hearsay can be wildly misleading. Dave recounted a client who declined a generous acquisition offer assuming better ones would follow. Years later, the business couldn't command even half that valuation. Tax-driven financials: Many entrepreneurs minimize income to reduce taxes, only to struggle during a sale. Buyers don't take your word for “adjusted EBITDA”—they want clean, auditable numbers. Unrealistic projections: Over-optimistic forecasts, especially those shaped like a hockey stick, often destroy credibility with buyers. “They're buying the future,” Dave says. “And if your projections seem disconnected from market realities, they'll discount for risk.” De-Risking Your Business to Maximize Value Buyers and investors are risk-averse. That's why Dave emphasizes the need to "de-risk" your business: Clean financial statements: Avoid running personal expenses through the business. Have your books reviewed or audited by a CPA. Strong management team: If the business can't run without you, it's not scalable—or sellable. Documented processes: Institutional knowledge should live in systems, not just in people's heads. “If your business can't survive you getting hit by a bus,” Dave quips, “you don't have a sellable business.” Exit Planning is a Process, Not an Event Whether you're transferring ownership to a family member or preparing for an acquisition, Dave urges owners to think ahead. “Selling a business is like selling a house,” he explains. “You need to get an appraisal, clean it up, and understand what similar businesses are selling for.” He also warned that poorly integrated acquisitions often fail—not due to valuation issues, but because of clashing cultures. “Seventy-five to ninety percent of deals miss their synergy targets because they ignore people and culture,” he says. Why Culture is Core to Company Value As a corporate anthropologist, I know firsthand how culture shapes performance. Dave agrees. “It's not that successful companies have a good culture—it's that good culture drives success,” he said. When leaders overlook how work gets done—or try to impose a new cultural model without understanding the old one—they risk alienating key people and destroying value. Culture is the operating system of the business. Your People Are Your Value Dave's work offers a refreshing, human-centric view of business valuation. Whether you're growing, planning an exit, or considering acquisitions, the lesson is clear: your people, your culture, and your credibility are the real ROI. If you're curious to learn more, check out Dave's books on Amazon: The New ROI: Return on Individuals The New ROI: Going Behind the Numbers The Valuation Toolbox for Business Owners and Their Advisors And tune into his award-winning podcast, Behind the Numbers. Final Thought In today's volatile market, it's not just about numbers—it's about narratives. The story you tell buyers, investors, or the next generation about your company must be grounded in reality, powered by culture, and led by people who are truly your greatest asset. To reach David Bookbinder and read his books: Dave's Profile: linkedin.com/in/davebookbinder Websites: linktr.ee/BehindTheNumbers (Portfolio) NEWROI.com (Personal) amazon.com/Dave-Bookbinder/e/B075SDJ12F (Portfolio) Email: davebookbinder@gmail.com Listen to these other podcasts or read the blogs about them: 435: Navigating the Management Maze: Tips for New Leaders  433: Organizations Must Embrace Human-Centric Design 430: How Does Dr. Chris Fuzie Create Great Leaders? Connect with me: Website: www.simonassociates.net Email: info@simonassociates.net Books:  Learn more about these books here: Rethink: Smashing the Myths of Women in Business Women Mean Business On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights Listen + Subscribe: Available wherever you get your podcasts—Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube, and more. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share with someone navigating their own leadership journey. Reach out and contact us if you want to see how a little anthropology can help your business grow.  Let's Talk! From Observation to Innovation, Andi Simon, PhD CEO | Corporate Anthropologist | Author Simonassociates.net Info@simonassociates.net @simonandi LinkedIn    

