Podcasts about Competitive advantage

Business concept that an organization outperforms competition in some regard

  • 2,077PODCASTS
  • 3,348EPISODES
  • 32mAVG DURATION
  • 1DAILY NEW EPISODE
  • Oct 27, 2025LATEST

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024

Categories



Best podcasts about Competitive advantage

Show all podcasts related to competitive advantage

Latest podcast episodes about Competitive advantage

Impact Pricing
Why Efficiency, Not AI, Is the Real Competitive Advantage in Pricing with Lindsay Maurer

Impact Pricing

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 31:08


Lindsay Maurer is Pricing Intervention Manager at BP. With 14 years of experience in product management and pricing, she reveals how she achieved a 13% profit gain despite a 16% revenue drop, and why she believes “the dumbest guy in the market sets the price.” In this episode, Lindsay and Mark Stiving discuss regional pricing strategies, ethical competitive intelligence, and the power of price signals in the market. They explore what defines a pricing leader versus a follower, why clean data matters more than fancy tools, and why AI can't fix bad pricing fundamentals. Whether you work in pricing, lead a team, or simply want to understand how pricing shapes business strategy, this episode offers practical, real-world insights you can use right away.   Why You Have to Check Out Today's Podcast: Learn how to build regional pricing strategies that adapt to local competition and customer behavior. Discover smart, ethical ways to track competitors using tools like Circana data and web scraping. Understand why clean data and efficient processes matter more than any pricing technology.   "It doesn't matter how much technology you throw at bad data — it's not going to fix your pricing strategy." – Lindsay Maurer   Topics Covered: 02:50 - Getting into Pricing: How Lindsay's career began and what got her hooked on pricing strategy. 06:10 - Inside the Role: What a Pricing Intervention Manager does - from fixing revenue leaks to supporting teams across the Americas. 12:15 - Market Dynamics: Why “the dumbest guy in the market sets the price” and how smart companies protect their margins. 15:08 - Retail Pricing: How retailers test price floors and ceilings, monitor competitors, and manage customer perceptions. 17:31 - Price Leadership: What makes a company a price leader versus a follower, and how market factors like tariffs shape decisions. 20:17 - Competitor Insights: How often to track prices in different industries and how to ethically gather market data. 25:01 - Strengthening Pricing Teams: Why efficient tools, clean data, and solid processes matter more than fancy systems. 28:25 - AI in Pricing: Where AI fits today, what it can and can't do, and how to use it for smarter market insights. 29:57 - Pricing Community: Lindsay's call for collaboration - connecting with other pricing professionals and sharing tools.   Key Takeaways: "The dumbest guy in the market sets the price. If you have someone that has products that they can go and sell for half the price of yours, well, you're also taking out half the price of everyone's margin, but also your own." - Lindsay Maurer "Make sure you've got great information coming in. Make sure that you're doing anything you can do with it as efficiently as possible so that when you do get those quotes and you do get those quick turnaround requests for sales that you can price quickly and you don't lose business due to inefficiency." - Lindsay Maurer   People / Resources Mentioned: Al Beck: Al Beck: Pricing Director at Standard Motor Products https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderkbeck/  Circana (formerly NPD): https://www.circana.com Ficstar: https://www.ficstar.com/  Import.io: https://www.import.io/  SVP Recruiting: Organizer of Pricing Week conference https://svpricing.com/pricing-week    Connect with Lindsay Maurer: Website: https://www.bp.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaymaurer/    Connect with Mark Stiving: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiving/ Email: mark@impactpricing.com  

The Lazy CEO Podcast
Ai Disruption: How AI is Disrupting The Fashion Industry

The Lazy CEO Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 30:57


Are you ready for the AI disruption that's changing not just how you market—but how you show up as a leader? AI disruption isn't just shaking up industries—it's redefining how executives connect with customers, present themselves, and make smarter business decisions. In this episode, you'll learn how embracing AI-driven innovation can help you stand out, streamline your work, and future-proof your brand in a rapidly evolving digital world. You'll discover: How to turn your company's unique data into a lasting competitive edge in the era of AI disruption. The power of blending personal style with technology to project confidence and save time. Real-world examples of how AI is transforming marketing, customer feedback, and even product design. Tune in now to hear how forward-thinking CEOs are navigating AI disruption with confidence—and how you can use these insights to stay sharp, efficient, and ahead of the curve. Check out: [08:15] — The Real Source of Competitive Advantage in the AI Era Anya breaks down why unique data—not algorithms—is what gives companies an edge in the age of AI disruption. She shares examples from industries like dentistry and fashion to show how data becomes the real differentiator. [24:40] — Reinventing the Clothing Industry Through Circular, AI-Driven Design The discussion shifts to how Taelor's rental model leverages AI and feedback loops to reduce waste, personalize experiences, and help brands rethink "ownership." It's a great example of circular economy principles meeting digital innovation. [45:10] — How to Win at AI Search and Content Strategy Anya reveals how her team beat GQ and other big names to the top of AI search rankings by combining human creativity with AI-generated content—a must-listen for marketers navigating the changing landscape of SEO and ChatGPT-driven discovery. About Anya Cheng Anya Cheng is the Founder and CEO of Taelor, a leading men's clothing subscription service that provides personal styling and curated rentals, powered by expert stylists and AI. A Girls in Tech 40 Under 40 honoree, she previously led eCommerce and digital innovation teams at Meta, eBay, Target, and McDonald's.

Boosting Your Financial IQ
Does Your Business Really Need a Strategy? (Yes, Here's Why) | Ep 194

Boosting Your Financial IQ

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 10:48 Transcription Available


Not sure what your numbers are telling you? Get a free review: coltivar.com/financial-review Every business has a strategy, even if it's not written down.The real question is whether yours is working. In this episode, Steve explains what strategy actually is, why every company needs one, and how to identify the strategic problem that's holding your business back. He shares a simple framework for making better decisions, keeping your customer at the center, and connecting strategy to financial results so your growth actually pays off. If you've ever wondered whether you need a strategy, this episode will give you the answer._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Sales For The Nigerian Wedding Industry
Quick, Quick, Quick: The Competitive Advantage of Recency in Nigerian Sales

Sales For The Nigerian Wedding Industry

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2025 22:13


Quick, Quick, Quick: The Competitive Advantage of Recency in Nigerian Sales

Wise Decision Maker Show
#359: How DIY AI Unlocks Productivity and Flexibility

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 1:56


Flexible work will thrive through empowerment, not office layouts. DIY AI—where employees build their own tools—turns flexibility into performance, boosting productivity, balance, and innovation across distributed teams. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about how DIY AI unlocks productivity and flexibility.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/how-diy-ai-unlocks-productivity-and-flexibility/

New Books Network
Robert C. Bird, "Legal Knowledge in Organizations: A Source of Strategic and Competitive Advantage" (Cambridge UP, 2025)

New Books Network

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 59:26


Legal Knowledge in Organizations: A Source of Strategic and Competitive Advantage (Cambridge UP, 2025) offers a step-by-step guide on how to utilize the law as a source of value in organizations. Robert C. Bird demonstrates how legal knowledge can be a valuable asset for firms, providing them with a sustainable competitive advantage that is difficult for rivals to imitate. Bird presents a five-part framework that outlines how firms can use legal knowledge in competitive markets and how they can avoid misusing it. Chapters also highlight how firms can cultivate legal knowledge and apply novel risk tools to overcome unexpected legal threats. The book emphasizes the importance of ethical values in business decisions and shows how managers and lawyers can build an ethical practice of legal knowledge that benefits both business and society. With the help of numerous visuals, this book makes it easy for readers to leverage legal knowledge and apply it to specific business contexts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

New Books in Law
Robert C. Bird, "Legal Knowledge in Organizations: A Source of Strategic and Competitive Advantage" (Cambridge UP, 2025)

New Books in Law

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 59:26


Legal Knowledge in Organizations: A Source of Strategic and Competitive Advantage (Cambridge UP, 2025) offers a step-by-step guide on how to utilize the law as a source of value in organizations. Robert C. Bird demonstrates how legal knowledge can be a valuable asset for firms, providing them with a sustainable competitive advantage that is difficult for rivals to imitate. Bird presents a five-part framework that outlines how firms can use legal knowledge in competitive markets and how they can avoid misusing it. Chapters also highlight how firms can cultivate legal knowledge and apply novel risk tools to overcome unexpected legal threats. The book emphasizes the importance of ethical values in business decisions and shows how managers and lawyers can build an ethical practice of legal knowledge that benefits both business and society. With the help of numerous visuals, this book makes it easy for readers to leverage legal knowledge and apply it to specific business contexts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/law

Strategic Minds
Discovering Insights at the Edges

Strategic Minds

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 52:42


Discovering Insights at the Edges In this episode, Rich Horwath sits down with Dr. Rita McGrath, Columbia Business School professor and one of the world's foremost experts on strategy and innovation. Known for her books including, Discovery-Driven Growth, The End of Competitive Advantage and Seeing Around Corners, Dr. McGrath reveals how leaders can identify the early signals of change and shape organizations that thrive through disruption. From checkpoint-based planning to the power of systematic disengagement, Rita explains how today's most successful leaders move beyond rigid planning and instead experiment, learn, and adapt. She explores the value of leading indicators, resource reconfiguration, and discovering opportunity in emerging “arenas” rather than static industries. Together, Rich and Rita discuss why true strategic clarity demands courage—the willingness to stop doing what no longer serves and the foresight to invest in what could be.

