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Apple Watch users regain blood oxygen tracking via iPhone processing, while panelists debate its impact on Apple's legal fight with Massimo. Security warnings about Plex servers and ESR power banks serve as public service announcements. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, and Web Bixby then turn their attention to Apple Card's slip in customer satisfaction rankings and what may be driving the change, from savings account rates to loyalty points. Today's MacVoices is supported by Insta360 and their new GO Ultra, the tiny 4K camera that goes everywhere with you. Visit store.Insta360.com and use the come “MacVoices” for a free set of Sticky Tabs. Show Notes: Chapters: [0:07] Podcast introduction [5:23] Public service announcements: Plex and ESR power banks [7:45] Blood oxygen tracking returns to Apple Watch [13:30] Massimo lawsuit discussion and market analysis [15:38] Vision Pro Disney+ Alien Earth experience [19:25] Apple Card satisfaction report and reactions [26:23] Broader credit card satisfaction insights Links: Why You Need to Update Your Plex Server ASAP https://lifehacker.com/tech/update-your-plex-server-asap If You Have One of These ESR Power Banks, Stop Using It ASAP https://lifehacker.com/tech/esr-power-bank-recall Apple Watch gets reformulated, non-patent-infringing blood oxygen monitoring https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/08/redesigned-blood-oxygen-monitoring-returns-to-apple-watch-following-patent-dispute/ Explore the Disney+ 'Alien: Earth' immersive environment with the Apple Vision Pro now https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/08/16/explore-the-disney-alien-earth-immersive-environment-with-the-apple-vision-pro-now?utm_source=rss Apple Card drops from first place to third place for overall credit card customer satisfaction Apple Card drops from first place to third place for overall credit card customer satisfaction https://appleworld.today/2025/08/apple-card-drops-from-first-place-to-third-place-for-overall-credit-card-customer-satisfaction/ Guests: Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky. Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at embolden@mac.com, on Mastodon at @eabolden@techhub.social, on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast. Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @brian8944@mastodon.cloud. Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer's Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @jgamet@mastodon.social on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet. David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @daveg65@mastodon.cloud. Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,' including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC). Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He's been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @provuejim@techhub.social on Mastodon. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon http://patreon.com/macvoices Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web: http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Mastodon: https://mastodon.cloud/@chuckjoiner Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe: Audio in iTunes Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode of the Real Estate Pro Show, host Erika speaks with John Kabourakis, the owner of Fortified Roofing, about his journey in the roofing industry, the challenges he faced, and the innovations he has implemented in his business. John shares insights on the importance of quality craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and the role of technology in modern roofing. He also discusses common misconceptions in the industry, the competitive landscape, and the significance of building strong relationships with vendors and customers. Looking ahead, John emphasizes the need for continuous adaptation and the exciting future of Fortified Roofing as they embrace new opportunities. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
AI, IVR, and the Human Touch in Contact Centers Shep interviews Mark Rohan, Co-Founder and COO of Klearcom. He discusses the importance of balancing digital and human support, and how embracing AI and change can lead to world-class customer service. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: Why do many customers still prefer voice support over digital self-service or AI solutions? What percentage of customers are likely to leave a company after a negative experience with automated phone systems? How can companies use technology to detect and resolve customer service issues in real time? Why is it important for companies to offer both digital and human support options? What role does artificial intelligence play in modern customer support? Top Takeaways: The customer experience begins the moment you first attempt to communicate with a business, whether through a chatbot, a phone call, or an email. Every interaction creates the customer's impression of the organization. Be easy to do business with right from the very beginning. Tools like Interactive Voice Response (IVR) menus and AI chatbots can make the difference between customer satisfaction and frustration. Studies show that around 73% of people will avoid a business if they have a bad encounter with an automated phone menu. That means companies could lose customers before they even have a chance to help them. No matter how good AI and digital options become, there will always be moments when people want to talk to another person. AI and digital options may deliver the quickest response for routine or predictable issues that customers encounter day to day. However, when issues are urgent or sensitive, most customers prefer to hear a reassuring human voice. Businesses that stick with doing things "the way we've always done it" put themselves at risk of falling behind. Adapting to new technologies, even if it feels uncomfortable, keeps companies competitive and relevant. Customers don't just compare one business to its direct competitors. Instead, they compare every interaction to the very best experience they've ever had, no matter where that was. If another company makes things quick and easy, customers expect you to do the same. Companies must continuously strive to be proactive, responsive, and raise their own standards. Every issue that a customer encounters is an opportunity to be memorable and to create loyalty. If a problem occurs and is resolved quickly and kindly, customers may trust the company even more than if nothing had gone wrong. Plus, Shep and Mark discuss what world-class brands are doing differently when it comes to integrating technology into their processes. Tune in! Quote: "Everybody remembers the poor experiences, but very few people remember the good ones. You can't always deliver a perfect customer experience, but you do your best to deliver the best you possibly can." About: Mark Rohan is the Co-Founder and COO of Klearcom. He has 20 years of experience in telecom and IT, and is a strong advocate for seamless customer experiences. Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A growing number of AI startups and tech companies are adopting a grueling 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. six-day work schedule and calling it the new formula for winning. But what does this mean for the employees expected to sustain that pace and for the customers who depend on their service quality, empathy, and problem-solving? In this episode, Stacy Sherman examines the facts behind this extreme approach, shares her expert view from a customer experience perspective, and explains why chasing short-term gains at the expense of employee well-being ultimately damages customer experience. You will hear what leaders can do right now to keep teams energized, engaged, and consistently delivering fast, accurate, and caring customer interactions. Her insights will challenge how you think about productivity and leave you with actions to preserve employee well-being while ensuring customers receive the level of service that drives loyalty and long-term revenue. Listen now to get ahead of a change that could define the future of your workplace. Learn more at Book time with Stacy through this
The Intuitive Customer - Improve Your Customer Experience To Gain Growth
