Podcasts about Competitive advantage

Effective Gen AI adoption relies on tracking AI skills development. Data-driven learning, personalized training, and real-world metrics ensure employees confidently apply Gen AI to drive measurable business impact. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which discusses what tracking Gen AI skills can teach us about the future of work.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/what-tracking-gen-ai-skills-can-teach-us-about-the-future-of-work/

Regular, collaborative check-ins help leaders navigate AI disruption by aligning teams, fostering psychological safety, and driving continuous improvement—turning Gen AI experimentation into real business results. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which describes how to tame the Gen AI disruption with regular check-ins.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/taming-the-gen-ai-disruption-with-regular-check-insDr. Gleb Tsipursky bio https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/glebtsipursky   Dr. Gleb Tsipursky LinkedIn (send message when connecting) https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gleb-tsipursky/   Dr. Gleb Tsipursky's latest books:   "ChatGPT for Thought Leaders and Content Creators: Unlocking the Potential of Generative AI for Innovative and Effective Content Creation" is available at https://amzn.to/3YI2vuc   "Returning to the Office and Leading Hybrid and Remote Teams: A Manual on Benchmarking to Best Practices for Competitive Advantage" is available at https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/hybrid/   "Never Go With Your Gut: How Pioneering Leaders Make the Best Decisions and Avoid Business Disasters" is available at https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/nevergut   "The Blindspots Between Us: How to Overcome Unconscious Cognitive Bias and Build Better Relationships" is available at https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/blindspots   

As 2025 comes to a close, Steve revisits five standout moments from five of our most impactful Great Practice conversations this year. This episode is built as a highlight reel, with short clips pulled from full-length interviews that focused on the business side of running a law firm. The goal is simple: give you the best ideas from 2025 in one place, so you can spot the next upgrade your firm needs and put it into action. As you listen, treat this like a working session. Steve tees up five areas to pay attention to, and each clip gives you a practical lens you can apply right away. When a segment makes you think, "That is exactly what we need," pick one idea to implement this week, then use the show notes to jump into the full episode for the complete conversation. You'll hear: John Morgan on building a systems-first, 21st-century firm through automation and transparency, and what it looks like to scale without relying on individual heroics Chris Murphy on upgrading your case mix by choosing your lanes, setting intake criteria, and confidently saying no to the wrong work while referring it out the right way Lori Pulvermacher on turning hiring into real capacity with a 90-day onboarding plan that defines what "winning" looks like at 30, 60, and 90 days Barb Betts on asking for introductions instead of transactional referrals, and how to do it with language that feels natural and creates real permission Robert Rose on building repeat referrals with a scalable partner program, using simple relationship "rings" and value touches that keep you top of mind If a specific moment hits home, check the show notes to jump into the full episode with that guest and take the next step from insight to implementation. Next week, we'll share Part 2: Best of 2025, Great Life. In this episode, you will hear: Five standout Great Practice moments from 2025 Scaling with systems, not heroics Automation and transparency for consistency and leverage Niche discipline, intake criteria, and confidently saying no Hiring into capacity with a 30/60/90-day onboarding plan Asking for introductions and building referral momentum through relationships Building repeat referrals with a structured partner content program Follow and Review: Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ Supporting Resources: Grow or Die: John Morgan's Relentless Strategy for Law Firm Expansion – Part 1: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/grow-or-die-john-morgan John Morgan: www.forthepeople.com/attorneys/john-morgan Morgan & Morgan: www.forthepeople.com Litify: www.litify.com Injury.com: www.injury.com The Client Upgrade System That Changes Everything with Chris Murphy: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/client-upgrade-system Chris Murphy: atticusadvantage.com/team/chris-murphy Scalli Murphy Law, P.C.: www.scallimurphy.com Onboarding as a Competitive Advantage: 7 Essential Tips for Law Firms with Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/strategic-onboarding-for-law-firms Lori Pulvermacher: atticusadvantage.com/team/lori-pulvermacher Download: New Hire Onboarding Guide for Law Firms: atticusadvantage.com/worksheets/new-hire-onboarding-guide Beyond Word of Mouth: Systemizing Referral Marketing with Barb Betts: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/beyond-word-of-mouth-systemizing-referral-marketing Barb Betts: www.barbbetts.com The Biggest Marketing Mistakes Lawyers Make and How to Fix Them with Robert Rose: atticusadvantage.com/podcast/marketing-mistakes-lawyers-make-with-robert-rose Robert Rose: robertrose.net Seventh Bear: www.seventhbear.com Reach Out To a Practice Advisor: atticusadvantage.com/contact-us   If there's a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Curious about growing your own practice? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.

In Episode 48 of the Design of AI podcast, we unpack why the most common AI promises are collapsing under real market pressure. AI was meant to unlock strategic work, expand opportunity, and elevate creativity. Instead, UX and design roles are disappearing, agencies are cutting creative staff while buying automation, and freelance work is being devalued as execution becomes cheap.This episode is not about panic. It is about reality. Value still exists, but it is concentrating among those who can integrate AI into real systems, navigate ambiguity, and own outcomes rather than outputs.

In this Season 14 review (Part 3) Andrea revisits key insights from Dr. Shane Creado on the critical link between sleep, concussions and performance. The episode explains how even mild or repeated head impacts and sleep deprivation damage the same brain regions that support learning, memory, decision-making and emotional regulation, and how one all‑nighter can reduce hippocampal learning capacity by around 40%. Practical takeaways include treating sleep as neurological recovery (7–9 hours), protecting the brain after head jolts, avoiding late alcohol and screens, and prioritizing consistent sleep routines to restore learning, resilience and long‑term brain health for athletes, students and professionals. Welcome back to SEASON 14 of The Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast, where we connect the science-based evidence behind social and emotional learning and emotional intelligence training for improved well-being, achievement, productivity and results—using what I saw as the missing link (since we weren't taught this when we were growing up in school), the application of practical neuroscience. I'm Andrea Samadi, and seven years ago, launched this podcast with a question I had never truly asked myself before: (and that is) If productivity and results matter to us—and they do now more than ever—how exactly are we using our brain to make them happen? Most of us were never taught how to apply neuroscience to improve productivity, results, or well-being. About a decade ago, I became fascinated by the mind-brain-results connection—and how science can be applied to our everyday lives. That's why I've made it my mission to bring you the world's top experts—so together, we can explore the intersection of science and social-emotional learning. We'll break down complex ideas and turn them into practical strategies we can use every day for predictable, science-backed results. As we are nearing the end of Season 14 here, it has been about reflection as we have looked back and reviewed past interviews. Our goal has not been about nostalgia, or remembering these interviews, the goal has been about integrating what we have learned. Taking what we know, aligning it with how the brain actually functions, and applying it consistently enough to change outcomes. And if there's one thing this season has reinforced, it's this: Sustainable success isn't built on intensity or focus alone—it's built on alignment. As we move into what's next, (Season 15) the focus shifts from understanding this alignment to bringing this alignment into a tangible, physical form, or embodiment. Not more information—but better execution. After hundreds of conversations with neuroscientists, educators, peak performers, and thought leaders, one truth keeps resurfacing— lasting success is never about doing more. It's about alignment. Alignment between how the brain actually works, how emotions drive behavior, and how daily habits compound over time. Season 14 has been about stepping back—not to reminisce, but to integrate what we have learned into our current life. I knew the minute that I was sent a couple of video clips from our past episodes, that I had forgotten about, that while I thought I had implemented the ideas from our past guests, I had some work to go myself. For this reason, we spent Season 14 and will resume with Season 15 next January, reviewing past episodes, with the goal of noticing what we have now aligned, that's bringing us results in our daily life. Core Reflection When we started this podcast 7 years ago, the goal was simple: bridge neuroscience research with practical strategies people could actually use. What I didn't fully appreciate then—what only became clear through repetition, reflection, and real-life application—is that information alone doesn't create change. Understanding the brain doesn't matter if we ignore what to do with the information we release each week: improving our sleep reducing our stress practicing emotional regulation with consistency that actually changes who we are at the core: our identity Season 14 has been about connecting those dots. Listening again to conversations with voices like Dr. John Medina, Dawson Church, Bob Proctor, Dr. John Ratey, Friederike Fabritius, and so many others, one pattern became impossible to ignore: The brain thrives on simplicity, repetition, and finding emotional safety to implement these concepts—not intensity or a quick fix. We will take the time with each interview review to offer ways for all of us to implement the lessons learned, so that when we finish 2026, we will be able to look back, and see where our changes all began. This week, we move onto PART 3 of our review of EP 72[i] with Shane Creado, MD and his book Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes recorded back in July of 2020. ✔ In PART 1[ii], we covered: How strategic napping, morning brain habits, and even the Silva Method all work together to reset your brain, boost performance, and transform your health from the inside out. ✔ In PART 2[iii] we continued with our review, diving a bit deeper into sleep deprivation and its impact of performance (whether you are an athlete, or just someone looking to improve productivity). ✔ PART 3, we will go a bit deeper into the impacts of concussions and brain injuries on our sleep and performance. Let's go back to 2020 and revisit what Dr. Creado had to say about sleep in this last episode of this season.   VIDEO 1 – Click Here to Watch   In the first clip of this episode, with Dr. Creado, he dives into the connection with concussions and sleep. He says, “Most people who have had a concussion end up with sleep problems. It makes a lot of sense when you think about the brain and how it regulates sleep and wakeful cycles and then it gets jarred. But what people don't realize is that even a mild head injury can really damage your brain. Even if you're not officially diagnosed with a concussion, you don't have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. You don't even need to have any symptoms to have your brain injured in some way. And then the little injuries along the way add up over time. So the brain is as soft as butter and in a hard, bony skull. Anything that jars it, even whiplash can cause your brain to be injured. And it accumulates over time. What's interesting is that the same regions of the brain that are most damaged in head injuries are also damaged in sleep deprivation and also alcohol use. The frontal lobes, the temporal lobes and the parietal lobes at the top of the brain.”

