Podcasts about empowering employees

Jaeden and Conor explore the skepticism Gen Z holds towards AI and the mindset shifts necessary for organizations. They discuss strategies for fostering AI adoption at work and how leadership can empower employees to utilize AI tools effectively.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pv82zltzD2YGet the top 80+ AI Models for $8.99 at AI Box: https://aibox.aiConor's AI Course: https://www.ai-mindset.ai/coursesJaeden's AI Business Community: https://www.skool.com/aihustleChapters00:00 Gen Z's Skepticism Towards AI03:02 The Role of Education in AI Adoption06:16 Overcoming Organizational Resistance to AI09:49 Empowering Employees with AI Tools See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most leaders were promoted because they had answers. But the higher you rise, the more dangerous that habit can become.When every problem runs through you, your team gets slower. When every answer comes from you, your people stop thinking as deeply. And when your identity becomes being the helpful problem-solver, you can quietly become the bottleneck.In this episode of The Good Leadership Podcast, Charles Good sits down with Michael Bungay Stanier, bestselling author of The Coaching Habit, to explore how leaders can stop giving advice too quickly and start building stronger, more independent teams through better coaching questions.Michael shares insights from the 10th anniversary edition of The Coaching Habit, including why being coach-like is not about becoming a full-time coach, why the Advice Monster is so hard to tame, and how seven simple questions can transform everyday leadership conversations.In this conversation, you'll learn:How to use coaching questions in five-minute conversations, not just formal coaching sessionsWhy “And what else?” may be one of the most powerful leadership questions ever createdHow to move from surface-level problem solving to real development by asking, “What's the real challenge here for you?”Why the Advice Monster shows up even in smart, well-intentioned leadersHow coaching becomes even more important in an AI age, where fast answers are everywhere but human presence, listening, and encouragement still matter mostThis episode is for any leader, manager, coach, or HR/L&D professional who wants to build ownership, reduce dependency, and help people think better for themselves.Listen now to learn how to stop rescuing, stay curious longer, and start coaching better.Learn more about Michael Bungay Stanier: [https://www.mbs.works/about/]Michael's book: The Coaching Habit 10th anniversary edition [https://a.co/d/0dgG1ww7]Chapters00:00 The Seven Essential Questions of Coaching04:17 Navigating Challenges in Conversations05:58 Understanding the 'What Do You Want?' Question08:58 The Importance of Asking 'What Else?'10:28 Avoiding the Rescuer Role in Leadership15:10 Strategic Decision-Making: Saying No17:27 The Paradox of Confident Humility17:48 Building Coaching Habits Effectively22:31 Redirecting Conversations Back to the Individual24:01 Empowering Employees to Ask Questions25:16 The Role of Illustrations in Learning29:29 The Future of the Coaching Habit Podcast32:31 Key Insights and TakeawaysSubscribe to The Good Leadership Podcast: [⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠] | [⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠] | [⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠]LinkedIn: ⁠⁠linkedin.com/in/charlesagood⁠⁠Substack Channel (Outlearn to Outperform): ⁠⁠charlesgood.substack.com⁠⁠LinkedIn Newsletter (The Outlearn Advantage): [Subscribe]

"What if you train them and they leave?" It's the fear that quietly keeps most healthcare leaders from investing in their people. Matt Staub — CEO of Your Health — wants you to sit with the question his mentor once asked in return: What if you don't train them, and they stay? In this episode, Matt joins Jamie Preston for a conversation about why workforce education isn't a perk at Your Health — it's the culture. From nationally accredited apprenticeships, to a training pipeline built out of a licensing crisis, to the real people behind the success stories, this is a blueprint for leaders who want to grow something that lasts. Key topics covered: The lumberjack story: why sharpening your axe beats swinging harder every time How a shortage of licensed administrators became the catalyst for Your Health's training engine The shift from "education happens on your own time" to "this is how we behave" Real success stories — Olivia, Kristin, Taylor, McKinsey, Rebecca — and what they share Matt's three challenges for anyone ready to grow: show up, find your who, take your shot If you've ever wondered whether developing your people is worth the cost, this episode will change the math. Press play — then look around, and ask yourself who's looking at you.

In this episode of Talent Development Hot Seat, host Andy Storch speaks with Maura Lemon, known as the “Talent Whisperer,” who leads Learning and Development at FDH Aero and serves as president of ATD Los Angeles. With a background that includes Disney and executive recruiting, Maura shares her unique journey into talent development and how she built her personal brand.She introduces her RAD Talent framework—Resilient, Adaptable, and Driven—and explains how organizations can recruit, develop, and retain strong talent. Maura also discusses the importance of creating a supportive learning culture, empowering employees to take ownership of their careers, leveraging internal talent, and preparing for the growing influence of AI. She highlights why psychological safety and effective leadership are key to helping both people and organizations succeed.I hope you enjoy it! As always you can learn more and connect with me on my website (andystorch.com) or LinkedIn. And you can find my books - Own Your Career Own Your Life and Own Your Brand, Own Your Career - on Amazon.Connect with Maura Lemon: LinkedInMentioned in this episode:Thanks for listeningThanks again for listening. You can find more information about me and everything I do on my website: andystorch.com

https://jo.my/eygbkzEmpowering Employees to Build a Safety-First MindsetStart Safe by Empowering EmployeesA strong safety-first mindset does not start with policies alone. It starts with people. In any facility, employees need to know that their voices matter, their actions matter, and their decisions can prevent someone from getting hurt.This week's focus is on empowering employees. That means giving people the confidence and support to speak up, stop unsafe work, and spot hazards before they turn into incidents. A solid Safety Culture grows faster when everyone understands that safety is part of the job. Every shift. Every task. Every time.Why Employee Empowerment Matters in Warehouse SafetyWhen employees feel empowered, they pay closer attention. They report issues sooner. They step in before small problems become big ones. That kind of mindset helps protect people, equipment, and daily operations.Here are a few tips to assist you with empowering employees:1. Give every employee stop-work authority.If something looks unsafe, work should stop. Period. Employees should know they never need permission to pause a task that could cause harm. That is not overreacting. That is a safety rule.2. Recognize safe choices in real time.When someone reports a hazard or raises a concern, acknowledge it. A quick thank-you, a shoutout in a meeting, or simple recognition can go a long way. People repeat what gets noticed.3. Teach hazard recognition as a daily skill.Training should help employees independently identify blocked exits, damaged racks, spills, poor lifting habits, and forklift risks. The goal is not to wait for a supervisor to catch everything. The goal is for everyone to see hazards and act on them.4. Keep safety suggestion channels open.Some employees will speak up in a meeting. Others won't. Give them more than one way to share concerns. Use safety boards, check-ins, forms, or quick conversations on the floor. Then follow up. If people share concerns and hear nothing back, they stop sharing.5. Reinforce that safety is never optional.Production matters. Deadlines matter. But safety is non-negotiable. If employees feel rushed to cut corners, the message gets muddy fast. Clear expectations help keep the whole facility aligned.As always, these are potential tips. Please be sure to follow the rules and regulations of your specific facility.Keep the Safety-First Mindset StrongEmpowering employees is one of the clearest signs of a healthy Safety Culture. People need to know they are trusted to make safe decisions. They also need to know those decisions will be supported.That kind of environment does not happen by accident. It is built through steady training, honest communication, and daily reinforcement. Keep the message simple. Speak up. Watch out for each other. Stop unsafe work. That is how safer habits become part of the culture.Thank you for being part of another episode of Warehouse Safety Tips.Until we meet next time - have a great week, and STAY SAFE!#Safety #SafetyCulture #StaySafe #SafetyFirst #SafetyTips #StayAlert #EmployeeEmpowerment #HazardRecognition #StopWorkAuthority #PPE #SafetyAwareness #SafetyTraining #IndustrialSafety

In this episode of The Health Literacy 2.0 Podcast, host Seth Serxner welcomes Dr. Archelle Georgiou – a physician, acclaimed health journalist, and patient empowerment advocate – to unpack the critical role of health literacy in navigating today's complex healthcare ecosystem.With an impressive background that spans clinical care, health insurance leadership, media, and education, Archelle Georgiou is dedicated to equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to speak up for their health. As a longtime on-air health expert for ABC's Minneapolis affiliate and host of her own podcast, "Speak Up for Your Health," she channels decades of experience into demystifying insurance, advocating true patient-centered care, and simplifying the medical decision-making process for everyone.Seth and Archelle dive into:☑️ Empowering the Patient Voice: True health outcomes are achieved when clinical expertise and patient self-expertise intersect – and individuals are taught how to actively advocate for themselves.☑️ Demystifying Health Insurance: Understanding the nuts and bolts – premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, copays, and coinsurance – is essential for making smart healthcare decisions.☑️ Practical, Real-World Examples: Sometimes, paying cash can be less expensive than using insurance. Knowing how to ask the right questions at the pharmacy or clinic can lead to better financial and health outcomes.☑️ Choosing the Right Plan: The most expensive health insurance option isn't always the best; it's about understanding your personal health risks and financial situation.☑️ HSAs and High Deductible Plans: Health savings accounts offer tax advantages, but only work well when individuals have the means and knowledge to use them effectively.☑️ Addressing the Skills Gap: We've built tools to help people manage their health, but little investment has gone into actually teaching people how to use them—a critical gap in health literacy.☑️ Laying Responsibility: Employers and insurance companies must do more than just promote wellness; they need to educate about insurance mechanics, appeals, and navigating denials.☑️ The Power of Self-Reflection: Defining your values, priorities, and preferences allows for more personalized medical decisions—patients are experts in their own lives and should articulate what matters most.☑️ Digital Health Tools: Large language models like ChatGPT can help patients formulate questions, aggregate information, and prepare for provider visits—if used wisely.☑️ Speaking Up as a Skill: Empowerment isn't intuitive; it can and should be learned and practiced, with support from all sectors of the health system.Dr. Georgiou ultimately underscores: You're the authority on your own life and health. Take time to reflect, ask questions, and don't be afraid to speak up—whether in the doctor's office or when choosing your health plan.Learn About EdLogicsWant to see how EdLogics' gamified platform can boost health literacy, drive engagement in health and wellness programs, and help people live happier, healthier lives?Visit the EdLogics website: www.edlogics.com.