Too many companies treat their core values like wall art – nice to look at, easy to ignore. In this episode, Brad sits down with Robert Glazer to explore how to make core values real in the day-to-day, not just on paper. Robert is the founder of Acceleration Partners, a global affiliate marketing agency he scaled to multi-eight figures with a fully remote team of 300+ people across 40 countries. He brought on a private equity firm, took some money off the table, and now serves as chairman of the board. He's also a bestselling author and a recognized expert in values-based leadership and company culture. In this conversation, Robert shares why values should guide every decision – from who you hire and fire to how you handle a million-dollar client who crosses the line. (Spoiler: he let the client go.) He also breaks down his Open Transition Program, an alternative to the two-week notice that prioritizes transparency and dignity on the way out, not just on the way in. From there, the conversation moves into the evolution of affiliate marketing, the structure behind high-performing remote teams, and how to grow under private equity without losing what matters. If you care about scaling with integrity, this one's worth your time. Tune in now!  — This episode is part of the 8FE (8-figure entrepreneur) series, where we talk to entrepreneurs who have already passed the million-dollar mark.  — Key Takeaways: 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:01 Making company values actionable beyond just wall art 00:09:56 Embedding values into hiring, firing, and promotion systems 00:21:14 Turning down a $1M client for violating core values 00:24:58 Remote work demands freedom paired with accountability 00:31:09 Team dynamics in remote settings 00:40:50 Open Transition Program as an alternative to a two-week notice 00:45:58 Capacity Building framework (spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional) 00:49:27 Challenges in affiliate marketing  00:59:15 Navigating private equity deals with a long-term mindset 01:09:05 Outro — Additional Resources:

Naylor shares a portion of Marvin Salcido's presentation about how important company culture is and how to create it in your business. Marvin's Full talk Free download here! Thanks for Listening! EVENTS: YouTube Rally 2025 Free Registration 2025 LCR Summit Louisville KY Tickets ON SALE NOW! 2025 Equip Expo 50% off Registration with code LCR PODCAST SPONSOR: Click here for Toro Offer! RESOURCES: Proper Watering Templates Route Density System Download the 5 Costly Mistakes In Business Here! Click this link for Toro Horizon 360 info *THANK YOU TO THE TORO COMPANY FOR SPONSORING THE LCR MEDIA PODCAST  

Title: The Culture Shift: Rebuilding Workplace Well-Being Before It's Too LateHost: Allison Dunn, Business Coach & Founder of Deliberate DirectionsTopics Covered:Why Monday dread is a red flag for cultureThe “silent crisis” behind burnout, disengagement, and quiet quittingA coaching story of a founder on the brink—and what it revealsGallup data and global trends showing we're missing the markThree actionable culture-first leadership moves:Measure what actually matters with energy auditsMake mental health operational—not optionalTie purpose to performance through meaningful storytellingThe Deliberate Leader's Compass: Are you building a place that truly works?Quotes to Share:“Culture doesn't live in data—it lives in dialogue.”“A paycheck doesn't build culture. A ping doesn't replace presence.”“If your workplace feels tired—it's not just the workload. It's the why load.”Resources:Want to explore your company's cultural compass? Book a complimentary strategy session.Subscribe to the podcast for more episodes on intentional leadership.Share this episode with a leader who needs to hear it.

My guest today is John Zito. John is the Co-President of Apollo Global Management. He shares how they've quietly built one of the most important financial institutions of our time, originating over $250 billion annually. John's thesis on the convergence of private and public markets - and Apollo's positioning to capture 100% of client portfolios rather than just alternatives allocations - offers a fascinating glimpse into where institutional investing is heading. We discuss the cultural and strategic elements that drive John, Apollo's merger with Athene, the idea of artistry at scale, and the evolution of capital markets. Please enjoy my conversation with John Zito.  For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page⁠⁠⁠ here.⁠⁠⁠ ----- This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠ Ramp⁠⁠⁠. Ramp's mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Go to⁠⁠⁠ Ramp.com/invest⁠⁠⁠ to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. – This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ridgeline⁠⁠⁠⁠. Ridgeline has built a complete, real-time, modern operating system for investment managers. It handles trading, portfolio management, compliance, customer reporting, and much more through an all-in-one real-time cloud platform. Head to⁠⁠⁠⁠ ridgelineapps.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ to learn more about the platform. –  This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠⁠ AlphaSense⁠⁠⁠. AlphaSense has completely transformed the research process with cutting-edge AI technology and a vast collection of top-tier, reliable business content. Invest Like the Best listeners can get a free trial now at⁠⁠⁠ Alpha-Sense.com/Invest⁠⁠⁠ and experience firsthand how AlphaSense and Tegus help you make smarter decisions faster. ----- Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠⁠). Show Notes: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like the Best (00:05:55) The Rise of Apollo and Credit Markets (00:08:05) Innovations in Asset Management (00:11:42) The Role of the US in Global Capital Markets (00:15:26) The Future of Asset Management and Investment Strategies (00:21:03) The Impact of Interest Rates on Investment (00:25:27) Apollo's Business Model and Growth (00:25:17) The Changing Landscape of Private Markets (00:46:03) Apollo's Culture and Vision (00:47:54) The Importance of Company Culture (00:52:52) The Future of Private and Public Markets (00:57:50) Building a Great Origination Platform (01:02:03) Exciting Deals and Personal Stories (01:14:47) The Role of AI and Future Opportunities (01:22:16) Maintaining Company Culture Amidst Change (01:24:06) The Kindest Thing Anyone Has Ever Done For John