Capitalist Culture
Culture Is Currency: How Steve Blair Turns Core Values into a Competitive Advantage

Capitalist Culture

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 65:34


I'm thrilled to share some incredible insights from our latest podcast episode featuring Steve Blair, Chief People Officer at Fulcrum Collective. With nearly three decades of experience at iconic companies like Procter & Gamble, Ghirardelli, and Harvest Group, Steve has a wealth of knowledge on building purpose-driven cultures. Here are some key takeaways that you won't want to miss:Key Lessons and Ideas:  • Culture as the Foundation: Steve emphasizes that culture isn't a side function but the very bedrock of any successful company. It's the compass guiding every decision, from hiring to client selection.  • Authentic Core Values: Clear, authentic, aspirational, and unique values are crucial. They should genuinely reflect the company's identity and serve as a guiding lens for all business decisions.  • Scaling Culture: Steve shares his experience scaling Harvest Group from 25 to nearly 300 employees across multiple locations. He highlights the importance of adapting culture to different geographies while maintaining core values.  • Data-Driven Culture: Using HR metrics to measure culture and engagement can prove that a healthy culture scales effectively and positively impacts employees, clients, and customers.  • Leadership and Culture: Immediate managers play a pivotal role in reinforcing culture daily. Their authenticity and alignment with company values are crucial for a cohesive work environment.Curiosities and Insights:  • Unique Values: At Harvest Group, values like “journey” emphasized growth and joy in personal and professional development, making their culture stand out.  • Cultural Adaptation: Opening an office in Tunisia required thoughtful integration of local cultural dynamics, proving that culture doesn't simply “lift and drop.”  • WALLA Approach: Steve's leadership tool—Wonder, Ask, Listen, and Act—creates a reliable rhythm of engagement and responsiveness, leading to continuous improvement in employee satisfaction.Practical Tips:  • Storytelling: Regularly sharing stories about living the company's values helps new employees quickly absorb the culture.  • People Leader Lab: A monthly program to invest in and equip immediate managers, ensuring they embody the company's values and foster a strong culture.  • Simplified Goal Setting: Steve's approach to goal setting includes four clear types: Deliver, Accelerate, Innovate, and Grow, making it accessible and effective.Personal Reflections:  • Defining Success: For Steve, success is about helping people find meaningful, fulfilling work that aligns with their values. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of intentional leadership and culture.I hope these highlights spark your curiosity and inspire you to listen to the full episode. Steve's insights are not just theoretical—they're practical, actionable, and deeply rooted in real-world experience.Stay tuned for more episodes where we dive into the heart of what makes great companies thrive. And as always, I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on building and sustaining a strong organizational culture.P.S. Don't forget to check out the full episode for more in-depth discussions and actionable strategies!Send us a textConnect with Kip on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kipknippel/Watch Bite-Sized Clips on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@capitalistculture/shorts

Irish Tech News Audio Articles
AI: Your Next Competitive Advantage in the Workplace

Irish Tech News Audio Articles

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 5:59


Guest post by Annika Bizon VP of Product and Marketing at Samsung UK&I AI is no longer a futuristic concept - it is here and has started changing the workplace and its practices irrevocably. Whether you are in finance, marketing, engineering, or customer service, AI offers a powerful toolset that can drive productivity, streamline processes, dive deeper into data and unlock new opportunities. There are those who will embrace the change, others who will be closer to fearful. It is important to understand that while the fear is not necessarily groundless, there is a new mantra: AI won't take your job, but someone who knows how to use AI effectively, might now have the edge. The competitive landscape is different, so, it's time to start understanding and leaning into these new capabilities. AI as an Enabler The misconception that AI will replace human jobs overlooks its true potential: augmentation rather than replacement. AI is best leveraged as an assistant, supporting professionals in handling repetitive tasks, analysing vast amounts of data, and generating insights that enhance decision-making. Recent research carried out by Samsung Ireland, undertaken by 3Gem, showed that virtually all (98%) managers feel that AI can make their job easier, with around three-fifths feeling it could automate administrative or mundane tasks, freeing up their time for more productivity. The research also showed that the AI features that 52% of managers are most excited about are those where AI acts as a personal assistant, reducing mundane tasks and improving overall efficiencies in our day-to-day. For instance, AI-powered tools that automate administrative work such as scheduling meetings, summarising data and transcribing notes, free employees up to focus on strategic initiatives and projects. In creative fields, AI assists with idea generation, enabling professionals to refine and elevate their work rather than replace their role altogether. The key is to harness AI's capabilities to become more efficient, innovative, and valuable in your profession. For example, a graphic designer might use AI tools to generate multiple concept drafts based on a client brief, then refine and customise the best one using their own artistic judgment. The opportunity here is to capitalise on AI to become more efficient, innovative, and valuable in your profession. Practical Ways to Integrate AI into Your Work You don't have to be a data scientist to use AI, most of the tools that are now coming to market are designed to be used by anyone and everyone; you just have to understand the capabilities of any given one. What are the right questions/prompts? Which tool works best for the task at hand? It is just a matter of learning how best to use it to your own advantage. Here are some practical ways that professionals can use AI to enhance their jobs: • Automate Repetitive Tasks: AI can handle mundane activities like scheduling meetings, data entry, or sorting emails, giving professionals more time to focus on high-value work. • Enhance Decision-Making: AI-driven analytics tools provide actionable insights that help professionals make informed choices faster and with greater accuracy. • Boost Creativity and Productivity: From AI-powered content generators to smart design tools, professionals in marketing, design, and communications can speed up idea development and execution. • Upskill with AI Tools: Platforms like Gemini 2.0 or AI-powered CRM systems enable professionals to refine their skills, from coding to content writing, making them more competitive in the job market. • Data analysis: Because sometimes, AI tools can pull out insights that you didn't think to look for - I would note that this is not just about numbers and spreadsheets. Feed your CV into something like NotebookLM and read/listen to the results, it can be fascinating. AI and Ireland's Innovation Agenda Ireland has positioned itself as a global technology hub, attracting investment from the wor...

The FIT4PRIVACY Podcast - For those who care about privacy
Why does EU AI Act matter in your business?

The FIT4PRIVACY Podcast - For those who care about privacy

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 1:59


In this episode of the Fit4Privacy Podcast, host Punit Bhatia explores the EU AI Act— why it matters, what it requires, and how it impacts your business, even outside the EU.You will also hear about the Act's risk-based approach, the four categories of AI systems (unacceptable, high, limited, and minimal risk), and the penalties for non-compliance, which can be as high as 7% of global turnover or €35 million.Just like GDPR, the EU AI Act has global reach—so if your company offers AI-based products or services to EU citizens, it applies to you. Listen in to understand the requirements and discover how to turn AI compliance into an opportunity for building trust, demonstrating responsibility, and staying ahead of the competition.KEY CONVERSION 00:00:00 Introduction to the EU AI Act 00:01:22 Why the EU AI Act Matters to Your Business 00:03:40 Risk Categories Under the EU AI Act 00:04:52 Key Timelines and Provisions 00:06:07 Compliance Requirements 00:07:09 Leveraging the EU AI Act for Competitive Advantage 00:08:38 Conclusion and Contact Information  ABOUT HOST Punit Bhatia is one of the leading privacy experts who works independently and has worked with professionals in over 30 countries. Punit works with business and privacy leaders to create an organization culture with high privacy awareness and compliance as a business priority. Selectively, Punit is open to mentor and coach professionals.  Punit is the author of books “Be Ready for GDPR' which was rated as the best GDPR Book, “AI & Privacy – How to Find Balance”, “Intro To GDPR”, and “Be an Effective DPO”. Punit is a global speaker who has spoken at over 30 global events. Punit is the creator and host of the FIT4PRIVACY Podcast. This podcast has been featured amongst top GDPR and privacy podcasts.  As a person, Punit is an avid thinker and believes in thinking, believing, and acting in line with one's value to have joy in life. He has developed the philosophy named ‘ABC for joy of life' which he passionately shares. Punit is based out of Belgium, the heart of Europe.  RESOURCES Websites www.fit4privacy.com,www.punitbhatia.com Podcast https://www.fit4privacy.com/podcast Blog https://www.fit4privacy.com/blog YouTube http://youtube.com/fit4privacy 