In this episode, Matt is joined by Laura Tacho, CTO at DX — one of the leading voices in developer experience research and tooling. Together, they unpack how AI is really affecting software development teams, why developer experience has a “marketing problem,” and why organizational friction — not technology — is the biggest productivity killer.If you've been wondering whether AI is living up to the hype in engineering teams, this conversation will give you the data, the reality, and the leadership takeaways you can act on today.Key Discussion Points[00:48] – What “Developer Experience” Really Means[02:55] – The Real Sources of Developer Friction[03:44] – Core Developer Experience Problems (Pre- and Post-AI)[05:46] – Clarity as a Competitive Advantage[07:25] – The Mistake of “Shit Shielding”[08:18] – How AI Raises the Stakes for Product Thinking[10:00] – The 10x Developer Myth's Real Origin[11:30] – Measuring Developer Experience with the DX Index[14:00] – The Role of Leadership in Removing FrictionResources & Links DX – Research and tools for improving developer experience: https://getdx.com/Developer Experience Index https://getdx.com/dxi-reportingSubscribe to the Product Driven Newsletter: https://productdriven.com/newsletterWhat Smart CTOs Are Doing Differently With Offshore Teams in 2025: https://hirefullscale.com/offshore-hiring-guide

Privacy is one of those topics everyone knows they should understand better—right up until it becomes urgent. Headline: it’s urgent. That's exactly why I wanted Richy Glassberg, CoFounder / CEO of SafeGuard Privacy, on the show: to tackle what may be the most complex challenge marketers face: privacy compliance at scale. Sample Page: SafeGuard Privacy Playbook Richy brings big credibility to the conversation. You’ll hear the stories of a career that included helping launch CNN.com and its digital business, co-founding the IAB, and building an advertising infrastructure still used across the industry. He likes to build things. And we’re the better for it. Because he’s THE person to help explain why privacy laws aren't just legal issues—they're structural ones. And why, if you work in marketing, advertising, media, or tech, these laws apply to you whether you realize it or not. “These laws don't care what kind of digital advertising you do. They ask one question: ‘do you have data on a consumer, and what are you doing with it?’” Richy breaks down what regulators are actually asking, why enforcement is picking up, and why brands are now responsible not only for themselves, but for their entire partner ecosystem. “Privacy doesn't have to slow growth. If you standardize it, make it auditable, and prove it once, it becomes a competitive advantage.” What I appreciate most about Richy's approach is that it's practical, and empathetic. He understands the values and the limitations of AI. He knows human attorneys need to be involved. He has made sure that SafeGuard is nimble and building systems that make compliance auditable, efficient, and—yes—actually helpful to growth, even when the rules keep changing.  We also talk about: Why inboxes listed on privacy policies are now enforcement targets How standardization saved digital advertising once before…and why it’s key to compliance now Where AI fits into privacy workflows (and where it shouldn't) Why proving compliance matters more than promising it If privacy still feels abstract or overwhelming, this conversation will give you clarity—and probably a healthy nudge to check a few things you've been meaning to look at.  Speaking of healthy, I’m so honored to have Richy on for 23 million additional reasons: he is also a founding force behind BreastCancer.org, (did we mention they are matching donations through December?) It’s now one of the most recognizable, trusted, peer-reviewed health information sites in the world. Richy put his powers to use, from grabbing the URL to creating the revenue streams that are the foundation for its viability and ability to serve more than 20 million women globally, and counting. Richy Glassberg works in a world defined by discretion and safeguards, yet remains an open book—grounded in purpose, devoted to his wife and best friend Katy, loyal to his Jack Russells, disciplined through 30 years of training in Shorin-Ryu Karate, and committed to making privacy compliance clearer, calmer, and more human. Key Moments: 00:00 – Why privacy compliance has become a business risk CMOs can't ignore 4:10 – How data privacy laws impact all forms of digital advertising 8:55 – How Richy’s sneakers explain privacy really well 12:40 – Why brands are now responsible for vendors…and their vendors' vendors 17:05 – What enforcement really looks like (and why it's accelerating) 22:30 – How standardization turns compliance into a competitive advantage 26:15 – Using AI to assist privacy teams without replacing legal judgment 30:45 – From building CNN.com to how a pixel protected Ted Turner’s business 34:50 – The origins of BreastCancer.org and why it's the work Richy’s most proud of 39:10 – Putting digital to good while keeping the open internet viable 41:55 – What’s next at SafeGuard Privacy Connect with Richy Glassberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richy-glassberg-49a915 Visit SafeGuard Privacy for more resources: http://www.safeguardprivacy.com Connect with E.B. Moss and Insider Interviews: With Media & Marketing Experts            LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mossappeal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insiderinterviews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InsiderInterviewsPodcast/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@insiderinterviews Please follow Insider Interviews, share with another smart business leader, and leave a comment on @Apple or @Spotify… or a tip in my jar!: https://buymeacoffee.com/mossappeal!  THANK YOU for listening!

R. Kenner French shares practical, real-world guidance on how small business owners can begin using artificial intelligence—even without a large budget or technical background. The discussion is sparked by a conversation with a client who runs a lean business with no employees and only a contractor overseas, yet wants to strategically deploy AI to grow and stay competitive. Kenner emphasizes that AI adoption is no longer optional and that starting small, consistently, and intentionally can produce meaningful results over time.At a foundational level, Kenner recommends dedicating at least one hour per day to learning and using AI. This investment doesn't need to be complex or expensive—it could involve the business owner or a virtual assistant experimenting with tools like ChatGPT to support daily operations. To reinforce accountability and leadership, he suggests organizing a local AI meetup, where the business owner leads discussions within their industry. This not only forces deeper learning but positions the individual as a local authority on AI, expanding influence, visibility, and professional credibility.Kenner also encourages business owners to engage with the broader AI ecosystem by attending industry conferences such as AI4 or similar events. With consistent learning—approximately 20 hours per month—a small business owner can quickly outpace many so-called “experts” in the field. These events create opportunities to network, collaborate, and potentially even speak on panels in the future. Kenner underscores that Vast Solutions Group's expertise in AI is built on years of hands-on experience, dating back to their proprietary AI model, Einstein, launched in 2018.On the practical side, Kenner advises using AI tools—starting with ChatGPT Plus—for decision-making across the business. By building a strong knowledge base that reflects the company's history, goals, and constraints, business owners can ask AI for strategic input on marketing, operations, sales, and growth. He also highlights the value of client-facing AI tools, such as chatbots and specialized GPTs for marketing, sales, HR, or customer service, which can improve responsiveness and efficiency without adding staff.Ultimately, Kenner delivers a clear warning and opportunity: businesses that fail to adopt AI will struggle, not because AI replaces them directly, but because competitors who use AI will move faster, smarter, and more efficiently. AI tools are affordable, increasingly powerful, and accessible to nearly any business owner willing to invest time and curiosity. He concludes by encouraging listeners to leverage resources, including their website, community, and weekly AI-focused podcast segments, to stay ahead in an AI-driven business landscape.Takeaways• Spend at least one hour a day on AI.• Engage with your community through AI discussions.• Attend AI conferences to network and learn.• Use AI for decision-making in your business.• Implement a chatbot to enhance customer interaction.• AI is essential for staying competitive in business.• Invest time in learning about AI technologies.• AI tools are becoming more affordable.• Join community resources for ongoing AI education.• Position yourself as an industry leader through AI knowledge.Sound Bites• Spend at least one hour a day on AI.• AI models are getting cheaper over time.• Invest time in learning about AI.Listen & Subscribe for More:

My guest today is Henry Ellenbogen, founder and Managing Partner of Durable Capital Partners. Henry built his reputation at T. Rowe Price, where he led the New Horizons Fund and turned it into one of the best-performing small-cap growth portfolios in the country. In 2019, he left to start Durable. His philosophy is grounded in a simple belief that great investing is about understanding people and change. Henry has spent his career studying the rare 1% of companies that drive nearly all long-term returns . Durable's edge comes from being able to tell the difference between a company that is failing and one that is transforming. Henry often talks about “Act II” teams – founders who take the lessons from their first company and apply them to a new frontier. Durable itself is his Act II. In our latest Colossus profile, Managing Editor Dom Cooke traces Henry's story and specifically how he became one of the most influential investors of the 21st century, having learned from founders like Jeff Bezos and John Malone in the early part of his career. I always hear the same thing from founders who've met Henry: “he understood my business faster than anyone”. The thing that sticks with me from our conversation and Dom's profile is just how much he loves investing. 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 (00:04:00) Meet Henry Ellenbogen (00:05:29) Origin of Henry's Investment Philosophy (00:08:12) Identifying the 1% of Great Companies (00:12:53) Patterns of Successful Compounders (00:20:34) Act Two Entrepreneurs and Teams (00:25:43) Building Durable Capital: Henry's Act Two (00:30:11) Dollar Cost Averaging Up Strategy (00:35:02) Market Structure and Agency Problems (00:38:26) Impact of Quant Funds and Short-Term Capital (00:42:21) AI as Transformative Change (00:45:30) How Affirm Uses AI (00:48:23) Amazon's Cost Curve Advantage (00:51:48) Leadership Through Change (00:56:54) Robotics and Physical Kaizen (01:01:29) Favorite Types of Competitive Advantages (01:05:25) Investment Memo Structure (01:09:21) 2022 CEO Tour on Market Transition (01:19:18) Hiring and Developing Talent (01:24:09) Making Colleagues Better (01:27:56) Being Intellectually Honest in Investing (01:29:11) Lessons from Success (01:33:04) Case for Going Public (01:36:32) Netflix Transition Example (01:41:29) Two Types of Greatness (01:45:42) The Kindest Thing

Remote work expands opportunity and economic stability for older workers with disabilities, removing barriers and helping them stay employed longer in an inclusive, flexible labor market. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which describes the ________.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/remote-work-offers-a-lifeline-for-older-workers-with-disabilities-research-shows/

Jonathan Wolf is the co-founder and CEO of ZOE, the science-based nutrition company using data to transform how people eat. In this candid conversation, he joins me to explore what it takes to build a mission-driven company, how to lead with more clarity and transparency, and why the way we eat is more broken and more fixable than most people think.ZOE's origin story is as unconventional as it is inspiring. After scaling Critéo into a billion-dollar business, Jonathan stepped away with no plan and plenty of questions. That wandering period led him to microbiome researcher Tim Spector, and from there, to the bold idea of using AI and big data to personalize nutrition at scale. Eight years and 250,000 microbiome samples later, ZOE is running the world's largest nutrition science study and has launched a free app to help people assess their food in real time.Where to find Jonathan:ZOEXLinkedInTimestamps:(00:01:30) Jonathan's Path from Tech Operator to Founder(04:24) Why Success at a $2B IPO Still Felt Empty(05:39) Sabbatical, Loss of Structure, and Founder Identity Crisis(06:58) The Serendipitous Meeting That Sparked ZOE(09:27) Letting Go of Outcome Obsession and Learning to Value the Process(11:48) Chasing Achievement vs. Living in Alignment with Values(14:19) Becoming a Founder Later in Life—and Why That Helped(17:05) Why Being Naïve About an Industry Can Be a Competitive Advantage(19:45) Raising €7 Million in Just a Few Weeks(20:53) Convincing World-Class Scientists to Bet on an Unproven Idea(24:20) Building a Flywheel: Science, Data, and Community(29:51) Using Technology and AI for Human Good(38:47) From Pure Science to a Scalable Business Model(43:05) Creating the ZOE Membership Flywheel(48:07) Community Science as a Core Business Strategy(50:44) Transparency, Trust, and Leading Through Hard Decisions(54:28) Mission-Driven Culture and Retaining Great Talent(57:56) Growing from Founder to Leader as the Company ScalesConnect with Alisa! Follow Alisa Cohn on Instagram: @alisacohn Twitter: @alisacohn Facebook: facebook.com/alisa.cohn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisacohn/ Website: http://www.alisacohn.com Download her 5 scripts for delicate conversations (and 1 to make your life better) Grab a copy of From Start-Up to Grown-Up by Alisa Cohn from Amazon