In this milestone episode, The Intuitive Customer undergoes a transformation. Colin Shaw announces a step back from the regular hosting role, prompting a fresh chapter in the podcast's evolution. Hosts Colin Shaw and Professor Ryan Hamilton introduce two new expert contributors — Dr. Morgan Ward, a consumer psychologist, and Ben Shaw, a brand strategist — to bring fresh perspectives on customer behavior, brand experience, and the future of CX. Together, the four hosts discuss the state of customer experience today, particularly in light of the stagnant growth in the American Customer Satisfaction Index over the past three decades. They debate metrics versus meaning, the enduring value of physical retail, and the coming wave of non-visual AI-driven brand interactions. The episode sets the stage for a broader, more dynamic take on what it means to truly understand and serve customers in the modern age. Quote of the Episode "We're using metrics that are more relevant to the business than to the person actually experiencing the brand." — Dr. Morgan Ward Key Takeaways Customer satisfaction has plateaued: The American Customer Satisfaction Index has barely moved in 30 years, despite huge investments in CX. This calls into question the effectiveness of current CX strategies. ROI needs to be central: CX professionals must link experience improvements directly to financial returns if they want continued investment. Metrics can be misleading: Overly relying on simplified metrics like NPS can lead organizations astray, especially when they're gamed or don't reflect real consumer emotions. Retail is making a comeback: Resurgence in physical retail's emotional power especially among younger consumers who crave tactile experiences. The future is voice-first: How AI-driven, non-visual brand experiences will redefine customer interaction demanding new forms of design thinking. Dual focus is key: Brands must balance operational improvements today with strategic planning for a fast-approaching future filled with disruptive technologies. Resources Mentioned American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI): www.acsi.org — Independent benchmark of customer satisfaction in the U.S. since 1994. About the Hosts: Colin Shaw is a LinkedIn 'Top Voice' with a massive 284,000 followers and 87,000 subscribers to his 'Why Customers Buy' newsletter. Shaw is named one of the world's 'Top 150 Business Influencers' by LinkedIn. His company, Beyond Philosophy LLC, has been selected four times by the Financial Times as a top management consultancy. Shaw is co-host of the top 1.5% podcast 'The Intuitive Customer'—with over 600,000 downloads—and author of eight best-sellers on customer experience, Shaw is a sought-after keynote speaker. Follow Colin on LinkedIn. Ryan Hamilton is a Professor of Marketing at Emory University's Goizueta Business School and co-author of 'The Intuitive Customer' book. An award-winning teacher and researcher in consumer psychology, he has been named one of Poets & Quants' "World's Best 40 B-School Profs Under 40." His research focuses on how brands, prices, and choice architecture influence shopper decision-making, and his findings have been published in top academic journals and covered by major media outlets like The New York Times and CNN. His work highlights how psychology can help firms better understand and serve their customers. Ryan has a new book called “The Growth Dilemma: Managing Your Brand When Different Customers Want Different Things” Harvard Business Press 2025 Follow Ryan on LinkedIn. Ben Shaw Ben Shaw is Chief Strategy Officer at MullenLowe UK, having also led strategy at BBH and worked client-side with fast-growth start-ups Wheely and Unmind. He's passionate about how brands can challenge culture convention and create ideas people want to spend time with, working on brands like Audi, Google and Burger King. Beyond advertising, Ben champions mental health awareness and rare disease research, drawing on both personal experience and professional curiosity. Follow Ben Shaw Morgan Ward Morgan Ward, Ph.D. is a marketing scholar and former professor at Emory University and Southern Methodist University, with over two decades of expertise in consumer behavior and branding. She's worked with clients ranging from start-ups to global brands, helping them translate behavioral science into strategies that resonate in culture and drive growth. Her academic research explores status, symbolism, and the psychology of consumption, and she has served as an expert witness in federal trademark and trade dress cases. Beyond her academic and consulting work, Morgan is fascinated by how cultural shifts shape what people desire, and how brands can both reflect and influence those desires. Follow Morgan on LinkedIn Subscribe & Follow Apple Podcasts Spotify
Is customer experience (CX) the NEW marketing? Or has it always been? Marketing gets people in the door. Customer experience decides if they stay. Every ad, every touchpoint, every promise—it's all CX. So why do so many companies still treat them as separate? In this episode of Doing CX Right, Stacy Sherman and Nicole Donnelly challenge this outdated mindset. They discuss why great marketing fails without great customer experience, how AI is reshaping market research, and why data alone isn't enough. Plus, hear how one brand drove real growth by putting experience first—and how you can apply the same strategies to your business. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy .
In this episode of Confessions of a B2B Entrepreneur, Jeff Rudner, host of 5 to 50: Financial Strategies for Growing Companies, interviews Tom Hunt, Founder and CEO of Fame, to reveal how he built a B2B podcast agency to £4M ARR without external funding. Tom shares lessons from 17 previous business attempts, emphasizing the critical role of financial discipline and the power of hyper-focus on core services. Discover his unique risk assessment framework, practical EOS implementation, and the vital role of culture in scaling. This episode delivers actionable strategies on cash flow, profitability, operational efficiency, and team incentives, demonstrating why doing less exceptionally well is the key to lasting growth.
How does employee experience impact customer referrals and brand reputation? Disgruntled former employees sharing negative experiences can deter potential customers, causing revenue loss and reputational damage. This insightful episode uncovers the critical connection between employee treatment and customer advocacy. Stacy Sherman and employee advocate Dan Goodman reveal strategies to foster an empowering workplace culture cultivating loyalty. Gain tactics for respectful terminations preventing detractors. Explore case studies on how leadership and corporate values influence customer experiences directly. Learn to create a win-win environment where engaged employees become brand ambassadors, driving positive referrals and shielding your reputation. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy .
Are you focusing on the right customers? Is your culture creating consistent customer value? Are you leading in ways that actually drive results? In this episode of Doing CX Right®, Stacy Sherman shares five standout takeaways from her conversation with marketing legend Seth Godin. Most brands get customer experience wrong. Seth and Stacy reveal what to do instead—clear, actionable insights that challenge outdated thinking and support long-term growth. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
Is it worth decorating your office or retail space with flowers? Do they actually do anything? In this brief but insightful discussion, we reveal how those humble floral arrangements can actually impact your bottom line.Insight from: https://botanicaleden.com/ Botanical Eden City: West Jordan Address: 5197 W. Wells Park Rd. Website: https://www.botanicaleden.com/
In this episode, James Lawther and Jimmy Barber delve into the topic of innovation, dispelling common misconceptions and emphasising its true value in enhancing performance and enjoyment at work. They share personal experiences and discuss both successful and failed innovations, highlighting the importance of involving all employees in the innovation process. They then also discuss the necessary cultural and procedural changes required to create a genuinely innovative environment. Tune in for practical tips on generating ideas, testing them, and scaling successful innovations. Don't just leave it to the 'Innovation Team', everyone has a role to play!Got a question - get in touch. Click here.
Are your customers truly delighted, or are company silos preventing your understanding their unspoken desires? How can you transition from providing adequate service to delivering exceptional, memorable experiences through effective design? Stacy Sherman and featured guest Katie Webb, Head of Transformation and Innovation at Aflac, share strategies to help you understand customer needs, the power of experience design, and ways to foster cross-team collaboration. Discover how everyone in your company can play a role in enhancing customer interactions and driving business success. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy .
Many business leaders believe emotional connection is unquantifiable and too fluffy to produce real results. This episode of Doing CX Right challenges that view. Stacy Sherman and Patrick McCullough of Hallmark Business Connections reveal how emotional engagement directly influences revenue, retention, and customer loyalty. Listen to how a retailer's handwritten card campaign to one million top customers outperformed all other marketing campaigns. Discover how a tool empowered call center teams to turn everyday interactions into loyalty-building experiences. If you think emotions can't be measured—or don't affect your bottom line—this episode proves otherwise. Connect with and learn more about innovative approaches to customer experience: Website & Resources: Got questions for Stacy Sherman, reach out at Book time with Stacy through this Access FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous
Summary In this episode of the Customer Service Revolution podcast, John DiJulius discusses the importance of the Customer Experience Action Statement and its role in transforming organizational culture. He explains how this statement serves as a guiding principle for employees in their interactions with customers, emphasizing the need for actionable and measurable goals. The conversation delves into the structure of the statement, the three pillars that support it, and provides examples from various organizations. John also highlights the significance of sustaining the action statement over time and the role of kindness in enhancing customer experiences. Takeaways The Customer Experience Action Statement is crucial for employee engagement. It should be actionable and measurable for effective implementation. The three pillars of the action statement are expertise, human interaction, and above and beyond service. Creating a customer experience action statement involves collaboration and clarity. Sustaining the action statement requires ongoing training and reminders. Kindness plays a vital role in customer interactions and overall experience. Companies should focus on making every moment matter for their customers. The action statement should be visible to employees but not advertised to customers. Regularly refreshing the action statement keeps it top of mind for employees. Customer experience is a continuous journey, not a one-time initiative. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Customer Experience Revolution 01:56Understanding the Customer Experience Action Statement 06:52The Structure of the Customer Experience Action Statement 11:02Examples of Effective Customer Experience Action Statements 16:13Implementing and Sustaining the Action Statement 20:53The Importance of Keeping It Top of Mind 24:44Final Thoughts on Kindness and Customer Experience Links Six Reasons Your CX Plummets When Your Business Skyrockets, and How to Fix It: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/download-reasons-your-customer-experience-plummets/ Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Interview Questions: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/resources/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Experience Revolution Membership: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors: tdg.click/claudia Secret Service Blog: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/secret-service-turns-20-and-the-dijulius-group-is-born-with-superior-customer-service-as-the-single-biggest-competitive-advantage/ Books Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.
What does it mean to be 'hooked on customers?' How does it propel businesses into action? Stacy Sherman and Bob Thompson, author, and CEO of Customer Think Corp, explore customer-centric businesses and examine how they execute strategies and outperform competitors that you can do too. Learn the five key habits of customer-centric businesses and why having a clear brand purpose is crucial for CX success. Uncover the truth about linking customer metrics to employee pay and why consistency in leadership behavior is the biggest differentiator in CX performance. There are no quick fixes. Customer-centricity takes time, determination, and company-wide commitment. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy .
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff and fellow Canadian shop owner Mike Pereira discuss industry challenges, such as the flat-rate pay system at dealerships, emphasizing how it discourages teamwork and impacts job satisfaction. Both Jeff and Mike highlight the importance of ongoing technical and business training in today's rapidly changing industry and discuss the need for better collaboration and transparency among local shop owners.00:00 Some Sports Take WAYYYY Too Long10:25 Unfair Work Distribution Observed11:50 Turn Up the Radio Solution16:02 Flat Rate Challenges in Learning22:29 Shared Experiences in the Industry30:46 "Highly Recommend Brian's Class"34:48 Valuing Time Over Money38:23 Supportive Owners Embrace Change45:26 Selective Customer Intake Strategy49:10 Evaluating Vehicle Part Quality57:10 Car Enthusiast's Euro Car Insights01:01:08 Unfair Work Conditions at Dealership01:05:20 Proactive Work Culture Insights01:08:18 Training Adjustments at Work01:18:02 Digital Tread & Rotor Measurement01:20:28 Vehicle Inspection Photo Transparency01:25:41 Trust Car Claims Carefully01:30:41 Focus on Business Skills, Not Tech Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232
Today's guest is Carolene Méli, a ghostwriter for live entertainment executives and whose career has been anything but predictable.She started out studying nutrition, but what followed was a 20-year adventure in the live entertainment world. Carolene spent 11 of those years as the Guest Experience Manager of VIP Experiences at Cirque du Soleil, traveling to 17 countries, managing six different shows, and creating magical behind-the-scenes moments for audiences across the globe.Then—like so many of us—the pandemic flipped everything upside down.Carolene gets real about what it was like to lose a job she loved, face the uncertainty of solopreneurship, and navigate the deeply humbling moment of asking her parents for financial help. But her story doesn't stop there. With the help of therapy, community, and a ghostwriting mastermind, she found her footing again—this time, by helping top-tier execs in entertainment shape their personal brand and voice on LinkedIn.If you've ever had to rebuild, reroute, or reinvent yourself completely, this one's for you. Carolene's story is packed with honesty, courage, and the kind of hope you might need to hear right now.Episode TakeawaysCarolene Méli unique career journey from nutrition to ghostwritingHer 11-year experience with Cirque du Soleil and the leadership and storytelling skills she developedThe impact of the pandemic on her career and the pivot to solopreneurshipThe emotional and financial challenges that come with starting over—especially asking for helpThe role of therapy in her healing and professional rebirthHow community and collaboration (like a ghostwriting mastermind) helped her growLessons in resilience, reinvention, and letting go of "shoulds"Why personal branding matters, especially for execs in creative industriesConnect with CaroleneLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolenemeli/ Thanks for listening to The Career Flipper!If you enjoyed this episode, let's spread the word! Share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps other career flippers find the show.Let's Stay Connected:Join the community: thecareerflipper.comTikTok: @thecareerflipperInstagram: @thecareerflipperpodGot a career flip story? I'd love to hear it—and maybe even have you on the podcast! Whether you've completed your flip, are just starting, or are in the thick of it, submit your story here: https://www.thecareerflipper.com Want to support the show?Looking for a speaker? I'd love to talk about career changes at your next event.Collaborate through sponsorships or affiliates! Let's work together.Email me: hello@thecareerflipper.comCheck Out My Customer Service CoursesBefore my career flip, I led customer experience teams and created online courses that have helped over 12,000 students worldwide. Whether you're switching to customer service or sharpening your skills to run your own business, these courses are packed with practical tips. Learn more at thecareerflipper.com/courses.Other Ways to Get Involved:Buy me a coffee!Explore my furniture flipsMusic CreditsSeason 1: Intro and outro music by audionautix.com. Season 2: Intro and outro original music by Jenny Dempsey, recorded in a home studio.What's the best that could happen?