Anyone can hold a title. The leaders people actually follow — the ones people go to the wall for — earn something that no org chart can give them. In this second and final part of Jamie conversation with Matt Whitehead, Chief Ancillary Officer at Your Health, the discussion moves from the mechanics of leadership into its soul. What does it actually take to make someone trust you? How do you build other leaders without fearing they'll surpass you? And when the blame starts flying, what does a healthy culture do instead? In this episode: The hospice house story — what it means when your leader takes off their dress shirt and slings furniture alongside you in the South Carolina heat Why you should never want to be the smartest person in the room — and what it signals when a leader does How Matt builds future leaders by putting them in every room, every meeting, and every hard conversation — before they need to be there The critical difference between blame (which looks backward) and accountability (which looks forward) What Matt wants people to say about him when it's all over — and why treating the janitor the same as the CEO isn't cliché, it's the whole thing This is the episode for leaders who are willing to ask themselves the harder question: not "am I good at this?" — but "who am I becoming?" www.YourHealth.Org

Fran Katsoudas, Cisco's EVP and Chief People, Policy & Purpose Officer, discusses her 29-year Cisco journey and shares insights on AI's workplace impact.

Comment on the Show by Sending Mark a Text Message.Have you ever felt the gut-wrenching anxiety of being fired or laid off? The uncertainty can be overwhelming, but what if you could turn that fear into an opportunity? In this enlightening episode of the Employee Survival Guide®, Mark Carey dives deep into the critical world of severance negotiations, equipping you with the knowledge you need to navigate this challenging terrain with confidence. Understanding severance agreements is crucial, especially when they're governed by ERISA, which can provide essential legal protections and benefits that many employees overlook. Mark breaks down the severance negotiation process, shedding light on key terms such as payment structures, release of claims, confidentiality clauses, and non-disparagement agreements that can significantly impact your future. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing your leverage during negotiations—after all, severance pay is often a powerful bargaining chip in exchange for signing a release. Are you aware of the implications of arbitration clauses? Mark discusses these in detail, reminding listeners that taking the time to thoroughly consider any severance agreement before signing is not just wise; it's essential. Throughout the episode, Mark encourages employees to push back against unfavorable terms and to seek legal counsel when necessary. You have the right to advocate for yourself and negotiate your severance agreement effectively. This episode serves as a vital resource for anyone facing the daunting prospect of job loss, providing actionable insights into employee rights and the intricacies of employment law. Whether you're dealing with workplace discrimination, navigating a hostile work environment, or simply trying to understand your rights in the face of termination, this episode of the Employee Survival Guide® is packed with valuable information. Join us as we empower you to take control of your career and equip yourself with the skills needed to survive and thrive in the ever-evolving world of work. Don't let fear dictate your future—listen now and discover how to turn severance negotiations into a powerful tool for your career survival. Remember, knowledge is your best ally in the fight for your employment rights!  If you enjoyed this episode of the Employee Survival Guide please like us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We would really appreciate if you could leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Leaving a review will inform other listeners you found the content on this podcast is important in the area of employment law in the United States. For more information, please contact our employment attorneys at Carey & Associates, P.C. at 203-255-4150, www.capclaw.com.Disclaimer: For educational use only, not intended to be legal advice.

Comment on the Show by Sending Mark a Text Message.Are you one of the 32% of American workers who have experienced workplace bullying? In this eye-opening episode of Employee Survival Guide®, Mark Carey dives deep into the disturbing rise of workplace bullying, a crisis that is often overlooked yet profoundly impacts employee rights and workplace culture. With a staggering increase in reports of bullying, particularly among marginalized groups such as African-American and LGBTQ workers, the need for change has never been more urgent. Carey expertly critiques the current legal framework that inadequately protects victims of workplace bullying, revealing how existing laws only shield individuals in specific protected classes. This glaring loophole allows countless forms of discrimination and bullying to go unpunished, leaving employees vulnerable in hostile work environments. As he discusses the legislative efforts underway, including the Healthy Workplace Bill, listeners will gain valuable insights into the fight for employee rights and the urgent need for legal reform. Throughout this episode, Carey passionately argues for the removal of the protected class requirement in harassment laws, advocating for universal protections against abusive behavior in the workplace. All workers, regardless of their identity or background, deserve a safe working environment free from discrimination and retaliation. He encourages listeners to document their experiences with workplace bullies and seek legal help if they find themselves in this distressing situation, emphasizing that the responsibility lies within the legal system, not with the victims. Join us as we explore the critical issues surrounding workplace bullying, discrimination, and employee empowerment. Whether you're navigating employment law issues, dealing with a toxic workplace, or simply seeking guidance on how to survive and thrive in your career, this episode of Employee Survival Guide® is packed with essential information and practical tips. From understanding your rights to negotiating severance packages and addressing workplace harassment, we provide the resources you need to advocate for yourself and your colleagues. Don't miss this chance to become informed and empowered in your work life. Tune in now and take the first step towards creating a healthier, more equitable workplace for all. Remember, it's not just about surviving your job; it's about thriving in a work culture that values respect, dignity, and fair treatment for every employee.  If you enjoyed this episode of the Employee Survival Guide please like us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. We would really appreciate if you could leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Leaving a review will inform other listeners you found the content on this podcast is important in the area of employment law in the United States. For more information, please contact our employment attorneys at Carey & Associates, P.C. at 203-255-4150, www.capclaw.com.Disclaimer: For educational use only, not intended to be legal advice.

Episode Summary In this episode of the Work at Home Rockstar Podcast, Tim Melanson chats with David Feinman, Co-Founder and CEO of Viral Ideas, about building a business from humble beginnings and scaling it through persistence, leadership, and smart hiring. David shares how he started with just $200 and a single client, the hard lessons learned through near-collapse moments, and what it really takes to grow a team-driven company without becoming the bottleneck. This conversation digs deep into entrepreneurship realities, from finding your first customer to developing strong leadership skills, empowering employees, and using mentorship to unlock the next stage of growth. Who is David Feinman? David Feinman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Viral Ideas, a video editing company that helps brands and agencies scale their video content across social platforms. Over the past decade, David has grown Viral Ideas from a scrappy startup into a company with 45 employees and hundreds of clients, delivering tens of thousands of videos each year. Connect with David Feinman Website: https://www.viralideamarketing.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfeinman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-feinman-7a069255/ Host Contact Details Website: https://workathomerockstar.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/workathomerockstar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workathomerockstar LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timmelanson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WorkAtHomeRockStarPodcast X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/workathomestar Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction to the Work at Home Rockstar Podcast 00:27 — David Feinman's Entrepreneurial Journey 01:12 — The Importance of Starting and Adapting 02:44 — Overcoming Business Bottlenecks 08:56 — The Power of Perseverance 14:42 — Hiring and Building a Team 19:29 — The Role of a CEO 20:37 — Empowering Employees and Leadership Growth 20:55 — The CEO's Role and Responsibilities 21:18 — Overcoming Leadership Challenges 26:37 — The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching 32:54 — Business Growth and Hiring Practices 37:59 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Live Like a Leader, I sit down with organizational development expert Gil Crosby (https://www.crosbyod.com/) to explore timeless principles for change, leadership, and frontline empowerment. Learn why most “programs” fail, how to balance authority with freedom, and how leaders can unlock performance by listening to the people closest to the work.Gil Crosby has been an Organization Development Professional since 1984. He applies the Social Science of Kurt Lewin to help organizations navigate change and improve performance, as the same principles apply in both business and society. He is also a Professor at the Leadership Institute of Seattle, and he has just published his 7th book, Leadership and the Front-Line Workforce, for anyone in an organization. Here's what we get into: Kurt Lewin's social science—and why it still worksGil explains Lewin's core insight: when people who live with the problem talk it through together, design solutions that make sense to them, and test them, change actually sticks. Whether it's improving productivity in a plant or reducing violence in a community, people implement what they help shape. Why “forcing best practices” often failsWe talk about how organizations take something like Lean or the Toyota Production System and try to copy-paste it—usually by forcing compliance. Gil highlights what gets left out: at Toyota, when a worker stops the line, the supervisor's first response is “Thank you.” That level of respect and engagement is the point—and when it's missing, the system becomes just another top-down “program of the month.” A perfect frontline story: the Channel Locks lessonGil tells an incredible example from a manufacturing plant: management tried to reduce theft by making workers check out channel locks (basic tools used constantly), which slowed production every time someone needed one. When we asked the obvious question—what does downtime cost compared to a $15 tool?—The plant manager immediately changed course: “Tomorrow, we're putting channel locks everywhere.”And the best part? Once workers saw leadership was actually listening, they didn't steal them. Trust went up, friction went down, and productivity improved. Empowerment isn't “nice”—it's operationalI share why bad customer service drives me crazy (including what I've seen in Slovakia), and the pattern underneath it: people on the front line aren't empowered to make decisions. If the people closest to the work can't act, everything bottlenecks—and leadership often doesn't even know what's broken. Battlefield leadership and “commander's intent.”We connect this to military lessons: when leaders hoard information and control, people suffer. When teams understand the goal and the intent, they can make smarter decisions in real time. That's true in combat, and it's true in business. Democracy vs. autocracy—at work and in societyGil shares Lewin's conclusion that hit me hard: every generation has to learn how to be effective democratic citizens, because democracy isn't self-sustaining. The same is true inside organizations: if people aren't taught how to think, participate, and take ownership, you'll get passivity… or rebellion. The leadership sweet spot: structure + freedomOne of my favorite parts: Gil breaks leadership down as a balance of structure and freedom.People need clarity, information, accountability, and guidance.They also need autonomy and space to think.Too much control creates compliance-without-commitment. Too little structure turns into leaderless chaos. Meetings, fear, and why delegation is so hardWe talk about why leaders struggle to delegate well: endless meetings, unclear authority structures, and fear—fear of upsetting someone, fear of saying no, fear of authority (often rooted way earlier than work). I share a line I coach leaders to use when they're overloaded: “I'd be happy to do that. I'm maxed out—what would you like me to deprioritize so I can take this on?” Gil's low moment, and a leadership lessonGil opens up about the Great Recession: no safety net, consulting work dried up, and he drove a taxi to survive. His takeaway is powerful: do your best, no matter the role. And don't get cocky when money is flowing, because it can stop.MY BIGGEST TAKEAWAYIf you want performance, stop trying to “roll out” solutions to people. Build solutions with them. The front line sees what leadership can't—and when you treat them like owners instead of obstacles, everything improves: morale, execution, and results. --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