SummaryIn this conversation, Joe Bockerstette discusses his book 'Red Cloud Road' and the concept of 'Red Clouds'—the obstacles that prevent organizations from achieving their goals. He explains the Paragon methodology used in his consulting firm, Business Enterprise Mapping, to identify and address these issues. The discussion covers the importance of standardizing processes, engaging employees in improvement efforts, and making it easier for teams to do the right thing. Joe emphasizes the role of leadership in facilitating change and the value of experienced consultants in optimizing workflows.Buy the Book:Red Cloud Road: How Strategic Process Management Drives Competitive AdvantageConnect with Joe BockerstetteLinkedInwww.businessmapping.com KeywordsRed Clouds, Strategic Process Management, Paragon Methodology, Quick Wins, Workflow Optimization, Leadership, Change Management, Employee Engagement, Standardization, Business ProcessesTakeawaysRed clouds are obstacles preventing organizations from achieving their goals.The Paragon methodology helps organizations identify and address workflow issues.50% of red clouds can be resolved as quick wins by frontline employees.Standardizing processes can lead to greater efficiency and scalability.Engaging employees in process improvement fosters a culture of ownership.Leadership plays a crucial role in facilitating change management.Making it easy to do the right thing is essential for organizational success.Inadequate data collection often leads to workflow challenges.Experienced consultants can help organizations redesign processes for better results.The ideal consultant balances detail orientation with strategic awareness.Sound Bites"50% of all Red Clouds are quick wins.""It's about making it easy to do the right thing."Chapters00:00 Understanding Red Clouds and Strategic Process Management02:59 The Paragon Methodology and Quick Wins05:44 Identifying and Addressing Systemic Issues08:57 Standardizing Processes for Efficiency11:52 Engaging Employees in Process Improvement15:04 Leadership and Change Management17:54 Making It Easy to Do the Right Thing20:48 The Role of Consultants in Workflow Optimization

In part two of The Independent Sponsor Edge – Positioning for Competitive Advantage, host, Steve Brady, Market Leader of Transaction Advisory at Withum, is once again joined by Drew Brantley, Managing Director at Frisch Capital Partners, and Paul Marino, Partner at Sadis & Goldberg LLP, to discuss structuring and raising capital for successful deals.

In a market saturated with hype and fake promises, your integrity is your secret weapon for success. Learn four essential, actionable strategies to build deep customer trust and establish an ethical business that lasts and grows.GET YOUR: -FREE IKIGAI GUIDE (to discover your business purpose) -16-Step BUSINESS STARTER'S CHECKLIST -FREE VIDEO MASTERCLASS: Stop Flailing & Start Growing!

Key TakeawaysMullican expresses the value of the event, and given that AI and Copilot have matured, the sessions at the 2025 AI Agent & Copilot Summit NA will shift from a focus on experimentation to practical applications that deliver real impact.As a returning Programming Committee Board member, Mullican highlights the "unprecedented number of submissions this time around,” making it tough to choose sessions for 2025. The event will offer a mix of visionary talks, practical use cases, and deep dives to serve both tech and business audiences.Mullican shares how business leaders can use the event to "adapt to a new reality," as it aims to “cut through the hype” around AI and focus on practical realities. Even though AI offers transformative potential, most businesses will adopt it gradually, using tools like copilots to improve efficiency rather than undergoing radical overnight changes. "I expect that there's going to be a lot of discussion about. It's just these different layers, these different levels of AI hype and truth." Visit Cloud Wars for more.

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Steve breaks down why old-school strategy models don't fully work in an AI world anymore. He explains how the real value drivers have shifted to human capital and intellectual assets, why most companies confuse planning with strategy, and how to actually pick and attack the right strategic problem in your business._______________________________________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

In the 1820s, American entrepreneurs, engineers, and politicians dared to dream big. They believed they could cut a canal, not through Panama, but through the wild, rain-soaked terrain of Nicaragua. Their goal: To link the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and transform global trade forever. But what inspired these ambitious "canal dreamers?” And why did they believe Nicaragua held the key to controlling the future of commerce?  Jessica Lepler, Associate Professor of History at the University of New Hampshire and author of Canal Dreamers: The Epic Quest to Connect the Atlantic and Pacific in the Age of Revolutions, joins us to explore this nearly forgotten story of innovation, illusion, and international ambition in early American history. Jessica's Website | Book Show Notes: https://www.benfranklinsworld.com/428 EPISODE OUTLINE00:01:00  Introduction00:04:05 Desire to Build a Canal Across Central America00:08:01 Political Landscape of Central America During the 1820s00:09:55 Creating a Stable Central American Government00:11:55 Geography of the Nicaraguan Canal Route00:16:03 Economic Opportunities of an Interoceanic Canal00:17:57 Individual vs. State Interest in a Nicaraguan Canal00:21:58 Why Americans Sought A Private Canal Contract00:26:44 Information Canal Dreamers Relied On to Build a Canal00:33:12 Competitive Advantages of American Canal Dreamers00:35:40 American Surveys of a Central American Canal Route00:39:12 Influence of the Erie Canal00:42:32 Why the Nicaraguan Canal Failed00:44:50 What Canal Dreamers Reveal About the Early United States 0046:40 Overview of the Panama Canal00:49:50 Time Warp00:56:00 ConclusionRECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODES

AI agent building turns passive learning into practical skill-building, helping associations boost member capability, deepen engagement, and unlock new revenue opportunities through hands-on, coached innovation. This is the key take-away from this episode, which talks about how AI agent building can take you from education to revenue.You can find the article that forms the basis for this episode at https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/from-education-to-revenue-with-ai-agent-building/

Daryl Ruiter joined Baskin and Phelps and shared his perspective on the Browns' play-calling mistakes in their loss to the Titans in week 14, and why he thinks the analytics are working against the team. He also talked about how impressed he's been with Shedeur Sanders through his last three starts, and whether or not he thinks Kevin Stefanksi and Andrew Berry will still be with the Browns in 2026 and beyond.

In this episode, Ryan Deiss shares his insights on the impact of AI on business and marketing. He discusses the uncertainty surrounding the future, the shift in consumer behavior towards AI-driven results, and the steps his companies are taking to adapt. Ryan elaborates on the strategic pivot at Digital Marketer, transitioning from traditional training to leveraging AI tools trained on proprietary IP. He also provides practical advice on how businesses can audit and implement AI to improve efficiency and drive growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or business owner, this episode is a must-watch to understand the transformative potential of AI in today's market. 00:00 Uncertainty in the Age of AI 00:38 Exploring Ryan Deiss' Marketing Empire 01:25 Navigating Market Conditions and Deal Strategies 05:19 Reviving Businesses: The Process 12:08 The Role of AI in Business Optimization 19:32 AI's Impact on the Information and Coaching Industry 25:59 AI Integration in Business Operations 32:35 Future of Work: AI and Human Roles 36:40 AI's Influence on Business Valuations 39:21 Implementing AI in Portfolio Companies 41:36 AI Integration in the Workplace 42:26 Challenges and Fears of AI Adoption 43:23 AI as a Competitive Advantage 43:59 AI in Marketing and Acquisitions 44:45 The Future of AI in Business 48:26 Implementing AI for Efficiency 55:55 The Rise of AI Agents 01:03:50 AI's Impact on Employment and Economy 01:08:05 Digital Marketer's AI Pivot 01:17:47 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, Joe shares a personal story about his father, two very different types of people he observed over Thanksgiving, and why gratitude may be one of the most overlooked advantages creators can build right now. Joe explains how a well-known research study divided people into three groups: one that listed things they were grateful for, one that listed their hassles, and one that listed neutral events. The gratitude group ended up healthier, more optimistic, more energetic, and made more progress toward their goals. The complainers did worse across the board. Gratitude, Joe argues, is not soft or optional. It is a strategic mindset that fuels clearer thinking, better decisions, and more resilience. Complaining drains energy and momentum. Gratitude restores both. He closes with a simple, practical gratitude checklist you can use daily, weekly, and during tough moments to shift your mindset and strengthen your creator journey. Gratitude Checklist from the Episode Daily • List three things that went right today. • Reframe one complaint into something that is still working. • Thank one person out loud for something specific. • Use a small routine as a gratitude trigger. Weekly • Send one short note to someone who made a difference for you. • Celebrate one tiny win you would normally overlook. • Write down one lesson you learned from something hard. When life gets tough • Ask yourself, "What can I still control?" • Find one part of the situation that can make you better. • Notice one physical ability you still have and appreciate it. If you want to take the next step, try one or two items from the checklist this week. Small habits compound quickly. ------ If you want more insights every Friday morning, subscribe to Joe Pulizzi's Tilt newsletter at https://www.thetilt.com/. Get Joe Pulizzi's new book Burn the Playbook: https://www.joepulizzi.com/books/burn-the-playbook/ Subscribe to Content Inc. here - https://www.contentinc.io/