How do you build a high-performance culture without turning your company into the Hunger Games? Reed Hastings, co-founder and former CEO of Netflix, shares lessons from a career spent rewriting the rules—from severance as a management tool to “big-hearted champions who pick up the trash.” In this episode, he reveals how Netflix scaled trust, made bold bets before the data was in, and kept its edge by treating employees like adults—not assets. You'll hear how Hastings evaluates talent beyond the interview, the reason he avoids performance improvement plans, and what most leaders misunderstand about judgment, feedback, and innovation. You'll also hear why he placed a $100 million bet on House of Cards with no pilot, how Drive to Survive changed an entire sport, and why Squid Game caught even Netflix by surprise. Now focused on a new chapter—owning a ski mountain, reshaping education through AI tutors, and supporting charter schools—Hastings is still doing what he does best: building systems that scale culture, not just product. If you care about performance without politics—or culture without the clichés—this is a blueprint from one of the clearest thinkers in modern business. Approximate timestamps: Subject to variation due to dynamically inserted ads: (3:09) Powder Mountain, Skiing Industry, & Buying a Mountain (6:36) Setting Culture in an Organization (9:21) Hiring Process and Evaluating Candidates (14:24) Netflix's 2009 Slide Deck Release (16:26) Talent Density and Performance Culture (17:59) Loyalty and Team Building (19:56) Severance Packages (22:17) Process Vs. Innovation (24:21) Preventing Bureaucracy from Creeping In (25:46) Identifying and Nurturing Good Judgment (26:40) Transition from CEO to Board Member (27:37) Competitive Landscape of Online Streaming (29:18) Role of Netflix in Driving Industry Interest (31:25) Handling Controversy: The Dave Chappelle Case (33:59) Inclusiveness and DEI in the Workplace (35:10) Customer Satisfaction and Operating Income (36:06) Decision Making in Content Acquisition: House of Cards (37:28) Creating vs Buying Content (38:46) Data Collection and User Preferences (40:32) AI in Netflix and Personal Use (42:33) AI in Education (45:12) Charter Schools and Importance of Education (48:07) Charter Schools and Government Control (52:34) Misconceptions and Personal Projects (53:25) Admiration for Bill Gates (55:04) Work-Life Integration (56:59) Reflections on Career and Obsession (59:12) The Netflix Keeper Test (1:00:38) Learning from Past Experiences at Pure Software (1:02:27) Challenges and Regrets at Pure Software (1:03:38) Role of the Board in Founder-led Companies (1:04:49) Venture Capital Experiences and Insights (1:05:31) Defining Moments and Openness to New Experiences (1:06:14) First Product Excitement: The Foot Mouse (1:07:19) Definition of Success Thanks to our sponsors for supporting this episode: NORDVPN: To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan go to nordvpn.com/KNOWLEDGEPROJECT. Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan. There's no risk with Nord's 30 day money-back guarantee! MOMENTOUS: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com and use code KNOWLEDGEPROJECT for 35% off your first subscription. Newsletter - The Brain Food newsletter delivers actionable insights and thoughtful ideas every Sunday. It takes 5 minutes to read, and it's completely free. Learn more and sign up at fs.blog/newsletter Upgrade — If you want to hear my thoughts and reflections at the end of the episode, join our membership: fs.blog/membership and get your own private feed. Watch on YouTube: @tkppodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Your customer says they're “satisfied.” So why didn't they come back? Stacy Sherman—a global keynote speaker and advisor with over 25 years of experience improving customer experience at leading B2B and B2C companies—challenges a metric many businesses still rely on: Customer Satisfaction (CSAT). She explains how CSAT became the standard, why it made sense in the past, yet no longer reflects what creates true customer loyalty today. “Satisfied” usually means nothing went wrong—but that's not enough to earn retention, repeat purchases, or referrals. If CSAT is still guiding your strategy, this episode will show you what it's missing—and what to measure instead. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
In this episode, Adrian Palmer, professor of marketing at Henley Business School, discusses his research, published in IJRM, on anticipation in consumer behavior. He focuses on the often-overlooked period between the moment of purchase and the experience of the product or service. This "anticipation effect" plays a significant role in shaping customer satisfaction and overall perception. Palmer shares insights into the cognitive and emotional processes at play during this time and explains how marketers can strategically leverage anticipation to enhance the customer experience.
Where do empathy and compassion impact corporate profits, employee experience, and customer satisfaction? In healthcare, and yes, in your industry, no matter what it is, it starts at the local level, as my guest today shares. Today, Geoffrey Smith and I talk about his journey as an employee experience professional in healthcare, but how he didn't really understand his work or purpose until he saw it through the patient's eyes during his wife's cancer battle, and how the power of human connection relates to patient and customer outcomes. Geoffrey shares why annual employee pulse surveys are not the most actionable, and instead create more continual feedback loops to identify high-performing leaders and teams at the local level so you can replicate their actions and achieve company-wide engagement. He offers practical examples of how busy leaders can check in with employees and achieve measurable results. To access the episode transcript, please search for the episode title at www.TheEmpathyEdge.comKey Takeaways:Innovation happens in big and small ways. You can change someone's life with low-tech solutions that only require being present in the moment.Employee engagement is a local phenomenon. It's not an organizational metric, it's a team metric - where the work happens.Checking in with your employees weekly doubles the engagement of checking in monthly. Measuring team by team in real time will allow you to know where your teams are shining and where they are struggling. "Keep your eyes open and stay authentically present, because you never know when those small moments are going to change everything." — Geoffrey SmithFrom Our Partner:SparkEffect partners with organizations to unlock the full potential of their greatest asset: their people. Through their tailored assessments and expert coaching at every level, SparkEffect helps organizations manage change, sustain growth, and chart a path to a brighter future.Go to sparkeffect.com/edge now and download your complimentary Professional and Organizational Alignment Review today.About Geoffrey Smith, Chief Mo-ment OfficerGeoffrey leverages a diverse 25+ year career in Human Capital Management, specializing in employee engagement, leadership development, and culture change initiatives in the workplace. His journey has ranged from working for the corporate industry leader to building his entrepreneurial start-up from the ground up. Currently, he supports innovative employee/patient/caregiver/human experience leaders, nurse and clinician entrepreneurs, and hospital administration, consulting them on modernized people and talent activation strategies to make a true impact on those who both provide and receive care.Geoffrey also hosts the Mo-ments of Experience podcast on the People Forward Network. Inspired by his faithful 14-year-old beagle Mo, whose unwavering spirit and love lifted his family during challenging times, the Mo-ments of Experience podcast highlights the meaningful Mo-ments that shape us, move, and inspire us to pursue our purpose.Connect with Geoffrey:Mo-ments of Experience, LLC: mo-mentsofexperience.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/geoffreypsmith Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books on empathy: Red-Slice.com/booksLearn more about Maria's work: Red-Slice.comHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Course! Leading with EmpathyLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceThreads: @redslicemariaWe would love to get your thoughts on the show! Please click https://bit.ly/edge-feedback to take this 5-minute survey, thanks!