Keywords: business development, entrepreneurship, leadership, tax planning, financial growth, relationship management, service-based businesses, strategic planning, client success, business transformation Summary: In this engaging conversation, Michael Walsh shares his extensive experience in business development, transitioning from tax planning to empowering businesses to grow sustainably. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, delegation, and creating an intelligent ecosystem within organizations. Michael discusses the complexities of managing growing teams and the need for strategic planning to navigate these challenges. He also highlights the significance of finding the right people and fostering a culture that values contributions, ultimately leading to greater success and impact. Takeaways: Michael has run his firm for over 30 years. He transitioned from tax planning to business development. Delegation is key to business growth and efficiency. Combining commerce and economics provides a powerful perspective. Business growth changes management dynamics significantly. Relationships are crucial for business success. The power dynamics in business have shifted to knowledge workers. Creating an intelligent ecosystem is essential for growth. Complexity increases with team size, requiring effective management. Finding the right people is critical for business success. Titles Unlocking Business Growth: Insights from Michael Walsh The Power of Relationships in Business Development Sound bites "You can only save somebody so much tax." "Every business absolutely needs structure." "It's not about the money, it's about freedom." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:59 Transitioning to Business Development 09:13 Starting His Own Business 12:45 The Evolution of Business as It Grows 16:38 Empowering Employees for Success 19:57 Shifting Power Dynamics in the Workplace 24:26 The Complexity of Growing Teams and Relationships 28:49 The Value of Top Talent in Service-Based Industries 30:47 Growing Businesses: Balancing Quality and Demand 33:38 Strategic Planning for Impact and Growth 36:57 Exploring Business Growth in the UK 39:18 Transforming a Small Business 40:44 Understanding Business Growth Challenges 42:33 Identifying Danger Zones in Business 43:27 Framework for Sustainable Business Growth 45:05 Defining the Ideal Client Profile 47:02 The Importance of Freedom in Entrepreneurship 49:22 Building a Powerful Business Ecosystem 52:13 The Power of People in Business 55:03 Engaging with Clients and Resources

In this episode of Founder Talk, Christoff Poppe, founder of Half of Eight and a Vistage Chair who works with CEOs across industries, breaks down why peer groups are becoming a non-negotiable advantage for top leaders today. He's in the room for the hardest conversations CEOs have: succession issues, hiring freezes, layoffs, stalled growth, shifting economies, AI disruption. And he's seen how peers uncover blindspots that no book, consultant, or board meeting ever will.Christoff explains why CEOs need people around them who challenge their assumptions, call out their patterns, and push them to lead with clarity even when the future is uncertain. He shares what he's learned guiding leadership teams, why nearly every strategic issue is actually a people issue, and how the right peer advisory group can prevent costly mistakes before they happen.We dig into the pressures CEOs feel but rarely talk about: decision fatigue, loneliness at the top, managing fear inside organizations, and the struggle to evolve when your company grows faster than you do. Christoff also reveals the three traits that determine whether a CEO thrives or stagnates and how peers accelerate that transformation.You'll learn:✅ Why CEOs need peers who will challenge, not comfort them✅ How peer groups expose blindspots you can't see on your own✅ Why isolation slows down decision-making and increases risk✅ What great leadership actually looks like in uncertain markets✅ How to lead through fear, hesitation, and rapid change✅ Why belonging, clarity, and accountability outperform raw strategy✅ How peer advisory groups help CEOs grow personally AND scale their companiesIf you're a CEO, founder, or executive searching “how do I scale smarter,” “why leadership feels lonely,” or “how to make better decisions in uncertain times,” this episode gives you the perspective you've been missing — the peer advantage every leader needs.Connect with Christoff:Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christoffpoppe/Guest Website: https://www.halfofeight.com/If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: ⁠https://impaxs.com⁠Head to our website to stream every episode on your favorite platform, join the Founder Talk community, and submit questions for future guests–all in one place: https://foundertalkpodcast.com/Timecodes00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:13 Economic Uncertainty and CEO Confidence03:39 Impact of AI on Employment10:33 AI in Video Editing and Business Adaptation18:25 The Role of Vistage in CEO Development27:02 Personal Reflections on Business Growth33:32 Rethinking Business Success Metrics34:17 Legacy and Personal Fulfillment35:22 Generational Differences in Work Values36:35 Balancing Personal and Professional Goals37:29 Empowering Employees for Business Growth38:38 Navigating Business Succession Planning40:46 Pursuing Passion Over Profession51:15 The Rise of the Gig Economy55:55 Investing Beyond Your Business01:00:25 The Meaning Behind 'Half of Eight'

Keywords: business development, entrepreneurship, leadership, tax planning, financial growth, relationship management, service-based businesses, strategic planning, client success, business transformation Summary: In this engaging conversation, Michael Walsh shares his extensive experience in business development, transitioning from tax planning to empowering businesses to grow sustainably. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, delegation, and creating an intelligent ecosystem within organizations. Michael discusses the complexities of managing growing teams and the need for strategic planning to navigate these challenges. He also highlights the significance of finding the right people and fostering a culture that values contributions, ultimately leading to greater success and impact. Takeaways: Michael has run his firm for over 30 years. He transitioned from tax planning to business development. Delegation is key to business growth and efficiency. Combining commerce and economics provides a powerful perspective. Business growth changes management dynamics significantly. Relationships are crucial for business success. The power dynamics in business have shifted to knowledge workers. Creating an intelligent ecosystem is essential for growth. Complexity increases with team size, requiring effective management. Finding the right people is critical for business success. Titles Unlocking Business Growth: Insights from Michael Walsh The Power of Relationships in Business Development Sound bites "You can only save somebody so much tax." "Every business absolutely needs structure." "It's not about the money, it's about freedom." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:59 Transitioning to Business Development 09:13 Starting His Own Business 12:45 The Evolution of Business as It Grows 16:38 Empowering Employees for Success 19:57 Shifting Power Dynamics in the Workplace 24:26 The Complexity of Growing Teams and Relationships 28:49 The Value of Top Talent in Service-Based Industries 30:47 Growing Businesses: Balancing Quality and Demand 33:38 Strategic Planning for Impact and Growth 36:57 Exploring Business Growth in the UK 39:18 Transforming a Small Business 40:44 Understanding Business Growth Challenges 42:33 Identifying Danger Zones in Business 43:27 Framework for Sustainable Business Growth 45:05 Defining the Ideal Client Profile 47:02 The Importance of Freedom in Entrepreneurship 49:22 Building a Powerful Business Ecosystem 52:13 The Power of People in Business 55:03 Engaging with Clients and Resources  

AB sits down with Fran Katsoudas, Cisco EVP and Chief People, Policy, and Purpose Officer, to explore her 29-year career journey-from starting in the TAC Center to leading Cisco's people and purpose initiatives. Discover Fran's insights on AI's transformative impact on the workplace and how Cisco empowers employees in the AI era. She also shares her role as Chair of the Global Citizen Festival and how the event drives positive global change through technology and community engagement.

The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 414 HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak DESCRIPTION In this conversation, Peter Boulden and Craig discuss the importance of creating a strategic and autonomous team within an organization. They explore various leadership strategies, the significance of believing in team members, and the role of technology in problem-solving. The discussion emphasizes the need for resourcefulness, effective meeting structures, and the transformation of guilt into gratitude as leaders step back from day-to-day operations. Ultimately, they highlight the importance of scaling operations to better serve communities and reduce burnout among leaders. TAKEAWAYS Creating an autonomous team is essential for growth. Leaders must resist the temptation to solve every problem. Believing in your team is the first step to empowerment. Technology can be leveraged for efficient problem-solving. Resourcefulness is a key trait of effective leaders. Meetings should focus on identifying, discussing, and solving problems. Transforming guilt into gratitude enhances leadership effectiveness. Scaling operations can lead to greater community impact. Effective leadership involves stepping back to allow others to thrive. Decision fatigue can be mitigated by empowering teams. CHAPTERS 00:00 Creating a Strategic and Autonomous Team 03:54 The Importance of Leadership in Team Development 06:41 Empowering Employees to Think Strategically 09:45 Leveraging Technology for Problem Solving 12:34 Fostering Resourcefulness in Teams 15:42 Implementing Effective Meeting Structures 20:12 Effective Meeting Strategies for Leadership 25:08 Creating an Autonomous Team 30:32 Overcoming Leadership Guilt 35:38 The Importance of Strategic Thinking REFERENCES Bulletproof Summit Bulletproof Mastermind  