Join Andrea Samadi as she reviews Dr. Shane Creado's insights on why sleep is a core pillar of brain health, how chronic sleep deprivation harms reaction time, inflammation, pain perception, and why children pay the highest price. Learn practical sleep strategies—consistent schedules, light management, wind-down routines—and how the Silva Method's mind-training can deepen restorative sleep for athletes, high performers, and families. Welcome back to SEASON 14 of The Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast, where we connect the science-based evidence behind social and emotional learning and emotional intelligence training for improved well-being, achievement, productivity and results—using what I saw as the missing link (since we weren't taught this when we were growing up in school), the application of practical neuroscience. I'm Andrea Samadi, and seven years ago, launched this podcast with a question I had never truly asked myself before: (and that is) If productivity and results matter to us—and they do now more than ever—how exactly are we using our brain to make them happen? Most of us were never taught how to apply neuroscience to improve productivity, results, or well-being. About a decade ago, I became fascinated by the mind-brain-results connection—and how science can be applied to our everyday lives. That's why I've made it my mission to bring you the world's top experts—so together, we can explore the intersection of science and social-emotional learning. We'll break down complex ideas and turn them into practical strategies we can use every day for predictable, science-backed results. This week, we move onto PART 2 of our review of EP 72[i] with Shane Creado, MD and his book Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes recorded back in July of 2020. In PART 1[ii], we covered: How strategic napping, morning brain habits, and even the Silva Method all work together to reset your brain, boost performance, and transform your health from the inside out. Today, PART 2 we will continue with our review, diving a bit deeper into sleep deprivation and its impact of performance (whether you are an athlete, or just someone looking to improve productivity). PART 3, next week, we will go a bit deeper into the impacts of concussions and brain injuries on our sleep and performance. Just a reminder: Dr. Creado is a double board-certified sleep medicine doctor and psychiatrist who practices functional sleep medicine, integrative psychiatry, and sports psychiatry. He brings all of these specialties together to uncover the underlying factors that sabotage our sleep and then treats them comprehensively, helping people to achieve their health and performance goals with sleep at the forefront As we work through our reviews, we will spend a considerable amount of time on this important health staple that's scientifically proven to boost our physical and mental health. For today's EP 379, and PART 2 of our review of our 2020 interview with Dr. Shane Creado, we will cover: ✔ Sleep as a core pillar of health according to Dr. Shane Creado, author of Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes. ✔ Sleep deprivation is a national crisis and kid's pay the highest price. ✔ 7 Well-Known Tips for Improving Sleep ✔ Applying the Silva Method to Reset and Improve Our Sleep ✔ Important sleep tips for athletes and high performers   Let's go back to 2020 and revisit what Dr. Creado had to say about sleep. CLIP 1 — Why Sleep Is Non-Negotiable for Brain Health Short Explanation: In Clip 1, Dr. Shane Creado explains that sleep is a foundational pillar of brain health, equal in importance to exercise and nutrition. He emphasizes that without optimizing sleep, it is impossible to truly optimize learning, emotional regulation, focus, or performance. Dr. Creado highlights that chronic sleep deprivation is widespread in the U.S., often unnoticed, and especially damaging for children—where lack of deep sleep suppresses growth hormone, increases obesity risk, and raises the likelihood of developing mental-health challenges later in life. His message is clear: when sleep improves, the entire “fabric” of life and health begins to change. VIDEO 1 – Click Here to Watch In our next video clip from Dr. Creado, I ask him to dive deeper into optimizing our brain health with a quote from his book that reads “your brain health and sports performance cannot be optimized unless your sleep is optimized. And once this is achieved your quality of life will skyrocket. When you sleep well, the fabric of your life will change. And when this happens, it will have a ripple effect.” This sounds like a simple concept, but for those of us who have been working on improving this pillar, we know it's one of those concepts that easier said, than done. Let's hear Dr. Creado's thoughts on my question- And Dr. Creado replied that “sleep is one of the pillars of brain health along with exercise and nutrition. And we need to make sure we're getting the right amount of sleep. Most adults and most teenagers don't know about this but a vast majority, 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep problem. And way more than those suffer from sleep deprivation, chronic sleep deprivation. If a child is deprived of sleep, their growth hormone levels will be suppressed because deep sleep is where growth hormone levels peak, so basically you are going to be stunting your growth. Over 80% of kids who are sleep deprived go on to develop obesity. There's a huge overlap between kids who are chronically sleep deprived who manifest mental health conditions later in life.”

In today's short episode of The Leveraged Business Podcast, we explore resilience as the new AI competitive advantage. It's a conversation that's missing in most discussions about artificial intelligence — the human side of business acceleration.  AI is transforming how we work, decide, communicate, and create. But while the tools are getting faster, our nervous systems… are not. This episode reveals the truth about why AI isn't overwhelming us — our lack of internal resilience is. And why the real competitive advantage for modern entrepreneurs is not speed, tools, or automation… but the capacity to stay grounded and clear while everything else speeds up. If you want to grow sustainably in an AI-driven world, this is the episode you do not skip. In this episode, you'll discover: — The unexpected way AI increases emotional and cognitive load, even as it simplifies tasks. — The single pattern that causes even experienced entrepreneurs to become reactive under AI acceleration. — Why AI amplifies your internal state more than your skillset, and how to turn that into your advantage. — The three markers of true resilience in the AI era (and why "pushing harder" is not one of them). — How to recognise when you're accelerating faster than your nervous system can safely sustain. — The leadership shift required to harness AI strategically without burning out.  — What grounded acceleration looks like — and why it outperforms speed every time. — The unexpected reason resilience, not technology, will determine who thrives over the next decade. Grab Jay Allyson's new #1 bestselling book Rising Resilience with Grit, Grace & Growth, available now on Amazon. This powerful collective wisdom inspired by interview with successful entrepreneurs navigating challenges, crisis, and change is the game-changer you didn't know you needed. 

Todd Irwin, founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Fazer on de-positioning, a strategic approach to outperform competitors by solving hero customer pain points better than anyone else. The musician and artist turned brand strategist who has advised Fortune 500 companies, SMEs and startups for three decades, argues for a shift in thinking from differentiation to problem solving, and simply being better. An expert in delivering competitive brand strategies to visionary leaders seeking growth, he argues that creativity is downstream of positioning, and solving problems reminds us that when people grow, brands grow, and when companies grow, we all grow. 

The Capital Table is excited to present part one of a two part series: The Independent Sponsor Edge – Positioning for Competitive Advantage. This series will feature our host, Steve Brady, Market Leader of Transaction Advisory at Withum, and guests, Drew Brantley, Managing Director at Frisch Capital Partners, and Paul Marino, Partner at Sadis & Goldberg LLP. In part one, Steve, Drew, and Paul discuss how independent sponsors are winning deals without committed capital, as well as strategies for growth and value creation.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Creative Strengths podcast. This foundational episode examines something backed by research but often overlooked: how your creative thinking isn't a quirk misplaced in business, it's one of your biggest competitive advantages. Leading research consistently identifies creativity as the number one factor for future business success. This episode explores what creative thinking actually means in practical business terms, why it matters more than ever, and what becomes possible when you understand your specific creative strengths as genuine competitive advantages.   Key Moments: [00:00] Introducing Creative strengths  [02:33] The Research That Changes Everything  [05:22] What Creative Thinking Actually Means in Business  [14:07] Your Unique Creative Strengths  [17:17] Real Life, Right Now and my Experience [20:05] What Becomes Possible  [23:12] The Missing Piece & What You Actually Need  [26:56] What This Podcast Explores   Resources Mentioned: Read: This Week's Full Journal Post Link: The Base Notes Waitlist Subscribe to our Weekly newsletter Website: www.philippacraddock.com Email: news@philippacraddock.com  Ref: World Economic Forum Future of Jobs report Ref: IBM CEO Study on Creativity Ref: Linkedin Learning 2024 Workplace Learning Ref: Adobe State of Create report Ref: McKinsey on Agile Organisations Ref: Harvard Business School on Leadership in Uncertainty   Share Your Insights: What creative strength do you have that feels too easy or obvious to you, but others consistently find remarkable? I'd love to hear what you discover about your own creative thinking. Send me a message on Instagram. I read every message, often these discussions lead to future episodes   Never Miss an Episode: Subscribe to The Creative Strengths Podcast wherever you listen, and join my weekly newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights, practical guidance, and first access to new content.              

Bill Drysdale, Principal of the Taysa Group, and Ross Hartmann, Founder of Kiingo AI, introduce NCG's new 6-month AI Accelerator Workshop designed specifically for trades businesses who want to gain a competitive edge through practical AI adoption. They explain why AI is a people and strategy challenge rather than a technical one, sharing how the program helps leaders develop clear implementation roadmaps, save time on administrative work, and amplify their team's capabilities without getting overwhelmed by complexity. With limited seats available starting in December, this peer-based workshop offers accountability, proven tools, and industry-specific applications that turn AI from buzzword into business advantage.Summit Members - Check your Summit Weekly or connect with your Coach to register!Today's Podcast is brought to you by Protiv

This episode features Dianne Na Penn, a senior product leader at Anthropic, discussing the launch of Claude Opus 4.5 and the evolution of frontier AI models. The conversation explores how Anthropic approaches model development—balancing ambitious capability roadmaps with user feedback, making strategic bets on areas like agentic coding and computer use while deliberately avoiding others like image generation. Dianne shares insights on the shifting nature of AI evaluation (moving beyond saturated benchmarks like SWE-bench toward more open-ended measures), the evolution of scaffolding from "training wheels" to intelligence amplifiers, and why she believes we're closer to transformative long-running AI than most people think. She also discusses Anthropic's distinctive culture of authenticity, the under appreciated benefits of model alignment for producing independent-thinking AI, and why the real bottleneck to AI agents isn't model capability anymore but product innovation. (0:00) Intro(0:57) Starting the Work on Opus 4.5(2:04) Model Capabilities and Surprises(5:59) Computer Use and Practical Applications(7:21) Pricing and Positioning(10:02) Customer Feedback and Early Access(16:44) The Reality of Enterprise Agents(18:47) Future of AI and Long-Running Intelligence(28:06) Anthropic's Culture and Decision Making(30:31) Key Decisions and Fun Moments(33:45) Quickfire With your co-hosts: @jacobeffron - Partner at Redpoint, Former PM Flatiron Health @patrickachase - Partner at Redpoint, Former ML Engineer LinkedIn @ericabrescia - Former COO Github, Founder Bitnami (acq'd by VMWare) @jordan_segall - Partner at Redpoint

How can you build learning into how work gets done?Why should organizations think of learning as a system, not as a function?My guest in this episode are Kati Clement-Frazier, Director, School of Leadership at DaVita and Michele Graham, President of Intel and Learn at AmplityDuring our conversation Kati, Michele, and I discuss:Why learning must be treated as an organizational capability, not a set of programs.How psychological safety and reflection accelerate meaningful learning and behavior change.Why “flow of work” learning is about team routines, relationships, and work design—not microlearning.Why the future of learning requires new metrics and new mindsets.Why compliance-driven cultures limit experimentation, agility, and capability building.Connecting with Kati & Michele:Connect with Kati Clement-Frazier on LinkedInConnect with Michele Graham on LinkedInLearn more about The Learning Forum's CLO LIFT InitiativeEpisode Sponsor:Next-Gen HR Accelerator - Learn more about this best-in-class leadership development program for next-gen HR leadersHR Leader's Blueprint - 18 pages of real-world advice from 100+ HR thought leaders. Simple, actionable, and proven strategies to advance your career.Succession Planning Playbook: In this focused 1-page resource, I cut through the noise to give you the vital elements that define what “great” succession planning looks like.