Is customer experience still a true brand differentiator—or has it lost momentum? Across industries, customer experience (CX) is under pressure. While many companies claim to put customers first, the reality often tells a different story: broken systems, disconnected teams, and blurred ownership are hindering meaningful progress. Stacy Sherman and guest Sean Albertson take a direct look at what's going wrong and offer a path forward with clear, practical steps leaders can apply now. They also introduce a new CX community—created to connect professionals, exchange ideas, and reinforce the value of customer experience as a core business discipline. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss their recent experiences with home improvement projects, the importance of customer service, and the value of communication in building strong client relationships. They share personal anecdotes about their hobbies, including yard work and gardening, and reflect on the significance of going the extra mile in service. The discussion also highlights the necessity of asking for reviews to enhance business visibility and reputation. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss the importance of going above and beyond for clients in various service industries, emphasizing the significance of communication, setting expectations, and the impact of customer reviews. They share personal anecdotes from their experiences in landscaping and food service, highlighting how thoughtful gestures can enhance client satisfaction. The discussion also touches on the necessity of tracking services and the role of consumer expectations in shaping experiences. Ultimately, they conclude that effective communication and a commitment to over-delivering are essential for success in any service-oriented business.
Customer experience & customer service are important for long-term success, yet they are not interchangeable. Stacy Sherman and Max Ball, Principal Analyst at Forrester, discuss the differences and leadership best practices so you are doing both right. You'll also hear new trends to be mindful of and plan for, including gig CX, artificial intelligence, chatbots, and other technologies to solve customer needs versus creating pain points. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
In this episode, Braxton Critcher shares the latest news from the automotive repair industry. He discusses a new tax bill passed by the House Ways and Means Committee that offers significant benefits to repair shops and small businesses, including a permanent 23% income deduction and relief on equipment investments. Braxton also highlights the unusual situation of one Brooklyn repair shop, which received hundreds of 311 complaints from a single individual over minor sidewalk infractions, prompting community support for the business. Finally, he spotlights Christian Brothers Automotive for being ranked number one in customer satisfaction by the J.D. Power Aftermarket Success Index for the sixth consecutive year.
Don't Miss SPF Live at My Gym in NJ on July 18th and 19th!https://events.vincegabriele.com/july2025 In this episode of the Ask Vince Podcast, Vince keeps it real, sharing no-nonsense insights that every fitness business owner needs to hear. He kicks off by spotlighting the upcoming Mastermind Event on July 18th and 19th at Gabriele Fitness—a game-changing experience designed to help you maximize your gym's revenue, keep clients longer, and build a rock-solid community.But this episode isn't just about making money—it's about mindset, accountability, and making your health a priority. Whether you're crushing it or barely keeping your head above water, Vince's honest, straight-talk approach will hit home. Key Topics Discussed:1. Mastermind Event Announcement:Vince breaks down what you can expect at the event, including powerful strategies for increasing your gym's lifetime customer value. If you're serious about your business, this is a can't-miss opportunity. 2. Understanding Lifetime Customer Value (LCV):Vince gets into the nitty-gritty of how to boost your revenue through three main drivers:Stay Longer: Proven ways to keep your clients coming back.Pay More: Smart pricing strategies that don't scare clients away.Refer More: How to turn your happiest clients into your biggest advocates. 3. The Power of Accountability:You don't need more yes-men. You need friends who aren't afraid to call you out when you're slacking. Vince talks about the value of having people in your life who keep you honest—whether it's about your business or your personal health. 4. Health as an Asset or Liability:Vince pulls no punches as he explains why business owners often let their health fall apart and how this can destroy your success. It's a wake-up call for anyone who thinks they can “figure it out later. 5. Value Over Price:Stop fixating on what you charge—start obsessing over the value you deliver. Vince shares how creating memorable experiences and personalized touches can keep clients around for years. Don't Miss SPF Live at My Gym in NJ on July 18th and 19th!https://events.vincegabriele.com/july2025 If you're a gym owner seeking answers on how you can grow your gym, make more money, and have more freedom to do what you love, visit www.vincegabriele.com or book a call by CLICKING HERE!
In this episode, I speak to Jody Appolis, airport engineer who heads NACO's business development unit in sub-Saharan Africa and Adam Ekman Pedersen who is Airport Commerce and customer experience lead. Supported by the infographic below, we are focused on African airports and the hot topic of non-aeronautical revenues. We look at how Africa compares to the global average and discuss some potential solutions to address this. Together, we discuss: The difference between aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues How does Africa compare to the global average in terms of the ratio between the two? Does the overperformance of duty-free in Africa indicate a lack of decent alternative shopping or simply a compelling duty-free offering? How can the retail offering be improved and what role does the customer experience play in developing non-aeronautical revenues? How do we cater for Gen Z travellers and their preferences? CONNECT WITH JODY CONNECT WITH ADAM
Returning guest Rich Mironov is a B2B product management legend, long-time blogger and author of "The Art of Product Management". He's recently moved to Portugal to sample the best of European product culture, and is currently actively coaching and mentoring product leaders. His goal is to help them understand what business leaders really care about and ensure that they make an impact by speaking the same language as the rest of the executive suite. Episode highlights: 1. No one in the leadership team cares about how products are made; they care about making money We product people can often be so in love with our craft and our terminology that we forget that no one else wants to hear it. We need to craft a narrative that moves beyond esoteric, fuzzy concepts about delight and happiness. These are important, but not as important to the leadership team as how those things make money for the company. We need to get off our high horses and meet our stakeholders where they are, just like we would with our users. 2. Product Managers need to know how their product and their company make money Too many product managers are not aware of how their company makes money, how things are priced and packaged, and the effect that this will have on the types of decisions they can make. We need to up our game when it comes to financial literacy and understand the growth levers that we can pull if we want to have an impact at the top level. 3. It's important to build internal coalitions to get support early, rather than being the one person who dissents It's always hard when there's a seemingly blockbuster deal on the table that has big revenue numbers attached, but is going to derail the roadmap for months. It's important to understand the positions of other non-product stakeholders and get their buy-in so that you're not the only person against the deal. Make sure you build bridges with your colleagues and go in with a united front. 4. Learn to tell "Money Stories" to get alignment around your roadmap and calculate the true cost of trade-offs There are four different types of money stories: Cost savings, Upselling, New Market and Customer Satisfaction. These all use simple heuristics to sense-check the revenue impact of any initiative. Product people can get obsessed with accuracy, but your colleagues are guesstimating all their numbers, so get comfortable with directionally correct numbers. You can still make prioritisation debates clearer by "counting the digits" or comparing orders of magnitude. 5. Organisational context is everything, so you need to understand it There are big differences between how Private Equity-funded and Venture Capital-funded startups work. They have different timeframes, different goals and, ultimately, a different mindset. There's no right or wrong here, simply an acknowledgement that your company's investment context will dramatically impact the types of decisions the leadership team will make. If you know this context, it can help you make better decisions (as well as decide whether it's the type of company you want to work for) Check out Rich's essay "Business Cases are Stories about Money" Rich's original essay, which has led to conference talks as well as this interview, can be found here: https://www.mironov.com/moneystories/ Buy "The Art of Product Management (2nd edition)" "The Art of Product Management takes us inside the head of a product management thought leader. With color and humor, Rich Mironov gives us a taste of Silicon Valley's tireless pursuit of great technology and its creation of new products. He provides strategic advice to product managers and tech professionals about start-ups, big organizations, how to think like a customer, and what things should cost. He also reminds us to love our products and our teams." Check it out on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Product-Management-Second-Innovator-ebook/dp/B0CVL45F36. Contact Rich You can catch up with Rich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richmironov/. Or check out his website: https://mironov.com.