The Synopsis
Company. APi Global: The B2B Service Giant Consolidator

The Synopsis

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 102:29


In this Company episode of The Synopsis we talk about APi Global, a high quality B2B service provider that specializes in fire safety and other important business service verticals. The company has been undergoing a transition by eschewing one-off construction projects and moving to more recurring and higher margin service revenue. In this episode we draw from our 61-page research report on APi Global to cover everything from their involvement with legendary investor Martin Franklin and the business transformation to the many types of services they offer and the large competition set they face. We hope you enjoy!  **Learn more about our 61-page report here** For full access to all of our in-depth research reports, become a Speedwell Member here.  If you need help getting Speedwell Research to become an approved research vendor, so you can expense your subscription, please email info@speedwellresearch.com  *~*~*~* -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Show Notes ~Section 1: Business History~ (0:00)  — Intro (6:22)  — Martin Franklin and The History of APi Group (13:12)  — Leading With Inspections (24:16)  — Smaller Project Focus and M&A (28:18)  — Chubb Acquisition and Improving Service Mix ~Section 2: Business Background~ (34:40)  — Revenue Segment Breakdown (42:15)  — The Shift to Recurring Revenues (45:50)  — Profitability ~Section 3: Industry and Competition~ (48:00)  — Industry and T.A.M (50:31)  — Competition and Competitive Advantages (1:05:00)  — APi Group Model and Industry Dynamics ~Section 4: Capital Allocation, Risk, and Valuation~ (1:26:05)  — Capital Allocation, FCF Conversion, and ROIC (1:34:35)  — Preferred Shares and Insider Ownership (1:36:06)  — Reverse DCF Valuation  (1:38:20)  — Risks (1:41:50)  — Outro -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Become a Speedwell Member here to gain access to *all* of our in-depth research reports and more!   Sign up for Speedwell's free newsletter and weekly memos here *-*-*- Follow Us: Twitter: @Speedwell_LLC Threads: @speedwell_research Email us at info@speedwellresearch.com for any questions, comments, or feedback. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Disclaimer Nothing in this podcast is investment advice nor should be construed as such. Contributors to the podcast may own securities discussed. Furthermore, accounts contributors advise on may also have positions in companies discussed. At the time of recording contributors had a position in APG. Furthermore, accounts contributors advise on also may have  a position in APG. This may change without notice. Please see our full disclaimers here:  https://speedwellresearch.com/disclaimer/

Wise Decision Maker Show
#358: Why Gen AI Fails Without Focus—and How to Fix It

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 4:27


AI fails when goals are unclear—success comes from aligning Gen AI with business priorities, setting measurable outcomes, and balancing structure with flexibility to turn innovation into impact. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which discusses why Gen AI fails without focus—and how to fix it.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/why-gen-ai-fails-without-focus-and-how-to-fix-it/

The Positive Leadership Podcast
Rita McGrath – Seeing Around Corners: Leading Through Uncertainty

The Positive Leadership Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 84:51


What if the biggest risk in leadership wasn't failure — but success that blinds us to change? In this episode of the Positive Leadership Podcast, I had the great pleasure of welcoming Rita McGrath, one of the world's most influential voices on strategy and innovation. A professor at Columbia Business School and author of The End of Competitive Advantage, Discovery-Driven Growth, and Seeing Around Corners, Rita has transformed how leaders think about disruption, renewal, and adaptability. Together, we explore how to spot inflection points before they upend your business, why discovery-driven learning is the antidote to overconfidence, and how purpose and curiosity can keep teams resilient in uncertain times. Rita also shares a warning for today's executives: when companies rush to go fast and big in complex environments — without room to test and learn — it's almost always a recipe for disaster. From AI and education to human adaptability and leadership humility, this conversation will change the way you think about strategy in a world where advantage is always transient. 

VistaTalks
Turning Cross-Cultural Challenges into Competitive Advantage with Sylvia Gonner - VistaTalks Ep 180

VistaTalks

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 39:25


With over 70 countries visited, fluency in six languages, and a lifetime of cross-cultural experience, Sylvia Gonner, President of Culturewiz, is in discussion with VistaTalks Host Simon Hodgkins. Sylvia brings both authority and a practical perspective to the challenges of going global.About VistaTalks: VistaTalks has an incredible lineup of guests from around the globe. We love to feature interesting discussions with interesting people from all around the world. Follow VistaTalks on Spotify for all the latest episodes, or subscribe to the show on Apple and Google podcasts. VistaTalks is available on many other podcast platforms. To learn more about VistaTalks, please visit https://www.vistatalks.comSocial Media:X - https://x.com/vistatalks Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VistaTalks Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vistatalks LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/vistatalks

The Startup Podcast
Flow State: The Competitive Advantage You Need, And How To Harness It w/ Film Producer & Founder, Steven Puri

The Startup Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 50:38


What if your best work came from finding your flow, rather than simply grinding harder? In the age of constant distraction, many founders mistake busyness for progress, chasing notifications, meetings, and multitasking without realizing that true innovation happens when the mind is deeply focused.Today, Chris and Yaniv are joined by Steven Puri, former DreamWorks executive and founder of The Sukha, to unpack the science of flow state and why mastering it may be the ultimate founder advantage. From Hollywood film production to startup leadership, Steven shares how high performers sustain creativity and energy by designing their environments, schedules, and team cultures around deep work.They explore how to use neuroscience, rhythm, and intentional structure to unlock focus, eliminate context switching, and help your team reach peak performance without burnout.In this episode, you will:Understand flow state, and how it fuels both productivity and creativityIdentify common barriers preventing founders from achieving deep focusLearn how to structure your day around your natural chronotype for maximum energyImplement practical tools and mental environments that enable sustained concentrationExplore how to build company cultures that protect “maker time” and empower deep work across teamsAdopt sustainable rhythms that increase output while avoiding founder burnoutFind Steven on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-puriLearn more about Sukha: https://www.thesukha.co The Pact Honor the Startup Podcast Pact! If you have listened to TSP and gotten value from it, please:Follow, rate, and review us in your listening appSubscribe to the TSP Mailing List to gain access to exclusive newsletter-only content and early access to information on upcoming episodes: https://thestartuppodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe Secure your official TSP merchandise at https://shop.tsp.show/  Follow us here on YouTube for full-video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNjm1MTdjysRRV07fSf0yGg Give us a public shout-out on LinkedIn or anywhere you have a social media followingKey linksGet your question in for our next Q&A episode: https://forms.gle/NZzgNWVLiFmwvFA2A The Startup Podcast website: https://www.tsp.show/episodes/Learn more about Chris and YanivWork 1:1 with Chris: http://chrissaad.com/advisory/  Follow Chris on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissaad/  Follow Yaniv on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ybernstein/Producer: Justin McArthur https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcarthurIntro Voice: Jeremiah Owyang https://web-strategist.com/

Staying Connected
WAN Sustainability - from Compliance to Competitive Advantage

Staying Connected

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 9:28


Green networking, carbon accounting, and energy-efficient hardware are becoming increasingly important for enterprises seeking to comply with ESG regulations and drive competitive advantage. In this 9-minute podcast, Tony Mangino and Julie Gardner from TC2 discuss why WAN sustainability should be on every CIO and procurement leader's radar and how to include measurable sustainability requirements in your next WAN RFP to enable meaningful supplier evaluation and differentiation.  If you would like to learn more about our experience in this space, please visit our Strategic Sourcing and Technology Consulting & Strategy Development webpages.

Wise Decision Maker Show
#357: Why Organizations Should Shift from DEI to Data-Driven Decision-Making

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 4:45


Organizations are moving from DEI to data-driven decision-making, embedding fairness and transparency into everyday processes to reduce bias, build trust, and drive innovation without the political baggage of traditional DEI. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which discusses why organizations should shift from DEI to data-driven decision-making.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/why-organizations-should-shift-from-dei-to-data-driven-decision-making/

Making A Difference Podcast
The Secret To Your Competitive Advantage......