You don’t need to be the cheapest. Or the loudest. Or the most polished. What you do need? A business culture that reflects who you truly are—and communicates it clearly to your community. In this week’s episode, Stacey continues the Community Capital series with a powerful conversation on why your culture is your greatest marketing tool. Through real stories (hello, flash mobs and pull-up banners!), she unpacks how knowing what makes you unique can drive growth, build trust, and create raving fans without spending a cent on flashy advertising. You’ll learn: ✨ How Stacey’s values-driven culture helped her studio grow from zero to 100 students in one week✨ Why being “not like the others” helped her stand out during the height of Dance Moms culture✨ Practical ways to reflect your values through images, messaging, events, and collaborations✨ Why your ideal customer doesn’t care about perfection—they care about connection✨ How to turn your unique culture into a movement your community wants to be part of

Russ Fradin sold his first company for $300M. He's back in the arena with Larridin, helping companies measure just how successful their AI actually is.In this episode, Russ sits down with a16z General Partner Alex Rampell to reveal why the measurement infrastructure that unlocked internet advertising's trillion-dollar boom is exactly what's missing from AI, why your most productive employees are hiding their AI usage from management, and the uncomfortable truth that companies desperately buying AI tools have no idea whether anyone's actually using them. The same playbook that built comScore into a billion-dollar measurement empire now determines which AI companies survive the coming shakeout.Timecodes: 0:00 — Introduction 2:15 — Early Career, Ad Tech, and Web 1.03:09 — Attribution Problems in Ad Tech & AI4:30 — Building Measurement Infrastructure6:49 — Software Eating Labor: Productivity Shifts8:51 — The Challenge of Measuring AI ROI14:54 — The Productivity Baseline Problem18:46 — Defining and Measuring Productivity21:27 — Goodhart's Law & the Pitfalls of Metrics22:41 — The Harvey Example: Usage vs. Value25:18 — Surveys vs. Behavioral Data28:38 — Interdepartmental Responsiveness & Real-World Metrics31:00 — Enterprise AI Adoption: What the Data Shows33:59 — Employee Anxiety & Training Gaps38:31 — The Nexus Product & Safe AI Usage42:08 — The Future of Work: Job Loss or Job Creation?44:40 — The Competitive Advantage of AI53:45 — The Product Marketing Problem in AI55:00 — The Importance of Specific Use CasesResources:Follow Russ Fradin on X: https://x.com/rfradinFollow Alex Rampell on X: https://x.com/arampell Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Follow our host: https://x.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see http://a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Bergmann, Owner & CEO of Laketown Electric Corporation, a $50M+ merit-shop contractor known for complex commercial and industrial projects and a people-first culture with … Read more The post Culture as a Competitive Advantage: How a Merit-Shop Contractor Built a $50M+ Powerhouse with 98% Retention appeared first on Top Entrepreneurs Podcast | Enterprise Podcast Network.

The Enduring Power of Direct Mail: Expert Insights from Zairmail's Wilson ZehrIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge welcomes Wilson Zehr, Founder and CEO of Zairmail, for a deep exploration into why direct mail is still one of the most effective marketing channels in today's digital-first world. Wilson draws from decades of experience—plus a surprising connection to competitive swimming—to illustrate how businesses can blend digital convenience with physical mail for unmatched engagement and ROI. This episode offers a practical, insightful guide for any leader looking to leverage direct mail to scale their business.Direct Mail as a Competitive Advantage in a Digital EraWilson opens the conversation by comparing the discipline of competitive swimming to the discipline required to launch successful marketing campaigns. New swimmers must warm up, refine their technique, and focus on continuous improvement—principles that apply seamlessly to businesses exploring direct mail for the first time. He emphasizes the importance of starting with small, targeted campaigns and refining strategy over time.The discussion then highlights how Zairmail's platform blends the ease of digital workflows with the impact of physical mail. Businesses can upload documents, preview their mail in real time, and send campaigns with a single click. With next-day processing and a nationwide production network, Zairmail ensures speed, scalability, and reliability across every campaign.Wilson also breaks down why direct mail continues to outperform expectations in 2024. From owning the “mail moment” to delivering strong ROI and enabling precise demographic targeting, physical mail creates a level of attention and trust that digital ads struggle to achieve. Whether using postcards, letters, snap packs, or self-mailers, choosing the right format can dramatically improve response rates and engagement.About Wilson ZehrWilson Zehr is the Founder and CEO of Zairmail and a seasoned marketing expert with 26+ years of experience helping organizations execute high-impact direct mail campaigns. Wilson's background in both technology and traditional media uniquely positions him to bridge the gap between digital tools and physical marketing performance.Connect with Wilson on LinkedIn.About ZairmailZairmail is a leading direct mail platform that makes sending physical mail as simple as sending an email. With next-day processing, nationwide facilities, real-time previews, and data-driven targeting tools, Zairmail empowers businesses of all sizes to launch fast, reliable, and high-ROI direct mail campaigns.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeZairmail WebsiteWilson Zehr LinkedIn ProfileKey Episode Highlights:How swimming principles translate into better marketing executionWhy direct mail continues to deliver high ROI in 2024The four main direct mail formats and when to use eachHow Zairmail blends digital workflows with physical mail for unmatched efficiencyExpert tips on targeting, creative, testing, and integrating digital channelsConclusionWilson Zehr reinforces that direct mail isn't outdated—it's a powerful, underutilized differentiator. By integrating digital...

Constant remote work requests signal a disconnect. Listening to employee needs through surveys and conversations is key to building trust, boosting morale, and shaping a policy that truly works for everyone. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about the cure for constant remote work requests.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/the-cure-for-constant-remote-work-requests/

What happens when you combine unapologetic ambition with a big, soft heart? In today's episode of the It's Your Offer Podcast with Dr. JJ Peterson (StoryBrand's former Head of Story, now Professor-in-Residence and host of Badass Softie), we reframe modern leadership: why joy belongs in the work, how authenticity drives performance, and how to make your unique point of view your unfair advantage—especially in an AI-saturated world.   If you're ready to do leadership differently, with joy, authenticity and a point of view that is uniquely yours and powerful, this episode is for you! Enjoy!   Mentioned in this episode Dr. JJ Peterson's Main Website Badass Softie Main Website Dr. JJ Peterson on Instagram Subscribe to Email List Leave a Podcast Review   Work/Connect with me: Offer Optimization Scorecard Book a Call   Tune in to start taking your business and life to the next level today and don't forget to subscribe or follow the podcast to make sure you don't miss any future episodes. Visit https://jessicamillercoaching.com/ to learn more. You can also follow me on Instagram (@jessicadioguardimiller) and Facebook.

In this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, Dr. Gleb Tsipursky speaks to David Lewallen, CEO of Verbatim Digital, about winning the AI chatbot marketing competition. You can learn about Verbatim Digital at https://verbatimdigital.com/

This is the audio version of the article which is featured on Group Dentistry Now's website. Andrea is President of Breaking Glass Inc., an HR Consulting Firm, a seasoned HR executive with over 30 years in various industries driving culture and engagements strategies. Andrea is the former Chief People Officer for Guardian Dentistry Partners (GDP) where she built the HR strategy and infrastructure during their rapid growth.

Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci update their weekend of College Football describing their gameday experiences as Joe attended the Lehigh/Lafayette game and Tom saw Nebraska/Penn State. Back to baseball, Tom notes the moves by the Rockies by retaining Warren Schaeffer while hiring Paul DePodesta as the new President of Baseball Ops. We focus on the Mets trading Brandon Nimmo and Hal Steinbrenner saying it would be 'ideal' for the Yankees to lower their payroll. Baseball is about a year away from negotiating a new CBA, how will it affect the game? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1882: Christine Comaford emphasizes how embracing neurodiversity unlocks untapped talent, strengthens team performance, and fosters innovation through unique cognitive strengths. She offers practical strategies to attract, onboard, and retain neurodivergent individuals, like those with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, ultimately showing how inclusion drives true competitive advantage. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smarttribesinstitute.com/competitive-advantage-power-embracing-neurodiversity/ Quotes to ponder: "When we understand neurodiversity, we open up a world of new possibilities for our organization." "An individual who falls in the neurodiversity spectrum often finds getting in the front door a challenge." "When we can value and accept our own brain, we will more easily accept and value the unique brains of our team."  

Join us as we explore how courageous leadership helps us integrate technology with purpose instead of pressure. We look at leaders who chose clarity over complexity and used vision to guide innovation. Their success came from reconnecting to why the work matters, asking better questions, and shaping tools around real human needs. When we lead this way, we create space for confidence, trust, and momentum. We also show how cultures shift when leaders speak openly, encourage small tests, and celebrate learning. Bold, people-centered goals create energy and push teams to think in new ways. We share a simple framework built on clarity, communication, connection, and commitment that keeps us steady when change feels messy. When we act with courage, our teams feel it, and they follow with more creativity and readiness. Key Takeaways: Lead with Purpose - Learn how to anchor any new technology or change in a clear why that brings people with you. Build Confidence Through Clarity - Expect tools to land better when you speak openly about what you know, what you don't, and what matters most. Create a Culture That Learns - Why small experiments, curiosity, and honest reflection spark stronger engagement than perfect plans. Set Human-Centered Goals - How bold goals tied to human outcomes help people think differently and fuel innovation. Use the Four C's to Stay Grounded – A simple framework you can use the next time change feels heavy. Resources Mentioned Get your FREE Copy of Chapter 11 from Amy's book, Courage of a Leader, by emailing rachelle@courageofaleader.com – Put “Visionary Chapter” in the Subject Line Want a Complimentary Leadership Conversation? Email rachelle@courageofaleader.com – Put “Courage Conversation” in the Subject Line The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you're empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy's most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader:...