Executive escalations are becoming more frequent—and damaging. In this episode, Stacy Sherman exposes the hidden patterns behind these high-impact customer moments and why they're often signs of deeper issues across teams, systems, and culture. She shares practical strategies to prevent escalations before they start, drawn from her own leadership experience and an eye-opening conversation with Pablo Payet, Customer Experience and Success Specialist at Granicus. You'll hear a real story of a customer with seven unresolved tickets and the internal scramble that followed—plus how to build CX frameworks that create consistency, ownership, and trust at scale. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
In this episode, join Tim Ernest, Senior Manager, Customer Parts, Toyota and Matt Ver Meer, Vice President, Operations, DHL Supply Chain as they discuss a customer-centric approach, insights into after-hours delivery, white glove service and our Carrier of the Year award.
What if the way you measure customer support is setting your team up to fail? What if prioritizing speed is costing you real relationships? And what if the real customer experience (CX) advantage isn't more tech, but a culture where teams are actually happy to help? In this episode, Stacy Sherman and Priscilla Brooke share bold strategies to move beyond reactive service and redefine it as true customer success. You'll learn how to use employee well-being as a KPI, foster cross-functional collaboration, and implement AI in ways that enhance—not replace—your team's impact. If you're serious about creating loyalty—not just closing tickets—this conversation will change how you lead. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!In this episode, you'll get to meet Tekmetric's new COO! Lauren Langston shares her journey from a software-focused background to joining the automotive industry, emphasizing her desire to deliver better technology tailored to the auto repair industry. Braxton and Lauren also get into the trust gap between consumers and auto repair shops, highlighting how transparency and the right technology can help bridge that divide. 00:00 Vertical SaaS in Professional Services04:02 Consumer Distrust in Auto Repair09:13 Enhancing Customer Trust Through Tech12:06 Tekmetric's Brand and Founder Impact14:59 Managing Tech Change in Business20:19 "Founders Drive Continuous Innovation"21:10 Tekmetric's Next-Level Customer Focus24:25 "Aligning Customer Needs with Offerings"27:47 Auto Industry's Vast Opportunities31:46 Building Tech with Industry Experts
In this episode, Braxton Critcher covers some of the most pressing developments in the automotive repair industry. He highlights SEMA's recent appeal to President Trump for a transition period before new tariffs impact US automotive parts manufacturers. Braxton also discusses controversial bills in Missouri that could exempt many newer vehicles from safety inspections. Finally, he covers Hyundai's adjustments to their Assurance Program in response to looming auto tariffs. All that an more on today's episode!00:00 Manufacturers Seek Tariff Transition Period03:51 Missouri Vehicle Inspection Debate08:15 SEMA Registration Opens Next Week
When we don't feel well, we can take our temperature or go for a checkup. When our car is not performing right, we can check different gauges and look at various fluids and things. But is it possible for a dealer to perform checks on his/her equipment business to determine if they've got any operational problems? This month's guest, Troy Ottmer, has been diagnosing and treating operational issues at equipment dealerships for about 20 years, and his overall industry experience is twice that long. He's an expert worth talking to when it comes to helping dealers identify potential areas for improvement. When you speak with Troy, two things become apparent: (1) He's all about staying customer-centric – they should feel like you're always putting their best interest first. (2) He is also about simplicity. Processes don't have to be complicated to be effective. Dealers need the occasional check-up – tune in to see what that looks like and what you should be looking for! Connect with Troy: Ottmer Consulting LinkedIn Connect with IEDA: Visit IEDA Group Website IEDA Events Produced By: Social Chameleon
AI voice agents are already on the front lines — answering calls, switching languages, and gathering insights from every interaction. But automation alone won't deliver great customer experiences (CX). The key is doing it right. In this episode of Doing CX Right, Stacy Sherman and Richard Lin, CEO of Anyreach, explore how to deploy voice AI with transparency, personalize at scale, and prepare for a future where AI isn't just assisting humans — it's talking to other AI. Because the real ROI isn't in automation alone — it's in how you design the experience. Smart choices turn AI from a cost-saver into a brand-builder Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
summary In this episode, Denise Thompson and John DiJulius discuss the importance of creating a zero-risk environment in customer service. They share personal experiences and examples from companies like Warby Parker and Amazon, emphasizing the need for businesses to anticipate service failures and empower employees to resolve issues effectively. The conversation also covers strategies for training staff, handling customer complaints, and the significance of service recovery in building customer loyalty. takeaways Zero risk means making it easy for customers to do business. Companies can screw up but must make it right. Anticipating where service failures occur is crucial. Empowering employees leads to better customer satisfaction. Training should focus on common service failure points. Listening to customers is key to resolving complaints. Service recovery can enhance customer loyalty. Celebrating employee successes in customer service is important. Feedback from customers should be documented and analyzed. Understanding customer needs goes beyond their literal questions. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Customer Service Excellence 02:15Understanding Zero Risk Companies 05:51Identifying Common Service Failures 12:21Empowering Employees for Customer Satisfaction 16:03Implementing Effective Recovery Strategies 21:44Learning from Customer Feedback and Complaints Links: 2025 Livestream Workshops, Zero Risk Register now! https://thedijuliusgroup.com/livestream-2025/ Presentation Skills Workshop https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/presentation-skills/ Sign up for our Weekly E-Service Newsletter: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/event-form/newsletter/ The DiJulius Group https://thedijuliusgroup.com Customer Experience Executive Academy https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Employee Experience Executive Academy https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/exea/ Our new best-selling book, The Employee Experience Revolution https://thedijuliusgroup.com/product/the-employee-experience-revolution-pre-sale/ Schedule a call to learn more about The DiJulius Group Consulting and Training tdg.click/claudia Follow and Review: We'd love for you to subscribe and follow us if you haven't yet! John DiJulius is considered "The Authority" on customer experience. His keynote presentations have motivated and inspired audiences from Entrepreneurs Organization, YPO, Nestle and Marriott to Chick-Fil-A and many more. His real life stories are lessons long remembered by attendees. Learn more about John and how to book him for your next event at: https://johndijulius.com/ The DiJulius Group provides Customer Service content, education, consulting, and training, to ensure our clients become the brand their customers and employees cannot live without. If you want happy employees, happy customers and happy shareholders, connect with us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedijuliusgroup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-dijulius-group/
Today on The Career Flipper, host Jenny Dempsey is chatting with Michael Mattson, whose career journey is a perfect example of how small, intentional shifts can lead to massive transformations. Michael started out as a mail carrier, delivering letters door to door—and yes, getting to pet all the dogs along the way! But beyond the friendly pups, he saw firsthand the importance of both customer and employee experience, which set him on a path of discovery and career growth.With a high-empathy mindset, Michael made small leaps that took him from the frontlines of the postal service into a corporate customer experience role, and eventually across the country to become the Manager of Customer Experience for a global organization. He now also serves on advisory boards for multiple CX organizations, helping shape the future of the field.In this episode, we dive into:The power of mentorship and why you shouldn't be afraid to lean on your networkWhy employee experience matters just as much as customer experienceThe importance of finding the right workplace culture for long-term happinessHow small, calculated risks can open unexpected doorsThe delicate balance between career ambitions and personal passions—and why Michael chose to keep photography as a creative outlet rather than a jobHow embracing vulnerability at work can strengthen professional relationshipsMichael's story is a reminder that career changes don't have to happen all at once—sometimes, it's the little shifts that add up to something big.Connect with Michael