Emily Thompson, Marketing Manager at CoSchedule, joins the podcast to share practical strategies for building smarter, more consistent social media content. She explains how marketers can use content pillars, batching, and realistic posting goals to stay organised and authentic, and explores the differences between B2B and B2C strategies—where creativity and trust are key to engagement and long-term success. Emily also highlights how CoSchedule's AI-driven workflows help teams streamline planning, automate repetitive tasks, and maintain a consistent publishing cadence across channels—all within a single, easy-to-manage platform.   About CoSchedule CoSchedule is the marketing industry's leading provider of content calendar, content optimization, and marketing education products. Its dynamic family of agile marketing management products serve more than 50,000 marketers worldwide, helping them organize their work, deliver projects on time, and prove marketing team value. Collectively, CoSchedule products empower nearly 100,000 marketers to complete more high-quality work in less time. As recognized with accolades from Inc. 5000, Gartner's Magic Quadrant, and G2Crowd, CoSchedule is one of the most valued companies its customers recommend. To learn more about CoSchedule, visit https://coschedule.com   About Emily Thompson Emily Thompson recently joined CoSchedule as Marketing Manager, after two decades in B2B and B2C marketing content strategy. When people don't know what that means, she describes herself as the one who helps businesses answer the questions, "What needs to be said and how do we say it?" For her, there's nothing more exciting than seeing marketing messaging land with precision and impact. Except maybe 49er football.   Time Stamps 00:00:18 - Meet Emily Thompson from CoSchedule 00:02:31 - Overview of CoSchedule's Product 00:06:26 - AI Integration at CoSchedule 00:08:07 - B2B vs. B2C Marketing Perspectives 00:12:04 - Common Mistakes in Social Media Marketing 00:14:00 - Empowering Employees to Post on Social Media 00:16:48 - Measuring Success in Social Media 00:25:16 - Best Marketing Advice Received 00:28:03 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information   Quotes "The number one thing I say about AI is it's only as smart as the person who's talking to it." Emily Thompson, Marketing Manager at CoSchedule. "CoSchedule just does it all in one. So it's a great tool reduction software and really affordable option for marketers as budgets are shrinking and we need to work smarter and faster." Emily Thompson, Marketing Manager at CoSchedule. "At the end of the day, you're creating trust and building relationships with your audience, whether you are B2B or B2C." Emily Thompson, Marketing Manager at CoSchedule.   Follow Emily: Emily Thompson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-thompson-68468084/ CoSchedule website: https://coschedule.com/ CoSchedule on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coschedule/   Follow Mike: Mike Maynard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemaynard/ Napier website: https://www.napierb2b.com/ Napier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/napier-partnership-limited/   If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions about the latest in Marketing B2B Tech and connect with us on social media to stay updated on upcoming episodes. We'd also appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Want more? Check out Napier's other podcast - The Marketing Automation Moment: https://podcasts.apple.com/ua/podcast/the-marketing-automation-moment-podcast/id1659211547

Keywords: entrepreneurship, education, mentorship, customer service, business lessons, faith, science, COVID-19, compassion, organization, time management, organization, business planning, marketing strategies, partnerships, customer relationships, employee empowerment, pricing strategies, mentorship Summary: In this engaging conversation, Mitch Beinhaker and Bryan Wetzel explore a wide range of topics, from Bryan's unique career journey in the fields of photography, production, and entrepreneurship, to his insights on the education system and the importance of mentorship. They discuss the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of compassion in customer service, and the value of organization through lists. Bryan shares his experiences and lessons learned, emphasizing the need for understanding and support in both business and personal interactions. In this conversation, Mitch Beinhaker and Bryan Wetzel discuss various aspects of running a successful business, emphasizing the importance of effective time management, organization, and planning. They explore the necessity of having a solid business plan, the balance between passion and practicality in business decisions, and the significance of marketing strategies. The discussion also covers the dynamics of partnerships, customer relationships, employee empowerment, and the importance of valuing one's business and setting appropriate pricing strategies. Finally, they highlight the role of mentorship in guiding business development and success. Takeaways Mitch emphasizes the importance of supporting the show. Bryan shares his journey from Georgia to New York and back. He discusses his experience with 3D technology and its challenges. Bryan highlights the alarming issues in the education system. He talks about his books and the insights gained from interviews. Bryan reflects on the importance of mentorship in business. He shares lessons learned from customer service experiences. Bryan discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his businesses. He emphasizes the need for compassion in customer interactions. Bryan advocates for the use of lists to stay organized. Using technology can save significant time in scheduling. Organization reduces anxiety and increases efficiency. A solid business plan is essential for success. Passion for a business should not cloud judgment. Marketing is crucial for attracting customers. Understanding partnership dynamics is key to success. Customer service can make or break a business. Empowering employees leads to better outcomes. Pricing strategies must reflect the value of the service. Mentorship can provide valuable guidance in business.  Titles From 3D Technology to Entrepreneurship: Bryan's Journey Navigating the Education System: Insights from Bryan Wetzel Sound Bites "People can be complicated." "You got to use the system." "You need a manager." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:57 Journey into Production and Entrepreneurship 06:02 Exploring Education and Writing Books 08:55 The Importance of Mentorship 12:08 Customer Relations and Business Ethics 14:59 Navigating Challenges in Business 17:55 Compassion in Customer Service 24:26 The Importance of Mentorship in Business 26:52 Overcoming Fear and Asking for Help 28:05 The Role of Organization in Business Success 31:49 The Power of Lists and Planning 38:48 The Necessity of a Business Plan 41:45 Balancing Passion and Pragmatism in Business 42:57 Breaking Up with Your Business 44:45 Marketing Strategies for Survival 45:54 The Importance of Partnerships 47:58 Navigating Business Relationships 50:36 Customer Service and Reputation Management 52:40 Empowering Employees and Avoiding Burnout 54:28 Valuing Your Business and Pricing Strategies 58:35 The Role of Mentorship in Business Success  

In this episode of the InPowered Life Podcast, Rudi Riekstins sits down with Tim Thomas, founder and COO of Biz 360, to discuss how companies can revolutionize their healthcare benefits using tax-efficient, technology-driven solutions. Tim shares how Biz 360's innovative model helps organizations save thousands while improving employee well-being, retention, and satisfaction. From telehealth integration to mental health access and preventive care, this episode offers practical insights for every business leader who wants to make a lasting impact on their people.

In this episode of the InPowered Life Podcast, Rudi Riekstins sits down with Tim Thomas, founder and COO of Biz 360, to discuss how companies can revolutionize their healthcare benefits using tax-efficient, technology-driven solutions. Tim shares how Biz 360’s innovative model helps organizations save thousands while improving employee well-being, retention, and satisfaction. From telehealth integration to mental health access and preventive care, this episode offers practical insights for every business leader who wants to make a lasting impact on their people.

In this episode, host Debra Caldow explains why hiring people with additional needs is not only a socially responsible choice but also a smart business decision. She discusses how inclusive hiring provides companies access to talented employees but can also boost employee morale and enhance customer loyalty. Debra also talks about why the focus should be on removing barriers rather than reducing expectations, ensuring that all employees can contribute meaningfully.

Marcy Segal of MSA Interiors joins the episode to discuss the significance of diverse revenue streams and her journey in the AEC industry. She provides an overview of MSA Interiors, highlighting their employee focus, future plans, and new training programs. Marcy shares insights on value engineering, client collaboration, and leveraging in-house capabilities. Reflecting on lessons from the 2008 financial crisis, she emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse projects and community engagement in design. The conversation explores resilience, team input, and the role of caregiving experience in leadership. Marcy also discusses the benefits of entrepreneur groups and EO, concluding with advice on seeking and acting on guidance.

Is trust dead at work? Maybe it is. Do you trust the folks you work with? Maybe not. Bestselling author, workplace culture expert and filmmaker Minda Harts says it doesn't have to be. In this episode, she joins Rob, to explore the real reasons trust breaks down in organizations—and what leaders can do to rebuild it. From generational differences to communication gaps, Minda shares practical insights from her own life and her new book, “Talk to Me Nice, The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace.” She reveals how these “7 Trust Languages” can transform your teams, our leadership and our work cultures. Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, this is a must-listen if you want to create a workplace where people feel heard, respected, and valued or if you want to ensure you are seen and valued in your career.Feel free to follow and engage with MINDA here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindaharts/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindaharts/Website: https://www.mindaharts.com/We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.¡Cheers y gracias!,Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Trust in the Workplace07:55 Building Trust Through Communication13:29 The Role of Generational Differences in Trust21:31 Understanding Trust Languages25:59 Implementing Trust Languages for Better Relationships34:04 The Impact of Leadership on Workplace Culture36:28 Innovative Approaches to Building Trust38:57 Navigating Societal Extremes and Workplace Dynamics41:36 The Crossroads of Progress and Regression47:34 Minda's Creative Journey: From Writer to Filmmaker57:42 Empowering Employees to Challenge the Status Quo