In this episode of Construction Disruption, Todd Miller sits down with Micah Boak from Metallion Industries. With over a decade of experience in the metal roofing industry, Micah shares valuable insights on sales, the benefits of metal roofing, and how faith and gratitude play a crucial role in his career.Micah's unique approach to maintaining a positive attitude and embracing challenges provides a refreshing perspective on both personal and professional growth. Tune in to hear powerful stories and practical advice on how to adopt a mindset of gratitude and faith in both life and business.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Construction Disruption00:21 Meet Micah Boak: A Journey in Metal Roofing01:55 The Appeal of Metal Roofing05:06 Faith and Career: Micah's Personal Journey08:21 The Power of Gratitude and Positive Attitude09:46 Daily Routines and Mindset18:34 Challenges and Lessons Learned25:46 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing ThoughtsConnect with Micah OnlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micah-boak-7b47a5337/Website: https://metallionindustries.comEmail: micah@metallionindustries.comPhone: (503) 630-7513For more Construction Disruption, listen on Apple Podcasts or YouTubeConnect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedInThis episode was produced by Isaiah Industries, Inc.Construction Disruption was recently featured in this 15 Best Podcasts for Contractors list!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Hosts Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci update their weekend of College Football describing their gameday experiences as Joe attended the Lehigh/Lafayette game and Tom saw Nebraska/Penn State. Back to baseball, Tom notes the moves by the Rockies by retaining Warren Schaeffer while hiring Paul DePodesta as the new President of Baseball Ops. We focus on the Mets trading Brandon Nimmo and Hal Steinbrenner saying it would be 'ideal' for the Yankees to lower their payroll. Baseball is about a year away from negotiating a new CBA, how will it affect the game? The Book of Joe Podcast is a production of iHeart Radio. #fsrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unlike some other academic fields, the study of business has always had the challenging task of striking a balance between theory and practice. How can theoretical concepts aid business practitioners in real-world situations? And how can business academics expand their understanding of theory through that real-world application?  Jay Barney is a professor of strategic management at the University of Utah David Eccles School of Business. His work, including numerous books, journal articles, and textbooks, has shaped the field of strategy and entrepreneurship for decades. His most recent book is The Secret of Culture Change: How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your Organization.Jay and Greg discuss the evolving role of academia in the business world, the historical and current perceptions of business education, and the various theories that underpin strategic management. Barney delves into resource-based theory, the importance of organizational culture, and the intersection of strategy and practical business applications. *unSILOed Podcast is produced by University FM.*Episode Quotes:What really makes a strategy hard to imitate44:56: You're going to have a strategy that's likely to be a source of sustained advantage; you have to figure out how that leverages resources, or capabilities that are socially complex. Why? Because that's harder to imitate, stuff that's developed over long periods of time. That's path dependent. Why? Because that's hard to imitate, or stuff that's costly and ambiguous. Well, you don't know how to develop those capabilities because that makes it hard to imitate. And I can make some empirical predictions that socially complex resources and capabilities should last longer. As long as their value is retained, they should last longer than non–socially complex.Why entrepreneurship is so hard to theorize39:22: Entrepreneurship, one reason that it's under-theorized as a field is because the theory is really hard, because many of the assumptions and attributes that make it possible to theorize in non-entrepreneurial settings do not apply in entrepreneurial settings. And so then we're stuck with this Knightian uncertainty and difficulties associated with that.How strategy escapes the tautology problem46:25: I think that we can avoid the tautology problem by identifying the characteristics that resources and capabilities need to have in order to be sources of sustained advantage. And then, then empirical predictions come out of that. But they do not come out of the tautology, but by definition.Show Links:Recommended Resources:Jay Barney “The Lessons They Didn't Teach You in Business School” | unSILOed Modigliani-Miller TheoremHawthorne EffectNicholas BloomMichael PorterDavid TeeceWilliam H. MecklingMichael C. JensenJensen and Meckling article 76 JFEGuest Profile:Faculty Profile at University of UtahProfessional Profile on LinkedInWebsiteGuest Work:The Secret of Culture Change: How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your OrganizationWhat I Didn't Learn in Business School: How Strategy Works in the Real WorldOrganizational Economics: Toward a New Paradigm for Understanding and Studying OrganizationsGaining and Sustaining Competitive AdvantageStrategic Management and Competitive Advantage, Concepts: Concepts and CasesJay Barney | Google Scholar Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 378 revisits Dr. Shane Creado's science-driven advice on sleep, strategic napping, and why sleep is foundational for health, hormones, immunity, and performance. Learn practical nap protocols (10–20 minutes or 90-minute recovery naps), timing, environment tips, and how to protect your morning from cortisol-spiking habits like checking phones. The episode also shows how combining a short nap with the Silva Method — setting an intention and entering alpha — can boost creativity, insight, and problem-solving. It concludes with actionable routines to improve sleep consistency, support shift workers, and make sleep a strategy for better productivity and well-being. Welcome back to SEASON 14 of The Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast, where we connect the science-based evidence behind social and emotional learning and emotional intelligence training for improved well-being, achievement, productivity and results—using what I saw as the missing link (since we weren't taught this when we were growing up in school), the application of practical neuroscience. I'm Andrea Samadi, and seven years ago, launched this podcast with a question I had never truly asked myself before: (and that is) If productivity and results matter to us—and they do now more than ever—how exactly are we using our brain to make them happen? Most of us were never taught how to apply neuroscience to improve productivity, results, or well-being. About a decade ago, I became fascinated by the mind-brain-results connection—and how science can be applied to our everyday lives. That's why I've made it my mission to bring you the world's top experts—so together, we can explore the intersection of science and social-emotional learning. We'll break down complex ideas and turn them into practical strategies we can use every day for predictable, science-backed results. This week, in our review of EP 72 with Shane Creado, MD and his book Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes and will learn:  How strategic napping, morning brain habits, and even the Silva Method all work together to reset your brain, boost performance, and transform your health from the inside out. Clip 1: The Science of Strategic Napping In Clip 1, Dr. Shane Creado explains why every cell in the body follows its own circadian rhythm—and why humans were historically wired for polymodal sleep, with natural dips in alertness that make afternoon naps biologically appropriate. You'll learn: Why the “post-lunch crash” is actually a melatonin rise, not just fatigue Why old advice to “avoid naps” is outdated How short, intentional naps can boost alertness, learning, mood, and performance The simple rules behind strategic napping: length, timing, and environment This clip lays the groundwork for using naps as a tool—not a crutch—for better brain function. Clip 2: Your Morning Cortisol Curve & Hidden Sleep Dangers Clip 2 shifts the focus to the first moments of your day. Dr. Creado warns that checking your phone the moment you wake up spikes cortisol and sends your brain into danger mode, increasing anxiety and disrupting emotional regulation for the entire day. You'll also learn: Why shift work fragments DNA Why the WHO classifies shift work as a possible carcinogen How sleep protects your hormones, immune system, gut health, and long-term aging This clip reinforces that sleep is foundational biology, not optional or replaceable. How This All Connects to The Silva Method We close the episode by tying these insights back to our most-listened-to series—the Silva Method. Both Dr. Creado's strategies and Silva's techniques point to the same powerful truth: When we intentionally shift the brain into restorative states—through sleep, strategic napping, or Alpha/Theta training—we unlock higher performance, creativity, intuition, and emotional stability. You'll see how: Strategic naps naturally guide the brain into Alpha and Theta brainwave patterns Morning routines that protect your cortisol curve mimic Silva's “mental housecleaning” Sleep resets the brain in the same way Silva exercises reset focus, clarity, and intuition Both methods teach us to work with the brain, not against it Together, the science of sleep and the mental training of Silva give you a complete framework for building peak performance from the inside out. Episode 378: Featuring Dr. Shane Creado (Integrating the Silva Method[i] for Increased Creativity-Nap Integration) For today's Episode 378, we continue with our review of past episodes as we make connections to prior learning with whatever it is that we are currently working on this year. I'll create a roadmap at the end of this season so this pathway will make sense to us (I hope!) as we piece together important parts of our success puzzle and begin to bring them to life. As we review these episodes, you'll notice that around the time of the pandemic, around 2020, our interviews took a turn towards health and wellness, and to stay on track, I created a framework of our Top 5 Health Staples on Episode 87[ii], which eventually evolved into our Top 6 Health Staples when we added stress reduction to help us to boost our physical and mental health. This week, we're going back to one of my favorite interviews with the inspiring Dr. Shane Creado, who we first met on EP 72[iii] in July 2020 on the topic of “Sleep Strategies that Will Guarantee a Competitive Advantage.” Dr. Creado is a double board-certified sleep medicine doctor and psychiatrist who practices functional sleep medicine, integrative psychiatry, and sports psychiatry. He brings all of these specialties together to uncover the underlying factors that sabotage our sleep and then treats them comprehensively, helping people to achieve their health and performance goals with sleep at the forefront. To quickly review his background: Dr. Creado completed an undergraduate degree in physical therapy, went on to earn his MD, and then completed a fellowship in Sleep Medicine at the University of Wisconsin, recognizing the huge overlap between sleep and psychiatric issues. He believes in optimization, not normalization, and devotes his work to optimizing brain health in professional athletes, executives, and anyone interested in peak performance. We did a deep dive into his book Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes: The Cutting-Edge Sleep Science That Will Guarantee a Competitive Advantage on EP 71[iv] so that, when he came on EP 72, we could maximize our time together, by asking the most practical questions to help all of us move the needle with our sleep. How did I come across Dr. Creado? I first heard him on Dr. Daniel Amen's Brain Warrior's Way Podcast, since he worked closely with Dr. Amen at that time. At that point I was just beginning to learn how to track and improve my own sleep. This conversation with him actually happened about a year before our interview with Dr. Kristin Holmes,[v] VP of Performance Science at WHOOP, and before I began officially measuring my sleep data with a wearable device. A few months after this interview, Dr. Creado reviewed my brain scan results from Dr. Amen's Clinics and told me that my brain showed the same pattern as someone who was sleep deprived (which we shared on EP 84[vi]). That feedback sent me searching for what else I could do to improve this crucial health staple: sleep. This episode opened the door for me to meet many other leaders in health and wellness and ultimately led to our deep dive into the six health staples that are scientifically proven to improve our mental and physical well-being. This was all years before our popular series on The Silva Method[vii] (still our most-listened-to series on this podcast), where we covered how to improve our creativity and innovation with sleep, and also before our review of The Fisher Wallace Brain Stimulator[viii] that held the top spot for years (with the topic of improving sleep). But it all really began with conversations like this one—with Dr. Shane Creado—on achieving peak performance with our sleep. So let's go back to March 2020 and revisit what Dr. Creado had to say about sleep.   VIDEO 1 – Click Here to Watch Dr. Creado reminds us that every cell in our body has its own circadian rhythm. When we understand this, it becomes clear what we need to do to support healthy sleep. He explains that historically, human sleep has been polymodal—people would sleep a few hours early in the night, wake for a bit, then sleep again in the early morning, and often nap in the afternoon. This pattern lines up with how melatonin behaves in the body: it rises at night, dips, and then shows a slight rise again in the afternoon. So when you feel sleepy after lunch, it's not just the food—it's your melatonin rising and your brain asking for a recharge. Key Takeaways from Dr. Shane Creado Dr. Creado challenges older sleep-hygiene advice that says to avoid naps altogether. In his words, that's “pretty much wrong.” Naps can be incredibly helpful—as long as you're strategic about them: Know how long you're going to nap Be deliberate about when and where you do it These are the keys to strategic napping, which we'll explore more as we revisit this powerful conversation. But first, let's put strategic napping into action. Put These Tips into Action 1. Keep Your Nap Between 10–20 Minutes (Power Nap) Short naps prevent you from dropping into deep sleep. This helps you wake up refreshed—not groggy—and boosts alertness, memory, and mood. 2. Use the 90-Minute Cycle Only When Needed A full 90-minute nap allows you to complete an entire sleep cycle. Use this only if you're: recovering from sleep debt jet-lagged coming off a night of fragmented sleep Avoid these longer naps late in the day. 3. Nap Before 3:00 PM Align your nap with the natural melatonin rise that occurs in the early afternoon. This prevents nighttime sleep disruption and supports your circadian rhythm. 4. Create a Consistent Nap Environment Set up conditions that your brain recognizes as “rest time”: dark or dim lighting comfortable temperature (lower temperatures are recommended) quiet or white noise reclining or lying down if possible Consistency trains the brain to drop into restorative rest efficiently. 5. Use a Caffeine Nap (If It Works for You) Drink a small amount of caffeine (like green tea or half a cup of coffee) immediately before a 10–20 minute nap. The caffeine kicks in right as you wake, giving you a double boost. 6. Set an Alarm Helps you avoid drifting into deep sleep and waking up groggy. This trains your brain to trust short naps and prevents oversleeping. 7. Observe Your Afternoon Melatonin Dip If you feel naturally sleepy between 1:00–3:00 PM, this is your biological nap window. Don't fight it—leverage it (if you can). 8. Don't Nap to Escape Stress Use napping as a performance tool, not an emotional coping mechanism. If you're lying down to escape anxiety, use breathwork or a 5-minute mindfulness break instead. 9. Track Your Sleep Response Everyone's nap sensitivity is unique. Track how naps affect your: nighttime sleep alertness mood work performance training or athletic performance If you want to dive deep, measure it: WHOOP, Oura, or any wearable can help determine your best nap duration and timing. 