Making A Difference Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 11:38


Here is the AI generated discussion of my post, The Secret To Your Competitive Advantage.  A fascinating discussion diving into the human connection much more than I expected.  Enjoy! Here is the link to the original post:  https://partnersinexcellenceblog.com/the-secret-to-your-competitive-advantage/

Axiom Podcast - Axiom Strategic Consulting
165: Beyond Bookkeeping — How Outsourced Accounting Creates Clarity and Competitive Advantage (Axis Part 2 of 3)

Axiom Podcast - Axiom Strategic Consulting

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 36:48


In Part 2 of the Axis Series, Joey Brannon sits down with JoAnna Kelso, President of Axis Outsourced Accounting, to explore why outsourcing your accounting department delivers more than bookkeeping. From reducing the mental load of hiring and turnover, to leveraging weekly dashboards and cutting-edge tools, JoAnna explains how outsourcing transforms accounting into a strategic advantage. Learn how vendor and customer management, consistent categorization, and real-time clarity give business owners confidence and space to focus on growth.

Beyond The Prompt - How to use AI in your company
How Do You Strategize in the AI Era? – with Martin Reeves, Head of BCG's Think Tank

Beyond The Prompt - How to use AI in your company

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 66:01


Martin Reeves has spent decades advising CEOs on how to think about strategy. As head of BCG's Henderson Institute, he has built a career challenging leaders to balance efficiency with imagination and to prepare for the next disruptive shift.In this conversation, Martin tells Henrik and Jeremy why AI alone will not give companies an edge and might even strip them of advantage. He unpacks the “two jobs of business”: playing the current game better than anyone else while simultaneously asking what the next game will be. He argues that AI only sharpens this paradox, forcing leaders to think faster, experiment more, and draw on human imagination in new ways.The discussion covers the risks of over-optimization, the future of consulting, and the paradoxes of AI adoption. Along the way, Reeves explains how AI can accelerate exploration, why framing the right questions is the strategist's most important job, and why times of disruption are when number twos become number ones or disappear altogether.Key Takeaways: Strategy is the double gameLong-term success means playing today's game efficiently while also inventing tomorrow's. Henrik and Jeremy stress how rare it is for leaders to do both, yet this is exactly what AI demands.AI efficiency without imagination is a trapAdopting the same tools as competitors drives efficiency but commoditizes advantage. The hosts underline that imagination and unique use are what create real differentiation.The strategist's edge is asking the right questionMartin highlights that strategy starts with framing the real question. Henrik and Jeremy note that questioning and cognitive diversity are crucial in the AI era.Disruption reshuffles winners and losersTimes of change are when number twos become number ones and leaders disappear. The wrap-up emphasizes the urgency of experimenting and adapting now.Human imagination stays essentialAI can accelerate exploration, but creativity, ethics, and originality remain uniquely human — and decisive for future leadership.LinkedIn: Martin Reeves | LinkedInBCG Henderson Institute: Home - BCG Henderson InstituteMartins books: The Imagination Machine // Like: The Button That Changed the World00:00 Intro: Two Jobs in Strategy, Today's Game and Tomorrow's Game01:33 Martin Reeves and the Henderson Institute04:02 Defining Strategy in the AI Era05:12 AI and Human Imagination09:20 Efficiency vs. Competitive Advantage13:18 Organizational Design for the Future23:09 The Paradox of Imagination in Business33:02 Harnessing Serendipity for Innovation35:18 Devil's Advocacy and Meeting Optimization36:51 Where AI Helps and Hurts Organizations38:16 The Limits of AI Training Data42:56 How Martin Uses AI Day to Day47:09 What's the Next Game for Consulting53:15 Final Reflections

Wise Decision Maker Show
#356: Inside the Gen AI Workshops Sparking a Paradigm Shift

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 2:53


Gen AI workshops turn theory into action by immersing employees in real-world problem-solving, building confidence, sparking innovation, and driving results through hands-on learning. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about the Gen AI workshops sparking a paradigm shift.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/inside-the-gen-ai-workshops-sparking-a-paradigm-shift/

State Of Readiness
State of Readiness | Alan Michaels; Director of Industry Research at Industry Knowledge Graph

State Of Readiness

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 63:11


Video Version About the Podcast In this episode of State of Readiness, host Joseph Paris speaks with Alan Michaels, founder of the Industry Knowledge Graph, a strategic planning tool built on Michael Porter's competitive strategy framework. The discussion traces Alan's multi-decade journey to develop a globally comprehensive, highly granular industry taxonomy and its transformation into a usable, dynamic digital platform. Alan recalls the pivotal moment in 1986 when, while working in IT at Manufacturers Hanover Bank, he was introduced to Porter's Competitive Advantage. The structured, recipe-like nature of Porter's methodology resonated deeply with him, prompting a career pivot toward corporate strategy. Over time, Alan held various strategic roles, including at IBM and in insurance, but ultimately dedicated himself full-time to his ambitious goal: to map the entire global economy by industry, using Porter's definitions of competitive structure and market forces. The result, launched in April 2024, is the Industry Knowledge Graph, a platform that classifies the global economy into over 24,000 distinct industries, based on competitive commonalities such as products, buyers, substitutes, and vendors. This granularity far exceeds traditional classifications like NAICS codes. For instance, while NAICS might group all jet aircraft in one industry, Alan's system separates fighter jets, commercial jets, and blimps into unique segments. Even within food, categories like potato chips, pretzels, and popcorn are treated as different industries based on buyer behavior and competitive factors. The platform supports top-down and bottom-up analysis. A user can examine which industries a company like PepsiCo operates in (156 in total), or conversely, explore a given industry like potato chips and see the top competitors, value chains, channels, and influencing trends. Users can also compare companies by overlapping and unique industry participation—offering a precise view ideal for M&A analysis, competitive benchmarking, strategic expansion, or private equity targeting. Alan emphasizes that his system empowers corporate planners, marketers, and strategists to cut research time dramatically. What previously took months—such as comparing competitors by line of business—can now be done in seconds. A standardized set of industry data fields, inspired by Porter's methodology, makes this possible. Each industry entry includes value chains, buyer segments, substitute threats, supplier dependencies, market trends, and more. To bring this vision to life digitally, Alan partnered with Semantic Arts, a leader in semantic technology and the data-centric revolution. Together, they formed Industry Knowledge Graph LLC, combining Alan's industry content with a modern knowledge graph platform. The system launched with an initial demo and subscription access, and plans are underway to expand its data, integrate public classification codes (e.g., NAICS, UN), and invite partnerships to enrich its content. Alan concludes by emphasizing that the Industry Knowledge Graph offers a strategic lens to view the economy—one grounded in Porter's logic, built with real-world granularity, and powerful enough to revolutionize strategic planning across industries. About Alan Michaels As the Director of Industry Research at Industry Knowledge Graph LLC, I am solely focused on enhancing our industry model of the global economy, which leverages the IBB model of the global economy (covering 25,000 industries) developed by Industry Building Blocks LLC. For the past 24 years, I have been building and maintaining the best available industry segmentation of the global economy by line of business, using Michael E. Porter's five forces industry analysis methodology. My business expertise is in corporate planning, business unit planning, industry analysis, new business development, and aligning and coordinating business and IT and other activities to make the whole greater than the sum of the parts. In 1994, I self-published (a Porter-inspired step-by-step corporate planning workbook) "Structured Strategic Planning" while teaching at Pace University Graduate School. In short, since reading Porter's book "Competitive Advantage" in 1986 I have been passionate about leveraging his five-forces industry framework to provide high-quality, granular, and comprehensive industry data to raise the level of strategic thinking. Executive Contact: Alan Michaels Title: Managing Director of Industry Research LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alansmichaels/ Company: Industry Knowledge Graph Website: https://www.industrykg.com/ Company Type: Private Year Founded: 2021 Practice Areas: Industry Model of the Global Economy, Knowledge Graph Platform, Market Segmentation, Five Forces Industry Analysis, M&A Analysis, Industry Taxonomy, Industry Classification Systems, Industry Ecosystems, Michael Porter Frameworks, Semantics, Ontology, Linked Data, Industry Trends, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Industry Classification Systems, Corporate Strategy, Business Unit Strategy, Competitor Analysis, and Market Intelligence

Wise Decision Maker Show
#355: 25% Faster, 40% Better: The New Math of AI-Accelerated Work

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 3:02


AI-accelerated work boosts productivity and quality by over 40%, proving that human-AI collaboration can transform knowledge work if organizations balance adoption with ethical oversight and smart navigation of AI's limits. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which discusses how AI-accelerated work helps knowledge workers be 25% faster and 40% better.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/25-faster-40-better-the-new-math-of-ai-accelerated-work/

Retail War Games
When Purpose Becomes the Competitive Advantage | Ryan Moss

Retail War Games

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 32:59


What do you do when your product gets copied, your margins collapse, and your brand is on the edge? Ryan Moss didn't just survive it — he rebuilt Little Giant from the ground up. In this episode, he shares how betting the farm led to a total reinvention, turning a ladder company into a mission-driven brand that saves lives. This is a masterclass in leadership under pressure.