In this episode, host Alex Partin and guests Serena Morones, David Harkins, and Kyle Wolf each bring their unique perspectives on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and their critical role in succession planning for privately held businesses.  The conversation explores how ESOPs offer a compelling alternative to traditional exit strategies.  The panel brings together perspectives from business valuation experts and those with firsthand experience in ESOP-owned firms, offering practical insights for business owners considering this path. Key Takeaways: ESOPs as a Succession Tool: ESOPs provide a way for business owners to transition ownership to employees, maintaining company culture and values while offering liquidity and a gradual exit strategy. Business Valuation for ESOPs: The success of an ESOP partly depends on accurate, third-party business valuation, which determines fair market value for the transaction and ensures sustainability for both sellers and employee owners. Transparency and Engagement Drive Success: Companies that openly communicate ESOP benefits and valuation processes to employees foster a sense of ownership, improve retention, and create a more engaged workplace culture. Guests:   David Harkins, CPA/ABV/CFF, CFA, Mercer Capital Serena Morones, CPA/ABV, Morones Analytics Kyle Wolf, CPA/ABV, Stern Brothers Business Valuation Advisors Host:  Alex Partin, CPA/ABV, Mueller & Partin, PS Please share your thoughts about the episode - click here to leave us a review   Want to get involved with future FVS conferences, committees, task forces, or the standing ovation program? Send a message to infoFVS@aicpa-cima.com RESOURCES FOR FURTHER EXPLORATION If you're using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, please visit our podcast platform to access the show notes with direct links.  AICPA Forensic & Valuation Services Conference, Oct 27-29, Aurora, CO, attend virtually for 1,2,or 3 days  Business Valuation School - Dec 1-5, Live online NEW RESOURCE Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services - early-career guidance, built for you AICPA Employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) resource center Journal of Accountancy articles : Employee ownership and taxes:  Why firms are choosing ESOPs What to know when you client is considering employee ownership   Exclusive content available with AICPA FVS Section membership: Click here to join this active community of your FVS peers. You will get 16 credits of complimentary CPE and access to rich technical content Valuations performed for employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and FAQs  What every valuation analyst should know about employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs)  The FVS Valuation Podcast archives From Analysis to Testimony: Key Skills for a Career in Forensic and Valuation Services The Business Valuation Profession Enhancing Professional Growth through AICPA FVS Section Resources and Participation LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOLLOWING AICPA CREDENTIALS: Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) – Visit the home page and check out the ABV infographic Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) – Visit the home page and check out the CVFI infographic Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF®) - Visit the home page and check out the CFF infographic This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments are welcomed at podcast@aicpa-cima.com    

"I am a lifelong learner" - Sandi LuckIn this conversation, Carol Schultz speaks with Sandy Luck, founder & CEO of Bully Brew Coffee, ND Coffee Roastery, and Board Room Coffee & Taphouse. They discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by women in male-dominated industries, particularly in the coffee business. Sandy shares her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of mentorship, and the dynamics of co-founder relationships. They explore customer acquisition strategies, the significance of company culture, and the financial aspects of running a business. Sandy emphasizes the need for independent coffee shops and her vision for growth while addressing the challenges of employee retention and workplace evolution. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gender Dynamics in Business 03:04 Sandy Luck's Entrepreneurial Journey 05:59 Navigating Co-Founder Relationships 08:58 Customer Acquisition Strategies 11:55 Women in the Coffee Industry 14:48 Mentorship and Empowerment 17:49 Future Growth and Business Philosophy 19:22 The Cookie Cutter Model and Licensing Opportunities 20:27 Ambitious Growth Plans for Bully Brew Coffee 21:23 Community Engagement and Ownership in Small Towns 22:42 Empowering Employees and Building Future Owners 23:13 Creating a Welcoming Customer Experience 24:00 Revenue Targets and Financial Challenges 26:13 Bottlenecks to Growth and Risk Management 29:14 The Reality of Entrepreneurship and Work-Life Balance 31:14 Company Culture and Leadership Development 33:37 Evolution of the Workplace and Leadership Skills Connect With Host Carol SchultzFind more information about our host Carol Schultz and her company at Vertical Elevation, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Want to be our next guest expert? Email cat.gloria@verticalelevation.com with your information. And of course, click "follow" to stay up-to-date on new episodes and leave an honest review/rating letting us know what you thought!

In this powerful episode, I sit down with seasoned entrepreneur, CEO, and author Rob Gallaher to discuss the importance of self-leadership, the mechanics of implementing a sustainable profit-sharing model, and what it takes to create a culture of shared success.We explore how Rob transitioned from micromanaging every detail to empowering leaders at every level of his businesses. He shares the exact frameworks that helped his team members start thinking—and acting—like owners, along with the hard lessons he's learned along the way.This episode is filled with practical insights for founders, managers, and anyone interested in profit-sharing or building a culture of shared success.“If you want your team to act like owners, give them a reason to care whether the business wins or loses.”“[With this model] I have seen monthly profits triple. I just don't know another way to make that happen as quickly. If there is, let me know!”—Rob Gallaher is an entrepreneur, CEO, and author with over a decade of experience building and leading successful businesses. Recognizing the power of aligning employee interests with company performance, Rob has become a passionate advocate for and expert in implementing effective profit-sharing strategies. Through years of practical application and refinement, he has developed a successful model that fosters a collaborative, motivated, and productive workplace. His book, "Profit Sharing: The Power of Shared Success," provides a comprehensive guide for business leaders looking to leverage this powerful tool to enhance company culture, boost productivity, and drive significant growth.To learn more about Rob and his course on profit sharing, visit profitx.co.

Chapters00:00 Introduction to The X-Files Podcast00:44 Building a Team in Coffee Roasting02:23 The Importance of Vision and Values06:25 Cash Flow and Team Growth08:28 Hiring Employees: Mindset and Responsibilities10:26 Empowering Employees and Allowing Failure12:09 Defining Roles and Growth Opportunities13:57 Sales vs. Roasting: Who to Hire First?15:20 Finding the Right Salesperson21:34 Structuring Your Organization23:14 Needs vs. Wants in Hiring30:38 Inverted Hierarchy in Team Structure35:13 Encouraging Employee Growth and Loyalty  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

In this week's episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan shares valuable insights from Inner Circle members who have successfully purchased businesses. The episode considers the transformative power of a single acquisition, featuring examples such as Nick's printing business expansion and Jas's recent ventures. Jonathan stresses the importance of validating the business model to ensure sustainable growth. Lessons include the importance of empowering employees, maintaining quality management, and the strategic considerations of business consolidation and rebranding. It's an episode for aspiring business buyers looking to fast-track their success while minimising risks. Key moments 01:05 Inner Circle Success Stories 01:44 The Power of One Acquisition 03:35 Jas's Transformative Acquisition Journey 06:25 Validating the Business Model 15:57 The Importance of Training and Empowering Employees 20:26 Effective Day-to-Day Management 25:57 Consolidation vs. Independence in Acquisitions   ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here's how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Get registered for the ASTA Expo 2025 at the Raleigh Convention Center: https://geni.us/ASTA2025 Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2025Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityMake sure you mention: CTISUMMER to get FREE data migration!If you're ready to make a real change in your shop's success, join Shop Marketing Pros' Plan With the Pros workshop this October to connect with them and other shop owners. You'll leave with your entire year for 2026 planned out. Click here to register: https://geni.us/PlanWithTheProsShop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into one sleek, digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas is joined by Eric Jorn of Kaizen CPA and Advisors, who also serves as the Chicagoland chapter leader for the Midwest Auto Care Alliance. Eric shares his unique journey from service advisor at a Toyota dealer to automotive accounting specialist, highlighting the value of having an industry-specific CPA. Together, they discuss the importance of proper financial structures for auto shops, including setting up the correct chart of accounts and understanding operational costs.00:00 "Importance of Business Coaches"05:31 Guiding Small Business Accounting Setup08:34 Learn Accounting Basics Before Outsourcing11:43 Tax Auto-Categorization Issues15:36 Auto Repair Costs Need Increase18:44 Human-Centric Business Value Importance19:48 Maximizing Business Value Class23:03 Empowering Employees for Industry Change27:11 Empowering Ethical Business Leadership32:08 Ego, Coaching, and Change33:23 "Solving Meaningful Problems"39:19 Smart Pricing for Profitability41:17 Conflicting Financial Strategy Approaches46:05 Strategies to Minimize Payroll Taxes48:02 "Rethinking Work Compensation Paradigms"50:27 Forward-Thinking Accountant Necessity54:17 Lack of Financial Oversight Warning

How often do big, meaningful shifts inside a company actually start small? And more importantly, how do you avoid squashing them before they have a chance to grow?Agility requires more than vision—it requires giving your team the power to act on that vision.Today we're going to talk about how a global company like Belkin empowered its employees to lead a sustainability transformation from within.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Steve Malony, CEO of Belkin. About Steven Malony Steven Malony is the CEO of Belkin International, a role he has excelled in since 2021, following nearly 20 years with the company. Malony began his career at Belkin as a sales representative for Apple resellers in the U.S., where his commitment to understanding customer needs and delivering value helped him rise through the ranks. His deep focus on relationships with distributors, partners, and end users, combined with a relentless drive to innovate, has shaped Belkin's global success and aligned with the company's core values of customer-first service.Before becoming CEO, Steven held various leadership roles in sales and management, where he was responsible for driving strategic direction, performance, and international operations. He demonstrated exceptional resilience and strategic foresight, particularly during challenging times such as the global pandemic. Under his leadership, Belkin successfully navigated the separation of Linksys, integrated the Phyn brand, and maintained strong financial performance. In addition to his role at Belkin, Malony provides strategic guidance to the FIT team, overseeing the production of Apple products like Beats Audio.Since becoming CEO, Malony has overseen significant growth at Belkin, with revenue, gross profit, and operating profit all experiencing substantial increases. His ability to leverage the company's design, manufacturing, and sales capabilities, especially through FIT, has positioned Belkin for continued success. A champion of corporate culture, he has fostered a sense of community within the organization, empowering teams and launching voluntary employee groups called VIBEs to further enhance Belkin's workplace environment. Steven Malony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-malony-67786b/ Resources Belkin: https://www.belkin.com https://www.belkin.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brandsDon't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150" Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How often do big, meaningful shifts inside a company actually start small? And more importantly, how do you avoid squashing them before they have a chance to grow? Agility requires more than vision—it requires giving your team the power to act on that vision. Today we're going to talk about how a global company like Belkin empowered its employees to lead a sustainability transformation from within. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Steve Malony, CEO of Belkin. About Steven Malony Steven Malony is the CEO of Belkin International, a role he has excelled in since 2021, following nearly 20 years with the company. Malony began his career at Belkin as a sales representative for Apple resellers in the U.S., where his commitment to understanding customer needs and delivering value helped him rise through the ranks. His deep focus on relationships with distributors, partners, and end users, combined with a relentless drive to innovate, has shaped Belkin's global success and aligned with the company's core values of customer-first service. Before becoming CEO, Steven held various leadership roles in sales and management, where he was responsible for driving strategic direction, performance, and international operations. He demonstrated exceptional resilience and strategic foresight, particularly during challenging times such as the global pandemic. Under his leadership, Belkin successfully navigated the separation of Linksys, integrated the Phyn brand, and maintained strong financial performance. In addition to his role at Belkin, Malony provides strategic guidance to the FIT team, overseeing the production of Apple products like Beats Audio. Since becoming CEO, Malony has overseen significant growth at Belkin, with revenue, gross profit, and operating profit all experiencing substantial increases. His ability to leverage the company's design, manufacturing, and sales capabilities, especially through FIT, has positioned Belkin for continued success. A champion of corporate culture, he has fostered a sense of community within the organization, empowering teams and launching voluntary employee groups called VIBEs to further enhance Belkin's workplace environment. Steven Malony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-malony-67786b/ Resources Belkin: https://www.belkin.com https://www.belkin.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brandsDon't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150" Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