10. Combine Naps With Movement A short walk before or after a nap enhances the circadian benefit and clears residual grogginess. PUTTING THESE TIPS INTO ACTION: By now, we've all heard that napping is not a sign of laziness—it's a strategic tool for combating the sleep epidemic we're facing. Sleep deprivation can impair the brain as much as being under the influence, which is why even short, well-timed naps can play a powerful role in restoring our cognitive performance, mood, and overall health. I had to look to see what Matthew Walker[ix] (also known as the Sleep Diplomat) had to say about napping, compared to Dr. Creado's view, since I was studying both at the same time. If you look at this chart I've added in the show notes, you can see that Dr. Creado's philosophy helps you to nap for performance; (which makes sense to me since Dr. Creado advises athletes) and Matthew Walker helps you to nap without harming your nighttime sleep. His advice also made sense to me as he advises the general population, and the statistics don't lie. Most of us are sleep deprived. Both sleep experts believe in the power of taking naps, and they both lean towards napping for less than 20 minutes for power napping that avoids grogginess. While not all work environments are built to support this research, that surrounds napping before 3pm, there are companies that are embracing this research, you can Nap on the Job at These 10 Companies[x] Google PricewaterhouseCoopers Ben & Jerry's Cisco Potato Zappos Nike Uber White & Case Thrive Global If you like this option, you're in good company. Many organizations are already embracing future-focused workspaces with this research in mind. Arianna Huffington, now the founder of Thrive Global, has been one of the loudest voices calling attention to the sleep-deprivation crisis. She wrote the best-selling book The Sleep Revolution[xi] to highlight the science behind sleep and why our culture must change. Huffington points to research showing that naps boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, increase learning capacity, improve memory, and enhance our ability to perform complex tasks (Yahoo Finance). Companies adopting nap rooms and rest pods aren't being trendy—they're aligning their workplaces with well-established neuroscience and physiology. And this brings us full circle, because Dr. Shane Creado was emphasizing these same science-backed principles long before workplace culture caught up, showing us exactly how sleep—and even strategic napping—can become a powerful tool for peak performance. And here's where today's episode takes a powerful turn. We are going back to our MOST downloaded Series, The Silva Method, to now implement this method into Dr. Creado's tip for napping, to increase our creativity, innovation and productivity. The Silva Method & The 20-Minute Nap Where Creativity, Insight & Neuroscience Meet** Now that we know what to do from Dr. Creado's research—use short, strategic naps to support performance—the next step is to take this deeper and connect it to the most transformative tool that we've covered in our 7 years of hosting this podcast: The Silva Method. This is where the magic happens, as theory meets practice. What José Silva taught decades ago about guiding the brain into the Alpha state (a mental state of calm wakefulness, that is distinct from the high-frequency beta waves of a busy, alert mind) aligns perfectly with what neuroscience shows happens in a 20-minute nap. And it also explains why so many innovators—Einstein, Edison, Dalí, Tesla, Da Vinci—used structured micro-naps or “drifting states” to solve complex problems. They weren't just resting. They were deliberately entering the insight zone. Edison used metal balls to wake himself the moment he crossed into Theta (the brain state of deep relaxation that's a gateway to creativity, inspiration and new ideas). Dalí held a key over a plate for the same purpose. Einstein was known for multiple micro-naps throughout the day. Da Vinci mapped polyphasic sleep schedules to stay in that creative borderland between wake and sleep. They had discovered what both neuroscience and the Silva Method confirm: The moments between wakefulness and sleep—Alpha and early Theta—are the brain's most fertile ground for new ideas. **If you have not yet listened to the 4 PART SERIES on The Silva Method[xii], I highly encourage it as we do go into detail on HOW to start this practice, and learn how to train your brain to accomplish outstanding results that truly will shock you. How This Works? The Silva Method adds conscious intention. Before entering the Alpha, State you plant a question, problem, or intention—something that you want to solve, or learn more about. Then during the nap-like drift, the brain naturally reorganizes information, makes connections, and surfaces insights. When you return to Beta (full wakefulness), those insights often rise effortlessly. I've been doing this practice for 26+ years now, and I can tell you that it takes practice. In the beginning, I didn't have control of what was showing up on the screen of my mind during these short naps, and I had a difficult time understanding what certain things (or insight that were flashing on the screen of my mind) really meant. This will take practice, but it's well worth the time spent. A 20-minute nap and The Silva Method are using the same brain states—one intentionally, one biologically. Combined, they become a powerful creativity tool. Why This Works (Neuroscience + Silva) ✔ The brain enters Alpha/Theta — insight frequencies ✔ Cortisol drops — freeing cognitive resources ✔ The Default Mode Network activates — your “creative network” ✔ The nap resets your mental clarity ✔ The Silva Method gives the mind a specific task (whatever it is you are looking to solve). Together, they create a simple, natural protocol for breakthrough thinking. How To Use The Silva Method with a 20-Minute Nap to Improve Creativity? Here's a simple protocol that we can all use: Set an intention “Show me a solution for ___.” “Give me a creative idea for ___.” Enter Alpha (Silva Method) Use the 3–2–1 countdown or your preferred Silva relaxation method. Drift for 15–20 minutes You don't need full sleep—just hover between wake and sleep. Wake & Write Capture any images, ideas, feelings, or impressions immediately. This is truly one of the fastest ways to reset the brain, boost creativity, and spark intuition—because it aligns neuroscience with intention. The insights that you discover here are life-changing. Start writing down the ideas you “see” and “feel” and you will begin to find solutions to problems or ways forward in your daily life. VIDEO 2 Click Here to Watch Which brings us to our 2nd clip from Dr. Creado who reminds us about an important habit (that I have yet to master). Dr. Creado explains the deeper biological consequences of poor sleep with a powerful reminder: “If you immediately go to social media or your work emails as soon as you wake up, your cortisol levels are boosted even more. You go straight into danger mode and anxiety mode, and that's how you start your day.” He goes on to give an example many people don't realize the seriousness of: “Shift work actually causes fragmentation and breaks in your DNA. It sets people up for an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The World Health Organization has even designated shift work as a possible carcinogen—a cancer-causing behavior.” Most people think a few hours of lost sleep just makes them groggy or irritable, but as Dr. Creado explains, the consequences go much deeper: “This goes down to your very DNA. Sleep is your anchor. It can stave off aging. It can prevent obesity and inflammation. It can boost your immune system. It can delay menopause. It can upregulate testosterone and growth hormone levels, suppress stress hormones, and even regulate your gut flora.” This section reinforces the core theme of your episode: sleep is foundational biology—not a luxury—and optimizing it has ripple effects across every major system of the body. Key Takeaways from Dr. Shane Creado's 2nd Clip Avoid social media and emails immediately upon waking. They spike cortisol and activate “danger mode,” increasing anxiety from the moment your day begins. Shift work is biologically damaging. It fragments DNA, increases risk of heart attacks and strokes, and is recognized by the WHO as a possible carcinogen. Sleep is not optional—it's your biological anchor. It stabilizes your entire internal system, including mood, hormones, metabolism, and immunity. Poor sleep accelerates aging. Adequate sleep can slow (and even reverse) biological wear, protecting long-term health. Sleep regulates critical hormones. It boosts testosterone and growth hormone while reducing stress hormones like cortisol. Your gut depends on your sleep. Quality sleep helps maintain healthy gut flora, which influences everything from mood to inflammation to immunity. Put These Tips Into Action Here are simple, science-backed steps you can start today to optimize your sleep: 1. Protect the First 30 Minutes of Your Morning No social media No emails No news Use this time for grounding: hydration, sunlight, breathwork, or light movement. Dr. Creado is far from the only expert emphasizing this point—best-selling author Brendon Burchard includes it as one of his core High Performance Habits, reminding us that how we start our morning sets the tone for our entire day. 2. If You're a Shift Worker, Control What You Can Keep a consistent sleep–wake schedule when possible Use blackout curtains and cool temperatures Nap strategically to offset circadian disruption Prioritize sleep hygiene even more than daytime workers (This population is often overlooked. It came up with Dr. Creado, as well as with our interview with Kelly Roman how many people with shift work should be given extra support). 3. Build a Nighttime Routine That Signals “Safety” to the Brain Dim lights 60–90 minutes before bed Reduce screens Use calming cues: stretching, reading, warm shower, or meditation Keep a consistent bedtime 4. Use Strategic Napping to Lower Stress Hormones 10–20 minutes in the early afternoon Set an alarm to avoid deep-sleep grogginess A “caffeine nap” can boost alertness if well-tolerated 5. Strengthen Your Hormone Health Through Sleep Consistency Aim for 5–8.5 hours per night Regular sleep schedules support testosterone, growth hormone, and metabolic stability 6. Support Your Gut Through Rest Quality sleep = more balanced gut flora Try to eat your final meal 2–3 hours before bed Avoid heavy meals late at night 7. View Sleep as the Foundation for Everything Else Instead of seeing sleep as something to “fit in,” shift your mindset: Sleep is the strategy that makes all your other strategies work better. REVIEW AND CONCLUSION — Episode 378 PART 1 of our REVIEW with Dr. Shane Creado Key Insights From Video 1: Your Biology Wants You to Nap Dr. Creado reminded us that every cell in the body runs on its own circadian rhythm, and historically, humans slept in multiple phases—including early afternoon naps aligned with our melatonin's natural rise. He challenged outdated sleep-hygiene rules that discouraged napping and instead showed us how strategic naps—short, intentional, and well-timed—can restore energy and boost performance. We covered practical strategies for making napping work in real life, from 10–20 minute power naps to full 90-minute cycles when recovery is needed, emphasizing timing, environment, and consistency. Napping for Performance vs. Protecting Nighttime Sleep To deepen this topic, we compared Dr. Creado's approach with Matthew Walker's. Both agree that short naps (under 20 minutes) offer the best everyday benefits, though their philosophies differ: Creado teaches you to nap for performance, especially for athletes and high performers. Matthew Walker teaches you to nap without disrupting nighttime sleep, focusing on the general population. And while not all workplaces support napping, many leading companies now do—Google, Cisco, Zappos, Nike, Uber, PwC, and more—reflecting research championed by leaders like Arianna Huffington, who has long warned that sleep deprivation is a cultural crisis. Naps, she notes, improve immunity, blood pressure, learning, memory, and performance. Organizations adopting nap rooms aren't following a trend—they're following neuroscience. Key Insights From Video 2: Protect Your Morning Brain In our second clip, Dr. Creado warns about a habit many of us (including myself) struggle with: checking the phone immediately upon waking. This single behavior spikes cortisol and sends the brain into “danger mode,” setting the tone for an anxious, reactive day. He also described the biological risks of shift work—including DNA fragmentation and increased risk of heart attack and stroke—conditions serious enough that the WHO classifies shift work as a possible carcinogen. His message was clear: Sleep is your anchor. It affects aging, inflammation, immunity, hormone balance, and even gut health. Dr. Creado reminded us that sleep isn't a luxury—it's foundational biology. When we optimize sleep, we improve every system in the body: our hormones, immunity, focus, mood, and even our longevity. And when we take what he taught and combine it with the intentional practice of The Silva Method, we unlock something even more powerful. A simple 20-minute nap becomes more than rest—it becomes a doorway into the Alpha state where creativity, insight, and intuition live. This is why so many innovators throughout history used micro-naps to solve problems. The Silva Method simply adds conscious intention. And when we pair intention with the brain's natural rhythms, we create one of the most reliable pathways for breakthroughs. And watch how your best most innovative and creative ideas begin to rise to the surface.   With that thought, we will close out this episode, and we will see you next week, with PART 2 of our interview review with Dr. Creado. We have only scratched the surface of our review of this important health staple of sleep. See you next week.   REFERENCES: [i] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #261 PART 1 of Apply the Silva Method for Improved Intuition, Creativity and Focus. https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/a-deep-dive-with-andrea-samadi-into-applying-the-silva-method-for-improved-intuition-creativity-and-focus-part-1/   [ii] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #87 with Andrea Samadi on “The Top 5 Brain Health and Alzheimer's Prevention Strategies” https://www.achieveit360.com/the-top-5-brain-health-and-alzheimers-prevention-strategies-with-andrea-samadi/   [iii] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #72 with Dr. Shane Creado on “Sleep Strategies that will Guarantee a Competitive Advantage.”  https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/dr-shane-creado-on-sleep-strategies-that-will-guarantee-a-competitive-advantage/   [iv] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #71 with Dr. Shane Creado on “A Deep Dive into Dr. Creado's Peak Sleep Performance for Athletes”  https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/self-regulation-and-sleep-with-a-deep-dive-into-dr-shane-creados-peak-sleep-performance-for-athletes/   [v] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE 134 with Dr. Kristin Holmes, VP of Performance Science from Whoop.com https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/kristen-holmes-from-whoopcom-on-unlocking-a-better-you-measuring-sleep-recovery-and-strain/   [vi] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE 84 “Andrea's SPECT Image Brain Scan Results”  https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/how-a-spect-scan-can-change-your-life-part-3-with-andrea-samadi/   [vii] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #261 PART 1 of Apply the Silva Method for Improved Intuition, Creativity and Focus. https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/a-deep-dive-with-andrea-samadi-into-applying-the-silva-method-for-improved-intuition-creativity-and-focus-part-1/   [viii] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE 120 “Andrea's Personal Review of The Fisher Wallace Wearable Medical Device for Anxiety, Depression and Sleep/Stress Management” https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/personal-review-of-the-fisher-wallace-wearable-medical-device-for-anxiety-depression-and-sleepstress-management/   [ix] https://www.sleepdiplomat.com/   [x] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/nap-job-10-companies-100300632.html   [xi] https://www.amazon.com/Sleep-Revolution-Transforming-Your-Night/dp/110190402X The Sleep Revolution, Published by Arianna Huffington April 4, 2017 [xii] Neuroscience Meets Social and Emotional Learning Podcast EPISODE #261 PART 1 of Apply the Silva Method for Improved Intuition, Creativity and Focus. https://andreasamadi.podbean.com/e/a-deep-dive-with-andrea-samadi-into-applying-the-silva-method-for-improved-intuition-creativity-and-focus-part-1/  