Triple Win Property Management
Collaboration as a Competitive Advantage in Property Management

Triple Win Property Management

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 47:57


In this episode of the Triple Win Podcast, Peter Lohmann joins to talk Zillow, AI, reducing churn, and why having a community can elevate your property management business.

Battery Insiders
In conversation with Yann Vincent, CEO of ACC

Battery Insiders

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 58:19


Dr. Simon Engelke speaks with Yann Vincent, CEO of Automotive Cells Company (ACC) to explore the strategic vision and challenges of strengthening Europe's battery independence through sustainable manufacturing, regulatory navigation, and future expansion plans. ACC is a European battery manufacturer backed by Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, and TotalEnergies. They build gigafactories to power Europe's clean mobility shift and to strengthen the continent's battery independence and industrial resilience.What we cover in this episode: Yann Vincent's personal insights on leadership and his transition from automotive to battery manufacturingACC's origin story and its vision for Europe's battery independenceBattery cell costs, local supply chains, chemistry choices, and EU regulationsThe impact of electric vehicle (EV) demand on expansion plans and ACC's financing strategiesACC's sustainability efforts, potential moves beyond automotive into energy storage and next-generation battery technologiesThe importance of local supply chains and partnerships with European battery material suppliersChallenges of competing with Chinese manufacturers, the need for European sovereignty in battery production, and the role of government support and regulations Chapters:00:00 Introduction to ACC and the European Battery Landscape02:58 Yann Vincent's Background and the Formation of ACC05:26 Current Status and Future Plans of ACC08:08 Yann's Personal Motivations for Transitioning from Automotive to Battery Cell Production14:02 Challenges in Battery Cell Costs and Competition with China16:49 The Importance of European Battery Supply Chains for the European Car Industry18:11 How Europe Can Catch Up with China in Battery Cell Manufacturing23:50 Tariffs vs. Subsidies as Regulatory Support27:24 Competitive Advantages and Disadvantages of a Fully European Battery Material Supply Chain30:06 Navigating Battery Chemistry and Market Trends35:09 Balancing Manufacturing with R&D36:37 Is Regulation a Competitive Advantage or a Burden? Sustainability in Battery Production38:48 How the European Financing Ecosystem is Responding to the Battery Industry46:09 Market Demand Dynamics and Future Expansion Plans50:18 Thoughts on Expansion Approach52:52 Similarities and Differences Between Battery Manufacturing and Car Manufacturing54:32 Future Outlook for ACC and the Battery Market

Impressions Xchange
New Report Reveals AI Adoption in the Printing Industry

Impressions Xchange

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 20:04


In this episode of the Impressions Exchange podcast, Ashley Roberts, content director of Printing Impressions, chats with Nathan Safran, vice president of Research at Alliance Insights. They delve into key findings from the latest research study, 'AI Adoption in the Printing Industry: From Curiosity to Competitive Advantage.'

The Only Constant - A Playbook for Change Leaders
Why Transformation Capability Is the New Competitive Advantage with Aric Wood (CSO, Tigerhall)

The Only Constant - A Playbook for Change Leaders

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 19:27


Change isn't just accelerating—it's gone exponential. And most organizations are about to get left behind.In this week's episode of the Only Constant, Aric discusses with Nellie Wartoft how the pace of technological change has shifted from Moore's Law's predictable two-year cycles to explosive six-month doubling periods, why traditional change management approaches are now obsolete, and how building enterprise-level transformation offices with both hard capabilities and cultural agility has become the ultimate competitive advantage.Resources: - Listen to “CFO's Don't Fund Feelings”, our July 8th episode with Aric and Nellie- Check out Aric's ROI guide for change initiatives: https://tigerhall.com/guides/how-to-measure-roi-in-a-change-initiative-a-playbook-for-proving-the-value-of-transformation-efforts   Connect with:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nellie Wartoft⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CEO of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tigerhall⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Chair of the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Executive Council for Leading Change (ECLC)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠nellie@tigerhall.com

Boosting Your Financial IQ
What is Strategy in Business? | Ep 188

Boosting Your Financial IQ

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 30:28 Transcription Available


Not sure what your numbers are telling you? Get a free review: coltivar.com/financial-review Profit benchmarks for the construction industry: coltivar.com/benchmarks Most business owners confuse strategy with planning. They make to-do lists, call it a strategy, and wonder why results don't stick. In this episode, Steve breaks down what business strategy really means and why it's different from a plan or a set of tactics. You'll learn how to identify your company's true strategic problem, why putting the customer at the center matters, and the framework that connects strategy with finance so you can grow profit, improve cash flow, and increase firm value._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Best D Life with Daniela- Helping You Find the Bliss in Your Busy
How Embracing Authenticity Can Transform Your Life and Leadership with Andie Henrich

Best D Life with Daniela- Helping You Find the Bliss in Your Busy

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 21:43


In this episode, I talk with executive coach Andie Henrich about authenticity, personal growth, and leadership. Andie shares her journey from corporate life to coaching, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with core values to achieve fulfillment and avoid burnout. We discuss practical strategies like curiosity, introspection, and gratitude to maintain authenticity and balance. Andie offers tools for self-reflection and encourages small, intentional steps toward change. The episode aims to inspire you to protect your energy, create meaningful lives, and support one another on the path to greater well-being and joy.Andie Henrich is a visionary executive, transformational coach, and sought-after keynote speaker whose mission is to ignite authenticity as a powerful catalyst for growth in business, leadership, and life. With more than 25 years of success driving digital transformation, revenue acceleration, and strategic innovation at companies like IBM and Infosys, Andie now empowers professionals to lead and live with clarity, courage, and conviction. As founder of Authenticity Ignited, Andie blends her sharp strategic acumen with a deeply human approach. She coaches women navigating midlife and career transitions, helping them embrace reinvention, reconnect with purpose, and confidently claim their next chapter. Her coaching style is rooted in lived experience, mindful practices, and actionable frameworks that generate both personal and professional breakthroughs. In parallel, Andie delivers high-impact keynotes and workshops to corporate audiences, leadership summits, and growth-driven teams. Her signature talks, including “Authenticity as a Competitive Advantage” and “From Burnout to Breakthrough”, inspire organizations to cultivate cultures of trust, resilience, and sustainable performance. She speaks with the authority of a business leader and the heart of a coach, offering transformative insights that resonate long after the event. Her multicultural and multilingual upbringing enriched her global perspective and deepened her capacity to connect with diverse audiences—whether in the boardroom or on stage. This grounding in strategic thinking and analytical rigor continues to inform her leadership, coaching, and speaking style, all fueled by an unwavering commitment to continuous learning, personal growth, and meaningful impact. Whether she's advising the C-suite, guiding women through reinvention, or inspiring a room of hundreds, Andie Henrich stands for authenticity, growth, and impact without compromise. Connect with Andie!Website - www.andiehenrich.comLinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook

Breaking Banks Fintech
Surviving the VUCA Bazooka: Turning Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity into Competitive Advantage

Breaking Banks Fintech

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 48:58


In This Episode Gyrating securities prices, perplexing consumer confidence numbers, multiple revisions of jobs numbers, varying interest rate forecasts- that's VUCA: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. Tim Mahedy is Founder and Chief Economist at Access Macro and serves as the Chief Economist at Alloy Labs, and his perspective, shaped by time at the IMF, as the Chief of Staff at the San Francisco Federal Reserve, and by advising leaders globally, comes at a critical moment. He joins host JP Nicols to reveal why the old banking playbooks are dead, how the “VUCA Bazooka” is reshaping the landscape not just now, but for the foreseeable future, and what bold leaders must do now to turn chaos into their biggest competitive advantage. If you don't want to be left behind, this is your wake-up call, and your blueprint to winning in 2026 and beyond. JP Nicols and Tim Mahedy will be giving an executive briefing on their findings and recommendations on October 2nd. Learn more and register at AlloyLabs.com/events

The Influential Personal Brand Podcast
Your Competitive Advantage in a World of AI with Ryan Levesque

The Influential Personal Brand Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 52:40


How a 7‑Time Inc. 5000 CEO Built AI‑Resistant Human Connection When most of us talk branding, we talk about being seen. But what if the real breakthrough right now is being truly known? In this deeply candid episode, Ryan Levesque—7‑time Inc. 5000 CEO, two‑time national bestseller, and creator of the Ask Method—pulls back the curtain on his pivot from algorithm‑chasing software launches to embracing things only humans can give: authenticity, trust, and real presence. He walks us through his career—from scrabble‑tile jewelry and survey‑based marketing to building hyper‑responsive communities and hand‑writing his newsletter, The Digital Contrarian. Now, with his forthcoming book Return to Real, Ryan flips the script: in a world of deepfakes and dopamine traps, real can be the last true competitive edge. Expect to walk away with: A fresh lens for building brands that don't just scale—but resonate The “Fewer, Deeper, Less” formula for personal presence in a noisy world Why oxytocin beats dopamine—and how to build content that connects, not just grabs attention The hard‑won lesson of putting humanity first in the AI era If you're ready to reclaim your voice, slow the scroll, and become a category of one—this episode was made for you

Dry Powder: The Private Equity Podcast
Competitive Advantages and Carve-Outs w/ TPG's Steve Ellis

Dry Powder: The Private Equity Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 15:14


In part two of our interview series, we explore how the impact lens can enhance carve-outs — from deal sourcing to execution.