In this episode, John shares how one book—Unreasonable Hospitality—reshaped how he and the team think about service. From handwritten notes to surprise welcome boxes and even personally delivered cookies, it's all about making people feel seen. He dives into why a little extra effort in human connection still matters, even in a world racing toward automation. You'll also hear how companies like Disney create “magic moments” to outweigh the “tragic” ones—and how you can apply the same mindset to your own work and life. 00:15 The Book Study: Unreasonable Hospitality 00:37 Personal Experience with Poor Service 02:32 The Future of the Service Industry 03:13 Balancing Technology and Personal Touch 04:14 The Value of Strategic Planning 05:41 Creating Memorable Client Experiences 06:38 Examples of Exceptional Hospitality 08:00 Empowering Employees to Create Magic Moments 11:43 The Importance of Human Interaction

In this episode: Empowering Employees, Navigating Corporate Politics, Building Resilience, Financial Independence, Understanding Severance Agreements with Dan GoodmanEpisode SummaryAdam speaks with Dan Goodman about the critical importance of empowering employees to advocate for themselves in the workplace. They explore the nuances of navigating corporate politics, the challenges of building resilience, and the path to Financial Independence. Dan shares his insights on understanding severance agreements and how employees can protect their interests against unfair practices.Guest BioDan Goodman is a passionate advocate for employees, helping them navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics and empowering them to stand up against wrongdoing. With a focus on Financial Independence and resilience, Dan has built a successful practice, guiding clients through the intricacies of employment agreements, severance negotiations, and workplace challenges.Resources & Books MentionedTrue Commission AppGuest Contact InformationWebsite: https://www.dangoodmanea.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dangoodmanea/Key TakeawaysUnderstand the importance of advocating for yourself in the workplace.Recognize the signs of being managed out and how to document them effectively.Financial Independence is key to navigating corporate challenges and feeling empowered.It's crucial to know your rights regarding severance agreements and how to negotiate them.Building a strong network can provide support during difficult employment situations.Employees should not hesitate to utilize mental health leave when needed for their well-being.PS: Introducing the…

Being scrappy wasn't just a choice for Gary ‘Vee' Vaynerchuk; it was his only way forward. After years of growing his family's wine business, he was left with nothing of his own. With no money to rent an office or hire employees, Gary leveraged his grit, relationships, and opportunities to launch VaynerMedia. Overcoming the financial, mental, and emotional hurdles of entrepreneurship, he built his company into a multi-million-dollar media empire. In this episode, Gary joins Ilana to reveal the mindset and strategies you need to overcome obstacles and build your own multi-million-dollar business. Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. In this episode, Ilana and Gary will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:40) VaynerMedia's Scrappy Beginnings (06:56) Why Businesses Fail Financially (10:01) Navigating Tough Business Days (17:21) The Risk of Over-Transparency in Leadership (19:44) Dealing with Failure and Public Ridicule (22:10) GaryVee's Dream of Owning the New York Jets (26:06) The Role of DNA and Accountability in Success (28:35) Finding Joy in Entrepreneurship (31:02) How to Build a Personal Brand as an Employee (32:30) Empowering Employees with Honest Feedback (34:27) Embracing Change and Executing Relentlessly Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. He is a prolific angel investor with early investments in companies like Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Venmo, Snapchat, Coinbase, and Uber. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. Connect with Gary: Gary's Website: garyvaynerchuk.com  Gary's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/garyvaynerchuk  Resources Mentioned: Gary's Book, Day Trading Attention: How to Actually Build Brand and Sales in the New Social Media World: https://www.amazon.com/Day-Trading-Attention-Actually-Social/dp/0063317591  GaryVee: From Earning $2 an Hour to Running a $350M Digital Empire: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/garyvee-from-earning-%242-an-hour-to-running-a/id1701718200?i=1000689595539  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Have you ever wished you could clone your best sales rep? Imagine having a team member who never sleeps, never takes vacation, and consistently delivers your perfect pitch to prospects 24/7. Sounds too good to be true, right? The challenge facing most business leaders today isn't just about growing their sales - it's about scaling their team's expertise and maintaining quality customer relationships while expanding their reach. Traditional solutions like hiring more staff or implementing basic chatbots often fall short, leading to inconsistent experiences and missed opportunities. That's why I'm thrilled to introduce today's guest, Natalie de Groot, who's revolutionizing how businesses approach AI-powered customer engagement. As the founder of Authentic AI Marketing and a pioneering AI Marketing Strategist, Natalie has been helping businesses optimize their strategies since 2009. But it was her groundbreaking work with AI-powered brand representatives that really caught my attention. Natalie has worked with countless businesses across the US, Canada, and UK, showing them how to leverage AI to scale their operations while maintaining that crucial human touch. She's not just talking theory - she's actually created and implemented AI-powered representatives that are transforming how businesses engage with their customers. Today, she's here to share her insights and practical strategies that you can implement in your business. The AI Hat Podcast host Mike Allton asked Natalie de Groot about: ✨ 24/7 Brand Consistency - AI representatives ensure your brand message and values are consistently delivered across all customer touchpoints. ✨ Scalable Expertise - Strategic implementation of AI representatives allows businesses to multiply their team's impact without sacrificing quality. ✨ Human-AI Collaboration - Success comes from properly balancing AI capabilities with human oversight and intervention points. Learn more about Natalie de Groot Connect with Natalie de Groot on LinkedIn Resources & Brands mentioned in this episode Authentic AI Marketing Chris Carr AI Bootcamp Redefining Brand Strategy: AI Tools for Businesses of All Sizes with Ruheene Jaura AI Work Buddy AI Primer: A Comprehensive Guide Explore past episodes of the The AI Hat Podcast podcast CHAPTERS: 00:00 Empowering Employees with AI 00:59 Introduction to The AI Hat Podcast 02:08 Meet Natalie de Groot: AI Marketing Pioneer 04:12 Natalie's Journey into AI 05:14 The Evolution of Nat GPT 06:47 AI Personas and Their Applications 11:37 Advanced AI Strategies and Use Cases 23:52 Leveraging AI for Brand Building 25:19 Creating an AI Work Buddy 32:32 The Importance of Clean Data 36:53 Training Teams to Work with AI 39:23 Future of AI in Business 41:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts SHOW TRANSCRIPT & NOTES: https://theaihat.com/how-smart-business-leaders-are-creating-ai-sales-reps-that-never-sleep/ Start your AI journey with the AI Marketing Primer. Brought to you by The AI Hat - Get Your AI On. Interesting in sponsoring an episode? Learn more here. AI Training for Business Leaders & Teams: https://theaihat.com/ai-training-for-business/ Powered by Magai - why choose one AI tool when you can have them all? And Descript, the magic wand for podcasters. Produced and Hosted by Mike Allton, AI Consultant & Trainer at The AI Hat, where he's tirelessly helping businesses and marketers get ahead of the AI Revolution and apply advanced technologies to their roles. He's spent over a decade in digital marketing, bringing an unparalleled level of experience and excitement to the fore, whether he's delivering a presentation or leading a workshop. If you're interested in helping business owners with AI in an upcoming episode, reach out to Mike. Powered by the Marketing Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LLMs are reshaping the future of data and AI—and ignoring them might just be career malpractice. Yoni Michael and Kostas Pardalis unpack what's breaking, what's emerging, and why inference is becoming the new heartbeat of the data pipeline.// BioKostas PardalisKostas is an engineer-turned-entrepreneur with a passion for building products and companies in the data space. He's currently the co-founder of Typedef. Before that, he worked closely with the creators of Trino at Starburst Data on some exciting projects. Earlier in his career, he was part of the leadership team at Rudderstack, helping the company grow from zero to a successful Series B in under two years. He also founded Blendo in 2014, one of the first cloud-based ELT solutions.Yoni MichaelYoni is the Co-Founder of typedef, a serverless data platform purpose-built to help teams process unstructured text and run LLM inference pipelines at scale. With a deep background in data infrastructure, Yoni has spent over a decade building systems at the intersection of data and AI — including leading infrastructure at Tecton and engineering teams at Salesforce.Yoni is passionate about rethinking how teams extract insight from massive troves of text, transcripts, and documents — and believes the future of analytics depends on bridging traditional data pipelines with modern AI workflows. At Typedef, he's working to make that future accessible to every team, without the complexity of managing infrastructure.// Related LinksWebsite: https://www.typedef.aihttps://techontherocks.showhttps://www.cpard.xyz~~~~~~~~ ✌️Connect With Us ✌️ ~~~~~~~Catch all episodes, blogs, newsletters, and more: https://go.mlops.community/TYExploreMLOps Swag/Merch: [https://shop.mlops.community/]Connect with Demetrios on LinkedIn: /dpbrinkmConnect with Kostas on LinkedIn: /kostaspardalis/Connect with Yoni on LinkedIn: /yonimichael/Timestamps:[00:00] Breaking Tools, Evolving Data Workloads[06:35] Building Truly Great Data Teams[10:49] Making Data Platforms Actually Useful[18:54] Scaling AI with Native Integration[24:04] Empowering Employees to Build Agents[28:17] Rise of the AI Sherpa[36:09] Real AI Infrastructure Pain Points[38:05] Fixing Gaps Between Data, AI[46:04] Smarter Decisions Through Better Data[50:18] LLMs as Human-Machine Interfaces[53:40] Why Summarization Still Falls Short[01:01:15] Smarter Chunking, Fixing Text Issues[01:09:08] Evaluating AI with Canary Pipelines[01:11:46] Finding Use Cases That Matter[01:17:38] Cutting Costs, Keeping AI Quality[01:25:15] Aligning MLOps to Business Outcomes[01:29:44] Communities Thrive on Cross-Pollination[01:34:56] Evaluation Tools Quietly Consolidating