Michelle sits down with fine art photographer, former symphony musician, and lifelong creative Lawrence D'Attilio! He reinvented himself as a visual artist whose abstract work blends photography, deconstruction, and emotion. His one-of-a-kind art is available for purchase (link below!)Larry and Michelle dive into the nature of creativity: where it comes from, how curiosity keeps the brain alive, and why artistic thinking gives entrepreneurs a competitive edge. They discuss the discomfort and magic of abstraction, the importance of self-awareness, and how curiosity can shape an entire life path. Love Social Soup? Share and subscribe! Check out Lawrence D'Attilio's fine art photography: lawrencedattilio.com Contact Lawrence's representative Bill Nerenberg to learn more about Lawrence's art and make inquiries: nerenbergbill@gmail.com Connect with Lawrence on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lawrencedattilioConnect with Michelle on LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/michelledattilio⁠  Learn more about sōsh! Visit our website and reach out at: ⁠getsosh.com  ⁠  

Welcome to the What's Next! Podcast with Tiffani Bova.    I'm excited to welcome Richard Fain to the show this week. He served as Royal Caribbean Group CEO for over three decades, leading its transformation from a small Norwegian company with three ships that held just over 700 passengers each into one of the world's largest and most profitable cruise lines with over 60 ships, including Icon of the Seas, the world's largest that carries 7,600 passengers and costs $2 billion to build. He is here to talk about his amazing book, Delivering the Wow: Culture as Catalyst for Lasting Success.    THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR…anyone leading teams or organizations who wants to understand how culture drives lasting success.    TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE…culture isn't about slogans on the wall, it's about the daily choices that shape how people feel about their work. In this episode, Richard Fain shares how he built a company culture that transformed cruising into an unforgettable experience for both guests and employees. From connecting employee bonuses to engagement metrics to turning feedback into a continuous improvement engine, Richard's insights show how culture can truly become your greatest competitive advantage.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: You don't inherit a great culture; you create it by reinforcing the right behaviors every day. When people care about their work, they perform better—and that passion becomes contagious. Real-time insights from customers and employees turn good companies into great ones.   WHAT I LOVE MOST…Richard's reminder that culture is self-sustaining when people genuinely care. You can't mandate engagement. It grows naturally when individuals see their impact, feel heard, and take pride in creating "wow" moments for others.   Running Time: 31:30   Subscribe on iTunes     Find Tiffani Online: LinkedIn Facebook X    Find Richard Online: LinkedIn   Richard's Book: Delivering the Wow: Culture as Catalyst for Lasting Success

Workslop exposes the dark side of rushed AI adoption—polished but empty output that drains productivity and trust. The cure isn't better tech, but empowering people to co-create AI tools with purpose, ownership, and real-world impact. That's the key take-away message of this episode of the Wise Decision Maker Show, which talks about how “AI workslop” is draining modern enterprises.This article forms the basis for this episode: https://disasteravoidanceexperts.com/how-ai-workslop-is-draining-modern-enterprises/

Amy Waninger is the Founder & CEO of Lead at Any Level, where she helps organizations transform their STEM professionals from reclusive nerds into inclusive leaders. Amy offers assessments, advisory services, and training on essential skills for inclusive leaders. She is the author of eight books, including Network Beyond Bias: Making Diversity a Competitive Advantage for Your Career. Amy spent twelve years working in the insurance industry, where she achieved the CPCU designation in 2016 and the Certified Insurance Data Manager (CIDM) designation in 2018. She also holds associate designations in Management, Claims, Insurance Data Analytics, Information Technology, and General Insurance. On this episode of In The Know, Chris Hampshire and Amy discuss building a business, learning how to sell yourself, and strategies that can help anyone overcome external and internal barriers.   Key Takeaways Amy's journey from small-town Indiana to CEO. Getting to the jumping point and then making the jump. Amy's decision to leave her job and build a business. Learning how to sell yourself is a continual process. How to get started on the process of writing a book. Panic can be reframed as fuel. Strategies for facing internal and external barriers. Amy's far-reaching advice to her early career self.   In the Know podcast theme music written and performed by James Jones, CPCU, and Kole Shuda of the band If-Then.   To learn more about the CPCU Society, its membership, and educational offerings, tools, and programs, please visit CPCUSociety.org.   Follow the CPCU Society on social media: X (Twitter): @CPCUSociety Facebook: @CPCUSociety LinkedIn: @The Institutes CPCU Society Instagram: @the_cpcu_society   Quotes "We spend a lot of time in the industry talking about barriers to inclusion. What if we spend some time talking about solutions?" "Enjoying the process, in addition to the results, is key." "If you want to do something so badly that you are willing to be bad at it, and get better, then you know you're doing the right thing." "I am still surprised by the depth and breadth of the impact that I've had. I had no idea global impact was even possible."  

If your daughter dreams of playing in college but you're overwhelmed by where to start, this episode breaks the process down into something clear and doable. Coach Bre talks with David Hitz, COO of Athlete Narrative, about what recruiting really looks like today and how your athlete can get noticed without expensive platforms or endless research.

View This Week's Show NotesStart Your 7-Day Trial to Mobility CoachJoin Our Free Weekly Newsletter: The AmbushBehind every great movement is a trained visual system. Your eyes aren't just for seeing — they're tools for balance, reaction, and control. When they're not working in sync with your brain and body, everything from focus to performance suffers.In this episode of The Ready State Podcast, Dr. Bryce Appelbaum — a neuro-optometrist specializing in functional vision — joins Juliet and Kelly Starrett to break down how your visual system drives everything from reaction time to recovery. He explains how training the eyes and brain together can improve coordination, balance, and focus under pressure. Whether you're coming back from a concussion or looking to level up your athletic edge, this episode will open your eyes to the hidden system behind performance.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhat functional vision training is (and how it differs from standard eye exams)Why vision is a skill — not just a senseHow concussions and screen time can disrupt your visual systemThe surprising ways vision affects posture, balance, and coordinationPractical tools to improve visual endurance and reaction timeHow athletes can train their eyes like any other muscleWhy vision issues are often misdiagnosed as ADHDKey Highlights: (00:00) - Intro(01:48) - Vision Misunderstandings(05:14) - Training Eyesight Without Glasses(10:27) - Identifying Children's Vision Problems(15:44) - Causes of Reading Fatigue(18:54) - Increasing Vision Changes Trends(23:33) - Healthy Vision Training Routine(27:35) - Sponsor: Momentous(30:29) - Sponsor: LMNT(32:45) - Duration for Effective Vision Training(38:02) - Secrets to Regular Bowel Movements(44:06) - Understanding Concussions(50:30) - Getting Help for Concussions(53:20) - Functional Vision as a Competitive Advantage(56:20) - Finding Dr. BryceSponsorsThis episode of The Ready State Podcast is brought to you by LMNT and Momentous.