Wise Decision Maker Show
#354: Your Company's Survival Hinges on This Gen AI Learning Tactic

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 3:00


A phased Gen AI learning approach ensures smooth adoption, boosts productivity, and builds a culture of innovation through tailored training, feedback loops, and strategic scaling. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about why your company's survival hinges on this Gen AI learning tactic.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/your-companys-survival-hinges-on-this-gen-ai-learning-tactic/

Agency Unfiltered
Why Culture Is the Real Competitive Advantage in the AI Era

Agency Unfiltered

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 26:05


Gemma Price is the founder and CEO of HubGem, a UK-based diamond HubSpot partner that has grown from a kitchen-table startup to a 20-person team serving schools and nonprofits worldwide. Her story blends bold entrepreneurship, deep commitment to culture, and a clear-eyed embrace of AI as an amplifier of human potential. In this episode, you'll hear: How Gemma turned her experience in education into a thriving HubSpot consultancy Why every HubGem employee is now “AI-amplified” and what that means for scaling without losing quality The PACE Model (playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, empathy) and how it shapes team culture and customer relationships Practical examples of navigating client fears and resistance to AI adoption Why HubGem's people-first approach earned recognition at the British HR Awards Gemma's advice to other partners on scaling authentically while holding fast to their values It's a masterclass in building hybrid teams where humans and AI work together—without losing the heart of the business.

Wise Decision Maker Show
#353: The Surprising Secret to Making Gen AI Training Addictive

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 2:38


Gamification boosts engagement, retention, and real-world application, making Gen AI training more effective, collaborative, and motivating for employees. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about the secret to making generative AI training addictive.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/the-surprising-secret-to-making-gen-ai-training-addictive/

ASCII Anything
S10E3: Red Hat Competitive Advantages and Savings Webinar

ASCII Anything

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 59:24


This week's episode features an engaging podcast-style Red Hat webinar we recently hosted.Tom Simmons from Red Hat joined a panel of Moser experts that featured Shaun McAdams, Tom McGuinness, and Matt Wren to discuss ways Red Hat can help you gain a competitive advantage in the cloud and optimize your IT spending. The topics they covered include: Cloud Optimization Strategies, Real-World Cost Savings, and Open Source Innovation. If you're a business leader or IT professional who's seeking actionable insights, then this episode is for you!

Scaling UP! H2O
437 Redefining HR: The Key to Talent & Culture in Water Treatment

Scaling UP! H2O

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 66:48


What if HR wasn't the department you dreaded — but the partner that helped your team thrive?  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Tia Amundson, HR Director at HOH Water Technology, to explore how human resources can be a strategic driver of talent, culture, and profitability in the water treatment industry.  Redefining HR's Role  Tia shares her journey into water treatment and how she built HOH's HR department from the ground up. Instead of treating HR as a compliance function, she reframed it as a leadership partner—focused on employee connections, transparent communication, and culture building. From structured check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days to coaching managers and bridging communication gaps, her approach ensures employees feel supported, heard, and connected.  Culture as Competitive Advantage  HOH's success story demonstrates how culture directly shapes business outcomes. Tia explains how open-book management, employee engagement surveys, and intentional recognition programs have increased retention, profitability, and trust across the organization. By aligning HR strategies with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), HOH has cultivated an environment where employees thrive and deliver exceptional service.  Talent, Retention, and the Future of HR  Finding and retaining the right people remains one of the industry's biggest challenges. Tia outlines the importance of a clear employee value proposition, authentic recruiting practices, and a commitment to work-life balance. She also discusses how HR will evolve over the next decade, balancing automation with the irreplaceable human element of caring for people.  Dream Management and Employee Growth  As a Certified Dream Manager, Tia integrates personal growth with professional development. By helping employees pursue their own dreams, HOH has fostered deeper engagement, loyalty, and breakthroughs that extend far beyond the workplace.  Conclusion  For leaders in the water treatment industry, this episode challenges you to view HR not as a cost center, but as a powerful lever for long-term success. Strategic HR practices can reduce turnover, build culture, and give your organization a competitive edge.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:28 - Trace Blackmore welcomes listeners, shares personal “sharpen the saw” growth theme  04:53 - Sharpen-the-saw story  08:10 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:05 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   13:15 - Interview with a friend and Rising Tide Mastermind member Tia Amundson, HR Director, HOH Water Technology   13:30 - HR as employee connection + leadership alignment, not a “principal's office”  16:32 - From hiring to long-term care  19:14 - Coaching managers  23:49 - Turnover → P&L  33:12 – Recruitment Realities   44:03 – Dream Manager Program  48:11 – Overcoming Skepticism   50:02 – The Future of HR  51:13 – Start/Stop for HR  52:50 – Foundational operating system (EOS) first    Quotes  “HR isn't about punishment—it's about building trust, culture, and strategic advantage.”  “Pour into your employees, and they will pour into their work. That discretionary effort is what differentiates great companies.”  “Open communication and transparency aren't soft skills—they're the foundation of an intentional culture.”  “We started this interview saying we'd shatter how people think about HR—and I think we've shattered about a dozen things already.”   “When you engage employees in their personal dreams, you directly impact workplace engagement.”    Connect with Tia Amundson Phone: +12247721377  Email: tamundson@hohwatertechnology.com   Website: www.hohwatertechnology.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-amundson-shrm-cp/     Guest Resources Mentioned   HOH Water Technology   EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)   Gallup Q12 Engagement Survey   The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly  How to Be a Great Boss: Gino Wickman, René Boer  Traction by Gino Wickman  Three Signs of a Miserable Job by Patrick Lencioni   Wellbeing at Work: How to Build Resilient and Thriving Teams by Jim Clifton (Author) & Jim Harter   People: Dare to Build an Intentional Culture (The EOS Mastery Series) by Mark O'Donnell (Author), Kelly Knight (Author), CJ DuBe' (Author)   Beyond High Performance by Jason Jaggard    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Industrial Water Week  Scaling UP! H2O's Industrial Water Week Resources Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What are some reasons for softener resin beads to crack?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.     

Spirit of EQ Podcast
On Our Minds - Social Media, Humor, and Empathy: The Emotional Cost of Chasing Attention

Spirit of EQ Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 56:57 Transcription Available


Here's what's been on our minds lately. We explore the importance of knowing your strengths—or your "wheelhouse"—and the courage it takes to stay true to what you do best, even when outside pressure tempts you otherwise. They dive deep into lessons learned both as musicians and emotional intelligence practitioners, offering real-world stories about confidence, alignment, and growth.We examine the darker side of social media trends, where humor and pranks sometimes cross the line into harm and disrespect. You'll hear our perspectives on self-awareness, the value of true comedy, and the difference between humor that lifts people up versus that which tears others down.Finally, we tackle the timely topic of AI's rapid evolution and its impact on the skills that will matter most in the future—curiosity, emotional intelligence, and our spiritual connections. Whether you're a leader, creative, or just someone curious about living more authentically, this episode is packed with thoughtful takeaways on how to flourish in a changing world by truly knowing yourself.Moments00:00 "Mastering Music Through Confidence"05:12 Passion vs. Obligation in Work09:09 "Emotional Intelligence and Self-Discovery"10:59 Standing Up to Misplaced Expectations15:28 Embrace Your Expertise Authentically19:14 Sentinel Island Contact Prohibition20:36 Controversial Stunt Backfires in Korea25:22 Online Video "Clowning" Critique27:45 Winnie the Pooh Moment33:34 Humor's Personal Boundaries35:40 Automated Strike Zone Tested in Baseball37:54 "Reflecting on Self-Seriousness"42:41 AI Enhancing Motorbike Choices45:35 AI's Impact on Knowledge and Emotion50:02 "Building Emotional & Spiritual Muscles"51:19 "Leaders Ignore Emotional Growth"Here are our top 3 takeaways for anyone seeking growth, personally and professionally:Know Your Wheelhouse (and have the courage to honor it):Understanding what you do best—and more importantly, WHY—allows you to confidently step up for the right opportunities and graciously step aside from those that aren't a fit. This self-knowledge not only fuels better performance but helps conserve your energy for work that truly resonates.EQ in Action: Humor, Connection, and Consequences:From the pitfalls of “prank culture” to the fine line in comedy, Eric and Jeff emphasize the importance of self-awareness and consequential thinking. Is your humor uplifting or potentially harmful? EQ isn't just a professional asset; it's essential for authentic human connection and personal responsibility.EQ as a Competitive Advantage in the Age of AI:While AI can provide us with instant answers and automate analytical tasks, it can't replace genuine curiosity, the drive to discover how, or the capacity to connect in meaningful ways. The future belongs to those who cultivate emotional and spiritual intelligence alongside technical savvy.In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, can do for you in your daily and work life. For more information, contact Eric or Jeff at info@spiritofeq.com, or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast...