What makes work meaningful, and how can leaders create that experience for their teams? Kevin is joined by Wes Adams and Tamara Myles, who state that their research shows nearly 50% of an employee's experience of meaning at work is tied to what their leaders do or fail to do. Meaningful work is the upstream factor that drives engagement, productivity, innovation, and the bottom-line results that organizations want. The conversation centers around the Three C's of Meaningful Work: Community – Creating authentic connections and a sense of belonging among team members, even in remote or hybrid work environments. Contribution – Helping employees see the impact of their work and making clear connections between daily tasks and larger organizational goals. Challenge – Supporting team members as they grow, learn, and take on meaningful tasks, balancing stretch assignments with strong support. Listen For 00:00 Intro: Why Meaningful Work Matters 00:45 Welcome to the Remarkable Leadership Podcast 01:35 Sponsor: Flexible Leadership Book 02:30 Guest Introductions: Wes Adams and Tamara Myles 04:01 The Origin of the Book and Their Research 05:35 The Leader's Role in Creating Meaning 06:13 Why Meaning is Crucial for Performance 07:50 Leaders as a Leverage Point for Meaning 08:50 The Three C's of Meaningful Work 09:53 C1: Community – What It Is and Why It Matters 11:12 Building Community in Hybrid and Remote Work 12:12 Inside Scoop Practice for Deeper Connections 13:16 Home Base Teams: Dropbox's Neighborhood Model 16:59 High Purpose vs Low Purpose Team Activities 18:22 Empowering Employees to Build Community 20:06 C2: Contribution – Driving Greater Impact 21:33 Purpose vs Meaning – Understanding the Difference 22:11 Calendly's Mission: Saving Time as Meaning 23:03 Storytelling and Making Work Personal 24:12 Highlighting the Impact of Individual Roles 25:07 C3: Challenge – The Growth-Minded Definition 26:04 Balancing High Challenge with High Support 27:40 Everyday Examples of Meaningful Challenge 28:43 Why All 3 C's Matter – Not Just Contribution 29:32 Immediate Leadership Action: Give Positive Feedback 30:51 Meaning Can Happen in Any Job, Every Day 31:24 Fun Question: What Do You Do for Fun 32:39 What Are You Reading 34:25 Where to Learn More: makeworkmeaningful.com 35:33 Final Thought: Now What Will You Do Wes Adams and Tamara Myles are the authors of Meaningful Work: How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee.  Wes is the CEO of SV Consulting Group. He partners with Fortune 500s and scaling companies to develop high-impact leaders and design operating structures that support high-performing teams. He is also a positive psychology researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, where he studies the leadership practices and organizational structures that help employees thrive. Tamara Myles is an accomplished consultant, author, and international speaker with over two decades of experience helping leaders improve business performance. She is the author of The Secret to Peak Productivity, which introduced her proprietary Peak Productivity Pyramid framework. Tamara's insights have been featured in leading publications such as Forbes, Fast Company, USA Today, and Business Insider. She has worked with clients such as Microsoft, KPMG, MassMutual, and Google. Tamara has a master's degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, where she also serves as an instructor in the master's program and a trainer for the world-renowned Penn Resilience Program. She is a professor in the Master of Science in Leadership program at Boston College, where she integrates cutting-edge research into practical applications for leadership and organizational success. She lives in Concord, Massachusetts.  https://www.makeworkmeaningful.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesadams1/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamaramyles/ https://www.instagram.com/tamaramyles/ This Episode is brought to you by... Flexible Leadership is every leader's guide to greater success in a world of increasing complexity and chaos.  Book Recommendations Meaningful Work: How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee by Wes Adams and Tamara Myles Lessons from Plants by Beronda L. Montgomery Shift: Managing Your Emotions--So They Don't Manage You by Ethan Kross Like this? Thriving at Work with Gabriella Kellerman Wiring the Winning Organization with Gene Kim Mastering the Art of Being All In with Lisa Danels Join Our Community If you want to view our live podcast episodes, hear about new releases, or chat with others who enjoy this podcast join one of our communities below. Join the Facebook Group Join the LinkedIn Group   Leave a Review If you liked this conversation, we'd be thrilled if you'd let others know by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Here's a quick guide for posting a review. Review on Apple: https://remarkablepodcast.com/itunes    Podcast Better! Sign up with Libsyn and get up to 2 months free! Use promo code: RLP  

Empowering Men's Mental Health: A Conversation with Justin GarberIn this episode of the Beacon Way podcast, we are joined by Justin Garber, a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in various settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs. Justin, who specializes in the relationship between psychological stress and the body's response system, shares his personal journey into the field of psychology and the founding of Restorative Psychological Services. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and strategies for engaging men in psychotherapy, as well as the importance of mental health awareness across different generations. Justin also shares insights into managing work-life balance as an entrepreneur and highlights the importance of focusing on core values and mission in business. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on mental health and entrepreneurship.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:44 Justin's Journey into Psychology04:20 Veterans Affairs and Personal Connection06:54 Starting Restorative Psychological Services08:37 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship12:54 Focus on Men's Mental Health17:56 Balancing Work and Personal Life24:47 Empowering Employees and Final ThoughtsBooks referenced in today's podcast: https://www.aileadership.com/bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Who-Not-How-Accelerating-Teamwork-ebook/dp/B0867ZJ151https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280https://www.amazon.com/ONE-Thing-Surprisingly-Extraordinary-Results/dp/1885167776Learn more about Justin and Restorative Psychological Services:https://restorativepsychservices.com/justin-garber-psyd/_____________________________________________________________________Beacon Media + Marketing is an Alaska-based digital marketing agency with a proven track record of success, harnessing the power of data and award-winning creative to deliver outstanding results for our clients. It all starts with data, because data drives results! We are a data-driven agency because we know that in the business world, success is measured by the numbers. We pride ourselves in award-winning work that marries the best of data analytics with stunning creative to deliver the right message, at the right time, to the right demographic. Our power lies in the clicks, leads, engagement, and conversions we produce for our clients!Learn more about us at BeaconMM.com

In this episode of Millennial Mind, I sit down with economist, journalist, and author Grace Blakeley to demystify the economy in a way that makes sense to everyone. We tackle the issues surrounding wealth inequality, the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, and the intricate relationship between political and economic power. Grace shares her insights on creating a more democratic society, the importance of redistributing power, and the social movements that are making a difference. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that reveals the hidden systems shaping your paycheck, rent, and future. 00:00 Introduction to Economic Inequality 01:17 Welcome to Millennial Mind with Grace Blakeley 03:11 Understanding Socialism and Democratic Economy 06:10 The Myth of Deserved Wealth 09:58 Empowering Employees and Redistribution of Power 13:46 The Problem with Wealth and Power Imbalances 17:03 Taxation, Wealth, and Economic Rents 32:52 The Role of Tax Havens and Avoidance 37:48 The Power Dynamics in Politics 38:12 Historical Movements and Community Organising 41:14 The Role of Politicians and Accountability 45:01 Economic Inequality and the Influence of Wealth 01:01:47 The Challenges of Homelessness and Social Support 01:08:31 Empathy and the Human Condition

Empowering Employees to Meet Customer Expectations  This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more:    What is a 'wow moment' in customer interactions?  How can organizations operationalize positive customer feedback?  How can an organization create a workplace culture focused on providing an amazing customer experience?  Why is it important for employees to have clear goals and expectations?  How can employees' personal and professional growth impact the overall customer service experience?  Top Takeaways:    Creating a strong workplace culture is crucial for providing excellent customer service and experience. What is felt by the employees inside a company will be felt outside by the customers. That's why empowering employees and focusing on customer satisfaction should be built into every part of the company's culture.  It is impossible to go above and beyond in every interaction with a customer. However, simple gestures like writing a note or responding to a customer's email quickly can create lasting impressions on customers. These WOW moments may be small, but they can become part of the culture when encouraged consistently throughout the organization.  Eric also shares the five key factors for employee engagement.  Strong relationships: Connection matters. When employees have strong relationships with each other, they're more likely to build great connections with customers.  Clear expectations: When goals and expectations are clearly communicated, they create a consistent customer experience.  The right tools: Employees must be equipped with tools and information to achieve the desired outcome.  Opportunities for growth: How does the organization help employees grow personally and professionally?   Recognition: Recognize and reward excellence.  While many organizations focus on mitigating negative feedback, it's also important to celebrate positive interactions and find a way to operationalize them so that they become a part of the culture.  An important part of addressing customer complaints is understanding the employee's viewpoint before making assumptions or taking corrective actions. This prevents employee frustration and promotes a supportive work environment where they feel valued and heard.    While the phrase "the customer is always right" is well-known, the customer is not always right, but they're always the customer. Let them be wrong with dignity and respect. However, there are customers whom you can fire if they are abusive toward employees.  Did we live up to our promise? This is an important question because we make a commitment to our customers at the beginning of their journey with us. This commitment is the reason why they choose to do business with us instead of our competitors. This promise must be clear to our employees across the organization to ensure we deliver what our customers expect from us.   Plus, Eric D. Stone shares the story of Johnny the Bagger and how his WOW moments can be operationalized into the company culture. Tune in!  Quote:   "Be mindful of how you handle negative feedback. Track those moments, watch for patterns, and bring your team together before small issues become bigger problems."   About:    Eric D. Stone is the author of the award-winning book Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture. Before founding Clear Path Ventures, he had a successful twenty-six-year career at Enterprise Holdings.   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