“They all hate you.” That's what a young David Bishop heard from his regional manager, and it turned his view of leadership on its head. If you've ever questioned your leadership style or wondered why your team isn't as aligned as they could be, this episode is packed with insights that will shift how you think about growth. David Bishop is a top executive coach to leaders at companies like Netflix, Google, and Amazon. Before that, he ran two global media giants as President of Sony Pictures and MGM Home Entertainment.  Leading Through People, Not Just Performance David unpacks the personal stories and pivotal moments that shaped his leadership—from managing a record store to launching game-changing products like DVD and Blu-ray. He explains why creating a culture of engagement isn't just good ethics, it's smart business. When people feel safe, aligned, and invested, performance and profit follow. Why Culture Can't Be Left to Chance You'll learn why engagement surveys aren't just for HR, and how David helps leadership teams turn feedback into real behavioral shifts. He breaks down his process for aligning teams, measuring values, and moving founders from “do-it-all” mode into strategic leadership. If you're building something bigger than yourself, this episode offers a playbook for doing it with more clarity, alignment, and impact. Enjoy this episode with David Bishop... Soundbytes 08:18 - 08:38 “I learned that if you have people who are really invigorated to come to work and they feel they can do that in a psychologically safe environment, and they can contribute, then profits go up.” 11:36 - 12:13 “It's important to have the distinction of having a happy workplace versus an engaged workplace… People can come in and be with their friends and be happy, but not be productive. But what I look for in a culture, in a team, is high levels of engagement. Where people spring out of bed in the morning and really feel that they are working for a common purpose.” 35:01 - 35:18 “It's not just about the product or the services that you're selling, or about the consumers. Of course the end user is really important, but people often look over the culture.” Quotes “If you want to change a culture, measure it.” “My approach to leading people was always about creating an environment of high engagement.” Links mentioned in this episode: From Our Guest Website: https://thedavidbishopgroup.com/  Connect with David Bishop on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedavidbishopgroup/  Connect with brandiD Download our free guide to learn 16 crucial website updates that attract more leads and convert visitors into clients: https://thebrandid.com/website-tweaks/ Ready to elevate your digital presence with a powerful brand or website?  Contact us here: https://thebrandid.com/contact-form/

Episode 93.  What's an agency business and what do you do after building one to 100 people and then selling? Retire?In this episode of the Lifetime at Work podcast, host Greg Martin interviews John Ghiorso, founder of Orca Pacific, an Amazon media agency, which he successfully built and sold. John shares his journey from an accidental agency owner to a seasoned entrepreneur now setting up a venture studio model to launch multiple niche-focused marketing agencies. Key topics include the dynamics of running and scaling agencies, the importance of aligning company values, the impact of AI on agency businesses, and strategies for hiring and retaining top talent.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:23 John's Agency Journey01:30 Understanding the Agency Business03:12 Starting and Scaling an Agency05:28 Retirement and New Ventures08:10 Hiring and Retaining Talent12:32 Company Culture and Values19:12 Deciding to Sell the Business22:09 Personal and Market-Based Reasons for Selling23:01 Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Amazon Agencies24:41 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Strategy25:27 The Acquisition Process and Choosing the Right Partner26:49 Life After Acquisition: Working with Media Monks29:11 Reflections on Entrepreneurship and Leadership31:23 Advice for Aspiring Agency Professionals34:32 The Future of Agencies in an AI-Driven World43:31 Key Traits for Successful Agency Leaders46:56 Resources and Final Thoughts

On today's episode, Andy answers live call-in questions on how to handle hater comments as an ambitious teenager, how to trust yourself more than other people's opinions, and what steps to take to correct company culture when you have older employees who are set in their ways.