The Chris Voss Show
The Chris Voss Show Podcast – Human Capital Investment Strategy: Six Steps to Cultivate Potential and Yield Competitive Advantage by Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer

The Chris Voss Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 30:42


Human Capital Investment Strategy: Six Steps to Cultivate Potential and Yield Competitive Advantage by Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer https://www.amazon.com/Human-Capital-Investment-Strategy-Competitive/dp/B0FKNQ6TC5

Powerful Women Rising
Protect Your Peace: Why Mental Health Is Your Business's Competitive Advantage w/LaKisha Mosley

Powerful Women Rising

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 34:50 Transcription Available


Send us a textIs "success" costing you your sanity, your health or your joy?In this powerful episode, I sit down with mental health advocate and entrepreneur LaKisha Mosley for a raw, real, and refreshingly honest conversation about what it actually looks like to prioritize your wellbeing while building a business. LaKisha knows firsthand what happens when we ignore the warning signs — because she's been there: running a business, raising a family, checking all the boxes… and silently unraveling behind the scenes.Now, she's on a mission to help other women entrepreneurs stop “swapping their sanity for success.” This conversation is your permission slip to do things differently - and your roadmap for how.In this episode, we cover:The difference between mental health and mental illness (and why both matter in business)Why women entrepreneurs are especially vulnerable to high-functioning depression and burnoutHow protecting your peace gives you a strategic edge in businessHow to normalize asking for help - especially if you've been conditioned not toWhy rest isn't lazy, and slowing down isn't quittingIf you've ever felt like the weight of your business is crushing you, this episode is a reminder that your wellbeing is not optional. It's foundational. And as LaKisha says, "Protect your peace like it's your profit — because it is."Links and References:If you want to grow your business in a way that feels good (and doesn't cause burnout!) join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!For even deeper connections, better support and faster business growth, check out the  Powerful Women Rising Business Growth Community!If you're ready to prioritize your wellbeing as a business investment, follow Lakisha on Instagram @LakishaMMosley or visit her website to download her mental health crisis plan.Support the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth. Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME She lives in Colorado Springs with two dogs, her soul cat Giorgio and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Wise Decision Maker Show
#352: Why Forcing Women Back to the Office Will Cost Us Millions

Wise Decision Maker Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 3:42


Forcing women back to the office causes them to experience nearly double the gender discrimination risk compared to remote work—leaders ignoring this could face lawsuits, talent loss, and costly reputational damage. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which discusses why forcing women back to the office will cost us millions.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/why-forcing-women-back-to-the-office-will-cost-us-millions/

Everyday AI Podcast – An AI and ChatGPT Podcast
EP 604: Beyond the Hype: Turning AI Ethics into Competitive Advantage

Everyday AI Podcast – An AI and ChatGPT Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 30:07


AI growth with no rules? That's not bold. It's reckless.Everyone's racing to scale AI. More data, faster tools, flashier launches.But here's what no one's saying out loud:Growth without governance doesn't make you innovative. It makes you vulnerable.Ignore ethics, and you're building an empire on quicksand.In this episode, we're breaking down how to scale AI the right way—without wrecking trust, compliance, or your future.Newsletter: Sign up for our free daily newsletterMore on this Episode: Episode PageJoin the discussion: Questions for Rajeev or Jordan? Go ask.Upcoming Episodes: Check out the upcoming Everyday AI Livestream lineupWebsite: YourEverydayAI.comEmail The Show: info@youreverydayai.comConnect with Jordan on LinkedInTopics Covered in This Episode:Balancing AI Innovation with Ethical GovernanceIntroduction of Rajeev Kapur and Eleven o Five MediaRajeev Kapur's Background in AICompanies Balancing AI Innovation and EthicsFormation of AI Ethics BoardData Management as Competitive AdvantagePrivacy and Ethics as Product FeaturesGovernance and Ethical Standards in AI UseImpact of Regulatory Changes on AI UseDeepfakes and Their ImplicationsEncouragement for Companies to Lead Ethically in AITimestamps:00:00 Navigating AI: Innovation vs. Risks04:00 "AI Startup's Spatial Audio Journey"06:49 AI Ethics Oversight & Governance10:04 Strategic AI Advisory Team Formation15:34 AI Strategy and Governance Essentials16:55 Global Standardization Needed for AI Policies22:47 AI Ethics: Innovation vs. Deepfakes25:48 "Regulate Deepfakes Like Nukes"27:17 Leadership Vision for Future SuccessKeywords:AI innovation, Ethical governance, Large language models, Data privacy, AI ethics board, AI governance, TDWI, Microsoft stack, Generative AI, AI algorithms, Spatial audio, Deep fakes, Data differentiation, Machine learning, Cyber security, Enterprise technology, Rajeev Kapur, 11:05 Media, AI safety, OpenAI, Data utilization, Ethical AI alignment, Regulatory aspect, AI models, Innovation vs. ethics, AI data privacy, Explainability, Data scientists, Third-party audits, Transparent AI usage, AI-driven growth, Monitoring feedback loops, Worst case testing, Smart regulations, Digital twins, Disinformation, AI bias mitigation, Data as new oil, Refining dataSend Everyday AI and Jordan a text message. (We can't reply back unless you leave contact info) Ready for ROI on GenAI? Go to youreverydayai.com/partner

Remodelers On The Rise
Building a Client-First Remodeling Business

Remodelers On The Rise

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 53:49


In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle chats with Audra Gossage, a remodeler who shares how her team builds trust with trade partners, prioritizes communication, and creates a client-first remodeling experience from start to finish. From clear process documentation to empowering clients with good design and honest pricing, you'll hear how Audra leads her business with both intention and care. If you want to run a business that clients love and trade partners rave about, this conversation is for you. ----- Want to keep in touch with past clients and prospects without the hassle of writing content yourself? That's exactly what Remodelers AutoPilot does — each month you get a done-for-you email newsletter and social media posts, ready to send. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Remodeler's Autopilot helps maintain client relationships. Building trust with trade partners is essential for business success. Technology like Builder Trend can streamline operations. Job costing is crucial for understanding project profitability. Separating client deposits from operating funds is vital. Hiring the right team members is key to business growth. Using DISC profiling can improve hiring decisions. Transparency in pricing builds trust with clients. A focus on client experience can set a business apart. Effective communication reduces client inquiries and enhances satisfaction. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:43 Audra's Journey into Remodeling 08:26 The Evolution of LTD Builders 11:28 Building Relationships with Trade Partners 19:12 Embracing Technology in Business 23:46 Financial Management Insights 28:47 People and Sales Strategies 28:55 Fortune Favors the Bold 31:45 Building a Strong Team 41:58 Sales Strategies in Construction 50:12 Client Experience as a Competitive Advantage

Tangent - Proptech & The Future of Cities
CRE's Inflection Point: How Tenants & Landlords Can Thrive Today, with Newmark's President of Leasing Liz Hart

Tangent - Proptech & The Future of Cities

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 34:19


Liz Hart is President of Leasing for Newmark's operating businesses in the U.S. and Canada, where she drives the strategy of the firm's leasing platform, leads talent development and recruitment, and helps integrate technology to deliver better outcomes for clients. She also serves on Newmark's Executive Committee, reporting directly to CEO Barry Gosin. With more than 20 years at Newmark, Liz has completed close to 35M square feet of transactions valued at over $4.2 billion. She has consistently ranked among the firm's top producers and was a regular Top Five Producer in Newmark's San Francisco office. Her experience spans advising technology companies from startups to Fortune 50 giants, repositioning large-scale developments that have reshaped skylines, and leading Newmark's Technology & Innovation Practice Group to help landlords and tenants in the TAMI/TMT sectors create spaces that attract and retain talent.(01:16) - State of the Office Market: Shrinking Supply & Turning Point(05:05) - How to Approach Office Leasing in 2025(13:45) - Talent, Culture & Competitive Advantage(15:49) - Data-Driven Leasing & Advisory: Automation vs. Augmentation(18:07) - Feature: CREtech - Join CREtech New York 2025 on Oct 21-22 for the largest Real Estate Meetings program. Qualified Real Estate pros get free full event pass plus up to $800 in travel and hotel costs.(19:39) - Brand Building in Commercial Real Estate(24:32) - Flex Space vs. Traditional Leasing (27:00) - End-to-End Platform: Evolving the Leasing Function(29:02) - In-House vs. Outsourcing Tech & Data(29:41) - Data Sharing & Antitrust: The RealPage Settlement(31:31) - Collaboration Superpower: Steve Jobs