Is customer experience (CX) the NEW marketing? Or has it always been? Marketing gets people in the door. Customer experience decides if they stay. Every ad, every touchpoint, every promise—it's all CX. So why do so many companies still treat them as separate? In this episode of Doing CX Right, Stacy Sherman and Nicole Donnelly challenge this outdated mindset. They discuss why great marketing fails without great customer experience, how AI is reshaping market research, and why data alone isn't enough. Plus, hear how one brand drove real growth by putting experience first—and how you can apply the same strategies to your business. Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
Right About Now with Ryan AlfordJoin media personality and marketing expert Ryan Alford as he dives into dynamic conversations with top entrepreneurs, marketers, and influencers. "Right About Now" brings you actionable insights on business, marketing, and personal branding, helping you stay ahead in today's fast-paced digital world. Whether it's exploring how character and charisma can make millions or unveiling the strategies behind viral success, Ryan delivers a fresh perspective with every episode. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their business game and unlock their full potential.Resources:Right About Now NewsletterFree Podcast Monetization CourseJoin The NetworkFollow Us On InstagramSubscribe To Our Youtube ChannelVibe Science MediaSUMMARYIn this special episode, industry experts share key strategies for business success, focusing on category design, product development, company culture, and competitive advantage. Listeners will gain actionable insights into building strong brands, simplifying communication, and raising capital for new ventures.TAKEAWAYSImportance of category design in business successThe "magic triangle" concept: company design, product design, and category designClarity and honesty in communication for effective marketingUnderstanding customer problems and positioning products as solutionsThe significance of building a strong brand for long-term successEmotional connections in marketing and their impact on purchasing decisionsStrategies for capital raising and understanding investor typesThe balance between profitability and revenue growthThe role of social media in modern marketing and personal brandingThe necessity of planning and execution in achieving business goals If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, join Ryan's newsletter https://ryanalford.com/newsletter/ to get Ferrari level advice daily for FREE. Learn how to build a 7 figure business from your personal brand by signing up for a FREE introduction to personal branding https://ryanalford.com/personalbranding. Learn more by visiting our website at www.ryanisright.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@RightAboutNowwithRyanAlford.
What exactly makes Nordstrom's customer service truly legendary? Join Stacy Sherman and retail expert Robert Spector as they reveal the simple, repeatable tactics behind Nordstrom's success. You'll learn how they turn employees into brand ambassadors, build lasting customer relationships, and seamlessly blend digital with in-store experiences. Discover the specific strategies that set them apart, from personalizing service at scale to using AI without losing the human touch. Plus, gain actionable insights on measuring CX effectively to win customer trust, drive loyalty, and boost sales. This episode is a true masterclass in running a business the Nordstrom way. If you're serious about Doing CX Right, this is a must-listen! Learn more at Access our FREE Customer Experience Audit Tool: Grow as a CX Professional with our numerous Book time with Stacy through this
In this episode of the Customer Service Revolution podcast, John DiJulius and Denise Thompson explore the critical aspects of customer experience, emphasizing the importance of value over price, the role of personalization, and the need for businesses to create a culture of service excellence. They discuss various case studies, including airlines and Starbucks, to illustrate how customer service can make or break a brand. The conversation highlights the significance of making customers feel important and the impact of training and culture on employee performance. Takeaways Elective medical services prioritize patient experience due to competition on value. Competing on price can lead to poor customer outcomes, especially in critical services. Spirit Airlines poor customer service practices. Southwest Airlines maintains a strong service culture despite industry challenges. Starbucks has faced challenges in maintaining its customer experience focus post-pandemic. Speed of service should not compromise the quality of customer interactions. Creating a culture of service excellence can dramatically improve customer experience. Every customer interaction is an opportunity to seize the moment and enhance experience. Personalization in communication is key to customer satisfaction. Listening with your eyes and making customers feel important is essential for service excellence. Follow John on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedijuliusgroup/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-dijulius-group/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dijuliusgroup Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnrobertdijulius/ Subscribe to The DiJulius Group blog: tdg.click/eservice
In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Janelle Jarman, founder of Wells Home Maintenance, shares her inspiring journey from starting with $50K to achieving $2.8M revenue and leading a team of 39. Specializing in home and aged care services, Janelle highlights the power of communication and customer satisfaction in driving growth. She discusses her challenges in managing staff and scaling operations sustainably. Tune in to learn about her innovative marketing strategies and how she created a business that empowers employees and delights clients. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Janelle Jarman, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing people. She emphasizes that dealing with staff-related challenges, such as hiring the right individuals and meeting client expectations as the business scales, has been one of the most demanding aspects of her journey. What's your favourite business book that has helped you the most? Janelle Jarman's favorite business book is Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. She appreciates its lessons on accountability, leadership, and taking full responsibility, which have greatly influenced her approach to managing and growing her business. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Janelle Jarman recommends using Audible for professional development, as it allows her to listen to books and learn on the go. She values utilizing downtime, such as driving or walking, to invest in continuous learning and growth. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Janelle Jarman advises focusing on foundational elements like proper HR systems and safety setups. She emphasizes the importance of starting with the right insurance and resources to create a strong and reliable business structure. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Janelle Jarman's advice to herself on day one of starting out in business would be: "Don't worry about what people think of you. Just do it and follow your gut, because your gut is right." She also wishes she had started her journey 10 years earlier. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Communication is the key to any relationship, whether with clients or team members – Janelle Jarman Strong foundations in HR and safety are the backbone of a growing business – Janelle Jarman Success is watching your team grow in confidence and self-worth – Janelle Jarman
Are you measuring the right metrics, or are you stuck chasing short-term wins that don't translate into lasting customer relationships? Stacy Sherman sits down with Neil Hoyne, Google's Chief Strategist and author of Converted, to discuss why businesses fail to truly understand their customers—and how to fix it. This episode breaks down practical ways to identify high-value customers, shift from transactional thinking to long-term loyalty, and use data to strengthen relationships, not just track clicks. If your business is chasing quick conversions instead of long-term growth, it's time for a shift. Prioritizing strong customer relationships is the key to sustainable success and elevated results. Learn more: .