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Future of Work01:26 The Impact of Family Background on Career03:05 Career Journey and Work-Life Integration05:48 The Shift in Workplace Culture Post-Pandemic10:56 The Importance of Intentional Office Presence14:39 Future of Work Grand Challenge and Reskilling19:15 AI's Role in the Future of Work21:26 Empowering Employees in the Age of AI22:00 Investing in Talent: Measuring Success23:05 Reimagining Workplace Relationships24:45 Creating Open Feedback Loops26:23 Equity as a Profit Driver29:09 Measuring Equity and Employee Engagement30:47 Insights from Writing 'The Win-Win Workplace'32:36 The Concept of Shared Value34:04 Building Community in the Workplace35:26 Who Should Read 'The Win-Win Workplace'?36:54 The Future of Work: Avoiding Old Mistakes37:54 Defining Success Beyond Career Achievements 

Most business owners get delegation wrong because they think hiring someone experienced means they can "hand off the crown" and walk away. In this episode, Chris and Kevin break down the real key to successful delegation: empowering your team with the systems, support, and clarity they need to win.   We share firsthand lessons on: - Why hiring "skilled" people isn't enough - How to build buy-in and ownership - What accountability actually looks like - The mindset shift that took us from chaos to clarity   If you're tired of doing it all yourself or frustrated with underperformance, this episode will give you the insight (and reality check) you need.  

Strolid's Road to Reinvention: How a Contact Center Pioneer Helped Create the vCon Standard “Every time a customer calls, it shouldn't feel like the first time.” — Matt Watson, Strolid At the first-ever vCon Conference in Hyannis, MA, Matt Watson, Vice President of Product Development at Strolid, joined Doug Green of Technology Reseller News to tell a story few expected: how a company built to support car dealers ended up helping create the vCon standard — now poised to revolutionize how we store, analyze, and act on conversational data. “We didn't start by trying to invent something new. We started by solving real problems with real conversations — and vCon was the natural result.” From Leads to Context-Rich Data Strolid supports 165+ automotive dealerships by handling calls, texts, chats, and emails — from casual inquiries to high-stakes sales leads. Every interaction now becomes a vCon, a standardized digital conversation record. That vCon includes: Caller details and timestamps Conversation transcripts Connected metadata (like the car model or promotion that triggered the call) Follow-up actions (like booked test drives) Before vCons, much of this data was scattered — or lost. Now, every call is actionable, searchable, and auditable at scale. For Dealers, It's About Trust and Retention When a customer calls about a $70K pickup truck, consistency matters. vCons ensure that agents are prepared, customers aren't repeating themselves, and dealers can track every touchpoint across the buying journey. Watson says this builds not just sales — but lifetime service value, as happy customers keep returning for service, warranty work, and more. For OEMs, It's Instant Market Feedback Watson explained how auto manufacturers (like Ford) now use vCon data to measure campaign effectiveness in real time. If a customer references a football ad while calling, that detail enters the vCon — giving the brand fast, ground-level feedback on what's working. Empowering Employees, Too VCons don't just enhance CX — they improve EX (employee experience). Strolid's agents now get real-time screen pops with the customer's history before even answering the phone. That means less stress, more success, and happier teams. What Is a vCon, Really? Watson put it simply: “A vCon is like a PDF for conversations.” And just like PDF revolutionized documents, vCons are set to change the way we treat conversations — for everyone from dealerships to global brands. Learn more: strolid.com — for auto dealer services strolid.ai — for companies looking to generate vCons at scale

In this episode, Kyle talks with Luke Thomas of H&L Design Build about how intentional branding and a strong team culture has fueled his company's rapid growth. From his early career in ministry to scaling a successful design-build firm, Luke shares wisdom on leadership, delegation, financial growth, and the power of trust. Whether you're looking to grow your team, strengthen your systems, or spend more time working on the business, this episode is packed with practical insight and real-world encouragement. ----- The Remodelers VIP Club is designed to help you strengthen the 6 Main Systems of your remodeling business in a step-by-step way through our Remodelers Roadmap. You'll have access to a treasure trove of short pre-recorded training to help you immediately address the weak points of your business. Learn more and sign-up here! ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit RemodelersOnTheRise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Every player needs a coach, and every coach needs great players. Our brand is our promise, reflecting who we are. Trust people, even if they haven't proven their trustworthiness yet. We need to learn to delegate to avoid burnout. I was feelings over facts; now I'm facts over feelings. Investing in systems supports great people and desired outcomes. Visuals in proposals need to be next level to meet client expectations. New levels bring new challenges that require adaptation. Building a strong team culture is essential for success. Continuous learning and coaching are vital for growth.  ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:28 Journey into Remodeling Business 05:38 Leadership and Management Insights 08:48 Trusting and Empowering Employees 11:50 Growth and Strategic Vision 14:40 Financial Literacy and Business Growth 20:42 Navigating Financial Challenges in Business Growth 24:01 The Importance of Branding and Marketing 29:42 Building Effective Systems and Team Culture 33:40 Vision for the Future: Franchising and Beyond 38:19 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Welcome back to part three of 'Leading the Revolution' with the legendary Gary Hamel. In this episode of The Innovation Show, Gary and host Aiden dive deep into two key chapters from Gary's books, exploring the principle of learning to be your own seer and the critical distinction between imagination and prediction in innovation. They discuss the importance of psychological safety in fostering creativity within companies and why many organizations fail to imagine the future. Gary shares his insights on developing foresight, the role of contrarianism in innovation, and the necessity of building a foundation of unconventional, differentiated insights for genuine innovation. He also emphasizes the importance of stepping outside the insular corporate environment to seek out underappreciated trends, frustrations customers face, and the deeper, broader questions around societal changes. Packed with practical exercises and real-world examples, this episode offers valuable takeaways for individuals and companies alike aiming to break free from conventional thinking and lead the charge in their industries.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 The Importance of Being Your Own Seer 02:23 Imagination and Foresight in Innovation 06:12 The Role of Discontinuities in Innovation 08:11 The Need for Organizational Foresight 09:42 Building a Foundation of New Insights 18:18 Challenges in Allocating Resources for Innovation 25:15 The Importance of Transcendent Themes 29:15 Understanding Deeper Changes in Society 31:24 Impact of Connectivity on Society 32:19 Customer Frustration and Business Opportunities 33:37 Reinventing Education and Knowledge Consumption 34:42 Identifying and Addressing Industry Dogmas 41:20 Empowering Employees for Innovation 46:41 Distinguishing Form from Function in Business 49:07 Encouraging Radical New Possibilities 55:43 Conclusion and Future Topics

In this episode of the Social Responsibility at Work podcast, Angela Howard and Anthony Sartori (Culture Impact Lab Speaker and Executive Director/Founder at Evolving Minds) discuss the critical importance of mental health in the workplace, especially in the wake of the pandemic. They explore generational differences in attitudes towards mental health, the need for supportive work environments, and the role of autonomy and play in fostering a positive culture. The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by younger generations, the business case for mental health support, and the urgent need for change within the nonprofit sector. Ultimately, they emphasize the interconnectedness of employee wellbeing and organizational success, advocating for a more human-centered approach to work.Connect with Anthony: Anthony Sartori | LinkedInLearn more about Evolving Minds: https://www.evolving-minds.org/Join us at Culture Impact Lab 2025: https://callforculture.com/culture-im...Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Mental Health in the Workplace03:09 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health06:07 - The Need for Supportive Workplaces09:20 - Investing Time for Social Connection12:27 - Empowering Employees for Culture Change15:37 - Breaking Down Barriers to Connection18:43 - Generational Differences in Mental Health Awareness22:02 - The Severance Analogy and Human Experience23:00 - Cultural Shifts in the Workplace24:22 - Mental Health and Workplace Responsibility25:05 - The Business Case for Mental Health27:45 - Employee Experience and Customer Connection30:06 -Measuring Impact in the Workplace32:34 - The Nonprofit Sector's Mental Health Crisis35:30 - Reimagining Nonprofit Models for Sustainability38:40 - Emerging Trends in Nonprofit Wellbeing

Podcast Alert!

Podcast Alert!

Part 2 of our Q&A with Leif Babin! Him, Jason Khalipa and Gabe Yanez are going to dive into Leadership and finding success. Leif is a former Navy Seal, Author of Extreme Ownership with Jocko Willink  and co-founder of Echelon Front. Follow Leif on IG: https://www.instagram.com/leifbabin/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Bringing Out the Best in Under Performers 01:08 - Understanding Underperformers 03:51 - Counseling Techniques for Improvement 05:59 - Empowering Employees with Ownership 12:21 - Finding Echelon Front Resources 13:20 - Conclusion and Outro