The Agents of Change: SEO, Social Media, and Mobile Marketing for Small Business
In an AI World The Human Touch Becomes a Competitive Advantage with Jay Baer

The Agents of Change: SEO, Social Media, and Mobile Marketing for Small Business

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 34:46


AI is everywhere - and soon every business will have access to the same tools. What will set you apart is the human touch. Jay Baer shares why adding back small, meaningful moments of connection can become your strongest competitive advantage in a world where AI is just table stakes. https://www.theagentsofchange.com/598   Need help with your branding, website, or digital marketing? Reach out to me (Rich Brooks!) today at https://www.takeflyte.com/contact

The Ryan Hanley Show
Transforming Your Health into a Competitive Advantage in Business | Ted Ryce

The Ryan Hanley Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 84:52


Stop paying $500/month for 8 different marketing tools. Try GoHighLevel's all-in-one platform free for 14 days → https://link.ryanhanley.com/gohighlevel Join our community of fearless leaders in search of unreasonable outcomes... Want to become a FEARLESS entrepreneur and leader? Go here: https://www.findingpeak.com Watch on YouTube: https://link.ryanhanley.com/youtube Ted Ryce Website: https://www.legendarylifepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ted_ryce/ Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at: https://ziprecruiter.com/work Ryan Hanley sits down with health and fitness expert Ted Ryce to explore the critical transition from your 30s to 40s and how to maintain peak physical and mental performance during the most demanding years of your career. Ted shares his deeply personal story of how health and fitness literally saved his life after a devastating family tragedy, and how he's now dedicated his career to helping high-achieving professionals who find themselves successful but exhausted, looking in the mirror and not recognizing the person staring back. This episode dives deep into the science behind sustainable weight loss, debunks common myths about metabolism and nutrition, and provides actionable strategies for busy professionals who want to optimize their health without sacrificing their career ambitions. Key Topics Covered: Why health is your ultimate competitive advantage in business The real science behind weight loss and metabolism Debunking the sugar vs. fat debate with actual research How to navigate health challenges during your peak earning years The truth about popular diets (keto, carnivore, low-carb) Practical strategies for the 35-50 demographic The role of stress, sleep, and recovery in performance Modern health interventions: GLP-1 agonists, TRT, and peptides Whether you're a driven entrepreneur, executive, or ambitious professional feeling the physical toll of success, this episode provides the roadmap to reclaim your health and energy without compromising your goals. P.S. If you're frustrated with your personal growth, if you know you're capable of more but unsure how to unlock the best version of yourself, fill out this form: https://go.findingpeak.com/widget/form/tEeVsIdIkU1FyjxsL5No Episodes You Might Enjoy:From $2 Million Loss to World-Class Entrepreneur: https://lnk.to/delkFrom One Man Shop to $200M in Revenue: https://lnk.to/tommymelloIs Psilocybin the Gateway to Self-Mastery? https://lnk.to/80upZ9

The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk
649: Sam Lessin - Type 2 Fun, Voluntary Hardship, Joy as a Competitive Advantage, Long-Term Thinking, & Life Lessons From Dad (Lessin's Lessons)

The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 56:09


Go to www.LearningLeader.com for full show notes This is brought to you by Insight Global. If you need to hire 1 person, hire a team of people, or transform your business through Talent or Technical Services, Insight Global's team of 30,000 people around the world have the hustle and grit to deliver. www.InsightGlobal.com/LearningLeader My guest: Sam Lessin is a Partner at Slow Ventures, with prior experience as Vice President of Product Management at Facebook and CEO of Drop.io. His career highlights include serving as a key executive at Facebook, leading product management efforts, and successfully co-founding Fin. His current role at Slow Ventures involves investing in innovative startups across various sectors, showcasing his expertise in entrepreneurship and venture capital. Notes: Key Learnings The 4:30 AM Advantage – Sam's father would be at his desk by 4:30 AM every day, saying, "It's easy to look smart if you have a several-hour head start on everyone else." Early work creates compounding advantages over time. Either Be Early or Be Late, Don't Be On Time – Father's wisdom about timing and seasons. Start your career super early to get ahead, or strategically wait and come in later. Timing matters more than perfect preparation. Joy as the Ultimate Competitive Advantage – "I just don't think that in the long run, angry people win." Look for joyful people in hiring and partnerships because joy is sustainable while anger burns out. Type Two Fun Builds Resilience – Type 1 fun is enjoyable while doing it (rollercoaster). Type 2 fun "completely sucks while you're doing it, but there's joy on the other side" (climbing mountains, marathons). Entrepreneurs need Type 2 fun experiences. Practice Voluntary Hardship – Sam ran a sub-3-hour marathon and got a pilot's license not for love of activities, but for "practice moments" of perseverance. Creates evidence that you can handle business adversity. Right Person, Right Opportunity, Right Time – Don't ask "is this a great person?" Ask, "Is it the right person at the right moment?" Success requires all three elements to align, not just talent. Write Publicly for Intellectual Receipts – "If you can't write the check, write me the thesis and timestamp it." Writing creates accountability, proves thinking ability, and builds reputation over time. Nobody Knows What They're Doing – Working at Bain taught Sam that even prestigious companies "have no idea what you're doing." This is liberating—you can figure it out too. Big Things Take Time (Slow Ventures Philosophy) – Most success isn't quick wins. Venmo took "so many turns of the crank." Be patient finding the right wind, then sail fast when you catch it. Embrace Being Wrong Most of the Time – Seed investing means "you're mostly wrong, you mostly lose money." Success comes from being very right occasionally, not being right consistently. The Solana 2000x Return Story – Put in $400K, returned 2000x to LPs. Success came from the intersection of thesis (looking for "Ethereum killer") and relationships (following Raj Gokal through multiple startups). Use Humor and Authenticity as Filters – Slow Ventures website looks like a law firm in tuxedos "on purpose." If you don't think it's funny, "you're not who we want to invest in." Writing Pushes Away Wrong People – "I really like to be not liked by the people I don't want to work with." Authentic writing attracts the right people and repels the wrong ones. Manufacturing Hardship for Privileged Kids – "Tiger Dad" sports culture might be a misguided attempt to create necessary adversity for wealthy children who lack natural hardships. I loved the throughline of this whole conversation being about his dad, working exceptionally hard, and having joy and excitement for the journey. Maybe it was the near-death experiences that his dad had that led to that mindset. Regardless, it's something we can all learn from. We want to be around optimistic people who have joy and love for what they're doing… Nobody knows what they're doing. We're all figuring it out as we go. You'll never learn unless you go out and do the thing. Figure it out as you go. Just get started. And iterate. Learn. Try again. And keep going. Advice from Sam – Write publicly. You don't know what you think until you get your thoughts out of your head onto the page. And if you publish them, you have a record of the journey. Also, you might attract someone to work with. That is how Jack Raines (guest on episode #539) caught Sam's attention, and now they work together. Useful Quotes: "It's easy to look smart if you have a several-hour head start on everyone else." "I just don't think that in the long run, angry people win." "Either be early or be late, don't be on time." "The right question is, is it the right person at the right moment?" "Writing is thinking. If you can't write, you can't think." "I feel like a tenured professor of capitalism—responsible to make a lot of money over the long term by being very right every once in a while with permission to be wrong all the time." "One of the most insulting things you can call someone is a market participant." "The beauty of the internet is so big. The right people find you." "Big things take time." "Life's short. Is this really what you're spending your time on?" Apply to be part of my next Learning Leader Circle. Time Stamps: 00:11 Sam's Dad's Unique Career Path 00:39 Life Lessons from My Dad 04:35 The Trade-offs of Hard Work 06:57 Betting on the Right People 07:23 The Importance of Joy in Success 10:39 Overcoming Hardships and Building Resilience 20:40 My Journey: From Harvard to Bain 26:06 Joining Facebook and Learning from Mark Zuckerberg 29:36 Balancing Joy and Competitive Spirit 30:15 The Story of Rippling and Parker 31:48 The Solana Investment Journey 34:33 The Importance of Writing and Public Thought 41:07 The Philosophy Behind Slow Ventures 52:54 Advice for Aspiring Venture Capitalists 55:46 Future Plans