Most companies react to complaints after the damage is done. The best ones don't just fix issues—they predict and prevent them. In this episode, Stacy Sherman and Sid Banerjee, Medallia's Chief Strategy Officer, explore how AI-driven predictive customer experience helps businesses detect early warning signs, resolve issues before they escalate, and improve CX without waiting for complaints. Learn why traditional metrics fall short, how AI reveals hidden risks, and why automation is reshaping business success. Stop fixing. Start predicting. Because great experiences aren't reactive—they're anticipated. Learn more at Want to dive deeper into the future of CX? Join Stacy Sherman at Medallia Experience '25 to gain cutting-edge CX strategies and connect with industry leaders. Learn more
Today on our show, we're pulling up at the junction of customer experience and automotive. To drive this conversation forward, we're joined by Christina Schehl, an Executive Vice President and Head of Germany at frog, part of Capgemini Invent. Christina brings her experience leading global CX transformation programs with top automotive brands as well as insights from her recently published thought leadership in the space. Join us as we explore innovative strategies to revolutionize customer journeys across the automotive industry. Brought to you by frog, a global creative consultancy. frog is part of Capgemini Invent. (https://www.frog.co) Find episode transcripts and relevant info (https://www.frog.co/designmind/design-mind-frogcast-ep-51-the-cx-auto-race-is-on)Read the Capgemini Research Institute report ‘Joining the race: Automotive's drive to catch up with customer experience,' co-authored by Christina Schehl. (https://www.capgemini.com/insights/research-library/customer-experience-in-automotive-2024/)Download the new frog report 'Chief Challenges 07: Your Consumer Responsibility' (https://fro.gd/3JSdvOK)
Is your brand truly delivering personalized experiences, or just offering customization? Many companies make this promise, but few do it right. In this episode of Doing CX Right, host Stacy Sherman and Ben Weiss, founder of an AI-powered footwear company, explore how AI-driven innovation is redefining customer experience, accelerating time to market, and strengthening brand loyalty. Discover how real-time feedback leads to better products and what it takes to balance personalization with scalability. Gain practical insights on AI's role in product design—and how to apply these strategies for real business impact. Learn more:
Send us a textTraditional contact center metrics like Average Handle Time and Customer Satisfaction scores have served the industry well for decades. But as AI transforms how we serve customers, through virtual agents, agent assistance tools, auto-quality assurance, and intelligent summarization, yesterday's KPIs are no longer enough.In this groundbreaking episode, we explore the new measurement framework required for AI-powered contact centers. We'll dissect traditional metrics, introduce essential new KPIs for measuring AI effectiveness, and provide a practical roadmap for evolving your measurement approach.Whether you're just beginning your AI journey or already operating a sophisticated digital-first contact center, this episode delivers actionable insights on:Virtual agent performance metrics beyond simple containmentMeasuring effective human-AI collaborationTracking the complete customer journey across AI and human touchpointsCalculating the true ROI of your AI investmentsJoin me as we redefine what success looks like in the age of AI-powered customer experience. Discover exceptional, AI-driven contact center outsourcing with Expivia. Visit expiviausa.com or message me in Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow Tom: @tlaird_expiviaJoin our Facebook Call Center Community: www.facebook.com/callcentergeekConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlairdexpivia/Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@callcenter_geekLinkedin Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9041993/Watch us: Advice from a Call Center Geek Youtube Channel
Are you losing customers without knowing why? Many businesses assume they understand their customers, yet retention rates tell a different story. In this episode of Doing CX Right, Stacy Sherman and Tzachi Ben-Sasson, reveal the real reasons customers leave—and how to prevent it. Learn why traditional CX metrics like NPS can be misleading, how to connect Voice of Customer (VoC) insights to revenue growth, and proven strategies that genuinely drive customer loyalty. Don't wait until it's too late—start focusing on what works to build stronger relationships and achieve lasting success the right way. Learn more at
Welcome to the 69th episode of Ecommerce Toolbox: Expert Perspectives! This time, host Kailin Noivo sits down with David Cost, Chief Digital Officer at Rainbow Shops, for an in-depth discussion on how omnichannel strategies drive business growth. From leveraging ship-to-store programs to optimizing mobile app engagement, David discusses actionable strategies to help businesses navigate the evolving landscape of retail. Learn how to balance digital innovation with traditional retail fundamentals for sustainable success.
In today's episode of The Daily Windup, we talks to Joshua Atkinson about the importance of project management education and certification. He explains that having industry certifications such as a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can make a veteran more employable when transitioning to civilian life. Additionally, learning about project management can make anyone a better teammate or employee because every project is focused on satisfying customers and improving profitability. He also explains the differences between PMP, Agile, Scrum, and Lean Six Sigma certifications and how they are all different aspects of project management. We discuss how Lean Six Sigma was the foundation of Toyota's organizational culture and how it applies to project management. Overall, this episode emphasizes the value of project management education and its applicability to many different industries and roles. Want to learn more? Tune in right now.